Give Mitchell Starc 'space not pressure' to work things out, says Virat Kohli

<p>Virat Kohli-led team achieved&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/historic-india-win-maiden-test-series-in-australia-188678">Test series victory</a>&nbsp;on Australian soil since India started touring to Australia in 1947-48 as they clinched the series 2-1 after the weather-affected fourth match at the Sydney Cricket finished in a draw on Monday.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>After winning the historic Test series Virat said, "By far this is my best achievement. Has to be on top of the pile. When we won the World Cup, I was a young player. I saw the others getting emotional."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, former and current players along with administrators hailed the series win on various platforms.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Following are the reactions:</p>

<p><strong>Sachin Tendulkar</strong><br />
An amazing day for Indian cricket! The resilience and determination of #TeamIndia has made this a series to be cherished. Proud of the boys. Has been a wonderful series where the younger and senior players shared responsibilities to achieve something special. @Rishabpant777, who has gone from strength to strength and @imkuldeep18 are definitely ones to watch out for.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">An amazing day for Indian cricket! The resilience and determination of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> has made this a series to be cherished. Proud of the boys. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAUS</a> <a href="https://t.co/qPPXhYnKzM">pic.twitter.com/qPPXhYnKzM</a></p>
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt/status/1082179058069254145?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Bishan Singh Bedi</strong><br />
Kudos to Team Ind fr recovering lot of (sic) lost ground in (sic) Sth Afr/Eng-truly remarkable feat-beating Aust fr 1st time in (sic) their own backyard-2 guys @cheteshwar1 &amp; @Jaspritbumrah93 personified consistency-all playing X1's gr8 resolve/determination helped cross the Rubicon..Congrats All!</p>

<p>VVS Laxman<br />
Many congratulations #TeamIndia on this historic series win in Australia. It took a complete Team effort from every member of the side and it gives such an immense sense of satisfaction and joy to see what the boys have done on the field. Let's cherish this special series win</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Many congratulations <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> on this historic series win in Australia. It took a complete Team effort from every member of the side and it gives such an immense sense of satisfaction and joy to see what the boys have done on the field. Let’s cherish this special series win <a href="https://t.co/QFj7oJg47i">pic.twitter.com/QFj7oJg47i</a></p>
— VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) <a href="https://twitter.com/VVSLaxman281/status/1082152051768020992?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Virender Sehwag</strong><br />
Congratulations #TeamIndia for this memorable win. Every cricket lover in India will be very proud of this one and a special effort by every member in the Team to ensure this result.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Congratulations <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> for this memorable win. Every cricket lover in India will be very proud of this one and a special effort by every member in the Team to ensure this result. <a href="https://t.co/GLUaQgLt4S">pic.twitter.com/GLUaQgLt4S</a></p>
— Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) <a href="https://twitter.com/virendersehwag/status/1082150021594836992?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Harbhajan Singh</strong><br />
Proud of you guys Well done Team India for winning the test series in Australia.. Congratulations @cheteshwar1 for winning MOS u (sic) been a backbone of indian batting line up.. Keep it up @BCCI bowling wise @Jaspritbumrah93 has been phenomenal..Love ur work</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Proud of you guys🇮🇳🇮🇳🇮🇳🇮🇳🇮🇳..Well done Team India for winning the test series in Australia.. congratulations <a href="https://twitter.com/cheteshwar1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@cheteshwar1</a> for winning MOS u been a backbone of indian batting line up.. keep it up 🔥🏏<a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BCCI</a> bowling wise <a href="https://twitter.com/Jaspritbumrah93?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Jaspritbumrah93</a> has been phenomenal..love ur work ⭐️💪</p>
— Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) <a href="https://twitter.com/harbhajan_singh/status/1082121618263101440?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Suresh Raina</strong><br />
When was the last time you did something for the first time? Historic 1st Test Series win for India in Australia! Superb effort by #TeamIndia ! It may have ended in rain but that's not going to dampen the celebrations! Proud #INDvAUS</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">When was the last time you did something for the first time? Historic 1st Test Series win for India in Australia! Superb effort by <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> ! It may have ended in rain but that’s not going to dampen the celebrations! Proud <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAUS</a> <a href="https://t.co/xVN9OZtye5">pic.twitter.com/xVN9OZtye5</a></p>
— Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRaina/status/1082137310702026759?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Mitchell Johnson</strong><br />
Congratulations to the Indian cricket team for making history, winning in Australia for the 1st time is a proud achievement for all of India. @cheteshwar1 &amp; the whole Indian bowling attack was just unstoppable this series. Was thrilling to watch @Jaspritbumrah93 bowling</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Congratulations to India for winning the Test series in Australia for the first time ever 👏🏼 <a href="https://twitter.com/Jaspritbumrah93?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Jaspritbumrah93</a> I was so impressed with your performance throughout this series! Fast,… <a href="https://t.co/7fMSNEeJ1q">https://t.co/7fMSNEeJ1q</a></p>
— Mitchell Johnson (@MitchJohnson398) <a href="https://twitter.com/MitchJohnson398/status/1082132516125982722?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Michael Clarke</strong><br />
Congratulations team on a very well played Test Match series 2-1.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Congratulations team 🇮🇳 on a very well played Test Match series 2-1 👏🏻🏏</p>
— Michael Clarke (@MClarke23) <a href="https://twitter.com/MClarke23/status/1082120539756552193?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Michael Vaughan</strong><br />
Well done #India on a really good series Win Down Under .. High class Skill produced by many of the players .. But it's great for all players around the world to see @cheteshwar1 get Man of the Series for playing the Test Match way .. A lesson to all ...</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Well done <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a> on a really good series Win Down Under .. High class Skill produced by many of the players .. but it’s great for all players around the world to see <a href="https://twitter.com/cheteshwar1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@cheteshwar1</a> get Man of the Series for playing the Test Match way .. A lesson to all .. #2–1 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a></p>
— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) <a href="https://twitter.com/MichaelVaughan/status/1082170985032355841?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Glenn McGrath</strong><br />
? Congratulations to @imVkohli &amp; his Indian Team on winning their first ever series in Australia. They outplayed @CAComms in all departments. Very well deserved.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Congratulations to <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> &amp; his Indian Team on winning their first ever series in Australia. They outplayed <a href="https://twitter.com/cacomms?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CAComms</a> in all departments. Very well deserved. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/pinktest?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#pinktest</a> <a href="https://t.co/UkEJcrzJ3I">https://t.co/UkEJcrzJ3I</a></p>
— Glenn McGrath (@glennmcgrath11) <a href="https://twitter.com/glennmcgrath11/status/1082121305481191424?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Gautam Gambhir</strong><br />
Congratulations India on a stupendous victory. It's a big day for us as sporting nation. For once,let's not debate or dissect the impact of absence of Warner/Smith, let's just savour the moment and be proud. Let's be together on this one at least!</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Congratulations India on a stupendous victory. It’s a big day for us as sporting nation. For once,let’s not debate or dissect the impact of absence of Warner/Smith, let’s just savour the moment and be proud. Let’s be together on this one at least! <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BCCI</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/SPNSportsIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SPNSportsIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAUS</a></p>
— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) <a href="https://twitter.com/GautamGambhir/status/1082135708100366341?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Vinod Rai (CoA chief)&nbsp;</strong><br />
An amazing historic series win for the Indian team. A very comprehensive effort. Every member contributed. I congratulate the captain, the head coach and each player in the team for the remarkable performance put in by them. My heartiest accolades for the performance. Great show.<br />
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CK Khanna (acting president, BCCI): I wish to congratulate the Indian team for their series win in Australia and Virat Kohli for his superb captaincy. He led from the front.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Diana Edulji (COA member)&nbsp;Congratulations to Team India on this great series victory.</p>


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

Virat Kohli-led team achieved Test series victory on Australian soil since India started touring to Australia in 1947-48 as they clinched the series 2-1 after the weather-affected fourth match at the Sydney Cricket finished in a draw on Monday. After winning the historic Test series Virat said, "By far this is my best achievement. Has to be on top of the pile. When we won the World Cup, I was a young player. I saw the others getting emotional." Meanwhile, former and current players along with administrators hailed the series win on various platforms. Following are the reactions: Sachin Tendulkar An amazing day for Indian cricket! The resilience and determination of #TeamIndia has made this a series to be cherished. Proud of the boys. Has been a wonderful series where the younger and senior players shared responsibilities to achieve something special. @Rishabpant777, who has gone from strength to strength and @imkuldeep18 are definitely ones to watch out for. An amazing day for Indian cricket! The resilience and determination of #TeamIndia has made this a series to be cherished. Proud of the boys. #INDvAUS pic.twitter.com/qPPXhYnKzM — Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) January 7, 2019 × Bishan Singh Bedi Kudos to Team Ind fr recovering lot of (sic) lost ground in (sic) Sth Afr/Eng-truly remarkable feat-beating Aust fr 1st time in (sic) their own backyard-2 guys @cheteshwar1 & @Jaspritbumrah93 personified consistency-all playing X1's gr8 resolve/determination helped cross the Rubicon..Congrats All! VVS Laxman Many congratulations #TeamIndia on this historic series win in Australia. It took a complete Team effort from every member of the side and it gives such an immense sense of satisfaction and joy to see what the boys have done on the field. Let's cherish this special series win Many congratulations #TeamIndia on this historic series win in Australia. It took a complete Team effort from every member of the side and it gives such an immense sense of satisfaction and joy to see what the boys have done on the field. Let’s cherish this special series win pic.twitter.com/QFj7oJg47i — VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) January 7, 2019 × Virender Sehwag Congratulations #TeamIndia for this memorable win. Every cricket lover in India will be very proud of this one and a special effort by every member in the Team to ensure this result. Congratulations #TeamIndia for this memorable win. Every cricket lover in India will be very proud of this one and a special effort by every member in the Team to ensure this result. pic.twitter.com/GLUaQgLt4S — Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) January 7, 2019 × Harbhajan Singh Proud of you guys Well done Team India for winning the test series in Australia.. Congratulations @cheteshwar1 for winning MOS u (sic) been a backbone of indian batting line up.. Keep it up @BCCI bowling wise @Jaspritbumrah93 has been phenomenal..Love ur work Proud of you guys🇮🇳🇮🇳🇮🇳🇮🇳🇮🇳..Well done Team India for winning the test series in Australia.. congratulations @cheteshwar1 for winning MOS u been a backbone of indian batting line up.. keep it up 🔥🏏@BCCI bowling wise @Jaspritbumrah93 has been phenomenal..love ur work ⭐️💪 — Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) January 7, 2019 × Suresh Raina When was the last time you did something for the first time? Historic 1st Test Series win for India in Australia! Superb effort by #TeamIndia ! It may have ended in rain but that's not going to dampen the celebrations! Proud #INDvAUS When was the last time you did something for the first time? Historic 1st Test Series win for India in Australia! Superb effort by #TeamIndia ! It may have ended in rain but that’s not going to dampen the celebrations! Proud #INDvAUS pic.twitter.com/xVN9OZtye5 — Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) January 7, 2019 × Mitchell Johnson Congratulations to the Indian cricket team for making history, winning in Australia for the 1st time is a proud achievement for all of India. @cheteshwar1 & the whole Indian bowling attack was just unstoppable this series. Was thrilling to watch @Jaspritbumrah93 bowling Congratulations to India for winning the Test series in Australia for the first time ever 👏🏼 @Jaspritbumrah93 I was so impressed with your performance throughout this series! Fast,… https://t.co/7fMSNEeJ1q — Mitchell Johnson (@MitchJohnson398) January 7, 2019 × Michael Clarke Congratulations team on a very well played Test Match series 2-1. Congratulations team 🇮🇳 on a very well played Test Match series 2-1 👏🏻🏏 — Michael Clarke (@MClarke23) January 7, 2019 × Michael Vaughan Well done #India on a really good series Win Down Under .. High class Skill produced by many of the players .. But it's great for all players around the world to see @cheteshwar1 get Man of the Series for playing the Test Match way .. A lesson to all ... Well done #India on a really good series Win Down Under .. High class Skill produced by many of the players .. but it’s great for all players around the world to see @cheteshwar1 get Man of the Series for playing the Test Match way .. A lesson to all .. #2–1 #AUSvIND — Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) January 7, 2019 × Glenn McGrath ? Congratulations to @imVkohli & his Indian Team on winning their first ever series in Australia. They outplayed @CAComms in all departments. Very well deserved. Congratulations to @imVkohli & his Indian Team on winning their first ever series in Australia. They outplayed @CAComms in all departments. Very well deserved. #AUSvIND #pinktest https://t.co/UkEJcrzJ3I — Glenn McGrath (@glennmcgrath11) January 7, 2019 × Gautam Gambhir Congratulations India on a stupendous victory. It's a big day for us as sporting nation. For once,let's not debate or dissect the impact of absence of Warner/Smith, let's just savour the moment and be proud. Let's be together on this one at least! Congratulations India on a stupendous victory. It’s a big day for us as sporting nation. For once,let’s not debate or dissect the impact of absence of Warner/Smith, let’s just savour the moment and be proud. Let’s be together on this one at least! @BCCI @SPNSportsIndia #INDvAUS — Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) January 7, 2019 × Vinod Rai (CoA chief) An amazing historic series win for the Indian team. A very comprehensive effort. Every member contributed. I congratulate the captain, the head coach and each player in the team for the remarkable performance put in by them. My heartiest accolades for the performance. Great show. CK Khanna (acting president, BCCI): I wish to congratulate the Indian team for their series win in Australia and Virat Kohli for his superb captaincy. He led from the front. Diana Edulji (COA member) Congratulations to Team India on this great series victory.

India vs Australia: Former and current players along with administrators hail India's series win

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


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

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

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


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

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

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

<p>South Africa beat Pakistan by nine wickets on the fourth day of the second Test at Newlands on Sunday.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pakistan claimed a wicket and forced Hashim Amla to retire hurt before South Africa passed their meagre target after less than an hour's play at Newlands.</p>

<p>Set 41 to win, South Africa reached 43 for the loss of one wicket from 9.5 overs.</p>

<p>The result ensured a seventh successive home series win for South Africa, who won the first Test in Centurion by six wickets. The third and final Test starts in Johannesburg on Friday.</p>

<p>Regular South African opening batsman Aiden Markram did not bat after suffering a severely bruised right thigh when he fell heavily on the boundary rope while fielding on Saturday.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">South Africa chase down the easy target of 41 runs in just 9.5 overs as they beat Pakistan by nine wickets and seal the three-Test series 2-0. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvPAK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvPAK</a> SCORECARD ⬇️<a href="https://t.co/sT3TAzOBtB">https://t.co/sT3TAzOBtB</a> <a href="https://t.co/fVbuwAQ3sI">pic.twitter.com/fVbuwAQ3sI</a></p>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1081843861268221952?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 6, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>Theunis de Bruyn, opening in place of Markram, clipped Mohammad Abbas to the midwicket boundary but did not add to his score before being caught off his glove by wicketkeeper and captain Sarfraz Ahmed while attempting to pull a bouncer from Abbas.</p>

<p>Mohammad Amir effectively conceded 10 runs in extras off two successive deliveries, with a wide and a no-ball which both flew over Sarfraz's head.</p>

<p>Hashim Amla was forced to retire hurt on two after being hit on the right upper arm by a ball from Amir which lifted sharply off a good length.</p>

<p>Dean Elgar, who made 24 not out, ended the match by hitting two fours off part-time bowler Azhar Ali.</p>


South Africa beat Pakistan by nine wickets on the fourth day of the second Test at Newlands on Sunday. Pakistan claimed a wicket and forced Hashim Amla to retire hurt before South Africa passed their meagre target after less than an hour's play at Newlands.

South Africa beat Pakistan by nine wickets on the fourth day of the second Test at Newlands on Sunday. Pakistan claimed a wicket and forced Hashim Amla to retire hurt before South Africa passed their meagre target after less than an hour's play at Newlands. Set 41 to win, South Africa reached 43 for the loss of one wicket from 9.5 overs. The result ensured a seventh successive home series win for South Africa, who won the first Test in Centurion by six wickets. The third and final Test starts in Johannesburg on Friday. Regular South African opening batsman Aiden Markram did not bat after suffering a severely bruised right thigh when he fell heavily on the boundary rope while fielding on Saturday. South Africa chase down the easy target of 41 runs in just 9.5 overs as they beat Pakistan by nine wickets and seal the three-Test series 2-0. #SAvPAK SCORECARD ⬇️https://t.co/sT3TAzOBtB pic.twitter.com/fVbuwAQ3sI — ICC (@ICC) January 6, 2019 × Theunis de Bruyn, opening in place of Markram, clipped Mohammad Abbas to the midwicket boundary but did not add to his score before being caught off his glove by wicketkeeper and captain Sarfraz Ahmed while attempting to pull a bouncer from Abbas. Mohammad Amir effectively conceded 10 runs in extras off two successive deliveries, with a wide and a no-ball which both flew over Sarfraz's head. Hashim Amla was forced to retire hurt on two after being hit on the right upper arm by a ball from Amir which lifted sharply off a good length. Dean Elgar, who made 24 not out, ended the match by hitting two fours off part-time bowler Azhar Ali.

South Africa beat Pakistan by nine wickets to clinch series

<p>Indian batsman KL Rahul won hearts by his act of honesty while fielding on the third day of fourth and final Test of India-Australia series at Sydney Cricket Ground.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The incident happened when Australian batsman Marcus Harris survived a close call batting on 24 when a diving KL Rahul narrowly missed a catch.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rahul immediately signalled that it didn't carry and was bounced. He ensured that the umpires don't waste time going to the third umpire.</p>

<p>On-field umpire&nbsp;Ian Gould appreciated Rahul's honest act and gave him a thumbs up when other players started celebrating the wicket.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Opener Harris quickly found a groove with some crisp shots&nbsp;and&nbsp;went on to score&nbsp;79 off 120.</p>

<p><strong>Watch the catch here:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A good effort from Rahul and he immediately says it bounced. Great stuff. Umpire Gould a big fan of it <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CloseMatters?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CloseMatters</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/GilletteAU?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GilletteAU</a> <a href="https://t.co/7nA0H5Lsc7">pic.twitter.com/7nA0H5Lsc7</a></p>
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1081338419425337344?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">This looked out for all money, but brilliant honesty from KL Rahul to not hesitate in ruling it out.<br />
<br />
Umpire Ian Gould was certainly impressed.<br />
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📺 Watch LIVE on Fox Cricket &amp; 📰 join our match centre: <a href="https://t.co/seDJz2Ba9X">https://t.co/seDJz2Ba9X</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/FFcpp84AyI">pic.twitter.com/FFcpp84AyI</a></p>
— Fox Cricket (@FoxCricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/FoxCricket/status/1081338189661360130?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>Australia were left struggling at 236 for a loss of six wickets in their first innings in reply to India's colossal score of 622-7 when bad light stopped the play and early stumps on third day.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Play will start 30 minutes early on Sunday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When the players walked off the field, Peter Handscomb and Pat Cummins were batting on 28 and 25, respectively, as Australia trailed India's first-innings total by 386 runs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Unless Australia win, India will claim a first-ever series victory Down Under since they began touring here in 1947-48.&nbsp;</p>


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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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


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

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

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

<p>India defeated Australia by 137 runs to win the third Test of a four-match series at Melbourne Cricket Ground on Sunday. With the win, India have taken an&nbsp;unassailable 2-1 lead in the series.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Chasing a huge 399 to win, Australia were all out for 261 in the post-lunch session after the first session was washed out due to intermittent showers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India, the world's top-ranked nation, are eying the first-ever series win Down Under in Sydney later this week, where they only need a draw to smash the long-time jinx.&nbsp;</p>

<p>No team before had made more than 332 to win, and that was in 1928 by England.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">INDIA LEAD SERIES 2-1!<br />
<br />
With the wicket of Nathan Lyon, Ishant Sharma wraps Australia up for 261, powering his side to a convincing 137-run win at the MCG.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> SCORECARD 👇<a href="https://t.co/XyVZQv8kRp">https://t.co/XyVZQv8kRp</a> <a href="https://t.co/8o7GPf04yZ">pic.twitter.com/8o7GPf04yZ</a></p>
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<p>The home team were 258 for eight overnight,&nbsp;with Pat Cummins not out 61 and Nathan Lyon on six, with just Josh Hazlewood to come.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While Indian pacers were quick to take the remaining wickets to give India a historic win at MCG and also it was India's 150th Test match win.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India's yorker specialist Jasprit Bumrah stuck in his second over of the day and send back Pat Cummins, who showed immense resistance with his bat. Cummins returned to the pavilion after scoring 63 off 114.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the next over, Ishant Sharma took the last wicket as Nathan Lyon departed after scored seven runs off 50 balls.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Jasprit Bumrah gets the big wicket of Pat Cummins!<br />
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India are just one wicket away from retaining the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> LIVE 👇<a href="https://t.co/XyVZQv8kRp">https://t.co/XyVZQv8kRp</a> <a href="https://t.co/cURNQ2HP5w">pic.twitter.com/cURNQ2HP5w</a></p>
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<p>Bumrah was awarded player of the match for his brilliant bowling. He took a total of nine wickets in the third match and so far in the series, he has taken 20 wickets.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Cummins aside, no other Australian passed 50 in Melbourne, exposing their lack of batting depth and reinforcing how much they are missing the banned Steve Smith and David Warner.</p>

<p>The pair's year-long suspensions for ball-tampering run out in late March and it is widely believed that they will be reintegrated quickly into the team.</p>

<p>It leaves India zeroing in on a first-ever series win in Australia with just the Sydney Test next week to go.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India won the first Test in Adelaide by 31 runs with Australia bouncing back to claim the second in Perth by 146 runs.&nbsp;</p>


India defeated Australia by 137 runs to win the third Test of a four-match series at Melbourne Cricket Ground on Sunday. With the win, India have taken an unassailable 2-1 lead in the series.

India defeated Australia by 137 runs to win the third Test of a four-match series at Melbourne Cricket Ground on Sunday. With the win, India have taken an unassailable 2-1 lead in the series. Chasing a huge 399 to win, Australia were all out for 261 in the post-lunch session after the first session was washed out due to intermittent showers. India, the world's top-ranked nation, are eying the first-ever series win Down Under in Sydney later this week, where they only need a draw to smash the long-time jinx. No team before had made more than 332 to win, and that was in 1928 by England. INDIA LEAD SERIES 2-1! With the wicket of Nathan Lyon, Ishant Sharma wraps Australia up for 261, powering his side to a convincing 137-run win at the MCG.#AUSvIND SCORECARD 👇https://t.co/XyVZQv8kRp pic.twitter.com/8o7GPf04yZ — ICC (@ICC) December 30, 2018 × The home team were 258 for eight overnight, with Pat Cummins not out 61 and Nathan Lyon on six, with just Josh Hazlewood to come. While Indian pacers were quick to take the remaining wickets to give India a historic win at MCG and also it was India's 150th Test match win. India's yorker specialist Jasprit Bumrah stuck in his second over of the day and send back Pat Cummins, who showed immense resistance with his bat. Cummins returned to the pavilion after scoring 63 off 114. In the next over, Ishant Sharma took the last wicket as Nathan Lyon departed after scored seven runs off 50 balls. Jasprit Bumrah gets the big wicket of Pat Cummins! India are just one wicket away from retaining the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.#AUSvIND LIVE 👇https://t.co/XyVZQv8kRp pic.twitter.com/cURNQ2HP5w — ICC (@ICC) December 30, 2018 × Bumrah was awarded player of the match for his brilliant bowling. He took a total of nine wickets in the third match and so far in the series, he has taken 20 wickets. Cummins aside, no other Australian passed 50 in Melbourne, exposing their lack of batting depth and reinforcing how much they are missing the banned Steve Smith and David Warner. The pair's year-long suspensions for ball-tampering run out in late March and it is widely believed that they will be reintegrated quickly into the team. It leaves India zeroing in on a first-ever series win in Australia with just the Sydney Test next week to go. India won the first Test in Adelaide by 31 runs with Australia bouncing back to claim the second in Perth by 146 runs.

India beat Australia by 137 runs to win Melbourne Test

<p>India captain <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=virat+kohli">Virat Kohli</a> praised his side after they defeated Australia by 137 runs in Melbourne on Sunday to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-beat-australia-by-137-runs-to-win-melbourne-test-187279">win the third Test</a> of their four-match series. With the win, India have taken an unassailable 2-1 lead in the series.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While addressing the media, Virat said, "We are very happy. Leading the series for the first time in Australia. We will take the trophy back home regardless of what happens in the last Test."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Virat added, "Although our aim is to win the series here, which is what we came here thinking and that hasn't changed regardless of whatever happened."</p>

<p>"But it is important to realise this moment and it is important to understand how much hard work we have put in to reach this scoreline. We have to appreciate that as a whole team."&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Thank you to all the fans for the Love and support! A special win at The MCG. Next stop - SCG 🇮🇳 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/HR4FnnGEbA">pic.twitter.com/HR4FnnGEbA</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1079251672231104512?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 30, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Thank you, Melbourne for all the support. Onto the next one at the SCG <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/6iCBgNaLcu">pic.twitter.com/6iCBgNaLcu</a></p>
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<p>Kohli singled out bowler Jasprit Bumrah and Test debutante batsman Mayank Aggarwal for their contributions to the victory as India retained the Border-Gavaskar trophy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kohli told reporters, "Mayank's composure, his intent and belief, it was a huge boost for us. Because the way he batted at top of the order on first day, it has to be praised because it is not easy to come to Australia and start like that, and starting against such a bowling attack. He should also get a lot of credit for the win."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Virat gave a special mention to Bumrah, who was awarded player of the match for his brilliant bowling.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Jasprit obviously is the best bowler in the world, as per me. He is a match winner, without doubt."</p>

<p>Bumrah took a total of nine wickets in the third match and so far in the series, he has taken 20 wickets.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The final Test match of the series starts 3rd January in Sydney.</p>


India captain Virat Kohli praised his side after they defeated Australia by 137 runs in Melbourne on Sunday to win the third Test of their four-match series. With the win, India have taken an unassailable 2-1 lead in the series.

India captain Virat Kohli praised his side after they defeated Australia by 137 runs in Melbourne on Sunday to win the third Test of their four-match series. With the win, India have taken an unassailable 2-1 lead in the series. While addressing the media, Virat said, "We are very happy. Leading the series for the first time in Australia. We will take the trophy back home regardless of what happens in the last Test." Virat added, "Although our aim is to win the series here, which is what we came here thinking and that hasn't changed regardless of whatever happened." "But it is important to realise this moment and it is important to understand how much hard work we have put in to reach this scoreline. We have to appreciate that as a whole team." Thank you to all the fans for the Love and support! A special win at The MCG. Next stop - SCG 🇮🇳 #TeamIndia #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/HR4FnnGEbA — BCCI (@BCCI) December 30, 2018 × Thank you, Melbourne for all the support. Onto the next one at the SCG #TeamIndia #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/6iCBgNaLcu — BCCI (@BCCI) December 30, 2018 × Kohli singled out bowler Jasprit Bumrah and Test debutante batsman Mayank Aggarwal for their contributions to the victory as India retained the Border-Gavaskar trophy. Kohli told reporters, "Mayank's composure, his intent and belief, it was a huge boost for us. Because the way he batted at top of the order on first day, it has to be praised because it is not easy to come to Australia and start like that, and starting against such a bowling attack. He should also get a lot of credit for the win." Virat gave a special mention to Bumrah, who was awarded player of the match for his brilliant bowling. "Jasprit obviously is the best bowler in the world, as per me. He is a match winner, without doubt." Bumrah took a total of nine wickets in the third match and so far in the series, he has taken 20 wickets. The final Test match of the series starts 3rd January in Sydney.

Delighted Virat Kohli praises Jasprit Bumrah, Mayank Agarwal after 3rd Test victory over Australia

<p>India's star bowler <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=jasprit+bumrah">Jasprit Bumrah</a>, in his first year in Test cricket, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-in-charge-but-devastating-pat-cummins-gives-australia-hope-186970">took a career-best 6-33</a> as India took control on the third day of the third Test against Australia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Bumrah earned praises for a brilliant slower ball that dismissed Australian batsman Shaun Marsh on the third day of the third Test at Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He later explained what he thinks on that particular ball and his career-best bowling haul.</p>

<p>While speaking to the media, Bumrah said that when he was bowling on day three, wicket had become really slow and the ball became really soft.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said on the last ball before the lunch, Rohit Sharma asked him to try a slower one, what he usually does in the one-day formats.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Bumrah said he was trying to bowl a fuller slower ball and the plan really worked.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Oh what a feeling! BOOOOM!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/LncsUe0jGq">pic.twitter.com/LncsUe0jGq</a></p>
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<p>India built a 346 run lead as Australia were bowled out for 151 in their first innings, in reply to the tourists 443-7 declared.</p>

<p>Pat Cummins gave the 33,447 fans at the MCG something to cheer with four wickets in nine balls as India slumped from 28-0 to end the day on 54-5, a lead of 346.</p>

<p>Bumrah broke the 39-year-old record held by spinner Dileep Doshi as he registered the most number of wickets taken by an India bowler in a debut year.</p>

<p>"We lost a few more wickets than we wanted to but we'll assess tomorrow morning and we'll try to add as much as we can and then hopefully get them out," Bumrah told reporters.</p>

<p>The four-Test series is level at one-all and earlier, India have never won a Test series in Australia.</p>


India's star bowler Jasprit Bumrah, in his first year in Test cricket, took a career-best 6-33 as India took control on the third day of the third Test against Australia.

India's star bowler Jasprit Bumrah, in his first year in Test cricket, took a career-best 6-33 as India took control on the third day of the third Test against Australia. Bumrah earned praises for a brilliant slower ball that dismissed Australian batsman Shaun Marsh on the third day of the third Test at Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne. He later explained what he thinks on that particular ball and his career-best bowling haul. While speaking to the media, Bumrah said that when he was bowling on day three, wicket had become really slow and the ball became really soft. He said on the last ball before the lunch, Rohit Sharma asked him to try a slower one, what he usually does in the one-day formats. Bumrah said he was trying to bowl a fuller slower ball and the plan really worked. Oh what a feeling! BOOOOM!#AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/LncsUe0jGq — BCCI (@BCCI) December 28, 2018 × India built a 346 run lead as Australia were bowled out for 151 in their first innings, in reply to the tourists 443-7 declared. Pat Cummins gave the 33,447 fans at the MCG something to cheer with four wickets in nine balls as India slumped from 28-0 to end the day on 54-5, a lead of 346. Bumrah broke the 39-year-old record held by spinner Dileep Doshi as he registered the most number of wickets taken by an India bowler in a debut year. "We lost a few more wickets than we wanted to but we'll assess tomorrow morning and we'll try to add as much as we can and then hopefully get them out," Bumrah told reporters. The four-Test series is level at one-all and earlier, India have never won a Test series in Australia.

Bumrah reacts on career-best show and explains how he trapped Shaun Marsh

<p>Australia were at 258 for eight at stumps on the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/indvsaus-india-march-to-brink-of-victory-in-melbourne-test-187151">fourth day of the third Test</a> against India in Melbourne. India set a target of 399 after the visitors declared their second innings at 106 for eight.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While Australian tailenders displayed a massive resistance as they managed to add crucial runs and were behind by 141 runs at the close of play, with Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon batting on 61 and 6 respectively.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Australian spinner Lyon praised Indian bowling attack and said, "It's one of the best Indian bowling attacks that I have ever seen."&nbsp;</p>

<p>On being asked about flaws in the Australian batting unit, he said, "I see how much hard work the guys are doing in the nets and at training. You have got to remember that we are coming up against a world class bowling attack."&nbsp;</p>

<p>He further said, "I think the Indian's fast bowling attack really stood the seam up really well, and in them being able to get a fair amount of swing."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lyon gave a special mention to Indian pacer <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/jasprit-bumrah-reacts-on-his-record-breaking-6-wicket-haul-and-magic-slower-ball-that-dismissed-shaun-marsh-187011">Jasprit Bumrah</a> who took a career-best 6-33 in his first year in Test cricket.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said, "He's quick and he's got a very good slower one. Obviously, he is world-class. He has got all the skills - he has got a fast bumper, he has got a fast yorker, and he bashes (hits it) a good length. He is a pretty good all-round package when it comes to fast bowling."&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Pat Cummins enjoyed an all-round day at the <a href="https://twitter.com/MCG?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MCG</a>, following up his second innings six-for with a brilliant 61*.<br />
<br />
Australia, however, will still need a miracle to stave off defeat tomorrow.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> REPORT 👇<a href="https://t.co/fwFSGXHJdC">https://t.co/fwFSGXHJdC</a> <a href="https://t.co/zRL0MaSwmE">pic.twitter.com/zRL0MaSwmE</a></p>
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<p>The hosts require 141 runs for an improbable win, with just two wickets remaining.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are going to come out tomorrow and we are going to try and win the first ball and the first over and show a lot of fight and have a lot of pride in going at the bat there for Australia," Lyon said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The previous biggest successful run chase at the ground came in 1928 when England made 332 for seven.&nbsp;</p>


Australia were at 258 for eight at stumps on the fourth day of the third Test against India in Melbourne. India set a target of 399 after the visitors declared their second innings at 106 for eight.

Australia were at 258 for eight at stumps on the fourth day of the third Test against India in Melbourne. India set a target of 399 after the visitors declared their second innings at 106 for eight. While Australian tailenders displayed a massive resistance as they managed to add crucial runs and were behind by 141 runs at the close of play, with Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon batting on 61 and 6 respectively. Australian spinner Lyon praised Indian bowling attack and said, "It's one of the best Indian bowling attacks that I have ever seen." On being asked about flaws in the Australian batting unit, he said, "I see how much hard work the guys are doing in the nets and at training. You have got to remember that we are coming up against a world class bowling attack." He further said, "I think the Indian's fast bowling attack really stood the seam up really well, and in them being able to get a fair amount of swing." Lyon gave a special mention to Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah who took a career-best 6-33 in his first year in Test cricket. He said, "He's quick and he's got a very good slower one. Obviously, he is world-class. He has got all the skills - he has got a fast bumper, he has got a fast yorker, and he bashes (hits it) a good length. He is a pretty good all-round package when it comes to fast bowling." Pat Cummins enjoyed an all-round day at the @MCG, following up his second innings six-for with a brilliant 61*. Australia, however, will still need a miracle to stave off defeat tomorrow.#AUSvIND REPORT 👇https://t.co/fwFSGXHJdC pic.twitter.com/zRL0MaSwmE — ICC (@ICC) December 29, 2018 × The hosts require 141 runs for an improbable win, with just two wickets remaining. "We are going to come out tomorrow and we are going to try and win the first ball and the first over and show a lot of fight and have a lot of pride in going at the bat there for Australia," Lyon said. The previous biggest successful run chase at the ground came in 1928 when England made 332 for seven.

India vs Australia: One of the best Indian bowling attacks that I have ever seen, says Nathan Lyon

<p>India moved within two wickets of an emphatic victory in the third Test after reducing Australia to 258 for eight at the close of day four on Saturday.</p>

<p>Having set a mammoth victory target of 399 shortly before lunch, Virat Kohli's team attacked with precision and intensity to leave the home side on life support at the end of a muggy and overcast day at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.</p>

<p>The lion-hearted Pat Cummins thwarted India's hopes of closing out the win with a day to spare, anchoring some stubborn tail-end resistance after the top order crumbled.</p>

<p>The seamer was 61 not out, with Nathan Lyon on six, and Australia still 141 runs short of their victory target.</p>

<p>Having dominated with bat and ball throughout a one-sided contest, the tourists will almost certainly head to the Sydney finale with a 2-1 series lead and a genuine belief they can become the first Indian team to win a series Down Under.</p>

<p>On a grim day for Australian cricket, Cummins was the only shining light for the home side, and recorded career-best figures of 6-27 before Kohli declared India's second innings at 106-8 before lunch.</p>

<p>However, Cummins's heroics will likely be consigned to a foot-note, squandered as they were by the familiar batting failures of his team mates.</p>

<p>Where straight bats were required to provide a platform of resistance, Aaron Finch got his team off to the worst possible start by throwing away his wicket for three with an unsightly cut shot off Jasprit Bumrah that was gobbled in the slips.</p>

<p>Recalled all-rounder Mitchell Marsh was similarly wasteful, slogging spinner Ravindra Jadeja straight to Kohli at short cover to be out for 10.</p>

<p>Having done the hard work to get set in his innings, Travis Head (34) fell on his sword after tea by dragging Ishant Sharma onto his stumps with a dubious drive away from his body.</p>

<p>Amid the help from Australia's poor shot selection, India produced moments of brilliance to remove their more assured batsmen.</p>

<p>Mohammed Shami dismissed Usman Khawaja lbw for 33 shortly after lunch with a peach of a delivery, before Bumrah trapped Shaun Marsh for 44 with a searing ball.</p>

<p>The wily Jadeja proved a constant menace, and induced an edge off Marcus Harris (13) that lodged in Mayank Agarwal's mid-riff.</p>

<p>The left-arm spinner later returned to dismiss wicketkeeper-captain Tim Paine for 26, leaving Australia to rely on their tail and a miracle to stave off defeat.</p>


India moved within two wickets of an emphatic victory in the third Test after reducing Australia to 258 for eight at the close of day four on Saturday. Having set a mammoth victory target of 399 shortly before lunch, Virat Kohli's team attacked with precision and intensity to leave the home side on life support at the end of a muggy and overcast day at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

India moved within two wickets of an emphatic victory in the third Test after reducing Australia to 258 for eight at the close of day four on Saturday. Having set a mammoth victory target of 399 shortly before lunch, Virat Kohli's team attacked with precision and intensity to leave the home side on life support at the end of a muggy and overcast day at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. The lion-hearted Pat Cummins thwarted India's hopes of closing out the win with a day to spare, anchoring some stubborn tail-end resistance after the top order crumbled. The seamer was 61 not out, with Nathan Lyon on six, and Australia still 141 runs short of their victory target. Having dominated with bat and ball throughout a one-sided contest, the tourists will almost certainly head to the Sydney finale with a 2-1 series lead and a genuine belief they can become the first Indian team to win a series Down Under. On a grim day for Australian cricket, Cummins was the only shining light for the home side, and recorded career-best figures of 6-27 before Kohli declared India's second innings at 106-8 before lunch. However, Cummins's heroics will likely be consigned to a foot-note, squandered as they were by the familiar batting failures of his team mates. Where straight bats were required to provide a platform of resistance, Aaron Finch got his team off to the worst possible start by throwing away his wicket for three with an unsightly cut shot off Jasprit Bumrah that was gobbled in the slips. Recalled all-rounder Mitchell Marsh was similarly wasteful, slogging spinner Ravindra Jadeja straight to Kohli at short cover to be out for 10. Having done the hard work to get set in his innings, Travis Head (34) fell on his sword after tea by dragging Ishant Sharma onto his stumps with a dubious drive away from his body. Amid the help from Australia's poor shot selection, India produced moments of brilliance to remove their more assured batsmen. Mohammed Shami dismissed Usman Khawaja lbw for 33 shortly after lunch with a peach of a delivery, before Bumrah trapped Shaun Marsh for 44 with a searing ball. The wily Jadeja proved a constant menace, and induced an edge off Marcus Harris (13) that lodged in Mayank Agarwal's mid-riff. The left-arm spinner later returned to dismiss wicketkeeper-captain Tim Paine for 26, leaving Australia to rely on their tail and a miracle to stave off defeat.

INDvsAUS: India march to brink of victory in Melbourne Test

<p>A clinical India had Australia on the ropes Friday and staring at defeat in the third Test after skittling them for 151 before a devastating spell by Pat Cummins sparked the game back into life.</p>

<p>At stumps, the visitors had a formidable 346 cushion with five wickets left and two days to play as they inch closer to a first ever series win Down Under. The series is currently tied at 1-1 with just the Sydney Test next week to go.</p>

<p>Once again the home team's batting frailties were exposed as they struggled not only with a deteriorating Melbourne pitch but outstanding bowling from young pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah.</p>

<p>He ended with a career-best 6-33, collecting his third five-wicket Test haul having also achieved the feat against South Africa and England.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Stumps on Day 3 of the 3rd Test.<br />
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A total of 15 wickets have fallen today. After bowling Australia out for 151, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> are 54/5 in the second innings, lead by 346 runs.<br />
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<p>With a 292-run first innings advantage, Indian skipper Virat Kohli could have enforced the follow-on but instead opted to turn the screws and add to the imposing total.</p>

<p>But his batsmen also found it tough going and they slumped to 54 for five, with first innings century-maker Cheteshwar Pujara and Kohli himself sensationally out for ducks.</p>

<p>Cummins was Australia's best bowler in India's first innings 443-7 declared and was chief destroyer on Friday, claiming an amazing 4-3 off his first four overs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>His scalps also included opener Hanuma Vihari (13) and vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane (1).</p>

<p>Josh Hazlewood chipped in with the wicket of Rohit Sharma (5) with debutant Mayank Agarwal watching the carnage from the other end. He was not out 28 with Rishabh Pant on six.</p>

<p>None of Australia's batsmen could muster more than 22, again demonstrating how much they miss the banned Steve Smith and David Warner.</p>

<p>Talk surrounding the pair's reintegration into the team reached a crescendo this week after Smith and Cameron Bancroft gave tell-all interviews about the South Africa ball-tampering scandal, effectively blaming Warner.</p>

<p>Their bans run out in late March.</p>

<p>In overcast conditions, Australia began the day with eight runs on the scoreboard after surviving six nervy overs on Thursday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But with the pitch showing wear and tear, it wasn't long before the bowlers took advantage.</p>

<p>Aaron Finch smashed a four off Bumrah in a positive start but once again Australia's limited overs captain failed as a Test opener.</p>

<p>He was on eight when he feebly chipped an Ishant Sharma delivery to Agarwal at short midwicket, who took a difficult diving catch.</p>

<p>That brought Usman Khawaja to the crease, just hours after his brother was re-arrested for allegedly breaching bail and charged with trying to influence a witness.</p>

<p>Arsalan Khawaja had been detained earlier this month, then bailed, after being accused of framing a love rival as the author of a terrorist hit list.</p>

<p>Khawaja was only at the wicket for a short time before Australia's other opener Marcus Harris also fell, plunging the home team into strife at 36 for two.</p>

<p>Khawaja didn't last much longer, despondently trudging off for 21 after Agarwal took another catch close in off spinner Ravindra Jadeja, who was finding the rough and causing problems.</p>

<p>Shaun Marsh was then deceived on the last ball of the morning by some late swing from Bumrah to be plum lbw.</p>

<p>The afternoon didn't get any better with Travis Head's stumps knocked over by a quick Bumrah delivery and then Mitchell Marsh tickled a Jadeja ball to Rahane at slip, with the last four wickets falling for just 13 runs.</p>


A clinical India had Australia on the ropes Friday and staring at defeat in the third Test after skittling them for 151 before a devastating spell by Pat Cummins sparked the game back into life.

A clinical India had Australia on the ropes Friday and staring at defeat in the third Test after skittling them for 151 before a devastating spell by Pat Cummins sparked the game back into life. At stumps, the visitors had a formidable 346 cushion with five wickets left and two days to play as they inch closer to a first ever series win Down Under. The series is currently tied at 1-1 with just the Sydney Test next week to go. Once again the home team's batting frailties were exposed as they struggled not only with a deteriorating Melbourne pitch but outstanding bowling from young pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah. He ended with a career-best 6-33, collecting his third five-wicket Test haul having also achieved the feat against South Africa and England. Stumps on Day 3 of the 3rd Test. A total of 15 wickets have fallen today. After bowling Australia out for 151, #TeamIndia are 54/5 in the second innings, lead by 346 runs. Updates - https://t.co/xZXZnUvzvk #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/p74NK3LUKb — BCCI (@BCCI) December 28, 2018 × With a 292-run first innings advantage, Indian skipper Virat Kohli could have enforced the follow-on but instead opted to turn the screws and add to the imposing total. But his batsmen also found it tough going and they slumped to 54 for five, with first innings century-maker Cheteshwar Pujara and Kohli himself sensationally out for ducks. Cummins was Australia's best bowler in India's first innings 443-7 declared and was chief destroyer on Friday, claiming an amazing 4-3 off his first four overs. His scalps also included opener Hanuma Vihari (13) and vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane (1). Josh Hazlewood chipped in with the wicket of Rohit Sharma (5) with debutant Mayank Agarwal watching the carnage from the other end. He was not out 28 with Rishabh Pant on six. None of Australia's batsmen could muster more than 22, again demonstrating how much they miss the banned Steve Smith and David Warner. Talk surrounding the pair's reintegration into the team reached a crescendo this week after Smith and Cameron Bancroft gave tell-all interviews about the South Africa ball-tampering scandal, effectively blaming Warner. Their bans run out in late March. In overcast conditions, Australia began the day with eight runs on the scoreboard after surviving six nervy overs on Thursday. But with the pitch showing wear and tear, it wasn't long before the bowlers took advantage. Aaron Finch smashed a four off Bumrah in a positive start but once again Australia's limited overs captain failed as a Test opener. He was on eight when he feebly chipped an Ishant Sharma delivery to Agarwal at short midwicket, who took a difficult diving catch. That brought Usman Khawaja to the crease, just hours after his brother was re-arrested for allegedly breaching bail and charged with trying to influence a witness. Arsalan Khawaja had been detained earlier this month, then bailed, after being accused of framing a love rival as the author of a terrorist hit list. Khawaja was only at the wicket for a short time before Australia's other opener Marcus Harris also fell, plunging the home team into strife at 36 for two. Khawaja didn't last much longer, despondently trudging off for 21 after Agarwal took another catch close in off spinner Ravindra Jadeja, who was finding the rough and causing problems. Shaun Marsh was then deceived on the last ball of the morning by some late swing from Bumrah to be plum lbw. The afternoon didn't get any better with Travis Head's stumps knocked over by a quick Bumrah delivery and then Mitchell Marsh tickled a Jadeja ball to Rahane at slip, with the last four wickets falling for just 13 runs.

INDvsAUS, 3rd Test, Day 3: India in charge but devastating Pat Cummins gives Australia hope

<p>Cricket Australia Friday warned a section of the MCG crowd after it emerged that Indian cricketers were subjected to racist chants in the ongoing <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=india+vs+australia%2C+3rd+test">third Test</a> here, a media report has claimed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to media reports, CA received several complaints of racial taunts directed towards Indian players and fans during the first two days of the third Test. The four-Test series tied 1-1 right now.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The website claimed that it had footage of the specific instances and it passed that on to CA. The CA forwarded it to Victoria Police and the stadium management and it is alleged that spectators can be seen shouting "show us your visa" in the bottom tier of the MCG's Great Southern Stand.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It reportedly prompted CA to tell fans to behave themselves or risk eviction.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Victoria Police and stadium security are monitoring the behaviour of the crowd in that section of the stadium and have had several discussions with those fans in that bay to remind them about appropriate crowd behaviour, as per venue entry terms and conditions," a CA spokesperson was quoted as saying.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Indian skipper Virat Kohli, who scored 82 in the first innings, was also subjected to booing and abusive chants.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Australia all-rounder Mitchell Marsh, who has replaced Peter Handscomb in the third Test, was also booed by the spectators on the opening day.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This is not the first time the MCG crowd has been warned against racial behaviour. A similar incident was reported during the Boxing Day Test in 2005 with South African fast bowler Andre Nel at the receiving end.&nbsp;</p>


Cricket Australia Friday warned a section of the MCG crowd after it emerged that Indian cricketers were subjected to racist chants in the ongoing third Test here, a media report has claimed.

Cricket Australia Friday warned a section of the MCG crowd after it emerged that Indian cricketers were subjected to racist chants in the ongoing third Test here, a media report has claimed. According to media reports, CA received several complaints of racial taunts directed towards Indian players and fans during the first two days of the third Test. The four-Test series tied 1-1 right now. The website claimed that it had footage of the specific instances and it passed that on to CA. The CA forwarded it to Victoria Police and the stadium management and it is alleged that spectators can be seen shouting "show us your visa" in the bottom tier of the MCG's Great Southern Stand. It reportedly prompted CA to tell fans to behave themselves or risk eviction. "Victoria Police and stadium security are monitoring the behaviour of the crowd in that section of the stadium and have had several discussions with those fans in that bay to remind them about appropriate crowd behaviour, as per venue entry terms and conditions," a CA spokesperson was quoted as saying. Indian skipper Virat Kohli, who scored 82 in the first innings, was also subjected to booing and abusive chants. Australia all-rounder Mitchell Marsh, who has replaced Peter Handscomb in the third Test, was also booed by the spectators on the opening day. This is not the first time the MCG crowd has been warned against racial behaviour. A similar incident was reported during the Boxing Day Test in 2005 with South African fast bowler Andre Nel at the receiving end.

Cricket Australia warns MCG fans against racist chants: Report

<p>Bundled out for a paltry 151 in the first innings, pacer Pat Cummins on Friday said Australian batsmen need to learn a lot from India captain <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=virat+kohli">Virat Kohli</a> and Cheteshwar Pujara on how to pace their knocks on this MCG pitch.</p>

<p>Pujara and Kohli had put on 170 runs in the first innings to help India declare at a mammoth 443 for seven and Cummins said the Australian batsmen need to take a cue from the visiting duo's temperament.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It was obviously not ideal. We turned up thinking of a good first innings score and be right in the game. We wanted to take this result away from them. This is a young batting group and they are working hard. They are trying their best, but it is just one of those things. Today it didn't come off," Cummins said after the day's play.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"What we saw from India's first innings, we saw temperament of Pujara and Virat and how they pace their innings. They absorb pressure because on this kind of wicket, it is hard to score runs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"You have to face a lot of balls to get big scores and it is probably one of those wickets where you do the hard work early. Keep absorbing pressure and score later, but evidently it did not work for us today," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Riding on Cummins' four for 10 figures, Australia reduced India to 54 for five in the second innings of the ongoing <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-in-charge-but-devastating-pat-cummins-gives-australia-hope-186970">third Test</a> but still trail the visitors by 346 runs after conceding a first innings lead of 292 runs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The fast bowler said in the absence of their two best batsmen - banned duo of Steve Smith and David Warner, others have to rise to the occasion to give India a tough fight in the remaining two days of the match.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It's always going to be hard missing two of your best players. We've known for nine months (that Steve Smith and David Warner won't be available).</p>

<p>thers have to stand up. It probably highlights the class they've had in previous years but we've got find to find a way," Cummins said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Everyone here is good enough. They've done it at the level below, all of them are the best (Sheffield) Shield players and most of them have done it for Australia before. Wicket feels pretty good still, so everyone feels like in the second innings they can face more balls and get going," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Cummins was the wrecker-in-chief In India's second innings with his impressive figures.&nbsp;</p>

<p>And the pacer said they wanted to make things tough for India in the second things and still dare to dream for a positive result over the next two days.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I am pretty tired, exhausted but the good thing is that coming into this series I felt really fresh. Hopefully, there won't be too many overs tomorrow and we won't have to bowl last in this game. So hopefully there will be a 4-5 day break before Sydney," Cummins said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"If we knock them over in the morning, you just never know. We tried to make it very hard for every run. The wicket is still pretty good, tough to score runs.</p>

<p>ut we saw last year we batted really well on day four and five (at the MCG), you dare to dream.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"But it's still a long way left in the game. For India to move the game forward will be hard tomorrow. They will have to bat long and we will just take it as deep as possible," he signed off.</p>


Bundled out for a paltry 151 in the first innings, pacer Pat Cummins on Friday said Australian batsmen need to learn a lot from India captain Virat Kohli and Cheteshwar Pujara on how to pace their knocks on this MCG pitch.

Bundled out for a paltry 151 in the first innings, pacer Pat Cummins on Friday said Australian batsmen need to learn a lot from India captain Virat Kohli and Cheteshwar Pujara on how to pace their knocks on this MCG pitch. Pujara and Kohli had put on 170 runs in the first innings to help India declare at a mammoth 443 for seven and Cummins said the Australian batsmen need to take a cue from the visiting duo's temperament. "It was obviously not ideal. We turned up thinking of a good first innings score and be right in the game. We wanted to take this result away from them. This is a young batting group and they are working hard. They are trying their best, but it is just one of those things. Today it didn't come off," Cummins said after the day's play. "What we saw from India's first innings, we saw temperament of Pujara and Virat and how they pace their innings. They absorb pressure because on this kind of wicket, it is hard to score runs. "You have to face a lot of balls to get big scores and it is probably one of those wickets where you do the hard work early. Keep absorbing pressure and score later, but evidently it did not work for us today," he added. Riding on Cummins' four for 10 figures, Australia reduced India to 54 for five in the second innings of the ongoing third Test but still trail the visitors by 346 runs after conceding a first innings lead of 292 runs. The fast bowler said in the absence of their two best batsmen - banned duo of Steve Smith and David Warner, others have to rise to the occasion to give India a tough fight in the remaining two days of the match. "It's always going to be hard missing two of your best players. We've known for nine months (that Steve Smith and David Warner won't be available). thers have to stand up. It probably highlights the class they've had in previous years but we've got find to find a way," Cummins said. "Everyone here is good enough. They've done it at the level below, all of them are the best (Sheffield) Shield players and most of them have done it for Australia before. Wicket feels pretty good still, so everyone feels like in the second innings they can face more balls and get going," he added. Cummins was the wrecker-in-chief In India's second innings with his impressive figures. And the pacer said they wanted to make things tough for India in the second things and still dare to dream for a positive result over the next two days. "I am pretty tired, exhausted but the good thing is that coming into this series I felt really fresh. Hopefully, there won't be too many overs tomorrow and we won't have to bowl last in this game. So hopefully there will be a 4-5 day break before Sydney," Cummins said. "If we knock them over in the morning, you just never know. We tried to make it very hard for every run. The wicket is still pretty good, tough to score runs. ut we saw last year we batted really well on day four and five (at the MCG), you dare to dream. "But it's still a long way left in the game. For India to move the game forward will be hard tomorrow. They will have to bat long and we will just take it as deep as possible," he signed off.

Need to bat like Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli in second innings: Pat Cummins

Bumrah barrage puts India in charge in Melbourne

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=virat+kohli">Virat Kohli</a> might have come under sharp criticism from various quarters for his on-field aggressive behaviour but former Australia spinner Brad Hogg Saturday defended the India captain, saying the visiting team derives energy from him.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Virat Kohli is the energy of this Indian team. He is their clear leader and they feed off him. You just see him on the field - his athleticism is different and he expects that from the Indian team," Hogg told PTI.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"And what he expects from the team, he does as well, so it is not as if he is telling the team what to do without leading from the front. He is actually leading from the front and asking his teammates to follow him," he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Talking about Kohli's batting, Hogg said: "As a batsman too, Kohli is on a different level to anyone else. Perhaps only Usman Khawaja came close, that too in the second innings where he batted with a lot of composure," said 47-year-old Hogg who played seven Tests between 1996 to 2008.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"But even then, they don't have someone on the same level as Kohli. He is a different batsman to everybody else - he finds boundaries and rotates strike, and turns momentum of the game at will," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hogg said India would need to find balance going into the third Test to put Australia under pressure. He said both the teams might look to play a pace-bowling all-round at the MCG.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The four-match Test series is now levelled at 1-1, with India winning in Adelaide and Australia drawing level in Perth.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hogg said he hopes to see a close contest in the remaining two Tests.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I only really want a close series. We have had two close Test matches, and that's what we want. We want Australia tested on their home soil and they have been tested a couple of times previously by Indian teams coming here," said the left-arm spinner.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It will be interesting to see how India will balance their team going into the MCG Test. Both teams might look to play the extra bowler by picking the all-rounder and added to their bowling depth."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hogg heaped praise on Indian pacers and said it would be a huge opportunity for the visitors against a 'relatively weak' Australian side.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"India have to be proud with the way their pacers have bowled in both Tests. They have been aggressive and won the first Test, and it was very important because it gave them energy and belief," he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This is a huge opportunity for India because of the relative weakness of the Australian team. So that adds pressure and it plays on back of their minds. Perth tested this bowling attack's character and they showed true fight, but didn't score enough runs."&nbsp;</p>

<p>India also faced flak for not playing a spinner at the Perth pitch where Nathan Lyon scalped eight wickets, despite the wicket favouring the pacers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hogg backed the decision saying in absence of injured Ravichandran Ashwin, India simply couldn't play Ravindra Jadeja or Kuldeep Yadav for a lack of aid from the pace-friendly pitch.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"See, Ashwin wasn't fit and yes, they did have Jadeja and Kuldeep. I would have loved to see Kuldeep bowl on that track, but even Nathan Lyon didn't get too much turn," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"As for Jadeja, he would have been spinning into a long left-handed Australian line-up so India probably had that point at the back of their mind. I suspect India might have made the right decision but it came down to the first hour on day one," he opined.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hogg said the Australian openers have made all the difference in the series so far for the home team, surely as compared to their Indian counterparts.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It was an enthralling Test match and India can be proud of how they fought. But the difference was in the opening partnerships. The way Marcus Harris and Aaron Finch added 112 runs, they made India chase the game from the first hour on day one," he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Indian pacers couldn't figure out line or length for the first two sessions and that's where this game got away from them.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It happens sometimes in Perth, when opposition teams arrive here. They can get carried away seeing the green grass or bounce, and are not able to adjust lengths. It gave Australia impetus and India never recovered from there," Hogg said.&nbsp;</p>


Virat Kohli might have come under sharp criticism from various quarters for his on-field aggressive behaviour but former Australia spinner Brad Hogg Saturday defended the India captain, saying the visiting team derives energy from him.

Virat Kohli might have come under sharp criticism from various quarters for his on-field aggressive behaviour but former Australia spinner Brad Hogg Saturday defended the India captain, saying the visiting team derives energy from him. "Virat Kohli is the energy of this Indian team. He is their clear leader and they feed off him. You just see him on the field - his athleticism is different and he expects that from the Indian team," Hogg told PTI. "And what he expects from the team, he does as well, so it is not as if he is telling the team what to do without leading from the front. He is actually leading from the front and asking his teammates to follow him," he added. Talking about Kohli's batting, Hogg said: "As a batsman too, Kohli is on a different level to anyone else. Perhaps only Usman Khawaja came close, that too in the second innings where he batted with a lot of composure," said 47-year-old Hogg who played seven Tests between 1996 to 2008. "But even then, they don't have someone on the same level as Kohli. He is a different batsman to everybody else - he finds boundaries and rotates strike, and turns momentum of the game at will," he added. Hogg said India would need to find balance going into the third Test to put Australia under pressure. He said both the teams might look to play a pace-bowling all-round at the MCG. The four-match Test series is now levelled at 1-1, with India winning in Adelaide and Australia drawing level in Perth. Hogg said he hopes to see a close contest in the remaining two Tests. "I only really want a close series. We have had two close Test matches, and that's what we want. We want Australia tested on their home soil and they have been tested a couple of times previously by Indian teams coming here," said the left-arm spinner. "It will be interesting to see how India will balance their team going into the MCG Test. Both teams might look to play the extra bowler by picking the all-rounder and added to their bowling depth." Hogg heaped praise on Indian pacers and said it would be a huge opportunity for the visitors against a 'relatively weak' Australian side. "India have to be proud with the way their pacers have bowled in both Tests. They have been aggressive and won the first Test, and it was very important because it gave them energy and belief," he said. "This is a huge opportunity for India because of the relative weakness of the Australian team. So that adds pressure and it plays on back of their minds. Perth tested this bowling attack's character and they showed true fight, but didn't score enough runs." India also faced flak for not playing a spinner at the Perth pitch where Nathan Lyon scalped eight wickets, despite the wicket favouring the pacers. Hogg backed the decision saying in absence of injured Ravichandran Ashwin, India simply couldn't play Ravindra Jadeja or Kuldeep Yadav for a lack of aid from the pace-friendly pitch. "See, Ashwin wasn't fit and yes, they did have Jadeja and Kuldeep. I would have loved to see Kuldeep bowl on that track, but even Nathan Lyon didn't get too much turn," he said. "As for Jadeja, he would have been spinning into a long left-handed Australian line-up so India probably had that point at the back of their mind. I suspect India might have made the right decision but it came down to the first hour on day one," he opined. Hogg said the Australian openers have made all the difference in the series so far for the home team, surely as compared to their Indian counterparts. "It was an enthralling Test match and India can be proud of how they fought. But the difference was in the opening partnerships. The way Marcus Harris and Aaron Finch added 112 runs, they made India chase the game from the first hour on day one," he said. "Indian pacers couldn't figure out line or length for the first two sessions and that's where this game got away from them. "It happens sometimes in Perth, when opposition teams arrive here. They can get carried away seeing the green grass or bounce, and are not able to adjust lengths. It gave Australia impetus and India never recovered from there," Hogg said.

Virat Kohli is the energy of Indian team: Brad Hogg

<p>Australia beat India by 146 runs in the morning session of the fifth and final day of the second Test on Tuesday to level up the four-match series at 1-1.</p>

<p>The tourists, chasing 287 runs for victory, were dismissed for 140 at the new Perth Stadium when Jasprit Bumrah was caught and bowled by quick Pat Cummins as the last wicket of the innings.</p>

<p>Left-arm paceman Mitchell Starc finished with 3-46, while spinner Nathan Lyon took 3-39 on a feisty pitch. For India, Ajinkya Rahane made 30 with the bat and Rishabh Pant also 30.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">🙌 AUSTRALIA WIN 🙌<br />
<br />
The hosts register a convincing 146-run win by bowling India out for 140 early in the morning session on Day 5.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> SCORECARD ⬇️ <a href="https://t.co/viG01B7TWC">https://t.co/viG01B7TWC</a> <a href="https://t.co/siotOPs9LR">pic.twitter.com/siotOPs9LR</a></p>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1074870379561111552?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>In the post-match&nbsp;presentation, Virat Kohli said, "Australia played better cricket than us and they deserved to win."</p>

<p>Cricket pundits questioned&nbsp;Virat's decision&nbsp;to play with four seamers and not picking a single spinner in the playing squad for Perth Test.</p>

<p>India skipper Kohli said, "When we looked at the pitch, we didn't think about the Jadeja option. We thought four quicks would be enough."</p>

<p>He justified saying, "We never thought about the spin option, to be honest."</p>

<p>Kohli praised spinner Lyon, who won player of the match, for his brilliant performance. Kohli said, "Nathan Lyon bowled really well."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">With match-winning figures of 8/106 in the Perth Test, Nathan Lyon is named the Player of the Match. 👏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/agHLjqKga5">pic.twitter.com/agHLjqKga5</a></p>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1074878396847382528?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>It was a first win in eight Test matches for Australia. India, who won the opener at Adelaide Oval by 31 runs, have never won a Test series in Australia.</p>

<p>The series continues with the Boxing Day Test at Melbourne Cricket Ground starting on December 26 before concluding with the fourth Test in Sydney in the New Year.</p>


Australia beat India by 146 runs in the morning session of the fifth and final day of the second Test on Tuesday to level up the four-match series at 1-1. The tourists, chasing 287 runs for victory, were dismissed for 140 at the new Perth Stadium when Jasprit Bumrah was caught and bowled by quick Pat Cummins as the last wicket of the innings.

Australia beat India by 146 runs in the morning session of the fifth and final day of the second Test on Tuesday to level up the four-match series at 1-1. The tourists, chasing 287 runs for victory, were dismissed for 140 at the new Perth Stadium when Jasprit Bumrah was caught and bowled by quick Pat Cummins as the last wicket of the innings. Left-arm paceman Mitchell Starc finished with 3-46, while spinner Nathan Lyon took 3-39 on a feisty pitch. For India, Ajinkya Rahane made 30 with the bat and Rishabh Pant also 30. 🙌 AUSTRALIA WIN 🙌 The hosts register a convincing 146-run win by bowling India out for 140 early in the morning session on Day 5.#AUSvIND SCORECARD ⬇️ https://t.co/viG01B7TWC pic.twitter.com/siotOPs9LR — ICC (@ICC) December 18, 2018 × In the post-match presentation, Virat Kohli said, "Australia played better cricket than us and they deserved to win." Cricket pundits questioned Virat's decision to play with four seamers and not picking a single spinner in the playing squad for Perth Test. India skipper Kohli said, "When we looked at the pitch, we didn't think about the Jadeja option. We thought four quicks would be enough." He justified saying, "We never thought about the spin option, to be honest." Kohli praised spinner Lyon, who won player of the match, for his brilliant performance. Kohli said, "Nathan Lyon bowled really well." With match-winning figures of 8/106 in the Perth Test, Nathan Lyon is named the Player of the Match. 👏#AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/agHLjqKga5 — ICC (@ICC) December 18, 2018 × It was a first win in eight Test matches for Australia. India, who won the opener at Adelaide Oval by 31 runs, have never won a Test series in Australia. The series continues with the Boxing Day Test at Melbourne Cricket Ground starting on December 26 before concluding with the fourth Test in Sydney in the New Year.

Australia thrash India to win Perth Test by 146 runs, level series 1-1

<p>Warring captains Virat Kohli and Tim Paine on Monday resumed their verbal duel, forcing on-field umpire Chris Gaffaney to warn both the players on the fourth morning of the second Test between India and Australia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the 71st over bowled by Jasprit Bumrah, the respective captains were seen exchanging words after Kohli decided to field close to the non-striker and Gaffaney had to step in.</p>

<p>"You're the one that lost it yesterday. Why are you trying to be cool today" Paine told Kohli.</p>

<p>"That's enough, that's enough," Gaffaney interrupted.</p>

<p>"Come on, play the game. You guys are the captains. Tim, you're the captain."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Paine replied: "We're just having a conversation. There's no swearing ... Keep your cool Virat."</p>

<p><strong>Also Watch: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-stump-mic-reveals-on-pitch-chats-between-virat-kohli-and-tim-paine-in-perth-test-184628">Stump mic reveals ugly on-pitch chats between Kohli and Paine in Perth Test</a></strong></p>

<p>Kohli said something which couldn't be picked up by the microphones.</p>

<p>A couple of balls later, the warring duo almost came close to chest bumping when the India skipper walked in front of Paine while he was completing a run.</p>

<p>Kohli later appeared to plead his case to square-leg umpire Kumar Dharmasena as Paine and Usman Khawaja continued to extend Australia's second-innings lead.</p>

<p>"I reckon it's a sign Kohli is starting to lose it," former Test bowler Damien Fleming said on SEN radio.</p>

<p>India commentator Sanjay Manjrekar wasn't too pleased with Kohli's behaviour but former Australian skippers Ricky Ponting and Michael Clarke said they had no issue with the verbal exchange between the two captains and that no line has been crossed so far.</p>


Warring captains Virat Kohli and Tim Paine on Monday resumed their verbal duel, forcing on-field umpire Chris Gaffaney to warn both the players on the fourth morning of the second Test between India and Australia.

Warring captains Virat Kohli and Tim Paine on Monday resumed their verbal duel, forcing on-field umpire Chris Gaffaney to warn both the players on the fourth morning of the second Test between India and Australia. During the 71st over bowled by Jasprit Bumrah, the respective captains were seen exchanging words after Kohli decided to field close to the non-striker and Gaffaney had to step in. "You're the one that lost it yesterday. Why are you trying to be cool today" Paine told Kohli. "That's enough, that's enough," Gaffaney interrupted. "Come on, play the game. You guys are the captains. Tim, you're the captain." Paine replied: "We're just having a conversation. There's no swearing ... Keep your cool Virat." Also Watch: Stump mic reveals ugly on-pitch chats between Kohli and Paine in Perth Test Kohli said something which couldn't be picked up by the microphones. A couple of balls later, the warring duo almost came close to chest bumping when the India skipper walked in front of Paine while he was completing a run. Kohli later appeared to plead his case to square-leg umpire Kumar Dharmasena as Paine and Usman Khawaja continued to extend Australia's second-innings lead. "I reckon it's a sign Kohli is starting to lose it," former Test bowler Damien Fleming said on SEN radio. India commentator Sanjay Manjrekar wasn't too pleased with Kohli's behaviour but former Australian skippers Ricky Ponting and Michael Clarke said they had no issue with the verbal exchange between the two captains and that no line has been crossed so far.

India vs Australia: Umpire issues warning to Kohli, Paine as their on-pitch chat continued on Day 4

<p>Australia opener Aaron Finch has been cleared of a serious finger injury and is set to resume his innings on a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/indvsaus-2nd-test-day-4-india-vs-australia-184637">pivotal day four</a> on Monday as the hosts look to set India a formidable target in the second test.</p>

<p>There were fears Finch's series might be over after he received a nasty blow on his right glove from a searing short ball from Mohammed Shami on the stroke of tea on day three.</p>

<p>Finch, who retired hurt on 25, went to hospital for X-Rays amid concern that he had suffered a fracture to his right index finger.</p>

<p>Scans confirmed there was no fracture and he batted in the Perth Stadium nets before play resumed on the fourth day.</p>

<p>Australia, 1-0 down in the four-match series, were 132 for four in their second innings overnight with a lead of 175 runs.</p>


Australia opener Aaron Finch has been cleared of a serious finger injury and is set to resume his innings on a pivotal day four on Monday as the hosts look to set India a formidable target in the second test.

Australia opener Aaron Finch has been cleared of a serious finger injury and is set to resume his innings on a pivotal day four on Monday as the hosts look to set India a formidable target in the second test. There were fears Finch's series might be over after he received a nasty blow on his right glove from a searing short ball from Mohammed Shami on the stroke of tea on day three. Finch, who retired hurt on 25, went to hospital for X-Rays amid concern that he had suffered a fracture to his right index finger. Scans confirmed there was no fracture and he batted in the Perth Stadium nets before play resumed on the fourth day. Australia, 1-0 down in the four-match series, were 132 for four in their second innings overnight with a lead of 175 runs.

India vs Australia: Aaron Finch cleared to bat on crucial fourth day

<p>The stump&nbsp;mic has revealed the ugly war of words between Indian captain Virat Kohli and Australian skipper Tim Paine on the third day of Perth Test on Sunday.</p>

<p>The match got spiced up on the third day when Virat Kohli completed his&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-virat-kohli-slams-25th-test-century-in-perth-test-184408">25th Test</a> hundred got India to 283 runs but&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-out-or-not-out-debate-over-virat-kohlis-wicket-is-on-184445">caught at second slip</a>&nbsp;after a controversial catch by Peter Handscomb.</p>

<p>Virat looked unhappy with the decision and tensions flared-up when Australia started batting in their second innings.</p>

<p>Both the captains,&nbsp;Virat Kohli and Tim Paine, kept exchanging words, which carried on until stumps.</p>

<p>The hosts finished 175 runs ahead on day three.</p>

<p>Virat was heard yelling at Paine,&nbsp;"If he messes it up, it's 2-0."</p>

<p>The chats were picked up by the microphone after he and his teammates made a loud caught-behind appeal for Paine in the final over of the day.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Australian captain did not hold himself back and replied: "You've got to bat first, **** head".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch the video:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">KOHLI : If u mess it up it's 2-0<br />
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PAINE : You Got to Bat First D***Head<br />
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Verbals from Skippers😂😂<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvsIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvsIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/Bjtx6VTT2B">pic.twitter.com/Bjtx6VTT2B</a></p>
— karthick shivaraman (@ISkarthi) <a href="https://twitter.com/ISkarthi/status/1074292853742829569?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>The hosts star-spinner Nathan Lyon, however, played down the incident.</p>

<p>"I think Tim just asked him where he was going for dinner that's all. I've played enough cricket against Virat to know what he's like, and I'm not worried about what he's doing or what India's doing," said Lyon.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Virat is a great player, he plays on emotion, we all know that, and to be honest I'm not too concerned how Virat reacts or the way he conducts himself. I'm just worried about what we can control in the Australian dressing room and I thought as bowlers we came out today and performed pretty well," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lyon said: "The wicket seems like it's starting to play a few more little tricks. We were expecting the cracks to play a little bit more, but with that rain yesterday it probably softened our ball up quite a fair bit. I know as bowlers the ball in cricket terms felt like it had no air left in it, so it lost a little bit of zip off the wicket.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"But we were pretty happy with the way we bowled and we know that come the second dig we can bowl much better than that. So we can take a few lessons off that first innings," he added.&nbsp;</p>


The stump mic has revealed the ugly war of words between Indian captain Virat Kohli and Australian skipper Tim Paine on the third day of Perth Test on Sunday. The match got spiced up on the third day when Virat Kohli completed his 25th Test hundred got India to 283 runs but caught at second slip after a controversial catch by Peter Handscomb.

The stump mic has revealed the ugly war of words between Indian captain Virat Kohli and Australian skipper Tim Paine on the third day of Perth Test on Sunday. The match got spiced up on the third day when Virat Kohli completed his 25th Test hundred got India to 283 runs but caught at second slip after a controversial catch by Peter Handscomb. Virat looked unhappy with the decision and tensions flared-up when Australia started batting in their second innings. Both the captains, Virat Kohli and Tim Paine, kept exchanging words, which carried on until stumps. The hosts finished 175 runs ahead on day three. Virat was heard yelling at Paine, "If he messes it up, it's 2-0." The chats were picked up by the microphone after he and his teammates made a loud caught-behind appeal for Paine in the final over of the day. The Australian captain did not hold himself back and replied: "You've got to bat first, **** head". Watch the video: KOHLI : If u mess it up it's 2-0 PAINE : You Got to Bat First D***Head Verbals from Skippers😂😂#AUSvIND #AUSvsIND pic.twitter.com/Bjtx6VTT2B — karthick shivaraman (@ISkarthi) December 16, 2018 × The hosts star-spinner Nathan Lyon, however, played down the incident. "I think Tim just asked him where he was going for dinner that's all. I've played enough cricket against Virat to know what he's like, and I'm not worried about what he's doing or what India's doing," said Lyon. "Virat is a great player, he plays on emotion, we all know that, and to be honest I'm not too concerned how Virat reacts or the way he conducts himself. I'm just worried about what we can control in the Australian dressing room and I thought as bowlers we came out today and performed pretty well," he said. Lyon said: "The wicket seems like it's starting to play a few more little tricks. We were expecting the cracks to play a little bit more, but with that rain yesterday it probably softened our ball up quite a fair bit. I know as bowlers the ball in cricket terms felt like it had no air left in it, so it lost a little bit of zip off the wicket. "But we were pretty happy with the way we bowled and we know that come the second dig we can bowl much better than that. So we can take a few lessons off that first innings," he added.

Watch: Stump mic reveals ugly on-pitch chats between Kohli and Paine in Perth Test

<p>Australia need five wickets in the second test to secure a series-levelling victory with India's daunting run chase on a menacing pitch teetering at stumps on day four on Monday.</p>

<p>Chasing 287 runs after bowling out Australia’s second innings for 243, India reached the close at 112 for five with Hanuma Vihari 24 not out and Rishabh Pant unbeaten on nine.</p>

<p>Struggling on the Perth Stadium pitch marked by widening cracks, India made a poor start losing the key wickets of Lokesh Rahul for a fourth-ball duck and Cheteshwar Pujara, India’s first test hero in Adelaide, for four.</p>

<p>India’s faint hopes rested on captain Virat Kohli who counter-attacked with several flowing drives in reminiscent fashion to his masterful first innings of 123.</p>

<p>Kohli combined with opener Murali Vijay to stabilise India before he edged a straight Nathan Lyon delivery to Usman Khawaja at slip for 17, sparking scenes of jubilation from the Australian players.</p>

<p>The off-spinner claimed the India talisman for a record seventh time, the most by a bowler, and in his next over bowled Vijay for 20 off an inside edge.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Lyon and Hazlewood strike in the final session of day four to put Australia in a strong position to level the series in Perth. India are 112/5 at stumps, needing 175 runs on the final day to claim victory.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> scorecard ➡️ <a href="https://t.co/viG01Bpvlc">https://t.co/viG01Bpvlc</a> <a href="https://t.co/edmRkR9Mqr">pic.twitter.com/edmRkR9Mqr</a></p>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1074604124208009216?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Lyon continued his stranglehold over India, continually troubling the batsmen by targeting the expansive rough patches.</p>

<p>Ajinkya Rahane played his strokes and combined well with Vihari before the India vice-captain fell just before stumps, slashing a Josh Hazlewood delivery straight to point for 30.</p>

<p>The bowling onslaught has Australia on the cusp of snapping a barren six-test run without a win and providing skipper Tim Paine with his first triumph as captain.</p>

<p>Australia's bowlers regained firm control of the match after their batsmen had crumbled against quick Mohammed Shami in the middle session.</p>

<p>After a wicketless morning session, India came alive through blistering short-pitched bowling from Shami, who made the ball steeple off the deteriorating wicket to finish with a career-best 6-56.</p>

<p>Australia spectacularly lost four wickets for six runs starting with Paine (37) falling to a vicious short ball from Shami, which spat off the pitch hitting the glove and ballooned to slip.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Australia pick two quick wickets, and India are 15/2 at Tea. Starc &amp; Hazlewood pick one wicket each. Kohli 0*, Vijay 6* <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/eKdq5ELmIw">pic.twitter.com/eKdq5ELmIw</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1074561545605017600?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Shami was on a hat-trick when he had Aaron Finch caught behind down the leg-side in a fleeting resumption for the opener.</p>

<p>Finch retired hurt on day three on 25 after being struck on the glove by a searing short ball from Shami but X-Rays cleared him of serious injury to his right index finger.</p>

<p>Shami was denied the hat-trick but soon claimed his fifth wicket with another menacing bouncer that caught Khawaja's glove to be caught behind for 72.</p>

<p>Australia's lead was 250 before Hazlewood (17 not out) and Mitchell Starc (14) added an invaluable 36 runs for the last wicket.</p>

<p>The pyrotechnics contrasted a sedate morning session dominated by Australia, who grabbed control of a fluctuating match with Khawaja and Paine batting through to lunch.</p>


Australia need five wickets in the second test to secure a series-levelling victory with India's daunting run chase on a menacing pitch teetering at stumps on day four on Monday.

Australia need five wickets in the second test to secure a series-levelling victory with India's daunting run chase on a menacing pitch teetering at stumps on day four on Monday. Chasing 287 runs after bowling out Australia’s second innings for 243, India reached the close at 112 for five with Hanuma Vihari 24 not out and Rishabh Pant unbeaten on nine. Struggling on the Perth Stadium pitch marked by widening cracks, India made a poor start losing the key wickets of Lokesh Rahul for a fourth-ball duck and Cheteshwar Pujara, India’s first test hero in Adelaide, for four. India’s faint hopes rested on captain Virat Kohli who counter-attacked with several flowing drives in reminiscent fashion to his masterful first innings of 123. Kohli combined with opener Murali Vijay to stabilise India before he edged a straight Nathan Lyon delivery to Usman Khawaja at slip for 17, sparking scenes of jubilation from the Australian players. The off-spinner claimed the India talisman for a record seventh time, the most by a bowler, and in his next over bowled Vijay for 20 off an inside edge. Lyon and Hazlewood strike in the final session of day four to put Australia in a strong position to level the series in Perth. India are 112/5 at stumps, needing 175 runs on the final day to claim victory.#AUSvIND scorecard ➡️ https://t.co/viG01Bpvlc pic.twitter.com/edmRkR9Mqr — ICC (@ICC) December 17, 2018 × Lyon continued his stranglehold over India, continually troubling the batsmen by targeting the expansive rough patches. Ajinkya Rahane played his strokes and combined well with Vihari before the India vice-captain fell just before stumps, slashing a Josh Hazlewood delivery straight to point for 30. The bowling onslaught has Australia on the cusp of snapping a barren six-test run without a win and providing skipper Tim Paine with his first triumph as captain. Australia's bowlers regained firm control of the match after their batsmen had crumbled against quick Mohammed Shami in the middle session. After a wicketless morning session, India came alive through blistering short-pitched bowling from Shami, who made the ball steeple off the deteriorating wicket to finish with a career-best 6-56. Australia spectacularly lost four wickets for six runs starting with Paine (37) falling to a vicious short ball from Shami, which spat off the pitch hitting the glove and ballooned to slip. Australia pick two quick wickets, and India are 15/2 at Tea. Starc & Hazlewood pick one wicket each. Kohli 0*, Vijay 6* #TeamIndia #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/eKdq5ELmIw — BCCI (@BCCI) December 17, 2018 × Shami was on a hat-trick when he had Aaron Finch caught behind down the leg-side in a fleeting resumption for the opener. Finch retired hurt on day three on 25 after being struck on the glove by a searing short ball from Shami but X-Rays cleared him of serious injury to his right index finger. Shami was denied the hat-trick but soon claimed his fifth wicket with another menacing bouncer that caught Khawaja's glove to be caught behind for 72. Australia's lead was 250 before Hazlewood (17 not out) and Mitchell Starc (14) added an invaluable 36 runs for the last wicket. The pyrotechnics contrasted a sedate morning session dominated by Australia, who grabbed control of a fluctuating match with Khawaja and Paine batting through to lunch.

India vs Australia, 2nd Test, Day 4: Australia five wickets away from winning

<p>India captain Virat Kohli slammed his <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-virat-kohli-slams-25th-test-century-in-perth-test-184408">63 international century</a> playing against Australia in the second Test of a four-match series.</p>

<p>Master batsman Kohli brought up his 25th Test century, smashing a four off Mitchell Starc in Perth.</p>

<p>His brilliant innings of 123 came to an end when he edged Pat Cummins to a forward-diving Peter Handscomb at second slip.</p>

<p>While the debate over the accuracy of the catch is still on.</p>

<p>There were some confusion and the on-field umpire referred the decision to the third umpire.</p>

<p>The third umpire&nbsp;signalled it out after reviewing it from all the possible angles.</p>

<p>He hit 11 fours in the battling 214-ball knock after coming to the crease with his team in trouble after losing two early wickets.</p>

<p><em>Watch the video here:</em></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Virat Kohli was given OUT but was it a clean catch? 🤔🤔🤔<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FoxCricket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FoxCricket</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/SAIv1kkX6N">pic.twitter.com/SAIv1kkX6N</a></p>
— Fox Cricket (@FoxCricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/FoxCricket/status/1074160545631096832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">It's not out <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> <a href="https://t.co/MxpwwDcXXg">pic.twitter.com/MxpwwDcXXg</a></p>
— Prem chand 🇮🇳💪 (@gprema21) <a href="https://twitter.com/gprema21/status/1074160492157886464?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>However, Virat was not happy with umpire's decision and reacted aggressively.</p>

<p>In the first innings,&nbsp;India were bowled out for 283 after lunch as Australia gained a valuable 43-run first innings lead.</p>

<p>Kohli top-scored and spinner Nathan Lyon took 5-67 for Australia on the grassy Perth Stadium wicket.</p>


India captain Virat Kohli slammed his 63 international century playing against Australia in the second Test of a four-match series. Master batsman Kohli brought up his 25th Test century, smashing a four off Mitchell Starc in Perth.

India captain Virat Kohli slammed his 63 international century playing against Australia in the second Test of a four-match series. Master batsman Kohli brought up his 25th Test century, smashing a four off Mitchell Starc in Perth. His brilliant innings of 123 came to an end when he edged Pat Cummins to a forward-diving Peter Handscomb at second slip. While the debate over the accuracy of the catch is still on. There were some confusion and the on-field umpire referred the decision to the third umpire. The third umpire signalled it out after reviewing it from all the possible angles. He hit 11 fours in the battling 214-ball knock after coming to the crease with his team in trouble after losing two early wickets. Watch the video here: Virat Kohli was given OUT but was it a clean catch? 🤔🤔🤔#FoxCricket #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/SAIv1kkX6N — Fox Cricket (@FoxCricket) December 16, 2018 × It's not out @imVkohli pic.twitter.com/MxpwwDcXXg — Prem chand 🇮🇳💪 (@gprema21) December 16, 2018 × However, Virat was not happy with umpire's decision and reacted aggressively. In the first innings, India were bowled out for 283 after lunch as Australia gained a valuable 43-run first innings lead. Kohli top-scored and spinner Nathan Lyon took 5-67 for Australia on the grassy Perth Stadium wicket.

Watch: Out or not out? Debate over Virat Kohli's wicket is on

<p>India captain <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=virat+kohli">Virat Kohli</a> completed his 25th Test century after smashing a four off Mitchell Starc to reach triple figures on day three of the second Test in Perth.</p>

<p>Playing in his 75th Test, the Indian run-machine did it in style with a classic straight drive against Australia in the second Test of a four-match series at Perth Stadium on Sunday.</p>

<p>He hit 11 fours in the battling 214-ball knock after coming to the crease with his team in trouble after losing two early wickets.</p>

<p>It was his sixth ton in Australia, putting him in the elite company of Sachin Tendulkar.</p>

<p>Kohli has scored five, which is the highest Test centuries so far in the year 2018. He smashed a total of 11 international centuries in this year.</p>

<p>He also became the first ever batsman to record&nbsp;11 tons&nbsp;in two calendar years.</p>

<p>With&nbsp;total 63 international centuries and is only behind Ricky Ponting (71) and Tendulkar (100).</p>

<p>When Virat completed his ton, India were at 207 for the loss of four wickets in the ongoing match.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Captain Kohli notches his 25th Test ton. One of the finest from King Kohli 👑😎👌🏻 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/LisPQ6pobc">pic.twitter.com/LisPQ6pobc</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1074140446379565056?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Earlier, In reply to Australia's first innings of 326, India fought back on the green-tinged Perth Stadium pitch to reach stumps at 172 for three with Kohli 82 not out and his deputy Ajinkya Rahane unbeaten on 51.</p>

<p>"We feel confident when he is batting," said India quick Ishant Sharma of Kohli. "We finished the day in a strong position. Hopefully, tomorrow we will win the first session."</p>

<p>The home side bowled accurately but the much-hyped pitch, marked with widening cracks, settled down late in the day.</p>


India captain Virat Kohli completed his 25th Test century after smashing a four off Mitchell Starc to reach triple figures on day three of the second Test in Perth.

India captain Virat Kohli completed his 25th Test century after smashing a four off Mitchell Starc to reach triple figures on day three of the second Test in Perth. Playing in his 75th Test, the Indian run-machine did it in style with a classic straight drive against Australia in the second Test of a four-match series at Perth Stadium on Sunday. He hit 11 fours in the battling 214-ball knock after coming to the crease with his team in trouble after losing two early wickets. It was his sixth ton in Australia, putting him in the elite company of Sachin Tendulkar. Kohli has scored five, which is the highest Test centuries so far in the year 2018. He smashed a total of 11 international centuries in this year. He also became the first ever batsman to record 11 tons in two calendar years. With total 63 international centuries and is only behind Ricky Ponting (71) and Tendulkar (100). When Virat completed his ton, India were at 207 for the loss of four wickets in the ongoing match. Captain Kohli notches his 25th Test ton. One of the finest from King Kohli 👑😎👌🏻 #TeamIndia #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/LisPQ6pobc — BCCI (@BCCI) December 16, 2018 × Earlier, In reply to Australia's first innings of 326, India fought back on the green-tinged Perth Stadium pitch to reach stumps at 172 for three with Kohli 82 not out and his deputy Ajinkya Rahane unbeaten on 51. "We feel confident when he is batting," said India quick Ishant Sharma of Kohli. "We finished the day in a strong position. Hopefully, tomorrow we will win the first session." The home side bowled accurately but the much-hyped pitch, marked with widening cracks, settled down late in the day.

India vs Australia: Virat Kohli slams 25th Test century in Perth Test

<p>Australia battled through an onslaught from India's fiery fast bowlers on the third day of the second Test, building an ominous 175-run lead with six wickets in hand on a menacing Perth Stadium pitch that is expected to deteriorate further.</p>

<p>The hosts reached stumps at 132 for four in their second innings on Sunday with Usman Khawaja 41 not out and captain Tim Paine unbeaten on eight.</p>

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-2018-19-schedule-teams-time-and-venue-177740">Australia</a>, desperate to level the series after narrowly losing the opener in Adelaide, could be without the services of opener Aaron Finch, who retired hurt on the stroke of tea with a possible fractured right index finger.</p>

<p>Under overcast skies, Australia's batsmen faced torrid bowling from India's fired-up quicks with Finch, who was unbeaten on 25, forced off after being hit by a searing delivery from Mohammed Shami.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Another fascinating day of Test cricket! Australia close day three in Perth on 132/4 in their second innings, with a lead of 175 runs over India after the visitors were dismissed for 283. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> scorecard ➡️ <a href="https://t.co/viG01Bpvlc">https://t.co/viG01Bpvlc</a> <a href="https://t.co/F3zt6p9jXV">pic.twitter.com/F3zt6p9jXV</a></p>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1074242503300313089?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Marcus Harris, Finch's opening partner, had earlier been hit on the helmet attempting to evade a sharp bouncer from paceman Jasprit Bumrah, who bowled superbly in favourable conditions.</p>

<p>A bewildered Harris fell after the tea break clean bowled by Bumrah for 20 after not offering a shot, and locally-bred Shaun Marsh was caught behind for five while rashly attempting a pull shot off Shami.</p>

<p>Australia's inexperienced batting-order struggled under pressure with Peter Handscomb making an unconvincing 13 before being trapped leg before after shuffling across his stumps to Ishant Sharma, who bowled without luck initially.</p>

<p>Travis Head was dismissed before the close for 19 after needlessly guiding a wide Shami delivery to deep third man, in a mirror-image of his first innings dismissal.</p>

<p>Khawaja, Australia's most accomplished batsman, survived several nerve-jangling moments to compile his highest score in the series.</p>

<p>Australia's impulsive batting almost squandered their advantage after bowling out India for 283 to gain a handy first innings lead of 43 runs, despite a brilliant century from India captain Virat Kohli.</p>

<p>An enthralling morning session belonged to the peerless Kohli, whose 123 came to an end at the stroke of lunch when he edged Pat Cummins to a forward-diving Handscomb at second slip.</p>

<p>Whether Handscomb got his fingers under the ball will be a matter of debate for days to come but the onfield official's soft signal was out and the third umpire did not reverse the decision on review.</p>

<p>Kohli had reached his 25th century in style with a flowing off-drive to the boundary and then placed his helmet on the ground, pointed to his bat and made a yapping gesture with his gloved hand.</p>

<p>It was his sixth century in Australia, which matches the tally of the great Sachin Tendulkar, and ended a drought against Australia with just 83 runs in his past seven Test innings against them.</p>

<p>Kohli showed no lasting ill-effects from an earlier injury scare when he was struck on the forearm by a searing Mitchell Starc bouncer and required treatment.</p>

<p>Spinner Nathan Lyon targeted the pitch's expansive rough patches and cleaned up the tail to finish with 5-67.</p>


Australia battled through an onslaught from India's fiery fast bowlers on the third day of the second Test, building an ominous 175-run lead with six wickets in hand on a menacing Perth Stadium pitch that is expected to deteriorate further.

Australia battled through an onslaught from India's fiery fast bowlers on the third day of the second Test, building an ominous 175-run lead with six wickets in hand on a menacing Perth Stadium pitch that is expected to deteriorate further. The hosts reached stumps at 132 for four in their second innings on Sunday with Usman Khawaja 41 not out and captain Tim Paine unbeaten on eight. Australia, desperate to level the series after narrowly losing the opener in Adelaide, could be without the services of opener Aaron Finch, who retired hurt on the stroke of tea with a possible fractured right index finger. Under overcast skies, Australia's batsmen faced torrid bowling from India's fired-up quicks with Finch, who was unbeaten on 25, forced off after being hit by a searing delivery from Mohammed Shami. Another fascinating day of Test cricket! Australia close day three in Perth on 132/4 in their second innings, with a lead of 175 runs over India after the visitors were dismissed for 283. #AUSvIND scorecard ➡️ https://t.co/viG01Bpvlc pic.twitter.com/F3zt6p9jXV — ICC (@ICC) December 16, 2018 × Marcus Harris, Finch's opening partner, had earlier been hit on the helmet attempting to evade a sharp bouncer from paceman Jasprit Bumrah, who bowled superbly in favourable conditions. A bewildered Harris fell after the tea break clean bowled by Bumrah for 20 after not offering a shot, and locally-bred Shaun Marsh was caught behind for five while rashly attempting a pull shot off Shami. Australia's inexperienced batting-order struggled under pressure with Peter Handscomb making an unconvincing 13 before being trapped leg before after shuffling across his stumps to Ishant Sharma, who bowled without luck initially. Travis Head was dismissed before the close for 19 after needlessly guiding a wide Shami delivery to deep third man, in a mirror-image of his first innings dismissal. Khawaja, Australia's most accomplished batsman, survived several nerve-jangling moments to compile his highest score in the series. Australia's impulsive batting almost squandered their advantage after bowling out India for 283 to gain a handy first innings lead of 43 runs, despite a brilliant century from India captain Virat Kohli. An enthralling morning session belonged to the peerless Kohli, whose 123 came to an end at the stroke of lunch when he edged Pat Cummins to a forward-diving Handscomb at second slip. Whether Handscomb got his fingers under the ball will be a matter of debate for days to come but the onfield official's soft signal was out and the third umpire did not reverse the decision on review. Kohli had reached his 25th century in style with a flowing off-drive to the boundary and then placed his helmet on the ground, pointed to his bat and made a yapping gesture with his gloved hand. It was his sixth century in Australia, which matches the tally of the great Sachin Tendulkar, and ended a drought against Australia with just 83 runs in his past seven Test innings against them. Kohli showed no lasting ill-effects from an earlier injury scare when he was struck on the forearm by a searing Mitchell Starc bouncer and required treatment. Spinner Nathan Lyon targeted the pitch's expansive rough patches and cleaned up the tail to finish with 5-67.

INDvsAUS, 2nd Test, Day 3: Australia build vital lead against India in Perth

<p>India and Australia will play their second Test match of a four-match series at the brand new in Perth's Optus Stadium, which has a drop-in pitch.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Perth Stadium, which has a sitting capacity of 60,000, has succeeded the WACA as the city's premier venue for internationals.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong> <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-2nd-test-day-1-india-vs-australia-183864">All actions from India vs Australia second Test</a></p>

<p>A drop-in pitch is a pitch that is prepared away from the ground or venue in which it is used, and "dropped" into place for a match to take place.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This allows multi-purpose venues to host other sports and events with more versatility than a dedicated cricket ground would allow.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pitch's curator Brett Sipthorpe is trying to produce the 'bounciest' pitch he can and that could very well work in India's favour.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Weighing around 30 tons, the depth of a drop-in pitch is 20-cm. It is maintained and prepared in a steel frame.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Perth - We are here! 😎👍🏻 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/AHeGmgKVVQ">pic.twitter.com/AHeGmgKVVQ</a></p>
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<p>Not everyone is a drop-in fan. Purists warn such pitches -- which some grounds now favour so they can host multiple sports -- remove the characteristics of different fields that made matches more unpredictable, and therefore exciting.</p>

<p>"With the drop-in pitch, there's more of the sameness about things from city to city, and place to place," Australian cricket historian Bernard Whimpress told AFP.</p>

<p>"Which makes me sort of think, why don't they just forget about the drop-in pitch and put in artificial turf or something."</p>


India and Australia will play their second Test match of a four-match series at the brand new in Perth's Optus Stadium, which has a drop-in pitch. Perth Stadium, which has a sitting capacity of 60,000, has succeeded the WACA as the city's premier venue for internationals.

India and Australia will play their second Test match of a four-match series at the brand new in Perth's Optus Stadium, which has a drop-in pitch. Perth Stadium, which has a sitting capacity of 60,000, has succeeded the WACA as the city's premier venue for internationals. Also Read: All actions from India vs Australia second Test A drop-in pitch is a pitch that is prepared away from the ground or venue in which it is used, and "dropped" into place for a match to take place. This allows multi-purpose venues to host other sports and events with more versatility than a dedicated cricket ground would allow. Pitch's curator Brett Sipthorpe is trying to produce the 'bounciest' pitch he can and that could very well work in India's favour. Weighing around 30 tons, the depth of a drop-in pitch is 20-cm. It is maintained and prepared in a steel frame. Perth - We are here! 😎👍🏻 #TeamIndia #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/AHeGmgKVVQ — BCCI (@BCCI) December 13, 2018 × Not everyone is a drop-in fan. Purists warn such pitches -- which some grounds now favour so they can host multiple sports -- remove the characteristics of different fields that made matches more unpredictable, and therefore exciting. "With the drop-in pitch, there's more of the sameness about things from city to city, and place to place," Australian cricket historian Bernard Whimpress told AFP. "Which makes me sort of think, why don't they just forget about the drop-in pitch and put in artificial turf or something."

India vs Australia, 2nd Test: All you need to know about Perth's drop-in pitch

<p>Indian cricket captain Virat Kohli has said his team is "more excited than nervous" by the lively&nbsp;Perth pitch&nbsp;as the team&nbsp;held its final training sessions on Thursday before the second Test <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-2018-19-schedule-teams-time-and-venue-177740">against Australia</a>.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We certainly get more excited than nervous looking at lively pitches now because we understand that we do have a bowling attack which can, you know, bowl the opposition out. As much as they are convinced about their attack," Reuters quoted Kohli as saying at the pre-match press conference.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-second-test-tim-paine-fit-aussies-unchanged-for-perth-test-183713">Tim Paine fit, Aussies unchanged for Perth Test</a></p>

<p>Kohli told the media that the days when the Indians walked out on to a fiery track with fear were long gone.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It's a very exciting phase to be in but something that we need to build on. As I said, we cannot be complacent or satisfied with one win. We have to keep repeating good things to be able to win series."&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">An exciting contest awaits at Perth with a lot on offer for the quicks 🔥🔥 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/k3Y7CQ8DQF">pic.twitter.com/k3Y7CQ8DQF</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1073098519928401920?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Kohli said he thought both sides had an equal chance of winning the Test, as Indian batsman Rohit Sharma and spinner Ravichandran Ashwin were ruled out of the second Test against Australia by injury.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are definitely confident of the percentage of chances that we have and we want to build on that."&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Perth - We are here! 😎👍🏻 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/AHeGmgKVVQ">pic.twitter.com/AHeGmgKVVQ</a></p>
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<p>"Obviously, Australia is going to be a strong team at their home conditions and on a wicket like Perth which probably offers you more than other pitches in Australia but as I said, we have an equal chance in the game."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Australia have kept their team unchanged, with Australia team Captain Tim Paine declaring himself fit and ready. Paine suffered a finger injury in the series-opening loss to India when he was struck on the glove by a short Mohammed Shami ball on the final day of play in Adelaide.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from Reuters)</em></p>


Indian cricket captain Virat Kohli has said his team is "more excited than nervous" by the lively Perth pitch as the team held its final training sessions on Thursday before the second Test against Australia.

Indian cricket captain Virat Kohli has said his team is "more excited than nervous" by the lively Perth pitch as the team held its final training sessions on Thursday before the second Test against Australia. "We certainly get more excited than nervous looking at lively pitches now because we understand that we do have a bowling attack which can, you know, bowl the opposition out. As much as they are convinced about their attack," Reuters quoted Kohli as saying at the pre-match press conference. Also Read: Tim Paine fit, Aussies unchanged for Perth Test Kohli told the media that the days when the Indians walked out on to a fiery track with fear were long gone. "It's a very exciting phase to be in but something that we need to build on. As I said, we cannot be complacent or satisfied with one win. We have to keep repeating good things to be able to win series." An exciting contest awaits at Perth with a lot on offer for the quicks 🔥🔥 #TeamIndia #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/k3Y7CQ8DQF — BCCI (@BCCI) December 13, 2018 × Kohli said he thought both sides had an equal chance of winning the Test, as Indian batsman Rohit Sharma and spinner Ravichandran Ashwin were ruled out of the second Test against Australia by injury. "We are definitely confident of the percentage of chances that we have and we want to build on that." Perth - We are here! 😎👍🏻 #TeamIndia #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/AHeGmgKVVQ — BCCI (@BCCI) December 13, 2018 × "Obviously, Australia is going to be a strong team at their home conditions and on a wicket like Perth which probably offers you more than other pitches in Australia but as I said, we have an equal chance in the game." Australia have kept their team unchanged, with Australia team Captain Tim Paine declaring himself fit and ready. Paine suffered a finger injury in the series-opening loss to India when he was struck on the glove by a short Mohammed Shami ball on the final day of play in Adelaide. (With inputs from Reuters)

Time when India approached lively pitches with fear gone: Kohli before Perth Test

<p>Australia skipper Tim Paine declared himself fit and ready to go for the second Test against India on Thursday, with the hosts naming an unchanged side for the Perth Stadium clash.</p>

<p>Paine suffered a finger injury in the series-opening loss to India in Adelaide but the 34-year-old wicketkeeper confirmed he would line up in an unchanged batting order when the match starts on Friday.</p>

<p>"Yeah, no I'm fine. I've got a few niggles everywhere but I'm not alone there, I don't think, at my age. Finger is fine, yeah," Paine told a news conference.</p>

<p>Paceman Mitchell Starc retains his place in the side despite what was perceived to be a sub-par performance in Adelaide, and will be looking for a strong performance in conditions which are expected to favour his skills at the new Perth Stadium.</p>

<p>"Starcy's been good for us. I thought the criticism he got this week's been pretty unfair to be honest," Paine said of the left-arm quick, who took five for 103 in the first Test.</p>

<p>"Barring two or three overs where he got his radar wrong, I think he's bowled pretty well. We know his best is the best so we're pretty pumped to have him in our team."</p>

<p>Aaron Finch also keeps his place at the top of the order despite mustering only 11 runs in his two innings in the first of four Tests in the series.</p>

<p>"He just needs that one big score at Test level to give him that confidence he has at international level in T20s and ODIs," Paine added.</p>

<p>Australia, still without Steve Smith and David Warner after they were banned for their part in March's ball-tampering scandal, have never lost a Test series at home to India.</p>

<p>Australia team: Aaron Finch, Marcus Harris, Usman Khawaja, Shaun Marsh, Peter Handscomb, Travis Head, Tim Paine (captain), Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Nathan Lyon.</p>


Australia skipper Tim Paine declared himself fit and ready to go for the second Test against India on Thursday, with the hosts naming an unchanged side for the Perth Stadium clash.

Australia skipper Tim Paine declared himself fit and ready to go for the second Test against India on Thursday, with the hosts naming an unchanged side for the Perth Stadium clash. Paine suffered a finger injury in the series-opening loss to India in Adelaide but the 34-year-old wicketkeeper confirmed he would line up in an unchanged batting order when the match starts on Friday. "Yeah, no I'm fine. I've got a few niggles everywhere but I'm not alone there, I don't think, at my age. Finger is fine, yeah," Paine told a news conference. Paceman Mitchell Starc retains his place in the side despite what was perceived to be a sub-par performance in Adelaide, and will be looking for a strong performance in conditions which are expected to favour his skills at the new Perth Stadium. "Starcy's been good for us. I thought the criticism he got this week's been pretty unfair to be honest," Paine said of the left-arm quick, who took five for 103 in the first Test. "Barring two or three overs where he got his radar wrong, I think he's bowled pretty well. We know his best is the best so we're pretty pumped to have him in our team." Aaron Finch also keeps his place at the top of the order despite mustering only 11 runs in his two innings in the first of four Tests in the series. "He just needs that one big score at Test level to give him that confidence he has at international level in T20s and ODIs," Paine added. Australia, still without Steve Smith and David Warner after they were banned for their part in March's ball-tampering scandal, have never lost a Test series at home to India. Australia team: Aaron Finch, Marcus Harris, Usman Khawaja, Shaun Marsh, Peter Handscomb, Travis Head, Tim Paine (captain), Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Nathan Lyon.

India vs Australia, second Test: Tim Paine fit, Aussies unchanged for Perth Test

<p>Rishabh Pant Monday said Monday he was "very happy" to have helped India <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-beat-australia-by-31-runs-to-clinch-first-test-182794">win the first Test in Adelaide</a> after equalling the world record of 11 catches in a match.</p>

<p>He equalled the world record of most catches in a Test by a wicketkeeper, snaring 11 in the first match against Australia while breaking the Indian mark.</p>

<p>The 21-year-old, playing in only his sixth Test, matched the record held by England's Jack Russell and South Africa's AB de Villiers&nbsp;when he caught Australia's Mitchell Starc off the bowling of Mohammed Shami on Monday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He eclipsed the India record of 10 catches in a game by Wriddhiman Saha, as the visitors won the opening game by 31 runs to go 1-0 up in the four-match series.</p>

<p>Pant equalled the world record after taking Mitchell Starc's catch off Mohammed Shami's ball in the second innings at the Adelaide Oval.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It was really nervous as they were coming close, but we did well," he told Indian media after eclipsing the India record of 10 catches in a game by Wriddhiman Saha and helping his side to a tense 31-run victory on the fifth day.</p>

<p>"I'm very happy to contribute to the team, first time getting to this milestone. I always enjoy troubling batsmen.</p>

<p>"I love it when they concentrate on me and not on the bowlers."</p>

<p>Russell achieved the feat against South Africa in 1995 and De Villiers matched the achievement against Pakistan in 2013.</p>


Rishabh Pant Monday said Monday he was "very happy" to have helped India win the first Test in Adelaide after equalling the world record of 11 catches in a match.

Rishabh Pant Monday said Monday he was "very happy" to have helped India win the first Test in Adelaide after equalling the world record of 11 catches in a match. He equalled the world record of most catches in a Test by a wicketkeeper, snaring 11 in the first match against Australia while breaking the Indian mark. The 21-year-old, playing in only his sixth Test, matched the record held by England's Jack Russell and South Africa's AB de Villiers when he caught Australia's Mitchell Starc off the bowling of Mohammed Shami on Monday. He eclipsed the India record of 10 catches in a game by Wriddhiman Saha, as the visitors won the opening game by 31 runs to go 1-0 up in the four-match series. Pant equalled the world record after taking Mitchell Starc's catch off Mohammed Shami's ball in the second innings at the Adelaide Oval. "It was really nervous as they were coming close, but we did well," he told Indian media after eclipsing the India record of 10 catches in a game by Wriddhiman Saha and helping his side to a tense 31-run victory on the fifth day. "I'm very happy to contribute to the team, first time getting to this milestone. I always enjoy troubling batsmen. "I love it when they concentrate on me and not on the bowlers." Russell achieved the feat against South Africa in 1995 and De Villiers matched the achievement against Pakistan in 2013.

Rishabh Pant 'happy' to help India win with world record 11 catches

IND vs AUS: Cheteshwar Pujara shines as Kohli & team wins 1st Test match

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