<p>The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 edition is set to kick off on March 31 in Ahmedabad. Over the years, IPL has become a big success as it allows fans to see Indian players compete with one another and also share as well as rub shoulders with some uncapped and big international cricketers.</p>

<p>The IPL started in 2008 and has become a huge brand nationwide. But before IPL became a revelation, the&nbsp;Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) used to conduct the Challengers Trophy. It was a tournament that began in 1993-94 and was held till&nbsp;the 2013-14 season (not played in 2002-03), every October before the Ranji Trophy with an aim to give young and domestic players&nbsp;a chance to showcase their skills while playing with, and against, the senior&nbsp;Team India players.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the 2006 edition of the Challengers Trophy, India's famed trio of Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, and Sourav Ganguly -- in the last phase of their respective careers -- were divided among two teams. The then national captains&nbsp;Dravid and Tendulkar were part of the India Blues whereas Ganguly was in Mohammed Kaif-led India Greens. Venugopal Rao led the India Reds with Dravid leading India Blues.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wouldnt-have-applied-if-virat-kohli-had-not-approached-me-sehwag-recalls-being-offered-india-coach-job-574147">Wouldn’t have applied if Virat Kohli had not approached me: Sehwag recalls being offered India coach job</a></strong></p>

<p>In&nbsp;the second game of the&nbsp;competition, Dravid-led India Blues squared off with India Greens.&nbsp;<strong>Here's a throwback video of when Ganguly bowled to Dravid and Tendulkar:</strong></p>

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<p>Talking about the contest, Dravid-led India Blues thrashed India Greens by a whopping 266-run margin courtesy of Tendulkar's 139 and half-centuries from Dravid, MS Dhoni, and Irfan Pathan. Chasing 382, India Greens fell for 115 with Parthiv Patel (43) and Ganguly (24) being the top run-getters. The tournament was held in Chennai, which eventually saw India Blues and India Reds share the trophy after a rain-abandoned finale.</p>

<p>When IPL kicked off, Dravid went on to lead Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) whereas Ganguly represented the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and&nbsp;now-defunct Pune Warriors (PWI). Meanwhile, Tendulkar was part of the Mumbai Indians (MI) and&nbsp;remains their team mentor while Ganguly has rejoined Delhi Capitals (DC) as the Director of Cricket Operations for IPL 2023. Dravid isn't part of the IPL at present as he is India's head coach.</p>


The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 edition is set to kick off on March 31 in Ahmedabad. Over the years, IPL has become a big success as it allows fans to see Indian players compete with one another and also share as well as rub shoulders with some uncapped and big international cricketers.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 edition is set to kick off on March 31 in Ahmedabad. Over the years, IPL has become a big success as it allows fans to see Indian players compete with one another and also share as well as rub shoulders with some uncapped and big international cricketers. The IPL started in 2008 and has become a huge brand nationwide. But before IPL became a revelation, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) used to conduct the Challengers Trophy. It was a tournament that began in 1993-94 and was held till the 2013-14 season (not played in 2002-03), every October before the Ranji Trophy with an aim to give young and domestic players a chance to showcase their skills while playing with, and against, the senior Team India players. During the 2006 edition of the Challengers Trophy, India's famed trio of Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, and Sourav Ganguly -- in the last phase of their respective careers -- were divided among two teams. The then national captains Dravid and Tendulkar were part of the India Blues whereas Ganguly was in Mohammed Kaif-led India Greens. Venugopal Rao led the India Reds with Dravid leading India Blues. Also read: Wouldn’t have applied if Virat Kohli had not approached me: Sehwag recalls being offered India coach job In the second game of the competition, Dravid-led India Blues squared off with India Greens. Here's a throwback video of when Ganguly bowled to Dravid and Tendulkar: × Talking about the contest, Dravid-led India Blues thrashed India Greens by a whopping 266-run margin courtesy of Tendulkar's 139 and half-centuries from Dravid, MS Dhoni, and Irfan Pathan. Chasing 382, India Greens fell for 115 with Parthiv Patel (43) and Ganguly (24) being the top run-getters. The tournament was held in Chennai, which eventually saw India Blues and India Reds share the trophy after a rain-abandoned finale. When IPL kicked off, Dravid went on to lead Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) whereas Ganguly represented the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and now-defunct Pune Warriors (PWI). Meanwhile, Tendulkar was part of the Mumbai Indians (MI) and remains their team mentor while Ganguly has rejoined Delhi Capitals (DC) as the Director of Cricket Operations for IPL 2023. Dravid isn't part of the IPL at present as he is India's head coach.

Throwback: Before IPL became a thing! When Ganguly bowled to teammates Tendulkar, Dravid - Watch

<p>Team India lost the second and penultimate ODI versus Australia in Visakhapatnam on Sunday (March 19). Mitchell Starc's five-fer bundled out India for a paltry 117 as Australia chased down the target with 234 balls to spare; levelling the series 1-1 before the final game on Wednesday (March 22).&nbsp;</p>

<p>India will be desperate to bounce back to winning ways and clinch the series as they continue their preparations for the 2023 ODI World Cup, to be held in India entirely in October-November. Rohit Sharma &amp; Co., the No. 1 ranked ODI side, is one of the favourites for the marquee event, especially with them being the hosts. The last time the 50-over World Cup was held in India was in 2011, with Sri Lanka and Bangladesh also being the co-hosts, when MS Dhoni-led Men in Blue won the championship.</p>

<p>Although India will be strong contenders, Pakistan's former captain and all-rounder Mohammad Hafeez feels the hosts are a strong outfit but lack in one aspect, i.e. of 'not able to perform in the big matches' and will have a point to prove to the world in the 2023 edition.</p>

<p>"Hot favourites are India. India have a big plus point because in the recent past, I feel like it started from the era of Ganguly. They have the mindset of a world-beater. From there, MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli carried on. In the recent past, say in the last 10-12 years, wherever India are playing, they are considered as hot favourites. That is special from India," Hafeez said while speaking to Sports Tak on the sidelines of the Legends League Cricket.</p>

<p>"And when the tournaments happen in India, when big matches happen in India, in bilateral series, oppositions have very little chance. Their success rate is very high. But, when big tournaments come, I think India are lacking in just one aspect. In the recent past, in ICC events, they are not able to perform in the big matches.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/viral-shahid-afridi-signs-on-indian-flag-for-a-fan-during-legends-league-cricket-watch-573745">Viral: Shahid Afridi signs on Indian flag for a fan during Legends League Cricket - Watch</a></strong></p>

<p>"You can describe it many ways, but the pressure of playing in knockout matches in ICC events, that is not there in bilateral series. It's quite similar to playing domestic cricket and international cricket. It's difficult to describe the pressure of playing in ICC knockout matches. India have not been able to handle that pressure in major events.</p>

<p>"They have lost crunch matches, against England they lost the semi-final. In 2017, in the Champions Trophy final, they lost. Then also, they were favourites. This is a pinching point as far as India are concerned. India now have a point to prove to the world. They should come and perform well in ICC major events," Hafeez added.</p>

<p>India's last ICC title, in the senior men's category, came in 2013 during the Champions Trophy in England and Wales.</p>

<p>On Babar Azam-led Pakistan's chances, the 42-year-old Hafeez stated, "Pakistan also will have their chances. They have one of the most versatile and lethal bowling attacks in the world. If you look at the fast-bowlers, they are match-winners. If you look at Shaheen Afridi, if he is fit and firing, the entire world wants to watch him in action. When you talk about spin-bowling, there are Shadab Khan, Imad Wasim and Mohammad Nawaz. There is a new young pace-bowling talent in Ihsanullah, he can also bowl in excess of 150 kph and hit the good areas.</p>

<p>"Pakistan playing in India have to also deal with pressure. Playing in India will mean a lot of pressure. A lot will depend on how much momentum Pakistan take into the World Cup and how the dressing room atmosphere is created to deal with pressure," he concluded.</p>


Team India lost the second and penultimate ODI versus Australia in Visakhapatnam on Sunday (March 19). Mitchell Starc's five-fer bundled out India for a paltry 117 as Australia chased down the target with 234 balls to spare; levelling the series 1-1 before the final game on Wednesday (March 22).

Team India lost the second and penultimate ODI versus Australia in Visakhapatnam on Sunday (March 19). Mitchell Starc's five-fer bundled out India for a paltry 117 as Australia chased down the target with 234 balls to spare; levelling the series 1-1 before the final game on Wednesday (March 22). India will be desperate to bounce back to winning ways and clinch the series as they continue their preparations for the 2023 ODI World Cup, to be held in India entirely in October-November. Rohit Sharma & Co., the No. 1 ranked ODI side, is one of the favourites for the marquee event, especially with them being the hosts. The last time the 50-over World Cup was held in India was in 2011, with Sri Lanka and Bangladesh also being the co-hosts, when MS Dhoni-led Men in Blue won the championship. Although India will be strong contenders, Pakistan's former captain and all-rounder Mohammad Hafeez feels the hosts are a strong outfit but lack in one aspect, i.e. of 'not able to perform in the big matches' and will have a point to prove to the world in the 2023 edition. "Hot favourites are India. India have a big plus point because in the recent past, I feel like it started from the era of Ganguly. They have the mindset of a world-beater. From there, MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli carried on. In the recent past, say in the last 10-12 years, wherever India are playing, they are considered as hot favourites. That is special from India," Hafeez said while speaking to Sports Tak on the sidelines of the Legends League Cricket. "And when the tournaments happen in India, when big matches happen in India, in bilateral series, oppositions have very little chance. Their success rate is very high. But, when big tournaments come, I think India are lacking in just one aspect. In the recent past, in ICC events, they are not able to perform in the big matches. Also read: Viral: Shahid Afridi signs on Indian flag for a fan during Legends League Cricket - Watch "You can describe it many ways, but the pressure of playing in knockout matches in ICC events, that is not there in bilateral series. It's quite similar to playing domestic cricket and international cricket. It's difficult to describe the pressure of playing in ICC knockout matches. India have not been able to handle that pressure in major events. "They have lost crunch matches, against England they lost the semi-final. In 2017, in the Champions Trophy final, they lost. Then also, they were favourites. This is a pinching point as far as India are concerned. India now have a point to prove to the world. They should come and perform well in ICC major events," Hafeez added. India's last ICC title, in the senior men's category, came in 2013 during the Champions Trophy in England and Wales. On Babar Azam-led Pakistan's chances, the 42-year-old Hafeez stated, "Pakistan also will have their chances. They have one of the most versatile and lethal bowling attacks in the world. If you look at the fast-bowlers, they are match-winners. If you look at Shaheen Afridi, if he is fit and firing, the entire world wants to watch him in action. When you talk about spin-bowling, there are Shadab Khan, Imad Wasim and Mohammad Nawaz. There is a new young pace-bowling talent in Ihsanullah, he can also bowl in excess of 150 kph and hit the good areas. "Pakistan playing in India have to also deal with pressure. Playing in India will mean a lot of pressure. A lot will depend on how much momentum Pakistan take into the World Cup and how the dressing room atmosphere is created to deal with pressure," he concluded.

'India have a point to prove': Md Hafeez on Rohit Sharma & Co.'s chances at 2023 ODI World Cup

<p>Virender Sehwag had a stellar run at the international level. The former Team India opener ended his illustrious career with&nbsp;8,586, 8,273 and 394 runs in Tests, ODIs and T20Is respectively. He was known for his fearless style of batting. Since his retirement, Indian cricket have had fearless batters such as Rohit Sharma and Harmanpreet Kaur but many a times&nbsp;former cricketers come&nbsp;up with the cliched <em>'He reminds me of Sehwag'</em> phrase when youngsters play a blazing knock.</p>

<p>However, Sehwag feels there is no player in the Indian team who bats like him but named Rishabh Pant as the one who comes closest to his batting approach. Sehwag also urged Pant to up his game so that he scores daddy hundreds like him.</p>

<p>"I don't think so there is any player in the Indian team who bats like me. The two players who came to my mind who have come close to it are Prithvi Shaw and Rishabh Pant. I think Rishabh Pant is a little bit close to what I used to bat like in Test cricket but he is satisfied with 90-100 but I used to score 200, 250 and 300 and then be content. If he took his game to that level then I think he can entertain the fans even more," Sehwag said during News18 India Chaupal.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kl-rahul-or-ks-bharat-gautam-gambhir-on-who-should-keep-wickets-for-india-in-wtc-final-vs-australia-573845">KL Rahul or KS Bharat? Gautam Gambhir on who should keep wickets for India in WTC final vs Australia</a></strong></p>

<p>"I used to play tennis ball cricket where my mindset was to hit more runs through boundaries. I played with the same template in international cricket and used to calculate how many boundaries I need to score a century. If I am on 90 and to reach 100 if I take 10 balls then the opposition has 10 balls to get me out, which is why I used to go for boundaries and gave them only two balls to stop me reaching the triple figure-mark. The risk percentage rate dropped from 100 to 200," mentioned the former India opener.</p>

<p>It is to be noted that Sehwag slammed two triple tons and as many as four double centuries in Tests along with a best of 219 in ODIs. Pant, on the other hand, has tasted a lot of success in Tests -- with five centuries in 33 matches -- and scored his maiden ODI ton in 2022. He is currently on recovery mode after being involved in a horrific car accident on December 30 last year.</p>


Virender Sehwag had a stellar run at the international level. The former Team India opener ended his illustrious career with 8,586, 8,273 and 394 runs in Tests, ODIs and T20Is respectively.

Virender Sehwag had a stellar run at the international level. The former Team India opener ended his illustrious career with 8,586, 8,273 and 394 runs in Tests, ODIs and T20Is respectively. He was known for his fearless style of batting. Since his retirement, Indian cricket have had fearless batters such as Rohit Sharma and Harmanpreet Kaur but many a times former cricketers come up with the cliched 'He reminds me of Sehwag' phrase when youngsters play a blazing knock. However, Sehwag feels there is no player in the Indian team who bats like him but named Rishabh Pant as the one who comes closest to his batting approach. Sehwag also urged Pant to up his game so that he scores daddy hundreds like him. "I don't think so there is any player in the Indian team who bats like me. The two players who came to my mind who have come close to it are Prithvi Shaw and Rishabh Pant. I think Rishabh Pant is a little bit close to what I used to bat like in Test cricket but he is satisfied with 90-100 but I used to score 200, 250 and 300 and then be content. If he took his game to that level then I think he can entertain the fans even more," Sehwag said during News18 India Chaupal. Also Read: KL Rahul or KS Bharat? Gautam Gambhir on who should keep wickets for India in WTC final vs Australia "I used to play tennis ball cricket where my mindset was to hit more runs through boundaries. I played with the same template in international cricket and used to calculate how many boundaries I need to score a century. If I am on 90 and to reach 100 if I take 10 balls then the opposition has 10 balls to get me out, which is why I used to go for boundaries and gave them only two balls to stop me reaching the triple figure-mark. The risk percentage rate dropped from 100 to 200," mentioned the former India opener. It is to be noted that Sehwag slammed two triple tons and as many as four double centuries in Tests along with a best of 219 in ODIs. Pant, on the other hand, has tasted a lot of success in Tests -- with five centuries in 33 matches -- and scored his maiden ODI ton in 2022. He is currently on recovery mode after being involved in a horrific car accident on December 30 last year.

Virender Sehwag names Indian star who comes close to his style of batting, shares an advice for him

<p>India qualified for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final for the second time in a row early this month. As India have not won an ICC title since 2013, they will be desperate to break their ten-year drought during the upcoming WTC finale, versus Australia, at The Oval, London. The finale kicks off on June 07 and is expected to go down to the wire.</p>

<p>In 2021, India locked horns with New Zealand in the inaugural WTC final and lost by eight wickets with many blaming the then Virat Kohli-Ravi Shastri-led think tank for not choosing the ideal XI. Thus, Rohit Sharma-Rahul Dravid will be focused on choosing the right XI this time around as India look to win the elite championship. Ahead of the WTC summit clash, many feel it would be right to pick KL Rahul, who has been out of form in whites, for his good record in English conditions and he can also keep wickets. But some are of the opinion that KS Bharat remains the best bet behind the stumps in Rishabh Pant's absence.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-this-uncapped-mi-all-rounder-to-earn-more-than-his-skipper-rohit-sharma-in-mega-event-573831">IPL 2023: THIS uncapped MI all-rounder to earn more than his skipper Rohit Sharma in mega event</a></strong></p>

<p>While former cricketers Ravi Shastri and Sunil Gavaskar have backed Rahul as a wicketkeeper-batter for the WTC final, Rahul's IPL franchise Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)'s mentor and ex-Indian opener Gautam Gambhir feels Bharat should retain his place.</p>

<p>"You should always go with a specialist wicketkeeper. England is a tough place to keep, where you can’t go with a part-time wicketkeeper," Gambhir told&nbsp;<em>Sports Tak.&nbsp;</em>He added, "If you want to pick KL Rahul for the WTC final, then play him purely as a batsman."</p>

<section>At present, India is involved in the three-match ODI series versus Australia with the series levelled at 1-1. The third and final ODI will be held in Chennai before the IPL 2023 edition kicks off. After the IPL final, the WTC finale will be held on June 07.</section>


India qualified for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final for the second time in a row early this month. As India have not won an ICC title since 2013, they will be desperate to break their ten-year drought during the upcoming WTC finale, versus Australia, at The Oval, London.

India qualified for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final for the second time in a row early this month. As India have not won an ICC title since 2013, they will be desperate to break their ten-year drought during the upcoming WTC finale, versus Australia, at The Oval, London. The finale kicks off on June 07 and is expected to go down to the wire. In 2021, India locked horns with New Zealand in the inaugural WTC final and lost by eight wickets with many blaming the then Virat Kohli-Ravi Shastri-led think tank for not choosing the ideal XI. Thus, Rohit Sharma-Rahul Dravid will be focused on choosing the right XI this time around as India look to win the elite championship. Ahead of the WTC summit clash, many feel it would be right to pick KL Rahul, who has been out of form in whites, for his good record in English conditions and he can also keep wickets. But some are of the opinion that KS Bharat remains the best bet behind the stumps in Rishabh Pant's absence. Also read: IPL 2023: THIS uncapped MI all-rounder to earn more than his skipper Rohit Sharma in mega event While former cricketers Ravi Shastri and Sunil Gavaskar have backed Rahul as a wicketkeeper-batter for the WTC final, Rahul's IPL franchise Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)'s mentor and ex-Indian opener Gautam Gambhir feels Bharat should retain his place. "You should always go with a specialist wicketkeeper. England is a tough place to keep, where you can’t go with a part-time wicketkeeper," Gambhir told Sports Tak. He added, "If you want to pick KL Rahul for the WTC final, then play him purely as a batsman." At present, India is involved in the three-match ODI series versus Australia with the series levelled at 1-1. The third and final ODI will be held in Chennai before the IPL 2023 edition kicks off. After the IPL final, the WTC finale will be held on June 07.

KL Rahul or KS Bharat? Gautam Gambhir on who should keep wickets for India in WTC final vs Australia

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


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

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

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

<p>Rishabh Pant has been out of cricketing action ever since he was involved in a horrific car accident on December 30, 2022. The star wicketkeeper-batter sustained several injuries following a near-fatal car accident, which took place in the early hours on December 30 in Dehradun-Delhi highway. Since then, the 25-year-old is on recovery mode and keeps sharing updates of his progress for is fans worldwide.</p>

<p>On Wednesday (March 15), Pant took to his official Twitter handle where he shared a video of him walking in a pool. "Grateful for small things, big things, And everything in between," he wrote. Here's the clip:</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Grateful for small thing, big things and everything in between. 🙏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RP17?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RP17</a> <a href="https://t.co/NE9Do72Thr">pic.twitter.com/NE9Do72Thr</a></p>
— Rishabh Pant (@RishabhPant17) <a href="https://twitter.com/RishabhPant17/status/1635961020773552133?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 15, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-ms-dhonis-no-look-big-hit-at-the-csk-nets-goes-viral-ahead-of-ipl-2023-572299">WATCH: MS Dhoni's NO-LOOK big hit at the CSK nets goes viral ahead of IPL 2023</a></strong></p>

<p>Earlier, Pant had also provided an update on his surgery pertaining to a ligament tear. "I am humbled and grateful for all the support and good wishes," Pant wrote on Twitter. "I am glad to let you know that my surgery was a success. The road to recovery has begun and I am ready for the challenges ahead. Thank you to the @BCCI, @JayShah &amp; government authorities for their incredible support."</p>

<p>He further added, "From the bottom of my heart, I also would like to thank all my fans, teammates, doctors and the physios for your kind words and encouragement. Looking forward to seeing you all on the field."</p>

<p>Pant missed the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, held in India, where Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. defeated Australia 2-1. Hence, both sides have now qualified for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final, to be held early June. Pant will miss IPL 2023, WTC finale and possibly the 2023 ODI World Cup as well.</p>

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Rishabh Pant has been out of cricketing action ever since he was involved in a horrific car accident on December 30, 2022. The star wicketkeeper-batter sustained several injuries following a near-fatal car accident, which took place in the early hours on December 30 in Dehradun-Delhi highway.

Rishabh Pant has been out of cricketing action ever since he was involved in a horrific car accident on December 30, 2022. The star wicketkeeper-batter sustained several injuries following a near-fatal car accident, which took place in the early hours on December 30 in Dehradun-Delhi highway. Since then, the 25-year-old is on recovery mode and keeps sharing updates of his progress for is fans worldwide. On Wednesday (March 15), Pant took to his official Twitter handle where he shared a video of him walking in a pool. "Grateful for small things, big things, And everything in between," he wrote. Here's the clip: Grateful for small thing, big things and everything in between. 🙏#RP17 pic.twitter.com/NE9Do72Thr — Rishabh Pant (@RishabhPant17) March 15, 2023 × Also Read: WATCH: MS Dhoni's NO-LOOK big hit at the CSK nets goes viral ahead of IPL 2023 Earlier, Pant had also provided an update on his surgery pertaining to a ligament tear. "I am humbled and grateful for all the support and good wishes," Pant wrote on Twitter. "I am glad to let you know that my surgery was a success. The road to recovery has begun and I am ready for the challenges ahead. Thank you to the @BCCI, @JayShah & government authorities for their incredible support." He further added, "From the bottom of my heart, I also would like to thank all my fans, teammates, doctors and the physios for your kind words and encouragement. Looking forward to seeing you all on the field." Pant missed the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, held in India, where Rohit Sharma & Co. defeated Australia 2-1. Hence, both sides have now qualified for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final, to be held early June. Pant will miss IPL 2023, WTC finale and possibly the 2023 ODI World Cup as well. ×

Rishabh Pant's recovery process kicks off with walk in the pool as HEARTFELT video goes viral - WATCH

<p>Rishabh Pant got involved in a horrific car accident on December 30, 2022. The Indian star player sustained several injuries in the near-fatal accident and is out of cricketing action for a long time. Pant is out of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023, ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final and possibly will miss the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 as well.</p>

<p>Pant is on recovery mode at present and was recently visited by India's former star all-rounder Yuvraj Singh. The former cricketer shared a picture with Pant from his official Twitter handle with a heartfelt caption.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"On to baby steps !!! This champion is going to rise again .was good catching up and having a laugh. what a guy positive and funny always !! More power to you," wrote Yuvraj.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">On to baby steps !!! This champion is going to rise again 🔜 .was good catching up and having a laugh 😅what a guy positive and funny always !! More power to you 🤛 💫 <a href="https://twitter.com/RishabhPant17?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RishabhPant17</a> <a href="https://t.co/OKv487GrRC">pic.twitter.com/OKv487GrRC</a></p>
— Yuvraj Singh (@YUVSTRONG12) <a href="https://twitter.com/YUVSTRONG12/status/1636394504583512066?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 16, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-safe-sachin-adam-gilchrist-reacts-to-incorrect-claims-labelling-him-as-worlds-richest-cricketer-572958">You safe Sachin: Adam Gilchrist reacts to INCORRECT claims labelling him as world's RICHEST cricketer</a></strong></p>

<p>Ever since Pant's recovery kicked off, he has remained active on social media platforms where he keeps sharing updates of his progress with fans. Few days back, he shared&nbsp;a video of him walking in a pool. He wrote, "Grateful for small things, big things, And everything in between," he wrote. <strong>Here's the clip:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Grateful for small thing, big things and everything in between. 🙏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RP17?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RP17</a> <a href="https://t.co/NE9Do72Thr">pic.twitter.com/NE9Do72Thr</a></p>
— Rishabh Pant (@RishabhPant17) <a href="https://twitter.com/RishabhPant17/status/1635961020773552133?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 15, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Pant&nbsp;had earlier also provided an update on his surgery pertaining to a ligament tear. "I am humbled and grateful for all the support and good wishes," Pant wrote on Twitter. "I am glad to let you know that my surgery was a success. The road to recovery has begun and I am ready for the challenges ahead. Thank you to the @BCCI, @JayShah &amp; government authorities for their incredible support."</p>

<p>He further added, "From the bottom of my heart, I also would like to thank all my fans, teammates, doctors and the physios for your kind words and encouragement. Looking forward to seeing you all on the field."</p>


Rishabh Pant got involved in a horrific car accident on December 30, 2022. The Indian star player sustained several injuries in the near-fatal accident and is out of cricketing action for a long time.

Rishabh Pant got involved in a horrific car accident on December 30, 2022. The Indian star player sustained several injuries in the near-fatal accident and is out of cricketing action for a long time. Pant is out of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023, ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final and possibly will miss the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 as well. Pant is on recovery mode at present and was recently visited by India's former star all-rounder Yuvraj Singh. The former cricketer shared a picture with Pant from his official Twitter handle with a heartfelt caption. "On to baby steps !!! This champion is going to rise again .was good catching up and having a laugh. what a guy positive and funny always !! More power to you," wrote Yuvraj. On to baby steps !!! This champion is going to rise again 🔜 .was good catching up and having a laugh 😅what a guy positive and funny always !! More power to you 🤛 💫 @RishabhPant17 pic.twitter.com/OKv487GrRC — Yuvraj Singh (@YUVSTRONG12) March 16, 2023 × Also read: You safe Sachin: Adam Gilchrist reacts to INCORRECT claims labelling him as world's RICHEST cricketer Ever since Pant's recovery kicked off, he has remained active on social media platforms where he keeps sharing updates of his progress with fans. Few days back, he shared a video of him walking in a pool. He wrote, "Grateful for small things, big things, And everything in between," he wrote. Here's the clip: Grateful for small thing, big things and everything in between. 🙏#RP17 pic.twitter.com/NE9Do72Thr — Rishabh Pant (@RishabhPant17) March 15, 2023 × Pant had earlier also provided an update on his surgery pertaining to a ligament tear. "I am humbled and grateful for all the support and good wishes," Pant wrote on Twitter. "I am glad to let you know that my surgery was a success. The road to recovery has begun and I am ready for the challenges ahead. Thank you to the @BCCI, @JayShah & government authorities for their incredible support." He further added, "From the bottom of my heart, I also would like to thank all my fans, teammates, doctors and the physios for your kind words and encouragement. Looking forward to seeing you all on the field."

'The champion is...: Yuvraj Singh meets Rishabh Pant, shares heartfelt post for star player

<p>Sachin Tendulkar is undoubtedly one of the greatest batters of all time. Tendulkar made his international debut in 1989 and soon became a household name, being India's main batter all throughout the 90s. While several injuries did dent his journey, he kept bouncing back and adapted to the changing demands of the game to remain a part of the national side till his international retirement in 2013.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Tendulkar ended with 34,357 runs, scoring as many as 100 international tons and being part of the triumphant MS Dhoni-led India's 2011 ODI World Cup squad. During his 24-year-long illustrious career, the right-hander faced a plethora of quality bowlers and had fierce rivalry with many. Among them, Pakistan great Saqlain Mushtaq also shared a healthy rivalry with the Indian star batter; dismissing him on quite a few occasions (especially during the epic Chennai Test in 1999). Recently, the legendary spinner recalled an incident when he tried to get into Tendulkar's skin but the ploy backfired.</p>

<p>During the late 90s, both India and Pakistan squared off in several ODIs in Canada. In one of the Indo-Pak face-offs in Canada, Saqlain tried to sledge Tendulkar but ended up feeling guilty about it. "I once had an incident with Sachin. We went to Canada. I had come there after playing County cricket in England. I was a young boy then and I was in my own world of bowling. So after playing County I became a little cocky. Sachin was a very intelligent cricketer. I bowled a very tight first over to him and sledged him. I used some harsh words. "</p>

<p>"He came to me and said very nicely "Saqi... I never thought you would do this. And you don't even appear the kind of person who would say such words. I thought you're a very decent person". He said it so nicely and believe me for the next 4 overs, his words hit me. I was so consumed by what he said to me that before I could realise, he had done his job. He got set while batting," Saqlain said while speaking on The Nadir Ali podcast.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-former-captain-virat-kohli-eyes-plethora-of-records-in-odi-series-vs-men-in-yellow-572659">India vs Australia: Former captain Virat Kohli eyes plethora of records in ODI series vs Men in Yellow</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>'How well did he trap me. Not with the bat, but only by using his words'</strong></p>

<p>The Pakistani spinner added, "These are tactics. When someone talk to you nicely, you start thinking about it. While I was in my own thoughts, Sachin kept hitting at least one boundary in the next 4-5 overs and I began respecting him. When he finally stepped out and smashed another four, I felt a slap on my face. I then realised 'He played a game with me'. By then he was well set and things had gotten out of my hands. Later in the evening, we met and the hotel and I said to him 'You're a clever person'. And he started smiling. How well did he trap me. Not with the bat, but only by using his words."</p>


Sachin Tendulkar is undoubtedly one of the greatest batters of all time. Tendulkar made his international debut in 1989 and soon became a household name, being India's main batter all throughout the 90s.

Sachin Tendulkar is undoubtedly one of the greatest batters of all time. Tendulkar made his international debut in 1989 and soon became a household name, being India's main batter all throughout the 90s. While several injuries did dent his journey, he kept bouncing back and adapted to the changing demands of the game to remain a part of the national side till his international retirement in 2013. Tendulkar ended with 34,357 runs, scoring as many as 100 international tons and being part of the triumphant MS Dhoni-led India's 2011 ODI World Cup squad. During his 24-year-long illustrious career, the right-hander faced a plethora of quality bowlers and had fierce rivalry with many. Among them, Pakistan great Saqlain Mushtaq also shared a healthy rivalry with the Indian star batter; dismissing him on quite a few occasions (especially during the epic Chennai Test in 1999). Recently, the legendary spinner recalled an incident when he tried to get into Tendulkar's skin but the ploy backfired. During the late 90s, both India and Pakistan squared off in several ODIs in Canada. In one of the Indo-Pak face-offs in Canada, Saqlain tried to sledge Tendulkar but ended up feeling guilty about it. "I once had an incident with Sachin. We went to Canada. I had come there after playing County cricket in England. I was a young boy then and I was in my own world of bowling. So after playing County I became a little cocky. Sachin was a very intelligent cricketer. I bowled a very tight first over to him and sledged him. I used some harsh words. " "He came to me and said very nicely "Saqi... I never thought you would do this. And you don't even appear the kind of person who would say such words. I thought you're a very decent person". He said it so nicely and believe me for the next 4 overs, his words hit me. I was so consumed by what he said to me that before I could realise, he had done his job. He got set while batting," Saqlain said while speaking on The Nadir Ali podcast. Also read: India vs Australia: Former captain Virat Kohli eyes plethora of records in ODI series vs Men in Yellow 'How well did he trap me. Not with the bat, but only by using his words' The Pakistani spinner added, "These are tactics. When someone talk to you nicely, you start thinking about it. While I was in my own thoughts, Sachin kept hitting at least one boundary in the next 4-5 overs and I began respecting him. When he finally stepped out and smashed another four, I felt a slap on my face. I then realised 'He played a game with me'. By then he was well set and things had gotten out of my hands. Later in the evening, we met and the hotel and I said to him 'You're a clever person'. And he started smiling. How well did he trap me. Not with the bat, but only by using his words."

Pakistan great recalls how Sachin Tendulkar 'trapped' him with words after he sledged the Indian legend

<p>After winning 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2-1, India will take on Australia in the three-match ODI series opener, on Friday (March 17), at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. The Men in Blue will be without regular captain Rohit Sharma, who is out of action due to personal reasons and will join for the remainder ODIs, as Hardik Pandya will lead the side.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In Rohit's absence, former captain Virat Kohli will be expected to guide the young batters and take the bulk of the scoring responsibilities. The 34-year-old Kohli has been in good form in the 50-over format, smashing three tons in the last four months. The star batter is on the cusp of achieving a plethora of records in the three-match ODI series versus Steve Smith &amp; Co. The right-hander is&nbsp;only 191 runs away from becoming the fifth batter to complete 13,000 runs in ODIs. The likes of Sachin Tendulkar (18426), Kumar Sangakkara (14,234), Ricky Ponting (13,704), and Sanath Jayasuriya (13,430) are the only ones to be part of the 13k club.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kohli is also just three&nbsp;centuries away from equalling Tendulkar's world record for most ODI hundreds (49). Kohli's tally stands at 46. He averages a superb&nbsp;54.81 versus the Men in Yellow, along with ten half-centuries and eight hundreds. Thus, he has a chance to equal Tendulkar's tally. It is to be noted that Kohli has scored three tons on the trot in the format once (in 2018 during the home series versus West Indies). Hence, there is every chance for him to replicate the same once again and come at par with SRT.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wpl-2023-virat-kohlis-pep-talk-with-smriti-mandhanas-rcb-goes-viral-ahead-of-their-first-win-watch-572524">WPL 2023: Virat Kohli's pep talk with Smriti Mandhana's RCB goes viral ahead of their first win - Watch</a></strong></p>

<p>In addition, Kohli is eyeing to overtake Ponting in the list of batters with the most runs in home ODIs. He is currently third in the overall list&nbsp;behind Tendulkar and Ponting. The Master Blaster is at the top with&nbsp;6,976 runs whereas the former Australian captain comes next with&nbsp;5,406 runs. Meanwhile, Kohli has&nbsp;5,358 runs under his belt in home conditions; 48 runs away from the Aussie.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Since the 2015 ODI World Cup, India and Australia have squared off in five bilateral ODI series. The Men in Blue have won twice and lost the remaining three. Hence, they will hope for a winning start in the three-match series opener in Mumbai on Friday.</p>


After winning 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2-1, India will take on Australia in the three-match ODI series opener, on Friday (March 17), at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai.

After winning 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2-1, India will take on Australia in the three-match ODI series opener, on Friday (March 17), at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. The Men in Blue will be without regular captain Rohit Sharma, who is out of action due to personal reasons and will join for the remainder ODIs, as Hardik Pandya will lead the side. In Rohit's absence, former captain Virat Kohli will be expected to guide the young batters and take the bulk of the scoring responsibilities. The 34-year-old Kohli has been in good form in the 50-over format, smashing three tons in the last four months. The star batter is on the cusp of achieving a plethora of records in the three-match ODI series versus Steve Smith & Co. The right-hander is only 191 runs away from becoming the fifth batter to complete 13,000 runs in ODIs. The likes of Sachin Tendulkar (18426), Kumar Sangakkara (14,234), Ricky Ponting (13,704), and Sanath Jayasuriya (13,430) are the only ones to be part of the 13k club. Kohli is also just three centuries away from equalling Tendulkar's world record for most ODI hundreds (49). Kohli's tally stands at 46. He averages a superb 54.81 versus the Men in Yellow, along with ten half-centuries and eight hundreds. Thus, he has a chance to equal Tendulkar's tally. It is to be noted that Kohli has scored three tons on the trot in the format once (in 2018 during the home series versus West Indies). Hence, there is every chance for him to replicate the same once again and come at par with SRT. Also read: WPL 2023: Virat Kohli's pep talk with Smriti Mandhana's RCB goes viral ahead of their first win - Watch In addition, Kohli is eyeing to overtake Ponting in the list of batters with the most runs in home ODIs. He is currently third in the overall list behind Tendulkar and Ponting. The Master Blaster is at the top with 6,976 runs whereas the former Australian captain comes next with 5,406 runs. Meanwhile, Kohli has 5,358 runs under his belt in home conditions; 48 runs away from the Aussie. Since the 2015 ODI World Cup, India and Australia have squared off in five bilateral ODI series. The Men in Blue have won twice and lost the remaining three. Hence, they will hope for a winning start in the three-match series opener in Mumbai on Friday.

India vs Australia: Former captain Virat Kohli eyes plethora of records in ODI series vs Men in Yellow

<p>Team India is all set to start a new era as Hardik Pandya's men get ready to draw the first blood in the ODI series against Australia. The three-match ODI series that starts on Friday, March 17 will see them come back to the Wankhede Stadium as they try to end the winless run at the venue. The visitors will be eyeing revenge on the Indian side, having lost the Test series 1-2 while the hosts will look to start on a winning note.</p>

<h3><strong>India's winless run at Wankhede Stadium</strong></h3>

<p>Not since October 2011 have India won an ODI match at the coveted Wankhede Stadium as they have gone more than a decade without glory at the venue. The fixture against England on 23rd October saw MS Dhoni's men emerge victorious by six wickets as they got the better of Alastair Cook's men. The fixture was played just months after India had won the ODI World Cup at the same venue in April.</p>

<p>Currently, India have lost their last three ODI matches at the venue, losing to South Africa, New Zealand and Australia. The defeat against the Aussies in January 2020 was an excruciating one as they lost by 10 wickets. Despite scoring 255 in their innings, the Aussies' openers did not put a foot wrong in the chase and did not lose a wicket before clinching the win. David Warner (128) and Aaron Finch (110) stitched together a partnership of 258 runs to take their side home.&nbsp;</p>

<h3><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wpl-2023-virat-kohlis-pep-talk-with-smriti-mandhanas-rcb-goes-viral-ahead-of-their-first-win-watch-572524">WPL 2023: Virat Kohli's pep talk with Smriti Mandhana's RCB goes viral ahead of their first win - Watch</a></strong></h3>

<p>However, the Indian team won't have to look far behind for a win at the venue, as they won by two runs against Sri Lanka at the start of the year in the T20I format.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Altogether India have played 19 ODI matches at the Wankhede Stadium, where they have emerged victorious in 10. One of those wins includes the World Cup final win over Sri Lanka in 2011.</p>

<h3><strong>Injury worries for India</strong></h3>

<p>The Indian team will have to do without local boy and captain Rohit Sharma as he remains unavailable. On the flip side, Shreyas Iyer will also miss the ODI series with a back injury and is unlikely to play in the Indian Premier League&nbsp;(IPL) 2023 season.</p>

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Team India is all set to start a new era as Hardik Pandya's men get ready to draw the first blood in the ODI series against Australia. The three-match ODI series that starts on Friday, March 17 will see them come back to the Wankhede Stadium as they try to end the winless run at the venue.

Team India is all set to start a new era as Hardik Pandya's men get ready to draw the first blood in the ODI series against Australia. The three-match ODI series that starts on Friday, March 17 will see them come back to the Wankhede Stadium as they try to end the winless run at the venue. The visitors will be eyeing revenge on the Indian side, having lost the Test series 1-2 while the hosts will look to start on a winning note. India's winless run at Wankhede Stadium Not since October 2011 have India won an ODI match at the coveted Wankhede Stadium as they have gone more than a decade without glory at the venue. The fixture against England on 23rd October saw MS Dhoni's men emerge victorious by six wickets as they got the better of Alastair Cook's men. The fixture was played just months after India had won the ODI World Cup at the same venue in April. Currently, India have lost their last three ODI matches at the venue, losing to South Africa, New Zealand and Australia. The defeat against the Aussies in January 2020 was an excruciating one as they lost by 10 wickets. Despite scoring 255 in their innings, the Aussies' openers did not put a foot wrong in the chase and did not lose a wicket before clinching the win. David Warner (128) and Aaron Finch (110) stitched together a partnership of 258 runs to take their side home. ALSO READ | WPL 2023: Virat Kohli's pep talk with Smriti Mandhana's RCB goes viral ahead of their first win - Watch However, the Indian team won't have to look far behind for a win at the venue, as they won by two runs against Sri Lanka at the start of the year in the T20I format. Altogether India have played 19 ODI matches at the Wankhede Stadium, where they have emerged victorious in 10. One of those wins includes the World Cup final win over Sri Lanka in 2011. Injury worries for India The Indian team will have to do without local boy and captain Rohit Sharma as he remains unavailable. On the flip side, Shreyas Iyer will also miss the ODI series with a back injury and is unlikely to play in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 season. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

IND vs AUS ODI Series: Can India break Wankhede Stadium jinx as Hardik Pandya's men try to draw first blood?

<p>After a riveting 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy between India and Australia, the two heavyweights will now lock horns with each other in the three-match ODI series opener. The first ODI will kick off on Friday (March 17) at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, in Mumbai. It won't feature both the regular captains as Rohit Sharma is out due to personal reasons whereas Pat Cummins remains in Australia after the death of his mother.</p>

<p>Hence, Hardik Pandya and Steve Smith will lead their respective sides. Rohit is expected to return for the remaining two games. Ahead of the series opener, <strong>here's a look at the updated&nbsp;ICC Men's Cricket World Cup Super League Standings:</strong></p>

<p><img alt="World Super League Standings" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="eee45a60-599c-436a-94cc-da1142bbe4f1" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/World%20Super%20League.jpg" /></p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-had-packed-our-suitcases-ex-ind-player-shares-unheard-tale-from-ganguly-cos-2001-kolkata-test-win-572156">'Packed our suitcases': Ex-India player shares UNHEARD tale from famous 2001 Kolkata Test win vs Australia</a></strong></p>

<p>The above table is updated after the end of the Bangladesh-England three-match series in the Bangla Tigers' backyard, on March 06. It will be interesting to see how the table appears after the end of the India-Australia series. After the 2015 ODI World Cup, India and Australia have met in five bilateral series in the 50-over format. India have won only two with the Men in Yellow winning the remaining three.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Talking about the World Cup Super League, the top eight teams will directly qualify for the 2023 ODI World Cup, to be held in India in October-November. The top-seven teams have already qualified and it remains to be seen who among West Indies, Sri Lanka, South Africa, Netherlands, Ireland and Zimbabwe join them.</p>

<p>Apart from the top eight, the remaining others will have to take part in the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup Qualifier along with five Associate teams. Two teams from the qualifying tournament will make it&nbsp;to the World Cup. It is to be noted that being the tournament hosts, India have automatically qualified.</p>


After a riveting 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy between India and Australia, the two heavyweights will now lock horns with each other in the three-match ODI series opener.

After a riveting 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy between India and Australia, the two heavyweights will now lock horns with each other in the three-match ODI series opener. The first ODI will kick off on Friday (March 17) at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, in Mumbai. It won't feature both the regular captains as Rohit Sharma is out due to personal reasons whereas Pat Cummins remains in Australia after the death of his mother. Hence, Hardik Pandya and Steve Smith will lead their respective sides. Rohit is expected to return for the remaining two games. Ahead of the series opener, here's a look at the updated ICC Men's Cricket World Cup Super League Standings: Also read: 'Packed our suitcases': Ex-India player shares UNHEARD tale from famous 2001 Kolkata Test win vs Australia The above table is updated after the end of the Bangladesh-England three-match series in the Bangla Tigers' backyard, on March 06. It will be interesting to see how the table appears after the end of the India-Australia series. After the 2015 ODI World Cup, India and Australia have met in five bilateral series in the 50-over format. India have won only two with the Men in Yellow winning the remaining three. Talking about the World Cup Super League, the top eight teams will directly qualify for the 2023 ODI World Cup, to be held in India in October-November. The top-seven teams have already qualified and it remains to be seen who among West Indies, Sri Lanka, South Africa, Netherlands, Ireland and Zimbabwe join them. Apart from the top eight, the remaining others will have to take part in the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup Qualifier along with five Associate teams. Two teams from the qualifying tournament will make it to the World Cup. It is to be noted that being the tournament hosts, India have automatically qualified.

Ind vs Aus, ODI series: Updated World Cup Super League standings before series opener in Mumbai

<p>MS Dhoni remains a big name in world cricket. The former Indian captain retired in mid-2020 with 17,266 runs, 16 tons, 634 catches, 195 stumpings and leading India to all three major ICC titles. Dhoni created a huge stir in world cricket by keeping a check on his emotions on the field and being&nbsp;a shrewd tactician. He&nbsp;became a household name back in his early days due to his power-hitting, finishing skills and smart glovework.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While Dhoni earned a plethora of fans due to his various skills and talents on the field, the former keeper-batter has always been a private person off the 22-yard cricket strip. The former Indian captain has hardly been active on social media platforms. However, he used to be a bit more active, than current times, in 2011-2012.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In 2012, Dhoni hilariously&nbsp;replied to a user who had advised him&nbsp;to concentrate on his batting and not be active on Twitter. In July 2012, ahead of India's&nbsp;tour of Sri Lanka, the then national team captain&nbsp;Dhoni shared a tweet. Responding&nbsp;to&nbsp;his tweet, a user asked him to concentrate on his batting.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fact-check-is-aussie-legend-adam-gilchrist-the-richest-cricketer-in-the-world-heres-the-truth-571877">FACT CHECK: Is Aussie legend Adam Gilchrist the richest cricketer in the world? Here's the TRUTH</a></strong></p>

<p>Just then, Dhoni stunned one and all with his hilarious response.&nbsp;"Sir yes sir, any tips sir," Dhoni wrote in response.&nbsp;The tweet has garnered much attention and has been retweeted by over&nbsp;2,500&nbsp;users.&nbsp;<strong>Check out Dhoni's tweet -</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Spot the difference <a href="http://t.co/eTEvd3Gp">http://t.co/eTEvd3Gp</a></p>
— Mahendra Singh Dhoni (@msdhoni) <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni/status/225143226426859520?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 17, 2012</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/urssrilu666?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@urssrilu666</a> sir yes sir, any tips sir</p>
— Mahendra Singh Dhoni (@msdhoni) <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni/status/225144124242788352?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 17, 2012</a></blockquote>
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<p>At present, Dhoni hardly remains active on Twitter or Instagram. He is currently gearing up for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 edition where he will once again lead the Chennai Super Kings (CSK). The four-time winners had a miserable run in IPL 2022, finishing ninth, and, hence, will be desperate for a revamp this time around.</p>

<p>CSK will open their campaign against defending champions Hardik Pandya-led Gujarat Titans (GT) in the season-opener on March 31, in Ahmedabad.</p>

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MS Dhoni remains a big name in world cricket. The former Indian captain retired in mid-2020 with 17,266 runs, 16 tons, 634 catches, 195 stumpings and leading India to all three major ICC titles.

MS Dhoni remains a big name in world cricket. The former Indian captain retired in mid-2020 with 17,266 runs, 16 tons, 634 catches, 195 stumpings and leading India to all three major ICC titles. Dhoni created a huge stir in world cricket by keeping a check on his emotions on the field and being a shrewd tactician. He became a household name back in his early days due to his power-hitting, finishing skills and smart glovework. While Dhoni earned a plethora of fans due to his various skills and talents on the field, the former keeper-batter has always been a private person off the 22-yard cricket strip. The former Indian captain has hardly been active on social media platforms. However, he used to be a bit more active, than current times, in 2011-2012. In 2012, Dhoni hilariously replied to a user who had advised him to concentrate on his batting and not be active on Twitter. In July 2012, ahead of India's tour of Sri Lanka, the then national team captain Dhoni shared a tweet. Responding to his tweet, a user asked him to concentrate on his batting. Also read: FACT CHECK: Is Aussie legend Adam Gilchrist the richest cricketer in the world? Here's the TRUTH Just then, Dhoni stunned one and all with his hilarious response. "Sir yes sir, any tips sir," Dhoni wrote in response. The tweet has garnered much attention and has been retweeted by over 2,500 users. Check out Dhoni's tweet - Spot the difference http://t.co/eTEvd3Gp — Mahendra Singh Dhoni (@msdhoni) July 17, 2012 × @urssrilu666 sir yes sir, any tips sir — Mahendra Singh Dhoni (@msdhoni) July 17, 2012 × At present, Dhoni hardly remains active on Twitter or Instagram. He is currently gearing up for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 edition where he will once again lead the Chennai Super Kings (CSK). The four-time winners had a miserable run in IPL 2022, finishing ninth, and, hence, will be desperate for a revamp this time around. CSK will open their campaign against defending champions Hardik Pandya-led Gujarat Titans (GT) in the season-opener on March 31, in Ahmedabad. ×

'Any tips sir?': When Dhoni hilariously responded to a Twitter user who advised him to concentrate on batting

<p>Virat Kohli ended his Test century-drought during the just-concluded fourth and final Test between India and Australia in Ahmedabad. During the drawn Test match, the former Indian captain top-scored with a brilliant 186 as he ensured India took a 91-run lead after Australia posted 480. While the Test ended in a tame draw, Rohit Sharma-led India won the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2-1 and entered the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the Test match, Kohli interacted with India's head coach Rahul Dravid in a video shared by the Board of Control for Cricket in India's (BCCI) official Twitter handle. In the clip, Dravid asked Kohli if it was 'hard' for him to have not managed to score a hundred in red-ball format since late 2019. To this, Kohli had a brutal yet heartfelt response.</p>

<p>The 34-year-old Kohli said: "To be honest, I've led the complications to grow on me a little bit because of my own shortcomings. I think the desperation to get the 3-figure mark is something that can grow on you as a batsman. We've all experienced that at some stage or the other. I think I led that happen to me to a certain extent."</p>

<p>"But also the flip side to it is that I am not a guy who is happy with 40 or 45 runs. I am someone who always takes pride in performing for the team. It's not like Virat Kohli should stand out. When I am batting on 40, I know I can get a 150 here and that will help my team. That was eating me up a lot. Why am I not able to get that big score for the team because I always took the pride in performing for the team when it needed me, in difficult conditions and difficult situations," he further opined.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fact-check-is-aussie-legend-adam-gilchrist-the-richest-cricketer-in-the-world-heres-the-truth-571877">FACT CHECK: Is Aussie legend Adam Gilchrist the richest cricketer in the world? Here's the TRUTH</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A conversation full of calmness, respect &amp; inspiration written all over it! 😊 🙌<br />
<br />
A special post series-win chat with <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> Head Coach Rahul Dravid &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad 👍 👍 - By <a href="https://twitter.com/RajalArora?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RajalArora</a><br />
<br />
FULL INTERVIEW 🔽 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAUS</a><a href="https://t.co/nF0XfltRg2">https://t.co/nF0XfltRg2</a> <a href="https://t.co/iHU1jZ1CKG">pic.twitter.com/iHU1jZ1CKG</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1635491261561044993?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 14, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>'Everyone is saying we want a hundred. So, it's like, it does play on your mind'</strong></p>

<p>Kohli asserted, "The fact that I wasn't able to do that was bother me. Not so much the milestone as such as I don't play for it. A lot of people ask me this question, 'how do you keep scoring a hundred?'. I always told them, a hundred is something that happens along the way within my goal which is to bat as long as possible for the team and get as many runs as possible. So, the milestone is never my focus. But yes, I have to be brutally honest, it&nbsp;does become a little complicated because the moment you step out of the hotel room, right from the guy outside the room to the guy in the lift to the bus driver, everyone is saying we want a hundred. So, it's like, it does play on your mind."</p>

<p>"But I think that's the beauty of playing so long as well, to have these complications come and over come these challenges. When it comes together, like it did in this game, that gives you an extra gust of air to go beyond, go further and start enjoying cricket a lot more and be excited for what's to come. I am just happy that it happened at the right time, before the World Test Championship final. I will definitely be going there pretty relaxed," concluded the former Indian captain.</p>

<p>Kohli will be eager to score another ton in India's next Test match, which will be the WTC final versus Australia at The Oval, London on June 07. Under him, India lost the inaugural WTC finale to New Zealand and, hence, he will be eager to guide India to the elusive title this time around. Currently, he is gearing up for the home ODIs versus Australia before IPL 2023's commencement.</p>


Virat Kohli ended his Test century-drought during the just-concluded fourth and final Test between India and Australia in Ahmedabad. During the drawn Test match, the former Indian captain top-scored with a brilliant 186 as he ensured India took a 91-run lead after Australia posted 480.

Virat Kohli ended his Test century-drought during the just-concluded fourth and final Test between India and Australia in Ahmedabad. During the drawn Test match, the former Indian captain top-scored with a brilliant 186 as he ensured India took a 91-run lead after Australia posted 480. While the Test ended in a tame draw, Rohit Sharma-led India won the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2-1 and entered the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final. After the Test match, Kohli interacted with India's head coach Rahul Dravid in a video shared by the Board of Control for Cricket in India's (BCCI) official Twitter handle. In the clip, Dravid asked Kohli if it was 'hard' for him to have not managed to score a hundred in red-ball format since late 2019. To this, Kohli had a brutal yet heartfelt response. The 34-year-old Kohli said: "To be honest, I've led the complications to grow on me a little bit because of my own shortcomings. I think the desperation to get the 3-figure mark is something that can grow on you as a batsman. We've all experienced that at some stage or the other. I think I led that happen to me to a certain extent." "But also the flip side to it is that I am not a guy who is happy with 40 or 45 runs. I am someone who always takes pride in performing for the team. It's not like Virat Kohli should stand out. When I am batting on 40, I know I can get a 150 here and that will help my team. That was eating me up a lot. Why am I not able to get that big score for the team because I always took the pride in performing for the team when it needed me, in difficult conditions and difficult situations," he further opined. Also Read: FACT CHECK: Is Aussie legend Adam Gilchrist the richest cricketer in the world? Here's the TRUTH A conversation full of calmness, respect & inspiration written all over it! 😊 🙌 A special post series-win chat with #TeamIndia Head Coach Rahul Dravid & @imVkohli at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad 👍 👍 - By @RajalArora FULL INTERVIEW 🔽 #INDvAUShttps://t.co/nF0XfltRg2 pic.twitter.com/iHU1jZ1CKG — BCCI (@BCCI) March 14, 2023 × 'Everyone is saying we want a hundred. So, it's like, it does play on your mind' Kohli asserted, "The fact that I wasn't able to do that was bother me. Not so much the milestone as such as I don't play for it. A lot of people ask me this question, 'how do you keep scoring a hundred?'. I always told them, a hundred is something that happens along the way within my goal which is to bat as long as possible for the team and get as many runs as possible. So, the milestone is never my focus. But yes, I have to be brutally honest, it does become a little complicated because the moment you step out of the hotel room, right from the guy outside the room to the guy in the lift to the bus driver, everyone is saying we want a hundred. So, it's like, it does play on your mind." "But I think that's the beauty of playing so long as well, to have these complications come and over come these challenges. When it comes together, like it did in this game, that gives you an extra gust of air to go beyond, go further and start enjoying cricket a lot more and be excited for what's to come. I am just happy that it happened at the right time, before the World Test Championship final. I will definitely be going there pretty relaxed," concluded the former Indian captain. Kohli will be eager to score another ton in India's next Test match, which will be the WTC final versus Australia at The Oval, London on June 07. Under him, India lost the inaugural WTC finale to New Zealand and, hence, he will be eager to guide India to the elusive title this time around. Currently, he is gearing up for the home ODIs versus Australia before IPL 2023's commencement.

'It does become...': Kohli's 'brutally honest' reply to Dravid's question on century drought - WATCH

<p>Rohit Sharma-led India's fourth and final Test versus Australia, in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), ended in a tame draw in Ahmedabad as the hosts won the series 2-1. In the high-scoring series decider, Australia posted 480 all-out riding on centuries from Usman Khawaja and Cameron Green whereas India replied back strongly with tons from Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli (186). On Day 5, on Monday (March 13), both sides settled for a draw when Australia were 175 for 2 in the final session with no chance of any result.</p>

<p>There were a lot of positives for Team India in the just-concluded BGT. While the biggest positive is that India entered the ICC World Test Championship (WTC), the likes of Shubman Gill and Axar Patel also impressed and were some bright performers along with senior pros R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, captain Rohit. Former Indian batter-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar lavished huge praise on Gill and revealed 'another of his rare strengths' while comparing him with Virender Sehwag.</p>

<p>During a discussion on&nbsp;<i>Star Sports</i>, Manjrekar said, "He showed glimpses of it when he made his debut in Australia. It seemed that he is a capable player and can play Test cricket as well. We knew his fundamentals were good when we saw him in Under-19. Rahul Dravid was the coach then and was very happy with his basic abilities."</p>

<p>&nbsp;"The things I liked - one thing I will talk about is the footwork. The front foot is now going further forward although the trigger movement is the back foot. This will help him a lot in Test cricket," Manjrekar opined.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/it-does-become-kohlis-brutally-honest-reply-to-dravds-question-on-century-drought-watch-571912">'It does become...': Kohli's 'brutally honest' reply to Dravd's question on century drought - WATCH</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>'This power game saves you in nervous moments as it did with Virender Sehwag'</strong></p>

<p>Manjrekar further added, "The second thing we saw in Test cricket as well is the big game, the confidence with which he plays the lofted shots. When you see him, it seems he is a purist, a classical player to an extent, but the power game comes whenever he calls for it. In this match also he played a lofted shot in the nineties to go close to a hundred. He reached his (ODI) double hundred also with a six. This power game saves you in nervous moments as it did with Virender Sehwag. I didn't know about this but now it has come to the fore that this is another of his rare strengths."</p>

<p>Gill will now shift his focus on the ODI series versus Australia, which kicks off in Mumbai on March 17. After that, he will gear up for defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) in IPL 2023, which commences on March 31 in Ahmedabad.</p>


Rohit Sharma-led India's fourth and final Test versus Australia, in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), ended in a tame draw in Ahmedabad as the hosts won the series 2-1.

Rohit Sharma-led India's fourth and final Test versus Australia, in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), ended in a tame draw in Ahmedabad as the hosts won the series 2-1. In the high-scoring series decider, Australia posted 480 all-out riding on centuries from Usman Khawaja and Cameron Green whereas India replied back strongly with tons from Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli (186). On Day 5, on Monday (March 13), both sides settled for a draw when Australia were 175 for 2 in the final session with no chance of any result. There were a lot of positives for Team India in the just-concluded BGT. While the biggest positive is that India entered the ICC World Test Championship (WTC), the likes of Shubman Gill and Axar Patel also impressed and were some bright performers along with senior pros R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, captain Rohit. Former Indian batter-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar lavished huge praise on Gill and revealed 'another of his rare strengths' while comparing him with Virender Sehwag. During a discussion on Star Sports, Manjrekar said, "He showed glimpses of it when he made his debut in Australia. It seemed that he is a capable player and can play Test cricket as well. We knew his fundamentals were good when we saw him in Under-19. Rahul Dravid was the coach then and was very happy with his basic abilities." "The things I liked - one thing I will talk about is the footwork. The front foot is now going further forward although the trigger movement is the back foot. This will help him a lot in Test cricket," Manjrekar opined. Also Read: 'It does become...': Kohli's 'brutally honest' reply to Dravd's question on century drought - WATCH 'This power game saves you in nervous moments as it did with Virender Sehwag' Manjrekar further added, "The second thing we saw in Test cricket as well is the big game, the confidence with which he plays the lofted shots. When you see him, it seems he is a purist, a classical player to an extent, but the power game comes whenever he calls for it. In this match also he played a lofted shot in the nineties to go close to a hundred. He reached his (ODI) double hundred also with a six. This power game saves you in nervous moments as it did with Virender Sehwag. I didn't know about this but now it has come to the fore that this is another of his rare strengths." Gill will now shift his focus on the ODI series versus Australia, which kicks off in Mumbai on March 17. After that, he will gear up for defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) in IPL 2023, which commences on March 31 in Ahmedabad.

Ind vs Aus: Sanjay Manjrekar lavishes huge praise on Shubman Gill, reveals 'another of his rare strengths'

<p>India ended the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy versus Australia by beating the visitors 2-1 after the fourth and final Test, in Ahmedabad, ended in a tame draw on Monday (March 13).&nbsp;The series saw India enter the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final, where they will once again face Australia, on June 07, in order to win the coveted title. There were many top performers for India with the likes of captain Rohit Sharma, R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Shubman Gill, Axar Patel doing well in the four Tests. Talking about the spin-bowling all-rounder Axar, he saw his stocks rising as a batter with three crucial half-centuries. During the Ahmedabad Test, the local boy Axar achieved a massive feat on Day 5 of the series decider.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Axar became the fifth cricketer to hit 500 runs and take 50 wickets in 12 Tests. He now has 513 runs and 50 wickets in the purest format of the game. In addition, he became only the second Indian to achieve the historic feat after veteran R Ashwin (596 runs and 63 wickets).</p>

<p>The exclusive club is led by South Africa's Aubrey Faulkner (682 runs and 52 wickets), who is followed by Australia's Jack Gregory (744 runs and 57 wickets) and England great Ian Botham (549 runs and 70 wickets).</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-r-ashwin-recalls-conversation-with-virat-kohli-before-former-captains-ahmedabad-test-heroics-571578">Ind vs Aus: R Ashwin recalls conversation with Virat Kohli before former captain's Ahmedabad Test heroics</a></strong></p>

<p>Former Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh also lauded Axar for his performances in the 2022/23 BGT. "Well, he's been phenomenal with the bat. He didn't get too many chances with the ball in this particular series because Jadeja was doing the damage. Ashwin bowled well in the series. So, I feel as a batter, you know Axar coming at No.8 or 9 and scoring those winning knocks, 70 in Delhi and another one in Nagpur," Harbhajan told India Today.</p>

<p>"He put India ahead in this game by scoring those runs in quick fashion and, of course, good to see him evolving himself as an all-rounder more with the bat now, since he has got the opportunity and he is making the most of it and it's good to see that he's not shying away," Bhajji added.</p>

<p>Axar ended with 264 runs -- third-most overall -- along with three scalps in the just-concluded Australia Tests.&nbsp;</p>


India ended the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy versus Australia by beating the visitors 2-1 after the fourth and final Test, in Ahmedabad, ended in a tame draw on Monday (March 13).

India ended the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy versus Australia by beating the visitors 2-1 after the fourth and final Test, in Ahmedabad, ended in a tame draw on Monday (March 13). The series saw India enter the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final, where they will once again face Australia, on June 07, in order to win the coveted title. There were many top performers for India with the likes of captain Rohit Sharma, R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Shubman Gill, Axar Patel doing well in the four Tests. Talking about the spin-bowling all-rounder Axar, he saw his stocks rising as a batter with three crucial half-centuries. During the Ahmedabad Test, the local boy Axar achieved a massive feat on Day 5 of the series decider. Axar became the fifth cricketer to hit 500 runs and take 50 wickets in 12 Tests. He now has 513 runs and 50 wickets in the purest format of the game. In addition, he became only the second Indian to achieve the historic feat after veteran R Ashwin (596 runs and 63 wickets). The exclusive club is led by South Africa's Aubrey Faulkner (682 runs and 52 wickets), who is followed by Australia's Jack Gregory (744 runs and 57 wickets) and England great Ian Botham (549 runs and 70 wickets). Also read: Ind vs Aus: R Ashwin recalls conversation with Virat Kohli before former captain's Ahmedabad Test heroics Former Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh also lauded Axar for his performances in the 2022/23 BGT. "Well, he's been phenomenal with the bat. He didn't get too many chances with the ball in this particular series because Jadeja was doing the damage. Ashwin bowled well in the series. So, I feel as a batter, you know Axar coming at No.8 or 9 and scoring those winning knocks, 70 in Delhi and another one in Nagpur," Harbhajan told India Today. "He put India ahead in this game by scoring those runs in quick fashion and, of course, good to see him evolving himself as an all-rounder more with the bat now, since he has got the opportunity and he is making the most of it and it's good to see that he's not shying away," Bhajji added. Axar ended with 264 runs -- third-most overall -- along with three scalps in the just-concluded Australia Tests.

BGT 2022/23: Axar Patel attains STAGGERING feat after India beat Australia 2-1

<p>Virat Kohli ended his Test century drought in the just-concluced India-Australia Ahmedabad tie. On Day 4 of the Ahmedabad contest, India resumed their first-innings at 289 for 3, in reply to Australia's 480, with the former Indian captain batting on 59. On a pitch which was akin for batters, the 34-year-old Kohli ended his three-year-long Test-century-drought by smashing a sublime 186, laced with 15 fours. After the end of the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, veteran off-spinner R Ashwin recalled the conversation he had with Kohli after the third and penultimate Test in Indore.</p>

<p>Ashwin revealed that he tried to encourage Kohli as he felt the veteran batter wasn't batting poorly but was just getting dismissed on 30s and 40s. "Personally, Virat and I had a conversation after the Indore Test. Not that we both connect too often on such lines. But I personally felt, Virat was batting well, he was getting time and was getting out after getting 30s and 40s," Ashwin was quoted as saying to Star Sports after the four-match Test series.</p>

<p>The off-spinner asserted, "It was always evident and it needed someone to put an arm around his shoulder and say, ‘you are batting brilliantly, you just need to hang in there for a bit and things are going to turn’. And it’s turned for me in my cricketing career as well."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-reliving-indias-run-in-second-cycle-as-they-qualify-for-summit-clash-571561">WTC Final: Reliving India's run in second cycle as they qualify for summit clash</a></strong></p>

<p>Ashwin further opined,"I felt the big knock was around the corner. Even in the ODI series before this, Virat did play some of his wonderful knocks. Having him and Puji batting well together gives us a lot of advantage because one can eat up balls and the other has a real presence."</p>

<p>"As a cricketer, playing with them all these years, I know runs on the board are very important. And these two players along with Rohit, I can sit and watch them all day,” added the spinner, who won Player-of-the-Series award along with Ravindra Jadeja. Ashwin ended the series with 25 wickets -- most by any -- followed by Jadeja (who returned with 22 scalps).</p>

<p>India will face Australia in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final, at The Oval, London, on June 07.</p>


Virat Kohli ended his Test century drought in the just-concluced India-Australia Ahmedabad tie. On Day 4 of the Ahmedabad contest, India resumed their first-innings at 289 for 3, in reply to Australia's 480, with the former Indian captain batting on 59.

Virat Kohli ended his Test century drought in the just-concluced India-Australia Ahmedabad tie. On Day 4 of the Ahmedabad contest, India resumed their first-innings at 289 for 3, in reply to Australia's 480, with the former Indian captain batting on 59. On a pitch which was akin for batters, the 34-year-old Kohli ended his three-year-long Test-century-drought by smashing a sublime 186, laced with 15 fours. After the end of the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, veteran off-spinner R Ashwin recalled the conversation he had with Kohli after the third and penultimate Test in Indore. Ashwin revealed that he tried to encourage Kohli as he felt the veteran batter wasn't batting poorly but was just getting dismissed on 30s and 40s. "Personally, Virat and I had a conversation after the Indore Test. Not that we both connect too often on such lines. But I personally felt, Virat was batting well, he was getting time and was getting out after getting 30s and 40s," Ashwin was quoted as saying to Star Sports after the four-match Test series. The off-spinner asserted, "It was always evident and it needed someone to put an arm around his shoulder and say, ‘you are batting brilliantly, you just need to hang in there for a bit and things are going to turn’. And it’s turned for me in my cricketing career as well." Also read: WTC Final: Reliving India's run in second cycle as they qualify for summit clash Ashwin further opined,"I felt the big knock was around the corner. Even in the ODI series before this, Virat did play some of his wonderful knocks. Having him and Puji batting well together gives us a lot of advantage because one can eat up balls and the other has a real presence." "As a cricketer, playing with them all these years, I know runs on the board are very important. And these two players along with Rohit, I can sit and watch them all day,” added the spinner, who won Player-of-the-Series award along with Ravindra Jadeja. Ashwin ended the series with 25 wickets -- most by any -- followed by Jadeja (who returned with 22 scalps). India will face Australia in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final, at The Oval, London, on June 07.

Ind vs Aus: R Ashwin recalls conversation with Virat Kohli before former captain's Ahmedabad Test heroics

<p>Kane Williamson's 27th ton propelled New Zealand to a famous two-wicket win over Sri Lanka in the Christchurch Test on Monday (March 13). With this win, the current Test world champions New Zealand helped India enter the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final. Thus, the result of the ongoing India-Australia Test is not out of the picture as India have already qualified for the finale. For SL to qualify, they had to whitewash hosts NZ and hope that India does not win the Ahmedabad Test. While India's victory is very much out of the picture, with a tame draw on the cards, the Islanders are now out with a close defeat.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Thus, India will play in the WTC final for the second time in a row. After they missed a golden opportunity to win the inaugural edition in 2021, losing to New Zealand, India will now have another go at the coveted title. <strong>Here's when and where will India square off with Pat Cummins &amp; Co. at the WTC finale:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-ind-aus-to-meet-in-icc-mens-final-for-first-time-after-20-years-heres-what-happened-back-then-571433">WTC final: Ind-Aus to meet in ICC men's final for first time after 20 years! Here's what happened back then -</a></strong></p>

<p><b>India vs Australia, WTC Final</b></p>

<p>Rohit Sharma-led India will meet the Aussies in the WTC summit clash on June 07. The match will be held at The Kennington Oval, London. June 12 will be the reserve day. At the venue, India have played 14 Tests; winning only two and losing five (with seven draws). However, they triumphed over England by 157 runs in their last tie at the venue in 2021.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Australia have played 38 Tests at The Oval, winning seven and losing 17 of them along with 14 draws.</p>

<p>India's last ICC title came in 2013 when they lifted the Champions Trophy in England and Wales under MS Dhoni's leadership. Will Rohit &amp; Co. end their ten-year-long ICC-title drought by winning the WTC final in June? Only time will tell...</p>


Kane Williamson's 27th ton propelled New Zealand to a famous two-wicket win over Sri Lanka in the Christchurch Test on Monday (March 13). With this win, the current Test world champions New Zealand helped India enter the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final.

Kane Williamson's 27th ton propelled New Zealand to a famous two-wicket win over Sri Lanka in the Christchurch Test on Monday (March 13). With this win, the current Test world champions New Zealand helped India enter the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final. Thus, the result of the ongoing India-Australia Test is not out of the picture as India have already qualified for the finale. For SL to qualify, they had to whitewash hosts NZ and hope that India does not win the Ahmedabad Test. While India's victory is very much out of the picture, with a tame draw on the cards, the Islanders are now out with a close defeat. Thus, India will play in the WTC final for the second time in a row. After they missed a golden opportunity to win the inaugural edition in 2021, losing to New Zealand, India will now have another go at the coveted title. Here's when and where will India square off with Pat Cummins & Co. at the WTC finale: Also Read: WTC final: Ind-Aus to meet in ICC men's final for first time after 20 years! Here's what happened back then - India vs Australia, WTC Final Rohit Sharma-led India will meet the Aussies in the WTC summit clash on June 07. The match will be held at The Kennington Oval, London. June 12 will be the reserve day. At the venue, India have played 14 Tests; winning only two and losing five (with seven draws). However, they triumphed over England by 157 runs in their last tie at the venue in 2021. Meanwhile, Australia have played 38 Tests at The Oval, winning seven and losing 17 of them along with 14 draws. India's last ICC title came in 2013 when they lifted the Champions Trophy in England and Wales under MS Dhoni's leadership. Will Rohit & Co. end their ten-year-long ICC-title drought by winning the WTC final in June? Only time will tell...

WTC final: When and where will India lock horns with Australia to end 10-year-long ICC-title drought

<p>New Zealand's thrilling two-wicket win over Sri Lanka, in Christchurch, confirmed India a place in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final. Dimuth Karunaratne-led Sri Lanka had to whitewash the hosts in the two-match Test series and pray for India to not win their ongoing Ahmedabad Test versus Australia in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy to topple Rohit Shamra &amp; Co. and join Australia in the WTC summit clash. Nonetheless, Kane Williamson's unbeaten 121, his 27th Test ton, propelled the Tim Southee-led Black Caps to a thrilling two-wicket victory, in pursuit of 285, on the last ball of the first Test on Monday (March 13).</p>

<p>Thus, India have now officially entered the WTC final and will lock horns with Pat Cummins-led Australia for the ICC title on June 07, at The Oval, London. It is to be noted that arch-rivals India and Australia will now lock horns in an ICC men's final for the first time after 20 years. The last time both sides squared off in an ICC finale was during the 2003 ODI World Cup in Johannesburg.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nz-vs-sl-1st-test-williamson-mitchell-take-kiwis-to-thrlling-two-wicket-win-as-india-qualify-for-wtc-final-571406">NZ vs SL, 1st Test: Williamson, Mitchell take Kiwis to thrilling two-wicket win as India qualify for WTC final</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>Here's what happened in the last ICC men's final between India, Australia</strong></p>

<p>The last time India faced Australia in a men's ICC final was during the 2003 ODI World Cup. Back then, the invincibles Ricky Ponting-led Aussies came into the summit clash without dropping a game. Meanwhile, India started poorly before turning the tides emphatically to reach the summit clash. During the finale, nothing clicked for India despite winning the toss. Ganguly-led India invited Australia to bat first, who rode on Ponting's 140 not out&nbsp;and Damien Martyn's 88* to post a daunting 359 for 2. In reply, India only managed 234 all-out with Virender Sehwag's 82 being the top score.</p>

<p>Indian fans will surely hope for the script to be in Rohit &amp; Co.'s favour this time around.&nbsp;At present, they are involved in the fourth and final Test versus Australia, in Ahmedabad, of the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. They lead the series 2-1.&nbsp;</p>


New Zealand's thrilling two-wicket win over Sri Lanka, in Christchurch, confirmed India a place in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final. Dimuth Karunaratne-led Sri Lanka had to whitewash the hosts in the two-match Test series and pray for India to not win their ongoing Ahmedabad Test versus Australia in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy to topple Rohit Shamra & Co.

New Zealand's thrilling two-wicket win over Sri Lanka, in Christchurch, confirmed India a place in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final. Dimuth Karunaratne-led Sri Lanka had to whitewash the hosts in the two-match Test series and pray for India to not win their ongoing Ahmedabad Test versus Australia in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy to topple Rohit Shamra & Co. and join Australia in the WTC summit clash. Nonetheless, Kane Williamson's unbeaten 121, his 27th Test ton, propelled the Tim Southee-led Black Caps to a thrilling two-wicket victory, in pursuit of 285, on the last ball of the first Test on Monday (March 13). Thus, India have now officially entered the WTC final and will lock horns with Pat Cummins-led Australia for the ICC title on June 07, at The Oval, London. It is to be noted that arch-rivals India and Australia will now lock horns in an ICC men's final for the first time after 20 years. The last time both sides squared off in an ICC finale was during the 2003 ODI World Cup in Johannesburg. Also Read: NZ vs SL, 1st Test: Williamson, Mitchell take Kiwis to thrilling two-wicket win as India qualify for WTC final Here's what happened in the last ICC men's final between India, Australia The last time India faced Australia in a men's ICC final was during the 2003 ODI World Cup. Back then, the invincibles Ricky Ponting-led Aussies came into the summit clash without dropping a game. Meanwhile, India started poorly before turning the tides emphatically to reach the summit clash. During the finale, nothing clicked for India despite winning the toss. Ganguly-led India invited Australia to bat first, who rode on Ponting's 140 not out and Damien Martyn's 88* to post a daunting 359 for 2. In reply, India only managed 234 all-out with Virender Sehwag's 82 being the top score. Indian fans will surely hope for the script to be in Rohit & Co.'s favour this time around. At present, they are involved in the fourth and final Test versus Australia, in Ahmedabad, of the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. They lead the series 2-1.

WTC final: Ind-Aus to meet in ICC men's finale for first time after 20 years! Here's what happened back then -

<p>Day 2 of the fourth and final Test between India and Australia saw the Steve Smith-led visitors post a challenging 480 on a belter of a surface at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad. On the opening day,&nbsp;on Thursday (March 9), Australia opted to bat first and went to stumps at 255 for 4. The second day's play saw the visitors ride on Usman Khawaja's 180 and Cameron Green's 114&nbsp;to post a mammoth 480 before Rohit Sharma-led India went to stumps at 36 for no loss.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the day's proceedings, Indian bowlers were made to work hard for every wicket. The opening session saw the home side remain wicketless as Khawaja-Green's partnership frustrated them. As a result, Rohit &amp; Co. took a horrendous review on the last ball of the 128th over, bowled by Ravindra Jadeja. The Indian players made an lbw appeal versus Khawaja, who was batting on 160 along with Green on 112, but the replays showed the ball to be miles away from the stumps. Hence, umpire Richard&nbsp;Kettleborough's reaction went viral as he couldn't stop smiling on the poor DRS call from Team India.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-ms-dhoni-turns-back-the-clock-with-magnanimous-sixes-in-csk-practice-session-watch-570632">IPL 2023: MS Dhoni turns back the clock with MAGNANIMOUS sixes in CSK practice session - WATCH</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>Here's the viral video:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="zxx"><a href="https://t.co/eMxKD9khgT">pic.twitter.com/eMxKD9khgT</a></p>
— Anna 24GhanteChaukanna (@Anna24GhanteCh2) <a href="https://twitter.com/Anna24GhanteCh2/status/1634107222811721728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Eventually, India got rid of centurion Khawaja for 180, trapping him lbw off Axar Patel. Green, on the other hand, fell for 114 after scoring his maiden ton in whites. Some help from their tail-enders saw Australia post a mammoth 480 all-out before Indian openers Rohit (17 not out) and Shubman Gill (unbeaten 18) negated any threat from the Aussie bowlers to take India to 36 for no loss at the end of day's play.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Day 3 will be extremely crucial for Team India, who trail Australia by a whopping 444-run margin. The hosts lead the four-match series 2-1 but need a win in this tie to not only clinch the Border-Gavaskar Trophy but also enter the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final. Australia are already through to the WTC summit clash.</p>


Day 2 of the fourth and final Test between India and Australia saw the Steve Smith-led visitors post a challenging 480 on a belter of a surface at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad.

Day 2 of the fourth and final Test between India and Australia saw the Steve Smith-led visitors post a challenging 480 on a belter of a surface at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad. On the opening day, on Thursday (March 9), Australia opted to bat first and went to stumps at 255 for 4. The second day's play saw the visitors ride on Usman Khawaja's 180 and Cameron Green's 114 to post a mammoth 480 before Rohit Sharma-led India went to stumps at 36 for no loss. During the day's proceedings, Indian bowlers were made to work hard for every wicket. The opening session saw the home side remain wicketless as Khawaja-Green's partnership frustrated them. As a result, Rohit & Co. took a horrendous review on the last ball of the 128th over, bowled by Ravindra Jadeja. The Indian players made an lbw appeal versus Khawaja, who was batting on 160 along with Green on 112, but the replays showed the ball to be miles away from the stumps. Hence, umpire Richard Kettleborough's reaction went viral as he couldn't stop smiling on the poor DRS call from Team India. Also read: IPL 2023: MS Dhoni turns back the clock with MAGNANIMOUS sixes in CSK practice session - WATCH Here's the viral video: pic.twitter.com/eMxKD9khgT — Anna 24GhanteChaukanna (@Anna24GhanteCh2) March 10, 2023 × Eventually, India got rid of centurion Khawaja for 180, trapping him lbw off Axar Patel. Green, on the other hand, fell for 114 after scoring his maiden ton in whites. Some help from their tail-enders saw Australia post a mammoth 480 all-out before Indian openers Rohit (17 not out) and Shubman Gill (unbeaten 18) negated any threat from the Aussie bowlers to take India to 36 for no loss at the end of day's play. Day 3 will be extremely crucial for Team India, who trail Australia by a whopping 444-run margin. The hosts lead the four-match series 2-1 but need a win in this tie to not only clinch the Border-Gavaskar Trophy but also enter the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final. Australia are already through to the WTC summit clash.

Watch: India take HORRENDOUS review as umpire's reaction goes viral on Day 2 of 4th Test vs Australia

<p>India struggled to get wickets on Day 2 of the fourth and final Test versus Australia at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad on Friday (March 10). After the opening day's play ended with the visitors well-placed at 255 for 4, there was more misery for Team India as the unbeaten fifth-wicket stand between centurion Usman Khawaja and Cameron Green continued to pile on runs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>From 170 for 4, Green and Khawaja added 208 runs for the fifth wicket with Day 2's opening session seeing India go wicketless. At lunch break, former India head coach Ravi Shastri stated that since the Ahmedabad Test pitch is a batting-friendly one, this is a big learning curve for skipper Rohit Sharma.</p>

<p>"It's a big learning curve for Rohit Sharma. Tests were getting over in quick time, the game was moving very fast. But this one, it's a good pitch. The wickets are not coming as quickly. That's when you got to get that thinking cap on, marshalling your resources. One thing captaining overseas, and one thing captaining in India on good tracks," Shastri said on-air for Star Sports.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-md-shami-dismisses-peter-handscomb-with-a-peach-of-a-delivery-on-day-1-of-4th-test-570263">WATCH: Md Shami dismisses Peter Handscomb with a peach of a delivery on Day 1 of 4th Test</a></strong></p>

<p>"He has got all the good skills, but this is the exposure he needs. It's when one partnership comes up, you will be tested," Shastri added. Post the lunch break, Indian bowlers managed to pick wickets at regular intervals. R Ashwin removed Green (114), Alex Carey and Mitchell Starc before Axar removed Khawaja, who fell for a majestic 180.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Ahmedabad pitch has been the best to bat for in the entire series. India have been made to work hard for every wicket. Their batters&nbsp;will hope to stay for long and reply strongly to Australia's first-innings score, which has already gone past the 400-run mark.</p>

<p>India lead the four-match series 2-1 and have to win to not only clinch the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, with a 3-1 scoreline, but also join Australia in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final.&nbsp;</p>


India struggled to get wickets on Day 2 of the fourth and final Test versus Australia at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad on Friday (March 10). After the opening day's play ended with the visitors well-placed at 255 for 4, there was more misery for Team India as the unbeaten fifth-wicket stand between centurion Usman Khawaja and Cameron Green continued to pile on runs.

India struggled to get wickets on Day 2 of the fourth and final Test versus Australia at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad on Friday (March 10). After the opening day's play ended with the visitors well-placed at 255 for 4, there was more misery for Team India as the unbeaten fifth-wicket stand between centurion Usman Khawaja and Cameron Green continued to pile on runs. From 170 for 4, Green and Khawaja added 208 runs for the fifth wicket with Day 2's opening session seeing India go wicketless. At lunch break, former India head coach Ravi Shastri stated that since the Ahmedabad Test pitch is a batting-friendly one, this is a big learning curve for skipper Rohit Sharma. "It's a big learning curve for Rohit Sharma. Tests were getting over in quick time, the game was moving very fast. But this one, it's a good pitch. The wickets are not coming as quickly. That's when you got to get that thinking cap on, marshalling your resources. One thing captaining overseas, and one thing captaining in India on good tracks," Shastri said on-air for Star Sports. Also read: WATCH: Md Shami dismisses Peter Handscomb with a peach of a delivery on Day 1 of 4th Test "He has got all the good skills, but this is the exposure he needs. It's when one partnership comes up, you will be tested," Shastri added. Post the lunch break, Indian bowlers managed to pick wickets at regular intervals. R Ashwin removed Green (114), Alex Carey and Mitchell Starc before Axar removed Khawaja, who fell for a majestic 180. The Ahmedabad pitch has been the best to bat for in the entire series. India have been made to work hard for every wicket. Their batters will hope to stay for long and reply strongly to Australia's first-innings score, which has already gone past the 400-run mark. India lead the four-match series 2-1 and have to win to not only clinch the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, with a 3-1 scoreline, but also join Australia in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final.

Ahmedabad Test pitch a big learning curve for Rohit Sharma, says ex-India head coach Ravi Shastri

<p>India pacer Jasprit Bumrah has been out of action last September 2022. Bumrah's back issues have persisted for quite some time and the speedster&nbsp;underwent back surgery in Christchurch, New Zealand. The 29-year-old's absence from the 22-yard cricket strip has surely been a cause of concern for Team India and their loyalists. Now as per reports, Bumrah has had successful surgery but his recovery period is a lengthy affair, which&nbsp;will&nbsp;rule him out of&nbsp;action for at least six months.</p>

<p>According to a&nbsp;report in Cricbuzz, Bumrah is unlikely to play cricket till August. Thus, this will keep him out&nbsp;of action for IPL 2023, ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final, Asia Cup 2023. Nonetheless, there remains some hope and optimism about his chances of featuring in the&nbsp;ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, to be held later this year in India.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-rahul-dravid-defends-indian-batsmen-says-pitches-now-challenging-everywhere-569823">Ind vs Aus: Rahul Dravid defends Indian batsmen, says pitches now challenging everywhere</a></strong></p>

<p>It is to be noted that Bumrah was under the care of Dr. Rowan Schouten, a noted orthopedic surgeon attached to the Forte Orthopaedics Hospital in Christchurch. The doctor has previously also treated a few known cricketers&nbsp;such as Australian pace duo James Pattinson and Jason Behrendorff, and English seamer Jofra Archer.</p>

<p>Bumrah's absence for such a long period is surely a big dent to Team India, and the Mumbai Indians (MI). At present, the Rohit Sharma-led side is gearing up for the fourth and final Test versus Australia, in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2022/23 edition, with the series interestingly poised at 2-1 in India's favour. The final Test will be held in Ahmedabad, starting on March 09 (Thursday).</p>

<p>If India emerge on top, they will not only win the series but also confirm a place in the WTC final. Australia have already qualified courtesy their Indore Test win.</p>


India pacer Jasprit Bumrah has been out of action last September 2022. Bumrah's back issues have persisted for quite some time and the speedster underwent back surgery in Christchurch, New Zealand.

India pacer Jasprit Bumrah has been out of action last September 2022. Bumrah's back issues have persisted for quite some time and the speedster underwent back surgery in Christchurch, New Zealand. The 29-year-old's absence from the 22-yard cricket strip has surely been a cause of concern for Team India and their loyalists. Now as per reports, Bumrah has had successful surgery but his recovery period is a lengthy affair, which will rule him out of action for at least six months. According to a report in Cricbuzz, Bumrah is unlikely to play cricket till August. Thus, this will keep him out of action for IPL 2023, ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final, Asia Cup 2023. Nonetheless, there remains some hope and optimism about his chances of featuring in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, to be held later this year in India. Also read: Ind vs Aus: Rahul Dravid defends Indian batsmen, says pitches now challenging everywhere It is to be noted that Bumrah was under the care of Dr. Rowan Schouten, a noted orthopedic surgeon attached to the Forte Orthopaedics Hospital in Christchurch. The doctor has previously also treated a few known cricketers such as Australian pace duo James Pattinson and Jason Behrendorff, and English seamer Jofra Archer. Bumrah's absence for such a long period is surely a big dent to Team India, and the Mumbai Indians (MI). At present, the Rohit Sharma-led side is gearing up for the fourth and final Test versus Australia, in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2022/23 edition, with the series interestingly poised at 2-1 in India's favour. The final Test will be held in Ahmedabad, starting on March 09 (Thursday). If India emerge on top, they will not only win the series but also confirm a place in the WTC final. Australia have already qualified courtesy their Indore Test win.

Jasprit Bumrah back surgery update! Pacer to be out of action for six months post surgery in NZ: Report

<p>Australia bounced back in style in the third and penultimate Test, of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, versus India to win by nine wickets and keep the series alive. However, the venue for the third Test received a lot of flak. The Holkar Stadium, Indore hosted the game which concluded in less than three days with Aussies winning in the morning session on Day 3; making the series scoreline 2-1 in India's favour with one game to go.</p>

<p>The Indore pitch became the talk of the town post the conclusion of the match. Recently, the International Cricket Council (ICC) gave a 'poor' rating to the pitch and many former cricketers and experts of the game shared their take on the surface, which spun considerably from Day 1, and now former Indian opener-turned-commentator Gautam Gambhir also joined the bandwagon.</p>

<p>While speaking to Sports Today, Gambhir said he doesn't appreciate Test matches finishing in 2.5 days.&nbsp;"I feel, yes, playing on turning tracks is fine, but I won't appreciate Test matches finishing in 2.5 days. We want to see tight finishes, like the one we saw in the New Zealand vs England Test. (If a Test goes to) 4th or 5th day, it is fine. But 2.5 days is too short," Gambhir said in a chat on Sports Today.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/big-blow-to-team-india-jasprit-bumrah-out-of-action-for-6-months-with-back-surgery-in-new-zealand-report-569836">Big blow to Team India! Jasprit Bumrah set to be out of action for six months post surgery in NZ: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>It is to be noted that none of the three Tests in the BGT 2022/23 have stretched till the fourth day. All the matches have concluded on the third day, either by first or second session.</p>

<p>Questions were also raised on Rohit Sharma-led India's ability to play spin after they fell for 109 and 163 in the Indore Test. However, Gambhir has backed Rohit-led Indian batters. "I don't think so. People like (Cheteshwar) Pujara, (Virat) Kohli, Rohit Sharma are good players of spin bowling. If they weren't, they won't have played in 100 Tests. You have to be very good player of spin and fast bowling to reach that mark. One thing that has changed is that the DRS has played a massive role," Gambhir added.</p>

<p>The fourth and penultimate Test begins tomorrow (on March 9) as India aim for WTC final qualification. Australia have already confirmed their spot with a famous win in Indore.</p>


Australia bounced back in style in the third and penultimate Test, of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, versus India to win by nine wickets and keep the series alive. However, the venue for the third Test received a lot of flak.

Australia bounced back in style in the third and penultimate Test, of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, versus India to win by nine wickets and keep the series alive. However, the venue for the third Test received a lot of flak. The Holkar Stadium, Indore hosted the game which concluded in less than three days with Aussies winning in the morning session on Day 3; making the series scoreline 2-1 in India's favour with one game to go. The Indore pitch became the talk of the town post the conclusion of the match. Recently, the International Cricket Council (ICC) gave a 'poor' rating to the pitch and many former cricketers and experts of the game shared their take on the surface, which spun considerably from Day 1, and now former Indian opener-turned-commentator Gautam Gambhir also joined the bandwagon. While speaking to Sports Today, Gambhir said he doesn't appreciate Test matches finishing in 2.5 days. "I feel, yes, playing on turning tracks is fine, but I won't appreciate Test matches finishing in 2.5 days. We want to see tight finishes, like the one we saw in the New Zealand vs England Test. (If a Test goes to) 4th or 5th day, it is fine. But 2.5 days is too short," Gambhir said in a chat on Sports Today. Also read: Big blow to Team India! Jasprit Bumrah set to be out of action for six months post surgery in NZ: Report It is to be noted that none of the three Tests in the BGT 2022/23 have stretched till the fourth day. All the matches have concluded on the third day, either by first or second session. Questions were also raised on Rohit Sharma-led India's ability to play spin after they fell for 109 and 163 in the Indore Test. However, Gambhir has backed Rohit-led Indian batters. "I don't think so. People like (Cheteshwar) Pujara, (Virat) Kohli, Rohit Sharma are good players of spin bowling. If they weren't, they won't have played in 100 Tests. You have to be very good player of spin and fast bowling to reach that mark. One thing that has changed is that the DRS has played a massive role," Gambhir added. The fourth and penultimate Test begins tomorrow (on March 9) as India aim for WTC final qualification. Australia have already confirmed their spot with a famous win in Indore.

BGT 2022/23: Won't appreciate Test matches finishing in 2.5 days, opines Gautam Gambhir

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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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


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

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

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

<p>The members of the Indian cricket team were seen painting the team camp as they celebrated Holi before their high-voltage clash against Australia. The members of the Indian team including Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav and others were wrapped in colours as they were seen in the festive vibes. India will play Australia in the fourth Test match of the series and will be in search of a win to guarantee a place in the World Test Championship (WTC) final.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> wishes you all a very Happy Holi 🙌🙌<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HappyHoli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HappyHoli</a> <a href="https://t.co/RdcVrNpfoB">pic.twitter.com/RdcVrNpfoB</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1633088721728991233?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) shared pictures of the players on its Twitter handle as the players were seen in a party mood. The likes of Suryakumar Yadav, Axar Patel, Ishan Kishan and skipper Rohit Sharma were part of the celebration. Joining the players were members of backroom staff Vikram Rathour and Paras Mhambrey as they too were part of the celebrating Indian side. The players and the staff members were wrapped in colours before they take to the field on Thursday, March 9.</p>

<h3><strong>Shami to Return?</strong></h3>

<p>Ace Indian seamer Mohammed Shami is all set to return to the playing XI for the final Test against Australia in Ahmedabad as India eye a slot in the finals of the WTC. Shami was rested for the third Test in Indore as part of the workload management drill by the BCCI and team management for the key players who are in the scheme of things for the 50-over World Cup.</p>

<p>As India currently lead the four-match series 2-1, having lost the previous match at the Holkar Stadium by nine wickets on a wicket that ICC rated ‘poor’, they will aim to win the final Test and qualify directly for the finals of WTC for the second time. As of now, only Australia has qualified for the WTC final, which is scheduled to take place at the Oval in London on June 7th.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-4th-test-pm-modi-to-attend-day-1-of-ahmedabad-test-with-australian-pm-anthony-albanese-569592">IND vs AUS 4th Test: PM Modi to attend Day 1 of Ahmedabad Test with Australian PM Anthony Albanese</a></strong></p>

<h3>Team India Squad for Ahmedabad Test</h3>

<p>Rohit Sharma (C), KL Rahul, S Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, KS Bharat (wk), Ishan Kishan (wk), R Ashwin, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, R Jadeja, Mohammed Shami, Mohd Siraj, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, Umesh Yadav, Jaydev Unadkat</p>


The members of the Indian cricket team were seen painting the team camp as they celebrated Holi before their high-voltage clash against Australia. The members of the Indian team including Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav and others were wrapped in colours as they were seen in the festive vibes.

The members of the Indian cricket team were seen painting the team camp as they celebrated Holi before their high-voltage clash against Australia. The members of the Indian team including Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav and others were wrapped in colours as they were seen in the festive vibes. India will play Australia in the fourth Test match of the series and will be in search of a win to guarantee a place in the World Test Championship (WTC) final. #TeamIndia wishes you all a very Happy Holi 🙌🙌#HappyHoli pic.twitter.com/RdcVrNpfoB — BCCI (@BCCI) March 7, 2023 × The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) shared pictures of the players on its Twitter handle as the players were seen in a party mood. The likes of Suryakumar Yadav, Axar Patel, Ishan Kishan and skipper Rohit Sharma were part of the celebration. Joining the players were members of backroom staff Vikram Rathour and Paras Mhambrey as they too were part of the celebrating Indian side. The players and the staff members were wrapped in colours before they take to the field on Thursday, March 9. Shami to Return? Ace Indian seamer Mohammed Shami is all set to return to the playing XI for the final Test against Australia in Ahmedabad as India eye a slot in the finals of the WTC. Shami was rested for the third Test in Indore as part of the workload management drill by the BCCI and team management for the key players who are in the scheme of things for the 50-over World Cup. As India currently lead the four-match series 2-1, having lost the previous match at the Holkar Stadium by nine wickets on a wicket that ICC rated ‘poor’, they will aim to win the final Test and qualify directly for the finals of WTC for the second time. As of now, only Australia has qualified for the WTC final, which is scheduled to take place at the Oval in London on June 7th. ALSO READ | IND vs AUS 4th Test: PM Modi to attend Day 1 of Ahmedabad Test with Australian PM Anthony Albanese Team India Squad for Ahmedabad Test Rohit Sharma (C), KL Rahul, S Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, KS Bharat (wk), Ishan Kishan (wk), R Ashwin, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, R Jadeja, Mohammed Shami, Mohd Siraj, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, Umesh Yadav, Jaydev Unadkat

IND vs AUS 4th Test: Team India goes full of colours as players, staff celebrate Holi ahead of Ahmedabad clash

<p>The Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) unveiled their new jersey for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 edition, which kicks off in India on March 31. The KL Rahul-led side bowed out in the IPL 2022 Eliminator and will be eager to go the distance this time around in the forthcoming season. Ahead of the tournament opener, LSG mentor Gautam Gambhir was all praise for Rahul.</p>

<p>Rahul has been under-fire for his poor form of late. In Tests, he has only managed 192 runs in the last 12 innings and was left out of India's playing XI for the Indore Test versus Australia. He lost the ODI vice-captaincy post to Hardik Pandya in January 2023 and got sacked as Rohit's deputy in Tests as well. Amid severe criticism from all corners, Gambhir -- former Indian opener and two-time IPL winning captain (for Kolkata Knight Riders) -- said that Lucknow is 'very fortunate' to have Rahul as their captain.</p>

<p>In addition, Gambhir&nbsp;further stated that the right-hander has a stable and balanced head while accepting that he lacked such qualities&nbsp;during his playing days.</p>

<p>At LSG's jersey launch, Gambhir said, "It starts with the captain. The captain is the flag bearer of the team. It is the captain's team. All of us in the dressing room are there to support him. No support staff is under as much pressure as the captain. It is the body language of the captain that will decide how we perform."</p>

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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hardik-pandya-achieves-massive-feat-becomes-youngest-cricketer-to-reach-25-million-followers-on-instagram-569535">Hardik Pandya achieves MASSIVE feat, becomes youngest cricketer to reach 25 million followers on Instagram</a></strong></p>

<p>"We are very fortunate to have someone like KL Rahul, who has a very stable and balanced head. I wish I had it, I did not have that. I was very extreme, but it did work for me. For a franchise like Lucknow, it is important to have someone like KL at the helm. Going forward, this is going to be a massive positive for us," Gambhir added.</p>

<p>Rahul is part of India's Test squad versus Australia with the final match starting on March 09 in Ahmedabad. He will also be seen in the three ODIs versus the Men in Yellow before taking charge of the LSG franchise in IPL 2023.</p>

<p><strong>Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) squad for IPL 2023</strong></p>

<p>KL Rahul, Ayush Badoni, Karan Sharma, Manan Vohra, Quinton de Kock, Marcus Stoinis, Krishnappa Gowtham, Deepak Hooda, Kyle Mayers, Krunal Pandya, Avesh Khan, Mohsin Khan, Mark Wood, Mayank Yadav, Ravi Bishnoi, Nicholas Pooran, Jaydev Unadkat, Yash Thakur, Romario Shepherd, Daniel Sams, Amit Mishra, Prerak Mankad, Swapnil Singh, Naveen ul Haq, Yudhvir Charak</p>
</section>


The Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) unveiled their new jersey for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 edition, which kicks off in India on March 31. The KL Rahul-led side bowed out in the IPL 2022 Eliminator and will be eager to go the distance this time around in the forthcoming season.

The Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) unveiled their new jersey for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 edition, which kicks off in India on March 31. The KL Rahul-led side bowed out in the IPL 2022 Eliminator and will be eager to go the distance this time around in the forthcoming season. Ahead of the tournament opener, LSG mentor Gautam Gambhir was all praise for Rahul. Rahul has been under-fire for his poor form of late. In Tests, he has only managed 192 runs in the last 12 innings and was left out of India's playing XI for the Indore Test versus Australia. He lost the ODI vice-captaincy post to Hardik Pandya in January 2023 and got sacked as Rohit's deputy in Tests as well. Amid severe criticism from all corners, Gambhir -- former Indian opener and two-time IPL winning captain (for Kolkata Knight Riders) -- said that Lucknow is 'very fortunate' to have Rahul as their captain. In addition, Gambhir further stated that the right-hander has a stable and balanced head while accepting that he lacked such qualities during his playing days. At LSG's jersey launch, Gambhir said, "It starts with the captain. The captain is the flag bearer of the team. It is the captain's team. All of us in the dressing room are there to support him. No support staff is under as much pressure as the captain. It is the body language of the captain that will decide how we perform." Also read: Hardik Pandya achieves MASSIVE feat, becomes youngest cricketer to reach 25 million followers on Instagram "We are very fortunate to have someone like KL Rahul, who has a very stable and balanced head. I wish I had it, I did not have that. I was very extreme, but it did work for me. For a franchise like Lucknow, it is important to have someone like KL at the helm. Going forward, this is going to be a massive positive for us," Gambhir added. Rahul is part of India's Test squad versus Australia with the final match starting on March 09 in Ahmedabad. He will also be seen in the three ODIs versus the Men in Yellow before taking charge of the LSG franchise in IPL 2023. Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) squad for IPL 2023 KL Rahul, Ayush Badoni, Karan Sharma, Manan Vohra, Quinton de Kock, Marcus Stoinis, Krishnappa Gowtham, Deepak Hooda, Kyle Mayers, Krunal Pandya, Avesh Khan, Mohsin Khan, Mark Wood, Mayank Yadav, Ravi Bishnoi, Nicholas Pooran, Jaydev Unadkat, Yash Thakur, Romario Shepherd, Daniel Sams, Amit Mishra, Prerak Mankad, Swapnil Singh, Naveen ul Haq, Yudhvir Charak

IPL 2023: Gambhir backs under-fire Rahul, says Lucknow Super Giants 'fortunate' to have him as captain

<p>Hardik Pandya has become the youngest cricketer in the world to reach 25 million followers on the social media platform Instagram. Hardik is one of the most important cricketers for Team India in the white-ball formats and the 29-year-old achieved the massive feat; depicting his popularity across the globe.</p>

<p>On achieving the special feat, Hardik shared a video post on Instagram and captioned it, "25 MILLION followers on Instagram! I am truly grateful from the bottom of my heart for all your love, all your wishes, and all your constant support. Thank you, My beautiful wife @natasastankovic__ decided to ask me 25 questions to celebrate the 25 million of us together."</p>

<p>In the clip, the all-rounder said,&nbsp;"Thank you to all my fans for the love. Each one of my fans is special to me, and I would like to thank them for the love and support they have given me over all these years."</p>

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<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CpcTt7xJ1Lc/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Hardik Himanshu Pandya (@hardikpandya93)</a></p>
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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ricky-ponting-urges-team-india-to-make-a-big-change-in-batting-order-if-they-enter-wtc-final-569523">Ricky Ponting urges Team India to make a big change in batting order if they enter WTC final</a></strong></p>

<p>It is to be noted that Hardik has more Instagram followers than some of the global sporting icons across the globe, such as Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Max Verstappen, and Erling Halaand. The all-rounder was last seen on the 22-yard cricket strip during India's three-match T20I series versus New Zealand at home. Under him, India whitewashed the Black Caps. He has been leading the T20I side following the 2022 T20 World Cup and was promoted as the ODI vice-captain in January 2023.</p>

<p>Hardik will next be seen in India-Australia three ODIs, starting on March 17 in Mumbai. He will lead the side in the first ODI in Rohit Sharma's absence. After that, he will lead&nbsp;the defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) in IPL 2023 opener where they will face MS Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings (CSK), in Ahmedabad, on March 31.</p>


Hardik Pandya has become the youngest cricketer in the world to reach 25 million followers on the social media platform Instagram. Hardik is one of the most important cricketers for Team India in the white-ball formats and the 29-year-old achieved the massive feat; depicting his popularity across the globe.

Hardik Pandya has become the youngest cricketer in the world to reach 25 million followers on the social media platform Instagram. Hardik is one of the most important cricketers for Team India in the white-ball formats and the 29-year-old achieved the massive feat; depicting his popularity across the globe. On achieving the special feat, Hardik shared a video post on Instagram and captioned it, "25 MILLION followers on Instagram! I am truly grateful from the bottom of my heart for all your love, all your wishes, and all your constant support. Thank you, My beautiful wife @natasastankovic__ decided to ask me 25 questions to celebrate the 25 million of us together." In the clip, the all-rounder said, "Thank you to all my fans for the love. Each one of my fans is special to me, and I would like to thank them for the love and support they have given me over all these years." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Hardik Himanshu Pandya (@hardikpandya93) × Also read: Ricky Ponting urges Team India to make a big change in batting order if they enter WTC final It is to be noted that Hardik has more Instagram followers than some of the global sporting icons across the globe, such as Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Max Verstappen, and Erling Halaand. The all-rounder was last seen on the 22-yard cricket strip during India's three-match T20I series versus New Zealand at home. Under him, India whitewashed the Black Caps. He has been leading the T20I side following the 2022 T20 World Cup and was promoted as the ODI vice-captain in January 2023. Hardik will next be seen in India-Australia three ODIs, starting on March 17 in Mumbai. He will lead the side in the first ODI in Rohit Sharma's absence. After that, he will lead the defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) in IPL 2023 opener where they will face MS Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings (CSK), in Ahmedabad, on March 31.

Hardik Pandya achieves MASSIVE feat, becomes youngest cricketer to reach 25 million followers on Instagram

<p>Steve Smith is set to lead Australia in the fourth and final Test versus India as well, with regular skipper Pat Cummins to remain in Australia with his ailing mother. The Aussie speedster's mother Maria is ill with breast cancer and is in palliative care, as reported by Cricket Australia. Thus, Cummins had skipped the third and penultimate Test, in Indore, as well -- which the visitors won by nine wickets to keep the series alive at 2-1 -- and will now also miss the series decider in Ahmedabad, starting on March 09.</p>

<p>Under Smith, Australia produced a clinical performance in the third Test at the Holkar Stadium, Indore. Opting to bat first, Rohit Sharma-led India folded for a paltry 109 -- thanks to&nbsp;Matthew Kuhnemann's 5 for 16 -- before Australia only managed 197 but took a vital 88-run lead. In reply, India once again fell flat in their second essay; being dismissed for 163 in 60.3 overs. Chasing 76, Smith &amp; Co. chased down the target with nine wickets in hand in the morning session of Day 3.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Thus, Australia -- who were without Cummins -- produced a clinical performance to keep the four-match series alive, at 2-1 in India's favour.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-are-ready-to-give-our-lives-for-babar-azam-pak-batter-comes-in-support-of-under-fire-national-captain-569163">'We are ready to give our lives for Babar Azam': Pak batter comes in support of under-fire national captain</a></strong></p>

<p>After leading Australia to an emphatic win, Smith said after the game, "My time is done. It's Pat's team now. I've obviously been able to stand in this week, obviously in tough circumstances with Patty going home. Our thoughts are still with him back home."</p>

<p>"But India is a part of the world I love captaining ... it's probably my favourite place in the world to captain. Every ball is an event and therefore can dictate what happens after, which is something that I really love and you've got to be ahead of the game. So I thought I did it well this week and it was good fun," he added.</p>

<p>The fourth and final Test begins at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad on March 09. Smith-led Aussies will be desperate to end the series with a 2-2 stalemate. They have already qualified for the WTC final after the Indore Test win.</p>


Steve Smith is set to lead Australia in the fourth and final Test versus India as well, with regular skipper Pat Cummins to remain in Australia with his ailing mother.

Steve Smith is set to lead Australia in the fourth and final Test versus India as well, with regular skipper Pat Cummins to remain in Australia with his ailing mother. The Aussie speedster's mother Maria is ill with breast cancer and is in palliative care, as reported by Cricket Australia. Thus, Cummins had skipped the third and penultimate Test, in Indore, as well -- which the visitors won by nine wickets to keep the series alive at 2-1 -- and will now also miss the series decider in Ahmedabad, starting on March 09. Under Smith, Australia produced a clinical performance in the third Test at the Holkar Stadium, Indore. Opting to bat first, Rohit Sharma-led India folded for a paltry 109 -- thanks to Matthew Kuhnemann's 5 for 16 -- before Australia only managed 197 but took a vital 88-run lead. In reply, India once again fell flat in their second essay; being dismissed for 163 in 60.3 overs. Chasing 76, Smith & Co. chased down the target with nine wickets in hand in the morning session of Day 3. Thus, Australia -- who were without Cummins -- produced a clinical performance to keep the four-match series alive, at 2-1 in India's favour. Also read: 'We are ready to give our lives for Babar Azam': Pak batter comes in support of under-fire national captain After leading Australia to an emphatic win, Smith said after the game, "My time is done. It's Pat's team now. I've obviously been able to stand in this week, obviously in tough circumstances with Patty going home. Our thoughts are still with him back home." "But India is a part of the world I love captaining ... it's probably my favourite place in the world to captain. Every ball is an event and therefore can dictate what happens after, which is something that I really love and you've got to be ahead of the game. So I thought I did it well this week and it was good fun," he added. The fourth and final Test begins at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad on March 09. Smith-led Aussies will be desperate to end the series with a 2-2 stalemate. They have already qualified for the WTC final after the Indore Test win.

India vs Australia, BGT 2022/23: Steve Smith set to lead in final Test in Pat Cummins' absence

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


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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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