Australia lost opener Aaron Finch before reaching 28 at tea on the fourth day as they chase a stiff victory target of 323 against India in the first Test on Sunday.&nbsp;

Spinner Ravichandran Ashwin removed opening batsman Aaron Finch in the last over before tea.

Mohammed Shami sent back Marcus Harris at a score of 26 and struck again to dismiss Peter Handscomb.

Handscomb failed to judge the speed of the ball and gave away an easy catch in the safe hands of Pujara.

After Finch, Ashwin got a crucial wicket of Usman Khwaja.

India were earlier all-out for 307 in their second innings with Cheteshwar Pujara (71) and Ajinkya Rahane (70) hitting half-centuries. Nathan Lyon 6 for 122 was the most successful bowler for Australia.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Ravichandran Ashwin provides India with their first breakthrough, sending Aaron Finch back for 11 right before tea on Day 4. 
 
Australia are 28/1 and they need 295 more to win.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> LIVE 👇<a href="https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc">https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc</a> <a href="https://t.co/d2mZaMGwhy">pic.twitter.com/d2mZaMGwhy</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1071626652965318657?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 9, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Earlier, spinner Nathan Lyon made the difference&nbsp;on the&nbsp;fourth day&nbsp;but still,&nbsp;Australia have a mountain to climb for an unlikely win.

Lyon was the pick of the bowlers, taking 6 for 122 off 42 overs. It was his 13th five-wicket haul in Tests.

Three late wickets in the space of seven balls got the crowd on their feet and gave Australia hope of victory, but they will need to make history to win.

The only successful fourth innings Test run chase of more than 300 at Adelaide came in 1902, when the hosts made 315 to beat England.

The biggest on the ground in modern times was 239 in 1982, when the West Indies managed the feat.

A sliver of hope will come from Western Australia in a domestic match last month hitting 313 to beat South Australia here with Shaun Marsh -- who is playing in the Test -- scoring 163 not out.

Australia lost opener Aaron Finch before reaching 28 at tea on the fourth day as they chase a stiff victory target of 323 against India in the first Test on Sunday.

Australia lost opener Aaron Finch before reaching 28 at tea on the fourth day as they chase a stiff victory target of 323 against India in the first Test on Sunday. Spinner Ravichandran Ashwin removed opening batsman Aaron Finch in the last over before tea. Mohammed Shami sent back Marcus Harris at a score of 26 and struck again to dismiss Peter Handscomb. Handscomb failed to judge the speed of the ball and gave away an easy catch in the safe hands of Pujara. After Finch, Ashwin got a crucial wicket of Usman Khwaja. India were earlier all-out for 307 in their second innings with Cheteshwar Pujara (71) and Ajinkya Rahane (70) hitting half-centuries. Nathan Lyon 6 for 122 was the most successful bowler for Australia. Ravichandran Ashwin provides India with their first breakthrough, sending Aaron Finch back for 11 right before tea on Day 4. Australia are 28/1 and they need 295 more to win.#AUSvIND LIVE 👇https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc pic.twitter.com/d2mZaMGwhy — ICC (@ICC) December 9, 2018 × Earlier, spinner Nathan Lyon made the difference on the fourth day but still, Australia have a mountain to climb for an unlikely win. Lyon was the pick of the bowlers, taking 6 for 122 off 42 overs. It was his 13th five-wicket haul in Tests. Three late wickets in the space of seven balls got the crowd on their feet and gave Australia hope of victory, but they will need to make history to win. The only successful fourth innings Test run chase of more than 300 at Adelaide came in 1902, when the hosts made 315 to beat England. The biggest on the ground in modern times was 239 in 1982, when the West Indies managed the feat. A sliver of hope will come from Western Australia in a domestic match last month hitting 313 to beat South Australia here with Shaun Marsh -- who is playing in the Test -- scoring 163 not out.

INDvsAUS, 1st Test, Day 4:Australia 235, 84/4 after 37 overs

Australians players wore black bands while taking the field on day four of the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/indvsaus-1st-test-day-4-india-set-australia-323-for-victory-in-first-test-182587">Adelaide Test against India</a> on Sunday.

The players wore black bands to give tribute to Colin Ernest John Guest, the former Australia pacer, who passed away on Saturday, December 8 at the age of 81.

Colin Guest was a former Australian cricketer who played in the Third Test at Sydney in the 1962–63 Ashes series.

A fast-medium bowler, Guest played first-class cricket for Victoria from 1958-59 to 1963-64 and for Western Australia in 1966-67.

Guest, who was cap 222 for Australia, played one Test, against England in Sydney in 1963. He went wicketless then, but was a successful bowler in the first-class level, where he had 115 wickets from 36 matches.

Born in Victoria, he spent most of his career playing for them, before moving to Western Australia in his final season in 1966-67. He went on to coach Western Australia as well.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
The Australians are wearing a black band on Day 4 of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> Test to mourn the demise of former pacer Colin Guest. 
 
Read 👇<a href="https://t.co/PRkKbahM2Q">https://t.co/PRkKbahM2Q</a> <a href="https://t.co/PS0UQj30cB">pic.twitter.com/PS0UQj30cB</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1071642709801209856?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 9, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"Colin made a significant contribution to our domestic game, both as a player and a coach. His patience was rewarded after debuting for Australia in the Ashes in 1963," said Kevin Roberts, Cricket Australia CEO. "Colin was selected after he took his best match figures (7-95 and 10-134) for Victoria against Western Australia in Melbourne and replaced Ken Mackay in the Test side.

"Colin is to be commended for his coaching influence in Western Australia. He had a particular passion and drive for inspiring juniors in the game.

"On behalf of the Board and staff at Cricket Australia, we sincerely acknowledge Colin for his contribution to Australia’s favourite sport. He will be sadly missed, and our thoughts are with his family, friends and all those who crossed paths with him in the cricketing community at this time."

Australians players wore black bands while taking the field on day four of the Adelaide Test against India on Sunday. The players wore black bands to give tribute to Colin Ernest John Guest, the former Australia pacer, who passed away on Saturday, December 8 at the age of 81.

Australians players wore black bands while taking the field on day four of the Adelaide Test against India on Sunday. The players wore black bands to give tribute to Colin Ernest John Guest, the former Australia pacer, who passed away on Saturday, December 8 at the age of 81. Colin Guest was a former Australian cricketer who played in the Third Test at Sydney in the 1962–63 Ashes series. A fast-medium bowler, Guest played first-class cricket for Victoria from 1958-59 to 1963-64 and for Western Australia in 1966-67. Guest, who was cap 222 for Australia, played one Test, against England in Sydney in 1963. He went wicketless then, but was a successful bowler in the first-class level, where he had 115 wickets from 36 matches. Born in Victoria, he spent most of his career playing for them, before moving to Western Australia in his final season in 1966-67. He went on to coach Western Australia as well. The Australians are wearing a black band on Day 4 of the #AUSvIND Test to mourn the demise of former pacer Colin Guest. Read 👇https://t.co/PRkKbahM2Q pic.twitter.com/PS0UQj30cB — ICC (@ICC) December 9, 2018 × "Colin made a significant contribution to our domestic game, both as a player and a coach. His patience was rewarded after debuting for Australia in the Ashes in 1963," said Kevin Roberts, Cricket Australia CEO. "Colin was selected after he took his best match figures (7-95 and 10-134) for Victoria against Western Australia in Melbourne and replaced Ken Mackay in the Test side. "Colin is to be commended for his coaching influence in Western Australia. He had a particular passion and drive for inspiring juniors in the game. "On behalf of the Board and staff at Cricket Australia, we sincerely acknowledge Colin for his contribution to Australia’s favourite sport. He will be sadly missed, and our thoughts are with his family, friends and all those who crossed paths with him in the cricketing community at this time."

India vs Australia: Here is why Australian players are wearing black armbands

With Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane at the crease, the fourth day of opening Test against Australia has begun in Adelaide. P

Pujara, who rescued India's first innings with a sparkling 123, resumed the fourth day's game, with number five Ajinkya Rahane on one run.

The temperature is 22-degree Celsius and the sun is out, it is expected that there will not be any delay due to rain.

Earlier in the game, Cheteshwar Pujara and Virat Kohli thwarted Australia in a diligent partnership to push India to a position of strength and a 166-run lead at the close of day three.

Brought together before tea with India vulnerable at 76 for two, the pair stood firm through the best part of a session before spinner Nathan Lyon snared Kohli for 34 to end their 71-run stand at Adelaide Oval.

Lyon was denied Pujara's wicket twice by the Decision Review System, so his Kohli breakthrough was a relief after a long afternoon's toil.

Deceiving the Indian talisman with flight and dip, he caught Kohli's inside edge and the nick popped up to Aaron Finch at short leg.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
"Everyone knows he struggles a little bit against moving red ball, and we have a series here and an Ashes series not too far away. The ball's going to move around a lot when we're over in England." - Ricky Ponting on Aaron Finch. 
 
MORE FROM PONTING👇<a href="https://t.co/v2oaPzSrS9">https://t.co/v2oaPzSrS9</a> <a href="https://t.co/StGHqZUZRf">pic.twitter.com/StGHqZUZRf</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1071362508060061697?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Mitchell Starc lead today's bowling attack.

With Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane at the crease, the fourth day of opening Test against Australia has begun in Adelaide. P Pujara, who rescued India's first innings with a sparkling 123, resumed the fourth day's game, with number five Ajinkya Rahane on one run.

With Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane at the crease, the fourth day of opening Test against Australia has begun in Adelaide. P Pujara, who rescued India's first innings with a sparkling 123, resumed the fourth day's game, with number five Ajinkya Rahane on one run. The temperature is 22-degree Celsius and the sun is out, it is expected that there will not be any delay due to rain. Earlier in the game, Cheteshwar Pujara and Virat Kohli thwarted Australia in a diligent partnership to push India to a position of strength and a 166-run lead at the close of day three. Brought together before tea with India vulnerable at 76 for two, the pair stood firm through the best part of a session before spinner Nathan Lyon snared Kohli for 34 to end their 71-run stand at Adelaide Oval. Lyon was denied Pujara's wicket twice by the Decision Review System, so his Kohli breakthrough was a relief after a long afternoon's toil. Deceiving the Indian talisman with flight and dip, he caught Kohli's inside edge and the nick popped up to Aaron Finch at short leg. "Everyone knows he struggles a little bit against moving red ball, and we have a series here and an Ashes series not too far away. The ball's going to move around a lot when we're over in England." - Ricky Ponting on Aaron Finch. MORE FROM PONTING👇https://t.co/v2oaPzSrS9 pic.twitter.com/StGHqZUZRf — ICC (@ICC) December 8, 2018 × Mitchell Starc lead today's bowling attack.

INDvsAUS, 1st Test, Day 4: Pujara, Rahane resume game

Cheteshwar Pujara and Virat Kohli thwarted Australia in a diligent partnership to push India to a position of strength and a 166-run lead at the close of day three of the first test on Saturday.

Brought together before tea with India vulnerable at 76 for two, the pair stood firm through the best part of a session before spinner Nathan Lyon snared Kohli for 34 to end their 71-run stand at Adelaide Oval.

Josh Hazlewood had Lokesh Rahul caught behind for 44 after pace spearhead Starc dismissed Murali Vijay for 18 to end a 63-run opening stand at Adelaide Oval, after the home side were bowled out for 235 in the rain-hit first session.

Virat Kohli lost his wicket after scoring 34 runs playing at a strike rate of 32,69.

Cheteshwar Pujara, who slammed a century in the first innings, will resume the game tomorrow along with number five batsman Ajinkya Rahane.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
India finish the third day of the opening Test on 151/3, a lead of 166 runs, in Adelaide. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> SCORECARD ⬇️<a href="https://t.co/sCMk42uzZC">https://t.co/sCMk42uzZC</a> <a href="https://t.co/zmV1EiXx6L">pic.twitter.com/zmV1EiXx6L</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1071320860399558656?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Protecting India's first innings total of 250, Kohli's bowlers did well to carve out an initial 15-run lead, getting through Australia's final three wickets for the cost of 44 runs after the home side resumed on 191 for seven following a rain-delayed start.

India seamer Mohammed Shami was on a hat-trick after claiming the final two wickets of batsman Travis Head (72) and number 11 Josh Hazlewood (0) in successive balls.

Starc was the first wicket to fall, caught behind off seamer Jasprit Bumrah, who finished with 3-47.

Nathan Lyon was left 24 not out, having played a handy cameo with Head.

Dismissed for two in the first innings to extend a lean run of scores, Rahul came out with positive intent and saw off Starc and Hazlewood's opening spell before taking to Pat Cummins.

He smashed a drive for six over deep cover off Australia's first-change bowler and another square drive for four in the same over.

The recalled Vijay was never quite so settled, however, and he was out for 18 chasing a wider delivery that was caught by Peter Handscomb at second slip.

Pujara, who scored a sparkling 123 to rescue India in their first innings total of 250, was given out after an appeal for caught behind off Lyon but over-turned the decision on review.

Australia's disappointment was short-lived, however, as Rahul threw away his wicket moments later with an ill-advised swipe at a Hazlewood which served only to send a nick flying through to wicketkeeper-captain Tim Paine.

Cheteshwar Pujara and Virat Kohli thwarted Australia in a diligent partnership to push India to a position of strength and a 166-run lead at the close of day three of the first test on Saturday.

Cheteshwar Pujara and Virat Kohli thwarted Australia in a diligent partnership to push India to a position of strength and a 166-run lead at the close of day three of the first test on Saturday. Brought together before tea with India vulnerable at 76 for two, the pair stood firm through the best part of a session before spinner Nathan Lyon snared Kohli for 34 to end their 71-run stand at Adelaide Oval. Josh Hazlewood had Lokesh Rahul caught behind for 44 after pace spearhead Starc dismissed Murali Vijay for 18 to end a 63-run opening stand at Adelaide Oval, after the home side were bowled out for 235 in the rain-hit first session. Virat Kohli lost his wicket after scoring 34 runs playing at a strike rate of 32,69. Cheteshwar Pujara, who slammed a century in the first innings, will resume the game tomorrow along with number five batsman Ajinkya Rahane. India finish the third day of the opening Test on 151/3, a lead of 166 runs, in Adelaide. #AUSvIND SCORECARD ⬇️https://t.co/sCMk42uzZC pic.twitter.com/zmV1EiXx6L — ICC (@ICC) December 8, 2018 × Protecting India's first innings total of 250, Kohli's bowlers did well to carve out an initial 15-run lead, getting through Australia's final three wickets for the cost of 44 runs after the home side resumed on 191 for seven following a rain-delayed start. India seamer Mohammed Shami was on a hat-trick after claiming the final two wickets of batsman Travis Head (72) and number 11 Josh Hazlewood (0) in successive balls. Starc was the first wicket to fall, caught behind off seamer Jasprit Bumrah, who finished with 3-47. Nathan Lyon was left 24 not out, having played a handy cameo with Head. Dismissed for two in the first innings to extend a lean run of scores, Rahul came out with positive intent and saw off Starc and Hazlewood's opening spell before taking to Pat Cummins. He smashed a drive for six over deep cover off Australia's first-change bowler and another square drive for four in the same over. The recalled Vijay was never quite so settled, however, and he was out for 18 chasing a wider delivery that was caught by Peter Handscomb at second slip. Pujara, who scored a sparkling 123 to rescue India in their first innings total of 250, was given out after an appeal for caught behind off Lyon but over-turned the decision on review. Australia's disappointment was short-lived, however, as Rahul threw away his wicket moments later with an ill-advised swipe at a Hazlewood which served only to send a nick flying through to wicketkeeper-captain Tim Paine.

INDvsAUS, 1st Test, Day 3: India take stranglehold in Adelaide Test

Australia were 170-6&nbsp;after 75&nbsp;overs in reply to India's India's 250 in the second day of the opening Test on Friday in Adelaide.

Travis Head scored a half-century to salvage Australian innings, he is currently batting with&nbsp;Pat Cummins.

Aussies started their innings with a shock as Aaron Finch lost his wicket in the first over after he was spectacularly bowled without scoring on only the third ball he faced.

A beautiful delivery from Ishant Sharma took out his middle and off stumps after getting an inside edge as Finch attempted a drive.

His credentials as an opener again called into question after such poor show.

In muggy and overcast conditions, a slimmed-down Usman Khawaja, returning after knee surgery, joined debutant Marcus Harris to show Finch how it should be done.

He compiled a patient 21, putting aside disrupted preparations after the shock arrest of his brother this week for allegedly framing a love-rival with a fake terror plot.

Harris, who was picked on the back of being the second highest run-scorer in Sheffield Shield this season, looked in good nick and unruffled by the occasion, hitting three fours in a solid 26.

Australia were&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/indvsaus-1st-test-day-2-australia-lose-quick-wickets-57-2-at-lunch-182054">57-2 at lunch</a>&nbsp;with loss of two wickets but just after coming from the break, Shaun Marsh lost his wicket after scoring just two runs.

Usman Khawaja, who was set after facing 125 balls, was out spun by Ashwin.

Peter Handscomb, who was batting at 34, lost his wicket to Jasprit Bumrah.

Skipper and wicketkeeper-batsman Tim Paine was sent back by Ishant Sharma at a score of five.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Half-century for Travis Head! 
 
Brings up the mark with a single to loud applause in Adelaide. It's a much-needed knock for Australia. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> LIVE 
➡️ <a href="https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc">https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc</a> <a href="https://t.co/PIvQwf7zOJ">pic.twitter.com/PIvQwf7zOJ</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1070927893201645568?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 7, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Earlier,&nbsp;India finished the opening day at 250-9, on the back of a battling 123 from Cheteshwar Pujara, and they failed to add to the total.

When they resumed, tailender Mohammed Shami was out for six on the first delivery of the day, caught behind by Tim Paine off Josh Hazlewood, leaving Jasprit Bumrah unbeaten on 0.

Hazlewood finished with 3-52. Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon all took two wickets each.

Australia were 170-6 after 75 overs in reply to India's India's 250 in the second day of the opening Test on Friday in Adelaide. Travis Head scored a half-century to salvage Australian innings, he is currently batting with Pat Cummins.

Australia were 170-6 after 75 overs in reply to India's India's 250 in the second day of the opening Test on Friday in Adelaide. Travis Head scored a half-century to salvage Australian innings, he is currently batting with Pat Cummins. Aussies started their innings with a shock as Aaron Finch lost his wicket in the first over after he was spectacularly bowled without scoring on only the third ball he faced. A beautiful delivery from Ishant Sharma took out his middle and off stumps after getting an inside edge as Finch attempted a drive. His credentials as an opener again called into question after such poor show. In muggy and overcast conditions, a slimmed-down Usman Khawaja, returning after knee surgery, joined debutant Marcus Harris to show Finch how it should be done. He compiled a patient 21, putting aside disrupted preparations after the shock arrest of his brother this week for allegedly framing a love-rival with a fake terror plot. Harris, who was picked on the back of being the second highest run-scorer in Sheffield Shield this season, looked in good nick and unruffled by the occasion, hitting three fours in a solid 26. Australia were 57-2 at lunch with loss of two wickets but just after coming from the break, Shaun Marsh lost his wicket after scoring just two runs. Usman Khawaja, who was set after facing 125 balls, was out spun by Ashwin. Peter Handscomb, who was batting at 34, lost his wicket to Jasprit Bumrah. Skipper and wicketkeeper-batsman Tim Paine was sent back by Ishant Sharma at a score of five. Half-century for Travis Head! Brings up the mark with a single to loud applause in Adelaide. It's a much-needed knock for Australia. #AUSvIND LIVE ➡️ https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc pic.twitter.com/PIvQwf7zOJ — ICC (@ICC) December 7, 2018 × Earlier, India finished the opening day at 250-9, on the back of a battling 123 from Cheteshwar Pujara, and they failed to add to the total. When they resumed, tailender Mohammed Shami was out for six on the first delivery of the day, caught behind by Tim Paine off Josh Hazlewood, leaving Jasprit Bumrah unbeaten on 0. Hazlewood finished with 3-52. Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon all took two wickets each.

INDvsAUS, 1st Test, Day 2: Australia at 170-6 after 75 overs

Australia were 121-5 after 60 overs in reply to India's India's 250 in the second day of the opening Test on Friday in Adelaide.

Aussies started their innings with a shock as Aaron Finch lost his wicket in the first over after he was spectacularly bowled without scoring on only the third ball he faced.

A beautiful delivery from Ishant Sharma took out his middle and off stumps after getting an inside edge as Finch attempted a drive.

His credentials as an opener again called into question after such poor show.

In muggy and overcast conditions, a slimmed-down Usman Khawaja, returning after knee surgery, joined debutant Marcus Harris to show Finch how it should be done.

He compiled a patient 21, putting aside disrupted preparations after the shock arrest of his brother this week for allegedly framing a love-rival with a fake terror plot.

Harris, who was picked on the back of being the second highest run-scorer in Sheffield Shield this season, looked in good nick and unruffled by the occasion, hitting three fours in a solid 26.

Australia were&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/indvsaus-1st-test-day-2-australia-lose-quick-wickets-57-2-at-lunch-182054">57-2 at lunch</a>&nbsp;with loss of two wickets but just after coming from the break, Shaun Marsh lost his wicket after scoring just two runs.

Usman Khawaja, who was set after facing 125 balls, was out spun by Ashwin.

Peter Handscomb, who was batting at 34, lost his wicket to Jasprit Bumrah.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
India in control! 
 
Bumrah draws the edge from Handscomb, and Australia are five down for 120. 
 
Captain Paine is in. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> LIVE 
➡️ <a href="https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc">https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc</a> <a href="https://t.co/KVR0W7w5te">pic.twitter.com/KVR0W7w5te</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1070911490553798657?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 7, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Earlier,&nbsp;India finished the opening day at 250-9, on the back of a battling 123 from Cheteshwar Pujara, and they failed to add to the total.

When they resumed, tailender Mohammed Shami was out for six on the first delivery of the day, caught behind by Tim Paine off Josh Hazlewood, leaving Jasprit Bumrah unbeaten on 0.

Hazlewood finished with 3-52. Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon all took two wickets each.

Australia were 121-5 after 60 overs in reply to India's India's 250 in the second day of the opening Test on Friday in Adelaide. Aussies started their innings with a shock as Aaron Finch lost his wicket in the first over after he was spectacularly bowled without scoring on only the third ball he faced.

Australia were 121-5 after 60 overs in reply to India's India's 250 in the second day of the opening Test on Friday in Adelaide. Aussies started their innings with a shock as Aaron Finch lost his wicket in the first over after he was spectacularly bowled without scoring on only the third ball he faced. A beautiful delivery from Ishant Sharma took out his middle and off stumps after getting an inside edge as Finch attempted a drive. His credentials as an opener again called into question after such poor show. In muggy and overcast conditions, a slimmed-down Usman Khawaja, returning after knee surgery, joined debutant Marcus Harris to show Finch how it should be done. He compiled a patient 21, putting aside disrupted preparations after the shock arrest of his brother this week for allegedly framing a love-rival with a fake terror plot. Harris, who was picked on the back of being the second highest run-scorer in Sheffield Shield this season, looked in good nick and unruffled by the occasion, hitting three fours in a solid 26. Australia were 57-2 at lunch with loss of two wickets but just after coming from the break, Shaun Marsh lost his wicket after scoring just two runs. Usman Khawaja, who was set after facing 125 balls, was out spun by Ashwin. Peter Handscomb, who was batting at 34, lost his wicket to Jasprit Bumrah. India in control! Bumrah draws the edge from Handscomb, and Australia are five down for 120. Captain Paine is in. #AUSvIND LIVE ➡️ https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc pic.twitter.com/KVR0W7w5te — ICC (@ICC) December 7, 2018 × Earlier, India finished the opening day at 250-9, on the back of a battling 123 from Cheteshwar Pujara, and they failed to add to the total. When they resumed, tailender Mohammed Shami was out for six on the first delivery of the day, caught behind by Tim Paine off Josh Hazlewood, leaving Jasprit Bumrah unbeaten on 0. Hazlewood finished with 3-52. Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon all took two wickets each.

INDvsAUS, 1st Test, Day 2: Australia at 121-5 after 60

India's spinner <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=ashwin">Ravichandran Ashwin</a> struck thrice as Australia were 99-4 after 47 overs in reply to India's India's 250 in the second day of opnening Test on Friday in Adelaide.

Aussies started their innings with a shock as Aaron Finch lost his wicket in the first over after he was spectacularly bowled without scoring on only the third ball he faced.

A beautiful delivery from Ishant Sharma took out his middle and off stumps after getting an inside edge as Finch attempted a drive.

His credentials as an opener again called into question after such poor show.

In muggy and overcast conditions, a slimmed-down Usman Khawaja, returning after knee surgery, joined debutant Marcus Harris to show Finch how it should be done.

He compiled a patient 21, putting aside disrupted preparations after the shock arrest of his brother this week for allegedly framing a love-rival with a fake terror plot.

Harris, who was picked on the back of being the second highest run-scorer in Sheffield Shield this season, looked in good nick and unruffled by the occasion, hitting three fours in a solid 26.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Khawaja falls, huge wicket for India. 
 
It's Ashwin again. He has the left-hand bat caught behind, and he's on a roll. 
 
Australia are 87/4, and need to rebuild. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> LIVE 
➡️ <a href="https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc">https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc</a> <a href="https://t.co/TsIacZW0TG">pic.twitter.com/TsIacZW0TG</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1070885598402105344?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 7, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Australia were <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/indvsaus-1st-test-day-2-australia-lose-quick-wickets-57-2-at-lunch-182054">57-2 at lunch</a> with loss of two wickets but just after coming from the break, Shaun Marsh lost his wicket after scoring just two runs.

Usman Khawaja, who was set after facing 125 balls, was out spun by Ashwin.

Earlier,&nbsp;India finished the opening day at 250-9, on the back of a battling 123 from Cheteshwar Pujara, and they failed to add to the total.

When they resumed, tailender Mohammed Shami was out for six on the first delivery of the day, caught behind by Tim Paine off Josh Hazlewood, leaving Jasprit Bumrah unbeaten on 0.

Hazlewood finished with 3-52. Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon all took two wickets each.

India's spinner Ravichandran Ashwin struck thrice as Australia were 99-4 after 47 overs in reply to India's India's 250 in the second day of opnening Test on Friday in Adelaide.

India's spinner Ravichandran Ashwin struck thrice as Australia were 99-4 after 47 overs in reply to India's India's 250 in the second day of opnening Test on Friday in Adelaide. Aussies started their innings with a shock as Aaron Finch lost his wicket in the first over after he was spectacularly bowled without scoring on only the third ball he faced. A beautiful delivery from Ishant Sharma took out his middle and off stumps after getting an inside edge as Finch attempted a drive. His credentials as an opener again called into question after such poor show. In muggy and overcast conditions, a slimmed-down Usman Khawaja, returning after knee surgery, joined debutant Marcus Harris to show Finch how it should be done. He compiled a patient 21, putting aside disrupted preparations after the shock arrest of his brother this week for allegedly framing a love-rival with a fake terror plot. Harris, who was picked on the back of being the second highest run-scorer in Sheffield Shield this season, looked in good nick and unruffled by the occasion, hitting three fours in a solid 26. Khawaja falls, huge wicket for India. It's Ashwin again. He has the left-hand bat caught behind, and he's on a roll. Australia are 87/4, and need to rebuild. #AUSvIND LIVE ➡️ https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc pic.twitter.com/TsIacZW0TG — ICC (@ICC) December 7, 2018 × Australia were 57-2 at lunch with loss of two wickets but just after coming from the break, Shaun Marsh lost his wicket after scoring just two runs. Usman Khawaja, who was set after facing 125 balls, was out spun by Ashwin. Earlier, India finished the opening day at 250-9, on the back of a battling 123 from Cheteshwar Pujara, and they failed to add to the total. When they resumed, tailender Mohammed Shami was out for six on the first delivery of the day, caught behind by Tim Paine off Josh Hazlewood, leaving Jasprit Bumrah unbeaten on 0. Hazlewood finished with 3-52. Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon all took two wickets each.

INDvsAUS, 1st Test, Day 2: Ashwin strikes thrice as Australia at 104-4 after 50 overs

Australia lost two wickets in the morning session Friday in reply to India's 250, leaving the first Test evenly poised with the experienced Usman Khawaja and Shaun Marsh at the crease.

Just after coming from lunch,&nbsp;Shaun Marsh lost his wicket after scoring just two runs.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/indvsaus-1st-test-day-1-cheteshwar-pujara-rescues-india-in-adelaide-oval-181878">India finished the opening day at 250-9</a>, on the back of a battling 123 from Cheteshwar Pujara, and they failed to add to the total.

When they resumed, tailender Mohammed Shami was out for six on the first delivery of the day, caught behind by Tim Paine off Josh Hazlewood, leaving Jasprit Bumrah unbeaten on 0.

Hazlewood finished with 3-52. Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon all took two wickets each.

In reply, Australia were 57-2 at lunch with Khawaja not out 21 and Marsh unbeaten on one.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
🍴 
 
Patience has been key in the morning session of day two in Adelaide. India have sent back the openers, but Usman Khawaja is holding steady. Australia go to lunch on 57/2. 
 
FOLLOW <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> LIVE 
➡️ <a href="https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc">https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc</a> <a href="https://t.co/b42Ms9a5te">pic.twitter.com/b42Ms9a5te</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1070863323296600064?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 7, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The home team got off to a horror start with Aaron Finch's credentials as an opener again called into question after he was spectacularly bowled without scoring on only the third ball he faced.

A beautiful delivery from Ishant Sharma took out his middle and off stumps after getting an inside edge as Finch attempted a drive.

In muggy and overcast conditions, a slimmed-down Usman Khawaja, returning after knee surgery, joined debutant Marcus Harris to show Finch how it should be done.

He compiled a patient 21, putting aside disrupted preparations after the shock arrest of his brother this week for allegedly framing a love-rival with a fake terror plot.

Harris, who was picked on the back of being the second highest run-scorer in Sheffield Shield this season, looked in good nick and unruffled by the occasion, hitting three fours in a solid 26.

But he was undone by a drifting ball from spinner Ravi Ashwin, getting an edge to Murali Vijay at silly mid-off, ending a 45-run partnership with Khawaja.

Paceman Shami went off the field in the run-up to lunch, apparently due to a shoulder niggle, but soon returned, although he did not bowl again.

Australia lost two wickets in the morning session Friday in reply to India's 250, leaving the first Test evenly poised with the experienced Usman Khawaja and Shaun Marsh at the crease.

Australia lost two wickets in the morning session Friday in reply to India's 250, leaving the first Test evenly poised with the experienced Usman Khawaja and Shaun Marsh at the crease. Just after coming from lunch, Shaun Marsh lost his wicket after scoring just two runs. India finished the opening day at 250-9, on the back of a battling 123 from Cheteshwar Pujara, and they failed to add to the total. When they resumed, tailender Mohammed Shami was out for six on the first delivery of the day, caught behind by Tim Paine off Josh Hazlewood, leaving Jasprit Bumrah unbeaten on 0. Hazlewood finished with 3-52. Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon all took two wickets each. In reply, Australia were 57-2 at lunch with Khawaja not out 21 and Marsh unbeaten on one. 🍴 Patience has been key in the morning session of day two in Adelaide. India have sent back the openers, but Usman Khawaja is holding steady. Australia go to lunch on 57/2. FOLLOW #AUSvIND LIVE ➡️ https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc pic.twitter.com/b42Ms9a5te — ICC (@ICC) December 7, 2018 × The home team got off to a horror start with Aaron Finch's credentials as an opener again called into question after he was spectacularly bowled without scoring on only the third ball he faced. A beautiful delivery from Ishant Sharma took out his middle and off stumps after getting an inside edge as Finch attempted a drive. In muggy and overcast conditions, a slimmed-down Usman Khawaja, returning after knee surgery, joined debutant Marcus Harris to show Finch how it should be done. He compiled a patient 21, putting aside disrupted preparations after the shock arrest of his brother this week for allegedly framing a love-rival with a fake terror plot. Harris, who was picked on the back of being the second highest run-scorer in Sheffield Shield this season, looked in good nick and unruffled by the occasion, hitting three fours in a solid 26. But he was undone by a drifting ball from spinner Ravi Ashwin, getting an edge to Murali Vijay at silly mid-off, ending a 45-run partnership with Khawaja. Paceman Shami went off the field in the run-up to lunch, apparently due to a shoulder niggle, but soon returned, although he did not bowl again.

INDvsAUS, 1st Test, Day 2: Australia lose quick wickets, 65-3 after 32 overs

India vs Australia, 1st Test: How spin & pace exposed Tim Paine's team

India's captain Virat Kohli has "already left a legacy" with his batting, in all the three formats of cricket, said former India Test great VVS Laxman and added that Indian players are far more experienced and talented than the Australian team as Virat's side is currently on a tour Down Under.

India will play four Tests, three One-Day Internationals (ODIs) and three Twenty20 International (T20I) matches.&nbsp;

The T20 series ended in a draw and the Test series got underway on December 6, in which India will look to create history as they have never won a Test series on Australia soil.

Laxman, who his remembered for his several match-winning and match-saving innings, in an interview to WION's sports editor Digvijay Singh Deo shared his thoughts on Virat's leadership and team's performance.

"He [Virat] has become a role model. I think this is a great opportunity for Virat Kohli the captain to leave a legacy behind. Because he has got a very formidable team playing against an unsettled Australian team and if you compare player to player, I think Indian players are far more experienced and talented than the Australian team," Laxman said.

The former middle-order great also praised Virat's fitness, saying, "He is very disciplined about his fitness, about his diet."&nbsp;

Virat Kohli sticks to a high-protein diet, minus any junk food and practice weight training to gain lean muscle mass and maintain low body fat levels.

One can see the intensity with which Kohli prepares, and how meaningful those practice sessions are, and because of that he goes out and consistently delivers for the team, he said.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/1OfMMTgvtGA" width="560"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

On being asked about the team's comparison with the former teams, Laxman replied that he doesn't like comparisons. He said, "I don't like to compare teams and players from different generations."

"I have always been of this opinion because the challenges, the opportunities, the conditions, the situations were totally different. I think it is not right or fair to compare teams from different generations," he said.

Laxman has an aggregate of 8781 runs in his Test career playing a total of 225 innings. His performance against Australia is worth mentioning as he scored 2434 runs in 29 matches with a strike rate of 54.33, including six centuries and 12 half-centuries.

Laxman also expressed his views on Virat's resemblance with former captain Sourav Ganguly. He said that Virat is "very positive".

"If you talk about his first Test as captain, there were two choices - play for a draw or go out and play positively, with an aggressive approach and look for a win.&nbsp;

"He chose to play with an aggressive approach," appreciated Laxman.

"The team didn't win that match but that made a statement - that was a very very bold statement that 'I'm the captain, I want team India to play in this fashion'.&nbsp;

For the first Test of the Australian tour in December 2014, Dhoni was not part of the Indian team at Adelaide due to an injury, and Kohli took the reins as Test captain for the first time.&nbsp;

Kohli scored 115 in India's first innings, becoming the fourth Indian to score a hundred on Test captaincy debut.

In the second innings, India needed 364, Kohli came in to bat when the Indian innings was reduced to 57/2.

He put on 185 runs for the third wicket with Murali Vijay, however, India was bowled out for 315 with Kohli's 141 off 175 balls being the top score.

Laxman said, "I think it all boils down to what the leader is showcasing. I think he is very aggressive, but the important thing is that the aggression is not artificial."

"That is something which is very important. Everyone should be as natural as possible and they will be successful. If you are artificial about it, it will eventually show," Laxman concluded.

India's captain Virat Kohli has "already left a legacy" with his batting, in all the three formats of cricket, said former India Test great VVS Laxman and added that Indian players are far more experienced and talented than the Australian team as Virat's side is currently on a tour Down Under.

India's captain Virat Kohli has "already left a legacy" with his batting, in all the three formats of cricket, said former India Test great VVS Laxman and added that Indian players are far more experienced and talented than the Australian team as Virat's side is currently on a tour Down Under. India will play four Tests, three One-Day Internationals (ODIs) and three Twenty20 International (T20I) matches. The T20 series ended in a draw and the Test series got underway on December 6, in which India will look to create history as they have never won a Test series on Australia soil. Laxman, who his remembered for his several match-winning and match-saving innings, in an interview to WION's sports editor Digvijay Singh Deo shared his thoughts on Virat's leadership and team's performance. "He [Virat] has become a role model. I think this is a great opportunity for Virat Kohli the captain to leave a legacy behind. Because he has got a very formidable team playing against an unsettled Australian team and if you compare player to player, I think Indian players are far more experienced and talented than the Australian team," Laxman said. The former middle-order great also praised Virat's fitness, saying, "He is very disciplined about his fitness, about his diet." Virat Kohli sticks to a high-protein diet, minus any junk food and practice weight training to gain lean muscle mass and maintain low body fat levels. One can see the intensity with which Kohli prepares, and how meaningful those practice sessions are, and because of that he goes out and consistently delivers for the team, he said. × On being asked about the team's comparison with the former teams, Laxman replied that he doesn't like comparisons. He said, "I don't like to compare teams and players from different generations." "I have always been of this opinion because the challenges, the opportunities, the conditions, the situations were totally different. I think it is not right or fair to compare teams from different generations," he said. Laxman has an aggregate of 8781 runs in his Test career playing a total of 225 innings. His performance against Australia is worth mentioning as he scored 2434 runs in 29 matches with a strike rate of 54.33, including six centuries and 12 half-centuries. Laxman also expressed his views on Virat's resemblance with former captain Sourav Ganguly. He said that Virat is "very positive". "If you talk about his first Test as captain, there were two choices - play for a draw or go out and play positively, with an aggressive approach and look for a win. "He chose to play with an aggressive approach," appreciated Laxman. "The team didn't win that match but that made a statement - that was a very very bold statement that 'I'm the captain, I want team India to play in this fashion'. For the first Test of the Australian tour in December 2014, Dhoni was not part of the Indian team at Adelaide due to an injury, and Kohli took the reins as Test captain for the first time. Kohli scored 115 in India's first innings, becoming the fourth Indian to score a hundred on Test captaincy debut. In the second innings, India needed 364, Kohli came in to bat when the Indian innings was reduced to 57/2. He put on 185 runs for the third wicket with Murali Vijay, however, India was bowled out for 315 with Kohli's 141 off 175 balls being the top score. Laxman said, "I think it all boils down to what the leader is showcasing. I think he is very aggressive, but the important thing is that the aggression is not artificial." "That is something which is very important. Everyone should be as natural as possible and they will be successful. If you are artificial about it, it will eventually show," Laxman concluded.

Virat Kohli created 'legacy' with his batting, VVS Laxman tells WION

Travis Head scored an unbeaten half-century on his home debut to give Australia hope of reeling in India's first innings lead at the close of day two of the first test on Friday.

Australia were 191 for seven, with Head 61 not out and tailender Mitchell Starc on eight, still 59 runs short of India's modest total of 250 after another baking hot day at Adelaide Oval.

"It's nice to do a good job for the team," South Australia captain Head said after scoring his second fifty in his third test.

"We're hanging in there, India bowled exceptionally well and put us under pressure.

"Fantastic little fight-back at the end there and sets up a really important first hour in the morning. If we can get close it's game on."

Tim Paine's side resumed on 117 for four after tea, with Peter Handscomb and Head tasked with salvaging the innings after spinner Ravichandran Ashwin tore through the top order with three wickets.

Handscomb promptly threw away his wicket for 34 trying to fend Jasprit Bumrah to third man with an angled bat, a thick edge pouched by Rishabh Pant.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Stumps on Day 2! 
 
Australia head back in at 191/7, with Travis Head's 61* keeping them in the fight.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> SCORECARD 
➡️ <a href="https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc">https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc</a> <a href="https://t.co/HylQSYoLCC">pic.twitter.com/HylQSYoLCC</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1070941986067267584?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 7, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Australia were soon reduced to 127 for six when captain Tim Paine edged a leaden-footed drive behind off Ishant Sharma to be out for five after a tortured 20-ball innings.

The home side looked primed for a collapse but Pat Cummins and Head combined for a rare bout of resistance.

After a grinding afternoon at the crease, Head tried to lift the run-rate against an ageing ball, smashing Mohammed Shami with a couple of fine drives to the fence.

He cut a Murali Vijay delivery through the covers for a single to raise warm applause from the sun-baked crowd.

He and Cummins carved out Australia's first 50-run partnership but their stand was broken as soon as the second new ball was taken.

Cummins declined to play a shot against a searing Bumrah delivery and was given out lbw. He then squandered a review attempting to overturn the decision despite the ball thudding into his rear pad, directly in front.

Starc and Head negotiated the nervous final overs to give Australia hope of mustering enough runs on day three to remain competitive.

India lost their final wicket on the first ball of the morning but Australia's batsmen were equally quick to squander the advantage.

Opener Aaron Finch was bowled for a third-ball duck by Ishant Sharma, while debutant Marcus Harris was caught for 26, with Ashwin breaking a 45-run partnership with Usman Khawaja.

The crafty spinner ratcheted up the pressure with two wickets after lunch, continuing Shaun Marsh's dreadful run of form in tests by enticing the number four to chop on his stumps for two, then captured the key wicket of Khawaja for 28.

The recalled Handscomb made a better fist of partnering Khawaja, but Ashwin returned to break the partnership with a pearl of a delivery that flicked Khawaja's glove on the way through to the keeper.

Travis Head scored an unbeaten half-century on his home debut to give Australia hope of reeling in India's first innings lead at the close of day two of the first test on Friday.

Travis Head scored an unbeaten half-century on his home debut to give Australia hope of reeling in India's first innings lead at the close of day two of the first test on Friday. Australia were 191 for seven, with Head 61 not out and tailender Mitchell Starc on eight, still 59 runs short of India's modest total of 250 after another baking hot day at Adelaide Oval. "It's nice to do a good job for the team," South Australia captain Head said after scoring his second fifty in his third test. "We're hanging in there, India bowled exceptionally well and put us under pressure. "Fantastic little fight-back at the end there and sets up a really important first hour in the morning. If we can get close it's game on." Tim Paine's side resumed on 117 for four after tea, with Peter Handscomb and Head tasked with salvaging the innings after spinner Ravichandran Ashwin tore through the top order with three wickets. Handscomb promptly threw away his wicket for 34 trying to fend Jasprit Bumrah to third man with an angled bat, a thick edge pouched by Rishabh Pant. Stumps on Day 2! Australia head back in at 191/7, with Travis Head's 61* keeping them in the fight.#AUSvIND SCORECARD ➡️ https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc pic.twitter.com/HylQSYoLCC — ICC (@ICC) December 7, 2018 × Australia were soon reduced to 127 for six when captain Tim Paine edged a leaden-footed drive behind off Ishant Sharma to be out for five after a tortured 20-ball innings. The home side looked primed for a collapse but Pat Cummins and Head combined for a rare bout of resistance. After a grinding afternoon at the crease, Head tried to lift the run-rate against an ageing ball, smashing Mohammed Shami with a couple of fine drives to the fence. He cut a Murali Vijay delivery through the covers for a single to raise warm applause from the sun-baked crowd. He and Cummins carved out Australia's first 50-run partnership but their stand was broken as soon as the second new ball was taken. Cummins declined to play a shot against a searing Bumrah delivery and was given out lbw. He then squandered a review attempting to overturn the decision despite the ball thudding into his rear pad, directly in front. Starc and Head negotiated the nervous final overs to give Australia hope of mustering enough runs on day three to remain competitive. India lost their final wicket on the first ball of the morning but Australia's batsmen were equally quick to squander the advantage. Opener Aaron Finch was bowled for a third-ball duck by Ishant Sharma, while debutant Marcus Harris was caught for 26, with Ashwin breaking a 45-run partnership with Usman Khawaja. The crafty spinner ratcheted up the pressure with two wickets after lunch, continuing Shaun Marsh's dreadful run of form in tests by enticing the number four to chop on his stumps for two, then captured the key wicket of Khawaja for 28. The recalled Handscomb made a better fist of partnering Khawaja, but Ashwin returned to break the partnership with a pearl of a delivery that flicked Khawaja's glove on the way through to the keeper.

INDvsAUS, 1st Test, Day 2: Travis Head gives Australia hope in Adelaide

Cheteshwar Pujara scored a half-century to salvage Indian innings in the opening Test on Thursday in Adelaide as the visitors were at stumbled at 214-8 after 83 overs.

Pujara played a responsible innings and was unbeaten at 73 after facing 194 balls.

He found a determined&nbsp;ally in&nbsp;R Ashwin, who lost his wicket after scoring a crucial 25 runs for his team.

After playing several defensive shots, Ishant Sharma returned to the pavilion&nbsp;as India's last wicket after scoring four runs.

For Australia, spinner Nathan Lyon struck twice to expose India's tail as the Virat-led staggered to 143 for six at tea.

Having won the toss and elected to bat, India resumed <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/indvsaus-1st-test-day-1-india-129-6-after-50-overs-181803">after lunch on 56</a> for four after a disastrous morning of batsmen falling to Australia's pacemen with a slew of poor shots.

Pujara and Rohit Sharma, recalled at the expense of Hanuma Vihari, were pinned down after the break by disciplined bowling and the latter tried to break the shackles by attacking Lyon.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Cummins snares Ashwin! 
 
He walks back for a 76-ball 25, and Australia have the breakthrough. Ashwin's 62-run stand with Pujara is by far India's best on the day. 
 
Can they rebuild? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> LIVE ⬇️<a href="https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc">https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc</a> <a href="https://t.co/QxBVyIYP3G">pic.twitter.com/QxBVyIYP3G</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1070566129435844609?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 6, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

He slog-swept the spinner for six but it was a risky play as debutant Marcus Harris leaped to catch the ball just behind the rope before tossing it back inside in a failed bid to save runs.

Rohit was out next ball with another ham-fisted attempt to clear the short square boundary, skying a simple catch to the same fielder after Lyon had pitched the ball shorter.

Rishabh Pant was greeted with fierce pace from Mitchell Starc, who beat the young wicketkeeper's bat twice in succession and followed up the deliveries with verbal assaults.

He responded in turn by smashing Starc for six behind square to bring up India's 100th run and then sent an edge flying past the slips for four.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Half-century for Pujara! 👏 
 
He's been the lone positive for India so far on the first day of the Adelaide Test. 
 
Can he push the total to respectability? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> LIVE ⬇️<a href="https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc">https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc</a> <a href="https://t.co/ByXKTHbt9P">pic.twitter.com/ByXKTHbt9P</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1070549769351778304?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 6, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Before that, Australia grabbed early wickets, including the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-usman-khawaja-takes-stunning-catch-to-dismiss-virat-kohli-181771">prized scalp of star batsman Virat Kohli</a>, to have India on the ropes.

On a day when temperatures are forecast to hit 39 Celsius (102 Fahrenheit), the visitors crumbled under an opening barrage from quicks Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins.

India have never won a Test series in Australia.

Cheteshwar Pujara scored a half-century to salvage Indian innings in the opening Test on Thursday in Adelaide as the visitors were at stumbled at 214-8 after 83 overs.

Cheteshwar Pujara scored a half-century to salvage Indian innings in the opening Test on Thursday in Adelaide as the visitors were at stumbled at 214-8 after 83 overs. Pujara played a responsible innings and was unbeaten at 73 after facing 194 balls. He found a determined ally in R Ashwin, who lost his wicket after scoring a crucial 25 runs for his team. After playing several defensive shots, Ishant Sharma returned to the pavilion as India's last wicket after scoring four runs. For Australia, spinner Nathan Lyon struck twice to expose India's tail as the Virat-led staggered to 143 for six at tea. Having won the toss and elected to bat, India resumed after lunch on 56 for four after a disastrous morning of batsmen falling to Australia's pacemen with a slew of poor shots. Pujara and Rohit Sharma, recalled at the expense of Hanuma Vihari, were pinned down after the break by disciplined bowling and the latter tried to break the shackles by attacking Lyon. Cummins snares Ashwin! He walks back for a 76-ball 25, and Australia have the breakthrough. Ashwin's 62-run stand with Pujara is by far India's best on the day. Can they rebuild? #AUSvIND LIVE ⬇️https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc pic.twitter.com/QxBVyIYP3G — ICC (@ICC) December 6, 2018 × He slog-swept the spinner for six but it was a risky play as debutant Marcus Harris leaped to catch the ball just behind the rope before tossing it back inside in a failed bid to save runs. Rohit was out next ball with another ham-fisted attempt to clear the short square boundary, skying a simple catch to the same fielder after Lyon had pitched the ball shorter. Rishabh Pant was greeted with fierce pace from Mitchell Starc, who beat the young wicketkeeper's bat twice in succession and followed up the deliveries with verbal assaults. He responded in turn by smashing Starc for six behind square to bring up India's 100th run and then sent an edge flying past the slips for four. Half-century for Pujara! 👏 He's been the lone positive for India so far on the first day of the Adelaide Test. Can he push the total to respectability? #AUSvIND LIVE ⬇️https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc pic.twitter.com/ByXKTHbt9P — ICC (@ICC) December 6, 2018 × Before that, Australia grabbed early wickets, including the prized scalp of star batsman Virat Kohli, to have India on the ropes. On a day when temperatures are forecast to hit 39 Celsius (102 Fahrenheit), the visitors crumbled under an opening barrage from quicks Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins. India have never won a Test series in Australia.

INDvsAUS, 1st Test, Day 1: India at 214-8 after 83 overs

More misery have been added to Virat Kohli-led team India in the&nbsp;opening day of the first Test as the visitors were at&nbsp;129 for the loss of six wickets after 50 overs.

The Australian bowling department, especially the pacers, have dominated the game so far.

Australia grabbed early wickets, including the prized scalp of star batsman&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-usman-khawaja-takes-stunning-catch-to-dismiss-virat-kohli-181771">Virat Kohli</a>, to have India on the ropes.

After thrashing the top batting order, the Aussies continued the attack as they dismissed Rohit Sharma and&nbsp;Rishabh Pant.

Now, all eyes are on&nbsp;Cheteshwar Pujara as he is playing at a score of 376 runs after&nbsp;facing 120 balls.

Spinner Nathon Lyon, who came into the attack in the 13th over, has stunned the Indian batsmen with his splendid bowling including taking two crucial wickets.

Batting after Kohli <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-1st-test-day-1-virat-kohli-opts-to-bat-in-adelaide-test-181755">won the toss</a> on a day when temperatures are forecast to hit 39 Celsius (102 Fahrenheit), the visitors crumbled under an opening barrage from quicks Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Lyon gets another! 
 
Pant is out caught behind, and another Indian mini-partnership is broken. 
 
They are 127/6, with Pujara on a 119-ball 35*.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> LIVE ⬇️<a href="https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc">https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc</a> <a href="https://t.co/3vJlQWyU5v">pic.twitter.com/3vJlQWyU5v</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1070534152674516993?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 6, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Tim Paine said, "We expect the batsmen to stand-up, we have good players who have done well domestically over the past five-six years"

India have never won a Test series in Australia.

More misery have been added to Virat Kohli-led team India in the opening day of the first Test as the visitors were at 129 for the loss of six wickets after 50 overs.

More misery have been added to Virat Kohli-led team India in the opening day of the first Test as the visitors were at 129 for the loss of six wickets after 50 overs. The Australian bowling department, especially the pacers, have dominated the game so far. Australia grabbed early wickets, including the prized scalp of star batsman Virat Kohli, to have India on the ropes. After thrashing the top batting order, the Aussies continued the attack as they dismissed Rohit Sharma and Rishabh Pant. Now, all eyes are on Cheteshwar Pujara as he is playing at a score of 376 runs after facing 120 balls. Spinner Nathon Lyon, who came into the attack in the 13th over, has stunned the Indian batsmen with his splendid bowling including taking two crucial wickets. Batting after Kohli won the toss on a day when temperatures are forecast to hit 39 Celsius (102 Fahrenheit), the visitors crumbled under an opening barrage from quicks Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins. Lyon gets another! Pant is out caught behind, and another Indian mini-partnership is broken. They are 127/6, with Pujara on a 119-ball 35*.#AUSvIND LIVE ⬇️https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc pic.twitter.com/3vJlQWyU5v — ICC (@ICC) December 6, 2018 × Tim Paine said, "We expect the batsmen to stand-up, we have good players who have done well domestically over the past five-six years" India have never won a Test series in Australia.

INDvsAUS, 1st Test, Day 1: India 129-6 after 50 overs

The Australian bowling department, especially the pacers, have dominated the opening day of first Test so far as India were 92 for the loss of five in Adelaide after 40 overs.

Australia grabbed early wickets, including the prized scalp of star batsman <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-usman-khawaja-takes-stunning-catch-to-dismiss-virat-kohli-181771">Virat Kohli</a>, to have India on the ropes.

Rohit Sharma and Cheteshwar Pujara resumed <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-1st-test-day-1-india-at-56-4-at-lunch-181774">the game after lunch</a> but&nbsp;tried to salvage the innings but fell cheaply to spinner Nathon Lyon.

After drinks break, spinner Nathon Lyon came into the attack in the 13th over.

Rohit playing at number six spot vacated by the injured fast-bowling all-rounder Hardik Pandya, with spin bowling all-rounder Hanuma Vihari missing out.

Rohit Sharma scored 37 from 61 balls.

Rishabh Pant and Pujara were playing.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
India lose their fifth! 
 
Rohit gifts his wicket away attempting to attack, and the 45-run fifth-wicket stand is broken by Lyon. 
 
India are 86/5, and have plenty to do to save the day.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> LIVE ⬇️<a href="https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc">https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc</a> <a href="https://t.co/sC1LEKhd7s">pic.twitter.com/sC1LEKhd7s</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1070521066097913859?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 6, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Earlier, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-1st-test-day-1-virat-kohli-opts-to-bat-in-adelaide-test-181755">after winning the toss</a> on a day when temperatures are forecast to hit 39 Celsius (102 Fahrenheit), the visitors crumbled under an opening barrage from quicks Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins.

KL Rahul, who has been struggling for runs, flopped again, caught by Aaron Finch at third slip off Hazlewood for two.

Veteran Murali Vijay, in the side after young gun Prithvi Shaw suffered ankle ligament damage in a warm-up game, didn't last much longer, caught behind by skipper Tim Paine of Starc for 11.

After that, pacer Hazlewood has added more misery to visitors as he sent back India's vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane at a score of 13 runs.

The Australian bowling department, especially the pacers, have dominated the opening day of first Test so far as India were 92 for the loss of five in Adelaide after 40 overs.

The Australian bowling department, especially the pacers, have dominated the opening day of first Test so far as India were 92 for the loss of five in Adelaide after 40 overs. Australia grabbed early wickets, including the prized scalp of star batsman Virat Kohli, to have India on the ropes. Rohit Sharma and Cheteshwar Pujara resumed the game after lunch but tried to salvage the innings but fell cheaply to spinner Nathon Lyon. After drinks break, spinner Nathon Lyon came into the attack in the 13th over. Rohit playing at number six spot vacated by the injured fast-bowling all-rounder Hardik Pandya, with spin bowling all-rounder Hanuma Vihari missing out. Rohit Sharma scored 37 from 61 balls. Rishabh Pant and Pujara were playing. India lose their fifth! Rohit gifts his wicket away attempting to attack, and the 45-run fifth-wicket stand is broken by Lyon. India are 86/5, and have plenty to do to save the day.#AUSvIND LIVE ⬇️https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc pic.twitter.com/sC1LEKhd7s — ICC (@ICC) December 6, 2018 × Earlier, after winning the toss on a day when temperatures are forecast to hit 39 Celsius (102 Fahrenheit), the visitors crumbled under an opening barrage from quicks Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins. KL Rahul, who has been struggling for runs, flopped again, caught by Aaron Finch at third slip off Hazlewood for two. Veteran Murali Vijay, in the side after young gun Prithvi Shaw suffered ankle ligament damage in a warm-up game, didn't last much longer, caught behind by skipper Tim Paine of Starc for 11. After that, pacer Hazlewood has added more misery to visitors as he sent back India's vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane at a score of 13 runs.

INDvsAUS, 1st Test, Day 1: India 92-5 after 40 overs

India were at a score of 56 runs for the loss of four wickets at lunch on the opening day of the first Test in Adelaide.

Australia grabbed three early wickets, including the prized scalp of star batsman <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-usman-khawaja-takes-stunning-catch-to-dismiss-virat-kohli-181771">Virat Kohli</a>, to have India on the ropes.

After <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-1st-test-day-1-virat-kohli-opts-to-bat-in-adelaide-test-181755">winning the toss</a> on a day when temperatures are forecast to hit 39 Celsius (102 Fahrenheit), the visitors crumbled under an opening barrage from quicks Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins.

KL Rahul, who has been struggling for runs, flopped again, caught by Aaron Finch at third slip off Hazlewood for two.

Veteran Murali Vijay, in the side after young gun Prithvi Shaw suffered ankle ligament damage in a warm-up game, didn't last much longer, caught behind by skipper Tim Paine of Starc for 11.

After that, pacer Hazlewood has added more misery to visitors as he sent back India's vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane at a score of 13 runs.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Lunch in Adelaide! 🍴 
 
It was an excellent session for Australia. India head in to the break at 56/4, with Josh Hazlewood taking 2/17. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> LIVE ⬇️<a href="https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc">https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc</a> <a href="https://t.co/0JKYwSoRja">pic.twitter.com/0JKYwSoRja</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1070500434106834944?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 6, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

In marched superstar Kohli to a huge roar from the crowd, but a stunning <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-usman-khawaja-takes-stunning-catch-to-dismiss-virat-kohli-181771">catch by Usman Khawaja</a> at gully off a Pat Cummins delivery saw him back in the pavilion for only three off 16 balls, with India in trouble.

At lunch, Cheteshwar Pujara and Rohit Sharma were on 11 and 15 respectively.

Rohit is playing at number six spot vacated by the injured fast-bowling all-rounder Hardik Pandya, with spin bowling all-rounder Hanuma Vihari missing out.

India have never won a Test series in Australia.

India were at a score of 56 runs for the loss of four wickets at lunch on the opening day of the first Test in Adelaide. Australia grabbed three early wickets, including the prized scalp of star batsman Virat Kohli, to have India on the ropes.

India were at a score of 56 runs for the loss of four wickets at lunch on the opening day of the first Test in Adelaide. Australia grabbed three early wickets, including the prized scalp of star batsman Virat Kohli, to have India on the ropes. After winning the toss on a day when temperatures are forecast to hit 39 Celsius (102 Fahrenheit), the visitors crumbled under an opening barrage from quicks Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins. KL Rahul, who has been struggling for runs, flopped again, caught by Aaron Finch at third slip off Hazlewood for two. Veteran Murali Vijay, in the side after young gun Prithvi Shaw suffered ankle ligament damage in a warm-up game, didn't last much longer, caught behind by skipper Tim Paine of Starc for 11. After that, pacer Hazlewood has added more misery to visitors as he sent back India's vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane at a score of 13 runs. Lunch in Adelaide! 🍴 It was an excellent session for Australia. India head in to the break at 56/4, with Josh Hazlewood taking 2/17. #AUSvIND LIVE ⬇️https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc pic.twitter.com/0JKYwSoRja — ICC (@ICC) December 6, 2018 × In marched superstar Kohli to a huge roar from the crowd, but a stunning catch by Usman Khawaja at gully off a Pat Cummins delivery saw him back in the pavilion for only three off 16 balls, with India in trouble. At lunch, Cheteshwar Pujara and Rohit Sharma were on 11 and 15 respectively. Rohit is playing at number six spot vacated by the injured fast-bowling all-rounder Hardik Pandya, with spin bowling all-rounder Hanuma Vihari missing out. India have never won a Test series in Australia.

INDvsAUS, 1st Test, Day 1: India at 56-4 at lunch

Australian player Usman Khawaja took a stunning catch on Pat Cummins first over to dismiss Indian skipper Virat Kohli on the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-1st-test-day-1-india-at-21-3-after-11-overs-181766">opening day of the first Test</a> in Adelaide.

In marched superstar Kohli to a huge roar from the crowd, but a stunning catch by Khawaja at gully off a Pat Cummins delivery saw him back in the pavilion for only three off 16 balls, left India in trouble.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-1st-test-day-1-virat-kohli-opts-to-bat-in-adelaide-test-181755">After winning the toss</a>, Virat had said, "Runs on the board will be always handy in any condition. Every tour is an opportunity, it's always a difficult challenge in Australia."

"I love playing here in Adelaide, the wicket is good and the stadium is great."&nbsp;

However, his wicket had put additional pressure on the middle batting order.

Watch Virat Kohli wicket:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
WHAT A CATCH! <a href="https://twitter.com/Uz_Khawaja?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Uz_Khawaja</a> takes a blinder and <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imvKohli</a> is OUT!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/SBg9kFWUIj">pic.twitter.com/SBg9kFWUIj</a>
— 7 Cricket (@7Cricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/7Cricket/status/1070480983667830787?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 6, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

India have never won a Test series in Australia.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
To Remove A Best Player Like Virat Kohli You Need To Give Your Best On Field... Watch This Best Effort To Take That Screamer From <a href="https://twitter.com/Uz_Khawaja?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Uz_Khawaja</a> To Remove <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> Incredible from Usman Khawja <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/irM4V6Fvdj">pic.twitter.com/irM4V6Fvdj</a>
— Jersey Number #23 #17 ❤️ (@SRKian_Aaftab) <a href="https://twitter.com/SRKian_Aaftab/status/1070487551645892608?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 6, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Josh Hazelwood struck in the second over itself and got KL Rahul's wicket, who thought to go for the drive but edged it in the safe hands of Aaron Finch.

Murli Vijay was struggling with the seam and caught by Australian skipper Tim Paine as he edged Mitchell Starc's ball.

Australian player Usman Khawaja took a stunning catch on Pat Cummins first over to dismiss Indian skipper Virat Kohli on the opening day of the first Test in Adelaide.

Australian player Usman Khawaja took a stunning catch on Pat Cummins first over to dismiss Indian skipper Virat Kohli on the opening day of the first Test in Adelaide. In marched superstar Kohli to a huge roar from the crowd, but a stunning catch by Khawaja at gully off a Pat Cummins delivery saw him back in the pavilion for only three off 16 balls, left India in trouble. After winning the toss, Virat had said, "Runs on the board will be always handy in any condition. Every tour is an opportunity, it's always a difficult challenge in Australia." "I love playing here in Adelaide, the wicket is good and the stadium is great." However, his wicket had put additional pressure on the middle batting order. Watch Virat Kohli wicket: WHAT A CATCH! @Uz_Khawaja takes a blinder and @imvKohli is OUT!#AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/SBg9kFWUIj — 7 Cricket (@7Cricket) December 6, 2018 × India have never won a Test series in Australia. To Remove A Best Player Like Virat Kohli You Need To Give Your Best On Field... Watch This Best Effort To Take That Screamer From @Uz_Khawaja To Remove @imVkohli Incredible from Usman Khawja #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/irM4V6Fvdj — Jersey Number #23 #17 ❤️ (@SRKian_Aaftab) December 6, 2018 × Josh Hazelwood struck in the second over itself and got KL Rahul's wicket, who thought to go for the drive but edged it in the safe hands of Aaron Finch. Murli Vijay was struggling with the seam and caught by Australian skipper Tim Paine as he edged Mitchell Starc's ball.

Watch: Usman Khawaja takes stunning catch to dismiss Virat Kohli

Virat Kohli won the toss and opted to bat against Australia in the first Test match of a four-match series on December 6 at Adelaide Oval.

After winning the toss, Virat said, "Runs on the board will be always handy in any condition. Every tour is an opportunity, it's always a difficult challenge in Australia."

Temperatures are expected to soar to 39 degrees Celsius, leaving a potentially tough day for Australia's seamers, who lack the support of dropped fast-bowling all rounder Mitchell Marsh.

Virat further added, "Taking nothing for granted, nothing lightly. We are looking forward to a challenging series, to measure ourselves against one of the best sides in the world."

"I love playing here in Adelaide, the wicket is good and the stadium is great."&nbsp;

Viratconfirmed that specialist batsman Rohit Sharma would take the number six spot vacated by the injured fast-bowling all-rounder, Hardik Pandya, with spin bowling all-rounder Hanuma Vihari missing out.

"Rohit Sharma will bat at six, he can bat well with tail, has the shots on these kinds of wickets, he's good with the short ball and can attack the bowlers," he said.

Tim Paine said, "We expect the batsmen to stand-up, we have good players who have done well domestically over the past five-six years"

Here is the playing XI:

India: Murali Vijay, Lokesh Rahul, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli(c), Ajinkya Rahane, Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant(w), Ravichandran Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma, Mohammed Shami.

Australia: Marcus Harris, Aaron Finch, Usman Khawaja, Shaun Marsh, Peter Handscomb, Travis Head, Tim Paine(w/c), Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Nathan Lyon.

Virat Kohli won the toss and opted to bat against Australia in the first Test match of a four-match series on December 6 at Adelaide Oval. After winning the toss, Virat said, "Runs on the board will be always handy in any condition.

Virat Kohli won the toss and opted to bat against Australia in the first Test match of a four-match series on December 6 at Adelaide Oval. After winning the toss, Virat said, "Runs on the board will be always handy in any condition. Every tour is an opportunity, it's always a difficult challenge in Australia." Temperatures are expected to soar to 39 degrees Celsius, leaving a potentially tough day for Australia's seamers, who lack the support of dropped fast-bowling all rounder Mitchell Marsh. Virat further added, "Taking nothing for granted, nothing lightly. We are looking forward to a challenging series, to measure ourselves against one of the best sides in the world." "I love playing here in Adelaide, the wicket is good and the stadium is great." Viratconfirmed that specialist batsman Rohit Sharma would take the number six spot vacated by the injured fast-bowling all-rounder, Hardik Pandya, with spin bowling all-rounder Hanuma Vihari missing out. "Rohit Sharma will bat at six, he can bat well with tail, has the shots on these kinds of wickets, he's good with the short ball and can attack the bowlers," he said. Tim Paine said, "We expect the batsmen to stand-up, we have good players who have done well domestically over the past five-six years" Here is the playing XI: India: Murali Vijay, Lokesh Rahul, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli(c), Ajinkya Rahane, Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant(w), Ravichandran Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma, Mohammed Shami. Australia: Marcus Harris, Aaron Finch, Usman Khawaja, Shaun Marsh, Peter Handscomb, Travis Head, Tim Paine(w/c), Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Nathan Lyon.

India vs Australia, 1st Test, Day 1: Virat Kohli opts to bat in Adelaide Test

Australia-India, the classic rivalry: Here are 5 memorable Test clashes

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/indvsaus-1st-test-day-1-cheteshwar-pujara-slams-his-16th-test-century-181857">Cheteshwar Pujara</a> struck a defiant century in an Adelaide Oval furnace to rescue India after Australia's pacemen threatened to dominate day one of the series-opening Test on Thursday.

The India number three was a rock as his partners crumbled around him, pushing India to 250 for nine at the close with a brutal assault on the second new ball.

Unbroken by fierce pace bowling, Pujara was dismissed by a piece of brilliant fielding, with Pat Cummins throwing down the stumps to leave the batsman well short of his ground.

Tail-ender Mohammed Shami survived to stumps on six, with Jasprit Bumrah the last batsman to resume on day two.

It was nonetheless a positive finish for <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-usman-khawaja-takes-stunning-catch-to-dismiss-virat-kohli-181771">Virat Kohli</a>'s side who had slumped to 86 for five after lunch, falling to a combination of dreadful shot-making and fierce Australian pace after winning the toss.

Pujara anchored vital partnerships with young wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant and Ravichandran Ashwin before completing his 16th Test century with a flick off his pads after scoring his 5,000th run in Tests.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Stumps on Day 1 in Adelaide! 
 
Pujara is dismissed just before the end of play, but his century has helped India get to 250/9. 
 
Australia will still be delighted, having been asked to field. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> SCORECARD ⬇️<a href="https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc">https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc</a> <a href="https://t.co/zskoCJrfN7">pic.twitter.com/zskoCJrfN7</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1070583355350151169?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 6, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

India resumed on 143 for six after lunch with seamer Cummins having Ashwin edge to the slips and Mitchell Starc bowling Ishant Sharma for four.

Spinner Nathan Lyon struck twice to expose India's tail after lunch, having Rohit Sharma slog-sweep to a fielder for 37 before Pant fell for 25 feathering an edge behind.

India had lost 41 for four in the morning to Australia's fired-up seamers, with Usman Khawaja taking a brilliant one-handed catch to remove Kohli for three after both the openers fell cheaply.

"Stuck my hand out and it stuck. It's nice when they do stick," said Khawaja.

"It was a good little momentum-goer too, because we got a couple of early ones ... and we got a few more so it was nice."

Seamer Josh Hazlewood grabbed two wickets in the morning session, removing Ajinkya Rahane (13) and the out-of-form Lokesh Rahul (two).

Starc removed Murali Vijay for a streaky 11, the recalled batsman edging another rash shot behind to Tim Paine.

Cheteshwar Pujara struck a defiant century in an Adelaide Oval furnace to rescue India after Australia's pacemen threatened to dominate day one of the series-opening Test on Thursday.

Cheteshwar Pujara struck a defiant century in an Adelaide Oval furnace to rescue India after Australia's pacemen threatened to dominate day one of the series-opening Test on Thursday. The India number three was a rock as his partners crumbled around him, pushing India to 250 for nine at the close with a brutal assault on the second new ball. Unbroken by fierce pace bowling, Pujara was dismissed by a piece of brilliant fielding, with Pat Cummins throwing down the stumps to leave the batsman well short of his ground. Tail-ender Mohammed Shami survived to stumps on six, with Jasprit Bumrah the last batsman to resume on day two. It was nonetheless a positive finish for Virat Kohli's side who had slumped to 86 for five after lunch, falling to a combination of dreadful shot-making and fierce Australian pace after winning the toss. Pujara anchored vital partnerships with young wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant and Ravichandran Ashwin before completing his 16th Test century with a flick off his pads after scoring his 5,000th run in Tests. Stumps on Day 1 in Adelaide! Pujara is dismissed just before the end of play, but his century has helped India get to 250/9. Australia will still be delighted, having been asked to field. #AUSvIND SCORECARD ⬇️https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc pic.twitter.com/zskoCJrfN7 — ICC (@ICC) December 6, 2018 × India resumed on 143 for six after lunch with seamer Cummins having Ashwin edge to the slips and Mitchell Starc bowling Ishant Sharma for four. Spinner Nathan Lyon struck twice to expose India's tail after lunch, having Rohit Sharma slog-sweep to a fielder for 37 before Pant fell for 25 feathering an edge behind. India had lost 41 for four in the morning to Australia's fired-up seamers, with Usman Khawaja taking a brilliant one-handed catch to remove Kohli for three after both the openers fell cheaply. "Stuck my hand out and it stuck. It's nice when they do stick," said Khawaja. "It was a good little momentum-goer too, because we got a couple of early ones ... and we got a few more so it was nice." Seamer Josh Hazlewood grabbed two wickets in the morning session, removing Ajinkya Rahane (13) and the out-of-form Lokesh Rahul (two). Starc removed Murali Vijay for a streaky 11, the recalled batsman edging another rash shot behind to Tim Paine.

INDvsAUS, 1st Test, Day 1: Cheteshwar Pujara rescues India in Adelaide Oval

Cheteshwar Pujara slammed his 16th Test century in the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/indvsaus-1st-test-day-1-cheteshwar-pujara-scores-50-india-at-154-6-after-60-overs-181827">opening Test</a> against Australia on Thursday, also his first century on&nbsp;Australian soil.

In a pressure situation when other players stumbled in front of the Australian brutal bowling, Pujara was at the helm of salvaging India's innings in Adelaide.

Pujara also completed his 5000 Test runs.

Earlier,&nbsp;Australia grabbed quick wickets in the first session, including the prized scalp of star batsman <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-usman-khawaja-takes-stunning-catch-to-dismiss-virat-kohli-181771">Virat Kohli</a>, to have India on the ropes.

After winning the toss on a day when temperatures are forecast to hit 39 Celsius (102 Fahrenheit), the visitors crumbled under an opening barrage from quicks Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins.

Australian spinner Nathan Lyon struck twice to expose India's tail.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Pujara scores his 16th Test century! He also completes 5000 runs in Test cricket! 👏 
 
A supreme, defiant knock, even as the rest of the Indian batsmen struggled, and he has kept the team's hopes alive here. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> LIVE ⬇️<a href="https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc">https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc</a> <a href="https://t.co/T29wQax7Hk">pic.twitter.com/T29wQax7Hk</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1070577838141644800?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 6, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

KL Rahul, who has been struggling for runs, flopped again, caught by Aaron Finch at third slip off Hazlewood for two.

Veteran Murali Vijay didn't last much longer, caught behind by skipper Tim Paine of Starc for 11.

After that, pacer Hazlewood has added more misery to visitors as he sent back India's vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane at a score of 13 runs.

Rohit slog-swept the spinner for six but it was a risky play as debutant Marcus Harris leaped to catch the ball just behind the rope before tossing it back inside in a failed bid to save runs.

Rohit was out next ball with another ham-fisted attempt to clear the short square boundary, skying a simple catch to the same fielder after Lyon had pitched the ball shorter.

Rishabh Pant was greeted with fierce pace from Mitchell Starc, who beat the young wicketkeeper's bat twice in succession and followed up the deliveries with verbal assaults.

He responded in turn by smashing Starc for six behind square to bring up India's 100th run and then sent an edge flying past the slips for four.

Cheteshwar Pujara slammed his 16th Test century in the opening Test against Australia on Thursday, also his first century on Australian soil. In a pressure situation when other players stumbled in front of the Australian brutal bowling, Pujara was at the helm of salvaging India's innings in Adelaide.

Cheteshwar Pujara slammed his 16th Test century in the opening Test against Australia on Thursday, also his first century on Australian soil. In a pressure situation when other players stumbled in front of the Australian brutal bowling, Pujara was at the helm of salvaging India's innings in Adelaide. Pujara also completed his 5000 Test runs. Earlier, Australia grabbed quick wickets in the first session, including the prized scalp of star batsman Virat Kohli, to have India on the ropes. After winning the toss on a day when temperatures are forecast to hit 39 Celsius (102 Fahrenheit), the visitors crumbled under an opening barrage from quicks Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins. Australian spinner Nathan Lyon struck twice to expose India's tail. Pujara scores his 16th Test century! He also completes 5000 runs in Test cricket! 👏 A supreme, defiant knock, even as the rest of the Indian batsmen struggled, and he has kept the team's hopes alive here. #AUSvIND LIVE ⬇️https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc pic.twitter.com/T29wQax7Hk — ICC (@ICC) December 6, 2018 × KL Rahul, who has been struggling for runs, flopped again, caught by Aaron Finch at third slip off Hazlewood for two. Veteran Murali Vijay didn't last much longer, caught behind by skipper Tim Paine of Starc for 11. After that, pacer Hazlewood has added more misery to visitors as he sent back India's vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane at a score of 13 runs. Rohit slog-swept the spinner for six but it was a risky play as debutant Marcus Harris leaped to catch the ball just behind the rope before tossing it back inside in a failed bid to save runs. Rohit was out next ball with another ham-fisted attempt to clear the short square boundary, skying a simple catch to the same fielder after Lyon had pitched the ball shorter. Rishabh Pant was greeted with fierce pace from Mitchell Starc, who beat the young wicketkeeper's bat twice in succession and followed up the deliveries with verbal assaults. He responded in turn by smashing Starc for six behind square to bring up India's 100th run and then sent an edge flying past the slips for four.

INDvsAUS, 1st Test, Day 1: Cheteshwar Pujara completes his 16th Test ton

No.1 Test team India will take on Australia tomorrow in the first of the four test-game series. The upcoming games are seen by the cricket pundits as the best chance for the Men in Blue to end their Test series jinx as Australia will be without Steve Smith and David Warner.

The Indian cricket team has never won a Test series in Australia but with the star batsmen not being part of the Australian squad due to their roles in the ball-tampering scandal, the visitors for the first time will enter the ground as favourites.&nbsp;

A day before the nail-biting clash begins, let's take a look at the top five Indian batsmen who could make a big impact against Australia.&nbsp;

1) Virat Kohli:&nbsp;Virat, the number 1-ranked Test batsman in the world, has been in top form this year in all formats. So far in 2018, Kohli has played a total of 10 Test matches so far, scoring 1,063 runs, including four centuries, at an average of 59.05. Out of the 10 Tests, eight were outside of India - five in England and three in South Africa. In the five Tests in England, Kohli amassed 593 runs at an average of 59.30 while in South Africa, the Indian skipper scored 286 runs in 3 Tests at an average of 47.66.

2) Murali Vijay: The India opener has not been in his best form so far but has the potential to take the Aussie bowlers apart. He has played six Tests, scoring a total of 233 runs at a dismal average of 21.18 with just a solitary century to his name. &nbsp;Due to his poor show, Vijay was ignored for the two-Test series against the Windies in India but made his case for an opening slot in the Adelaide Test with a classy 132-ball 129, which included 16 boundaries and five sixes. The last time Vijay played in Adelaide, he scored 53 and 99. In the four-match series in 2014/15, which India lost 0-2, he had scored a total of 482 runs at an average of 60.25.

3) KL Rahul: Like his opening partner, Rahul too has struggled in the longest format of the game this year. The 26-year-old has played 10 Tests this year, scoring a total of 420 runs at an average of 24.70 with just a single hundred. Consistency has been Rahul's biggest problem and the right-hander should count himself lucky that Prithvi Shaw is injured, getting a chance to prove his worth again.&nbsp;

4) Cheteshwar Pujara: Pujara too has had an underwhelming year but the middle-order batsman has scored 509 runs in 10 Tests this year at an average of 31.81 with one century to his name. The right-hander struggled big time in South Africa with a return of just 100 runs in the three Tests at an average of 16.66. His poor performance against the Proteas saw him being dropped from the first Test against England at Edgbaston. But he returned for the next four Tests where he managed to score 278 runs at an average of 39.71.

5) Rishabh Pant: The young wicketkeeper-batsman is seen as the perfect replacement for MS Dhoni, both as gloveman and middle-order batsman. &nbsp;His performances with the bat, in his brief period with the Indian Test team that has also raised expectations among the fans. Pant has played five Tests in total -- three in England and two against the Windies in India. He has scored 346 runs at an average of 43.25. The youngster already has a Test century to his name and that also in England. The 21-year-old was prolific against the Windies as well, scoring 184 runs in the two-Test series at an average of 92.

No.1 Test team India will take on Australia tomorrow in the first of the four test-game series. The upcoming games are seen by the cricket pundits as the best chance for the Men in Blue to end their Test series jinx as Australia will be without Steve Smith and David Warner.

No.1 Test team India will take on Australia tomorrow in the first of the four test-game series. The upcoming games are seen by the cricket pundits as the best chance for the Men in Blue to end their Test series jinx as Australia will be without Steve Smith and David Warner. The Indian cricket team has never won a Test series in Australia but with the star batsmen not being part of the Australian squad due to their roles in the ball-tampering scandal, the visitors for the first time will enter the ground as favourites. A day before the nail-biting clash begins, let's take a look at the top five Indian batsmen who could make a big impact against Australia. 1) Virat Kohli: Virat, the number 1-ranked Test batsman in the world, has been in top form this year in all formats. So far in 2018, Kohli has played a total of 10 Test matches so far, scoring 1,063 runs, including four centuries, at an average of 59.05. Out of the 10 Tests, eight were outside of India - five in England and three in South Africa. In the five Tests in England, Kohli amassed 593 runs at an average of 59.30 while in South Africa, the Indian skipper scored 286 runs in 3 Tests at an average of 47.66. 2) Murali Vijay: The India opener has not been in his best form so far but has the potential to take the Aussie bowlers apart. He has played six Tests, scoring a total of 233 runs at a dismal average of 21.18 with just a solitary century to his name. Due to his poor show, Vijay was ignored for the two-Test series against the Windies in India but made his case for an opening slot in the Adelaide Test with a classy 132-ball 129, which included 16 boundaries and five sixes. The last time Vijay played in Adelaide, he scored 53 and 99. In the four-match series in 2014/15, which India lost 0-2, he had scored a total of 482 runs at an average of 60.25. 3) KL Rahul: Like his opening partner, Rahul too has struggled in the longest format of the game this year. The 26-year-old has played 10 Tests this year, scoring a total of 420 runs at an average of 24.70 with just a single hundred. Consistency has been Rahul's biggest problem and the right-hander should count himself lucky that Prithvi Shaw is injured, getting a chance to prove his worth again. 4) Cheteshwar Pujara: Pujara too has had an underwhelming year but the middle-order batsman has scored 509 runs in 10 Tests this year at an average of 31.81 with one century to his name. The right-hander struggled big time in South Africa with a return of just 100 runs in the three Tests at an average of 16.66. His poor performance against the Proteas saw him being dropped from the first Test against England at Edgbaston. But he returned for the next four Tests where he managed to score 278 runs at an average of 39.71. 5) Rishabh Pant: The young wicketkeeper-batsman is seen as the perfect replacement for MS Dhoni, both as gloveman and middle-order batsman. His performances with the bat, in his brief period with the Indian Test team that has also raised expectations among the fans. Pant has played five Tests in total -- three in England and two against the Windies in India. He has scored 346 runs at an average of 43.25. The youngster already has a Test century to his name and that also in England. The 21-year-old was prolific against the Windies as well, scoring 184 runs in the two-Test series at an average of 92.

1st Test: 5 Indian batsmen to watch out for against Australia at Adelaide

Australia are still favourites to win the four-test series against India even without Steve Smith and David Warner because of the strength of their bowling attack, Ajinkya Rahane said on Tuesday.

Many pundits have tipped India to end their 70-year wait for a first test series triumph in Australia after their top batsmen Smith and Warner were banned for a year in the aftermath of March's ball-tampering scandal in South Africa.

Rahane, however, was keen to throw the pressure of expectation back on the hosts when the much-anticipated series gets underway in Adelaide on Thursday, and scoffed when he was asked whether Australia would be ripe for the picking.

"Not really," the India vice-captain told reporters at Adelaide Oval.

"I feel that any team that plays at home, they feel really good, and I feel that Australia are still the favourites to win the series.

"We are not going to take them lightly at all. Yes, they (will) miss Steve Smith and David Warner but I don't think they are vulnerable.

"You see their bowling attack, they've got a really good bowling attack, and I think to win test matches, you need to have a really good bowling attack. So I feel that Australia are really still the favourites."

Although not quite reaching the heights of captain Virat Kohli's 692 runs, Rahane had a good tour the last time India visited Australia in 2014-15 with 399 runs at an average of 57.

India still lost the series 2-0, however, and the 30-year-old suggested the players had learned the importance of contributing to the team effort on that trip.

"When you do well as a team, you feel really good," he added.

"This is a team sport ... and it is the job of each and every bat to contribute for the team. And I think it's important that we get those long partnerships together, in Australia that will really help us a lot."

Rahane and Kohli did that in the Boxing Day test on the last tour, putting together a fourth-wicket stand of 262 in India's first innings with scores of 147 and 169 respectively while illustrating their different approaches to the game.

"Last time here, we really enjoyed batting together a lot, especially at the MCG," Rahane recalled.

"Mitchell Johnson was really going after Virat Kohli and I was at the other end playing my game. Virat at the other end was really aggressive and going after bowlers.

"I was able to focus on my game, I still attacked but I was completely the opposite to Virat."

Australia are still favourites to win the four-test series against India even without Steve Smith and David Warner because of the strength of their bowling attack, Ajinkya Rahane said on Tuesday.

Australia are still favourites to win the four-test series against India even without Steve Smith and David Warner because of the strength of their bowling attack, Ajinkya Rahane said on Tuesday. Many pundits have tipped India to end their 70-year wait for a first test series triumph in Australia after their top batsmen Smith and Warner were banned for a year in the aftermath of March's ball-tampering scandal in South Africa. Rahane, however, was keen to throw the pressure of expectation back on the hosts when the much-anticipated series gets underway in Adelaide on Thursday, and scoffed when he was asked whether Australia would be ripe for the picking. "Not really," the India vice-captain told reporters at Adelaide Oval. "I feel that any team that plays at home, they feel really good, and I feel that Australia are still the favourites to win the series. "We are not going to take them lightly at all. Yes, they (will) miss Steve Smith and David Warner but I don't think they are vulnerable. "You see their bowling attack, they've got a really good bowling attack, and I think to win test matches, you need to have a really good bowling attack. So I feel that Australia are really still the favourites." Although not quite reaching the heights of captain Virat Kohli's 692 runs, Rahane had a good tour the last time India visited Australia in 2014-15 with 399 runs at an average of 57. India still lost the series 2-0, however, and the 30-year-old suggested the players had learned the importance of contributing to the team effort on that trip. "When you do well as a team, you feel really good," he added. "This is a team sport ... and it is the job of each and every bat to contribute for the team. And I think it's important that we get those long partnerships together, in Australia that will really help us a lot." Rahane and Kohli did that in the Boxing Day test on the last tour, putting together a fourth-wicket stand of 262 in India's first innings with scores of 147 and 169 respectively while illustrating their different approaches to the game. "Last time here, we really enjoyed batting together a lot, especially at the MCG," Rahane recalled. "Mitchell Johnson was really going after Virat Kohli and I was at the other end playing my game. Virat at the other end was really aggressive and going after bowlers. "I was able to focus on my game, I still attacked but I was completely the opposite to Virat."

India vs Australia, 1st Test: Aussies still favourite, says Ajinkya Rahane

India vs Australia, 1st Test: Adelaide pitch will play crucial role

Virat Kohli can be "rattled" and Australia should try to get under his skin rather than sitting back and be bullied by the Indian captain, said former skipper Ricky Ponting.

India will take on Australia in the four-Test series beginning here Thursday and former Australia batsman Dean Jones has advised against provoking Kohli.

The India skipper has mellowed down since the previous tour Down Under but when asked if he will be baiting Australia on the field, Ponting said: "Well, he might. I don't necessarily believe that he is someone you shouldn't try to get under his skin. I have seen him rattled.

"Mitchell Johnson definitely rattled him a few times with some good hostile bowling and some good hostile body language around him. So, I would not sit back and let anyone bully," Ponting told cricket.Com.Au.&nbsp;

"The way we go about playing cricket, especially at home, it is about good strong body language. That is the way Australians have always played their best."&nbsp;

Ponting, under whom Australia dominated world cricket, said it would be "rubbish" if the current side doesn't play with an aggressive mindset.

"Yes, Australian teams of the past have always had few words to say but it was always on the back of some good hostile bowling, you can't do without it. It is rubbish otherwise.&nbsp;

"You have to able to impose yourself on the game in a way other than using your mouth. You got to use your actions and skills."

India lost the four-Test series 0-2 four years ago but Kohli amassed 692 runs at an average of 86.25, including four centuries.&nbsp;

Had he been the captain, Ponting says he wouldn't have allowed Kohli to get a good start.

"With someone like him who likes to score freely, he has obviously got a big ego, there are other things you can do. Don't let him score boundaries early on. Try and ball tight consistent stuff," he said.

"He also likes to run the ball down to third man so may be play around with guys behind the wicket in different areas, just get inside his head as to what we are trying to do.

"Another thing I will be doing is going back and looking at who has had the most success against him and why. The first one that comes to mind is James Anderson. He seems to trouble him the most," added Ponting.

Virat Kohli can be "rattled" and Australia should try to get under his skin rather than sitting back and be bullied by the Indian captain, said former skipper Ricky Ponting.

Virat Kohli can be "rattled" and Australia should try to get under his skin rather than sitting back and be bullied by the Indian captain, said former skipper Ricky Ponting. India will take on Australia in the four-Test series beginning here Thursday and former Australia batsman Dean Jones has advised against provoking Kohli. The India skipper has mellowed down since the previous tour Down Under but when asked if he will be baiting Australia on the field, Ponting said: "Well, he might. I don't necessarily believe that he is someone you shouldn't try to get under his skin. I have seen him rattled. "Mitchell Johnson definitely rattled him a few times with some good hostile bowling and some good hostile body language around him. So, I would not sit back and let anyone bully," Ponting told cricket.Com.Au. "The way we go about playing cricket, especially at home, it is about good strong body language. That is the way Australians have always played their best." Ponting, under whom Australia dominated world cricket, said it would be "rubbish" if the current side doesn't play with an aggressive mindset. "Yes, Australian teams of the past have always had few words to say but it was always on the back of some good hostile bowling, you can't do without it. It is rubbish otherwise. "You have to able to impose yourself on the game in a way other than using your mouth. You got to use your actions and skills." India lost the four-Test series 0-2 four years ago but Kohli amassed 692 runs at an average of 86.25, including four centuries. Had he been the captain, Ponting says he wouldn't have allowed Kohli to get a good start. "With someone like him who likes to score freely, he has obviously got a big ego, there are other things you can do. Don't let him score boundaries early on. Try and ball tight consistent stuff," he said. "He also likes to run the ball down to third man so may be play around with guys behind the wicket in different areas, just get inside his head as to what we are trying to do. "Another thing I will be doing is going back and looking at who has had the most success against him and why. The first one that comes to mind is James Anderson. He seems to trouble him the most," added Ponting.

Kohli can still be rattled, don't let him be a bully: Ponting to Australia

Former Australian player Steve Waugh praised Indian skipper Virat Kohli saying, he is a "great player", ahead of the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-2018-19-schedule-teams-time-and-venue-177740">Adelaide Test</a>, which will start from December 6.

While speaking to a&nbsp;cricket-related website,&nbsp;Waugh was asked how Australia should tackle the Kohli threat.

Waugh replied, "He [Virat Kohli] is a great player and loves the big moment, a bit like Tendulkar and Lara."

India captain Virat Kohli is likely to be the biggest threat for the Australian bowlers, as they look to maintain their unbeaten record at home against the Asian giants.

The&nbsp;53-year-old said that&nbsp;the upcoming four-match rubber is a "significant chance" for India to win their first Test series Down Under.&nbsp;

Aussies' former captain added, "They wait for these big series and that's where they want to show their best. So who is the dangerman for Australia? They have got some really good batsmen, they have got a very good all-round team."

"I will see this as a significant chance and they would have prepared for this tour for a long time, I think it's going to be a really close series."

Former wicketkeeper Adam Gilchrist said the visitors would mainly bank on their talismanic skipper to get runs on the board.

"Virat is clearly the best player in the world at the moment. So India will look to him to score heavily but all are going to have their challenges and as too will the Australian batting line-up," Gilchrist said.&nbsp;

The big-hitting batsman of yesteryears was of the opinion that the Australian pace attack comprising Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood could pose tough questions.

"I think Pat Cummins is outstanding, Hazlewood is almost McGrath like with his bowling. Those three guys and there are a couple in the wings who are high-quality fast bowlers."

Former Australian player Steve Waugh praised Indian skipper Virat Kohli saying, he is a "great player", ahead of the Adelaide Test, which will start from December 6.

Former Australian player Steve Waugh praised Indian skipper Virat Kohli saying, he is a "great player", ahead of the Adelaide Test, which will start from December 6. While speaking to a cricket-related website, Waugh was asked how Australia should tackle the Kohli threat. Waugh replied, "He [Virat Kohli] is a great player and loves the big moment, a bit like Tendulkar and Lara." India captain Virat Kohli is likely to be the biggest threat for the Australian bowlers, as they look to maintain their unbeaten record at home against the Asian giants. The 53-year-old said that the upcoming four-match rubber is a "significant chance" for India to win their first Test series Down Under. Aussies' former captain added, "They wait for these big series and that's where they want to show their best. So who is the dangerman for Australia? They have got some really good batsmen, they have got a very good all-round team." "I will see this as a significant chance and they would have prepared for this tour for a long time, I think it's going to be a really close series." Former wicketkeeper Adam Gilchrist said the visitors would mainly bank on their talismanic skipper to get runs on the board. "Virat is clearly the best player in the world at the moment. So India will look to him to score heavily but all are going to have their challenges and as too will the Australian batting line-up," Gilchrist said. The big-hitting batsman of yesteryears was of the opinion that the Australian pace attack comprising Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood could pose tough questions. "I think Pat Cummins is outstanding, Hazlewood is almost McGrath like with his bowling. Those three guys and there are a couple in the wings who are high-quality fast bowlers."

Virat Kohli is bit like Tendulkar and Lara, says Steve Waugh ahead of Adelaide Test

India batsman Prithvi Shaw has been ruled out of next week's first Test against Australia after the young opener injured his ankle while fielding during a tour match in Sydney on Friday, according to the country's cricket board (BCCI).

The 19-year-old was taken to hospital for scans after he rolled his left ankle when taking a catch on the deep mid-wicket boundary and tumbled over the rope during the third day of the warm-up contest against an Australia XI.

Shaw was chaired off the field by India physiotherapist Patrick Farhart and a support staff member into the away team dressing room at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG).

"Shaw underwent scans this morning and the reports revealed a lateral ligament injury," BCCI said in a statement. "Shaw will be unavailable for the first Test against Australia in Adelaide.

"He will undergo an intensive rehabilitation program to hasten the recovery and be available for selection at the earliest."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-2018-19-schedule-teams-time-and-venue-177740">India vs Australia 2018-19: Schedule, Squad, Time and Venue</a>

It was a massive blow for India with the promising teenager an almost certain starter in the four-match series after a spectacular debut against West Indies last month.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Update: The medical team is assessing Prithvi Shaw at the moment. He hurt his left ankle while attempting to take a catch at the boundary ropes. Shaw is being taken to the hospital for scans <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/PVyCHBO98e">pic.twitter.com/PVyCHBO98e</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1068297480452759552?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 30, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
UPDATE: Prithvi Shaw ruled out of first Test against Australia in Adelaide. Full details here ---&gt; <a href="https://t.co/bKZRSodVyR">https://t.co/bKZRSodVyR</a> <a href="https://t.co/gqFWUJKxNf">pic.twitter.com/gqFWUJKxNf</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1068372247792934912?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 30, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

India's other opening batsman Lokesh Rahul has struggled for runs and the third option, Murali Vijay, is on the comeback trail after he was dropped following a poor tour of England earlier this year.

Shaw scored an attacking 134 on his debut against West Indies and followed up with a 70 and unbeaten 33 in the second Test against the Caribbean side.

He was also impressive on Thursday with a sparkling 66, hitting 11 boundaries in his 69-ball knock.

India would hope to have him back in the starting lineup for the second Test at Perth, starting on Dec. 14.

India batsman Prithvi Shaw has been ruled out of next week's first Test against Australia after the young opener injured his ankle while fielding during a tour match in Sydney on Friday, according to the country's cricket board (BCCI).

India batsman Prithvi Shaw has been ruled out of next week's first Test against Australia after the young opener injured his ankle while fielding during a tour match in Sydney on Friday, according to the country's cricket board (BCCI). The 19-year-old was taken to hospital for scans after he rolled his left ankle when taking a catch on the deep mid-wicket boundary and tumbled over the rope during the third day of the warm-up contest against an Australia XI. Shaw was chaired off the field by India physiotherapist Patrick Farhart and a support staff member into the away team dressing room at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). "Shaw underwent scans this morning and the reports revealed a lateral ligament injury," BCCI said in a statement. "Shaw will be unavailable for the first Test against Australia in Adelaide. "He will undergo an intensive rehabilitation program to hasten the recovery and be available for selection at the earliest." Also Read: India vs Australia 2018-19: Schedule, Squad, Time and Venue It was a massive blow for India with the promising teenager an almost certain starter in the four-match series after a spectacular debut against West Indies last month. Update: The medical team is assessing Prithvi Shaw at the moment. He hurt his left ankle while attempting to take a catch at the boundary ropes. Shaw is being taken to the hospital for scans #TeamIndia pic.twitter.com/PVyCHBO98e — BCCI (@BCCI) November 30, 2018 × UPDATE: Prithvi Shaw ruled out of first Test against Australia in Adelaide. Full details here ---> https://t.co/bKZRSodVyR pic.twitter.com/gqFWUJKxNf — BCCI (@BCCI) November 30, 2018 × India's other opening batsman Lokesh Rahul has struggled for runs and the third option, Murali Vijay, is on the comeback trail after he was dropped following a poor tour of England earlier this year. Shaw scored an attacking 134 on his debut against West Indies and followed up with a 70 and unbeaten 33 in the second Test against the Caribbean side. He was also impressive on Thursday with a sparkling 66, hitting 11 boundaries in his 69-ball knock. India would hope to have him back in the starting lineup for the second Test at Perth, starting on Dec. 14.

India vs Australia: Prithvi Shaw ruled out of Adelaide Test with ankle injury

Indian captain <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=virat+kohli">Virat Kohli</a> was trolled by cricket fans for wearing shorts&nbsp;at the toss for the warm-up game against Cricket Australia XI ahead of the four-Test series here.

The opening day of the four-day non-first class match against an understrength representative side was washed out by torrential rain.

The picture of Virat Kohli and&nbsp;CA XI captain Sam Whiteman, which was captured during the toss, was tweeted&nbsp;by the official handle of BCCI.

Soon after that fans&nbsp;criticised&nbsp;Kohli for wearing shorts in the 'gentleman's game' and called it&nbsp;disrespectful.

Here is the BCCI's post:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
CA XI have won the toss and will field first <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/J8fb8BJp8x">pic.twitter.com/J8fb8BJp8x</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1067909541377978370?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 28, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

See how the Twitter users commented on this:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Watching Virat Kohli going out to toss with shorts is nothing but disgraceful. I remember the legendary late ML Jaisimha in full whites when he became coach of Hyderabad team. He always felt one should respect the game. Period
— N Jagannath Das_TT (@dassport_TT) <a href="https://twitter.com/dassport_TT/status/1068146588118204416?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 29, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"This @imVkohli bad attitude is showing no any respect for game and their legacy why @bcci @icc @accessonline n other cricket members think about this. Where is #sunilgavaskar who taunted in #Aisacup to Pakistani player for their cap??? What @imVkohli is showing," a twitter handle that goes by the name @VeeG48 wrote.

Another wrote, "Disgraceful and disrespectful... There was time captains used to wear Blazers during toss.... This behavior is absolutely unpardonable...."

The Virat Kohli-led tourists suffered a mini-collapse towards the end, losing their last five wickets for 11 runs to be dismissed for 358, but will be pleased to have got so much time in the middle for their top and middle orders.

India's 19-year-old opening batsman Prithvi Shaw caught the eye with a sparkling 66, hitting 11 boundaries in his 69-ball knock.

While few fans came in support of the skipper.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<a href="https://twitter.com/sanjaymanjrekar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sanjaymanjrekar</a> what was the point to raise the issue of virat kohli wearing shorts during toss time Firstly its unofficial game and its a practice match at that time he might be not aware also whether he is wearing shorts or full pants stop raising small issue
— Parth Dhanesha (@18gazerparth) <a href="https://twitter.com/18gazerparth/status/1068146119727816704?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 29, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The Test series begins in Adelaide on December 6, with further matches in Perth, Melbourne and Sydney over the following month.

Indian captain Virat Kohli was trolled by cricket fans for wearing shorts at the toss for the warm-up game against Cricket Australia XI ahead of the four-Test series here.

Indian captain Virat Kohli was trolled by cricket fans for wearing shorts at the toss for the warm-up game against Cricket Australia XI ahead of the four-Test series here. The opening day of the four-day non-first class match against an understrength representative side was washed out by torrential rain. The picture of Virat Kohli and CA XI captain Sam Whiteman, which was captured during the toss, was tweeted by the official handle of BCCI. Soon after that fans criticised Kohli for wearing shorts in the 'gentleman's game' and called it disrespectful. Here is the BCCI's post: CA XI have won the toss and will field first #TeamIndia pic.twitter.com/J8fb8BJp8x — BCCI (@BCCI) November 28, 2018 × See how the Twitter users commented on this: Watching Virat Kohli going out to toss with shorts is nothing but disgraceful. I remember the legendary late ML Jaisimha in full whites when he became coach of Hyderabad team. He always felt one should respect the game. Period — N Jagannath Das_TT (@dassport_TT) November 29, 2018 × "This @imVkohli bad attitude is showing no any respect for game and their legacy why @bcci @icc @accessonline n other cricket members think about this. Where is #sunilgavaskar who taunted in #Aisacup to Pakistani player for their cap??? What @imVkohli is showing," a twitter handle that goes by the name @VeeG48 wrote. Another wrote, "Disgraceful and disrespectful... There was time captains used to wear Blazers during toss.... This behavior is absolutely unpardonable...." The Virat Kohli-led tourists suffered a mini-collapse towards the end, losing their last five wickets for 11 runs to be dismissed for 358, but will be pleased to have got so much time in the middle for their top and middle orders. India's 19-year-old opening batsman Prithvi Shaw caught the eye with a sparkling 66, hitting 11 boundaries in his 69-ball knock. While few fans came in support of the skipper. @sanjaymanjrekar what was the point to raise the issue of virat kohli wearing shorts during toss time Firstly its unofficial game and its a practice match at that time he might be not aware also whether he is wearing shorts or full pants stop raising small issue — Parth Dhanesha (@18gazerparth) November 29, 2018 × The Test series begins in Adelaide on December 6, with further matches in Perth, Melbourne and Sydney over the following month.

Twitterati troll Virat Kohli for wearing shorts during toss against Australia in warm-up match

Former captain Michael Clarke has slammed attempts to improve Australian cricket's image in the wake of a cheating scandal, insisting the national team "won't win a game" without its infamous abrasive attitude.

A scathing independent review into the ball-tampering scandal released last month revealed a bullying culture within the sport and criticised cricketers for "playing the mongrel" against opponents.&nbsp;

In response, the team produced a so-called Players' Pact, urging Australians to "compete with us, smile with us, fight with us, dream with us".&nbsp;

Test captain Tim Paine has also spoken of shaking opponents' hands before a series and respecting the umpires, in stark contrast to the Australians' previous conduct.&nbsp;

However, the nice-guy approach did not sit well with Clarke, who said winning should be Australia's top priority, regardless of what anyone thought.&nbsp;

"Australian cricket, I think, needs to stop worrying about being liked and start worrying about being respected," he told commercial radio.&nbsp;

"Play tough Australian cricket. Whether we like it or not, that's in our blood." Clarke said fans wanted victory more than they wanted a likeable team and Australia's winning legacy was built on its hard-nosed attitude.&nbsp;

"If you try and walk away from it, we might be the most liked team in the world, we're not going to win shit," he said.&nbsp;

"We won't win a game. Boys and girls want to win." The cheating scandal involved Australian players using sandpaper to alter the flight of the ball in a Test match against South Africa last March at Cape Town's Newlands Stadium.&nbsp;

Coach Darren Lehmann quit in the wake of the controversy and then-captain Steve Smith, deputy David Warner and batsman Cameron Bancroft received lengthy bans.&nbsp;

The affair also claimed the scalps of CA chief executive James Sutherland, chairman David Peever and team performance boss Pat Howard.

The Australians have endured a dire run of form since Cape Town, losing 17 matches out of 24 in all formats. They face a tough home Test series against top-ranked India starting in Adelaide on December 6.

Former captain Michael Clarke has slammed attempts to improve Australian cricket's image in the wake of a cheating scandal, insisting the national team "won't win a game" without its infamous abrasive attitude.

Former captain Michael Clarke has slammed attempts to improve Australian cricket's image in the wake of a cheating scandal, insisting the national team "won't win a game" without its infamous abrasive attitude. A scathing independent review into the ball-tampering scandal released last month revealed a bullying culture within the sport and criticised cricketers for "playing the mongrel" against opponents. In response, the team produced a so-called Players' Pact, urging Australians to "compete with us, smile with us, fight with us, dream with us". Test captain Tim Paine has also spoken of shaking opponents' hands before a series and respecting the umpires, in stark contrast to the Australians' previous conduct. However, the nice-guy approach did not sit well with Clarke, who said winning should be Australia's top priority, regardless of what anyone thought. "Australian cricket, I think, needs to stop worrying about being liked and start worrying about being respected," he told commercial radio. "Play tough Australian cricket. Whether we like it or not, that's in our blood." Clarke said fans wanted victory more than they wanted a likeable team and Australia's winning legacy was built on its hard-nosed attitude. "If you try and walk away from it, we might be the most liked team in the world, we're not going to win shit," he said. "We won't win a game. Boys and girls want to win." The cheating scandal involved Australian players using sandpaper to alter the flight of the ball in a Test match against South Africa last March at Cape Town's Newlands Stadium. Coach Darren Lehmann quit in the wake of the controversy and then-captain Steve Smith, deputy David Warner and batsman Cameron Bancroft received lengthy bans. The affair also claimed the scalps of CA chief executive James Sutherland, chairman David Peever and team performance boss Pat Howard. The Australians have endured a dire run of form since Cape Town, losing 17 matches out of 24 in all formats. They face a tough home Test series against top-ranked India starting in Adelaide on December 6.

Michael Clarke to Australian team: Winning is priority regardless of being nice

Back amongst runs following a prolonged bad patch, Shikhar Dhawan has "moved on" after initially feeling sad about his omission from the Indian Test team for the Australia series.&nbsp;

"Yes, I was a bit sad but I have moved on and I am in a good frame of mind. I am in a happy positive mood. I am enjoying my game. I have got a bit off time and I am going to enjoy my training and get myself fitter. I am happy and once I am happy things go well for me," Dhawan, who was adjudged 'Man of the Series' in the recently concluded T20 series, told 'ESPN Cricinfo'.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-2018-19-schedule-teams-time-and-venue-177740">India vs Australia 2018-19: Schedule, Squad, Time and Venue</a>

The Delhi opener is confident that India will do well in the four-Test series beginning December 6 at Adelaide.&nbsp;

"I think we have got a very good chance to win the series here. We have to play good complete cricket in all three departments whether it's batting, bowling or fielding and also catching. We have to be consistent and then we will have a good chance of beating Australia," said Dhawan, who will be turning 33 in a week's time.&nbsp;

While the World Cup is still six months away, the focus will be on the process for the veteran of 115 ODIs.&nbsp;

"I am going to give my best. I am a big believer in process and once I get it right, other things will follow on its own. Of course, we would like to bring the World Cup back home," he exuded confidence.&nbsp;

What makes him confident about his success in England is his past record in limited overs cricket.&nbsp;

"I have done well in both Champions Trophies in England and with my experience, I hope to score a lot of runs in World Cup and give good starts and sail through so that we can get the Cup back."

Back amongst runs following a prolonged bad patch, Shikhar Dhawan has "moved on" after initially feeling sad about his omission from the Indian Test team for the Australia series.

Back amongst runs following a prolonged bad patch, Shikhar Dhawan has "moved on" after initially feeling sad about his omission from the Indian Test team for the Australia series. "Yes, I was a bit sad but I have moved on and I am in a good frame of mind. I am in a happy positive mood. I am enjoying my game. I have got a bit off time and I am going to enjoy my training and get myself fitter. I am happy and once I am happy things go well for me," Dhawan, who was adjudged 'Man of the Series' in the recently concluded T20 series, told 'ESPN Cricinfo'. India vs Australia 2018-19: Schedule, Squad, Time and Venue The Delhi opener is confident that India will do well in the four-Test series beginning December 6 at Adelaide. "I think we have got a very good chance to win the series here. We have to play good complete cricket in all three departments whether it's batting, bowling or fielding and also catching. We have to be consistent and then we will have a good chance of beating Australia," said Dhawan, who will be turning 33 in a week's time. While the World Cup is still six months away, the focus will be on the process for the veteran of 115 ODIs. "I am going to give my best. I am a big believer in process and once I get it right, other things will follow on its own. Of course, we would like to bring the World Cup back home," he exuded confidence. What makes him confident about his success in England is his past record in limited overs cricket. "I have done well in both Champions Trophies in England and with my experience, I hope to score a lot of runs in World Cup and give good starts and sail through so that we can get the Cup back."

Was a bit sad but moved on: Shikhar Dhawan on Test omission

India have the quality and confidence in their batting ranks to master the extra pace and bounce on Australian wickets and excel across formats, batsman Rohit Sharma said on Monday.

India have never won a Test series Down Under but fancy their chances against an Australian team yet to recover from a ball-tampering scandal that led to bans for former captain Steve Smith, opener David Warner and batsman Cameron Bancroft.

"This is one place we want to leave our mark on and do well as an unit," Rohit told reporters in Brisbane where the three-match Twenty20 series kicks off on Wednesday.

"The last time we came here there were a few close games. We want to make it count this time around. There is real good feeling in the group across all three formats. The motive of the team is to try and seize all the moments and try and win.

"When you do well in places like Australia you feel good as a team. Thinking about the World Cup ahead it can only give you confidence winning in places like Australia."

The Twenty20 Internationals will be followed by a four-Test series beginning in Adelaide on Dec. 6.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-2018-19-schedule-teams-time-and-venue-177740">India vs Australia 2018-19: Schedule, Squad, Time and Venue</a>

Gabba, which Rohit considers to be Australia's fastest surface, does not host any Test but Perth, known for assisting the quicks, is the venue for the second match while Melbourne and Sydney host the last two Tests.

"India have always played either at Perth or Brisbane," Rohit said. "This time around we are playing at Perth and not Brisbane. Last time we played at Brisbane but not Perth.

"Those two conditions are obviously very challenging and Australia specially have tall bowlers who extract bounce and use it to their advantage. Indian batsmen generally are not that tall. It's not that easy for us.

"But all the guys are determined to change things around this time. It will be a challenge but we are ready to accept the challenge."

Rohit has scored heavily in the limited-overs matches in Australia and his strong backfoot play earned him a place in India's Test squad after being dropped following modest returns in South Africa earlier this year.

The elegant right-hander said the extra bounce would suit his batting as he seeks to cement his place in the Test squad.

"The good bounce allows me to play my game because I have grown up playing on cement pitches back home," Rohit added.

"I have done well in limited overs, but the challenge obviously is red ball cricket, which right now I am not thinking of, just want to do well in the T20 format and take it from there."

India have the quality and confidence in their batting ranks to master the extra pace and bounce on Australian wickets and excel across formats, batsman Rohit Sharma said on Monday.

India have the quality and confidence in their batting ranks to master the extra pace and bounce on Australian wickets and excel across formats, batsman Rohit Sharma said on Monday. India have never won a Test series Down Under but fancy their chances against an Australian team yet to recover from a ball-tampering scandal that led to bans for former captain Steve Smith, opener David Warner and batsman Cameron Bancroft. "This is one place we want to leave our mark on and do well as an unit," Rohit told reporters in Brisbane where the three-match Twenty20 series kicks off on Wednesday. "The last time we came here there were a few close games. We want to make it count this time around. There is real good feeling in the group across all three formats. The motive of the team is to try and seize all the moments and try and win. "When you do well in places like Australia you feel good as a team. Thinking about the World Cup ahead it can only give you confidence winning in places like Australia." The Twenty20 Internationals will be followed by a four-Test series beginning in Adelaide on Dec. 6. India vs Australia 2018-19: Schedule, Squad, Time and Venue Gabba, which Rohit considers to be Australia's fastest surface, does not host any Test but Perth, known for assisting the quicks, is the venue for the second match while Melbourne and Sydney host the last two Tests. "India have always played either at Perth or Brisbane," Rohit said. "This time around we are playing at Perth and not Brisbane. Last time we played at Brisbane but not Perth. "Those two conditions are obviously very challenging and Australia specially have tall bowlers who extract bounce and use it to their advantage. Indian batsmen generally are not that tall. It's not that easy for us. "But all the guys are determined to change things around this time. It will be a challenge but we are ready to accept the challenge." Rohit has scored heavily in the limited-overs matches in Australia and his strong backfoot play earned him a place in India's Test squad after being dropped following modest returns in South Africa earlier this year. The elegant right-hander said the extra bounce would suit his batting as he seeks to cement his place in the Test squad. "The good bounce allows me to play my game because I have grown up playing on cement pitches back home," Rohit added. "I have done well in limited overs, but the challenge obviously is red ball cricket, which right now I am not thinking of, just want to do well in the T20 format and take it from there."

'Want to leave our mark on and do well as an unit' in Australia, says Rohit Sharma

Coach Ravi Shastri vowed Sunday India will "take no prisoners" in their quest to win a Test series in Australia for the first time, but cautioned against underestimating the struggling home team.

India play four Tests and three one-day internationals from early December, with three Twenty20s before that, starting in Brisbane on Wednesday.

Despite Australia's form nosediving since the ball-tampering scandal in South Africa in March resulted in bans for Steve Smith and David Warner, the former spin great doesn't believe they have lost their aura.

"I don't think so," he said. "I always believe no team is weak at home.&nbsp;

"We might have three or four players not playing when a team comes to India but God forbid if anyone says it is a weak Indian team because you will be surprised."

Shastri didn't want to be drawn on Australia's new "friendlier" approach to playing cricket under Justin Langer, which has seen them tone down the confrontational style that brought then so much success.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/faf-du-plessis-suggests-australian-team-to-avoid-confrontation-with-virat-kohli-177841">Faf du Plessis suggests Australian team </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/faf-du-plessis-suggests-australian-team-to-avoid-confrontation-with-virat-kohli-177841">to</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/faf-du-plessis-suggests-australian-team-to-avoid-confrontation-with-virat-kohli-177841"> avoid confrontation with Virat Kohli</a>

But he has instructed his team to play hard but fair.

"We will be taking no prisoners, but are focusing on our game rather than what is happening outside," he said.

South Africa captain Faf du Plessis, who has fed off the Australian "in-your-face" attitude in recent years, urged them last week not to totally abandon this aspect of their game.

His Indian counterpart Virat Kohli is another who has thrived previously on the combative rivalry.

Shastri did not believe the hosts' new, polite approach would affect his skipper.

"He won't take his foot off the gas that is for sure," he warned.

"He loves coming to Australia, he's passionate about his game and the pitches here suit his style of play."

While India have maintained home recent supremacy with a&nbsp;thrashing of the West Indies in Tests (2-0), ODIs (3-1) and T20s (3-0), they have not been as dominant away.

They lost 2-1 in Tests to South Africa and were then outplayed in England 4-1.&nbsp;

"It's about seizing the moment. If you look at those Test matches (overseas), the scoreline doesn't really tell you the whole story," said Shastri.

"There were some very tight Test matches and we lost some big moments badly which cost us the series.

"It could have been just an hour in a session over four days which made all the difference -- you have to learn from that."

Coach Ravi Shastri vowed Sunday India will "take no prisoners" in their quest to win a Test series in Australia for the first time, but cautioned against underestimating the struggling home team.

Coach Ravi Shastri vowed Sunday India will "take no prisoners" in their quest to win a Test series in Australia for the first time, but cautioned against underestimating the struggling home team. India play four Tests and three one-day internationals from early December, with three Twenty20s before that, starting in Brisbane on Wednesday. Despite Australia's form nosediving since the ball-tampering scandal in South Africa in March resulted in bans for Steve Smith and David Warner, the former spin great doesn't believe they have lost their aura. "I don't think so," he said. "I always believe no team is weak at home. "We might have three or four players not playing when a team comes to India but God forbid if anyone says it is a weak Indian team because you will be surprised." Shastri didn't want to be drawn on Australia's new "friendlier" approach to playing cricket under Justin Langer, which has seen them tone down the confrontational style that brought then so much success. Faf du Plessis suggests Australian team to avoid confrontation with Virat Kohli But he has instructed his team to play hard but fair. "We will be taking no prisoners, but are focusing on our game rather than what is happening outside," he said. South Africa captain Faf du Plessis, who has fed off the Australian "in-your-face" attitude in recent years, urged them last week not to totally abandon this aspect of their game. His Indian counterpart Virat Kohli is another who has thrived previously on the combative rivalry. Shastri did not believe the hosts' new, polite approach would affect his skipper. "He won't take his foot off the gas that is for sure," he warned. "He loves coming to Australia, he's passionate about his game and the pitches here suit his style of play." While India have maintained home recent supremacy with a thrashing of the West Indies in Tests (2-0), ODIs (3-1) and T20s (3-0), they have not been as dominant away. They lost 2-1 in Tests to South Africa and were then outplayed in England 4-1. "It's about seizing the moment. If you look at those Test matches (overseas), the scoreline doesn't really tell you the whole story," said Shastri. "There were some very tight Test matches and we lost some big moments badly which cost us the series. "It could have been just an hour in a session over four days which made all the difference -- you have to learn from that."

Ravi Shastri says India 'taking no prisoners' in Australia

test-series-0

Test Series, News on Test Series, stories on Test Series, articles on Test Series, Test Series stories at Wion, Test Series news, Test Series latest news

test series-0