The Day 2 of the ongoing third Test between Australia and India at the Sydney Cricket Ground witnessed some breathtaking display of cricket from both the sides. While Australia, batting first, got to a great position after a fine century from talisman Steve Smith, Indians bounced back strong with a solid opening partnership between Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill as they day ended in balance. &nbsp;

Australia started the day strongly as Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith continued their partnership with some great display of batting. While Labuschagne was unfortunate to miss out on his fifth Test century as he was dismissed for 91 by Ravindra Jadeja, Smith went on to register his 27th Test century. &nbsp;

Smith was the last Australian player to be dismissed, after a spellbinding direct hit from the deep by Ravindra Jadeja, as the former Aussie skipper watches wickets tumble from the other end before getting out. Australia ended up with 338 runs on board.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-becomes-first-player-to-smash-100-international-sixes-against-australia-355335" hreflang="en">Rohit Sharma becomes first player to smash 100 international sixes against Australia</a>

For India, Ravindra Jadeja picked up four wickets while Jasprit Bumrah and debutant Navdeep Saini scalped two each. Mohammed Siraj ended up with a wicket under his belt.&nbsp;

Indian openers Rohit and Gill had a fine start as they stitched a crucial partnership of 70 runs off 27 overs before Rohit pushed a fuller delivery by Hazlewood too hard as the Aussie bowler took a sharp catch off his own bowling. Gill departed soon after completing his maiden half-century in international cricket. &nbsp;

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At the end of Day 2, veteran batsmen Ajinkya Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara were at the crease for India and would be looking to score big in what has been a batting-friendly track at the Sydney Cricket Ground. &nbsp;

The Day 2 of the ongoing third Test between Australia and India at the Sydney Cricket Ground witnessed some breathtaking display of cricket from both the sides. While Australia, batting first, got to a great position after a fine century from talisman Steve Smith, Indians bounced back strong with a solid opening partnership between Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill as they day ended in balance.

The Day 2 of the ongoing third Test between Australia and India at the Sydney Cricket Ground witnessed some breathtaking display of cricket from both the sides. While Australia, batting first, got to a great position after a fine century from talisman Steve Smith, Indians bounced back strong with a solid opening partnership between Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill as they day ended in balance. Australia started the day strongly as Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith continued their partnership with some great display of batting. While Labuschagne was unfortunate to miss out on his fifth Test century as he was dismissed for 91 by Ravindra Jadeja, Smith went on to register his 27th Test century. Smith was the last Australian player to be dismissed, after a spellbinding direct hit from the deep by Ravindra Jadeja, as the former Aussie skipper watches wickets tumble from the other end before getting out. Australia ended up with 338 runs on board. ALSO READ: Rohit Sharma becomes first player to smash 100 international sixes against Australia For India, Ravindra Jadeja picked up four wickets while Jasprit Bumrah and debutant Navdeep Saini scalped two each. Mohammed Siraj ended up with a wicket under his belt. Indian openers Rohit and Gill had a fine start as they stitched a crucial partnership of 70 runs off 27 overs before Rohit pushed a fuller delivery by Hazlewood too hard as the Aussie bowler took a sharp catch off his own bowling. Gill departed soon after completing his maiden half-century in international cricket. ALSO READ: Bairstow hails Kallis as 'fantastic addition' for England At the end of Day 2, veteran batsmen Ajinkya Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara were at the crease for India and would be looking to score big in what has been a batting-friendly track at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

Sydney Test: Smith's 27th Test ton, Gill's class steal thunders as Day 2 ends in balance

Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj on Thursday got emotional and teary-eyed when the Indian national anthem was being played at the Sydney Cricket Ground before the start of third Test’s play. Siraj, who made his Test debut in the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne, was seen wiping his tears rolling down his face. Whereas Jasprit Bumrah was seen trying to lighten him up in what was a heartfelt moment. &nbsp;

Siraj, who lost his father around a week after Team India landed in Australia for the gruelling tour, has had a brilliant start to his Test career as he picked up five wickets in his debut match. And on Day 1 of the Sydney Test, Siraj dismissed star opener, David Warner, for cheap as he forced the Aussie opener to edge one to Cheteshwar Pujara in the slip cordon.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-have-to-look-at-his-record-tom-moody-on-steve-smith-bouncing-back-in-form-354910" hreflang="en">'You have to look at his record': Tom Moody on Steve Smith bouncing back in form</a>

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Playing a Test match is the pinnacle of this sport... 
 
Mohammed Siraj had to wipe away tears during the national anthem 🇮🇳<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/J5z1FHDtmp">pic.twitter.com/J5z1FHDtmp</a>
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Mohammad Siraj wiping tears away during the national anthem ❤<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/Az78qumI6L">pic.twitter.com/Az78qumI6L</a>
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Siraj is living his Dream. Took a wicket like Warner in different circumstances is not an easy task.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvsIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvsIND</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/siraj?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#siraj</a> <a href="https://t.co/6deNEV4ONO">pic.twitter.com/6deNEV4ONO</a>
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Mohammed Siraj In Tears While Singing Indian National Anthem <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/mohammadsiraj?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#mohammadsiraj</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianCricketTeam?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianCricketTeam</a> <a href="https://t.co/xgJihOsI8k">pic.twitter.com/xgJihOsI8k</a> <a href="https://t.co/MMozz09VPA">pic.twitter.com/MMozz09VPA</a>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohlis-captaincy-feats-against-australia-unlikely-to-be-emulated-soon-ravi-shastri-354856" hreflang="en">Virat Kohli's captaincy feats against Australia unlikely to be emulated soon: Ravi Shastri</a>

With his superb debut, Siraj became the first Indian debutant to pick five wickets in a Test match as he ended with a match haul of five wickets for 77 runs.&nbsp;

Mohammed Shami was the last Indian bowler to pick at least five wickets in Test debut in November 2013. Shami achieved the feat against West Indies in Kolkata.&nbsp;

This is not the first time Siraj got emotional during the Indian national anthem while representing India. Siraj was also seen getting emotional when he made his T20I debut for India against New Zealand in Rajkot in the year 2017. Siraj replaced Ashish Nehra in the playing XI and the youngster was seen wiping off his tears at the end of the national anthem.&nbsp;

Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj on Thursday got emotional and teary-eyed when the Indian national anthem was being played at the Sydney Cricket Ground before the start of third Test’s play.

Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj on Thursday got emotional and teary-eyed when the Indian national anthem was being played at the Sydney Cricket Ground before the start of third Test’s play. Siraj, who made his Test debut in the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne, was seen wiping his tears rolling down his face. Whereas Jasprit Bumrah was seen trying to lighten him up in what was a heartfelt moment. Siraj, who lost his father around a week after Team India landed in Australia for the gruelling tour, has had a brilliant start to his Test career as he picked up five wickets in his debut match. And on Day 1 of the Sydney Test, Siraj dismissed star opener, David Warner, for cheap as he forced the Aussie opener to edge one to Cheteshwar Pujara in the slip cordon. ALSO READ: 'You have to look at his record': Tom Moody on Steve Smith bouncing back in form Playing a Test match is the pinnacle of this sport... Mohammed Siraj had to wipe away tears during the national anthem 🇮🇳#AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/J5z1FHDtmp — Cricket on BT Sport (@btsportcricket) January 6, 2021 × Mohammad Siraj wiping tears away during the national anthem ❤#AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/Az78qumI6L — Wisden India (@WisdenIndia) January 7, 2021 × Siraj is living his Dream. Took a wicket like Warner in different circumstances is not an easy task.#AUSvsIND #siraj pic.twitter.com/6deNEV4ONO — Sujal Jaiswal (@sujal_jaiswal16) January 7, 2021 × Mohammed Siraj In Tears While Singing Indian National Anthem #AUSvIND #mohammadsiraj #TeamIndia #IndianCricketTeam pic.twitter.com/xgJihOsI8k pic.twitter.com/MMozz09VPA — iamfarhanqkhan007 (@iamfrhanqkhan21) January 7, 2021 × ALSO READ: Virat Kohli's captaincy feats against Australia unlikely to be emulated soon: Ravi Shastri With his superb debut, Siraj became the first Indian debutant to pick five wickets in a Test match as he ended with a match haul of five wickets for 77 runs. Mohammed Shami was the last Indian bowler to pick at least five wickets in Test debut in November 2013. Shami achieved the feat against West Indies in Kolkata. This is not the first time Siraj got emotional during the Indian national anthem while representing India. Siraj was also seen getting emotional when he made his T20I debut for India against New Zealand in Rajkot in the year 2017. Siraj replaced Ashish Nehra in the playing XI and the youngster was seen wiping off his tears at the end of the national anthem.

Watch: Mohammed Siraj gets teary-eyed during national anthem before Sydney Test

Indian captain Ajinkya Rahane on Wednesday tried to play down the quarantine controversy as he stated that Indian contingent is "not annoyed" with the stringent bio-secure protocols but accepted that it was "challenging" to be confined to their hotel when life outside seems to be "normal".&nbsp;

There have been reports that the Indian team has been unhappy with quarantine protocols in Sydney, where they have been confined to the hotel with stricter rules set to follow ahead of the fourth Test in Brisbane.&nbsp;

"We are not at all annoyed but yes there are some challenges in quarantine as life in Sydney is completely normal. We are not at all annoyed and we know what's our priority here," the Indian captain made it clear while fielding a series of questions on the eve of the third Test on Wednesday.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-announce-playing-xi-for-sydney-test-vs-australia-rohit-sharma-navdeep-saini-start-354769" hreflang="en">India announce playing XI for Sydney Test vs Australia; Rohit Sharma, Navdeep Saini start</a>

There have been unconfirmed reports that Indian team is trying to pull out of Brisbane Test and make the last match of the series played at the Sydney Cricket Ground as well. However, Rahane said that as players, they are focused on the game and the BCCI and team management will take a call on the venue of the fourth and final Test.

"We all are prepared and we want to play some good cricket. We know that life in Sydney is normal but players are stuck in their rooms which is okay. We know how to handle it and we are prepared for any kind of situation.&nbsp;

"It's about being in the moment and playing some good cricket," said India's hero of eight-wicket victory in Melbourne.&nbsp;

ÁLSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-india-boxing-day-test-declared-possible-covid-hotspot-354763" hreflang="en">Australia-India Boxing Day Test declared possible Covid hotspot</a>

"First thing first, we are not complaining about anything and we are just focussed on the game. Just want to start well.

"We as players are just focussing on this Test match and management, they will take the decision. For us, it's all about giving our best on the field. Test match is starting tomorrow and we want to do well as a team and win the Test match," said the non-controversial team leader.&nbsp;

According to reports, the BCCI and CA are in discussion on possible relaxation of quarantine protocols players can get in Queensland. A call on the fourth Test is likely to be taken during the Sydney Test, starting from January 7.

Indian captain Ajinkya Rahane on Wednesday tried to play down the quarantine controversy as he stated that Indian contingent is "not annoyed" with the stringent bio-secure protocols but accepted that it was "challenging" to be confined to their hotel when life outside seems to be "normal".

Indian captain Ajinkya Rahane on Wednesday tried to play down the quarantine controversy as he stated that Indian contingent is "not annoyed" with the stringent bio-secure protocols but accepted that it was "challenging" to be confined to their hotel when life outside seems to be "normal". There have been reports that the Indian team has been unhappy with quarantine protocols in Sydney, where they have been confined to the hotel with stricter rules set to follow ahead of the fourth Test in Brisbane. "We are not at all annoyed but yes there are some challenges in quarantine as life in Sydney is completely normal. We are not at all annoyed and we know what's our priority here," the Indian captain made it clear while fielding a series of questions on the eve of the third Test on Wednesday. ALSO READ: India announce playing XI for Sydney Test vs Australia; Rohit Sharma, Navdeep Saini start There have been unconfirmed reports that Indian team is trying to pull out of Brisbane Test and make the last match of the series played at the Sydney Cricket Ground as well. However, Rahane said that as players, they are focused on the game and the BCCI and team management will take a call on the venue of the fourth and final Test. "We all are prepared and we want to play some good cricket. We know that life in Sydney is normal but players are stuck in their rooms which is okay. We know how to handle it and we are prepared for any kind of situation. "It's about being in the moment and playing some good cricket," said India's hero of eight-wicket victory in Melbourne. ÁLSO READ: Australia-India Boxing Day Test declared possible Covid hotspot "First thing first, we are not complaining about anything and we are just focussed on the game. Just want to start well. "We as players are just focussing on this Test match and management, they will take the decision. For us, it's all about giving our best on the field. Test match is starting tomorrow and we want to do well as a team and win the Test match," said the non-controversial team leader. According to reports, the BCCI and CA are in discussion on possible relaxation of quarantine protocols players can get in Queensland. A call on the fourth Test is likely to be taken during the Sydney Test, starting from January 7.

Quarantine is challenging when life in Sydney is normal: India captain Ajinkya Rahane

Australia and India resume their "arm-wrestle" Test series at 1-1 Thursday after a build-up marred by a coronavirus outbreak in Sydney and concerns over a potential biosecurity breach by the Indian team.

The four-Test series is finely poised after India, crushed by eight wickets in Adelaide -- where they fell for their record low of 36 -- emphatically bounced back in Melbourne.

Spearheaded by stand-in skipper Ajinkya Rahane, who is deputising during Virat Kohli's paternity leave, they levelled the series with their own eight-wicket win.

"The first two Tests have been tough cricket, it's 1-1 and that probably shows how close the series is," said Australia coach Justin Langer, describing the series as an "arm-wrestle".

"We are very, very determined to get out of the blocks hard on Thursday."

The series has also been eventful off the field with Sydney, which has raced to contain a new Covid-19 cluster, only confirmed as host of the third Test after the Melbourne game.

The Sydney Cricket Ground has slashed its available capacity from 50 to 25 percent -- about 10,000 fans -- after a public backlash over the potential health risks.

Separately, five Indian players were spotted dining inside a Melbourne restaurant, in apparent contravention of biosecurity protocols.

Australian officials have also played down reports claiming India are not keen on having the final Test in Brisbane, due to stricter quarantine arrangements there.

<h2>- Warner set for return -</h2>

The weather could affect plans for both teams, with showers forecast for Thursday and Friday.

Run-shy Australia are set to make at least one change, with David Warner expected to return after missing the first two Tests with a groin strain, while fellow opener Joe Burns has been dumped.

Warner's opening partner is still unknown. Will Pucovski has been given the all-clear from a concussion and could make his debut, although Marcus Harris is also waiting in the wings.

If either play, Matthew Wade would drop back to number five with Travis Head facing the axe.

"There's loyalty to all our players. And whatever way we go -- the hardest thing is... it's so hard to fit seven or eight into six," said Langer, when asked about Head.

But he stressed his batsmen must start putting more runs on the board, with the team failing to go past 200 during the series.

"We're addressing the issues. I think we got 200 in that second innings (in Melbourne), but any time you're not scoring over 200, you're looking at ways to improve." &nbsp;

<h2>- 'Five good days' -</h2>

After Melbourne, India coach Ravi Shastri hailed the team's turnaround as one of the great comebacks of all time, but the euphoria was short-lived.

Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant, Shubman Gill, Prithvi Shaw and Navdeep Saini were all seen dining in a Melbourne restaurant, in what looked like a biosecurity breach.

But India's cricket board has taken no action so far, and after the entire touring party tested negative for the coronavirus on Sunday, the five seem to be clear to play.

That would see Gill, who was highly impressive on debut in Melbourne, pad up again, while the explosive Pant will once more keep wicket.

Sharma only joined the team last week after a late injury-enforced arrival. But he was immediately made vice-captain, suggesting he too will play, potentially in place of the under-performing Mayank Agarwal.

There will be a new-look attack with Umesh Yadav out of the series after hurting his calf and T. Natarajan called up as a replacement. India were already without injured regulars Mohammed Shami and Ishant Sharma.

Despite this, Shastri said last week they planned to stick with a five-bowler strategy.

He added that the key to their comeback in Melbourne was forgetting what happened in Adelaide, a trait they will take into Sydney.

"To beat a team like Australia, especially in Australia, there is no point having one good day or two good days," he said.

"You have got to have five good days if you have to beat them, as simple as that."

Australia and India resume their "arm-wrestle" Test series at 1-1 Thursday after a build-up marred by a coronavirus outbreak in Sydney and concerns over a potential biosecurity breach by the Indian team.

Australia and India resume their "arm-wrestle" Test series at 1-1 Thursday after a build-up marred by a coronavirus outbreak in Sydney and concerns over a potential biosecurity breach by the Indian team. The four-Test series is finely poised after India, crushed by eight wickets in Adelaide -- where they fell for their record low of 36 -- emphatically bounced back in Melbourne. Spearheaded by stand-in skipper Ajinkya Rahane, who is deputising during Virat Kohli's paternity leave, they levelled the series with their own eight-wicket win. "The first two Tests have been tough cricket, it's 1-1 and that probably shows how close the series is," said Australia coach Justin Langer, describing the series as an "arm-wrestle". "We are very, very determined to get out of the blocks hard on Thursday." The series has also been eventful off the field with Sydney, which has raced to contain a new Covid-19 cluster, only confirmed as host of the third Test after the Melbourne game. The Sydney Cricket Ground has slashed its available capacity from 50 to 25 percent -- about 10,000 fans -- after a public backlash over the potential health risks. Separately, five Indian players were spotted dining inside a Melbourne restaurant, in apparent contravention of biosecurity protocols. Australian officials have also played down reports claiming India are not keen on having the final Test in Brisbane, due to stricter quarantine arrangements there. - Warner set for return - The weather could affect plans for both teams, with showers forecast for Thursday and Friday. Run-shy Australia are set to make at least one change, with David Warner expected to return after missing the first two Tests with a groin strain, while fellow opener Joe Burns has been dumped. Warner's opening partner is still unknown. Will Pucovski has been given the all-clear from a concussion and could make his debut, although Marcus Harris is also waiting in the wings. If either play, Matthew Wade would drop back to number five with Travis Head facing the axe. "There's loyalty to all our players. And whatever way we go -- the hardest thing is... it's so hard to fit seven or eight into six," said Langer, when asked about Head. But he stressed his batsmen must start putting more runs on the board, with the team failing to go past 200 during the series. "We're addressing the issues. I think we got 200 in that second innings (in Melbourne), but any time you're not scoring over 200, you're looking at ways to improve." - 'Five good days' - After Melbourne, India coach Ravi Shastri hailed the team's turnaround as one of the great comebacks of all time, but the euphoria was short-lived. Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant, Shubman Gill, Prithvi Shaw and Navdeep Saini were all seen dining in a Melbourne restaurant, in what looked like a biosecurity breach. But India's cricket board has taken no action so far, and after the entire touring party tested negative for the coronavirus on Sunday, the five seem to be clear to play. That would see Gill, who was highly impressive on debut in Melbourne, pad up again, while the explosive Pant will once more keep wicket. Sharma only joined the team last week after a late injury-enforced arrival. But he was immediately made vice-captain, suggesting he too will play, potentially in place of the under-performing Mayank Agarwal. There will be a new-look attack with Umesh Yadav out of the series after hurting his calf and T. Natarajan called up as a replacement. India were already without injured regulars Mohammed Shami and Ishant Sharma. Despite this, Shastri said last week they planned to stick with a five-bowler strategy. He added that the key to their comeback in Melbourne was forgetting what happened in Adelaide, a trait they will take into Sydney. "To beat a team like Australia, especially in Australia, there is no point having one good day or two good days," he said. "You have got to have five good days if you have to beat them, as simple as that."

Australia, India resume 'arm-wrestle' as Covid dominates Test build-up

Australia coach Justin Langer on Tuesday said David Warner was "very, very, very likely" to play the third Test against India, with Will Pucovski shaping as his opening partner after being given the all-clear from a concussion.

Warner missed the first two Tests with a groin injury, but looks almost certain to return for Thursday's crucial clash in Sydney, with the four-Test series locked at 1-1.

"He looks like he's moving pretty well. He's very determined to play," said Langer. "I'd say he's looking very, very, very likely to play the Test match."

But he added: "He's going to be playing through pain though. It's not so much in the muscle but in the tendon area."

Joe Burns opened with Matthew Wade in the opening two Tests in Adelaide and Melbourne, but after a run of poor scores has been axed.

It opens the door for Pucovski to make his debut after Langer said an independent neurologist had cleared him of any lingering damage after the latest in a series of concussions.

"Will has still got a few boxes to tick today then we weigh up whether this Test match is right, or the next Test match is right. Time will tell," said Langer.

Pucovski, 21, has a long history of being hit on the helmet, and has also dealt with mental health issues.

But Langer said his mind has been put at ease by the neurologists' all-clear on Monday.

"The real heartening thing for him is that while he's had a few concussions in the past ... it's not necessarily going to have any long-term impact on him," he said.&nbsp;

"And I think when you can put your mind at rest with that then that's a real positive for him.

"He's in a great frame of mind, he's incredibly positive about playing cricket, he's trained hard this week and, as he and I have discussed a number of times, the only way to get back on the horse is to get back on the horse," he added.

If Pucovski plays, Wade will almost certainly drop back to his more accustomed number five position with allrounder Cameron Green retained at six.

That would likely see Travis Head dropped.

Australia coach Justin Langer on Tuesday said David Warner was "very, very, very likely" to play the third Test against India, with Will Pucovski shaping as his opening partner after being given the all-clear from a concussion.

Australia coach Justin Langer on Tuesday said David Warner was "very, very, very likely" to play the third Test against India, with Will Pucovski shaping as his opening partner after being given the all-clear from a concussion. Warner missed the first two Tests with a groin injury, but looks almost certain to return for Thursday's crucial clash in Sydney, with the four-Test series locked at 1-1. "He looks like he's moving pretty well. He's very determined to play," said Langer. "I'd say he's looking very, very, very likely to play the Test match." But he added: "He's going to be playing through pain though. It's not so much in the muscle but in the tendon area." Joe Burns opened with Matthew Wade in the opening two Tests in Adelaide and Melbourne, but after a run of poor scores has been axed. It opens the door for Pucovski to make his debut after Langer said an independent neurologist had cleared him of any lingering damage after the latest in a series of concussions. "Will has still got a few boxes to tick today then we weigh up whether this Test match is right, or the next Test match is right. Time will tell," said Langer. Pucovski, 21, has a long history of being hit on the helmet, and has also dealt with mental health issues. But Langer said his mind has been put at ease by the neurologists' all-clear on Monday. "The real heartening thing for him is that while he's had a few concussions in the past ... it's not necessarily going to have any long-term impact on him," he said. "And I think when you can put your mind at rest with that then that's a real positive for him. "He's in a great frame of mind, he's incredibly positive about playing cricket, he's trained hard this week and, as he and I have discussed a number of times, the only way to get back on the horse is to get back on the horse," he added. If Pucovski plays, Wade will almost certainly drop back to his more accustomed number five position with allrounder Cameron Green retained at six. That would likely see Travis Head dropped.

Langer says Warner 'very likely' to play through pain

The Indian cricket team will be looking to end a 42-year wait when they take the field at the Sydney Cricket Ground on January 7 for the third Test against Australia. India's last win in Sydney came back in 1978 when a Bishan Bedi-led side defeated Australia by an innings and two runs. However, since then India have had a long wait to taste victory in Sydney.&nbsp;

Out of 12 matches played in Sydney, India have won only one while losing six. India came agonisingly close of winning the Sydney Test in the 2018/19 tour but was left disappointed by rain gods as they forced a draw.

England, Pakistan and West Indies are the only sides to register more than a win in Sydney against Australia with Pakistan being the only Asian team to win 2 Test matches in Sydney.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-india-resume-arm-wrestle-as-covid-dominates-test-build-up-354543" hreflang="en">Australia, India resume 'arm-wrestle' as Covid dominates Test build-up</a>

<h2>'So close in 2019'</h2>

In 2019, India were on the verge of winning the Sydney Test after Cheteshwar Pujara and Rishabh Pant centuries helped the visitors post a mammoth 622/7 (decl.) before bundling out the hosts for 300. After enforcing the follow on, the last two days of the Sydney Test was rain-marred which also saved the Australians from a humiliation.

<h2>'Win in 1978 unforgettable'</h2>

Whereas talking about the famous win in Sydney back in 1978, Bhagwath Chandrashekhar and Bishan Bedi picked up four and three wickets respectively in the first innings to dismiss Australia for 131 in the first innings.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australians-are-bad-losers-former-india-spinner-tears-apart-hosts-over-bio-bubble-controversy-354405" hreflang="en">'Australians are bad losers' - Former India spinner tears apart hosts over bio-bubble controversy</a>

India posted 396/8 (decl.) after Gundappa Vishwanath played a masterful knock of 79 along with Karsan Ghavri's 64 to bolster the momentum.&nbsp;

Australia, despite half-centuries from Gary Cosier and Peter Tooney couldn't climb the mountainous target and surrendered in front of the Indian bowling attack with Erapalli Prasanna picking four wickets while Ghavri, Bedi and Chandrashekhar scalped two wickets each.&nbsp;

But with the focus completely shifting to the Sydney Test, after a controversy-filled week, India would be hoping to get their long-due win in Sydney.&nbsp;

India vs Australia, Sydney Test is set to commence from January 7. 
&nbsp;

The Indian cricket team will be looking to end a 42-year wait when they take the field at the Sydney Cricket Ground on January 7 for the third Test against Australia.

The Indian cricket team will be looking to end a 42-year wait when they take the field at the Sydney Cricket Ground on January 7 for the third Test against Australia. India's last win in Sydney came back in 1978 when a Bishan Bedi-led side defeated Australia by an innings and two runs. However, since then India have had a long wait to taste victory in Sydney. Out of 12 matches played in Sydney, India have won only one while losing six. India came agonisingly close of winning the Sydney Test in the 2018/19 tour but was left disappointed by rain gods as they forced a draw. England, Pakistan and West Indies are the only sides to register more than a win in Sydney against Australia with Pakistan being the only Asian team to win 2 Test matches in Sydney. ALSO READ: Australia, India resume 'arm-wrestle' as Covid dominates Test build-up 'So close in 2019' In 2019, India were on the verge of winning the Sydney Test after Cheteshwar Pujara and Rishabh Pant centuries helped the visitors post a mammoth 622/7 (decl.) before bundling out the hosts for 300. After enforcing the follow on, the last two days of the Sydney Test was rain-marred which also saved the Australians from a humiliation. 'Win in 1978 unforgettable' Whereas talking about the famous win in Sydney back in 1978, Bhagwath Chandrashekhar and Bishan Bedi picked up four and three wickets respectively in the first innings to dismiss Australia for 131 in the first innings. ALSO READ: 'Australians are bad losers' - Former India spinner tears apart hosts over bio-bubble controversy India posted 396/8 (decl.) after Gundappa Vishwanath played a masterful knock of 79 along with Karsan Ghavri's 64 to bolster the momentum. Australia, despite half-centuries from Gary Cosier and Peter Tooney couldn't climb the mountainous target and surrendered in front of the Indian bowling attack with Erapalli Prasanna picking four wickets while Ghavri, Bedi and Chandrashekhar scalped two wickets each. But with the focus completely shifting to the Sydney Test, after a controversy-filled week, India would be hoping to get their long-due win in Sydney. India vs Australia, Sydney Test is set to commence from January 7.

Focus on Ajinkya Rahane & Co. as India look to end 42-year wait in Sydney

With the Indian team facing plenty of criticism from the Australian media after five players were placed in isolation for an alleged bio-secure bubble breach in Melbourne, former Indian spinner Pragyan Ojha has lashed out at the Australian media as he said that they are trying to unsettle the Indian team after losing the Boxing Day Test by eight wickets.

Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant, Shubman Gill, Prithvi Shaw and Navdeep Saini were asked to isolate after photographs and video of them dining at an indoor restaurant went viral on social media. However, the BCCI has continued to back its players. But some of the reactions coming in from Australian media and a handful of Australian politician have irked Ojha.

"Everybody knows Australians are bad losers. They are not able to take it (MCG defeat) despite five of our main players missing. Indian team is doing so well. They never expected the Indian team to win. They thought they could win, they were taken by surprise," Pragyan Ojha said on Sports Today.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/after-trolling-pakistan-team-new-zealand-fans-take-hilarious-dig-at-australias-steve-smith-and-joe-burns-354391" hreflang="en">After trolling Pakistan team, New Zealand fans take hilarious dig at Australia's Steve Smith and Joe Burns</a>

"I feel it's a big gimmick to take the pressure off Australia and try to get under the skin of the Indians. They don't know we exactly know what they are trying to do. The Indian team is relaxed, they know what to do and focused on the last 2 Tests," he added.

Meanwhile, the entire Indian contingent tested negative for the coronavirus and all the players left for Sydney from Melbourne on Monday.

"Rohit Sharma, he has had a 14-day hard quarantine, before that training at the NCA. I am very sure he is not a fool to come and just breach the protocols. Yes, at times, things look different. I am very sure, they know what the protocols are and they follow them," said Ojha speaking about the whole controversy.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/statement-portrays-indians-in-poor-light-bcci-rethinking-playing-in-brisbane-after-ros-bates-comments-354367" hreflang="en">'Statement portrays Indians in poor light' - BCCI rethinking playing in Brisbane after Ros Bates' comments</a>

"The bottom line is Australians are bad losers," he concluded.

With the four-match Test series firmly locked at 1-1, the third Test between India and Australia is set to start from January 7 at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

With the Indian team facing plenty of criticism from the Australian media after five players were placed in isolation for an alleged bio-secure bubble breach in Melbourne, former Indian spinner Pragyan Ojha has lashed out at the Australian media as he said that they are trying to unsettle the Indian team after losing the Boxing Day Test by eight wickets.

With the Indian team facing plenty of criticism from the Australian media after five players were placed in isolation for an alleged bio-secure bubble breach in Melbourne, former Indian spinner Pragyan Ojha has lashed out at the Australian media as he said that they are trying to unsettle the Indian team after losing the Boxing Day Test by eight wickets. Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant, Shubman Gill, Prithvi Shaw and Navdeep Saini were asked to isolate after photographs and video of them dining at an indoor restaurant went viral on social media. However, the BCCI has continued to back its players. But some of the reactions coming in from Australian media and a handful of Australian politician have irked Ojha. "Everybody knows Australians are bad losers. They are not able to take it (MCG defeat) despite five of our main players missing. Indian team is doing so well. They never expected the Indian team to win. They thought they could win, they were taken by surprise," Pragyan Ojha said on Sports Today. ALSO READ: After trolling Pakistan team, New Zealand fans take hilarious dig at Australia's Steve Smith and Joe Burns "I feel it's a big gimmick to take the pressure off Australia and try to get under the skin of the Indians. They don't know we exactly know what they are trying to do. The Indian team is relaxed, they know what to do and focused on the last 2 Tests," he added. Meanwhile, the entire Indian contingent tested negative for the coronavirus and all the players left for Sydney from Melbourne on Monday. "Rohit Sharma, he has had a 14-day hard quarantine, before that training at the NCA. I am very sure he is not a fool to come and just breach the protocols. Yes, at times, things look different. I am very sure, they know what the protocols are and they follow them," said Ojha speaking about the whole controversy. ALSO READ: 'Statement portrays Indians in poor light' - BCCI rethinking playing in Brisbane after Ros Bates' comments "The bottom line is Australians are bad losers," he concluded. With the four-match Test series firmly locked at 1-1, the third Test between India and Australia is set to start from January 7 at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

'Australians are bad losers' - Former India spinner tears apart hosts over bio-bubble controversy

Australian batsman Marnus Labuschagne, ahead of the third Test against India, said that Aussie batsmen must balance aggression with discipline in a bid to fight back in the four-Test series, which is locked firmly at 1-1.&nbsp;

Australia have failed to surpass 200 in either Test so far, against a well-oiled Indian attack which has troubled the hosts on their own soil.

While key batsman Steve Smith has struggled to break the shackle with his willow, other batsmen including Labuschagne have also battled for runs. After dominating Pakistan and New Zealand bowlers on Australian soil, Labuschagne lauded the Indian bowlers but said the hosts need to rise to the challenge.

“They’ve been very disciplined in their bowling and in their plans, with both spin and pace, I think they’ve really held that straight line,” said Labuschagne, who was dismissed for 48 and 28 in the second test in Melbourne.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/its-a-bit-baggy-and-green-ben-stokes-hilarious-reaction-on-receiving-team-of-the-decade-cap-icc-responds-353671" hreflang="en">'It's a bit BAGGY and GREEN': Ben Stokes' hilarious reaction on receiving Team of the Decade cap; ICC responds</a>

“They’ve made us face a lot of balls for ... a strike rate of about two runs an over.

“We need to be very disciplined. And we also need to come up with ways to put them under pressure.

“For us, it’s just making sure we keep finding ways to score ... It doesn’t have to be pretty, but we just got to keep grinding and keep fighting away and if we do get in, we’ve got to make sure we get those big scores.”

After Australia won the series opener in historic fashion in Adelaide, India bounced back with an eight-wicket win in Melbourne with Sydney Test starting on January 7. For Australia, veteran batsman David Warner returns to the squad in place of Joe Burns, who has been off-form for a few months now.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/its-a-bit-baggy-and-green-ben-stokes-hilarious-reaction-on-receiving-team-of-the-decade-cap-icc-responds-353671" hreflang="en">'It's a bit BAGGY and GREEN': Ben Stokes' hilarious reaction on receiving Team of the Decade cap; ICC responds</a>

“Someone with over 7,000 test runs and averaging near-on 50, he’s a superb player,” said Labuschagne.

“I think he’s in that top calibre of player ... Just his energy that he will bring around the group and his energy in the field will be terrific.”

Earlier on Friday, the BCCI announced the Indian squad wherein Rohit Sharma was named as the vice-captain of the side with Ajinkya Rahane leading Team India in the last two Tests against Australia. 
&nbsp;

Australian batsman Marnus Labuschagne, ahead of the third Test against India, said that Aussie batsmen must balance aggression with discipline in a bid to fight back in the four-Test series, which is locked firmly at 1-1.

Australian batsman Marnus Labuschagne, ahead of the third Test against India, said that Aussie batsmen must balance aggression with discipline in a bid to fight back in the four-Test series, which is locked firmly at 1-1. Australia have failed to surpass 200 in either Test so far, against a well-oiled Indian attack which has troubled the hosts on their own soil. While key batsman Steve Smith has struggled to break the shackle with his willow, other batsmen including Labuschagne have also battled for runs. After dominating Pakistan and New Zealand bowlers on Australian soil, Labuschagne lauded the Indian bowlers but said the hosts need to rise to the challenge. “They’ve been very disciplined in their bowling and in their plans, with both spin and pace, I think they’ve really held that straight line,” said Labuschagne, who was dismissed for 48 and 28 in the second test in Melbourne. ALSO READ: 'It's a bit BAGGY and GREEN': Ben Stokes' hilarious reaction on receiving Team of the Decade cap; ICC responds “They’ve made us face a lot of balls for ... a strike rate of about two runs an over. “We need to be very disciplined. And we also need to come up with ways to put them under pressure. “For us, it’s just making sure we keep finding ways to score ... It doesn’t have to be pretty, but we just got to keep grinding and keep fighting away and if we do get in, we’ve got to make sure we get those big scores.” After Australia won the series opener in historic fashion in Adelaide, India bounced back with an eight-wicket win in Melbourne with Sydney Test starting on January 7. For Australia, veteran batsman David Warner returns to the squad in place of Joe Burns, who has been off-form for a few months now. ALSO READ: 'It's a bit BAGGY and GREEN': Ben Stokes' hilarious reaction on receiving Team of the Decade cap; ICC responds “Someone with over 7,000 test runs and averaging near-on 50, he’s a superb player,” said Labuschagne. “I think he’s in that top calibre of player ... Just his energy that he will bring around the group and his energy in the field will be terrific.” Earlier on Friday, the BCCI announced the Indian squad wherein Rohit Sharma was named as the vice-captain of the side with Ajinkya Rahane leading Team India in the last two Tests against Australia.

'Very disciplined' - Marnus Labuschagne lauds Indian bowlers but wants Aussies to 'grind' for runs

Cricket Australia on Friday said that the third Test of the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy against India is still on despite a fresh COVID-19 outbreak in Sydney. The CA said that the situation is being closely monitored but was confident of pulling off the Test match.

Australian cricket authorities were put on alert after number of coronavirus cases in Sydney reached 28 on Friday. The third Test between India and Australia at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground is slated to be played from January 7.&nbsp;

"There's been lots of discussion and meetings of our medical experts, but this is the reason why throughout the summer we've had our players in bubbles in the hub," CA's interim chief executive Nick Hockley told SEN Radio.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-is-a-personal-decision-pcb-reacts-to-mohammad-amirs-decision-to-retire-from-international-cricket-350499" hreflang="en">'This is a personal decision': PCB reacts to Mohammad Amir's decision to retire from international cricket</a>

"We're monitoring the situation; we're not panicking at all, staying calm... ... it's really watch, wait and see and I think the governments around the country have handled the pandemic so well, so we'll watch, learn and stay in touch."

On whether the SCG Test was in doubt, Hockley said: "I don't think so - this is the very reason why we have the hubs in place... "... whether it's the WBBL players, the BBL players, the BCCI, our own Australia squads, they have been absolutely fantastic in dealing with all the protocols.

"Our medical experts have been working around the clock, we're in very good communication with health authorities around the country. It's one of the things we've had to navigate with getting cricket up safely."&nbsp;

The latest Sydney outbreak has already had an impact on the broadcasters with former Aussie pacer and Fox Cricket commentator Brett Lee decided to go back home in northern Sydney. Whereas two Sydney-based members of the broadcasters returned back to their home base while two others decided to work from hotel.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-virat-kohli-suffers-run-out-after-terrible-mix-up-with-ajinkya-rahane-in-adelaide-test-350471" hreflang="en">Watch: Virat Kohli suffers run-out after terrible mix-up with Ajinkya Rahane in Adelaide Test</a>

"If the game can be played safely (in Sydney) then we'll play it there. That's our starting point, so it's working with the health authorities to ascertain that," he said.

"We started out thinking how to play the full series as safely as possible, and we'll take the same approach over the coming days and weeks.&nbsp;

"We've got contingency plans around a whole range of different options, and we've had to be agile all the way through. We were encouraged that it was 17 cases yesterday and ten today, and we'll see how that plays out over the next 72 hours."&nbsp;

Before the third Test, the second match is scheduled to start at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Deceber 26 and its chief Stuart Fox said they are open to supporting CA if need be.&nbsp;

"We hope that doesn't happen to Sydney. We know what it's like to lose a major event. For us, all focus is on the Boxing Day Test," he was quoted as saying by 'Sydney Morning Herald'. "We're here to support Cricket Australia if need be." 
&nbsp;

Cricket Australia on Friday said that the third Test of the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy against India is still on despite a fresh COVID-19 outbreak in Sydney.

Cricket Australia on Friday said that the third Test of the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy against India is still on despite a fresh COVID-19 outbreak in Sydney. The CA said that the situation is being closely monitored but was confident of pulling off the Test match. Australian cricket authorities were put on alert after number of coronavirus cases in Sydney reached 28 on Friday. The third Test between India and Australia at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground is slated to be played from January 7. "There's been lots of discussion and meetings of our medical experts, but this is the reason why throughout the summer we've had our players in bubbles in the hub," CA's interim chief executive Nick Hockley told SEN Radio. ALSO READ:'This is a personal decision': PCB reacts to Mohammad Amir's decision to retire from international cricket "We're monitoring the situation; we're not panicking at all, staying calm... ... it's really watch, wait and see and I think the governments around the country have handled the pandemic so well, so we'll watch, learn and stay in touch." On whether the SCG Test was in doubt, Hockley said: "I don't think so - this is the very reason why we have the hubs in place... "... whether it's the WBBL players, the BBL players, the BCCI, our own Australia squads, they have been absolutely fantastic in dealing with all the protocols. "Our medical experts have been working around the clock, we're in very good communication with health authorities around the country. It's one of the things we've had to navigate with getting cricket up safely." The latest Sydney outbreak has already had an impact on the broadcasters with former Aussie pacer and Fox Cricket commentator Brett Lee decided to go back home in northern Sydney. Whereas two Sydney-based members of the broadcasters returned back to their home base while two others decided to work from hotel. ALSO READ: Watch: Virat Kohli suffers run-out after terrible mix-up with Ajinkya Rahane in Adelaide Test "If the game can be played safely (in Sydney) then we'll play it there. That's our starting point, so it's working with the health authorities to ascertain that," he said. "We started out thinking how to play the full series as safely as possible, and we'll take the same approach over the coming days and weeks. "We've got contingency plans around a whole range of different options, and we've had to be agile all the way through. We were encouraged that it was 17 cases yesterday and ten today, and we'll see how that plays out over the next 72 hours." Before the third Test, the second match is scheduled to start at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Deceber 26 and its chief Stuart Fox said they are open to supporting CA if need be. "We hope that doesn't happen to Sydney. We know what it's like to lose a major event. For us, all focus is on the Boxing Day Test," he was quoted as saying by 'Sydney Morning Herald'. "We're here to support Cricket Australia if need be."

SCG Test on despite Sydney COVID-19 outbreak, situation being monitored by Cricket Australia

The 2008 India's tour of Australia which was infamously rocked by the Monkeygate episode, which put a black spot in the relationship between two cricketing giants. The verbal tussle between Harbhajan Singh and Andrew Symonds had put the entire series in jeopardy. While Ricky Ponting is hailed as one of the most successful captains of all time, the former Aussie skipper revealed that the 'Monkeygate' scandal was the lowest point in his career as a captain.

“We all felt let down by the end result (of the Monkeygate controversy). The fact that it got in the way of the way we played our cricket for the next Test match was probably the most disappointing thing,” Ponting told on a podcast conducted by a leading media outlet.

Ponting further said that Australia were heavy favourites to win the Perth Test but lost it which made the entire environment in and out of the Australian dressing room worse.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/guys-wash-your-hands-kl-rahul-reminds-shreyas-iyer-hardik-pandya-about-health-advisory-on-coronavirus-287159">'Guys, wash your hands' - KL Rahul reminds Shreyas Iyer, Hardik Pandya about health advisory on coronavirus</a>

“So we go over there and India at Perth is game we expect to win and then we lost the match and after that, the next few days things just got worse and worse,” Ponting said.

<h2>"Monkeygate was probably the lowest"</h2>

“Monkeygate was probably the lowest (point in career as captain). Losing the 2005 Ashes series was tough but I was in full control of that. But I wasn’t in full control of what happened during the Monkeygate thing,” he added.

<img alt="Harbhajan Singh, Ricky Ponting (Photo: AFP)" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="cc30263e-4b9f-4ae1-b6e4-c654fecf50c4" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_Hkg982255_0.jpg" />

The former Aussie skipper then revealed that the Monkeygate controversy was a low point in his career because the entire controversy surrounding the episode got dragged on for long.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/coronavirus-pandemic-bcci-looking-to-conduct-ipl-2020-in-july-september-window-287140">Coronavirus pandemic: BCCI looking to conduct IPL 2020 in July-September window</a>

“It was a low point and also because it dragged on for so long. I remember coming off the ground during the Adelaide Test match and speaking to Cricket Australia officials about the case because the hearing was at the end of the Adelaide Test match,” Ponting said.

However, Ponting has already said it several times that he has cleared any remaining rift with Harbhajan, Sachin Tendulkar and Anil Kumble during his stint in the Indian Premier League with Mumbai Indians.

&nbsp;

The 2008 India's tour of Australia which was infamously rocked by the Monkeygate episode, which put a black spot in the relationship between two cricketing giants.

The 2008 India's tour of Australia which was infamously rocked by the Monkeygate episode, which put a black spot in the relationship between two cricketing giants. The verbal tussle between Harbhajan Singh and Andrew Symonds had put the entire series in jeopardy. While Ricky Ponting is hailed as one of the most successful captains of all time, the former Aussie skipper revealed that the 'Monkeygate' scandal was the lowest point in his career as a captain. “We all felt let down by the end result (of the Monkeygate controversy). The fact that it got in the way of the way we played our cricket for the next Test match was probably the most disappointing thing,” Ponting told on a podcast conducted by a leading media outlet. Ponting further said that Australia were heavy favourites to win the Perth Test but lost it which made the entire environment in and out of the Australian dressing room worse. ALSO READ: 'Guys, wash your hands' - KL Rahul reminds Shreyas Iyer, Hardik Pandya about health advisory on coronavirus “So we go over there and India at Perth is game we expect to win and then we lost the match and after that, the next few days things just got worse and worse,” Ponting said. "Monkeygate was probably the lowest" “Monkeygate was probably the lowest (point in career as captain). Losing the 2005 Ashes series was tough but I was in full control of that. But I wasn’t in full control of what happened during the Monkeygate thing,” he added. The former Aussie skipper then revealed that the Monkeygate controversy was a low point in his career because the entire controversy surrounding the episode got dragged on for long. ALSO READ: Coronavirus pandemic: BCCI looking to conduct IPL 2020 in July-September window “It was a low point and also because it dragged on for so long. I remember coming off the ground during the Adelaide Test match and speaking to Cricket Australia officials about the case because the hearing was at the end of the Adelaide Test match,” Ponting said. However, Ponting has already said it several times that he has cleared any remaining rift with Harbhajan, Sachin Tendulkar and Anil Kumble during his stint in the Indian Premier League with Mumbai Indians.

'Monkeygate was probably the lowest' - Ricky Ponting reveals lowest point of his career

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2019-marnus-labuschagne-stars-as-australia-draw-second-test-244005">Marnus Labuschagne</a> hit a double century as Australia amassed a huge 454 first innings against a weary New Zealand in the third <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-labuschagne-leads-as-australia-take-charge-in-sydney-271812">Sydney Test</a> on Saturday.

Labuschagne reached his highest Test score of 215 as the Australians were dismissed just before tea on the second day.&nbsp;

The rock-solid number three sweated on 199 for 20 minutes before he thick edged <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/slvnz-watling-colin-de-grandhomme-put-new-zealand-ahead-in-second-test-245565">Colin de Grandhomme</a> through the vacant slips to the ropes to bring up his double ton.

The milestone came off 363 balls with 19 fours and a six and eclipsed his previous Test record of 185 against Pakistan in Brisbane last November.

Labuschagne was Test cricket's leading run-getter last year with 1,104 runs and is carrying on where he left off in 2019.

The Kiwis finally got him out when Labuschagne was caught and bowled by leg-spinner Todd Astle.

Skipper <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tim-paine-takes-a-dig-at-virat-kohli-who-are-slated-to-play-test-series-next-year-264214">Tim Paine</a> provided support for Labuschagne to reach his double century before he was bowled between his bat and pad by de Grandhomme for 35.

Paine faced 92 balls and shared in a 79-run stand with Labuschagne to take Australia beyond 400.

Wickets fell quickly just before tea with James Pattinson bowled by Neil Wagner for two, Pat Cummins caught off Astle's bowling for eight and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ricky-ponting-says-mitchell-starc-needs-to-do-something-special-to-play-first-test-against-pak-262553">Mitchell Starc</a> hitting a breezy 22 off 21 balls before he was bowled by Wagner, who finished with three for 66.

The hosts lost two wickets on the second morning of the Test.

Matthew Wade was out in the day's first over, bowled off-stump while attempting to sweep off-spinner, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-nz-spinner-somerville-replaces-injured-boult-in-sydney-test-270920">Will Somerville</a>, for no addition to his overnight score of 22.

Melbourne Test centurion Travis Head fell to Matt Henry, cutting too close to his body and snicking to wicketkeeper <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/galle-test-bj-watling-puts-new-zealand-in-strong-position-243481">BJ Watling</a>.

The Kiwi bowlers had strangled his scoring shots and his 10 runs came off 42 balls.

Henry was bowling despite fracturing his left thumb on Friday. He had the injury strapped and placed in a splint to continue on playing.

The Sydney Test is being played against the backdrop of one of Australia's most devastating bushfire seasons with at least 20 people losing their lives in blazes raging across the country, including on the outskirts of Sydney.

Play will be suspended in the match at the umpire's discretion, should smoke significantly affect air quality or visibility, but the sky above the ground has remained clear so far.&nbsp;

Marnus Labuschagne hit a double century as Australia amassed a huge 454 first innings against a weary New Zealand in the third Sydney Test on Saturday. Labuschagne reached his highest Test score of 215 as the Australians were dismissed just before tea on the second day.

Marnus Labuschagne hit a double century as Australia amassed a huge 454 first innings against a weary New Zealand in the third Sydney Test on Saturday. Labuschagne reached his highest Test score of 215 as the Australians were dismissed just before tea on the second day. The rock-solid number three sweated on 199 for 20 minutes before he thick edged Colin de Grandhomme through the vacant slips to the ropes to bring up his double ton. The milestone came off 363 balls with 19 fours and a six and eclipsed his previous Test record of 185 against Pakistan in Brisbane last November. Labuschagne was Test cricket's leading run-getter last year with 1,104 runs and is carrying on where he left off in 2019. The Kiwis finally got him out when Labuschagne was caught and bowled by leg-spinner Todd Astle. Skipper Tim Paine provided support for Labuschagne to reach his double century before he was bowled between his bat and pad by de Grandhomme for 35. Paine faced 92 balls and shared in a 79-run stand with Labuschagne to take Australia beyond 400. Wickets fell quickly just before tea with James Pattinson bowled by Neil Wagner for two, Pat Cummins caught off Astle's bowling for eight and Mitchell Starc hitting a breezy 22 off 21 balls before he was bowled by Wagner, who finished with three for 66. The hosts lost two wickets on the second morning of the Test. Matthew Wade was out in the day's first over, bowled off-stump while attempting to sweep off-spinner, Will Somerville, for no addition to his overnight score of 22. Melbourne Test centurion Travis Head fell to Matt Henry, cutting too close to his body and snicking to wicketkeeper BJ Watling. The Kiwi bowlers had strangled his scoring shots and his 10 runs came off 42 balls. Henry was bowling despite fracturing his left thumb on Friday. He had the injury strapped and placed in a splint to continue on playing. The Sydney Test is being played against the backdrop of one of Australia's most devastating bushfire seasons with at least 20 people losing their lives in blazes raging across the country, including on the outskirts of Sydney. Play will be suspended in the match at the umpire's discretion, should smoke significantly affect air quality or visibility, but the sky above the ground has remained clear so far.

Aus vs NZ: Marnus Labuschagne hits double ton in Australia's 454

New Zealand has called up off-spinner&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-fast-bowler-ferguson-gets-new-zealand-test-call-262318">Will&nbsp;Somerville</a>&nbsp;to replace&nbsp;injured&nbsp;fast bowler <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-new-zealands-trent-boult-on-track-for-dream-boxing-day-test-against-australia-268852">Trent&nbsp;Boult</a>&nbsp;for the third and final&nbsp;test&nbsp;match against Australia in&nbsp;Sydney&nbsp;that begins on Thursday, the country's cricket board (NZC) said on Monday.

Boult&nbsp;was ruled out of the final&nbsp;test&nbsp;after fracturing his right hand when he was struck on the gloves while facing a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-new-zealand-collapse-to-148-all-out-under-australian-pace-barrage-270701">Mitchell Starc</a> delivery in their 247-run defeat in Melbourne. He did not bat in the second innings.

New Zealand coach <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/new-zealand-boosts-test-security-after-archer-racially-abused-264531">Gary Stead</a> said 35-year-old&nbsp;Somerville, who has played three&nbsp;tests and picked up 14 wickets, was called up instead of another paceman as the conditions at the&nbsp;Sydney&nbsp;Cricket Ground were conducive to spin.

"There's no secret the SCG pitch is one of the more spin-friendly in Australia," Stead said in a statement. "Will offers something different to our two other&nbsp;spinners in the squad with his right arm off-spin and height.

"The fact he's played a lot of cricket in&nbsp;Sydney&nbsp;during his career for New South Wales will also be helpful as we prepare for this final&nbsp;Test."

Australia have already wrapped up a 2-0 victory in the three-match series after winning the first&nbsp;test&nbsp;in Perth by 296 runs.

New Zealand has called up off-spinner Will Somerville to replace injured fast bowler Trent Boult for the third and final test match against Australia in Sydney that begins on Thursday, the country's cricket board (NZC) said on Monday.

New Zealand has called up off-spinner Will Somerville to replace injured fast bowler Trent Boult for the third and final test match against Australia in Sydney that begins on Thursday, the country's cricket board (NZC) said on Monday. Boult was ruled out of the final test after fracturing his right hand when he was struck on the gloves while facing a Mitchell Starc delivery in their 247-run defeat in Melbourne. He did not bat in the second innings. New Zealand coach Gary Stead said 35-year-old Somerville, who has played three tests and picked up 14 wickets, was called up instead of another paceman as the conditions at the Sydney Cricket Ground were conducive to spin. "There's no secret the SCG pitch is one of the more spin-friendly in Australia," Stead said in a statement. "Will offers something different to our two other spinners in the squad with his right arm off-spin and height. "The fact he's played a lot of cricket in Sydney during his career for New South Wales will also be helpful as we prepare for this final Test." Australia have already wrapped up a 2-0 victory in the three-match series after winning the first test in Perth by 296 runs.

New Zealand spinner Somerville replaces injured Boult in Sydney Test

Australia Thursday drafted Perth Scorchers batsman <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/sri-lanka-recalls-kusal-perera-for-australia-tests-189096">Ashton Turner as cover for Mitchell Marsh</a> who was ruled out of the first one-day international against India in Sydney with a gastro bug.

All-rounder Marsh has spent two days in the&nbsp;hospital with his availability for the other two games in the series - in Adelaide and Melbourne - under a cloud.

"We'll see how he goes, but he certainly won't (play) this first game and we will wait and see how he recovers," said coach Justin Langer ahead of the opening clash on Saturday.

It is another blow for Marsh who on Wednesday was axed from the Test squad to play Sri Lanka, along with his brother Shaun.

Turner, who plays state cricket with Western Australia and for the Scorchers in Twenty20, has scored 43 not out, 47 and 60 not out in his past three Big Bash League matches.

Revised squad:

Aaron Finch (capt), Usman Khawaja, Shaun Marsh, Peter Handscomb, Glenn Maxwell, Ashton Turner, Marcus Stoinis, Mitch Marsh, Alex Carey, Jhye Richardson, Billy Stanlake, Jason Behrendorff, Peter Siddle, Nathan Lyon, Adam Zampa.

Australia Thursday drafted Perth Scorchers batsman Ashton Turner as cover for Mitchell Marsh who was ruled out of the first one-day international against India in Sydney with a gastro bug.

Australia Thursday drafted Perth Scorchers batsman Ashton Turner as cover for Mitchell Marsh who was ruled out of the first one-day international against India in Sydney with a gastro bug. All-rounder Marsh has spent two days in the hospital with his availability for the other two games in the series - in Adelaide and Melbourne - under a cloud. "We'll see how he goes, but he certainly won't (play) this first game and we will wait and see how he recovers," said coach Justin Langer ahead of the opening clash on Saturday. It is another blow for Marsh who on Wednesday was axed from the Test squad to play Sri Lanka, along with his brother Shaun. Turner, who plays state cricket with Western Australia and for the Scorchers in Twenty20, has scored 43 not out, 47 and 60 not out in his past three Big Bash League matches. Revised squad: Aaron Finch (capt), Usman Khawaja, Shaun Marsh, Peter Handscomb, Glenn Maxwell, Ashton Turner, Marcus Stoinis, Mitch Marsh, Alex Carey, Jhye Richardson, Billy Stanlake, Jason Behrendorff, Peter Siddle, Nathan Lyon, Adam Zampa.

India-Australia ODI: Mitchell Marsh ruled out, rookie Ashton Turner in squad

Indian cricketers <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/after-backlash-hardik-pandya-apologises-for-comments-on-tv-show-189131">Hardik Pandya and K L Rahul</a> were on Wednesday issued showcause notices by the BCCI for their comments on women on a TV show that triggered a massive outrage and might prompt the board to bar players from such appearances.

Pandya, whose remarks <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/kl-rahul-hardik-pandya-say-kohli-better-batsman-than-sachin-tendulkar-twitterati-tear-them-apart-188672">on 'Koffee with Karan' was criticised</a> as sexist, apologised for his remarks, saying he got "carried away by the nature" of the show. Rahul, on the other hand, has not yet responded to the criticism.

"We have sent showcause notices to Hardik Pandya and K L Rahul for their comments. They have been given 24 hours to give an explanation," chairman of the committee of administrators that runs the BCCI, Vinod Rai, said.

The 25-year-old all-rounder and Rahul appeared on the celebrity chat show, hosted by filmmaker Karan Johar, together.

Taking to Twitter, Pandya posted, "After reflecting on my comments on Koffee with Karan, I would like to apologise to everyone concerned who I may have hurt in any way.

"Honestly, I got a bit carried away with the nature of the show. In no way did I mean to disrespect or hurt anyone's sentiments. Respect."

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On the show, Pandya boasted about hooking up with multiple women and also how open he has been about it with his parents.

When asked why he didn't ask women their name in a club, Pandya responded by saying, "I like to watch and observe how they (women) move. I'm little from the black side so I need to see how they move."

Criticism started coming Pandya's way soon after and it is learnt that he was ticked off by the BCCI top brass.

According to a source, his comments were deemed "crass and cringe worthy" and might have a bearing on whether Indian cricketers appear on "such non-cricket shows" after this.

"It will be considered whether players should even be allowed to appear on such shows which have got nothing to do with cricket," a BCCI source said.

Pandya is currently with the Indian team in Australia where it recently recorded a historic maiden Test series win.

Pandya had joined the team before the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne after recovering from a back injury which he had suffered during the Asia Cup in UAE last year.

He will be seen in action in the three-match ODI series against Australia which starts on January 12 in Sydney.

Indian cricketers Hardik Pandya and K L Rahul were on Wednesday issued showcause notices by the BCCI for their comments on women on a TV show that triggered a massive outrage and might prompt the board to bar players from such appearances.

Indian cricketers Hardik Pandya and K L Rahul were on Wednesday issued showcause notices by the BCCI for their comments on women on a TV show that triggered a massive outrage and might prompt the board to bar players from such appearances. Pandya, whose remarks on 'Koffee with Karan' was criticised as sexist, apologised for his remarks, saying he got "carried away by the nature" of the show. Rahul, on the other hand, has not yet responded to the criticism. "We have sent showcause notices to Hardik Pandya and K L Rahul for their comments. They have been given 24 hours to give an explanation," chairman of the committee of administrators that runs the BCCI, Vinod Rai, said. The 25-year-old all-rounder and Rahul appeared on the celebrity chat show, hosted by filmmaker Karan Johar, together. Taking to Twitter, Pandya posted, "After reflecting on my comments on Koffee with Karan, I would like to apologise to everyone concerned who I may have hurt in any way. "Honestly, I got a bit carried away with the nature of the show. In no way did I mean to disrespect or hurt anyone's sentiments. Respect." pic.twitter.com/O0UlpFm43o — hardik pandya (@hardikpandya7) January 9, 2019 × On the show, Pandya boasted about hooking up with multiple women and also how open he has been about it with his parents. When asked why he didn't ask women their name in a club, Pandya responded by saying, "I like to watch and observe how they (women) move. I'm little from the black side so I need to see how they move." Criticism started coming Pandya's way soon after and it is learnt that he was ticked off by the BCCI top brass. According to a source, his comments were deemed "crass and cringe worthy" and might have a bearing on whether Indian cricketers appear on "such non-cricket shows" after this. "It will be considered whether players should even be allowed to appear on such shows which have got nothing to do with cricket," a BCCI source said. Pandya is currently with the Indian team in Australia where it recently recorded a historic maiden Test series win. Pandya had joined the team before the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne after recovering from a back injury which he had suffered during the Asia Cup in UAE last year. He will be seen in action in the three-match ODI series against Australia which starts on January 12 in Sydney.

BCCI issues showcause notice against Hardik Pandya, KL Rahul for comments on women in TV show

Virat Kohli-led team achieved <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/historic-india-win-maiden-test-series-in-australia-188678">Test series victory</a> on Australian soil since India started touring to Australia in 1947-48 as they clinched the series 2-1 after the weather-affected fourth match at the Sydney Cricket finished in a draw on Monday.&nbsp;&nbsp;

After winning the historic Test series Virat said, "By far this is my best achievement. Has to be on top of the pile. When we won the World Cup, I was a young player. I saw the others getting emotional."&nbsp;

Rishabh Pant led the on-field celebrations with an unusual victory dance and the entire team joined in. The celebration became hilarious when the players asked Cheteshwar Pujara to shake a leg but he simply couldn't.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-wife-anushka-goes-on-victory-walk-with-virat-kohli-in-sydney-188785">Wife Anushka goes on ‘victory walk’ with Virat Kohli in Sydney</a>

Watch:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-wife-anushka-goes-on-victory-walk-with-virat-kohli-in-sydney-188785">India's victory in Australia 'bigger' than 1983 World Cup win, says Shastri</a>

Virat Kohli while interacting with media was asked about the victory dance, "Can you explain the dance that you and some of the guys did in front of Indian fans?"

Virat replied, "You'll have to ask Rishabh Pant that, he came up with that and we just went along. I don't know what he was trying to do to be honest. It just felt good, it was very easy but Pujara could not even do that. You can see how simple he is".

Watch the victory dance:&nbsp;

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#<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> 
Dance Dance 🕺🕺🕺🕺🕺🕺🕺🏼🕺 
Celebrations have well and truly begun for Team India! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/0ambFZkqUX">pic.twitter.com/0ambFZkqUX</a>
— Ritika Sajdeh ™ (@ImRitika45) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRitika45/status/1082153874771841029?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Get those feet tapping. The Bharat Army gave the team a welcome in their own style - and needless to say, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> joined in 😁😁 - - <a href="https://twitter.com/28anand?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@28anand</a> gets us visuals straight from the hotel 👌👌 
 
Watch the full video here ----&gt; <a href="https://t.co/a0vlmo5Gmg">https://t.co/a0vlmo5Gmg</a> <a href="https://t.co/N8likfSmDN">pic.twitter.com/N8likfSmDN</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1082210339662454785?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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MUST WATCH: Virat &amp; Co. celebrate historic win in style 😎🇮🇳🇮🇳<a href="https://twitter.com/scg?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@scg</a> dressing room abuzz with cheers, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> thanking their fans &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> on the proudest moment of his life - <a href="https://twitter.com/28anand?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@28anand</a> has all bases covered here <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> 
 
Video Link -----&gt; <a href="https://t.co/boJL4z7d1O">https://t.co/boJL4z7d1O</a> <a href="https://t.co/MC82y3cdYF">pic.twitter.com/MC82y3cdYF</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1082192586209521664?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Cheteshwar Pujara, who scored a century in all four Tests, was given the player of the match and also the player of the series.&nbsp;

Virat Kohli-led team achieved Test series victory on Australian soil since India started touring to Australia in 1947-48 as they clinched the series 2-1 after the weather-affected fourth match at the Sydney Cricket finished in a draw on Monday.

Virat Kohli-led team achieved Test series victory on Australian soil since India started touring to Australia in 1947-48 as they clinched the series 2-1 after the weather-affected fourth match at the Sydney Cricket finished in a draw on Monday. After winning the historic Test series Virat said, "By far this is my best achievement. Has to be on top of the pile. When we won the World Cup, I was a young player. I saw the others getting emotional." Rishabh Pant led the on-field celebrations with an unusual victory dance and the entire team joined in. The celebration became hilarious when the players asked Cheteshwar Pujara to shake a leg but he simply couldn't. Watch: Wife Anushka goes on ‘victory walk’ with Virat Kohli in Sydney Watch: India's victory in Australia 'bigger' than 1983 World Cup win, says Shastri Virat Kohli while interacting with media was asked about the victory dance, "Can you explain the dance that you and some of the guys did in front of Indian fans?" Virat replied, "You'll have to ask Rishabh Pant that, he came up with that and we just went along. I don't know what he was trying to do to be honest. It just felt good, it was very easy but Pujara could not even do that. You can see how simple he is". Watch the victory dance: ##AUSvIND #TeamIndia Dance Dance 🕺🕺🕺🕺🕺🕺🕺🏼🕺 Celebrations have well and truly begun for Team India! #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/0ambFZkqUX — Ritika Sajdeh ™ (@ImRitika45) January 7, 2019 × Get those feet tapping. The Bharat Army gave the team a welcome in their own style - and needless to say, #TeamIndia joined in 😁😁 - - @28anand gets us visuals straight from the hotel 👌👌 Watch the full video here ----> https://t.co/a0vlmo5Gmg pic.twitter.com/N8likfSmDN — BCCI (@BCCI) January 7, 2019 × MUST WATCH: Virat & Co. celebrate historic win in style 😎🇮🇳🇮🇳@scg dressing room abuzz with cheers, #TeamIndia thanking their fans & @imVkohli on the proudest moment of his life - @28anand has all bases covered here #AUSvIND Video Link -----> https://t.co/boJL4z7d1O pic.twitter.com/MC82y3cdYF — BCCI (@BCCI) January 7, 2019 × Cheteshwar Pujara, who scored a century in all four Tests, was given the player of the match and also the player of the series.

Watch: India's unusual victory dance after historic Test series win against Australia that Cheteshwar Pujara can't do

Tim Paine's men did their utmost to avoid being the first Australia side to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/historic-india-win-maiden-test-series-in-australia-188678">lose a Test series to India</a> on home soil but were outplayed in the key moments that might have swung matters in their favour, the 34-year-old said on Monday.

India wrapped up a 2-1 series victory, their first in 71 years of trying, after the fourth and final Test petered out in a draw at a rain-drenched Sydney Cricket Ground on Monday.

Installed as captain in the wake of the ball-tampering scandal in South Africa last year, Paine has now overseen seven Test matches and won just one -- the Perth victory that tied up the series at 1-1.

Paine admitted his inexperienced side had been completely outplayed in the last two matches in Melbourne and Sydney but thought the series might have panned out differently had the Australians done better in the opener in Adelaide.

"We honestly feel that we let that Test match slip," he told reporters.

Watch: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-wife-anushka-goes-on-victory-walk-with-virat-kohli-in-sydney-188785">Wife Anushka goes on ‘victory walk’ with Virat Kohli in Sydney</a>

Watch: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-wife-anushka-goes-on-victory-walk-with-virat-kohli-in-sydney-188785">India's victory in Australia 'bigger' than 1983 World Cup win, says Shastri</a>

"We thought had a number of opportunities in that Test to get ahead of the game, and when those key moments came up, India outplayed us.

"More often than not when those big moments came up, Virat (Kohli) scored a century or (Cheteshwar) Pujara scored one or (Jasprit) Bumrah bowled a great spell and got them through those moments.

"Their best players stood up in the big moments."

Paine said the Australians, still without their best two batsmen because of the bans handed out to Steve Smith and David Warner for their part in the Newlands scandal, needed to emulate the Indians when they take on Sri Lanka in a two-Test series.

"We can learn a lot from the way they went about it and we'll make sure we do," he said.

"We'll have a week off and get ready for the Sri Lanka series. We've got faith that the guys around the team are the right guys."

Paine said he had faith that senior batsmen Usman Khawaja and Shaun Marsh and the pace bowlers Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins would rediscover their best form after under-par series.

He thought that opener Marcus Harris and Travis Head, who probably got their chances because of the absence of Smith and Warner, had acquitted themselves well at Test level.

Paine conceded, however, that not scoring a century between the batting unit over the entire series was a serious setback.

"Clearly, we know we're not going to win too many any Test matches without scoring hundreds," he said.

"But when guys are in their third, fourth Test matches, it's hard. We had so many starts throughout this series, it's just the experience of learning how to convert them.

"(And the Indian) attack was seriously good. I don't think in Australia we've given them enough credit for how relentless they were. It was hard work batting even for seasoned Test players."

After a one-day series against India, Australia next take on Sri Lanka in Brisbane starting on Jan 24 followed by the second Test in Canberra.

"We're really disappointed," Paine said. "We know we had some guys missing but we honestly felt coming into this series that, particularly in Australia, we could beat India."

Tim Paine's men did their utmost to avoid being the first Australia side to lose a Test series to India on home soil but were outplayed in the key moments that might have swung matters in their favour, the 34-year-old said on Monday.

Tim Paine's men did their utmost to avoid being the first Australia side to lose a Test series to India on home soil but were outplayed in the key moments that might have swung matters in their favour, the 34-year-old said on Monday. India wrapped up a 2-1 series victory, their first in 71 years of trying, after the fourth and final Test petered out in a draw at a rain-drenched Sydney Cricket Ground on Monday. Installed as captain in the wake of the ball-tampering scandal in South Africa last year, Paine has now overseen seven Test matches and won just one -- the Perth victory that tied up the series at 1-1. Paine admitted his inexperienced side had been completely outplayed in the last two matches in Melbourne and Sydney but thought the series might have panned out differently had the Australians done better in the opener in Adelaide. "We honestly feel that we let that Test match slip," he told reporters. Watch: Wife Anushka goes on ‘victory walk’ with Virat Kohli in Sydney Watch: India's victory in Australia 'bigger' than 1983 World Cup win, says Shastri "We thought had a number of opportunities in that Test to get ahead of the game, and when those key moments came up, India outplayed us. "More often than not when those big moments came up, Virat (Kohli) scored a century or (Cheteshwar) Pujara scored one or (Jasprit) Bumrah bowled a great spell and got them through those moments. "Their best players stood up in the big moments." Paine said the Australians, still without their best two batsmen because of the bans handed out to Steve Smith and David Warner for their part in the Newlands scandal, needed to emulate the Indians when they take on Sri Lanka in a two-Test series. "We can learn a lot from the way they went about it and we'll make sure we do," he said. "We'll have a week off and get ready for the Sri Lanka series. We've got faith that the guys around the team are the right guys." Paine said he had faith that senior batsmen Usman Khawaja and Shaun Marsh and the pace bowlers Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins would rediscover their best form after under-par series. He thought that opener Marcus Harris and Travis Head, who probably got their chances because of the absence of Smith and Warner, had acquitted themselves well at Test level. Paine conceded, however, that not scoring a century between the batting unit over the entire series was a serious setback. "Clearly, we know we're not going to win too many any Test matches without scoring hundreds," he said. "But when guys are in their third, fourth Test matches, it's hard. We had so many starts throughout this series, it's just the experience of learning how to convert them. "(And the Indian) attack was seriously good. I don't think in Australia we've given them enough credit for how relentless they were. It was hard work batting even for seasoned Test players." After a one-day series against India, Australia next take on Sri Lanka in Brisbane starting on Jan 24 followed by the second Test in Canberra. "We're really disappointed," Paine said. "We know we had some guys missing but we honestly felt coming into this series that, particularly in Australia, we could beat India."

India vs Australia: We were outplayed in key moments, says Australia captain Tim Paine

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting Sunday slammed the current team for showing "no desperation" after Nathan Lyon decided against reviewing his lbw decision on day four of the fourth Test against India here.&nbsp;

Lyon was adjudged LBW after being hit on the pad off a Kuldeep Yadav delivery. He asked non-striker Mitchell Starc if he should opt for a review, but the duo decided against it despite two reviews remaining in their innings and only two wickets left.

At stumps on day four, Australia were bundled out for 300 in the first innings after which India enforced the follow-on. The hosts then came out to bat in the second innings, trailing by 322 runs.

India had piled up a mammoth 622 in their first innings.

"That dismissal actually says a lot to me about the mindset of this Australian team at the moment. There's no desperation there whatsoever," Ponting said on Channel Seven, one of the host broadcasters.

"Why wouldn't they have had a look at that? They've still got the two reviews up their sleeve. There had to be some sort of doubt in that," Ponting added.

The former three-time World Cup winning cricketer also slammed pacer Starc, who was at the non-stricker's end, for not intervening.

"Given out straight away and Mitchell Starc just puts his hand out and says 'oh well, it's not me, it's up to you to make (a call)".

"Well, unfortunately, when you're out there together it's a partnership. You've got to do whatever you can to try and save your mate. And there was absolutely none of that there," he added.

Replays suggested the ball would have probably struck Lyon outside the line of off stump and he may have been adjudged not out if DRS was taken.

"And as it's shown already that would have been given not out. Slack and not desperate enough. You can see where Mitchell Starc is standing at the non-striker's end," he added.&nbsp;

"One, look how wide he's standing. There's no need to be that wide in the first place. Nathan Lyon looks up, 'Oh what do you reckon?' 'Oh I don't know mate. Yeah I don't know. But let's not bother looking. We've only got two (reviews) up our sleeve," Ponting said.&nbsp;

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting Sunday slammed the current team for showing "no desperation" after Nathan Lyon decided against reviewing his lbw decision on day four of the fourth Test against India here.

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting Sunday slammed the current team for showing "no desperation" after Nathan Lyon decided against reviewing his lbw decision on day four of the fourth Test against India here. Lyon was adjudged LBW after being hit on the pad off a Kuldeep Yadav delivery. He asked non-striker Mitchell Starc if he should opt for a review, but the duo decided against it despite two reviews remaining in their innings and only two wickets left. At stumps on day four, Australia were bundled out for 300 in the first innings after which India enforced the follow-on. The hosts then came out to bat in the second innings, trailing by 322 runs. India had piled up a mammoth 622 in their first innings. "That dismissal actually says a lot to me about the mindset of this Australian team at the moment. There's no desperation there whatsoever," Ponting said on Channel Seven, one of the host broadcasters. "Why wouldn't they have had a look at that? They've still got the two reviews up their sleeve. There had to be some sort of doubt in that," Ponting added. The former three-time World Cup winning cricketer also slammed pacer Starc, who was at the non-stricker's end, for not intervening. "Given out straight away and Mitchell Starc just puts his hand out and says 'oh well, it's not me, it's up to you to make (a call)". "Well, unfortunately, when you're out there together it's a partnership. You've got to do whatever you can to try and save your mate. And there was absolutely none of that there," he added. Replays suggested the ball would have probably struck Lyon outside the line of off stump and he may have been adjudged not out if DRS was taken. "And as it's shown already that would have been given not out. Slack and not desperate enough. You can see where Mitchell Starc is standing at the non-striker's end," he added. "One, look how wide he's standing. There's no need to be that wide in the first place. Nathan Lyon looks up, 'Oh what do you reckon?' 'Oh I don't know mate. Yeah I don't know. But let's not bother looking. We've only got two (reviews) up our sleeve," Ponting said.

Ricky Ponting lashes out at Australia for showing 'no desperation'

Australia's batting woes returned on the third day of the fourth Test on Saturday and they had slumped to 236 for six when bad light and rain brought an early end to their response to India's mammoth first-innings tally of 622-7 declared.

The tourists only need a draw to claim a first series win in Australia and the home side's hopes of preventing even that faded as they blew a solid start to lose five wickets after lunch.

Marcus Harris, Marnus Labuschagne, Shaun Marsh and Travis Head were all dismissed after lunch and captain Tim Paine followed soon after the tea break.

Peter Handscomb, unbeaten on 28, and fast bowler Pat Cummins, who had made 25, were at the crease when the rainclouds gathered over a Sydney Cricket Ground swathed in pink for the McGrath Foundation breast cancer support charity day.

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Play on Day 3 has been abandoned due to rain! 🌧️ 
 
Australia finish the day on 236/6, trailing by 386 runs, and we will have an early start tomorrow.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> SCORECARD ⬇️<a href="https://t.co/c2fCH8UcMc">https://t.co/c2fCH8UcMc</a> <a href="https://t.co/eUSH2Woxo6">pic.twitter.com/eUSH2Woxo6</a>
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India spinners picked up five wickets out of the six that fell on a rain-affected Day 3 of the final Test at the SCG. 
 
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Most of the Australian batsmen made starts but only opener Harris was able to get past the half-century mark -- his 79 the highest score by the home side in a series during which India have pillaged five centuries.

The left-hander showed plenty of intent but just when it seemed he could be heading for a maiden Test ton he calamitously played the ball onto his own stumps off the bowling of Ravindra Jadeja.

India's disciplined pace attack played a leading role in the victories in Adelaide and Melbourne that gave the tourists a 2-1 series lead coming to Sydney but it was the spinners who did most of the damage on Saturday.

Jadeja (2-62) also accounted for Marsh, who must surely have exhausted his supply of Test recalls after departing for eight having left his bat hanging to gift Ajinkya Rahane the simplest of catches at first slip.

Rahane had to work considerably harder for the catch at short midwicket that dismissed Labuschagne (38), diving low to his left to grab the ball with both hands off the bowling of quick Mohammed Shami.

Kuldeep Yadav (3-71) made Travis Head his second victim of the day shortly before tea, the batsman charging down the track to take on the left-arm wrist spinner only to send the ball straight back to him for the catch.

Paine gave the 24-year-old his third wicket, a peach of a delivery that clean bowled the Australia captain through his gaping gate for five.

The surface that India's batsmen had plundered almost at will for two days was still offering little movement for the bowlers and the Australians will be cursing themselves for some soft dismissals after the solid start to the day.

The openers had put on 72 when Usman Khawaja, moved up from number three to replace the dropped Aaron Finch, miscued a slog off Kuldeep to depart for 27 in the opening session.

Australia's batting woes returned on the third day of the fourth Test on Saturday and they had slumped to 236 for six when bad light and rain brought an early end to their response to India's mammoth first-innings tally of 622-7 declared.

Australia's batting woes returned on the third day of the fourth Test on Saturday and they had slumped to 236 for six when bad light and rain brought an early end to their response to India's mammoth first-innings tally of 622-7 declared. The tourists only need a draw to claim a first series win in Australia and the home side's hopes of preventing even that faded as they blew a solid start to lose five wickets after lunch. Marcus Harris, Marnus Labuschagne, Shaun Marsh and Travis Head were all dismissed after lunch and captain Tim Paine followed soon after the tea break. Peter Handscomb, unbeaten on 28, and fast bowler Pat Cummins, who had made 25, were at the crease when the rainclouds gathered over a Sydney Cricket Ground swathed in pink for the McGrath Foundation breast cancer support charity day. Play on Day 3 has been abandoned due to rain! 🌧️ Australia finish the day on 236/6, trailing by 386 runs, and we will have an early start tomorrow.#AUSvIND SCORECARD ⬇️https://t.co/c2fCH8UcMc pic.twitter.com/eUSH2Woxo6 — ICC (@ICC) January 5, 2019 × India spinners picked up five wickets out of the six that fell on a rain-affected Day 3 of the final Test at the SCG. Marcus Harris top-scored with 79 for Australia.#AUSvIND REPORT 🔽https://t.co/zq4nC9UXGw pic.twitter.com/YQBtzyMCsr — ICC (@ICC) January 5, 2019 × Most of the Australian batsmen made starts but only opener Harris was able to get past the half-century mark -- his 79 the highest score by the home side in a series during which India have pillaged five centuries. The left-hander showed plenty of intent but just when it seemed he could be heading for a maiden Test ton he calamitously played the ball onto his own stumps off the bowling of Ravindra Jadeja. India's disciplined pace attack played a leading role in the victories in Adelaide and Melbourne that gave the tourists a 2-1 series lead coming to Sydney but it was the spinners who did most of the damage on Saturday. Jadeja (2-62) also accounted for Marsh, who must surely have exhausted his supply of Test recalls after departing for eight having left his bat hanging to gift Ajinkya Rahane the simplest of catches at first slip. Rahane had to work considerably harder for the catch at short midwicket that dismissed Labuschagne (38), diving low to his left to grab the ball with both hands off the bowling of quick Mohammed Shami. Kuldeep Yadav (3-71) made Travis Head his second victim of the day shortly before tea, the batsman charging down the track to take on the left-arm wrist spinner only to send the ball straight back to him for the catch. Paine gave the 24-year-old his third wicket, a peach of a delivery that clean bowled the Australia captain through his gaping gate for five. The surface that India's batsmen had plundered almost at will for two days was still offering little movement for the bowlers and the Australians will be cursing themselves for some soft dismissals after the solid start to the day. The openers had put on 72 when Usman Khawaja, moved up from number three to replace the dropped Aaron Finch, miscued a slog off Kuldeep to depart for 27 in the opening session.

India vs Australia, 4th Test, Day 3: Australia stumble in reply to India's mammoth total

Indian batsman KL Rahul won hearts by his act of honesty while fielding on the third day of fourth and final Test of India-Australia series at Sydney Cricket Ground.&nbsp;

The incident happened when Australian batsman Marcus Harris survived a close call batting on 24 when a diving KL Rahul narrowly missed a catch.&nbsp;

Rahul immediately signalled that it didn't carry and was bounced. He ensured that the umpires don't waste time going to the third umpire.

On-field umpire&nbsp;Ian Gould appreciated Rahul's honest act and gave him a thumbs up when other players started celebrating the wicket.&nbsp;

Opener Harris quickly found a groove with some crisp shots&nbsp;and&nbsp;went on to score&nbsp;79 off 120.

Watch the catch here:

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A good effort from Rahul and he immediately says it bounced. Great stuff. Umpire Gould a big fan of it <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CloseMatters?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CloseMatters</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/GilletteAU?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GilletteAU</a> <a href="https://t.co/7nA0H5Lsc7">pic.twitter.com/7nA0H5Lsc7</a>
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This looked out for all money, but brilliant honesty from KL Rahul to not hesitate in ruling it out. 
 
Umpire Ian Gould was certainly impressed. 
 
📺 Watch LIVE on Fox Cricket &amp; 📰 join our match centre: <a href="https://t.co/seDJz2Ba9X">https://t.co/seDJz2Ba9X</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/FFcpp84AyI">pic.twitter.com/FFcpp84AyI</a>
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Australia were left struggling at 236 for a loss of six wickets in their first innings in reply to India's colossal score of 622-7 when bad light stopped the play and early stumps on third day.&nbsp;

Play will start 30 minutes early on Sunday.&nbsp;

When the players walked off the field, Peter Handscomb and Pat Cummins were batting on 28 and 25, respectively, as Australia trailed India's first-innings total by 386 runs.&nbsp;

Unless Australia win, India will claim a first-ever series victory Down Under since they began touring here in 1947-48.&nbsp;

Indian batsman KL Rahul won hearts by his act of honesty while fielding on the third day of fourth and final Test of India-Australia series at Sydney Cricket Ground.

Indian batsman KL Rahul won hearts by his act of honesty while fielding on the third day of fourth and final Test of India-Australia series at Sydney Cricket Ground. The incident happened when Australian batsman Marcus Harris survived a close call batting on 24 when a diving KL Rahul narrowly missed a catch. Rahul immediately signalled that it didn't carry and was bounced. He ensured that the umpires don't waste time going to the third umpire. On-field umpire Ian Gould appreciated Rahul's honest act and gave him a thumbs up when other players started celebrating the wicket. Opener Harris quickly found a groove with some crisp shots and went on to score 79 off 120. Watch the catch here: A good effort from Rahul and he immediately says it bounced. Great stuff. Umpire Gould a big fan of it #CloseMatters#AUSvIND | @GilletteAU pic.twitter.com/7nA0H5Lsc7 — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) January 4, 2019 × This looked out for all money, but brilliant honesty from KL Rahul to not hesitate in ruling it out. Umpire Ian Gould was certainly impressed. 📺 Watch LIVE on Fox Cricket & 📰 join our match centre: https://t.co/seDJz2Ba9X #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/FFcpp84AyI — Fox Cricket (@FoxCricket) January 4, 2019 × Australia were left struggling at 236 for a loss of six wickets in their first innings in reply to India's colossal score of 622-7 when bad light stopped the play and early stumps on third day. Play will start 30 minutes early on Sunday. When the players walked off the field, Peter Handscomb and Pat Cummins were batting on 28 and 25, respectively, as Australia trailed India's first-innings total by 386 runs. Unless Australia win, India will claim a first-ever series victory Down Under since they began touring here in 1947-48.

Watch: KL Rahul earns praise from umpire for his honesty in Sydney Test, Twitter applauds

Indian wicket-keeper Rishabh Pant has been magnificent so far in the Test series against Australia. He slammed his second Test century in the first innings of the final Test on Friday at Sydney Cricket Ground.&nbsp;

The 21-year-old scored an unbeaten 159 runs off 189 balls to record the highest ever score by an Indian wicket-keeper in an away Test.&nbsp;

He also became the first Indian wicket-keeper to score a hundred on Australia soil.

In the ongoing Test series, Pant earned praises for his batting, wicket-keeping skills and good-humoured on-pitch banter.

Apart from that, the Sydney Test became even more interesting for Pant when a bunch of Indian fans started chanting his name from the SCG stands,&nbsp; singing a hilarious song.&nbsp;

The lyrics of the song goes as: 
"We've got Pant 
Rishab Pant 
I just don't think you’ll understand&nbsp; 
He'll hit you for a six 
He'll babysit your kids&nbsp; 
We’ve got Rishab Pant

The video was posted via the Twitter handle of @thebharatarmy [The Bharat Army], that claims to be the global Indian cricket supporters group.

Watch the song here:

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> 
We’ve got Pant 
Rishab Pant 
I just don’t think you’ll understand 
He’ll hit you for a six 
He’ll babysit your kids 
We’ve got Rishab Pant 
. 
. 
.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BharatArmySongBook?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BharatArmySongBook</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/RishabPant777?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RishabPant777</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BharatArmy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BharatArmy</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/12thMan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#12thMan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WeveGotPant?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WeveGotPant</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COTI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COTI</a> 🇮🇳👶🍼 <a href="https://t.co/ZiXaPWqi6M">pic.twitter.com/ZiXaPWqi6M</a>
— The Bharat Army (@thebharatarmy) <a href="https://twitter.com/thebharatarmy/status/1080987378590728193?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Earlier Pant, whose picture of holding Tim Paine's son along with the Australian skipper's wife Bonnie went viral after the "babysitter" banter by Paine.&nbsp;

The incident happened when Pant was batting in the Melbourne Test.&nbsp;

"Big MS (Dhoni) is back in the one-day squad too, we might get him (Pant) down to the (Hobart) Hurricanes we need a batter. Fancy that, Pantsy? Extend your little Aussie holiday. Beautiful town Hobart too, I'll get you a nice apartment on the waterfront. (I'll) have him over for dinner. Can you babysit? I'll take the wife to the movies one night and you'll look after the kids," Paine was heard saying on the stump mic.&nbsp;

However, Pant said, "That (banter) is also one of the methods to keep yourself positive and to keep yourself busy. "

Indian wicket-keeper Rishabh Pant has been magnificent so far in the Test series against Australia. He slammed his second Test century in the first innings of the final Test on Friday at Sydney Cricket Ground.

Indian wicket-keeper Rishabh Pant has been magnificent so far in the Test series against Australia. He slammed his second Test century in the first innings of the final Test on Friday at Sydney Cricket Ground. The 21-year-old scored an unbeaten 159 runs off 189 balls to record the highest ever score by an Indian wicket-keeper in an away Test. He also became the first Indian wicket-keeper to score a hundred on Australia soil. In the ongoing Test series, Pant earned praises for his batting, wicket-keeping skills and good-humoured on-pitch banter. Apart from that, the Sydney Test became even more interesting for Pant when a bunch of Indian fans started chanting his name from the SCG stands, singing a hilarious song. The lyrics of the song goes as: "We've got Pant Rishab Pant I just don't think you’ll understand He'll hit you for a six He'll babysit your kids We’ve got Rishab Pant The video was posted via the Twitter handle of @thebharatarmy [The Bharat Army], that claims to be the global Indian cricket supporters group. Watch the song here: #AUSvIND We’ve got Pant Rishab Pant I just don’t think you’ll understand He’ll hit you for a six He’ll babysit your kids We’ve got Rishab Pant . . .#BharatArmySongBook @RishabPant777 #BharatArmy #TeamIndia #12thMan #WeveGotPant #COTI 🇮🇳👶🍼 pic.twitter.com/ZiXaPWqi6M — The Bharat Army (@thebharatarmy) January 4, 2019 × Earlier Pant, whose picture of holding Tim Paine's son along with the Australian skipper's wife Bonnie went viral after the "babysitter" banter by Paine. The incident happened when Pant was batting in the Melbourne Test. "Big MS (Dhoni) is back in the one-day squad too, we might get him (Pant) down to the (Hobart) Hurricanes we need a batter. Fancy that, Pantsy? Extend your little Aussie holiday. Beautiful town Hobart too, I'll get you a nice apartment on the waterfront. (I'll) have him over for dinner. Can you babysit? I'll take the wife to the movies one night and you'll look after the kids," Paine was heard saying on the stump mic. However, Pant said, "That (banter) is also one of the methods to keep yourself positive and to keep yourself busy. "

Watch: Hilarious song composed for Rishabh Pant by fans

Australia scored a major breakthrough by snaring the key wicket of Cheteshwar Pujara soon after lunch at the fourth Test in Sydney Friday, with the classy Indian falling for 193.

The number three resumed on 130 after completing his third century of the summer on Thursday and hardly played a false stroke before he was caught and bowled by spinner Nathan Lyon. It left India on 418 for six.

It was a heartbreaking end for the stoic right-hander who just missed out a fourth Test double century. His knock lasted a marathon 373 balls with 22 fours.

He survived a review decision for caught behind on 12 and was dropped on 192 by Usman Khawaja from a difficult chance, but was otherwise faultless.

Pujara came to the crease when opener KL Rahul was out for nine and, as he has done all series, quickly dug in, soaking up the pressure and counter-attacking when he sees an opportunity.

Australia scored a major breakthrough by snaring the key wicket of Cheteshwar Pujara soon after lunch at the fourth Test in Sydney Friday, with the classy Indian falling for 193.

Australia scored a major breakthrough by snaring the key wicket of Cheteshwar Pujara soon after lunch at the fourth Test in Sydney Friday, with the classy Indian falling for 193. The number three resumed on 130 after completing his third century of the summer on Thursday and hardly played a false stroke before he was caught and bowled by spinner Nathan Lyon. It left India on 418 for six. It was a heartbreaking end for the stoic right-hander who just missed out a fourth Test double century. His knock lasted a marathon 373 balls with 22 fours. He survived a review decision for caught behind on 12 and was dropped on 192 by Usman Khawaja from a difficult chance, but was otherwise faultless. Pujara came to the crease when opener KL Rahul was out for nine and, as he has done all series, quickly dug in, soaking up the pressure and counter-attacking when he sees an opportunity.

India vs Australia, 4th Test: Cheteshwar Pujara misses double century, falls for 193

India vs Australia: List of records made on Day 2 of Sydney Test

Rishabh Pant slammed his second Test century while playing against Australia in the first innings of the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/indvsaus-4th-test-day-2-india-vs-australia-188106">final Test</a>&nbsp;on Friday at Sydney Cricket Ground.&nbsp;

He scored an unbeaten 159 runs off 189 balls to record the highest ever score by an Indian wicket-keeper in an away Test.&nbsp;

Pant overtook former Indian captain MS Dhoni, who had smashed 148 runs off 153 against Pakistan&nbsp;is 2006.&nbsp;

A list of highest scores by Asian wicket-keeper outside sub-continent:

159* Rishabh Pant in Sydney, 2019 
159 Mushfiqur Rahim, Wellington, 2017 
137 Moin Khan, Hamilton, 2003 
126 Dinesh Chandimal, Chester-le-Street, 2016

Earlier, he became the first India wicket-keeper to score a hundred in England, repeating the same, Pant also became the first India wicket-keeper to score a hundred in Australia.&nbsp;

The previous highest was Farokh Engineer's 89 at Adelaide in 1967.&nbsp;

Also, he's gone past Virat Kohli's tally this series and became the second-highest run-getter with 350 from seven innings.&nbsp;

Pant, whose innings featured 15 boundaries and one six and his ton came from a four off spinner Marnus Labuschagne.&nbsp;

With a marvellous feat at SCG, Pant completed his highest score in his fledging nine-Test career so far, earlier it&nbsp;was at the Oval against England last year when he hit 114.&nbsp;

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Rishabh Pant brings up his second Test century! A fantastic knock from the youngster to put India in a strong position! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> LIVE ➡️ <a href="https://t.co/c2fCH8CBUE">https://t.co/c2fCH8CBUE</a> <a href="https://t.co/JdPfBWSKCE">pic.twitter.com/JdPfBWSKCE</a>
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A marathon 193 by Cheteshwar Pujara and a quick-fire unbeaten 88 from Rishabh Pant steered India into a dominant position at the final Test Friday with Australia rapidly seeing their hopes of saving the series evaporate.&nbsp;

Calm and collected number three Pujara was finally caught and bowled by spinner Nathan Lyon after a batting masterclass that spanned a day-and-a-half and 373 balls.&nbsp;

The visitors lead the series 2-1 after winning the opening clash in Adelaide and the third one in Melbourne. Australia claimed victory in Perth.&nbsp;

If India, the world's top-ranked nation, win or draw in Sydney they will clinch the first-ever series in Australia since they began touring Down Under in 1947-48.&nbsp;

Rishabh Pant slammed his second Test century while playing against Australia in the first innings of the final Test on Friday at Sydney Cricket Ground. He scored an unbeaten 159 runs off 189 balls to record the highest ever score by an Indian wicket-keeper in an away Test.

Rishabh Pant slammed his second Test century while playing against Australia in the first innings of the final Test on Friday at Sydney Cricket Ground. He scored an unbeaten 159 runs off 189 balls to record the highest ever score by an Indian wicket-keeper in an away Test. Pant overtook former Indian captain MS Dhoni, who had smashed 148 runs off 153 against Pakistan is 2006. A list of highest scores by Asian wicket-keeper outside sub-continent: 159* Rishabh Pant in Sydney, 2019 159 Mushfiqur Rahim, Wellington, 2017 137 Moin Khan, Hamilton, 2003 126 Dinesh Chandimal, Chester-le-Street, 2016 Earlier, he became the first India wicket-keeper to score a hundred in England, repeating the same, Pant also became the first India wicket-keeper to score a hundred in Australia. The previous highest was Farokh Engineer's 89 at Adelaide in 1967. Also, he's gone past Virat Kohli's tally this series and became the second-highest run-getter with 350 from seven innings. Pant, whose innings featured 15 boundaries and one six and his ton came from a four off spinner Marnus Labuschagne. With a marvellous feat at SCG, Pant completed his highest score in his fledging nine-Test career so far, earlier it was at the Oval against England last year when he hit 114. Rishabh Pant brings up his second Test century! A fantastic knock from the youngster to put India in a strong position! #AUSvIND LIVE ➡️ https://t.co/c2fCH8CBUE pic.twitter.com/JdPfBWSKCE — ICC (@ICC) January 4, 2019 × A marathon 193 by Cheteshwar Pujara and a quick-fire unbeaten 88 from Rishabh Pant steered India into a dominant position at the final Test Friday with Australia rapidly seeing their hopes of saving the series evaporate. Calm and collected number three Pujara was finally caught and bowled by spinner Nathan Lyon after a batting masterclass that spanned a day-and-a-half and 373 balls. The visitors lead the series 2-1 after winning the opening clash in Adelaide and the third one in Melbourne. Australia claimed victory in Perth. If India, the world's top-ranked nation, win or draw in Sydney they will clinch the first-ever series in Australia since they began touring Down Under in 1947-48.

Rishabh Pant becomes first Indian wicket-keeper to slam century in Australia

Cheteshwar Pujara ground out a masterful 193 and Rishabh Pant smashed a magnificent unbeaten 159 as Australia's hopes of winning the match and saving the series were washed away by a torrent of Indian runs on day two of the fourth test on Friday.

Virat Kohli declared on 622 for seven an hour before the close of play when Ravindra Jadeja was dismissed for 81 and Usman Khawaja (5) and Marcus Harris (19) ushered Australia to stumps on 24 without loss.

Pujara came up seven runs short of his fourth double century but there can be little doubt that his nine-hour, 373-ball knock will almost certainly deliver India's first test series victory in Australia.

After a beautifully crafted innings, Pujara went with a whimper rather than a bang before tea, scooping the ball back down the wicket to be caught and bowled by wily off-spinner Nathan Lyon.

The 30-year-old's centuries in Adelaide and Melbourne went a long way to giving India a 2-1 series lead and there was relief as well as admiration in the standing ovation he received from the crowd when he finally headed back to the Member's Stand.

Once he had departed, Pant and Jadeja initially maintained his circumspection before throwing off the shackles and hammering home India's advantage with a partnership of 204.

Pant had a bit of a scare six runs short of his second test century when he was close to being run out but made his ground safely and reached the milestone off 137 balls with his eighth four - the first Indian wicketkeeper to do so in Australia.

Jadeja was soon twirling his bat in his trademark celebration of a half century, his 10th in tests, and for while it looked like Pant would overhaul Pujara with a maiden double century.

Australia's much vaunted pace attack were exhausted after two days' toiling for little reward in the Sydney heat and the wicket that finally precipitated the declaration came again from Lyon (4-178).

Jadeja stepped down the wicket to try and dominate the spinner but was deceived by the flight of the ball and bowled to end a 114-ball innings featuring seven fours and a six.

The hosts had started the day with hopes of making major inroads into India's batting order but were largely frustrated, even if Lyon removed Hanuma Vihari for 42 to break the 101-partnership with Pujara.

Pujara's almost chanceless innings -- he was dropped in the slips on 192 -- featured 22 fours and took his tally over the series to 521 runs at an average of 74.42.

Pant, whose innings featured 15 boundaries and one six, blotted his copy book in the final hour by dropping Khawaja behind the wickets but nothing was going to mar another dominant day for the tourists.

Cheteshwar Pujara ground out a masterful 193 and Rishabh Pant smashed a magnificent unbeaten 159 as Australia's hopes of winning the match and saving the series were washed away by a torrent of Indian runs on day two of the fourth test on Friday.

Cheteshwar Pujara ground out a masterful 193 and Rishabh Pant smashed a magnificent unbeaten 159 as Australia's hopes of winning the match and saving the series were washed away by a torrent of Indian runs on day two of the fourth test on Friday. Virat Kohli declared on 622 for seven an hour before the close of play when Ravindra Jadeja was dismissed for 81 and Usman Khawaja (5) and Marcus Harris (19) ushered Australia to stumps on 24 without loss. Pujara came up seven runs short of his fourth double century but there can be little doubt that his nine-hour, 373-ball knock will almost certainly deliver India's first test series victory in Australia. After a beautifully crafted innings, Pujara went with a whimper rather than a bang before tea, scooping the ball back down the wicket to be caught and bowled by wily off-spinner Nathan Lyon. The 30-year-old's centuries in Adelaide and Melbourne went a long way to giving India a 2-1 series lead and there was relief as well as admiration in the standing ovation he received from the crowd when he finally headed back to the Member's Stand. Once he had departed, Pant and Jadeja initially maintained his circumspection before throwing off the shackles and hammering home India's advantage with a partnership of 204. Pant had a bit of a scare six runs short of his second test century when he was close to being run out but made his ground safely and reached the milestone off 137 balls with his eighth four - the first Indian wicketkeeper to do so in Australia. Jadeja was soon twirling his bat in his trademark celebration of a half century, his 10th in tests, and for while it looked like Pant would overhaul Pujara with a maiden double century. Australia's much vaunted pace attack were exhausted after two days' toiling for little reward in the Sydney heat and the wicket that finally precipitated the declaration came again from Lyon (4-178). Jadeja stepped down the wicket to try and dominate the spinner but was deceived by the flight of the ball and bowled to end a 114-ball innings featuring seven fours and a six. The hosts had started the day with hopes of making major inroads into India's batting order but were largely frustrated, even if Lyon removed Hanuma Vihari for 42 to break the 101-partnership with Pujara. Pujara's almost chanceless innings -- he was dropped in the slips on 192 -- featured 22 fours and took his tally over the series to 521 runs at an average of 74.42. Pant, whose innings featured 15 boundaries and one six, blotted his copy book in the final hour by dropping Khawaja behind the wickets but nothing was going to mar another dominant day for the tourists.

India vs Australia, 4th Test, Day 2: Cheteshwar Pujara, Rishabh Pant put India in command of Sydney Test

Racing against time to be fit for the fourth and final Test against Australia starting Thursday, India's ace spinner Ravichandran Ashwin underwent a solo indoor bowling session at the SCG on Tuesday.

Ashwin, who was accompanied by physiotherapist Patrick Farhart and another support staff, bowled at the indoor centre facilities of the Sydney Cricket Ground while rest of the India squad took the day off.

The 32-year-old off-spinner missed the second and third Tests because of a side strain he sustained during the first Test win in Adelaide, where he claimed 6 for 149, his best match figures in seven Tests in Australia.

With the SCG pitch expected to be a turner, India are hoping for Ashwin's quick recovery before the final match of the four-Test series.

Racing against time to be fit for the fourth and final Test against Australia starting Thursday, India's ace spinner Ravichandran Ashwin underwent a solo indoor bowling session at the SCG on Tuesday.

Racing against time to be fit for the fourth and final Test against Australia starting Thursday, India's ace spinner Ravichandran Ashwin underwent a solo indoor bowling session at the SCG on Tuesday. Ashwin, who was accompanied by physiotherapist Patrick Farhart and another support staff, bowled at the indoor centre facilities of the Sydney Cricket Ground while rest of the India squad took the day off. The 32-year-old off-spinner missed the second and third Tests because of a side strain he sustained during the first Test win in Adelaide, where he claimed 6 for 149, his best match figures in seven Tests in Australia. With the SCG pitch expected to be a turner, India are hoping for Ashwin's quick recovery before the final match of the four-Test series.

Ashwin has bowling session ahead of Sydney Test

Overflowing with confidence and buoyed by the blossoming of a rare pace talent, India can sniff a first-ever series win on Australian soil ahead of the fourth and final Test in Sydney.

Led by <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/delighted-virat-kohli-praises-jasprit-bumrah-mayank-agarwal-after-3rd-test-victory-over-australia-187321">Jasprit Bumrah</a>'s series-leading 20 wickets, India's vaunted pace attack have hogged the spotlight this tour but the slow bowlers may get their turn to shine on the traditionally spin-friendly wicket at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

Leading the series 2-1 after the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-beat-australia-by-137-runs-to-win-melbourne-test-187279">137-run thrashing</a> of Tim Paine's depleted Australia in Melbourne on Sunday, Virat Kohli's team are in the box seat to shrug off the nation's history of underachievement Down Under.

The last Indian team to win two Tests in Australia was back in 1977-78 but the Bob Simpson-captained hosts claimed the fifth and final contest to break the hearts of Bishan Bedi's side.

After India outplayed Australia with bat and ball in Melbourne, Kohli is convinced India have the firepower to break new ground.

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Thank you to all the fans for the Love and support! A special win at The MCG. Next stop - SCG 🇮🇳 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/HR4FnnGEbA">pic.twitter.com/HR4FnnGEbA</a>
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"We're not shocked or very surprised by what's happened," he said after the MCG triumph.

"We always believed that it's very possible because of the talent we have in the side and the mindset that we've been carrying for the last 12 months, regardless of what's been said or the mistakes we've made.

"It's a great opportunity from the point of view that we always wanted to win a series away from home.

"The fact that the boys realised we worked so hard to be here now and there is no looking back, it's the last Test of the series and you have to give everything you have to win a series, and that was our goal from day one."

India's sole defeat in the series came without a spinner at Perth, when the team went with four pace bowlers in a much-criticised selection. Australia spinner Nathan Lyon took a bag of wickets to be named man-of-the-match.

Left-arm spinner Ravindra Jadeja was selected in Melbourne and supported the quicks with five wickets, while Ravichandran Ashwin continued his recovery from an abdominal strain.

Ashwin took six wickets and was instrumental in the series-opening win in Adelaide, so India may be keen to unleash a dual spin bowling attack against Australia's ill-at-ease batsmen.

"It depends on the pitch. I think Ashwin's very close to being match fit," Kohli said. "He's been bowling a lot of overs and I'm sure these next four days will make him even stronger.

"Regardless, being the last Test match I think he will be willing to push himself and start for the team but again it depends on what type of pitch we get for Sydney."

Plagued by worries over their opening pair after Perth, India solved one half of the equation by blooding Mayank Agarwal, who enjoyed a stellar debut with a 76 in the first innings and three catches in the match.

With 42 in the second innings, Agarwal's total of 118 runs for the match was a record for an Indian debutant in Australia.

Spin bowling all-rounder Hanuma Vihari, promoted from number six after Perth, was less assured in his debut as an opener, scoring eight and 13.

He could make way for fit-again seam-bowling all-rounder Hardik Pandya should selectors opt for two spinners.

Kohli, however, praised Vihari for soaking up 111 deliveries in the Melbourne Test and may be reluctant to fiddle too much with a winning combination.

Overflowing with confidence and buoyed by the blossoming of a rare pace talent, India can sniff a first-ever series win on Australian soil ahead of the fourth and final Test in Sydney.

Overflowing with confidence and buoyed by the blossoming of a rare pace talent, India can sniff a first-ever series win on Australian soil ahead of the fourth and final Test in Sydney. Led by Jasprit Bumrah's series-leading 20 wickets, India's vaunted pace attack have hogged the spotlight this tour but the slow bowlers may get their turn to shine on the traditionally spin-friendly wicket at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Leading the series 2-1 after the 137-run thrashing of Tim Paine's depleted Australia in Melbourne on Sunday, Virat Kohli's team are in the box seat to shrug off the nation's history of underachievement Down Under. The last Indian team to win two Tests in Australia was back in 1977-78 but the Bob Simpson-captained hosts claimed the fifth and final contest to break the hearts of Bishan Bedi's side. After India outplayed Australia with bat and ball in Melbourne, Kohli is convinced India have the firepower to break new ground. Thank you to all the fans for the Love and support! A special win at The MCG. Next stop - SCG 🇮🇳 #TeamIndia #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/HR4FnnGEbA — BCCI (@BCCI) December 30, 2018 × "We're not shocked or very surprised by what's happened," he said after the MCG triumph. "We always believed that it's very possible because of the talent we have in the side and the mindset that we've been carrying for the last 12 months, regardless of what's been said or the mistakes we've made. "It's a great opportunity from the point of view that we always wanted to win a series away from home. "The fact that the boys realised we worked so hard to be here now and there is no looking back, it's the last Test of the series and you have to give everything you have to win a series, and that was our goal from day one." India's sole defeat in the series came without a spinner at Perth, when the team went with four pace bowlers in a much-criticised selection. Australia spinner Nathan Lyon took a bag of wickets to be named man-of-the-match. Left-arm spinner Ravindra Jadeja was selected in Melbourne and supported the quicks with five wickets, while Ravichandran Ashwin continued his recovery from an abdominal strain. Ashwin took six wickets and was instrumental in the series-opening win in Adelaide, so India may be keen to unleash a dual spin bowling attack against Australia's ill-at-ease batsmen. "It depends on the pitch. I think Ashwin's very close to being match fit," Kohli said. "He's been bowling a lot of overs and I'm sure these next four days will make him even stronger. "Regardless, being the last Test match I think he will be willing to push himself and start for the team but again it depends on what type of pitch we get for Sydney." Plagued by worries over their opening pair after Perth, India solved one half of the equation by blooding Mayank Agarwal, who enjoyed a stellar debut with a 76 in the first innings and three catches in the match. With 42 in the second innings, Agarwal's total of 118 runs for the match was a record for an Indian debutant in Australia. Spin bowling all-rounder Hanuma Vihari, promoted from number six after Perth, was less assured in his debut as an opener, scoring eight and 13. He could make way for fit-again seam-bowling all-rounder Hardik Pandya should selectors opt for two spinners. Kohli, however, praised Vihari for soaking up 111 deliveries in the Melbourne Test and may be reluctant to fiddle too much with a winning combination.

Virat Kohli-led India sniff maiden series win in Sydney

India's star batsman Rohit Sharma will miss the fourth and final Test match against Australia as he has flown down to India to be with his with his wife Ritika Sajdeh as the couple is blessed with a baby girl.&nbsp;

The official Twitter handle of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) informed that Rohit Sharma will join the one-day squad on January 8. It means, he will miss the Sydney Test which is scheduled to start from January&nbsp;3.

Rohit and Ritika got married in the year 2015 and&nbsp;BCCI congratulated him "on the beginning of a new chapter in his life".

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Update - Rohit Sharma to join ODI squad on 8th January 
 
India batsman <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRo45?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImRo45</a> left for Mumbai on the 30th of December to attend to his wife who has delivered a baby girl. The BCCI congratulates Rohit on the beginning of a new chapter in his life. <a href="https://t.co/7jokivuLGT">pic.twitter.com/7jokivuLGT</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1079624898358607872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">31 December 2018</a></blockquote>
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Rohit Sharma returned after missing the second Test and scored&nbsp;a crucial 63* in the first innings as India registered a comfortable win by 137 runs.

After the win, India lead the four-match series 2-1 and Virat Kohli's team are in the box seat to shrug off the nation's history of underachievement Down Under.

The last Indian team to win two Tests in Australia was back in 1977-78 but the Bob Simpson-captained hosts claimed the fifth and final contest to break the hearts of Bishan Bedi's side.

India's star batsman Rohit Sharma will miss the fourth and final Test match against Australia as he has flown down to India to be with his with his wife Ritika Sajdeh as the couple is blessed with a baby girl.

India's star batsman Rohit Sharma will miss the fourth and final Test match against Australia as he has flown down to India to be with his with his wife Ritika Sajdeh as the couple is blessed with a baby girl. The official Twitter handle of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) informed that Rohit Sharma will join the one-day squad on January 8. It means, he will miss the Sydney Test which is scheduled to start from January 3. Rohit and Ritika got married in the year 2015 and BCCI congratulated him "on the beginning of a new chapter in his life". Update - Rohit Sharma to join ODI squad on 8th January India batsman @ImRo45 left for Mumbai on the 30th of December to attend to his wife who has delivered a baby girl. The BCCI congratulates Rohit on the beginning of a new chapter in his life. pic.twitter.com/7jokivuLGT — BCCI (@BCCI) 31 December 2018 × Rohit Sharma returned after missing the second Test and scored a crucial 63* in the first innings as India registered a comfortable win by 137 runs. After the win, India lead the four-match series 2-1 and Virat Kohli's team are in the box seat to shrug off the nation's history of underachievement Down Under. The last Indian team to win two Tests in Australia was back in 1977-78 but the Bob Simpson-captained hosts claimed the fifth and final contest to break the hearts of Bishan Bedi's side.

Rohit Sharma blessed with baby girl, will miss Sydney Test

Australia have retained the same 13-man squad for the remaining two matches in Melbourne and Sydney after beating India in the second Test in Perth, the country's cricket board said on Tuesday.

The hosts beat the world's top-ranked Test side by 146 runs at the Perth Stadium to level the series at 1-1 after the opening loss in Adelaide.

Uncapped paceman Chris Tremain will continue to remain out of the squad after being released before the Perth match, Cricket Australia (CA) said in a statement.

"With Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Peter Siddle in the squad we believe we have enough fast bowlers to choose from, so we've made the decision to stick with the 13 person squad for the remaining two Test matches against India," national selector Trevor Hohns said.

"We believe it's important to keep this group together to build on the momentum we have established in Perth."

Melbourne will host the traditional Boxing Day Test before the final match is played at the Sydney Cricket Ground from January 3.

Squad: Pat Cummins, Aaron Finch, Peter Handscomb, Marcus Harris, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Nathan Lyon, Mitch Marsh, Shaun Marsh, Tim Paine (captain), Peter Siddle, Mitchell Starc

Australia have retained the same 13-man squad for the remaining two matches in Melbourne and Sydney after beating India in the second Test in Perth, the country's cricket board said on Tuesday.

Australia have retained the same 13-man squad for the remaining two matches in Melbourne and Sydney after beating India in the second Test in Perth, the country's cricket board said on Tuesday. The hosts beat the world's top-ranked Test side by 146 runs at the Perth Stadium to level the series at 1-1 after the opening loss in Adelaide. Uncapped paceman Chris Tremain will continue to remain out of the squad after being released before the Perth match, Cricket Australia (CA) said in a statement. "With Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Peter Siddle in the squad we believe we have enough fast bowlers to choose from, so we've made the decision to stick with the 13 person squad for the remaining two Test matches against India," national selector Trevor Hohns said. "We believe it's important to keep this group together to build on the momentum we have established in Perth." Melbourne will host the traditional Boxing Day Test before the final match is played at the Sydney Cricket Ground from January 3. Squad: Pat Cummins, Aaron Finch, Peter Handscomb, Marcus Harris, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Nathan Lyon, Mitch Marsh, Shaun Marsh, Tim Paine (captain), Peter Siddle, Mitchell Starc

Australia rely on unchanged squad for last two India Tests

England&#39;s maligned tail piled on runs before the tourists were bowled out for 346 in their first innings at lunch on the second day of the final Ashes Test here today.

Newcomer Tom Curran smacked 39 off 65 balls and Stuart Broad clubbed two sixes in his 31 off 32 balls as England lashed out late in the extended morning session.

Steve Smith pulled off a stunning one-handed catch to dismiss Dawid Malan for 62, but the Australians were guilty of two embarrassing dropped catches to give England a helping hand. 
The Australian skipper made an athletic diving catch to end the dangerous batsman&#39;s innings inside the opening half- hour&#39;s play. 
Smith, who had dropped his previous three chances over the last two Tests, flung out his left-hand at second slip to make the catch off Mitchell Starc.

Malan, who was dropped by Smith at slip on Thursday&#39;s opening day on 34, was not so fortunate this time to end his four-hour stay off 180 balls.

Malan, who hit a century in the third Perth Test, has scored 378 runs at 47.25 in the series, second only to Alastair Cook for England. 
It was another outstanding catch by Australia in the innings following Mitchell Marsh&#39;s flying effort to dismiss Joe Root for 83 yesterday.

But Australia then dropped two regulation catches in the space of four balls nearing drinks.

Pat Cummins put down Curran on 21 at mid-on off Nathan Lyon than in Cummins&#39; next over Josh Hazlewood made a dreadful hash of a skied catch at mid-on from Moeen Ali on 22.

It was the 11th dropped catch by Australia&#39;s fielders in the series, with five coming off Lyon&#39;s bowling.

But Cummins made partial amends when he had Moeen caught off his glove to a lifter for 30, giving wicketkeeper Tim Paine his fourth catch of the innings.

Broad and Curran hit out late in the session with Broad clubbing Cummins for two sixes to the delight of England&#39;s Barmy Army supporters.

He finally fell to a bat-pad catch by Cameron Bancroft for 39 off 65 balls to give Cummins his fourth wicket.

Broad went for another heave on 31, only to top-edge behind the wicket for Smith to take the catch and give spinner Lyon his only wicket.

Debutant Mason Crane was the last man out, run out for four.

Australia has already clinched the Ashes with an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-Test series.

Australia has already clinched the Ashes with an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-Test series.

England's maligned tail piled on runs before the tourists were bowled out for 346 in their first innings at lunch on the second day of the final Ashes Test here today. Newcomer Tom Curran smacked 39 off 65 balls and Stuart Broad clubbed two sixes in his 31 off 32 balls as England lashed out late in the extended morning session. Steve Smith pulled off a stunning one-handed catch to dismiss Dawid Malan for 62, but the Australians were guilty of two embarrassing dropped catches to give England a helping hand. The Australian skipper made an athletic diving catch to end the dangerous batsman's innings inside the opening half- hour's play. Smith, who had dropped his previous three chances over the last two Tests, flung out his left-hand at second slip to make the catch off Mitchell Starc. Malan, who was dropped by Smith at slip on Thursday's opening day on 34, was not so fortunate this time to end his four-hour stay off 180 balls. Malan, who hit a century in the third Perth Test, has scored 378 runs at 47.25 in the series, second only to Alastair Cook for England. It was another outstanding catch by Australia in the innings following Mitchell Marsh's flying effort to dismiss Joe Root for 83 yesterday. But Australia then dropped two regulation catches in the space of four balls nearing drinks. Pat Cummins put down Curran on 21 at mid-on off Nathan Lyon than in Cummins' next over Josh Hazlewood made a dreadful hash of a skied catch at mid-on from Moeen Ali on 22. It was the 11th dropped catch by Australia's fielders in the series, with five coming off Lyon's bowling. But Cummins made partial amends when he had Moeen caught off his glove to a lifter for 30, giving wicketkeeper Tim Paine his fourth catch of the innings. Broad and Curran hit out late in the session with Broad clubbing Cummins for two sixes to the delight of England's Barmy Army supporters. He finally fell to a bat-pad catch by Cameron Bancroft for 39 off 65 balls to give Cummins his fourth wicket. Broad went for another heave on 31, only to top-edge behind the wicket for Smith to take the catch and give spinner Lyon his only wicket. Debutant Mason Crane was the last man out, run out for four. Australia has already clinched the Ashes with an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-Test series.

Ashes 2017-18: Tail wags as England all out for 346 in Sydney Test

&nbsp;

David Warner clubbed the second fastest half-century in Test history to help fire Australia to the verge of a 3-0 series sweep over Pakistan at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

The tourists were 55 for one at close of play on the rain-disrupted fourth day of the third Test, still&nbsp;410 runs short of their unlikely victory target of 465.

Warner needed just 23 balls to score his half-century - two more than the record set by Pakistan skipper Misbah-ul-Haq against Australia&nbsp;in Abu Dhabi in 2014 - to help the hosts knock off 241-2 before declaring after tea.

Steve Smith (59), Usman Khawaja (79 not out) and Peter Handscomb (40 not out) also poured on the runs after Warner was dismissed for a swashbuckling 55 off 27 deliveries.

&quot;The way the guys batted today, especially Warner&nbsp;of course, to get those runs as quickly as possible and do some pretty unselfish batting, and got us in the position we are in now,&quot; said paceman Josh Hazlewood, who took 4-55.

&quot;The wicket&#39;s still pretty good, but I think there&#39;s enough there to create nine more chances, if it&#39;s reverse swing or spin.&quot;&nbsp;

Earlier, after the opening session was washed out for the second day in a row, Younus Khan completed an imperious 175 not out before running out of partners as Pakistan were dismissed for 315, still 223 behind Australia&#39;s first innings 538-8.

Khawaja opened in his place but spent his first 40 minutes mostly a spectator as Warner, who on Tuesday become the first batsman to score a century in the opening session of a Test in Australia, again attacked the Pakistan bowlers.&nbsp;Warner slapped a four over midwicket from the first ball he faced and had added 10 more boundaries by the time Wahab Riaz removed him&nbsp;some 42 minutes later.&nbsp;In one stunning over, the left-hander smashed spinner Yasir for two sixes and two fours from the first four deliveries before adding a single off the fifth for good measure.&nbsp;

&quot;We want to finish this Test series on a good note, so I think it will be better for us if we show some fight,&quot; Younus said.

&quot;It will not be easy because it is the fifth day&nbsp;in Sydney and they have two spinners and good fast bowlers as well. It is our wish that we finish this Test match on a good note,&quot; the Pakistani batting legend added.

David Warner clubbed the second fastest half-century against Pakistan on the fourth day of the Sydney Test.

David Warner clubbed the second fastest half-century in Test history to help fire Australia to the verge of a 3-0 series sweep over Pakistan at the Sydney Cricket Ground. The tourists were 55 for one at close of play on the rain-disrupted fourth day of the third Test, still 410 runs short of their unlikely victory target of 465. Warner needed just 23 balls to score his half-century - two more than the record set by Pakistan skipper Misbah-ul-Haq against Australia in Abu Dhabi in 2014 - to help the hosts knock off 241-2 before declaring after tea. Steve Smith (59), Usman Khawaja (79 not out) and Peter Handscomb (40 not out) also poured on the runs after Warner was dismissed for a swashbuckling 55 off 27 deliveries. "The way the guys batted today, especially Warner of course, to get those runs as quickly as possible and do some pretty unselfish batting, and got us in the position we are in now," said paceman Josh Hazlewood, who took 4-55. "The wicket's still pretty good, but I think there's enough there to create nine more chances, if it's reverse swing or spin." Earlier, after the opening session was washed out for the second day in a row, Younus Khan completed an imperious 175 not out before running out of partners as Pakistan were dismissed for 315, still 223 behind Australia's first innings 538-8. Khawaja opened in his place but spent his first 40 minutes mostly a spectator as Warner, who on Tuesday become the first batsman to score a century in the opening session of a Test in Australia, again attacked the Pakistan bowlers. Warner slapped a four over midwicket from the first ball he faced and had added 10 more boundaries by the time Wahab Riaz removed him some 42 minutes later. In one stunning over, the left-hander smashed spinner Yasir for two sixes and two fours from the first four deliveries before adding a single off the fifth for good measure. "We want to finish this Test series on a good note, so I think it will be better for us if we show some fight," Younus said. "It will not be easy because it is the fifth day in Sydney and they have two spinners and good fast bowlers as well. It is our wish that we finish this Test match on a good note," the Pakistani batting legend added.

Cricket: David Warner puts Australia on top

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