Former Indian opener Sunil Gavaskar shared his take on Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli's Test future after India's MCG Test defeat versus Australia, on Monday (Dec 30), in the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT). India lost the fourth and penultimate Test by 184 runs, in pursuit of 340 on Day 5, as Rohit and Kohli's poor run continued.&nbsp;
Both Rohit and Kohli have struggled for runs in the ongoing India-Australia series. While Kohli scored a hundred in the series opener, the right-hander has four single-digit scores and not a single half-century. For Rohit, he has scores of 3, 6, 10, 3 and 9 in the series. Thus, Gavaskar opined on their red-ball future and feels it is the selectors' call whether they want Rohit-Kohli to carry on.
"It actually all depends on the selectors. I'm not a good reader of the crystal ball, because in Indian cricket, nobody can read a crystal ball. That is a fact. But the contributions which were expected have not come. I don't think it's a lower-order problem. It's the top order that has to contribute. So, I mean, the seniors have not really made the contribution that they should have and all that they had to do was to bat out today and live to fight another day in Sydney," Gavaskar said to India Today.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-rohit-sharmas-retirement-rumours-catch-fire-after-langers-body-language-remark-8578916" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">BGT - Rohit's retirement rumours catch fire after Langer&rsquo;s &lsquo;body language&rsquo; remark</a>
Talking about the Boxing Day Test at the MCG, in Melbourne, Rohit-led India opted to bowl first. Riding on Steve Smith's 140, the fifties from debutant Sam Konstas, Marnus Labuschagne, Usman Khawaja and valuable contributions from the lower-order, Australia posted 474. In reply, India were tottering at 221-7 before Nitish Reddy's 114 propelled the visitors to 369.
With a lead of 105, Australia got dismissed for 234 in their second innings, despite being reduced to 91-6 at one stage. Setting a target of 340 on the final day, Australia dismissed India for 155.&nbsp;
Aussie skipper Pat Cummins was adjudged the Player-of-the-Match for a six-wicket match haul and 49 and 41 runs with the bat.
Australia lead the 2024-25 BGT 2-1 with the final Test commencing in Sydney on Jan 3 (Friday).&nbsp;

Cricket, Sports | Border-Gavaskar Trophy: 'Nobody can read a crystal ball,' Sunil Gavaskar shares his take on Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli's Test future

Former Indian opener Sunil Gavaskar shared his take on Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli's Test future after India's MCG Test defeat versus Australia, on Monday (Dec 30), in the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT). India lost the fourth and penultimate Test by 184 runs, in pursuit of 340 on Day 5, as Rohit and Kohli's poor run continued. Both Rohit and Kohli have struggled for runs in the ongoing India-Australia series. While Kohli scored a hundred in the series opener, the right-hander has four single-digit scores and not a single half-century. For Rohit, he has scores of 3, 6, 10, 3 and 9 in the series. Thus, Gavaskar opined on their red-ball future and feels it is the selectors' call whether they want Rohit-Kohli to carry on. "It actually all depends on the selectors. I'm not a good reader of the crystal ball, because in Indian cricket, nobody can read a crystal ball. That is a fact. But the contributions which were expected have not come. I don't think it's a lower-order problem. It's the top order that has to contribute. So, I mean, the seniors have not really made the contribution that they should have and all that they had to do was to bat out today and live to fight another day in Sydney," Gavaskar said to India Today. Also read: BGT - Rohit's retirement rumours catch fire after Langer’s ‘body language’ remark Talking about the Boxing Day Test at the MCG, in Melbourne, Rohit-led India opted to bowl first. Riding on Steve Smith's 140, the fifties from debutant Sam Konstas, Marnus Labuschagne, Usman Khawaja and valuable contributions from the lower-order, Australia posted 474. In reply, India were tottering at 221-7 before Nitish Reddy's 114 propelled the visitors to 369. With a lead of 105, Australia got dismissed for 234 in their second innings, despite being reduced to 91-6 at one stage. Setting a target of 340 on the final day, Australia dismissed India for 155. Aussie skipper Pat Cummins was adjudged the Player-of-the-Match for a six-wicket match haul and 49 and 41 runs with the bat. Australia lead the 2024-25 BGT 2-1 with the final Test commencing in Sydney on Jan 3 (Friday).

BGT: 'Nobody can....', Sunil Gavaskar shares his take on Rohit and Kohli's Test future

Nitish Kumar Reddy broke the internet with his maiden Test hundred at the MCG against Australia. His 105* (at stumps on day three) in the Boxing Day Test made headlines worldwide, with the rookie all-rounder realising his dream in front of his family sitting in the stands. His father, Mutyala Reddy, was in tears watching his son hammer the best bowling quartet, saving India&rsquo;s grace.
However, the best moment came when his father met Sunil Gavaskar on the sidelines.
Emotional over his son&rsquo;s achievement, which even made the man the series is named after (Border-Gavaskar Trophy) super proud, Reddy&rsquo;s father touched Sunil Gavaskar's feet in the most heartwarming moment of the day.
In a video doing rounds on the internet, Reddy&rsquo;s family met Gavaskar, with his father and sister touching Gavaskar&rsquo;s feet while his mother greeted the Indian legend from a distance. Gavaskar reciprocated with similar generosity.
"We know how much he has sacrificed. He has struggled a lot. Because of you, I am tearing up. Because of you, India has got a diamond, Indian cricket has got a diamond," Gavaskar said to Reddy&rsquo;s father during the meetup.
<h3>Watch the Video &ndash;</h3>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m599egvm-iawjy7jr-4m20msig">
Nitish Kumar Reddy&rsquo;s family meet the great Sunil Gavaskar <a href="https://twitter.com/abcsport?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@abcsport</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/hUBOghxM2e">pic.twitter.com/hUBOghxM2e</a>
&mdash; Ben Cameron (@BenCameron23) <a href="https://twitter.com/BenCameron23/status/1873185643112869900?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2024</a></blockquote>
<h2>Reddy&rsquo;s rise and father&rsquo;s sacrifice</h2>
Nitish Reddy made his Test debut during the BGT series opener in Perth and played all four games since. Though he impressed everyone with his temperament and handy knocks in the lead-up to the Boxing Day Test, his 114 at MCG earned him praises from all quarters.&nbsp;
After India got reduced to 191 for six following Pant&rsquo;s dismissal, Reddy entered the scene and made the whole day about himself. He stitched a 100-plus stand for the eighth wicket with Washington Sundar, completing his maiden Test century soon after and carrying the bat.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m599f3dz-wnjh1hyx-remxahve">
Nitish Kumar Reddy&rsquo;s family meet the great Sunil Gavaskar <a href="https://twitter.com/abcsport?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@abcsport</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/hUBOghxM2e">pic.twitter.com/hUBOghxM2e</a>
&mdash; Ben Cameron (@BenCameron23) <a href="https://twitter.com/BenCameron23/status/1873185643112869900?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2024</a></blockquote>
The Indian all-rounder got out on 114 early on day four, with India scoring 369 in their first innings.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, Nitish shed light on how his father&rsquo;s sacrifice led to him standing at the MCG.
"My father left his job for me, and there has been a lot of sacrifice behind my story. One day, I saw him crying because of the financial problems we were facing, and I was like, 'this is not how you can be'. Then I got serious. " I gave my first jersey to him and saw the happiness in his face," Nitish said in a video posted by the BCCI.
(With inputs from agencies)

Emotional over his son’s achievement, which even Gavaskar was super proud of, Reddy’s father touched his feet in the most heartwarming moment of the day.

Nitish Kumar Reddy broke the internet with his maiden Test hundred at the MCG against Australia. His 105* (at stumps on day three) in the Boxing Day Test made headlines worldwide, with the rookie all-rounder realising his dream in front of his family sitting in the stands. His father, Mutyala Reddy, was in tears watching his son hammer the best bowling quartet, saving India’s grace. However, the best moment came when his father met Sunil Gavaskar on the sidelines. Emotional over his son’s achievement, which even made the man the series is named after (Border-Gavaskar Trophy) super proud, Reddy’s father touched Sunil Gavaskar's feet in the most heartwarming moment of the day. In a video doing rounds on the internet, Reddy’s family met Gavaskar, with his father and sister touching Gavaskar’s feet while his mother greeted the Indian legend from a distance. Gavaskar reciprocated with similar generosity. "We know how much he has sacrificed. He has struggled a lot. Because of you, I am tearing up. Because of you, India has got a diamond, Indian cricket has got a diamond," Gavaskar said to Reddy’s father during the meetup. Watch the Video – Nitish Kumar Reddy’s family meet the great Sunil Gavaskar @abcsport #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/hUBOghxM2e — Ben Cameron (@BenCameron23) December 29, 2024 Reddy’s rise and father’s sacrifice Nitish Reddy made his Test debut during the BGT series opener in Perth and played all four games since. Though he impressed everyone with his temperament and handy knocks in the lead-up to the Boxing Day Test, his 114 at MCG earned him praises from all quarters. After India got reduced to 191 for six following Pant’s dismissal, Reddy entered the scene and made the whole day about himself. He stitched a 100-plus stand for the eighth wicket with Washington Sundar, completing his maiden Test century soon after and carrying the bat. Nitish Kumar Reddy’s family meet the great Sunil Gavaskar @abcsport #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/hUBOghxM2e — Ben Cameron (@BenCameron23) December 29, 2024 The Indian all-rounder got out on 114 early on day four, with India scoring 369 in their first innings. Meanwhile, Nitish shed light on how his father’s sacrifice led to him standing at the MCG. "My father left his job for me, and there has been a lot of sacrifice behind my story. One day, I saw him crying because of the financial problems we were facing, and I was like, 'this is not how you can be'. Then I got serious. " I gave my first jersey to him and saw the happiness in his face," Nitish said in a video posted by the BCCI. (With inputs from agencies)

BGT: Nitish Reddy’s father touching Gavaskar’s feet wins internet - WATCH

Melbourne, Australia: Former India skipper Sunil Gavaskar was absolutely livid with the shot Rishabh Pant played and got out on day 3 (Saturday, Dec 28) of the fourth Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) Test at Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Pant tried to play a ramp shot from outside off to leg side which took a leading edge and ballooned towards off side and he was caught out.
<h2>Sunil Gavaskar questions Rishabh Pant's shot selection</h2>
"Stupid, stupid, stupid," was Gavaskar's immediate reaction on commentary. Have a look at the shot below:
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
<a href="https://t.co/yxc8oQ4Iu2">pic.twitter.com/yxc8oQ4Iu2</a>
&mdash; Sunil Gavaskar (@gavaskar_theman) <a href="https://twitter.com/gavaskar_theman/status/1872805545100591257?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2024</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

"You've got two fielders there, and you still go for that, you've missed the previous shot. And look where you've been caught. You've been caught at deep third man. That is throwing away your wicket. Not in the situation that India was. You have to understand the situation as well, you cannot say that that's your natural game. I'm sorry, that is not your natural game. That is a stupid shot. That is letting your team down badly!"
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-nitish-reddy-keeps-india-afloat-in-boxing-day-test-with-maiden-hundred-8572499">BGT: Nitish Reddy keeps India afloat in Boxing Day Test with maiden hundred</a>
The former skipper, however, acknowledged that there was a bit of bad luck but still criticised the shot as irresponsible.
"I think earlier on, when there had been no fielders around, that's when he's attempted these shots, that is understandable because you're taking a very good chance," Gavaskar said on official broadcaster Star Sports during the lunch break. "That [the shot] was supposed to go to the leg side, that went to the off side, it actually tells you maybe [there was] a little bit of bad luck involved, but terrible selection of a shot to play at that particular point with two fielders down at deep square-leg and deep point."
India, however, were rescued by 127 runs partnership for the eighth wicket between Washington Sundar (50) and all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy (105 not out).
India were 358/9 before rain forced an early end of the day. The visitors still trail by 116 runs in the first innings but with rain predicted for next two days - India may have done enough to escape with a draw at the MCG.

Sports Cricket News BGT: Pant tried to play a ramp shot from outside off to leg side which took a leading edge and ballooned towards off side and he was caught out at MCG on Day 3.

Melbourne, Australia: Former India skipper Sunil Gavaskar was absolutely livid with the shot Rishabh Pant played and got out on day 3 (Saturday, Dec 28) of the fourth Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) Test at Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Pant tried to play a ramp shot from outside off to leg side which took a leading edge and ballooned towards off side and he was caught out. Sunil Gavaskar questions Rishabh Pant's shot selection "Stupid, stupid, stupid," was Gavaskar's immediate reaction on commentary. Have a look at the shot below: pic.twitter.com/yxc8oQ4Iu2 — Sunil Gavaskar (@gavaskar_theman) December 28, 2024 "You've got two fielders there, and you still go for that, you've missed the previous shot. And look where you've been caught. You've been caught at deep third man. That is throwing away your wicket. Not in the situation that India was. You have to understand the situation as well, you cannot say that that's your natural game. I'm sorry, that is not your natural game. That is a stupid shot. That is letting your team down badly!" Also Read: BGT: Nitish Reddy keeps India afloat in Boxing Day Test with maiden hundred The former skipper, however, acknowledged that there was a bit of bad luck but still criticised the shot as irresponsible. "I think earlier on, when there had been no fielders around, that's when he's attempted these shots, that is understandable because you're taking a very good chance," Gavaskar said on official broadcaster Star Sports during the lunch break. "That [the shot] was supposed to go to the leg side, that went to the off side, it actually tells you maybe [there was] a little bit of bad luck involved, but terrible selection of a shot to play at that particular point with two fielders down at deep square-leg and deep point." India, however, were rescued by 127 runs partnership for the eighth wicket between Washington Sundar (50) and all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy (105 not out). India were 358/9 before rain forced an early end of the day. The visitors still trail by 116 runs in the first innings but with rain predicted for next two days - India may have done enough to escape with a draw at the MCG.

BGT 2024-25: Gavaskar livid with 'terrible selection' of Rishabh Pant

New Delhi, India 
R Ashwin announced his international retirement soon after the third Test between India and Australia at The Gabba, Brisbane, ended in a draw on Wednesday (Dec 18). After bad light and rain played spoilsport in the Brisbane Test, Ashwin made the headlines for stepping aside from international cricket. He ends with 765 scalps—second-most by an Indian in internationals—and was hailed by many former cricketers for his contribution to Indian cricket. Sunil Gavaskar also lauded 'one heck of a cricketer' Ashwin but was critical of the timing of his call.
<h2>'Similarly, when MS Dhoni retired in 2014-15 series, it leaves you one short'</h2>
Speaking to the broadcasters, Gavaskar said, "He could have said, 'Listen, after the end of the series, I won't be available for selection for India'. What it does is that, similarly, when MS Dhoni retired at the end of the 3rd Test of 2014-15 series, it leaves you one short. The selection committee has picked so many players for a tour with a purpose. If there are any injuries, they can select from the reserve players to have in the team. So, Sydney is somewhere where there is a lot of support on offer for spinners. So India could have played with 2 spinners. You never know. He could have been there for sure. I don't know what the pitch in Melbourne will be like."<iframe allow="private-state-token-redemption;attribution-reporting" aria-label="Advertisement" data-google-container-id="7" data-load-complete="true" frameborder="0" height="1" id="google_ads_iframe_/1007232/IT_Teads_1x1_0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" name="google_ads_iframe_/1007232/IT_Teads_1x1_0" scrolling="no" tabindex="0" title="3rd party ad content" width="1"></iframe>
"Normally, you tend to look at the end of the series. That's it. In the middle, it is not usual.  Maybe Washington Sundar is ahead of him. Rohit said he is flying out tomorrow. So that's the end of Ashwin as an international cricketer. He has been one heck of a cricketer," Gavaskar further opined.
Ashwin only featured in the second Test, in Adelaide, in the ongoing BGT edition. Washington Sundar has been preferred over him in the recent past. Thus, it might have played a part in Ashwin's retirement call.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/youll-always-be-remembered-as-legend-of-indian-cricket-emotional-kohli-lauds-ashwin-after-his-retirement-784896">You'll always be remembered as legend of Indian cricket: Emotional Kohli lauds Ashwin after his retirement</a>
Indian captain Rohit Sharma, however, backed Ashwin's call. In the post-match presser, he said, "I heard R Ashwin’s retirement when I came to Perth. I was not there for the first few days of the Test. This was in his mind since then. There are obviously a lot of things that went behind it. Ashwin, when he is in position, will be able to answer that. He understands the kind of combinations we are thinking. When we came here as well, we were not sure which spinner was going to play. We just wanted to assess and see what kind of conditions we get in front of us. But yeah, when I arrived in Perth, we had a chat and somehow convinced him to stay for the pink-ball Test match. It happened so that he felt, 'If I am not needed right now in the series, then I am better off saying goodbye to the game'."
<iframe allow="private-state-token-redemption;attribution-reporting" aria-label="Advertisement" data-google-container-id="7" data-load-complete="true" frameborder="0" height="1" id="google_ads_iframe_/1007232/IT_Teads_1x1_0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" name="google_ads_iframe_/1007232/IT_Teads_1x1_0" scrolling="no" tabindex="0" title="3rd party ad content" width="1"></iframe>"Keeping Ashwin in mind, if this is what he thinks, we should allow him to think that way. We should all standby his call. That is what I am thinking right now, and that's the same mindset of Gautam Gambhir as well. It's important a player like him who has had great moments with the team is allowed to make such a call," Rohit added.
Ashwin signs off with 537, 156, and 72 wickets in Tests, ODIs, and T20Is respectively. He played 106 Tests, 116 ODIs, and 72 T20Is for India from 2010 to 2024 and was part of the 2011 ODI World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy wins. The 38-year-old ends as India's second-highest wicket-taker in Tests and overall (765).

Former Indian opener Sunil Gavaskar reacted to R Ashwin's sudden international retirement, saying he could've waited to make the big call after the end of the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT).



New Delhi, India R Ashwin announced his international retirement soon after the third Test between India and Australia at The Gabba, Brisbane, ended in a draw on Wednesday (Dec 18). After bad light and rain played spoilsport in the Brisbane Test, Ashwin made the headlines for stepping aside from international cricket. He ends with 765 scalps—second-most by an Indian in internationals—and was hailed by many former cricketers for his contribution to Indian cricket. Sunil Gavaskar also lauded 'one heck of a cricketer' Ashwin but was critical of the timing of his call. 'Similarly, when MS Dhoni retired in 2014-15 series, it leaves you one short' Speaking to the broadcasters, Gavaskar said, "He could have said, 'Listen, after the end of the series, I won't be available for selection for India'. What it does is that, similarly, when MS Dhoni retired at the end of the 3rd Test of 2014-15 series, it leaves you one short. The selection committee has picked so many players for a tour with a purpose. If there are any injuries, they can select from the reserve players to have in the team. So, Sydney is somewhere where there is a lot of support on offer for spinners. So India could have played with 2 spinners. You never know. He could have been there for sure. I don't know what the pitch in Melbourne will be like." "Normally, you tend to look at the end of the series. That's it. In the middle, it is not usual. Maybe Washington Sundar is ahead of him. Rohit said he is flying out tomorrow. So that's the end of Ashwin as an international cricketer. He has been one heck of a cricketer," Gavaskar further opined. Ashwin only featured in the second Test, in Adelaide, in the ongoing BGT edition. Washington Sundar has been preferred over him in the recent past. Thus, it might have played a part in Ashwin's retirement call. Also read: You'll always be remembered as legend of Indian cricket: Emotional Kohli lauds Ashwin after his retirement Indian captain Rohit Sharma, however, backed Ashwin's call. In the post-match presser, he said, "I heard R Ashwin’s retirement when I came to Perth. I was not there for the first few days of the Test. This was in his mind since then. There are obviously a lot of things that went behind it. Ashwin, when he is in position, will be able to answer that. He understands the kind of combinations we are thinking. When we came here as well, we were not sure which spinner was going to play. We just wanted to assess and see what kind of conditions we get in front of us. But yeah, when I arrived in Perth, we had a chat and somehow convinced him to stay for the pink-ball Test match. It happened so that he felt, 'If I am not needed right now in the series, then I am better off saying goodbye to the game'." "Keeping Ashwin in mind, if this is what he thinks, we should allow him to think that way. We should all standby his call. That is what I am thinking right now, and that's the same mindset of Gautam Gambhir as well. It's important a player like him who has had great moments with the team is allowed to make such a call," Rohit added. Ashwin signs off with 537, 156, and 72 wickets in Tests, ODIs, and T20Is respectively. He played 106 Tests, 116 ODIs, and 72 T20Is for India from 2010 to 2024 and was part of the 2011 ODI World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy wins. The 38-year-old ends as India's second-highest wicket-taker in Tests and overall (765).

He could have said, 'I am....': Sunil Gavaskar critical of R Ashwin's sudden international retirement

R Ashwin announced his international retirement soon after the third Test between India and Australia&nbsp;at The Gabba, Brisbane, ended in a draw on Wednesday (Dec 18). After bad light&nbsp;and rain played spoilsport in the Brisbane Test, Ashwin made the headlines for stepping aside from international cricket. He ends with 765 scalps—second-most by an Indian in internationals—and was hailed by many former cricketers for his contribution to Indian cricket. Sunil Gavaskar also lauded 'one heck of a cricketer' Ashwin but was critical of the timing of his call.

<h2>'Similarly, when MS Dhoni retired&nbsp;in 2014-15 series, it leaves you one short'</h2>

Speaking to the broadcasters, Gavaskar said, "He could have said, 'Listen, after the end of the series, I won't be available for selection for India'. What it does is that, similarly, when MS Dhoni retired at the end of the 3rd Test of 2014-15 series, it leaves you one short. The selection committee has picked so many players for a tour with a purpose. If there are any injuries, they can select from the reserve players to have in the team. So, Sydney is somewhere where there is a lot of support on offer for spinners. So India could have played with 2 spinners. You never know. He could have been there for sure. I don't know what the pitch in Melbourne will be like."<iframe allow="private-state-token-redemption;attribution-reporting" aria-label="Advertisement" data-google-container-id="7" data-load-complete="true" frameborder="0" height="1" id="google_ads_iframe_/1007232/IT_Teads_1x1_0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" name="google_ads_iframe_/1007232/IT_Teads_1x1_0" scrolling="no" tabindex="0" title="3rd party ad content" width="1"></iframe>

"Normally, you tend to look at the end of the series. That's it. In the middle, it is not usual.&nbsp; Maybe Washington Sundar is ahead of him. Rohit said he is flying out tomorrow. So that's the end of Ashwin as an international cricketer. He has been one heck of a cricketer," Gavaskar further opined.

Ashwin only featured in the second Test, in Adelaide, in the ongoing BGT edition. Washington Sundar has been preferred over him in the recent past. Thus, it might have played a part in Ashwin's retirement call.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/youll-always-be-remembered-as-legend-of-indian-cricket-emotional-kohli-lauds-ashwin-after-his-retirement-784896">You'll always be remembered as legend of Indian cricket: Emotional Kohli lauds Ashwin after his retirement</a>

Indian captain Rohit Sharma, however, backed Ashwin's call. In the post-match presser, he said, "I heard R Ashwin’s retirement when I came to Perth. I was not there for the first few days of the Test. This was in his mind since then. There are obviously a lot of things that went behind it. Ashwin, when he is in position, will be able to answer that. He understands the kind of combinations we are thinking. When we came here as well, we were not sure which spinner was going to play. We just wanted to assess and see what kind of conditions we get in front of us. But yeah, when I arrived in Perth, we had a chat and somehow convinced him to stay for the pink-ball Test match. It happened so that he felt, 'If I am not needed right now in the series, then I am better off saying goodbye to the game'."

<iframe allow="private-state-token-redemption;attribution-reporting" aria-label="Advertisement" data-google-container-id="7" data-load-complete="true" frameborder="0" height="1" id="google_ads_iframe_/1007232/IT_Teads_1x1_0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" name="google_ads_iframe_/1007232/IT_Teads_1x1_0" scrolling="no" tabindex="0" title="3rd party ad content" width="1"></iframe>"Keeping Ashwin in mind, if this is what he thinks, we should allow him to think that way. We should all standby his call. That is what I am thinking right now, and that's the same mindset of Gautam Gambhir as well. It's important a player like him who has had great moments with the team is allowed to make such a call," Rohit added.

Ashwin signs off with&nbsp;537, 156, and 72 wickets in Tests, ODIs, and T20Is&nbsp;respectively. He played 106 Tests, 116 ODIs, and 72 T20Is for India&nbsp;from 2010 to 2024&nbsp;and was part of the 2011 ODI World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy wins. The 38-year-old ends as India's second-highest wicket-taker in Tests and overall (765).

R Ashwin announced his international retirement soon after the third Test between India and Australia at The Gabba, Brisbane, ended in a draw on Wednesday (Dec 18).

R Ashwin announced his international retirement soon after the third Test between India and Australia at The Gabba, Brisbane, ended in a draw on Wednesday (Dec 18). After bad light and rain played spoilsport in the Brisbane Test, Ashwin made the headlines for stepping aside from international cricket. He ends with 765 scalps—second-most by an Indian in internationals—and was hailed by many former cricketers for his contribution to Indian cricket. Sunil Gavaskar also lauded 'one heck of a cricketer' Ashwin but was critical of the timing of his call. 'Similarly, when MS Dhoni retired in 2014-15 series, it leaves you one short' Speaking to the broadcasters, Gavaskar said, "He could have said, 'Listen, after the end of the series, I won't be available for selection for India'. What it does is that, similarly, when MS Dhoni retired at the end of the 3rd Test of 2014-15 series, it leaves you one short. The selection committee has picked so many players for a tour with a purpose. If there are any injuries, they can select from the reserve players to have in the team. So, Sydney is somewhere where there is a lot of support on offer for spinners. So India could have played with 2 spinners. You never know. He could have been there for sure. I don't know what the pitch in Melbourne will be like." "Normally, you tend to look at the end of the series. That's it. In the middle, it is not usual. Maybe Washington Sundar is ahead of him. Rohit said he is flying out tomorrow. So that's the end of Ashwin as an international cricketer. He has been one heck of a cricketer," Gavaskar further opined. Ashwin only featured in the second Test, in Adelaide, in the ongoing BGT edition. Washington Sundar has been preferred over him in the recent past. Thus, it might have played a part in Ashwin's retirement call. Also read: You'll always be remembered as legend of Indian cricket: Emotional Kohli lauds Ashwin after his retirement Indian captain Rohit Sharma, however, backed Ashwin's call. In the post-match presser, he said, "I heard R Ashwin’s retirement when I came to Perth. I was not there for the first few days of the Test. This was in his mind since then. There are obviously a lot of things that went behind it. Ashwin, when he is in position, will be able to answer that. He understands the kind of combinations we are thinking. When we came here as well, we were not sure which spinner was going to play. We just wanted to assess and see what kind of conditions we get in front of us. But yeah, when I arrived in Perth, we had a chat and somehow convinced him to stay for the pink-ball Test match. It happened so that he felt, 'If I am not needed right now in the series, then I am better off saying goodbye to the game'." "Keeping Ashwin in mind, if this is what he thinks, we should allow him to think that way. We should all standby his call. That is what I am thinking right now, and that's the same mindset of Gautam Gambhir as well. It's important a player like him who has had great moments with the team is allowed to make such a call," Rohit added. Ashwin signs off with 537, 156, and 72 wickets in Tests, ODIs, and T20Is respectively. He played 106 Tests, 116 ODIs, and 72 T20Is for India from 2010 to 2024 and was part of the 2011 ODI World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy wins. The 38-year-old ends as India's second-highest wicket-taker in Tests and overall (765).

Former India skipper Sunil Gavaskar said that he isn't much of a fan of Mohammed Siraj getting all the criticism for second Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) send-off incident with Australia's Travis Head. Gavaskar also said that the pacers find it difficult to keep calm after being hit for runs – referring to the six hit by Head off Siraj before getting out.

"Siraj is getting the stick from all the saints in Australian cricket who, of course, were known for their impeccable behaviour on the field. It may have incensed Australian fans that Siraj’s fiery send-off was directed at Head, who scored a magnificent century and was also the local boy," wrote Gavaskar in his column for the Sydney Morning Herald.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-2024-25-history-of-this-venue-michael-vaughan-not-happy-with-rohit-bowling-first-at-gabba-783975">'History of this venue...,' Michael Vaughan not happy with Rohit bowling first at Gabba</a>

"Head’s explosive batting is a delight to watch, but opposition bowlers are never amused. No wonder Mohammed Siraj, who was flicked nonchalantly for a six the ball before, was pumped up when he knocked over the local hero’s stumps," he added.

Both the players were later found guilty of breaching code of conduct by the ICC and subsequently reprimanded.

Siraj was found in breach of article 2.5 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel which pertains to “using language, actions or gestures which disparage or which could provoke an aggressive reaction from a batter upon dismissal."

Head, on the other hand, was guilty of breaking article 2.13 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel relating to the “abuse of a player, player support personnel, umpire or match referee during an international match.”

Siraj has received a fine of 20 per cent of the match fee and a demerit point too, while Head got away with just a demerit point.&nbsp;

The incident happened on Day 2 of the Test on Saturday (Dec 7) after Siraj clean bowled Head with a yorker in Australia's first innings.

Former India skipper Sunil Gavaskar said that he isn't much of a fan of Mohammed Siraj getting all the criticism for second Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) send-off incident with Australia's Travis Head.

Former India skipper Sunil Gavaskar said that he isn't much of a fan of Mohammed Siraj getting all the criticism for second Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) send-off incident with Australia's Travis Head. Gavaskar also said that the pacers find it difficult to keep calm after being hit for runs – referring to the six hit by Head off Siraj before getting out. "Siraj is getting the stick from all the saints in Australian cricket who, of course, were known for their impeccable behaviour on the field. It may have incensed Australian fans that Siraj’s fiery send-off was directed at Head, who scored a magnificent century and was also the local boy," wrote Gavaskar in his column for the Sydney Morning Herald. Also Read: 'History of this venue...,' Michael Vaughan not happy with Rohit bowling first at Gabba "Head’s explosive batting is a delight to watch, but opposition bowlers are never amused. No wonder Mohammed Siraj, who was flicked nonchalantly for a six the ball before, was pumped up when he knocked over the local hero’s stumps," he added. Both the players were later found guilty of breaching code of conduct by the ICC and subsequently reprimanded. Siraj was found in breach of article 2.5 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel which pertains to “using language, actions or gestures which disparage or which could provoke an aggressive reaction from a batter upon dismissal." Head, on the other hand, was guilty of breaking article 2.13 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel relating to the “abuse of a player, player support personnel, umpire or match referee during an international match.” Siraj has received a fine of 20 per cent of the match fee and a demerit point too, while Head got away with just a demerit point. The incident happened on Day 2 of the Test on Saturday (Dec 7) after Siraj clean bowled Head with a yorker in Australia's first innings.

BGT 2024-25: 'Stick from all the saints...,' Sunil Gavaskar hits out at criticism of Siraj for Head send-off

Former Indian opener-turned-commentator Sunil Gavaskar has backed Virat Kohli to overcome his issues outside the off-stump and score big in the third Test between India and Australia in Brisbane, starting on Dec 14. Kohli started the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) edition with an unbeaten 100 in the second innings of the first Test in Perth. He, however, flopped in the second Test in Adelaide. Kohli has scored a ton at each of Australia's five major Test venues except Brisbane, hence, Gavaskar has backed the star batter to achieve the feat in the third Test.

Talking on Star Sports, Gavaskar said, "If he scores a century in Brisbane, it will be great. It's an incentive as well as you know that you join a club if you score a century in Brisbane, the one to score a century everywhere in Australia. After that, going forward he will play in Melbourne and Sydney, where he has scored centuries. So he can score centuries there as well. It means he can score four centuries in the series."

The Perth Test ton was Kohli's seventh in Australia—most by any visiting batter Down Under (surpassing Sachin Tendulkar). If he scores a hundred in Brisbane, he will join Gavaskar and Alastair Cook&nbsp;in an elite club of visiting batters to have scored a century at each of Australia's five major Test venues.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-mitchell-marsh-reveals-mantra-to-face-best-in-the-world-jasprit-bumrah-ahead-of-brisbane-test-783425">BGT: Mitchell Marsh reveals mantra to face 'best in the world' Jasprit Bumrah ahead of Brisbane Test</a>

Gavaskar further emphasised that a hundred in Brisbane could significantly boost Kohli's confidence, and he could go on a run-scoring spree in the remainder of the ongoing BGT edition.&nbsp;

The former Indian captain added, "Even Bradman never had a series where he scored in every Test match. You are bound to fail in an odd Test. I hope his failure in Adelaide will be offset by strong performances in the remaining three Tests. With the slight issue he’s having outside the off-stump—which every batter experiences at some point—if he plays cautiously to those deliveries, the runs will come."

Rohit Sharma-led India will face Australia in the third Test at The Gabba, Brisbane, starting on Dec 14 (Saturday). The five-match series is currently tied at 1-1.

Former Indian opener-turned-commentator Sunil Gavaskar has backed Virat Kohli to overcome his issues outside the off-stump and score big in the third Test between India and Australia in Brisbane, starting on Dec 14.

Former Indian opener-turned-commentator Sunil Gavaskar has backed Virat Kohli to overcome his issues outside the off-stump and score big in the third Test between India and Australia in Brisbane, starting on Dec 14. Kohli started the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) edition with an unbeaten 100 in the second innings of the first Test in Perth. He, however, flopped in the second Test in Adelaide. Kohli has scored a ton at each of Australia's five major Test venues except Brisbane, hence, Gavaskar has backed the star batter to achieve the feat in the third Test. Talking on Star Sports, Gavaskar said, "If he scores a century in Brisbane, it will be great. It's an incentive as well as you know that you join a club if you score a century in Brisbane, the one to score a century everywhere in Australia. After that, going forward he will play in Melbourne and Sydney, where he has scored centuries. So he can score centuries there as well. It means he can score four centuries in the series." The Perth Test ton was Kohli's seventh in Australia—most by any visiting batter Down Under (surpassing Sachin Tendulkar). If he scores a hundred in Brisbane, he will join Gavaskar and Alastair Cook in an elite club of visiting batters to have scored a century at each of Australia's five major Test venues. Also read: BGT: Mitchell Marsh reveals mantra to face 'best in the world' Jasprit Bumrah ahead of Brisbane Test Gavaskar further emphasised that a hundred in Brisbane could significantly boost Kohli's confidence, and he could go on a run-scoring spree in the remainder of the ongoing BGT edition. The former Indian captain added, "Even Bradman never had a series where he scored in every Test match. You are bound to fail in an odd Test. I hope his failure in Adelaide will be offset by strong performances in the remaining three Tests. With the slight issue he’s having outside the off-stump—which every batter experiences at some point—if he plays cautiously to those deliveries, the runs will come." Rohit Sharma-led India will face Australia in the third Test at The Gabba, Brisbane, starting on Dec 14 (Saturday). The five-match series is currently tied at 1-1.

BGT: Gavaskar backs India's star batter Virat Kohli to hit a ton in Brisbane Test, reveals extra incentive

Cricket greats Sunil Gavaskar and Ricky Ponting shared contrasting views over Rohit Sharma’s demotion in the batting order in the ongoing Pink-Ball Test against Australia in Adelaide. While the former India captain backed&nbsp;Rohit’s call to play at six, arguing there was no need to break Rahul-Jaiswal's stand at the top after what they did in Perth, Ponting disagrees, saying Rohit could end up batting at number six for the rest of his Test career, something, given his age, doesn’t fit well for him and the team.

Rohit missed the BGT opener in Perth for personal reasons, later re-linking with the Indian Team midway into the first Test. With him back in the side as the captain and batter for the second Test, Rohit sacrificed his opening slot for KL Rahul, who enjoyed his marathon partnership (202) with young Jaiswal in the second innings in Perth, laying the foundation for a massive lead, which eventually helped India draw first blood in the series.

In Adelaide, Rahul opened and scored a gritty 37 off 67 balls, second-highest after Nitish Reddy’s 42, while Rohit, batting at six, where he averages the most in Tests outside of the top two, was dismissed cheaply for just three.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-202425-jasprit-bumrah-stuns-steve-smith-yet-again-as-rishabh-pant-clutches-brilliant-catch-watch-782197">BGT 2024/25: Jasprit Bumrah stuns Steve Smith yet again as Rishabh Pant clutches brilliant catch - WATCH</a>

Like how India got folded on 150 in the first innings in Perth, they suffered a similar fate here at the Adelaide Oval, getting all out on 180 inside the first two sessions on day one.

“The previous Test, you have a 200-run partnership between Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal. You don't want to break that, they have that momentum and confidence. Besides, Rohit Sharma hasn't played any serious cricket for more than a month, the last time he played for India was November 3, we are at December 6,” Gavaskar said, as quoted by Hindustan Times.

“Clearly, it was required that he would be able to see what was happening, the pink ball isn't easy to play, India hasn't played a pink-ball test in maybe 2-3 years, so dropping himself down the order was, to me, a correct move,” the former India great added.

<h2>Punter disagrees with Sunny</h2>

Meanwhile, the former Australia captain Ricky Ponting disagreed with Gavaskar, saying regardless of how well Rahul played in Perth, Rohit should have never compromised on his batting position and should have opened instead of demoting himself to number six.

“I actually disagree with what Sunny (Gavaskar) said. I feel he should've come back in the side and open the batting. KL Rahul has been a fringe player around this team for a number of years. Yes, he got his chance and he played in Perth.&nbsp;

“But what it seems to be now is that Rohit Sharma is going to spend the rest of his career down the order Because KL Rahul has played well, Shubman Gill looked good in the first innings, so he looks certain.&nbsp;

“The only spot for Rohit Sharma in the side now is no.6 and that might be where he stays for the rest of his career,” Ponting explained.&nbsp;

Ponting, however, revealed that Rohit's decision to come back and bat at number six knowing his record against Australia Down Under hasn’t been impressive surprised him.&nbsp;

“He is a class player, although his record isn't that good against Australia. I think he has only made one century against Australia. The captain coming back in, and batting in the middle, was a bit of an eye-opener, but those are the decisions that a captain has to make,” Ponting noted.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Cricket greats Sunil Gavaskar and Ricky Ponting shared contrasting views over Rohit Sharma’s demotion in the batting order in the ongoing Pink-Ball Test against Australia in Adelaide.

Cricket greats Sunil Gavaskar and Ricky Ponting shared contrasting views over Rohit Sharma’s demotion in the batting order in the ongoing Pink-Ball Test against Australia in Adelaide. While the former India captain backed Rohit’s call to play at six, arguing there was no need to break Rahul-Jaiswal's stand at the top after what they did in Perth, Ponting disagrees, saying Rohit could end up batting at number six for the rest of his Test career, something, given his age, doesn’t fit well for him and the team. Rohit missed the BGT opener in Perth for personal reasons, later re-linking with the Indian Team midway into the first Test. With him back in the side as the captain and batter for the second Test, Rohit sacrificed his opening slot for KL Rahul, who enjoyed his marathon partnership (202) with young Jaiswal in the second innings in Perth, laying the foundation for a massive lead, which eventually helped India draw first blood in the series. In Adelaide, Rahul opened and scored a gritty 37 off 67 balls, second-highest after Nitish Reddy’s 42, while Rohit, batting at six, where he averages the most in Tests outside of the top two, was dismissed cheaply for just three. ALSO READ: BGT 2024/25: Jasprit Bumrah stuns Steve Smith yet again as Rishabh Pant clutches brilliant catch - WATCH Like how India got folded on 150 in the first innings in Perth, they suffered a similar fate here at the Adelaide Oval, getting all out on 180 inside the first two sessions on day one. “The previous Test, you have a 200-run partnership between Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal. You don't want to break that, they have that momentum and confidence. Besides, Rohit Sharma hasn't played any serious cricket for more than a month, the last time he played for India was November 3, we are at December 6,” Gavaskar said, as quoted by Hindustan Times. “Clearly, it was required that he would be able to see what was happening, the pink ball isn't easy to play, India hasn't played a pink-ball test in maybe 2-3 years, so dropping himself down the order was, to me, a correct move,” the former India great added. Punter disagrees with Sunny Meanwhile, the former Australia captain Ricky Ponting disagreed with Gavaskar, saying regardless of how well Rahul played in Perth, Rohit should have never compromised on his batting position and should have opened instead of demoting himself to number six. “I actually disagree with what Sunny (Gavaskar) said. I feel he should've come back in the side and open the batting. KL Rahul has been a fringe player around this team for a number of years. Yes, he got his chance and he played in Perth. “But what it seems to be now is that Rohit Sharma is going to spend the rest of his career down the order Because KL Rahul has played well, Shubman Gill looked good in the first innings, so he looks certain. “The only spot for Rohit Sharma in the side now is no.6 and that might be where he stays for the rest of his career,” Ponting explained. Ponting, however, revealed that Rohit's decision to come back and bat at number six knowing his record against Australia Down Under hasn’t been impressive surprised him. “He is a class player, although his record isn't that good against Australia. I think he has only made one century against Australia. The captain coming back in, and batting in the middle, was a bit of an eye-opener, but those are the decisions that a captain has to make,” Ponting noted. (With inputs from agencies)

BGT: Gavaskar, Ponting share contrasting thoughts over Rohit Sharma’s demotion in batting order in Adelaide

India thrashed Australia by 295 runs in the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) opening Test, in Perth. After the match, pacer Josh Hazlewood's comments made heads turn when, in a post-match presser, he was asked about how the team could have turned the game around in their favour. To this, Hazlewood said, "You probably have to ask one of the batters that question... I’m probably looking mostly towards the next Test." His remark went viral as many former cricketers, including Sunil Gavaskar, felt there is rift in the Aussie camp. However, former Australia captain Aaron Finch&nbsp;hit back at Gavaskar.

Gavaskar, ahead of the second Test in Adelaide, wrote in his column for Sportstar, "The panic in the Australian ranks is palpable, with former players calling for heads to be chopped off and some even hinting at cracks in the Australian team after Josh Hazlewood's media interview at the end of the third day's play, where he suggested that it was up to the batters to now do something."

"Now, a few days later, Hazlewood is out of the second Test and possibly the series too with a supposed side strain. Strangely, nobody had noticed anything wrong with Hazlewood at that media conference. Mystery, mystery - the like of which was common in Indian cricket in the past. Now, it's the Aussies and like Old McDonald, I'm simply loving it," he added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-2024-25-adelaide-the-ground-where-virat-kohli-gave-sneak-peek-into-indias-future-on-tour-of-2014-781541">BGT 2024-25: Adelaide | The ground where Virat Kohli gave sneak peek into India's future on tour of 2014</a>

Now, Finch has slammed Gavaskar's comment. Speaking on ESPNCricinfo, he said, "It's not jabs anymore. Sunny is throwing haymakers over the top. It's quite funny because, having spent a lot of time with him during the first test, he was not saying things like that. He was very respectful of the current Australian group. But now he has just gone bang."

Australia have named their playing XI for the day-night Test in Adelaide, which kicks off on Friday (Dec 6). Scott Boland has replaced an injured Hazlewood.

Australia XI: Usman Khawaja, Nathan McSweeney, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, Alex Carey (wk), Mitchell Starc

India thrashed Australia by 295 runs in the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) opening Test, in Perth. After the match, pacer Josh Hazlewood's comments made heads turn when, in a post-match presser, he was asked about how the team could have turned the game around in their favour.

India thrashed Australia by 295 runs in the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) opening Test, in Perth. After the match, pacer Josh Hazlewood's comments made heads turn when, in a post-match presser, he was asked about how the team could have turned the game around in their favour. To this, Hazlewood said, "You probably have to ask one of the batters that question... I’m probably looking mostly towards the next Test." His remark went viral as many former cricketers, including Sunil Gavaskar, felt there is rift in the Aussie camp. However, former Australia captain Aaron Finch hit back at Gavaskar. Gavaskar, ahead of the second Test in Adelaide, wrote in his column for Sportstar, "The panic in the Australian ranks is palpable, with former players calling for heads to be chopped off and some even hinting at cracks in the Australian team after Josh Hazlewood's media interview at the end of the third day's play, where he suggested that it was up to the batters to now do something." "Now, a few days later, Hazlewood is out of the second Test and possibly the series too with a supposed side strain. Strangely, nobody had noticed anything wrong with Hazlewood at that media conference. Mystery, mystery - the like of which was common in Indian cricket in the past. Now, it's the Aussies and like Old McDonald, I'm simply loving it," he added. Also read: BGT 2024-25: Adelaide | The ground where Virat Kohli gave sneak peek into India's future on tour of 2014 Now, Finch has slammed Gavaskar's comment. Speaking on ESPNCricinfo, he said, "It's not jabs anymore. Sunny is throwing haymakers over the top. It's quite funny because, having spent a lot of time with him during the first test, he was not saying things like that. He was very respectful of the current Australian group. But now he has just gone bang." Australia have named their playing XI for the day-night Test in Adelaide, which kicks off on Friday (Dec 6). Scott Boland has replaced an injured Hazlewood. Australia XI: Usman Khawaja, Nathan McSweeney, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, Alex Carey (wk), Mitchell Starc

Sunny is throwing...: Finch hits back at Gavaskar for 'Australia are panicking' remark ahead of Adelaide Test

Former India skipper Sunil Gavaskar thinks that Australia camp has some cracks in it. The comments come as India prepare of the second Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) Test in Adelaide after winning the first one in Perth by 295 runs.

“The panic in the Australian ranks is palpable, what with former players calling for heads to be chopped off and some even hinting at cracks in the Australian team after Josh Hazlewood’s media interview at the end of the third day’s play, where he suggested that it was up to the batters to now do something," wrote Gavaskar in his column for sports magazine Sportstar.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/wi-pacer-jayden-seales-breaks-india-bowler-umesh-yadavs-record-to-create-test-history-read-here-780912">WI pacer Jayden Seales breaks India bowler Umesh Yadav's record to create Test history</a>

"Now, a few days later, Hazlewood is out of the second Test and possibly the series too with a supposed side strain. Strange, since nobody had noticed anything wrong with Hazlewood at that media conference. Mystery, mystery — the like of which used to be common in Indian cricket in the past. Now it’s the Aussies, and like old McDonald, I’m simply loving it,” he further added.

Hazlewood, notably, had hit out at Aussie batters, especially the top order, for failing to perform across both innings in the Perth Test. The comments were then suggested by former Aussie player Adam Gilchrist as an indication to a rift in the team.

Australia skipper Pat Cummins, however, denied existence of any such situation in the team.

Hazlewood, who was Australia's most successful bowler in Perth, has been sidelined from the day-night Adelaide Test due to an injury. Scott Boland will replace Hazlewood for the Test.&nbsp;

The last time India played in Adelaide was in 2020 and Hazlewood, who took a five-for, had played a pivotal role in dismissing India for 36 in the second innings.

The second Test of the five-match series starts from December 6.

Former India skipper Sunil Gavaskar thinks that Australia camp has some cracks in it. The comments come as India prepare of the second Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) Test in Adelaide after winning the first one in Perth by 295 runs.

Former India skipper Sunil Gavaskar thinks that Australia camp has some cracks in it. The comments come as India prepare of the second Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) Test in Adelaide after winning the first one in Perth by 295 runs. “The panic in the Australian ranks is palpable, what with former players calling for heads to be chopped off and some even hinting at cracks in the Australian team after Josh Hazlewood’s media interview at the end of the third day’s play, where he suggested that it was up to the batters to now do something," wrote Gavaskar in his column for sports magazine Sportstar. Also Read: WI pacer Jayden Seales breaks India bowler Umesh Yadav's record to create Test history "Now, a few days later, Hazlewood is out of the second Test and possibly the series too with a supposed side strain. Strange, since nobody had noticed anything wrong with Hazlewood at that media conference. Mystery, mystery — the like of which used to be common in Indian cricket in the past. Now it’s the Aussies, and like old McDonald, I’m simply loving it,” he further added. Hazlewood, notably, had hit out at Aussie batters, especially the top order, for failing to perform across both innings in the Perth Test. The comments were then suggested by former Aussie player Adam Gilchrist as an indication to a rift in the team. Australia skipper Pat Cummins, however, denied existence of any such situation in the team. Hazlewood, who was Australia's most successful bowler in Perth, has been sidelined from the day-night Adelaide Test due to an injury. Scott Boland will replace Hazlewood for the Test. The last time India played in Adelaide was in 2020 and Hazlewood, who took a five-for, had played a pivotal role in dismissing India for 36 in the second innings. The second Test of the five-match series starts from December 6.

BGT 2024-25: Former India skipper Sunil Gavaskar 'loving palpable panic' in Australia team

Virat Kohli silenced his critics in style with an unbeaten 100 in the second innings of the Perth Test, which India won by 295 runs to take a 1-0 lead over Australia in the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) opener. After Jasprit Bumrah-led India opted to bat first on Day 1, Kohli fell flat like every other Indian batter and got dismissed for 5. However, after India took a 46-run lead despite getting all-out for 150, Kohli turned it around in the second essay, along with Yashasvi Jaiswal (161), with a fine 100*. Thus, the visitors declared at 487-6, setting a mammoth 534-run target. Eventually, India bundled out Aussies for 238 to win the first Test in Perth. Following Kohli's 81st international century, former cricketers Sunil Gavaskar and Matthew Hayden dissected what worked for Kohli&nbsp;after he failed in the first innings in Perth.

Gavaskar told the broadcasters after the end of the Perth Test, "His body was completely relaxed when he came into bat in the second innings. In the first innings, he came out to bat when India had lost two early wickets, he might have been under pressure. In the second innings, I think he gave himself a little more time to play the ball and, apart from the wider stance, I think he allowed himself to play the bounce by being a little bit more upright."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-202425-jaiswal-will-inherit-mantle-of-kohli-tendulkar-greg-chappell-lauds-fearless-indian-opener-779405">BGT 2024/25: Jaiswal will inherit mantle of Kohli, Tendulkar - Greg Chappell lauds 'fearless' Indian opener</a>

Meanwhile, Hayden opined, "I think Sunny (Sunil Gavaskar) made that point (with a slightly more upright stance). I think it’s an excellent point. The reverse can be said of someone going to India and staying low. I think by being a little more upright, your head position is right — staying on top of the bounce and being able to work the ball around from under your sight. I said from the start that I liked him batting more in line with the ball. I think that’s a good strategy. We saw some classic cases where he was able to work the ball through mid-wicket. You can’t do that batting outside the off-stump. Getting into the line was important."

The former Australian opener added, "I like that mid-wicket boundary that he hit off Hazlewood. That, to me, is not the easiest of shots. I think a straight drive is a little more easy, that’s not easy. Just to open up a little bit and play that shot, that was great. You’re never going to change the fact he is going to try and take the ball early. He is always going to be in front of himself. But, when you know he’s got the timing — when the body movement is right — he starts to play great on drives. When you think about the action of the on-drive, where do you take the ball? Not behind the body, but in front of your body. That’s his strength."

India rode on stand-in captain Bumrah's match figures of 8 for 72, Mohammed Siraj's regular strikes, vital contributions from KL Rahul, debutants Nitish Reddy and Harshit Rana, centurions Jaiswal and Kohli to bounce back in the Perth Test&nbsp;after managing&nbsp;150 on the first day.&nbsp;

The second Test will be played at the Adelaide Oval, Adelaide, which gets underway on Dec 6. Regular captain Rohit Sharma will return to the playing XI after missing the series opener due to paternity leave.

Virat Kohli silenced his critics in style with an unbeaten 100 in the second innings of the Perth Test, which India won by 295 runs to take a 1-0 lead over Australia in the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) opener.

Virat Kohli silenced his critics in style with an unbeaten 100 in the second innings of the Perth Test, which India won by 295 runs to take a 1-0 lead over Australia in the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) opener. After Jasprit Bumrah-led India opted to bat first on Day 1, Kohli fell flat like every other Indian batter and got dismissed for 5. However, after India took a 46-run lead despite getting all-out for 150, Kohli turned it around in the second essay, along with Yashasvi Jaiswal (161), with a fine 100*. Thus, the visitors declared at 487-6, setting a mammoth 534-run target. Eventually, India bundled out Aussies for 238 to win the first Test in Perth. Following Kohli's 81st international century, former cricketers Sunil Gavaskar and Matthew Hayden dissected what worked for Kohli after he failed in the first innings in Perth. Gavaskar told the broadcasters after the end of the Perth Test, "His body was completely relaxed when he came into bat in the second innings. In the first innings, he came out to bat when India had lost two early wickets, he might have been under pressure. In the second innings, I think he gave himself a little more time to play the ball and, apart from the wider stance, I think he allowed himself to play the bounce by being a little bit more upright." Also read: BGT 2024/25: Jaiswal will inherit mantle of Kohli, Tendulkar - Greg Chappell lauds 'fearless' Indian opener Meanwhile, Hayden opined, "I think Sunny (Sunil Gavaskar) made that point (with a slightly more upright stance). I think it’s an excellent point. The reverse can be said of someone going to India and staying low. I think by being a little more upright, your head position is right — staying on top of the bounce and being able to work the ball around from under your sight. I said from the start that I liked him batting more in line with the ball. I think that’s a good strategy. We saw some classic cases where he was able to work the ball through mid-wicket. You can’t do that batting outside the off-stump. Getting into the line was important." The former Australian opener added, "I like that mid-wicket boundary that he hit off Hazlewood. That, to me, is not the easiest of shots. I think a straight drive is a little more easy, that’s not easy. Just to open up a little bit and play that shot, that was great. You’re never going to change the fact he is going to try and take the ball early. He is always going to be in front of himself. But, when you know he’s got the timing — when the body movement is right — he starts to play great on drives. When you think about the action of the on-drive, where do you take the ball? Not behind the body, but in front of your body. That’s his strength." India rode on stand-in captain Bumrah's match figures of 8 for 72, Mohammed Siraj's regular strikes, vital contributions from KL Rahul, debutants Nitish Reddy and Harshit Rana, centurions Jaiswal and Kohli to bounce back in the Perth Test after managing 150 on the first day. The second Test will be played at the Adelaide Oval, Adelaide, which gets underway on Dec 6. Regular captain Rohit Sharma will return to the playing XI after missing the series opener due to paternity leave.

BGT 2024/25: Sunil Gavaskar, Matthew Hayden decode what worked for Virat Kohli during his Perth Test ton

Former Australia captain and Test great Ricky Ponting feels Rohit Sharma’s return to the Indian side could potentially disrupt the Indian camp, echoing Sunil Gavaskar’s remarks on why India should have just one captain throughout the series. Rohit remained unavailable for the Perth Test for personal reasons, with the BCCI naming ace pacer Jasprit Bumrah the captain for the BGT opener at the Optus Stadium.

Rohit, however, has informed the Indian Cricket Board about his travel schedule, with a report in Cricbuzz claiming that the Indian skipper will link up with the squad in Perth during the first Test on November 24 (Sunday). He will be available for selection for the second game in Adelaide, a Day/Night Test, starting December 6, and will play the pink-ball warm-up tie in Canberra in the leadup to the second game.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bgt-ganguly-not-ready-to-discount-india-despite-aussie-wave-reminds-vaughan-gilchrist-of-202021-series-778048">BGT: Ganguly not ready to discount India despite Aussie wave; reminds Vaughan, Gilchrist of 2020/21 results</a>

Meanwhile, following Gavaskar’s comments on why Bumrah should lead India in all matches regardless of Rohit’s travel stance and availability status for all games, which irked plenty of fans, including Rohit’s wife, Ritika Sajdeh, who gave a telling reaction to the India great, uttered same sentiments, saying his addition to the side and in the leadership group will cause some confusion among the group.

Ponting said the players knew about Rohit’s stance before and that Bumrah would lead India in Perth, adding, “I just think there’s potential for more disruption through their campaign with Sharma coming back and whatever else. So I’ll stick with it (3-1 verdict in favour of Australia).”&nbsp;

“India will be pretty certain of what team they’re going to play (in Perth). They’ve known for a while that Rohit probably wasn’t going to be here. They’ve probably known for a while that Bumrah was going to be captain. So they’ve probably known what holes they’ve needed to fill. So they’ll be reasonably settled,” Ponting said on The ICC Review ahead of the first Test in Perth starting Friday (Nov 22).

<h2>Gavaskar’s remarks</h2>

During a chat with Sports Tak earlier, Gavaskar explained why India must have just captain throughout the marquee series.

“Captain should play the opening Test. It would have been different had he been injured. But if a captain is not available right in the first Test match of the series, then it would put a lot of pressure on the deputy leader and that is not easy.

“There should be clarity because we lost 0-3 against New Zealand, so the captain has to be there. Indian cricket is the most important thing. Had India won the New Zealand series 3-0, it would have been a different case.” Gavaskar said.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, India could play two debutants in Perth, with several reports suggesting that Nitish Kumar Reddy and Harshit Rana are likely to play the series opener.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Former Australia captain and Test great Ricky Ponting feels Rohit Sharma’s return to the Indian side could potentially disrupt the Indian camp, echoing Sunil Gavaskar’s remarks on why India should have just one captain throughout the series.

Former Australia captain and Test great Ricky Ponting feels Rohit Sharma’s return to the Indian side could potentially disrupt the Indian camp, echoing Sunil Gavaskar’s remarks on why India should have just one captain throughout the series. Rohit remained unavailable for the Perth Test for personal reasons, with the BCCI naming ace pacer Jasprit Bumrah the captain for the BGT opener at the Optus Stadium. Rohit, however, has informed the Indian Cricket Board about his travel schedule, with a report in Cricbuzz claiming that the Indian skipper will link up with the squad in Perth during the first Test on November 24 (Sunday). He will be available for selection for the second game in Adelaide, a Day/Night Test, starting December 6, and will play the pink-ball warm-up tie in Canberra in the leadup to the second game. ALSO READ: BGT: Ganguly not ready to discount India despite Aussie wave; reminds Vaughan, Gilchrist of 2020/21 results Meanwhile, following Gavaskar’s comments on why Bumrah should lead India in all matches regardless of Rohit’s travel stance and availability status for all games, which irked plenty of fans, including Rohit’s wife, Ritika Sajdeh, who gave a telling reaction to the India great, uttered same sentiments, saying his addition to the side and in the leadership group will cause some confusion among the group. Ponting said the players knew about Rohit’s stance before and that Bumrah would lead India in Perth, adding, “I just think there’s potential for more disruption through their campaign with Sharma coming back and whatever else. So I’ll stick with it (3-1 verdict in favour of Australia).” “India will be pretty certain of what team they’re going to play (in Perth). They’ve known for a while that Rohit probably wasn’t going to be here. They’ve probably known for a while that Bumrah was going to be captain. So they’ve probably known what holes they’ve needed to fill. So they’ll be reasonably settled,” Ponting said on The ICC Review ahead of the first Test in Perth starting Friday (Nov 22). Gavaskar’s remarks During a chat with Sports Tak earlier, Gavaskar explained why India must have just captain throughout the marquee series. “Captain should play the opening Test. It would have been different had he been injured. But if a captain is not available right in the first Test match of the series, then it would put a lot of pressure on the deputy leader and that is not easy. “There should be clarity because we lost 0-3 against New Zealand, so the captain has to be there. Indian cricket is the most important thing. Had India won the New Zealand series 3-0, it would have been a different case.” Gavaskar said. Meanwhile, India could play two debutants in Perth, with several reports suggesting that Nitish Kumar Reddy and Harshit Rana are likely to play the series opener. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Rohit’s return to cause ‘disruption’ in Indian camp’ – Ponting echoes Gavaskar’s remarks on BGT captaincy

Former Indian opener Sunil Gavaskar has backed Virat Kohli to come good in the upcoming 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, which gets underway on Nov. 22 in Australia. Kohli has had a torrid run in whites during India's home season, where they hosted Bangladesh and New Zealand for two- and three-Test series respectively. He only managed 192 runs&nbsp;in five&nbsp;Tests, with a solitary 50,&nbsp;and has hit only two centuries in the format since 2020. Gavaskar, however, feels that Kohli will be extra confident playing in Australia, where he has 1,352 runs in 13 Tests and averages an impressive 54.08 including six hundreds and four half-centuries.

<h2>'He'll feel that extra bit of confidence'</h2>

Ahead of the BGT opener&nbsp;in Perth, Gavaskar said on Star Sports,&nbsp;"Because he hasn't got runs against New Zealand, he'll be very, very hungry. Even in that Adelaide Test match, where in the second innings we got all out for 36, in the first innings, Kohli got 70 plus, if I recall correctly, before being run out. He's consistently performed at Adelaide, so it's a familiar ground for him. And before Adelaide, it's Perth, where he played one of the finest Test centuries in 2018-19. A terrific hundred. Having performed on these grounds, he'll feel that extra bit of confidence. Of course, you need a bit of luck at the start, but if he gets off to a good start, he will get big runs."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/genuinely-worried-for-australian-cricket-david-warner-backs-underfire-virat-kohli-to-come-good-in-bgt-202425-776997">Genuinely worried for Australian cricket: David Warner backs under-fire Kohli to come good in BGT 2024/25</a>

Kohli played only one Test during India's last tour of Australia, in 2020/21. He played the first Test, in Adelaide, before leaving for India due to paternity leave. He had a memorable tour in 2014/15, slamming 692 runs (second-most) in eight innings with four centuries.&nbsp;

Given India will be without regular captain Rohit Sharma for the Perth Test, Kohli will have to mentor the Indian batting line-up single-handedly. Meanwhile, Rohit is expected to join the Indian squad before the second Test, in Adelaide.

Former Indian opener Sunil Gavaskar has backed Virat Kohli to come good in the upcoming 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, which gets underway on Nov. 22 in Australia.

Former Indian opener Sunil Gavaskar has backed Virat Kohli to come good in the upcoming 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, which gets underway on Nov. 22 in Australia. Kohli has had a torrid run in whites during India's home season, where they hosted Bangladesh and New Zealand for two- and three-Test series respectively. He only managed 192 runs in five Tests, with a solitary 50, and has hit only two centuries in the format since 2020. Gavaskar, however, feels that Kohli will be extra confident playing in Australia, where he has 1,352 runs in 13 Tests and averages an impressive 54.08 including six hundreds and four half-centuries. 'He'll feel that extra bit of confidence' Ahead of the BGT opener in Perth, Gavaskar said on Star Sports, "Because he hasn't got runs against New Zealand, he'll be very, very hungry. Even in that Adelaide Test match, where in the second innings we got all out for 36, in the first innings, Kohli got 70 plus, if I recall correctly, before being run out. He's consistently performed at Adelaide, so it's a familiar ground for him. And before Adelaide, it's Perth, where he played one of the finest Test centuries in 2018-19. A terrific hundred. Having performed on these grounds, he'll feel that extra bit of confidence. Of course, you need a bit of luck at the start, but if he gets off to a good start, he will get big runs." Also read: Genuinely worried for Australian cricket: David Warner backs under-fire Kohli to come good in BGT 2024/25 Kohli played only one Test during India's last tour of Australia, in 2020/21. He played the first Test, in Adelaide, before leaving for India due to paternity leave. He had a memorable tour in 2014/15, slamming 692 runs (second-most) in eight innings with four centuries. Given India will be without regular captain Rohit Sharma for the Perth Test, Kohli will have to mentor the Indian batting line-up single-handedly. Meanwhile, Rohit is expected to join the Indian squad before the second Test, in Adelaide.

BGT 2024/25: Gavaskar feels out-of-form Virat Kohli will be 'very, very hungry' for runs in marquee series

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

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

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

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

Indian cricket veteran Sunil Gavaskar has pinpointed Rohit Sharma’s weakness, saying Rohit’s attacking style could put him in hot waters. Though the Indian skipper is a proven batter at the top, against Australia Down Under, he perhaps has to hold his horses to avoid getting into trouble.

Gavaskar, a Test veteran, says Rohit likes taking on the bowler up front, something he needs to avoid doing early into the innings against the Aussies. With Mitchell Starc taking the new ball, Gavaskar wants Rohit to avoid attacking him, explaining how a Kookaburra ball (after a certain point) aids batters Down Under, a place which he considers a batting paradise.

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"At the start, he can be troubled by Mitchell Starc's lengths and lines,” Gavaskar said while speaking of Rohit during a chat on Star Sports. “What happens often with Rohit is that his foot doesn't move as much as it should in the first few overs of the contest, because of which he gets into trouble. But, if he can survive the first two or three overs, he can score runs. He needs to get the shot selection right. That's not just for Rohit Sharma but for any batter.”

Gavaskar stressed how playing the waiting game in foreign conditions works as a magic wand for touring batters, adding Rohit can pile tons of runs only by applying himself better.

“Like I said, Australian pitches are good for batters. And they use Kookaburra ball. It doesn't swing or seam much after the first 15 overs,” Gavaskar explained. “Test cricket is a five-day match. If you show some restraint in the first session, then you can score runs.”

<h2>Rohit’s status remains unknown</h2>

Contrary to constant speculations of Rohit missing the first Test against Australia for personal reasons, the BCCI and the team management have kept mum on the matter, leaving it to Rohit to decide on his participation. Though Rohit stayed in Mumbai to be with his wife, who is expecting their second child, the remainder of the BGT-bound Test squad has already reached Australia.

Should Rohit remain unavailable for selection for the Perth Test, KL Rahul will open alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal. The right-handed batter, however, suffered an elbow injury playing against India-A in a WACA simulation game on Friday (Nov 15). Rahul left the field immediately with discomfort, with the medical team attending him on the sidelines.&nbsp;

Also, in Rohit’s absence, ace seamer Jasprit Bumrah will lead India against Australia in the Perth Test.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian cricket veteran Sunil Gavaskar has pinpointed Rohit Sharma’s weakness, saying Rohit’s attacking style could put him in hot waters. Though the Indian skipper is a proven batter at the top, against Australia Down Under, he perhaps has to hold his horses to avoid getting into trouble.

Indian cricket veteran Sunil Gavaskar has pinpointed Rohit Sharma’s weakness, saying Rohit’s attacking style could put him in hot waters. Though the Indian skipper is a proven batter at the top, against Australia Down Under, he perhaps has to hold his horses to avoid getting into trouble. Gavaskar, a Test veteran, says Rohit likes taking on the bowler up front, something he needs to avoid doing early into the innings against the Aussies. With Mitchell Starc taking the new ball, Gavaskar wants Rohit to avoid attacking him, explaining how a Kookaburra ball (after a certain point) aids batters Down Under, a place which he considers a batting paradise. ALSO READ: KL Rahul's elbow injury rocks Indian camp as batters struggle against bounce in WACA match simulation "At the start, he can be troubled by Mitchell Starc's lengths and lines,” Gavaskar said while speaking of Rohit during a chat on Star Sports. “What happens often with Rohit is that his foot doesn't move as much as it should in the first few overs of the contest, because of which he gets into trouble. But, if he can survive the first two or three overs, he can score runs. He needs to get the shot selection right. That's not just for Rohit Sharma but for any batter.” Gavaskar stressed how playing the waiting game in foreign conditions works as a magic wand for touring batters, adding Rohit can pile tons of runs only by applying himself better. “Like I said, Australian pitches are good for batters. And they use Kookaburra ball. It doesn't swing or seam much after the first 15 overs,” Gavaskar explained. “Test cricket is a five-day match. If you show some restraint in the first session, then you can score runs.” Rohit’s status remains unknown Contrary to constant speculations of Rohit missing the first Test against Australia for personal reasons, the BCCI and the team management have kept mum on the matter, leaving it to Rohit to decide on his participation. Though Rohit stayed in Mumbai to be with his wife, who is expecting their second child, the remainder of the BGT-bound Test squad has already reached Australia. Should Rohit remain unavailable for selection for the Perth Test, KL Rahul will open alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal. The right-handed batter, however, suffered an elbow injury playing against India-A in a WACA simulation game on Friday (Nov 15). Rahul left the field immediately with discomfort, with the medical team attending him on the sidelines. Also, in Rohit’s absence, ace seamer Jasprit Bumrah will lead India against Australia in the Perth Test. (With inputs from agencies)

BGT 2024/25: ‘Hold your horses’ – Gavaskar asks Rohit Sharma to see off first few overs to avoid ‘trouble’

Former Indian opener-turned-commentator Sunil Gavaskar thrashed India coach Gautam Gambhir following Rohit Sharma-led side's being whitewashed by New Zealand in the just-concluded three Tests at home. Under Gambhir, who took over as the head coach in July, India lost an ODI series to Sri Lanka, after 27 years, before NZ became the first Test team&nbsp;to whitewash India 3-0 in India. Gavaskar also made a bold claim on Rohit and Virat Kohli's Test future as the duo struggled for runs versus the Kiwis.

Speaking to&nbsp;India Today, Gavaskar said, "The results speak for themselves. Even in Sri Lanka, India lost an ODI series after a long time. And now here, it's a loss, it's a terrible loss. So, I think the results speak for themselves."

"Well, I think every team has a think tank. Probably the captain, vice-captain and the coach -- these are the guys who take the decisions. If it doesn't work out, it looks bad. I think these decisions would have been taken by the think tank," Gavaskar further opined.

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In the NZ series, captain Rohit ended with 91 runs, including a high score of 52. Meanwhile, Kohli amassed 93 runs with a best of 50. While Hitman averaged 15.16, Kohli ended with an average of 15.50. Many have questioned the duo for the lack of domestic cricket, spin woes and inability to trust their defensive game. Gavaskar also claimed that if they don't score in the forthcoming Australia tour, comprising five Tests, it could be the end of Kohli-Rohit in Tests.

Gavaskar added, "Definitely yes. If they (Rohit and Virat) don't score runs in Australia, there will be a clamour for a new-look Indian team to start from the tour of England."

India need a 4-0 win over Australia to qualify for next year's WTC final. If it does not happen, India will have to depend on other results to qualify.

Former Indian opener-turned-commentator Sunil Gavaskar thrashed India coach Gautam Gambhir following Rohit Sharma-led side's being whitewashed by New Zealand in the just-concluded three Tests at home.

Former Indian opener-turned-commentator Sunil Gavaskar thrashed India coach Gautam Gambhir following Rohit Sharma-led side's being whitewashed by New Zealand in the just-concluded three Tests at home. Under Gambhir, who took over as the head coach in July, India lost an ODI series to Sri Lanka, after 27 years, before NZ became the first Test team to whitewash India 3-0 in India. Gavaskar also made a bold claim on Rohit and Virat Kohli's Test future as the duo struggled for runs versus the Kiwis. Speaking to India Today, Gavaskar said, "The results speak for themselves. Even in Sri Lanka, India lost an ODI series after a long time. And now here, it's a loss, it's a terrible loss. So, I think the results speak for themselves." "Well, I think every team has a think tank. Probably the captain, vice-captain and the coach -- these are the guys who take the decisions. If it doesn't work out, it looks bad. I think these decisions would have been taken by the think tank," Gavaskar further opined. Also read: BCCI wishes Virat Kohli on his 36th birthday, netizens join in to pour their love In the NZ series, captain Rohit ended with 91 runs, including a high score of 52. Meanwhile, Kohli amassed 93 runs with a best of 50. While Hitman averaged 15.16, Kohli ended with an average of 15.50. Many have questioned the duo for the lack of domestic cricket, spin woes and inability to trust their defensive game. Gavaskar also claimed that if they don't score in the forthcoming Australia tour, comprising five Tests, it could be the end of Kohli-Rohit in Tests. Gavaskar added, "Definitely yes. If they (Rohit and Virat) don't score runs in Australia, there will be a clamour for a new-look Indian team to start from the tour of England." India need a 4-0 win over Australia to qualify for next year's WTC final. If it does not happen, India will have to depend on other results to qualify.

Sunil Gavaskar SLAMS Gautam Gambhir's stint as India coach, makes BOLD claim on Rohit, Kohli's Test future

New Zealand blanked India 3-0 in the recently concluded Test series, becoming the first team to clean-sweep India in their home conditions. That blow hit everyone - from players to analysts and fans to former legends, harder, with ex-India captain and batting great Sunil Gavaskar coming down hard on Rohit Sharma’s men over this result.

With India losing the home Test series 0-3, their chances of reaching the WTC Final 2025 suffered a serious beating; for them to now qualify for the summit clash for the third straight time, they must beat Australia 4-0, something Gavaskar feels is like a mountain to climb for the visitors.

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Gavaskar tore into BCCI’s ‘short-gain policy’ of preparing tracks for just spinners when their team has the best fast bowler in the world – Jasprit Bumrah, saying this cost India in this series, adding with this low morale, it’s hard to pull off a miracle Down Under.

“Australia looks like a huge mountain to climb after the Indian team stumbled terribly on a speed bump called New Zealand. Nobody, not even the Kiwis themselves, would have thought of a clean sweep against India, and that too in India.”&nbsp;

“It has happened thanks to the short-gain policy of preparing pitches for our spinners when just about everybody in the cricketing world agrees that we have the best new-ball bowler in the world across all formats," Gavaskar wrote in his column for Sportstar.

<h2>Calling off intra-squad game upsets Gavaskar</h2>

The BCCI had earlier planned an intra-squad game between India and India-A at the WACA in Perth ahead of the first Test but scrapped this idea at the last minute, restricting India’s preparation for the marquee series to just training in the nets and batting on centre wicket.

Though most batters picked have toured Australia before, Gavaskar feels this decision could cost the newcomers like Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sarfaraz Khan, who are crucial to the side’s success in Australia.

"We are now told that the warm-up game before the first Test has been called off. Wouldn’t it benefit youngsters like (Yashasvi) Jaiswal and Sarfaraz (Khan), who are playing on Australian pitches for the first time, to get some runs under their belt and get a feel of what the pitches will be like?&nbsp;

"And if they get out early, they can still get into the nets and practice against the throw-down specialist or the net bowlers. For bowlers like Akash Deep and Harshit Rana too, it’s essential to know the best length to bowl in Australia, as it’s different from India, and the best learning is in a proper match and not just net practice.&nbsp;

"Let’s just hope that good sense prevails, and even now, though it’s too late, some warm-up games can be arranged, even if it’s against the State A teams like Queensland A and Victoria A. These warm-up games will give the first-timers to Australia and youngsters good practice and a better chance to succeed," Gavaskar added.

Meanwhile, the Optus Stadium in Perth will host the first Test starting November 22.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

New Zealand blanked India 3-0 in the recently concluded Test series, becoming the first team to clean-sweep India in their home conditions. That blow hit everyone - from players to analysts and fans to former legends, harder, with ex-India captain and batting great Sunil Gavaskar coming down hard on Rohit Sharma’s men over this result.

New Zealand blanked India 3-0 in the recently concluded Test series, becoming the first team to clean-sweep India in their home conditions. That blow hit everyone - from players to analysts and fans to former legends, harder, with ex-India captain and batting great Sunil Gavaskar coming down hard on Rohit Sharma’s men over this result. With India losing the home Test series 0-3, their chances of reaching the WTC Final 2025 suffered a serious beating; for them to now qualify for the summit clash for the third straight time, they must beat Australia 4-0, something Gavaskar feels is like a mountain to climb for the visitors. ALSO READ: KL Rahul and Dhruv Jurel to feature in second India-A game ahead of Australia Tests Gavaskar tore into BCCI’s ‘short-gain policy’ of preparing tracks for just spinners when their team has the best fast bowler in the world – Jasprit Bumrah, saying this cost India in this series, adding with this low morale, it’s hard to pull off a miracle Down Under. “Australia looks like a huge mountain to climb after the Indian team stumbled terribly on a speed bump called New Zealand. Nobody, not even the Kiwis themselves, would have thought of a clean sweep against India, and that too in India.” “It has happened thanks to the short-gain policy of preparing pitches for our spinners when just about everybody in the cricketing world agrees that we have the best new-ball bowler in the world across all formats," Gavaskar wrote in his column for Sportstar. Calling off intra-squad game upsets Gavaskar The BCCI had earlier planned an intra-squad game between India and India-A at the WACA in Perth ahead of the first Test but scrapped this idea at the last minute, restricting India’s preparation for the marquee series to just training in the nets and batting on centre wicket. Though most batters picked have toured Australia before, Gavaskar feels this decision could cost the newcomers like Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sarfaraz Khan, who are crucial to the side’s success in Australia. "We are now told that the warm-up game before the first Test has been called off. Wouldn’t it benefit youngsters like (Yashasvi) Jaiswal and Sarfaraz (Khan), who are playing on Australian pitches for the first time, to get some runs under their belt and get a feel of what the pitches will be like? "And if they get out early, they can still get into the nets and practice against the throw-down specialist or the net bowlers. For bowlers like Akash Deep and Harshit Rana too, it’s essential to know the best length to bowl in Australia, as it’s different from India, and the best learning is in a proper match and not just net practice. "Let’s just hope that good sense prevails, and even now, though it’s too late, some warm-up games can be arranged, even if it’s against the State A teams like Queensland A and Victoria A. These warm-up games will give the first-timers to Australia and youngsters good practice and a better chance to succeed," Gavaskar added. Meanwhile, the Optus Stadium in Perth will host the first Test starting November 22. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Cricketing world agrees…’ – India legend slams BCCI’s ‘short-gain policies’ after New Zealand whitewash

India beat Bangladesh by seven wickets on Day 5 of the second and final Test, on Oct 1, to win the recently-held two-match series 2-0. The match displayed Rohit Sharma's excellent captaincy as he inspired his side to push for a win after Day 2 and 3 were completely washed out due to rain and wet outfield. Opting to bowl first, India had reduced the Bangla Tigers to&nbsp;107/3 in a rain-marred opening day and the game resumed on the penultimate day, which saw the visitors folding up for 233 in Kanpur. In reply, India batted with aggression to declare at 285-9, in 33.4 overs, with a lead of 52. Eventually, India folded Bangladesh for 146 in their second essay and easily chased down the 95-run target to inflict a series whitewash.

Following the series win, critics hailed Rohit and head coach Gautam Gambhir for instilling fearlessness among the Indian batters. Many solely credited Gambhir for inspiring India's refreshing change in approach with the bat. However, it hasn't been well received by former Indian opener Sunil Gavaskar. Gavaskar feels the sole credit goes to captain Rohit, who has been showing the way to the Indian batters since taking charge of the national side.

Gavaskar wrote in his column for Sportstar, "While one paper called the Indian batting “Bossball” because the captain or “boss” of the team, Rohit, had shown the way, some from the old powers referred to it as “Gamball” after the Indian coach, Gautam Gambhir. While the England batting approach changed completely under the new regime of Ben Stokes and McCullum, we have seen over the last couple of years that Rohit has been batting like this and encouraging his team to do so as well."

<h2>'Attributing this approach to Gambhir is foot-licking of the highest quality'</h2>

"Gambhir has only been coaching for a couple of months, so attributing this approach to him is foot-licking of the highest quality. Gambhir himself hardly ever batted in this fashion like McCullum used to do. If any credit is due, it is solely to Rohit and nobody else,” he further mentioned.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/what-sort-of-cricket-do-you-play-former-cricketer-slams-bangladesh-for-no-show-in-1st-t20i-vs-india-765122">What sort of cricket do you play?: Former cricketer slams Bangladesh for no show in 1st T20I vs India</a>

Gavaskar added, "Instead of using the words this-ball or that-ball, I would suggest using the skipper’s first name, Rohit, and term it the “Gohit” approach. Hopefully, brainier people will come up with a trendier name for this rather than the lazy option of calling it after “Bazball”."

At present, Rohit is enjoying his break before the New Zealand home Test series, starting on Oct 16 in Bengaluru. Meanwhile, Gambhir is involved in India's three T20Is versus Bangladesh.&nbsp;

India beat Bangladesh by seven wickets on Day 5 of the second and final Test, on Oct 1, to win the recently-held two-match series 2-0. The match displayed Rohit Sharma's excellent captaincy as he inspired his side to push for a win after Day 2 and 3 were completely washed out due to rain and wet outfield.

India beat Bangladesh by seven wickets on Day 5 of the second and final Test, on Oct 1, to win the recently-held two-match series 2-0. The match displayed Rohit Sharma's excellent captaincy as he inspired his side to push for a win after Day 2 and 3 were completely washed out due to rain and wet outfield. Opting to bowl first, India had reduced the Bangla Tigers to 107/3 in a rain-marred opening day and the game resumed on the penultimate day, which saw the visitors folding up for 233 in Kanpur. In reply, India batted with aggression to declare at 285-9, in 33.4 overs, with a lead of 52. Eventually, India folded Bangladesh for 146 in their second essay and easily chased down the 95-run target to inflict a series whitewash. Following the series win, critics hailed Rohit and head coach Gautam Gambhir for instilling fearlessness among the Indian batters. Many solely credited Gambhir for inspiring India's refreshing change in approach with the bat. However, it hasn't been well received by former Indian opener Sunil Gavaskar. Gavaskar feels the sole credit goes to captain Rohit, who has been showing the way to the Indian batters since taking charge of the national side. Gavaskar wrote in his column for Sportstar, "While one paper called the Indian batting “Bossball” because the captain or “boss” of the team, Rohit, had shown the way, some from the old powers referred to it as “Gamball” after the Indian coach, Gautam Gambhir. While the England batting approach changed completely under the new regime of Ben Stokes and McCullum, we have seen over the last couple of years that Rohit has been batting like this and encouraging his team to do so as well." 'Attributing this approach to Gambhir is foot-licking of the highest quality' "Gambhir has only been coaching for a couple of months, so attributing this approach to him is foot-licking of the highest quality. Gambhir himself hardly ever batted in this fashion like McCullum used to do. If any credit is due, it is solely to Rohit and nobody else,” he further mentioned. Also read: What sort of cricket do you play?: Former cricketer slams Bangladesh for no show in 1st T20I vs India Gavaskar added, "Instead of using the words this-ball or that-ball, I would suggest using the skipper’s first name, Rohit, and term it the “Gohit” approach. Hopefully, brainier people will come up with a trendier name for this rather than the lazy option of calling it after “Bazball”." At present, Rohit is enjoying his break before the New Zealand home Test series, starting on Oct 16 in Bengaluru. Meanwhile, Gambhir is involved in India's three T20Is versus Bangladesh.

Gambhir hardly...: Gavaskar SLAMS India coach's 'bootlickers', credits Rohit for India's batting revolution

India will host Bangladesh in a two-match Test series, starting Thursday (Sep 19). The first Test will be held at the iconic MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai, before the action moves to Green Park, Kanpur. Rohit Sharma-led India are firm favourites, having not lost a Test series at home since 2012, but the Bangla Tigers cannot be taken lightly.&nbsp;The visitors are coming into the&nbsp;Test series with confidence after a 2-0 whitewash over Pakistan in Pakistan. Despite Bangladesh being ranked ninth, the No. 2 ranked Indian team won't take them lightly. Ahead of the series, former Indian opener Sunil Gavaskar has issued a stern warning to Rohit &amp; Co.

In his column for Mid-day, Gavaskar wrote, "By beating Pakistan in both the Test matches played in Pakistan, the Bangladesh team have shown that they are a force to reckon with. Even a couple of years back, when India toured Bangladesh, they were given a good fight by the Bangladeshis. Now with the series win against Pakistan under their belt, they are primed to take on India too."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/what-can-i-say-wasim-admits-being-surprised-by-babar-azams-reappointment-as-pakistan-captain-for-t20-wc-759076">What can I say: Wasim admits being 'surprised' by Babar Azam’s reappointment as Pakistan captain for T20 WC</a>

<h2>'Now no team playing Bangladesh can't put their guard down'</h2>

He further wrote, "They have some fine players in their ranks and some new promising players who no longer have the awe of the opposition that seemed to characterise their early forays into the international game. Now, every team that play them know they can't put their guard down as they could be knocked down as the Pakistanis found out. It will certainly be a series to look forward to."

The two-match Test series holds a lot of significance for both the sides with an eye to add to their points in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) standings for the 2023-25 cycle.

After the two Tests, India will also host Bangladesh for three T20Is early next month.&nbsp;

India will host Bangladesh in a two-match Test series, starting Thursday (Sep 19). The first Test will be held at the iconic MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai, before the action moves to Green Park, Kanpur.

India will host Bangladesh in a two-match Test series, starting Thursday (Sep 19). The first Test will be held at the iconic MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai, before the action moves to Green Park, Kanpur. Rohit Sharma-led India are firm favourites, having not lost a Test series at home since 2012, but the Bangla Tigers cannot be taken lightly. The visitors are coming into the Test series with confidence after a 2-0 whitewash over Pakistan in Pakistan. Despite Bangladesh being ranked ninth, the No. 2 ranked Indian team won't take them lightly. Ahead of the series, former Indian opener Sunil Gavaskar has issued a stern warning to Rohit & Co. In his column for Mid-day, Gavaskar wrote, "By beating Pakistan in both the Test matches played in Pakistan, the Bangladesh team have shown that they are a force to reckon with. Even a couple of years back, when India toured Bangladesh, they were given a good fight by the Bangladeshis. Now with the series win against Pakistan under their belt, they are primed to take on India too." Also read: What can I say: Wasim admits being 'surprised' by Babar Azam’s reappointment as Pakistan captain for T20 WC 'Now no team playing Bangladesh can't put their guard down' He further wrote, "They have some fine players in their ranks and some new promising players who no longer have the awe of the opposition that seemed to characterise their early forays into the international game. Now, every team that play them know they can't put their guard down as they could be knocked down as the Pakistanis found out. It will certainly be a series to look forward to." The two-match Test series holds a lot of significance for both the sides with an eye to add to their points in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) standings for the 2023-25 cycle. After the two Tests, India will also host Bangladesh for three T20Is early next month.

Can't put...: Sunil Gavaskar issues stern warning to Rohit Sharma-led India ahead of Bangladesh Tests

Indian legend Sunil Gavaskar has slammed former England captain Michael Vaughan after he compared Joe Root to Sachin Tendulkar. While the comparison remains fair, the nature of the comment made the former World Cup winner furious as Vaughan reckoned that cricket would be in good hands if Root broke Tendulkar’s record for most Test runs. According to Gavaskar, while the comparison is fair, it should have nothing to do with who holds the record, whether it is an Englishman or Indian.

<h2>Gavaskar slams Vaughan</h2>

"Recently, I heard someone saying it would be good for Test cricket if Joe Root overtook Sachin Tendulkar’s record for most runs and centuries in Test match cricket," Sunil Gavaskar wrote in his Sports Star column.

"Please tell us what’s wrong with Test cricket presently when Tendulkar is owning the record and how will Test cricket be better if (and that’s a huge if) an Englishman goes on to hold it. In what way will it be better? Kindly enlighten us.”

In the recently concluded Test match series against Sri Lanka, Root broke Alastair Cook’s record for most Test hundreds scored by an Englishman with 34. The 33-year-old is also on the brink of becoming the most decorated player in English cricket as he eyes Cook’s record for most Test runs. At the time of writing, he is on 12402 runs and needs 71 more runs to break record.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/duleep-trophy-2024-ishan-kishan-makes-eye-catching-return-to-domestic-cricket-with-111-run-knock-for-india-c-758164">Duleep Trophy 2024: Ishan Kishan makes eye-catching return to domestic cricket with 111-run knock for India C</a>

In the bigger picture, Root requires 3520 runs to break Sachin Tendulkar’s record for most Test runs. Provided he plays for another 3-4 years, the record won’t be out of sight for the former England captain.

However, for now, the comments made by Vaughan haven’t gone well with the Indian legend, who is next on Root’s radar for most Test hundreds. Both Gavaskar and Root have 34 Test hundreds.

Indian legend Sunil Gavaskar has slammed former England captain Michael Vaughan after he compared Joe Root to Sachin Tendulkar. While the comparison remains fair, the nature of the comment made the former World Cup winner furious as Vaughan reckoned that cricket would be in good hands if Root broke Tendulkar’s record for most Test runs.

Indian legend Sunil Gavaskar has slammed former England captain Michael Vaughan after he compared Joe Root to Sachin Tendulkar. While the comparison remains fair, the nature of the comment made the former World Cup winner furious as Vaughan reckoned that cricket would be in good hands if Root broke Tendulkar’s record for most Test runs. According to Gavaskar, while the comparison is fair, it should have nothing to do with who holds the record, whether it is an Englishman or Indian. Gavaskar slams Vaughan "Recently, I heard someone saying it would be good for Test cricket if Joe Root overtook Sachin Tendulkar’s record for most runs and centuries in Test match cricket," Sunil Gavaskar wrote in his Sports Star column. "Please tell us what’s wrong with Test cricket presently when Tendulkar is owning the record and how will Test cricket be better if (and that’s a huge if) an Englishman goes on to hold it. In what way will it be better? Kindly enlighten us.” In the recently concluded Test match series against Sri Lanka, Root broke Alastair Cook’s record for most Test hundreds scored by an Englishman with 34. The 33-year-old is also on the brink of becoming the most decorated player in English cricket as he eyes Cook’s record for most Test runs. At the time of writing, he is on 12402 runs and needs 71 more runs to break record. ALSO READ | Duleep Trophy 2024: Ishan Kishan makes eye-catching return to domestic cricket with 111-run knock for India C In the bigger picture, Root requires 3520 runs to break Sachin Tendulkar’s record for most Test runs. Provided he plays for another 3-4 years, the record won’t be out of sight for the former England captain. However, for now, the comments made by Vaughan haven’t gone well with the Indian legend, who is next on Root’s radar for most Test hundreds. Both Gavaskar and Root have 34 Test hundreds.

'Please tell us what’s wrong': Gavaskar slams Vaughan for comments on Joe Root surpassing Sachin Tendulkar

Former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar has questioned the BCCI for India's lack of preparations heading into the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), to be held in Australia. The five-match Test series is set to get underway on Nov 22, in Perth, and the Rohit Sharma-led Indian team will head into the marquee series after playing just one practice game, i.e. a two-day affair at Manuka Oval, Canberra. Hence, this has left Little Master Gavaskar worried given Australia are looking to regain the BGT for the first time since 2014.

Gavaskar wrote in his column for Mid-Day, "The news that the regular match for touring teams against the Australian Prime Minister’s XI has been reduced to a 2-day game is a disappointing one. By all means, rest the seniors and let them not even travel to Canberra for the game but give the newer younger players a proper first-class game rather than a 2-day game which will be neither here nor there. After all, the team are going there to play cricket and not to take rest."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/get-back-to-the-high-standards-sunil-gavaskar-questions-virat-kohli-rohit-sharma-missing-duleep-trophy-751338">'Get back to the high standards...': Sunil Gavaskar questions Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma missing Duleep Trophy</a>

<h2>'There's still time to change it to a 3-day game'</h2>

Gavaskar further insisted, "The Australians are thirsting for revenge and the Indians will have to be razor sharp to get a hat-trick of series wins there. There's still time to change it to a 3-day game and give the younger inexperienced players a better chance to succeed against the World Test Champions. C'mon BCCI, you can do it."

Pat Cummins-led Australia are desperate to win their first-ever BGT since 2014/15 edition, at home. Since then, Aussies have lost two away and home series each to their fierce rivals India.&nbsp;

Rohit-led India will have to be on their toes to make it three successive Test series win on Australian soil by winning the forthcoming BGT. However, it won't be an easy task against the reigning Test world champions.

Former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar has questioned the BCCI for India's lack of preparations heading into the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), to be held in Australia.

Former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar has questioned the BCCI for India's lack of preparations heading into the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), to be held in Australia. The five-match Test series is set to get underway on Nov 22, in Perth, and the Rohit Sharma-led Indian team will head into the marquee series after playing just one practice game, i.e. a two-day affair at Manuka Oval, Canberra. Hence, this has left Little Master Gavaskar worried given Australia are looking to regain the BGT for the first time since 2014. Gavaskar wrote in his column for Mid-Day, "The news that the regular match for touring teams against the Australian Prime Minister’s XI has been reduced to a 2-day game is a disappointing one. By all means, rest the seniors and let them not even travel to Canberra for the game but give the newer younger players a proper first-class game rather than a 2-day game which will be neither here nor there. After all, the team are going there to play cricket and not to take rest." Also read: 'Get back to the high standards...': Sunil Gavaskar questions Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma missing Duleep Trophy 'There's still time to change it to a 3-day game' Gavaskar further insisted, "The Australians are thirsting for revenge and the Indians will have to be razor sharp to get a hat-trick of series wins there. There's still time to change it to a 3-day game and give the younger inexperienced players a better chance to succeed against the World Test Champions. C'mon BCCI, you can do it." Pat Cummins-led Australia are desperate to win their first-ever BGT since 2014/15 edition, at home. Since then, Aussies have lost two away and home series each to their fierce rivals India. Rohit-led India will have to be on their toes to make it three successive Test series win on Australian soil by winning the forthcoming BGT. However, it won't be an easy task against the reigning Test world champions.

Team is going there to play, not rest: Gavaskar SLAMS BCCI's preparation for India's tour of Australia

BCCI recently announced four squads for the upcoming Duleep Trophy. The forthcoming domestic tournament will feature KL Rahul,&nbsp;Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer, Ravindra Jadeja, Rishabh Pant, Suryakumar Yadav, etc., however, the likes of Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah have not been included. While Bumrah's omission is justified as the selectors want the pacer to manage his workload, many have questioned Kohli and Rohit's absence, given there is a long red-ball season that awaits India with the Bangladesh, New Zealand, and Australia series.

Thus, former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar isn't impressed. The veteran explained how it is essential for batters to play even during international breaks and a prolonged gap can dent them, especially in the 'mid-thirties'.

In his column for Mid-Day, Gavaskar wrote, "The selectors have not picked the skipper Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli for the Duleep Trophy so they will most likely go into the Bangladesh Test series without much match practice."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/we-bowled-them-out-for-36-and-thought-hazlewood-claims-australia-desperate-to-end-losing-streak-vs-india-751246">We bowled them out for 36 and thought...: Hazlewood claims Australia desperate to end losing streak vs India</a>

<h2>'When there’s a long&nbsp;gap,&nbsp;muscle memory weakens and getting back to high standards....'</h2>

He added, "While it’s understandable that somebody like Jasprit Bumrah with his delicate back needs to be handled with care, the batters could have done with some batting time out in the middle. Once a player hits the mid-thirties in any sport, then regular competition will help him maintain the high standards he has set. When there’s a longish gap then the muscle memory weakens somewhat and to get back to the high standards from earlier is not easy."

Earlier, BCCI Secretary Jay Shah justified Rohit and Kohli's absence and stated&nbsp;that they don’t want them to pick up injuries while playing domestic cricket.

He told TOI,&nbsp;"It doesn’t make sense to add to Virat and Rohit’s load by asking them to play domestic cricket. They run the risk of getting injured."

Post the Duleep Trophy, India will start their home season with two Tests versus Bangladesh. The first Test will get underway on&nbsp;Sep&nbsp;19 in Chennai.

BCCI recently announced four squads for the upcoming Duleep Trophy. The forthcoming domestic tournament will feature KL Rahul, Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer, Ravindra Jadeja, Rishabh Pant, Suryakumar Yadav, etc.

BCCI recently announced four squads for the upcoming Duleep Trophy. The forthcoming domestic tournament will feature KL Rahul, Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer, Ravindra Jadeja, Rishabh Pant, Suryakumar Yadav, etc., however, the likes of Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah have not been included. While Bumrah's omission is justified as the selectors want the pacer to manage his workload, many have questioned Kohli and Rohit's absence, given there is a long red-ball season that awaits India with the Bangladesh, New Zealand, and Australia series. Thus, former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar isn't impressed. The veteran explained how it is essential for batters to play even during international breaks and a prolonged gap can dent them, especially in the 'mid-thirties'. In his column for Mid-Day, Gavaskar wrote, "The selectors have not picked the skipper Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli for the Duleep Trophy so they will most likely go into the Bangladesh Test series without much match practice." Also read: We bowled them out for 36 and thought...: Hazlewood claims Australia desperate to end losing streak vs India 'When there’s a long gap, muscle memory weakens and getting back to high standards....' He added, "While it’s understandable that somebody like Jasprit Bumrah with his delicate back needs to be handled with care, the batters could have done with some batting time out in the middle. Once a player hits the mid-thirties in any sport, then regular competition will help him maintain the high standards he has set. When there’s a longish gap then the muscle memory weakens somewhat and to get back to the high standards from earlier is not easy." Earlier, BCCI Secretary Jay Shah justified Rohit and Kohli's absence and stated that they don’t want them to pick up injuries while playing domestic cricket. He told TOI, "It doesn’t make sense to add to Virat and Rohit’s load by asking them to play domestic cricket. They run the risk of getting injured." Post the Duleep Trophy, India will start their home season with two Tests versus Bangladesh. The first Test will get underway on Sep 19 in Chennai.

'Get back to the high standards...': Sunil Gavaskar questions Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma missing Duleep Trophy

Former India cricketer Sunil Gavaskar has backed ex-badminton player Prakash Padukone's comments criticising Lakshya Sen for failing to win an Olympic medal at the Paris Games. Lakshya finished fourth in the men's individual round after losing to Victor Axelsen in semis and Lee Zii Jia in the bronze medal match.

"Making excuses is where our country will win gold medals every single time, so the debate around his assessment was more about that than looking without tinted glasses at what he said," Gavaskar wrote in his column for sports magazine Sportstar.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympics/news-vinesh-phogat-feeling-little-better-but-not-talking-to-anyone-reveal-sources-as-paris-games-verdict-awaited-749689">Vinesh Phogat feeling 'little better' but not talking to anyone, reveal sources as Paris Games verdict awaited</a>

It is to be noted that Lakshya's mentor Padukone had called out the badminton player saying: “Had he lost comfortably, it would have been a different issue. But to have come this far, to have taken the lead…I know he is young, but he cannot give this as an excuse. Take the responsibility and work harder.”

Gavaskar backed Padukone's statements and wrote: "He said that the players today get all the backing and facilities from their Federations and the government too. Therefore, they should take responsibility for their performances too. It was a point well-made and well-articulated too, without pointing fingers at anybody."

"Yet as it invariably happens in our country, which again is a champion at reading between so-called lines and imagining unintended poisoned arrows, we were quick to jump on him and denounce his comments rather than take the time to digest them and then come out with our comparatively uninformed views."

Lakshya, on the other hand, has vowed to come out stronger and win a medal in the next Olympics, scheduled in 2028 in Los Angeles, USA.

"I am determined to reflect on what went wrong and where I need to improve. I sincerely request space and privacy at this time to regroup, come back stronger, and win laurels for India," wrote the history-maker Indian badminton player.

Former India cricketer Sunil Gavaskar has backed ex-badminton player Prakash Padukone's comments criticising Lakshya Sen for failing to win an Olympic medal at the Paris Games.

Former India cricketer Sunil Gavaskar has backed ex-badminton player Prakash Padukone's comments criticising Lakshya Sen for failing to win an Olympic medal at the Paris Games. Lakshya finished fourth in the men's individual round after losing to Victor Axelsen in semis and Lee Zii Jia in the bronze medal match. "Making excuses is where our country will win gold medals every single time, so the debate around his assessment was more about that than looking without tinted glasses at what he said," Gavaskar wrote in his column for sports magazine Sportstar. Also Read: Vinesh Phogat feeling 'little better' but not talking to anyone, reveal sources as Paris Games verdict awaited It is to be noted that Lakshya's mentor Padukone had called out the badminton player saying: “Had he lost comfortably, it would have been a different issue. But to have come this far, to have taken the lead…I know he is young, but he cannot give this as an excuse. Take the responsibility and work harder.” Gavaskar backed Padukone's statements and wrote: "He said that the players today get all the backing and facilities from their Federations and the government too. Therefore, they should take responsibility for their performances too. It was a point well-made and well-articulated too, without pointing fingers at anybody." "Yet as it invariably happens in our country, which again is a champion at reading between so-called lines and imagining unintended poisoned arrows, we were quick to jump on him and denounce his comments rather than take the time to digest them and then come out with our comparatively uninformed views." Lakshya, on the other hand, has vowed to come out stronger and win a medal in the next Olympics, scheduled in 2028 in Los Angeles, USA. "I am determined to reflect on what went wrong and where I need to improve. I sincerely request space and privacy at this time to regroup, come back stronger, and win laurels for India," wrote the history-maker Indian badminton player.

'We were quick to jump...,' Sunil Gavaskar reacts to Prakash Padukone's criticism of Lakshya Sen

Former India captain and batting great Sunil Gavaskar has slammed the critics of BCCI secretary Jay Shah, saying ‘political agendas’ stop them from praising Shah for his efforts as the board’s administrator. Gavaskar said since Jay Shah happens to be India’s Home Minister, Amit Shah’s son, people hesitate to credit him for lifting Indian cricket to the position it enjoys in world cricket today.

Gavaskar said Shah has played a significant role in the growth of Indian cricket, including ensuring equal pay for men’s and women’s teams, the launching of the Women’s Premier League (WPL) and much more.

Shah began his career in cricket administration with his stint at Gujarat Cricket Association before joining BCCI in 2015. After four years, in 2019, Shah was elected as the board’s secretary, taking the onus of Indian cricket into his hands and delivering since. Shah is also the Asian Cricket Council’s (ACC) President, responsible for the cricket operations in the Southeast Asian region.

Speaking to India Today, Gavaskar said he has always appreciated Shah’s work as an administrator as it helped promote cricket, not just Indian cricket, over the years. He didn’t mince&nbsp;words in&nbsp;admitting that differences in political opinions have restrained fans from giving due credit to Jay Shah for his ‘outstanding work’.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-enjoyed-working-with-rohit-as-a-person-and-captain-admits-former-coach-rahul-dravid-738439">‘I enjoyed working with Rohit as a person and captain’, admits former coach Rahul Dravid</a>

“Look, I think the quality of governance has always been such that they’ve aimed to promote Indian cricket,” Gavaskar said in a chat with India Today. “There will always be the occasional individual who might be a bit disappointing. But I think what the current leadership has done is quite outstanding.”

“Many people criticize Jay Shah, focusing on his father’s political position rather than his contributions. However, what Jay Shah has achieved—like bringing in the Women’s Premier League, ensuring equal pay for the Women’s team as the Men’s, increasing fees for IPL players, and significantly boosting incentives—is commendable. Unfortunately, some refuse to give him credit due to a political agenda,” Gavaskar continued.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Administration should be left to experts’</h2>

Gavaskar said not necessarily those who have played cricket will only take the game forward, instead those who are passionate about cricket are the ones to take extra yards to make this sport a success.

“From my experience, those who genuinely love cricket often do more for Indian cricket than those who have played it. This might be surprising, but people who are passionate about the game, even if they haven’t played at the highest level, tend to contribute more effectively when guided properly. Conversely, some former players sometimes remain fixated on their era, resisting changes that benefit the current generation,” Gavaskar said.

“So, I believe that while former cricketers are invaluable for addressing technical issues—like game rules and improving the Ranji Trophy’s competitiveness—the administration and financial management should be left to the experts,” he continued.

(With inputs from agencies)

Former India captain and batting great Sunil Gavaskar has slammed the critics of BCCI secretary Jay Shah, saying ‘political agendas’ stop them from praising Shah for his efforts as the board’s administrator.

Former India captain and batting great Sunil Gavaskar has slammed the critics of BCCI secretary Jay Shah, saying ‘political agendas’ stop them from praising Shah for his efforts as the board’s administrator. Gavaskar said since Jay Shah happens to be India’s Home Minister, Amit Shah’s son, people hesitate to credit him for lifting Indian cricket to the position it enjoys in world cricket today. Gavaskar said Shah has played a significant role in the growth of Indian cricket, including ensuring equal pay for men’s and women’s teams, the launching of the Women’s Premier League (WPL) and much more. Shah began his career in cricket administration with his stint at Gujarat Cricket Association before joining BCCI in 2015. After four years, in 2019, Shah was elected as the board’s secretary, taking the onus of Indian cricket into his hands and delivering since. Shah is also the Asian Cricket Council’s (ACC) President, responsible for the cricket operations in the Southeast Asian region. Speaking to India Today, Gavaskar said he has always appreciated Shah’s work as an administrator as it helped promote cricket, not just Indian cricket, over the years. He didn’t mince words in admitting that differences in political opinions have restrained fans from giving due credit to Jay Shah for his ‘outstanding work’. ALSO READ: ‘I enjoyed working with Rohit as a person and captain’, admits former coach Rahul Dravid “Look, I think the quality of governance has always been such that they’ve aimed to promote Indian cricket,” Gavaskar said in a chat with India Today. “There will always be the occasional individual who might be a bit disappointing. But I think what the current leadership has done is quite outstanding.” “Many people criticize Jay Shah, focusing on his father’s political position rather than his contributions. However, what Jay Shah has achieved—like bringing in the Women’s Premier League, ensuring equal pay for the Women’s team as the Men’s, increasing fees for IPL players, and significantly boosting incentives—is commendable. Unfortunately, some refuse to give him credit due to a political agenda,” Gavaskar continued. ‘Administration should be left to experts’ Gavaskar said not necessarily those who have played cricket will only take the game forward, instead those who are passionate about cricket are the ones to take extra yards to make this sport a success. “From my experience, those who genuinely love cricket often do more for Indian cricket than those who have played it. This might be surprising, but people who are passionate about the game, even if they haven’t played at the highest level, tend to contribute more effectively when guided properly. Conversely, some former players sometimes remain fixated on their era, resisting changes that benefit the current generation,” Gavaskar said. “So, I believe that while former cricketers are invaluable for addressing technical issues—like game rules and improving the Ranji Trophy’s competitiveness—the administration and financial management should be left to the experts,” he continued. (With inputs from agencies)

Political agendas stop people from praising Jay Shah as BCCI administrator, says Sunil Gavaskar

After Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) demolished Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), by eight wickets in Qualifier 1 of IPL 2024 on Tuesday (May 21), the two-time winners became the first side to enter this year's final. On Wednesday (May 22), Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) will lock horns with Rajasthan Royals (RR) in the Eliminator.&nbsp;Ahead of the do-or-die clash, former Indian opener Sunil Gavaskar gave his bold verdict that RCB will run past RR.

RR, under Sanju Samson, had a fabulous start to the season, winning eight of their first nine games. However, they lost four on the trot and their last league fixture got abandoned without a ball being bowled due to rain. On the other hand, RCB were at the bottom at the halfway stage but won six straight games to enter the playoffs. Thus, Gavaskar has backed in-form RCB to go past RR at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad; the same venue which hosted Qualifier 1.

<h2>'I will be surprised if RCB&nbsp;does not walk all over RR'</h2>

On Star Sports, Gavaskar said, "Rajasthan they have lost four-five matches. They have not played their last game as well. They have been out of practice. Unless they do something special that KKR did today, despite not playing for 11 days, it could well turn out be another one-sided game tomorrow. My fear is it will be another one sided game tomorrow, where the RCB will walk all over RR. I will be surprised if that does not happen."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/my-main-priority-jos-buttler-issues-clarification-after-leaving-ipl-midway-for-england-724133">'My main priority...': Jos Buttler issues clarification after leaving IPL midway for England</a>

He further lauded Faf du Plessis-led RCB for an inspiring turnaround. The Bengaluru unit rode on Faf, Kohli and Rajat Patidar's consistency at the top, played fearless cricket and improved their bowling (courtesy of a more settled line-up) to enter the playoffs.

Thus, Gavaskar added, "What RCB has done is nothing short of phenomenal. Firstly, to believe that they can bounce back. That requires something special. You have to say that their leading players Faf du Plessis, Virat KOhli, their senior players, they are the guys who are most encouraging the other players. Other team members can quickly get into a situation like , 'Oh we have lost everything'. Both of them have played extraordinary cricket."

The pressure will be on one-time winners RR as they should not have reached a stage where they are playing the Eliminator, after topping the league stage for majority of period. Thus, the Sanju Samson-led side have their task cut-out to stop a rampant and fearless RCB in Ahmedabad on Wednesday evening.

The winner will play SRH in Qualifier 2, in Chennai on Friday (May 24). Qualifier 2 winner will meet KKR in the IPL 2024 final on Sunday (May 26) in Chennai.

After Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) demolished Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), by eight wickets in Qualifier 1 of IPL 2024 on Tuesday (May 21), the two-time winners became the first side to enter this year's final.

After Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) demolished Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), by eight wickets in Qualifier 1 of IPL 2024 on Tuesday (May 21), the two-time winners became the first side to enter this year's final. On Wednesday (May 22), Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) will lock horns with Rajasthan Royals (RR) in the Eliminator. Ahead of the do-or-die clash, former Indian opener Sunil Gavaskar gave his bold verdict that RCB will run past RR. RR, under Sanju Samson, had a fabulous start to the season, winning eight of their first nine games. However, they lost four on the trot and their last league fixture got abandoned without a ball being bowled due to rain. On the other hand, RCB were at the bottom at the halfway stage but won six straight games to enter the playoffs. Thus, Gavaskar has backed in-form RCB to go past RR at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad; the same venue which hosted Qualifier 1. 'I will be surprised if RCB does not walk all over RR' On Star Sports, Gavaskar said, "Rajasthan they have lost four-five matches. They have not played their last game as well. They have been out of practice. Unless they do something special that KKR did today, despite not playing for 11 days, it could well turn out be another one-sided game tomorrow. My fear is it will be another one sided game tomorrow, where the RCB will walk all over RR. I will be surprised if that does not happen." Also read: 'My main priority...': Jos Buttler issues clarification after leaving IPL midway for England He further lauded Faf du Plessis-led RCB for an inspiring turnaround. The Bengaluru unit rode on Faf, Kohli and Rajat Patidar's consistency at the top, played fearless cricket and improved their bowling (courtesy of a more settled line-up) to enter the playoffs. Thus, Gavaskar added, "What RCB has done is nothing short of phenomenal. Firstly, to believe that they can bounce back. That requires something special. You have to say that their leading players Faf du Plessis, Virat KOhli, their senior players, they are the guys who are most encouraging the other players. Other team members can quickly get into a situation like , 'Oh we have lost everything'. Both of them have played extraordinary cricket." The pressure will be on one-time winners RR as they should not have reached a stage where they are playing the Eliminator, after topping the league stage for majority of period. Thus, the Sanju Samson-led side have their task cut-out to stop a rampant and fearless RCB in Ahmedabad on Wednesday evening. The winner will play SRH in Qualifier 2, in Chennai on Friday (May 24). Qualifier 2 winner will meet KKR in the IPL 2024 final on Sunday (May 26) in Chennai.

IPL 2024: 'RCB will walk all over RR' - Sunil Gavaskar's BOLD claim ahead of Eliminator

Former India captain and batting great Sunil Gavaskar has called for a substantial pay cut in the salaries of overseas players for cutting short their IPL campaign for national duties or whatever reasons.

Former India captain and batting great Sunil Gavaskar has called for a substantial pay cut in the salaries of overseas players for cutting short their IPL campaign for national duties or whatever reasons. The cricketer-turned-broadcaster said he’s all up for players choosing their countries over franchise-based tournaments; however, despite assuring their respective franchises of their availability for the whole season, pulling out last minute should come with a cost. Gavaskar’s comments have come after the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) announced that 2024 T20 World Cup-bound players playing in IPL 2024 will miss the knockout matches to remain available for selection for the home T20I series against Pakistan. While IPL 2024 playoffs begin on May 21, the first of the four T20Is between England and Pakistan will get underway on May 22 in Leeds. Considering only four teams will make the playoffs, the English players in all those potential ones, including Jos Buttler (Rajasthan Royals), Phil Salt (Kolkata Knight Riders) and Moeen Ali (Chennai Super Kings), among others, will miss the knockout matches, having performed and contributed to their team’s success till here. ALSO READ: BCCI proposes changes in Ranji Trophy schedule to avoid weather disruption, players’ exertion Writing for Mid-day, Gavaskar said overseas players should be penalised for breaching whole-season commitment to their respective teams. “I am all for players choosing country before anything else, but having assured various franchises about their availability for the full season, if they pull out now, it will be letting down the franchises which probably pay them more money in one IPL season, which they don’t earn in a few seasons with their country,” Gavaskar wrote in his column for Mid-day. “The franchises should not only be allowed to deduct a substantial amount from the fee that the player was bought for but also not give the Board, to which the player belongs, the stated 10 per cent commission of the fee that each player gets,” the former India captain noted. Everyone’s gearing up for T20 World Cup The showpiece event will take place in the Caribbean and the USA starting June 1, with 20 teams participating. The format is such that five teams are drawn into four groups each, with the top two teams from each group moving forward in the Super Eight stage. While the Asian giants – India and Pakistan are placed in Group A, with their marquee match scheduled to take place in New York on June 9, defending champions England is placed in Group B alongside nemesis Australia. Though three chosen venues in the USA will co-host the league stage matches with the Caribbean, the knockouts, including the semis and the final, will take place in the West Indies.

Sunil Gavaskar calls for ‘substantial’ pay cut for overseas players for leaving IPL midway

Veteran batter Sunil Gavaskar comes down hard on Virat Kohli for disregarding cricket pundits and experts with his ‘outside noise’ remarks. Kohli was instrumental in helping RCB complete a double over GT the other night at home this season but had to face wrath for replying to commentators and experts questioning his T20 strike rate.

Veteran batter Sunil Gavaskar comes down hard on Virat Kohli for disregarding cricket pundits and experts with his ‘outside noise’ remarks. Kohli was instrumental in helping RCB complete a double over GT the other night at home this season but had to face wrath for replying to commentators and experts questioning his T20 strike rate. Following RCB’s nine-wicket win over last year’s finalist in an away clash earlier, Kohli said all that matters to him is winning the game for his team, adding he wonders if all those who question his T20 strike rate have ever been in his shoes. The former RCB captain continued by saying that all the ‘outside noise’ doesn’t bother him anymore as he and those playing know what it’s like to be out there in the middle. ALSO READ: IPL 2024: Faf du Plessis runs riot for RCB with rapid fire 63-run knock against GT - WATCH “For me, it's about winning the games for the team, and there's a reason why you've done it for 15 years; you've done this day in and day out, and you've won games for your teams. I'm not quite sure that if you haven't been in that situation yourself, to sit and talk about the game in the box," Kohli said after helping RCB win against GT in Ahmedabad. Gavaskar bashes India star Replying to Kohli’s remarks, Gavaskar said if he’s not that concerned, why is he even replying? The former India captain added that he is unsure of what other experts have to say about Kohli’s ‘questionable’ T20 strike rate; for as long as he is concerned, Gavaskar would question anyone who opens the innings and plays at a strike rate of 118 and then gets out in the 14th or 15th over, leaving his team in a nowhere position. "Commentators questioned only when his strike rate was 118. I'm not too sure. I don't watch too many matches, so I don't know what the other commentators have said otherwise. But if you come and open and then have a strike of 118 when you get out in the 14th or the 15th over, I mean, if you want applause for that, that's a little bit different. That's different," said Gavaskar on Star Sports. Gavaskar continued by saying as experts and as someone who has played the game, they know what they are talking about. He added that experts don’t have agendas and say what they see. "All these guys talk about, 'Oh we don't care about outside noise'. Then why are you replying to any outside noise or whatever it is? We all played a bit of cricket, not a lot of cricket. We don't have agendas. We speak about what we see. We don't necessarily have any likes and dislikes. Even if we have likes and dislikes, we actually speak on what is happening," Gavaskar continued. “For you to show the person belittling your own commentators, I'm not sure that's a great thing. You need to realise you have shown it enough times, everybody's got the message. I would be very disappointed if you show it once more,” he concluded.

IPL 2024: Gavaskar bashes Kohli over ‘outside noise’ remarks - ‘We don’t have agendas, we speak what we see’

On Tuesday (April 30), the BCCI selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, announced India's 15-man squad for the 2024 T20 World Cup, in the West Indies and USA. Rohit Sharma will lead India in the upcoming edition, with Hardik Pandya returning to the national side as the vice-captain. Meanwhile, the squad also saw the inclusion of Shivam Dube, Rishabh Pant and Sanju Samson whereas four of them were named as reserves. Former Indian opener-turned-commentator Sunil Gavaskar shared his views on the provisional squad and feels T Natarajan, playing for the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in IPL 2024, should have been added.

Natarajan has been part of the Pat Cummins-led SRH franchise in the ongoing IPL season. He has been an integral part of the lineup, nailing his yorkers and maintaining&nbsp;stringent lines in&nbsp;death overs. Natarajan has picked 13 wickets at an average of 19.38 and a strike rate of 12.92. Although he has been a bit expensive, with an economy of 9, he has bowled the tough overs in the end. Thus, Gavaskar feels Natarajan should have been part of the 15-man squad, which comprises reserve players such as Avesh Khan and Khaleel Ahmed.&nbsp;

<h2>'T Natarajan&nbsp;has been bowling extremely well'</h2>

While talking to India Today, Gavaskar said, "I was thinking more like T Natarajan, the left-arm pacer bowler. He has been bowling extremely well. So, I thought maybe he could have been in the team. But that's okay. I think the seam bowlers that they have got, they all have experience. So no problem with that."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/10-steps-back-fans-furious-post-indias-t20-world-cup-squad-announced-by-bcci-716690">‘10 steps back’: Fans furious post India’s T20 World Cup squad announcement by BCCI</a>

Notably, India will enter the T20 WC with four spinners (Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja, Yuzvendra Chahal, and Kuldeep Yadav) and just three specialist pacers. However,&nbsp;Gavaskar believes that all-rounder Hardik Pandya&nbsp;will serve as the fourth-seam bowling option for the one-time winners.

Gavaskar said, "Well, there is Hardik Pandya to bowl as well as the fourth seam bowler, so maybe that's the reason they've (selectors) gone with four spin bowlers. The pitches in the West Indies... there'll be a little more help for the spinners than for the quick bowlers. As we have seen in the IPL, the slower the deliveries, the harder it is for the batters to hit and that's perhaps the reason why they have gone with extra spinner."

Gavaskar highlighted that a change in 'attitude' and 'approach'&nbsp;could ensure the Rohit-led team's success in the upcoming edition and help them end their trophy hunt since 2013. He added, "There have been changes in attitude, changes in approach, which we saw in the 50-over World Cup (last year in India), and that augurs well for this (T20) World Cup as well."

India Squad for T20 World Cup

Rohit Sharma (c), Yashashvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav,&nbsp;Rishabh Pant (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Hardik Pandya (vc), Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal,&nbsp;Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj.

Reserves:&nbsp;Shubman Gill, Rinku Singh, Khaleel Ahmed, Avesh Khan

On Tuesday (April 30), the BCCI selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, announced India's 15-man squad for the 2024 T20 World Cup, in the West Indies and USA. Rohit Sharma will lead India in the upcoming edition, with Hardik Pandya returning to the national side as the vice-captain.

On Tuesday (April 30), the BCCI selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, announced India's 15-man squad for the 2024 T20 World Cup, in the West Indies and USA. Rohit Sharma will lead India in the upcoming edition, with Hardik Pandya returning to the national side as the vice-captain. Meanwhile, the squad also saw the inclusion of Shivam Dube, Rishabh Pant and Sanju Samson whereas four of them were named as reserves. Former Indian opener-turned-commentator Sunil Gavaskar shared his views on the provisional squad and feels T Natarajan, playing for the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in IPL 2024, should have been added. Natarajan has been part of the Pat Cummins-led SRH franchise in the ongoing IPL season. He has been an integral part of the lineup, nailing his yorkers and maintaining stringent lines in death overs. Natarajan has picked 13 wickets at an average of 19.38 and a strike rate of 12.92. Although he has been a bit expensive, with an economy of 9, he has bowled the tough overs in the end. Thus, Gavaskar feels Natarajan should have been part of the 15-man squad, which comprises reserve players such as Avesh Khan and Khaleel Ahmed. 'T Natarajan has been bowling extremely well' While talking to India Today, Gavaskar said, "I was thinking more like T Natarajan, the left-arm pacer bowler. He has been bowling extremely well. So, I thought maybe he could have been in the team. But that's okay. I think the seam bowlers that they have got, they all have experience. So no problem with that." Also read: ‘10 steps back’: Fans furious post India’s T20 World Cup squad announcement by BCCI Notably, India will enter the T20 WC with four spinners (Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja, Yuzvendra Chahal, and Kuldeep Yadav) and just three specialist pacers. However, Gavaskar believes that all-rounder Hardik Pandya will serve as the fourth-seam bowling option for the one-time winners. Gavaskar said, "Well, there is Hardik Pandya to bowl as well as the fourth seam bowler, so maybe that's the reason they've (selectors) gone with four spin bowlers. The pitches in the West Indies... there'll be a little more help for the spinners than for the quick bowlers. As we have seen in the IPL, the slower the deliveries, the harder it is for the batters to hit and that's perhaps the reason why they have gone with extra spinner." Gavaskar highlighted that a change in 'attitude' and 'approach' could ensure the Rohit-led team's success in the upcoming edition and help them end their trophy hunt since 2013. He added, "There have been changes in attitude, changes in approach, which we saw in the 50-over World Cup (last year in India), and that augurs well for this (T20) World Cup as well." India Squad for T20 World Cup Rohit Sharma (c), Yashashvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Hardik Pandya (vc), Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj. Reserves: Shubman Gill, Rinku Singh, Khaleel Ahmed, Avesh Khan

T20 World Cup: Sunil Gavaskar names THIS India pacer who should have been in Men in Blue's squad

Former India skipper Sunil Gavaskar praised the hundred scored by Yashasvi Jaiswal for Rajasthan Royals against Mumbai Indians on April 22 in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024, but with a caveat. Gavaskar, who himself hails from Mumbai just like Jaiswal, asked the young batter why he has to score a hundred against MI and not other teams.&nbsp;

"This is your second century against the Mumbai Indians. And you're a Mumbai boy. What is it that is making you score these hundreds against them? Can't you score these hundreds against others?" Gavaskar asked Jaiswal after the match.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2024-should-be-changed-or-delhi-capitals-players-hit-out-at-impact-player-rule-714078">'Should be changed or...,' Delhi Capitals players hit out at Impact Player rule</a>

The young Rajasthan batter replied: "Nothing. It's just that I think am trying to do what I do well. Some days are tough, some days are good. And I was just playing. That's all. I didn't have anything in my mind."

Thanks to the hundred, Jaiswal's first of the season, RR chased the target of 180 with utmost ease with nine wickets in hand. Jaiswal remained unbeaten on 104 off just 60 balls.

The season has been extremely good for Royals who are at the top of the points table with just one loss and seven wins in eight games. All of their batters, namely Jos Buttler, Sanju Samson, Riyan Parag and now Jaiswal have been among the runs.&nbsp;

They have been complemented well by their bowlers as well, especially Yuzvendra Chahal, who leads the wicket-taking chart or Purple Cap leaderboard this season. Chahal also became the first bowler in IPL to reach the mark of 200 wickets with 1/48 in four overs against MI.

As for Mumbai, the season has been rather disappointing, as they slumped to their fifth defeat of the season in eight games. MI (six points) along with Delhi Capitals (six points), Punjab Kings (four points), and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (two points) are at the bottom of the 10-team points table. 
&nbsp;

Former India skipper Sunil Gavaskar praised the hundred scored by Yashasvi Jaiswal for Rajasthan Royals against Mumbai Indians on April 22 in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024, but with a caveat.

Former India skipper Sunil Gavaskar praised the hundred scored by Yashasvi Jaiswal for Rajasthan Royals against Mumbai Indians on April 22 in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024, but with a caveat. Gavaskar, who himself hails from Mumbai just like Jaiswal, asked the young batter why he has to score a hundred against MI and not other teams. "This is your second century against the Mumbai Indians. And you're a Mumbai boy. What is it that is making you score these hundreds against them? Can't you score these hundreds against others?" Gavaskar asked Jaiswal after the match. Also Read: 'Should be changed or...,' Delhi Capitals players hit out at Impact Player rule The young Rajasthan batter replied: "Nothing. It's just that I think am trying to do what I do well. Some days are tough, some days are good. And I was just playing. That's all. I didn't have anything in my mind." Thanks to the hundred, Jaiswal's first of the season, RR chased the target of 180 with utmost ease with nine wickets in hand. Jaiswal remained unbeaten on 104 off just 60 balls. The season has been extremely good for Royals who are at the top of the points table with just one loss and seven wins in eight games. All of their batters, namely Jos Buttler, Sanju Samson, Riyan Parag and now Jaiswal have been among the runs. They have been complemented well by their bowlers as well, especially Yuzvendra Chahal, who leads the wicket-taking chart or Purple Cap leaderboard this season. Chahal also became the first bowler in IPL to reach the mark of 200 wickets with 1/48 in four overs against MI. As for Mumbai, the season has been rather disappointing, as they slumped to their fifth defeat of the season in eight games. MI (six points) along with Delhi Capitals (six points), Punjab Kings (four points), and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (two points) are at the bottom of the 10-team points table.

IPL 2024: Sunil Gavaskar GRILLS Rajasthan Royals batter Yashasvi Jaiswal on scoring hundred vs MI | Here's why

Indian cricket legend and renowned commentator Sunil Gavaskar tore into Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s star all-rounder, Glenn Maxwell, for being a flop show this season. The three-time World Cup winner with Australia, Maxwell, has scored just 32 runs from six contested games in IPL 2024, with his best being 28. Maxwell has struggled against pace bowling this season, and Gavaskar pointed out the same ahead of RCB’s home game against SunRisers Hyderabad on Monday (April 15).

With just one win and five losses in six matches, RCB is struggling on the points table (on the 10th position). Since each of the remaining matches are like do-or-die ones, RCB must make amends to their XI before it gets late this season.

Speaking on Star Sports, Gavaskar said bouncing balls or the ones coming onto his chest area height will trouble Maxwell, and by now, each team has made a note of it, further causing trouble for the underfire batter and the franchise.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-lara-outlines-loophole-in-mumbai-indians-bowling-says-they-have-to-find-someone-to-support-bumrah-711535">IPL 2024: Lara outlines loophole in Mumbai Indians’ bowling, says they have to find someone to support Bumrah</a>

“He has been unable to play fast bowling, period. Balls bouncing to his chest or shoulder height are troubling him. He can whack every ball below his waist height but not the ones above that,” Gavaskar said of Maxwell.

Not barring other overseas or highly-paid players, Gavaskar said some of the top names besides Maxwell have also struggled to get going. He, however, noted that on the surfaces where the bounce would be low, Maxwell will be among runs.&nbsp;

“And it’s not just Maxwell. Several big-ticket players are finding it difficult to read bowling. So, when he gets out in the match, the balls that remain low, he will score against them,” he added.

<h2>RCB must win against SRH</h2>

Taking on one of the top teams this season – the SunRisers Hyderabad, at home, the RCB must find a way to beat them and return to winning ways.

Though their run of form in Bengaluru this time has been poor, the hosts will hope for a better outing from the star-studded squad to bag two points.&nbsp;

Considering Maxwell’s poor run, RCB might bring in Cameron Green for him, a risk worth taking for.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, with Virat in top-notch form, RCB has managed to put up runs on the board, though the missing x-factor in the bowling attack couldn’t help the cause.&nbsp;

Indian cricket legend and renowned commentator Sunil Gavaskar tore into Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s star all-rounder, Glenn Maxwell, for being a flop show this season.

Indian cricket legend and renowned commentator Sunil Gavaskar tore into Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s star all-rounder, Glenn Maxwell, for being a flop show this season. The three-time World Cup winner with Australia, Maxwell, has scored just 32 runs from six contested games in IPL 2024, with his best being 28. Maxwell has struggled against pace bowling this season, and Gavaskar pointed out the same ahead of RCB’s home game against SunRisers Hyderabad on Monday (April 15). With just one win and five losses in six matches, RCB is struggling on the points table (on the 10th position). Since each of the remaining matches are like do-or-die ones, RCB must make amends to their XI before it gets late this season. Speaking on Star Sports, Gavaskar said bouncing balls or the ones coming onto his chest area height will trouble Maxwell, and by now, each team has made a note of it, further causing trouble for the underfire batter and the franchise. ALSO READ: IPL 2024: Lara outlines loophole in Mumbai Indians’ bowling, says they have to find someone to support Bumrah “He has been unable to play fast bowling, period. Balls bouncing to his chest or shoulder height are troubling him. He can whack every ball below his waist height but not the ones above that,” Gavaskar said of Maxwell. Not barring other overseas or highly-paid players, Gavaskar said some of the top names besides Maxwell have also struggled to get going. He, however, noted that on the surfaces where the bounce would be low, Maxwell will be among runs. “And it’s not just Maxwell. Several big-ticket players are finding it difficult to read bowling. So, when he gets out in the match, the balls that remain low, he will score against them,” he added. RCB must win against SRH Taking on one of the top teams this season – the SunRisers Hyderabad, at home, the RCB must find a way to beat them and return to winning ways. Though their run of form in Bengaluru this time has been poor, the hosts will hope for a better outing from the star-studded squad to bag two points. Considering Maxwell’s poor run, RCB might bring in Cameron Green for him, a risk worth taking for. Meanwhile, with Virat in top-notch form, RCB has managed to put up runs on the board, though the missing x-factor in the bowling attack couldn’t help the cause.

IPL 2024: 'He's unable to play fast bowling' - Sunil Gavaskar tears into RCB legend for poor showing

Riyan Parag's 48-ball 76 went in vain as Rajasthan Royals (RR) lost their first game of IPL 2024 when they hosted Gujarat Titans (GT) in match 24 on Wednesday (April 10) at the Sawai Man Singh Stadium, Jaipur. With RR making 196-3, along with skipper Sanju Samson also being unbeaten on 68&nbsp;(38), Shubman Gill-led Gujarat chased down the score on the final ball with Rashid Khan's 11-ball 24* providing the finishing touch after their captain's sublime 72.

Nonetheless, Parag continued his good form in the ongoing edition. He has already registered three fifty-plus scores in IPL 2024 and is second on the Orange Cap list, after Royal Challengers Bengaluru's (RCB) Virat Kohli -- who tops the list with 316 runs. Thus, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Sunil Gavaskar lavished huge praise on Parag and urged him to continue his purple patch as an India call-up might not be far away. The youngster, from Assam, is coming into this year's IPL on the back of a brilliant run in domestic cricket.

Gavaskar told Star Sports after RR lost to GT, "Riyan Parag made Gujarat pay for those lapses. That's what cricket is all about. You get an opportunity and you make the most of it. And he has made the most of it. He is playing some unbelievable cricket."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-watch-when-gujarat-is-playing-never-gills-one-liner-goes-viral-after-gt-edge-past-rr-709973">IPL 2024: WATCH | 'When Gujarat is playing, never...' - Gill's one-liner goes viral after GT edge past RR</a>

<h2>'He is someone that the selection committee has got an eye on'</h2>

He added, "Not just in the IPL, but right through the season, he has had enormous success. He is someone that the selection committee has got an eye on. And so all he needs to do is keep on batting the way he has been. His fielding, we all know about it, he is an excellent fielder. And he can bowl a few of those dribbly-dobblies, I call them mixed pakodas."

Parag has 261 runs from five games in IPL 2024. He has been RR's crisis man this season, showing a lot of maturity while batting in different situations. It is to be noted that since&nbsp;his IPL debut in 2019, the Assam star made only 2 fifties across 5 seasons. However, the 2024 IPL season is proving to be a career-defying one for the Assamese youngster and he will be eager to continue in a similar stead in the upcoming games.

Riyan Parag's 48-ball 76 went in vain as Rajasthan Royals (RR) lost their first game of IPL 2024 when they hosted Gujarat Titans (GT) in match 24 on Wednesday (April 10) at the Sawai Man Singh Stadium, Jaipur.

Riyan Parag's 48-ball 76 went in vain as Rajasthan Royals (RR) lost their first game of IPL 2024 when they hosted Gujarat Titans (GT) in match 24 on Wednesday (April 10) at the Sawai Man Singh Stadium, Jaipur. With RR making 196-3, along with skipper Sanju Samson also being unbeaten on 68 (38), Shubman Gill-led Gujarat chased down the score on the final ball with Rashid Khan's 11-ball 24* providing the finishing touch after their captain's sublime 72. Nonetheless, Parag continued his good form in the ongoing edition. He has already registered three fifty-plus scores in IPL 2024 and is second on the Orange Cap list, after Royal Challengers Bengaluru's (RCB) Virat Kohli -- who tops the list with 316 runs. Thus, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Sunil Gavaskar lavished huge praise on Parag and urged him to continue his purple patch as an India call-up might not be far away. The youngster, from Assam, is coming into this year's IPL on the back of a brilliant run in domestic cricket. Gavaskar told Star Sports after RR lost to GT, "Riyan Parag made Gujarat pay for those lapses. That's what cricket is all about. You get an opportunity and you make the most of it. And he has made the most of it. He is playing some unbelievable cricket." Also read: IPL 2024: WATCH | 'When Gujarat is playing, never...' - Gill's one-liner goes viral after GT edge past RR 'He is someone that the selection committee has got an eye on' He added, "Not just in the IPL, but right through the season, he has had enormous success. He is someone that the selection committee has got an eye on. And so all he needs to do is keep on batting the way he has been. His fielding, we all know about it, he is an excellent fielder. And he can bowl a few of those dribbly-dobblies, I call them mixed pakodas." Parag has 261 runs from five games in IPL 2024. He has been RR's crisis man this season, showing a lot of maturity while batting in different situations. It is to be noted that since his IPL debut in 2019, the Assam star made only 2 fifties across 5 seasons. However, the 2024 IPL season is proving to be a career-defying one for the Assamese youngster and he will be eager to continue in a similar stead in the upcoming games.

IPL 2024: BCCI selectors keeping an eye on 'unbelievable' Riyan Parag, feels former Indian opener Gavaskar

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