IPL knockout games come with high pressure and high rewards, and sometimes batters fail terribly under such high pressure. Here are 5 batters who got out for ducks when their teams needed them most. Cricket | Sports | Photos 

Big names, Bigger occasions and Biggest failures: Top players with most ducks in IPL Playoffs

Cricket Australia has backed the players' individual decisions as they face tough coming weeks ahead of the World Test Championship (WTC) final against South Africa. In a statement released on Tuesday (May 13), the apex body of Australian Cricket vows to back the individual decisions as players are contract-tied with the Indian Premier League (IPL). In case the players included in the WTC final squad commit to playing in the IPL 2025 and reach the final, they will have only one week to prepare, including travel.
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">CA to support players' decision</h2>
"Cricket Australia will support players in their individual decisions whether to return to India or not," CA said in a statement.
"Team management will work through the preparation implications for the World Test Championship final for those players who choose to play in the remaining IPL matches.
"We are maintaining communication with the Australian Government and BCCI around security arrangements and safety."
The IPL Playoffs are scheduled to start from May 29, with the final taking place on June 3.
On Tuesday, Cricket Australia announced the squad for the WTC final with the likes of Pat Cummins, Travis Head and Mitchell Starc still involved. While Cummins and Head (part of the WTC final squad) won&rsquo;t play in the IPL 2025 Playoffs and final, they will have a decision in hand with only three more games remaining in the league season for SunRisers Hyderabad.
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-releases-ipl-2025-revised-schedule-tournament-to-restart-on-may-17-final-in-june-9062057" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">BCCI releases IPL 2025 revised schedule, tournament to restart on May 17, final in June</a>
However, that won&rsquo;t be the case for Josh Hazlewood, Josh Inglis and Mitchell Starc as their IPL sides are destined to play in the Playoffs. These players are also named in the 15-man squad for the WTC final by Cricket Australia.
So if any player from the trio features in the IPL final, they will have only seven days to prepare before the WTC summit clash starts at Lord&rsquo;s Cricket Ground against South Africa.

In case the Australian players included in the WTC final squad commit to playing in the IPL 2025 and reach the final, they will have only one week to prepare. World | Cricket | Sports

Cricket Australia has backed the players' individual decisions as they face tough coming weeks ahead of the World Test Championship (WTC) final against South Africa. In a statement released on Tuesday (May 13), the apex body of Australian Cricket vows to back the individual decisions as players are contract-tied with the Indian Premier League (IPL). In case the players included in the WTC final squad commit to playing in the IPL 2025 and reach the final, they will have only one week to prepare, including travel. CA to support players' decision "Cricket Australia will support players in their individual decisions whether to return to India or not," CA said in a statement. "Team management will work through the preparation implications for the World Test Championship final for those players who choose to play in the remaining IPL matches. "We are maintaining communication with the Australian Government and BCCI around security arrangements and safety." The IPL Playoffs are scheduled to start from May 29, with the final taking place on June 3. On Tuesday, Cricket Australia announced the squad for the WTC final with the likes of Pat Cummins, Travis Head and Mitchell Starc still involved. While Cummins and Head (part of the WTC final squad) won’t play in the IPL 2025 Playoffs and final, they will have a decision in hand with only three more games remaining in the league season for SunRisers Hyderabad. ALSO READ | BCCI releases IPL 2025 revised schedule, tournament to restart on May 17, final in June However, that won’t be the case for Josh Hazlewood, Josh Inglis and Mitchell Starc as their IPL sides are destined to play in the Playoffs. These players are also named in the 15-man squad for the WTC final by Cricket Australia. So if any player from the trio features in the IPL final, they will have only seven days to prepare before the WTC summit clash starts at Lord’s Cricket Ground against South Africa.

'Will support players': Cricket Australia backs individual decisions ahead of rescheduled IPL 2025

Australia batter <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/travis-head" rel="dofollow">Travis Head</a>&rsquo;s &lsquo;three-word&rsquo; praise for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rohit-sharma" rel="dofollow">Rohit Sharma</a>, who recently <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rohit-sharma-announces-retirement-from-test-cricket-9045477" rel="dofollow">announced his Test retirement</a>, has won the internet. Head and Rohit share an on-field camaraderie that is loved by everyone off it, with the Aussie white-ball opener taking it to his social media handle X to post for Rohit.
Amidst escalating cross-border tensions between India and Pakistan, Rohit shocked the cricket world with a Test retirement call just before India&rsquo;s first international assignment post-IPL 2025 &ndash; the away Test tour of England. Rohit was earlier said to be retaining his place as Team India captain for England Tests starting June 20 in Leeds; however, the selectors decided against sticking with him as the Test captain, forcing a rushed retirement.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/foreign-players-to-head-home-as-panic-grips-ipl-2025-amid-ongoing-india-pakistan-tensions-9052446" rel="dofollow">Foreign players to head home as panic grips IPL 2025 amid ongoing India-Pakistan tensions</a>
Now that Rohit is done with Tests and T20Is, having already announced his retirement from the shortest format following winning the T20 World Cup in the Americas last year, the One-Day format is the only one he will continue to play. Although he has no ambitions of doing away with his IPL commitments for the Mumbai Indians, Rohit&rsquo;s cricket future hangs by a thin thread.
Plenty of tributes came in from the cricketing fraternity, let alone from India only, with former, current and upcoming cricketers sending in best wishes. One included from Rohit&rsquo;s India teammate Abhishek Sharma, who wrote, &lsquo;Thank you for everything big brother&rsquo;, to which Head reposted it, writing, &lsquo;What a player&rsquo;.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-magysds6-o4avx67y-mwbsl2dq">
What a player 🙌 <a href="https://t.co/rMnUvam0Xw">https://t.co/rMnUvam0Xw</a>
&mdash; Travis head (@TravisHead24) <a href="https://twitter.com/TravisHead24/status/1920775046336762078?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 9, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2>No bad-blood</h2>
Since Rohit Sharma took over the all-format captaincy from Virat Kohli in late 2022, India played four ICC finals, losing two &ndash; the WTC Final 2023 and the final of the home ODI World Cup at home, to Australia, and the sole reason behind it was Travis Head.
While Head slammed his maiden WTC Final hundred against India at the Oval, scoring a match-winning 163 in the first innings, his 137 in the final against the Men in Blue broke a billion hearts. The left-handed opener came close to completing a hat-trick of match-winning knocks against India in ICC events (during the T20 WC league game), scoring 76, but failed to help his team cross the line in that game.
Even during Rohit&rsquo;s final Test series against Australia Down Under, Head was the top run-getter, scoring 448 runs in five matches, averaging 56. He hit two centuries, including 152 in the third Test at the Gabba in Brisbane. Australia completed a 3-1 win over India, winning the BGT for the first time in a decade.

Amidst escalating cross-border tensions between India and Pakistan, Rohit shocked the cricket world with a Test retirement call just before England series. Sports Cricket

Australia batter Travis Head’s ‘three-word’ praise for Rohit Sharma, who recently announced his Test retirement, has won the internet. Head and Rohit share an on-field camaraderie that is loved by everyone off it, with the Aussie white-ball opener taking it to his social media handle X to post for Rohit. Amidst escalating cross-border tensions between India and Pakistan, Rohit shocked the cricket world with a Test retirement call just before India’s first international assignment post-IPL 2025 – the away Test tour of England. Rohit was earlier said to be retaining his place as Team India captain for England Tests starting June 20 in Leeds; however, the selectors decided against sticking with him as the Test captain, forcing a rushed retirement. Also read | Foreign players to head home as panic grips IPL 2025 amid ongoing India-Pakistan tensions Now that Rohit is done with Tests and T20Is, having already announced his retirement from the shortest format following winning the T20 World Cup in the Americas last year, the One-Day format is the only one he will continue to play. Although he has no ambitions of doing away with his IPL commitments for the Mumbai Indians, Rohit’s cricket future hangs by a thin thread. Plenty of tributes came in from the cricketing fraternity, let alone from India only, with former, current and upcoming cricketers sending in best wishes. One included from Rohit’s India teammate Abhishek Sharma, who wrote, ‘Thank you for everything big brother’, to which Head reposted it, writing, ‘What a player’. What a player 🙌 https://t.co/rMnUvam0Xw — Travis head (@TravisHead24) May 9, 2025 No bad-blood Since Rohit Sharma took over the all-format captaincy from Virat Kohli in late 2022, India played four ICC finals, losing two – the WTC Final 2023 and the final of the home ODI World Cup at home, to Australia, and the sole reason behind it was Travis Head. While Head slammed his maiden WTC Final hundred against India at the Oval, scoring a match-winning 163 in the first innings, his 137 in the final against the Men in Blue broke a billion hearts. The left-handed opener came close to completing a hat-trick of match-winning knocks against India in ICC events (during the T20 WC league game), scoring 76, but failed to help his team cross the line in that game. Even during Rohit’s final Test series against Australia Down Under, Head was the top run-getter, scoring 448 runs in five matches, averaging 56. He hit two centuries, including 152 in the third Test at the Gabba in Brisbane. Australia completed a 3-1 win over India, winning the BGT for the first time in a decade.

Travis Head’s ‘three-word’ praise for Rohit Sharma on Test retirement

With the WTC Final 2025 on the horizon, here are 7 players who top-scored in the 23-25 WTC Cycle, including Root, Yashasvi Jaiswal and Travis Head. Sports Cricket Photos

WTC 2023-2025: Top 7 batters revealed! No Kohli, no Rohit, just one Indian star

Opening partnerships often set the tone of batting in ODI cricket. Let's delve into the Top 6 opening partnerships in ODI cricket. Sports Photos 

Unstoppable duos in ODI cricket: 6 opening partnerships that left bowlers clueless

Batsmen like Travis Head, Abhishek Sharma, Phil Salt among several others have taken power-hitting during powerplay in the ongoing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/indian-premier-league">Indian Premier League</a> (IPL) 2025 to next level.
While fans are soaking in the fun in the stadiums and in front of television sets, it came as a surprise when umpires suddenly decided to check the bats of Rajasthan Royals' Shimron Hetmyer and Royal Challengers Bengaluru' <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/phil-salt">Phil Salt</a> during their match in Jaipur on Sunday (April 14).
Meanwhile in the evening game between Delhi Capitals and Mumbai Indians on same day, umpires checked Mumbai Indians' captain&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/hardik-pandya" rel="dofollow">Hardik Pandya</a>&rsquo;s bat as well. Umpires were seen using a gauge to check Hardik's bat width.
Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-psl-2025-for-a-second-time-in-a-year-pakistani-bowler-usman-tariq-reported-for-suspect-bowling-action-8961705">PSL 2025: For a second time in a year, Pakistani bowler Usman Tariq reported for suspect bowling action</a>
<div class="publive-dynamic-container dynamic-container"></div>
<h2>Why did umpires checked the bats?</h2>
The rules are meant to bolster <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/bcci">BCCI</a> policies aimed at curbing player advantages in this highly competitive batting environment.&nbsp;Now, the BCCI has given power to the match officials to inspect on-the-spot any bat which they feel is necessary, which is a major shift from past seasons where such scrutiny took place in the team&rsquo;s dressing rooms. &nbsp;
See video of umpire checking Hardik's bat:
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
🔥 Unreal Moment in IPL 2025! 🔥 Umpire checks Hardik Pandya's bat before his explosive entry! 💪🏏 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2025?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2025</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HardikPandya?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HardikPandya</a> <a href="https://t.co/KoSe5HAVq0">pic.twitter.com/KoSe5HAVq0</a>
&mdash; Cricket Chronicles (@CricketChroni) <a href="https://twitter.com/CricketChroni/status/1911640707946954824?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 14, 2025</a></blockquote>

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

&ldquo;The umpires keep a house-shaped bat gauge. If the bat passes through that gauge, it is deemed acceptable. We have all performed bat checks before the start of the innings inside the dressing room. The players hand over their willows and the check is done,&rdquo; said a former BCCI umpire who has officiated over 100 IPL games to news agency PTI.
&ldquo;Now the question is, did any player provide one bat for check and used another on the field? If that has happened, then this protocol is welcome. The players walk around with a number of bats and while the weight is different, the height, width (bat face), depth (middle of blade), and width of the edge must comply within the bounds prescribed by ICC,&rdquo; the umpire further added.&nbsp;
<h2>What are the rules on bat sizes?</h2>
According to ICC guidelines, certain parameters with regards to measurements need to be followed. The width of the bat face should not be more than 4.25 inches (10.79 cm) and the middle of the bat (thickness) should not exceed 2.64 inches (6.7 cm).
Furthermore, edge width must not be more than 1.56 inches (4 cm) and the total height of the bat from the handle down to the base cannot be more than 38 inches (96.4 cm).
There has been no official word from the BCCI regarding whether any violation of bat dimension contradictions have led to these random checks.
The consequences of bat dimensions in regards to modern cricket today is actually severe considering that even a poor shot has the potential to sail a long way into the stands of the stadium.&nbsp;This IPL season has already recorded 525 sixes struck in 29 matches, which is a new record, with Nicholas Pooran leading the charge with 31 of those.

Sports: There has been no official word from the BCCI regarding whether any violation of bat dimension contradictions have led to these random checks

Batsmen like Travis Head, Abhishek Sharma, Phil Salt among several others have taken power-hitting during powerplay in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 to next level. While fans are soaking in the fun in the stadiums and in front of television sets, it came as a surprise when umpires suddenly decided to check the bats of Rajasthan Royals' Shimron Hetmyer and Royal Challengers Bengaluru' Phil Salt during their match in Jaipur on Sunday (April 14). Meanwhile in the evening game between Delhi Capitals and Mumbai Indians on same day, umpires checked Mumbai Indians' captain Hardik Pandya’s bat as well. Umpires were seen using a gauge to check Hardik's bat width. Also Read: PSL 2025: For a second time in a year, Pakistani bowler Usman Tariq reported for suspect bowling action Why did umpires checked the bats? The rules are meant to bolster BCCI policies aimed at curbing player advantages in this highly competitive batting environment. Now, the BCCI has given power to the match officials to inspect on-the-spot any bat which they feel is necessary, which is a major shift from past seasons where such scrutiny took place in the team’s dressing rooms. See video of umpire checking Hardik's bat: 🔥 Unreal Moment in IPL 2025! 🔥 Umpire checks Hardik Pandya's bat before his explosive entry! 💪🏏 #IPL2025 #HardikPandya pic.twitter.com/KoSe5HAVq0 — Cricket Chronicles (@CricketChroni) April 14, 2025 “The umpires keep a house-shaped bat gauge. If the bat passes through that gauge, it is deemed acceptable. We have all performed bat checks before the start of the innings inside the dressing room. The players hand over their willows and the check is done,” said a former BCCI umpire who has officiated over 100 IPL games to news agency PTI. “Now the question is, did any player provide one bat for check and used another on the field? If that has happened, then this protocol is welcome. The players walk around with a number of bats and while the weight is different, the height, width (bat face), depth (middle of blade), and width of the edge must comply within the bounds prescribed by ICC,” the umpire further added. What are the rules on bat sizes? According to ICC guidelines, certain parameters with regards to measurements need to be followed. The width of the bat face should not be more than 4.25 inches (10.79 cm) and the middle of the bat (thickness) should not exceed 2.64 inches (6.7 cm). Furthermore, edge width must not be more than 1.56 inches (4 cm) and the total height of the bat from the handle down to the base cannot be more than 38 inches (96.4 cm). There has been no official word from the BCCI regarding whether any violation of bat dimension contradictions have led to these random checks. The consequences of bat dimensions in regards to modern cricket today is actually severe considering that even a poor shot has the potential to sail a long way into the stands of the stadium. This IPL season has already recorded 525 sixes struck in 29 matches, which is a new record, with Nicholas Pooran leading the charge with 31 of those.

IPL 2025 | Mystery checks: Here's why umpires are randomly checking players' bat. Know More

Karun Nair has been the talk of town for quite some time now. His astronomical run in domestic 50-ver tournament Vijay Hazare Trophy led to the murmurs of him potentially being selected for India's Champions Trophy 2025 squad but it couldn't happen. The batter, however, didn't lose hope and got to play his first IPL match on Sunday (Apr 13) after nearly three years.
In his first outing for Delhi Capitals, Nair was on fire as he smacked 89 off 40 balls with 12 fours and five sixes to his name. It was not only his first IPL match in nearly 1,000 days but first fifty in nearly seven years as well.
Also Read - <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-ipl-2025-watch-mi-vs-dc-clash-heats-up-not-just-bumrah-vs-nair-but-man-vs-woman-fight-in-stands-8961520" aria-label="IPL 2025 | WATCH: MI vs DC clash heats up &mdash; not just Bumrah vs Nair, but man vs woman in stands">IPL 2025 | WATCH: MI vs DC clash heats up &mdash; not just Bumrah vs Nair, but man vs woman in stands</a>
Nair's last fifty had come 2,520 ago for Punjab Kings against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on May 20, 2018 - it is the longest gap between two fifties in IPL history. In Nair defence, however, the batter only played six times during those seven years in exile.
On the second spot of the same list is SunRisers Hyderabad's (SRH) explosive batter Travis Head. The Aussie, a menace name for the bowlers since last couple of years, had went without a fifty in IPL for nearly seven years as well. The difference between his two fifties in IPL is 2,516 days.
After scoring a fifty for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in 2017, Head hit a fifty on May 7 - his last till 2024. The next fifty came for SRH on March 27 against MI. Aussie, however, didn't play in the IPL for all that time and hence the gap.
As for the match between DC and MI, Mumbai held their nerves amid Nair's onslaught and won the match 12 runs. Asked to bat first, MI put up 205 on board and DC were going strong, needing 93 in 60 balls with nine wickets in hand.
Nair's wicket then started a collapse and DC were bowled out for 193 in 19 overs - losing the match by 12 runs.

Nair's last fifty had come 2,520 ago for Punjab Kings against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on May 20, 2018 - it is the longest gap between two fifties in IPL history. cricket sports

Karun Nair has been the talk of town for quite some time now. His astronomical run in domestic 50-ver tournament Vijay Hazare Trophy led to the murmurs of him potentially being selected for India's Champions Trophy 2025 squad but it couldn't happen. The batter, however, didn't lose hope and got to play his first IPL match on Sunday (Apr 13) after nearly three years. In his first outing for Delhi Capitals, Nair was on fire as he smacked 89 off 40 balls with 12 fours and five sixes to his name. It was not only his first IPL match in nearly 1,000 days but first fifty in nearly seven years as well. Also Read - IPL 2025 | WATCH: MI vs DC clash heats up — not just Bumrah vs Nair, but man vs woman in stands Nair's last fifty had come 2,520 ago for Punjab Kings against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on May 20, 2018 - it is the longest gap between two fifties in IPL history. In Nair defence, however, the batter only played six times during those seven years in exile. On the second spot of the same list is SunRisers Hyderabad's (SRH) explosive batter Travis Head. The Aussie, a menace name for the bowlers since last couple of years, had went without a fifty in IPL for nearly seven years as well. The difference between his two fifties in IPL is 2,516 days. After scoring a fifty for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in 2017, Head hit a fifty on May 7 - his last till 2024. The next fifty came for SRH on March 27 against MI. Aussie, however, didn't play in the IPL for all that time and hence the gap. As for the match between DC and MI, Mumbai held their nerves amid Nair's onslaught and won the match 12 runs. Asked to bat first, MI put up 205 on board and DC were going strong, needing 93 in 60 balls with nine wickets in hand. Nair's wicket then started a collapse and DC were bowled out for 193 in 19 overs - losing the match by 12 runs.

Before 89 vs MI, Karun Nair's last IPL fifty had come 2,520 days ago and next is Travis Head with gap of 2,516 days between two fifties

SunRisers Hyderabad vs Punjab Kings in IPL 2025 was an all-time classic for several reasons; it was a run feast with nearly 500 runs hit in a single T20 game and crowd favourite <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/abhishek-sharma" rel="dofollow">Abhishek Sharma</a> storming his way into the history books with his match-winning 141 off 55 balls, but something else too caught everyone&rsquo;s attention - a mid-pitch banter between three Australian superstars, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/glenn-maxwell" rel="dofollow">Glenn Maxwell</a>, Travis Head and Marcus Stoinis, during the run chase. &nbsp;
Punjab scored 245 for six in the first innings, thanks to a brilliant 82 off 36 from captain Shreyas Iyer and a late blitz from Stoinis, but even that wasn&rsquo;t enough for them to secure two crucial points as the hosts completed the run chase with nine balls and eight wickets to spare, creating a record. &nbsp;
Meanwhile, midway through the run chase, Head, who surprisingly played second fiddle to Abhishek, got into a heated on-field banter with his national teammates Maxwell and Stoinis.
The incident unfolded in the ninth over of the second innings after Head had hit Maxwell for two consecutive sixes; Maxwell threw one back to Head following a dot ball on the next delivery, which irked him, leading to a confrontation. Just as the tension rose, Maxwell&rsquo;s Punjab teammate Stoinis joined the pair in the middle, with the on-field umpires rushing to the spot to separate the two. &nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/srh-vs-pbks-abhishek-sharma-enters-history-books-with-highest-score-by-an-indian-in-ipl-8956639" rel="dofollow">SRH vs PBKS: Abhishek Sharma enters history books with highest score by an Indian in IPL</a>
<h3>Watch Video -&nbsp;</h3>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m9feaeyl-loaqhuke-iw34ajgy">
Heat moment between Glenn Maxwell and Travis Head. 📸: <a href="https://twitter.com/StarSportsIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@StarSportsIndia</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SRHvPBKS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SRHvPBKS</a> <a href="https://t.co/bjPnOPyhms">pic.twitter.com/bjPnOPyhms</a>
&mdash; CricAsh (@ash_cric) <a href="https://twitter.com/ash_cric/status/1911103211861065747?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 12, 2025</a></blockquote>
Although all three exchanged words in the middle, it looked like healthy banter from a distance, which the Aussie confirmed in a chat with the broadcaster after the game. &nbsp;
"It's all fun. I think they probably bring the best and the worst out of you when you know each other and play with each other so much. So, yeah, a bit of friendly banter between us, but it's all good. I got to put up with them at home, so nothing to it,&rdquo; Head said after the game.&nbsp;
<h2>Abhishek enters record books&nbsp;</h2>
The SRH vs PBKS IPL 2025 game revolved around Abhishek Sharma&rsquo;s whirlwind knock of 141 &ndash; the highest individual score by an Indian in IPL history. The left-handed opener hit 10 sixes and 14 fours in his monumental inning, which helped SRH complete the second-highest successful run chase in IPL.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cricket-ipl-2025-srh-pbks-what-is-the-story-behind-abhishek-sharma-viral-note-celebration-travis-head-reveals-8956880" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025: What's the story behind Abhishek Sharma's viral 'note celebration?' Head reveals</a>
Abhishek is now the third-highest individual scorer in IPL history after Chris Gayle (175*) and Brendon McCullum (158*). &nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Although all three exchanged words in the middle, it looked like healthy banter from a distance, which Head confirmed after the game.  India news, Cricket, Sports

SunRisers Hyderabad vs Punjab Kings in IPL 2025 was an all-time classic for several reasons; it was a run feast with nearly 500 runs hit in a single T20 game and crowd favourite Abhishek Sharma storming his way into the history books with his match-winning 141 off 55 balls, but something else too caught everyone’s attention - a mid-pitch banter between three Australian superstars, Glenn Maxwell, Travis Head and Marcus Stoinis, during the run chase. Punjab scored 245 for six in the first innings, thanks to a brilliant 82 off 36 from captain Shreyas Iyer and a late blitz from Stoinis, but even that wasn’t enough for them to secure two crucial points as the hosts completed the run chase with nine balls and eight wickets to spare, creating a record. Meanwhile, midway through the run chase, Head, who surprisingly played second fiddle to Abhishek, got into a heated on-field banter with his national teammates Maxwell and Stoinis. The incident unfolded in the ninth over of the second innings after Head had hit Maxwell for two consecutive sixes; Maxwell threw one back to Head following a dot ball on the next delivery, which irked him, leading to a confrontation. Just as the tension rose, Maxwell’s Punjab teammate Stoinis joined the pair in the middle, with the on-field umpires rushing to the spot to separate the two. Also read | SRH vs PBKS: Abhishek Sharma enters history books with highest score by an Indian in IPL Watch Video - Heat moment between Glenn Maxwell and Travis Head. 📸: @StarSportsIndia | #SRHvPBKS pic.twitter.com/bjPnOPyhms — CricAsh (@ash_cric) April 12, 2025 Although all three exchanged words in the middle, it looked like healthy banter from a distance, which the Aussie confirmed in a chat with the broadcaster after the game. "It's all fun. I think they probably bring the best and the worst out of you when you know each other and play with each other so much. So, yeah, a bit of friendly banter between us, but it's all good. I got to put up with them at home, so nothing to it,” Head said after the game. Abhishek enters record books The SRH vs PBKS IPL 2025 game revolved around Abhishek Sharma’s whirlwind knock of 141 – the highest individual score by an Indian in IPL history. The left-handed opener hit 10 sixes and 14 fours in his monumental inning, which helped SRH complete the second-highest successful run chase in IPL. Also read | IPL 2025: What's the story behind Abhishek Sharma's viral 'note celebration?' Head reveals Abhishek is now the third-highest individual scorer in IPL history after Chris Gayle (175*) and Brendon McCullum (158*). (With inputs from agencies)

Watch Viral Video: Aussie star trio indulge in mid-pitch banter during IPL 2025 classic

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/abhishek-sharma" rel="dofollow">Abhishek Sharma</a> is all over the internet for his viral &lsquo;note celebration&rsquo; against Punjab Kings in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ipl-2025" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025</a>. The left-handed SRH opener scored a stunning 141 off 55 balls while chasing (hitting ten sixes and 14 fours), registering the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/srh-vs-pbks-abhishek-sharma-enters-history-books-with-highest-score-by-an-indian-in-ipl-8956639" rel="dofollow">highest individual score by an Indian in the history of this league</a>. His monumental knock floored PBKS as SRH chased 245 inside the 19th over, completing the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-fiery-abhishek-steers-srh-to-eight-wicket-win-over-punjab-kings-8955952" rel="dofollow">second-most successful run chase in this tournament</a>.
His opening partner, Travis Head, reveals what went behind Abhishek's infamous note celebration the other night.
Head and Abhishek were at the forefront of the chase at home, smacking PBKS bowlers with utter disdain. Head faced off the new ball cautiously, only for Abhishek to go all out in his turn. The Indian opener left none, hammering even the pacers, including Punjab&rsquo;s overseas seamer Marco Jansen, for nearly 40 runs in his two overs. Such was the plight that PBKS captain Shreyas Iyer had to bring in batter Shashank Singh to bowl his part-timers inside the first ten overs, as everyone else was leaking runs at an embarrassing rate.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m9f9qu59-o0yyyiur-vvvw70hn">
𝐁𝐄𝐀𝐒𝐓 𝐌𝐎𝐃𝐄: 🔛 🎥 Catch a glimpse of how Abhishek Sharma raced towards a record knock of an explosive 141 (55) 🧡🔥 Updates ▶ <a href="https://t.co/RTe7RlYbGY">https://t.co/RTe7RlYbGY</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TATAIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TATAIPL</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SRHvPBKS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SRHvPBKS</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/SunRisers?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SunRisers</a> <a href="https://t.co/8vjvkKYPMS">pic.twitter.com/8vjvkKYPMS</a>
&mdash; IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/1911114601120616927?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 12, 2025</a></blockquote>
While Abhishek kept knocking off each ball to the boundary, Head was happy witnessing history unfolding at the other end. Having shared, batted and spent enough time since playing together at SRH, Head explained the story behind Abhishek&rsquo;s note celebration. &nbsp;
Following SRH&rsquo;s eight-wicket win against Punjab - their second this season and perhaps a needed one, Head revealed Abhishek had this paper folded in his pocket for the past several games but finally pulled it out on Saturday. &nbsp;&nbsp;
&ldquo;The note has been in the pocket of Abhishek Sharma for 6 games, glad it came out tonight,&rdquo; Head revealed in a chat with the broadcaster after the game.&nbsp;
<h2>Abhishek&rsquo;s Wonder Night in IPL 2025&nbsp;</h2>
Abhishek began aggressively in the side&rsquo;s tournament opener against the Rajasthan Royals but failed to convert his starts to big scores in the upcoming few games.&nbsp;
Upbeat about performing well and returning among runs, the left-handed batter picked the PBKS game to silence his critics, and he did so handsomely.&nbsp;
Alongside Head, Abhishek stitched a 171-run stand for the first wicket in just over 12 overs, completing his maiden IPL hundred a few balls later.
Supremely proud of his performance, he celebrated it by pulling out a note, which read, &lsquo;THIS IS FOR THE ORANGE ARMY&rsquo;.&nbsp;
From the team owner, Kavya Maran, to Abhishek&rsquo;s family sitting in the stands to the thousand fans in attendance, everyone celebrated his match-winning hundred - a moment Abhishek shall cherish forever.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m9f9m6xb-n9aewpfi-w8gayqv5">
𝘼 𝙣𝙤𝙩𝙚-𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙩𝙝𝙮 𝙏𝙊𝙉 💯 A stunning maiden <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TATAIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TATAIPL</a> century from Abhishek Sharma keeps <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SRH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SRH</a> on 🔝 in this chase 💪 Updates ▶ <a href="https://t.co/RTe7RlXDRq">https://t.co/RTe7RlXDRq</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TATAIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TATAIPL</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SRHvPBKS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SRHvPBKS</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/SunRisers?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SunRisers</a> <a href="https://t.co/ANgdm1n86w">pic.twitter.com/ANgdm1n86w</a>
&mdash; IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/1911109071568003326?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 12, 2025</a></blockquote>
(With inputs from agencies)

His monumental knock floored PBKS as SRH chased 245 inside the 18th over, completing the second-most successful run chase in this tournament. India news, Cricket, Sports

Abhishek Sharma is all over the internet for his viral ‘note celebration’ against Punjab Kings in IPL 2025. The left-handed SRH opener scored a stunning 141 off 55 balls while chasing (hitting ten sixes and 14 fours), registering the highest individual score by an Indian in the history of this league. His monumental knock floored PBKS as SRH chased 245 inside the 19th over, completing the second-most successful run chase in this tournament. His opening partner, Travis Head, reveals what went behind Abhishek's infamous note celebration the other night. Head and Abhishek were at the forefront of the chase at home, smacking PBKS bowlers with utter disdain. Head faced off the new ball cautiously, only for Abhishek to go all out in his turn. The Indian opener left none, hammering even the pacers, including Punjab’s overseas seamer Marco Jansen, for nearly 40 runs in his two overs. Such was the plight that PBKS captain Shreyas Iyer had to bring in batter Shashank Singh to bowl his part-timers inside the first ten overs, as everyone else was leaking runs at an embarrassing rate. 𝐁𝐄𝐀𝐒𝐓 𝐌𝐎𝐃𝐄: 🔛 🎥 Catch a glimpse of how Abhishek Sharma raced towards a record knock of an explosive 141 (55) 🧡🔥 Updates ▶ https://t.co/RTe7RlYbGY#TATAIPL | #SRHvPBKS | @SunRisers pic.twitter.com/8vjvkKYPMS — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) April 12, 2025 While Abhishek kept knocking off each ball to the boundary, Head was happy witnessing history unfolding at the other end. Having shared, batted and spent enough time since playing together at SRH, Head explained the story behind Abhishek’s note celebration. Following SRH’s eight-wicket win against Punjab - their second this season and perhaps a needed one, Head revealed Abhishek had this paper folded in his pocket for the past several games but finally pulled it out on Saturday. “The note has been in the pocket of Abhishek Sharma for 6 games, glad it came out tonight,” Head revealed in a chat with the broadcaster after the game. Abhishek’s Wonder Night in IPL 2025 Abhishek began aggressively in the side’s tournament opener against the Rajasthan Royals but failed to convert his starts to big scores in the upcoming few games. Upbeat about performing well and returning among runs, the left-handed batter picked the PBKS game to silence his critics, and he did so handsomely. Alongside Head, Abhishek stitched a 171-run stand for the first wicket in just over 12 overs, completing his maiden IPL hundred a few balls later. Supremely proud of his performance, he celebrated it by pulling out a note, which read, ‘THIS IS FOR THE ORANGE ARMY’. From the team owner, Kavya Maran, to Abhishek’s family sitting in the stands to the thousand fans in attendance, everyone celebrated his match-winning hundred - a moment Abhishek shall cherish forever. 𝘼 𝙣𝙤𝙩𝙚-𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙩𝙝𝙮 𝙏𝙊𝙉 💯 A stunning maiden #TATAIPL century from Abhishek Sharma keeps #SRH on 🔝 in this chase 💪 Updates ▶ https://t.co/RTe7RlXDRq#TATAIPL | #SRHvPBKS | @SunRisers pic.twitter.com/ANgdm1n86w — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) April 12, 2025 (With inputs from agencies)

IPL 2025: What's the story behind Abhishek Sharma's viral 'note celebration?' Head reveals

Opener <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/abhishek-sharma">Abhishek Sharma</a> smashed a scintillating century and shared a 171-run partnership with fellow opener <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/travis-head">Travis Head</a> as Sunrisers Hyderabad made a mockery of 245-run chase, registering an eight-wicket win against Punjab Kings in the ongoing Indian Premier League 2025 on Saturday. SRH scaled down the target 247/2 with nine balls to spare.
Abhishek made 141 off 55 deliveries studded with 14 fours and 10 big hits, while Head made 66 off 37 balls as the duo undid the good work done by Punjab Kings' captain Shreyas Iyer, who hit a 36-ball 82 after electing to bat first.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-dcs-ashutosh-sharma-backs-simple-see-ball-hit-ball-plan-ahead-of-clash-against-mumbai-indians-8955763">IPL 2025: DC's Ashutosh Sharma backs simple &lsquo;see ball, hit ball&rsquo; plan ahead of clash against Mumbai Indians</a>
Earlier in the first innings, PBKS' skipper <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/shreyas-iyer">Shreyas Iyer'</a>s fifty and Australian right-hand batter Marcus Stoinis's cameo in the end powered the Punjab Kings (PBKS) side to a massive total of 245/6 in their 20 overs.
<h2>Shreyas scores his third half-century&nbsp;</h2>
PBKS skipper Shreyas Iyer won the toss and opted to bat first at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad. Batters Prabhsimran Singh and Priyansh Arya came out in the middle to open the innings for their side.&nbsp;In the first over, Prabhsimran blasted Mohammed Shami for three fours. In the second over, skipper Pat Cummins gave away 16 runs, with Priyansh being the aggressor with four and six. In the third over, Shami is taken down for three sixes and a four. PBKS is 53/0, with Priyansh (29*) and Prabhsimran (23*) unbeaten.
Debutant Eshan Malinga took his maiden IPL wicket as a fine catch at mid-off from Pat Cummins to dismiss Prabhsimran (42 in 23 balls, with seven fours and a six) at the score of 91 in the seventh over.
Shreyas Iyer went on to score his third half-century of IPL 2025 in just 22 balls, which came with two fours and five sixes.&nbsp;Eshan Malinga got his second wicket, as he removed Nehal for 27 in 22 balls, with two fours and a six. PBKS is 164/3 in 13.3 overs.
(With inputs from agencies)

Cricket, Sports: Abhishek Sharma made blistering 141 off 55 deliveries. His innings was laced with 14 boundaries and 10 sixes, while Travis Head made 66 off 37 balls

Opener Abhishek Sharma smashed a scintillating century and shared a 171-run partnership with fellow opener Travis Head as Sunrisers Hyderabad made a mockery of 245-run chase, registering an eight-wicket win against Punjab Kings in the ongoing Indian Premier League 2025 on Saturday. SRH scaled down the target 247/2 with nine balls to spare. Abhishek made 141 off 55 deliveries studded with 14 fours and 10 big hits, while Head made 66 off 37 balls as the duo undid the good work done by Punjab Kings' captain Shreyas Iyer, who hit a 36-ball 82 after electing to bat first. Also Read: IPL 2025: DC's Ashutosh Sharma backs simple ‘see ball, hit ball’ plan ahead of clash against Mumbai Indians Earlier in the first innings, PBKS' skipper Shreyas Iyer's fifty and Australian right-hand batter Marcus Stoinis's cameo in the end powered the Punjab Kings (PBKS) side to a massive total of 245/6 in their 20 overs. Shreyas scores his third half-century PBKS skipper Shreyas Iyer won the toss and opted to bat first at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad. Batters Prabhsimran Singh and Priyansh Arya came out in the middle to open the innings for their side. In the first over, Prabhsimran blasted Mohammed Shami for three fours. In the second over, skipper Pat Cummins gave away 16 runs, with Priyansh being the aggressor with four and six. In the third over, Shami is taken down for three sixes and a four. PBKS is 53/0, with Priyansh (29*) and Prabhsimran (23*) unbeaten. Debutant Eshan Malinga took his maiden IPL wicket as a fine catch at mid-off from Pat Cummins to dismiss Prabhsimran (42 in 23 balls, with seven fours and a six) at the score of 91 in the seventh over. Shreyas Iyer went on to score his third half-century of IPL 2025 in just 22 balls, which came with two fours and five sixes. Eshan Malinga got his second wicket, as he removed Nehal for 27 in 22 balls, with two fours and a six. PBKS is 164/3 in 13.3 overs. (With inputs from agencies)

IPL 2025: Fiery Abhishek steers SRH to eight-wicket win over Punjab Kings

The Indian Premier League is far more than just another cricket tournament; it is a festival at this point. It integrates top-tier cricket, captivating spectacles, and a level of passion from fans unlike any other. What sets the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/indian-premier-league" rel="dofollow">IPL</a> apart are the unparalleled cheers of supporters, the excitement, and their deep emotional attachment to the tournament. But amongst all this thrill, there is an important question we need to ponder: Are we providing the right amount of space and regard to cricketers?
One should consider this question after a recent episode in Hyderabad with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/travis-head">Travis Head</a>. A fan approached the Australian cricketer for a picture at what appeared to be a supermarket but the cricketer didn't oblige their request. Despite his refusal, the fans continued to follow him but they were not able to take that picture. The video sparked debate with some users calling the cricketer out for his 'attitude', while some defended him saying that the fans should respect his privacy in public spaces.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-this-former-india-cricketer-once-sledged-kohli-in-ipl-heres-what-virat-replied-8944084">IPL 2025: THIS former India cricketer once sledged Kohli in IPL. Here's what Virat replied</a>
And this is not the only incident. Fans have repeatedly attempted to cross the lines of security to access the field during the games in this ongoing IPL season. For example, during RCB's opening game against KKR, a pitch invader&nbsp;breached security to meet his idol, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/virat-kohli">Virat Kohli</a>. This incident left Kohli miffed as he turned away in frustration, but he regained composure, picked the fan up from his feet and hugged him before he was separated from the officials. 
Another incident happened during the game between Kolkata Knight Riders and Rajasthan Royals. During the KKR innings,&nbsp;a fan breached security and ran on the field to touch <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/riyan-parag">Riyan Parag</a>'s feet and hug him. Parag was a bit surprised with the gesture and although the incident led to a slight delay in proceedings, the fan was quickly escorted out of the field by the security personnel.
These instances, which frequently go viral, are often met with laughter. However, these moments are not as innocent as they appear. In reality, they highlight a more concerning problem: The inability to draw a line between appreciation and entitlement.
<h2>Watch video of fan trying to get selfie with Travis Head:</h2>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
SRH fans harassing Travis Head. Shame on these people. They think every foreign player must be like David Warner wagging his tails whenever he sees Indians <a href="https://t.co/nM6d5OrIyL">pic.twitter.com/nM6d5OrIyL</a>
&mdash; Ryder (@ArrestDh0bi) <a href="https://twitter.com/ArrestDh0bi/status/1909456438126063863?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 8, 2025</a></blockquote>

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

Yes, cricketers are public figures. They are also performers, role models, and, to many, heroes. But above all, they are human beings. Just like anyone else, they need their personal space, safety, and peace of mind. The pressures of performance, constant travel, media obligations, and personal sacrifices already bears down on them. The little time they have away from the limelight shouldn&rsquo;t turn into another stage where fans demand their attention.

Cricket, Sports: Fans have repeatedly attempted to cross the lines of security to access the field during the games in this ongoing season as well

The Indian Premier League is far more than just another cricket tournament; it is a festival at this point. It integrates top-tier cricket, captivating spectacles, and a level of passion from fans unlike any other. What sets the IPL apart are the unparalleled cheers of supporters, the excitement, and their deep emotional attachment to the tournament. But amongst all this thrill, there is an important question we need to ponder: Are we providing the right amount of space and regard to cricketers? One should consider this question after a recent episode in Hyderabad with Travis Head. A fan approached the Australian cricketer for a picture at what appeared to be a supermarket but the cricketer didn't oblige their request. Despite his refusal, the fans continued to follow him but they were not able to take that picture. The video sparked debate with some users calling the cricketer out for his 'attitude', while some defended him saying that the fans should respect his privacy in public spaces. Also Read: IPL 2025: THIS former India cricketer once sledged Kohli in IPL. Here's what Virat replied And this is not the only incident. Fans have repeatedly attempted to cross the lines of security to access the field during the games in this ongoing IPL season. For example, during RCB's opening game against KKR, a pitch invader breached security to meet his idol, Virat Kohli. This incident left Kohli miffed as he turned away in frustration, but he regained composure, picked the fan up from his feet and hugged him before he was separated from the officials. Another incident happened during the game between Kolkata Knight Riders and Rajasthan Royals. During the KKR innings, a fan breached security and ran on the field to touch Riyan Parag's feet and hug him. Parag was a bit surprised with the gesture and although the incident led to a slight delay in proceedings, the fan was quickly escorted out of the field by the security personnel. These instances, which frequently go viral, are often met with laughter. However, these moments are not as innocent as they appear. In reality, they highlight a more concerning problem: The inability to draw a line between appreciation and entitlement. Watch video of fan trying to get selfie with Travis Head: SRH fans harassing Travis Head. Shame on these people. They think every foreign player must be like David Warner wagging his tails whenever he sees Indians pic.twitter.com/nM6d5OrIyL — Ryder (@ArrestDh0bi) April 8, 2025 Yes, cricketers are public figures. They are also performers, role models, and, to many, heroes. But above all, they are human beings. Just like anyone else, they need their personal space, safety, and peace of mind. The pressures of performance, constant travel, media obligations, and personal sacrifices already bears down on them. The little time they have away from the limelight shouldn’t turn into another stage where fans demand their attention.

IPL 2025 | In the name of fans: Why we must respect cricketers' personal space

Priyansh Arya, the dynamic 24-year-old left-handed opener, delivered a masterclass in aggressive batting as he notched up his maiden <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/indian-premier-league">Indian Premier League</a> (IPL) century against the Chennai Super Kings at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium on Tuesday.
Arya lit up the evening with a breathtaking 103 off just 42 balls, becoming the fastest centurion against CSK and tying with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/travis-head">Travis Head</a> for the fourth-fastest ton in IPL history. His milestone also marked the second-fastest century by an Indian in the tournament, behind only Yusuf Pathan.
Opening the innings in sensational fashion, Arya launched Khaleel Ahmed for a six off the very first ball and survived a dropped chance off the next. He went on to plunder 17 runs from that over, setting the tone for his explosive innings. He remained relentless, hammering seven boundaries and nine towering sixes, dominating the CSK bowlers even as wickets fell at the other end.
Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/badminton-asia-championships-dhruv-kapila-tanisha-crasto-keep-indias-hopes-alive-in-mixed-doubles-8940174">Badminton Asia Championships: Dhruv Kapila-Tanisha Crasto keep India's hopes alive in mixed doubles</a>
<div class="publive-dynamic-container dynamic-container"></div>
He perfectly started his innings by sending Khaleel Ahmed&rsquo;s delivery for a six on the first ball of the game before being dropped by the bowler on the very next delivery, and proceeded to hit the quick for 17 in the opening over. Arya once again rode his luck, while batting at 79, when he was caught by Mukesh Choudhary, but he stepped onto the ropes, deeming it a six.
<h2>Priyansh smashed six sixes in an over in Delhi Premier League</h2>
He brought up his century in style, slamming three consecutive sixes off Matheesha Pathirana, and then edging the fourth ball for a boundary to reach triple figures. Arya was eventually dismissed by Noor Ahmad, but not before leaving a lasting impact.
This knock made him only the second player to score a century in the ongoing IPL season, following Ishan Kishan&rsquo;s unbeaten 106 against the Rajasthan Royals.
Arya first burst onto the scene during the inaugural edition of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/delhi-premier-league">Delhi Premier League</a> (DPL), where he famously smashed six sixes in an over and amassed 608 runs from 10 innings at a staggering strike rate of 198.69. His DPL performance, featuring two centuries and four fifties, drew attention from IPL scouts, earning him trials with all franchises ahead of the mega auction.
He was eventually signed by Punjab Kings (PBKS) for a notable $440,000 &mdash; and on Tuesday (April 8), he proved exactly why he was worth every penny.
(With inputs from agencies)

Cricket, Sports: The 24-year-old scored the fastest ton, off 39 balls, against the Super Kings and tied Travis Head for the fourth-fastest century in tournament history

Priyansh Arya, the dynamic 24-year-old left-handed opener, delivered a masterclass in aggressive batting as he notched up his maiden Indian Premier League (IPL) century against the Chennai Super Kings at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium on Tuesday. Arya lit up the evening with a breathtaking 103 off just 42 balls, becoming the fastest centurion against CSK and tying with Travis Head for the fourth-fastest ton in IPL history. His milestone also marked the second-fastest century by an Indian in the tournament, behind only Yusuf Pathan. Opening the innings in sensational fashion, Arya launched Khaleel Ahmed for a six off the very first ball and survived a dropped chance off the next. He went on to plunder 17 runs from that over, setting the tone for his explosive innings. He remained relentless, hammering seven boundaries and nine towering sixes, dominating the CSK bowlers even as wickets fell at the other end. Also Read: Badminton Asia Championships: Dhruv Kapila-Tanisha Crasto keep India's hopes alive in mixed doubles He perfectly started his innings by sending Khaleel Ahmed’s delivery for a six on the first ball of the game before being dropped by the bowler on the very next delivery, and proceeded to hit the quick for 17 in the opening over. Arya once again rode his luck, while batting at 79, when he was caught by Mukesh Choudhary, but he stepped onto the ropes, deeming it a six. Priyansh smashed six sixes in an over in Delhi Premier League He brought up his century in style, slamming three consecutive sixes off Matheesha Pathirana, and then edging the fourth ball for a boundary to reach triple figures. Arya was eventually dismissed by Noor Ahmad, but not before leaving a lasting impact. This knock made him only the second player to score a century in the ongoing IPL season, following Ishan Kishan’s unbeaten 106 against the Rajasthan Royals. Arya first burst onto the scene during the inaugural edition of the Delhi Premier League (DPL), where he famously smashed six sixes in an over and amassed 608 runs from 10 innings at a staggering strike rate of 198.69. His DPL performance, featuring two centuries and four fifties, drew attention from IPL scouts, earning him trials with all franchises ahead of the mega auction. He was eventually signed by Punjab Kings (PBKS) for a notable $440,000 — and on Tuesday (April 8), he proved exactly why he was worth every penny. (With inputs from agencies)

IPL 2025: PBKS' Priyansh Arya slams second-fastest century by an Indian batter against CSK

IPL franchise <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/sunrisers-hyderabad-srh" rel="dofollow">SunRisers Hyderabad&rsquo;s (SRH)</a> owner Kavya Maran wasn&rsquo;t happy with how her team&rsquo;s superstar opening pair of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/travis-head" rel="dofollow">Travis Head</a> and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/abhishek-sharma" rel="dofollow">Abhishek Sharma</a> departed early inside the Powerplay against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/gujarat-titans" rel="dofollow">Gujarat Titans</a> at home on Sunday evening. Failing to provide a brilliant start cost SRH as they lost their fourth successive game in IPL 2025, while GT completed their hat-trick of wins. With just one win in five contested matches thus far, SRH sits at the bottom of the points table.
Unlike how it unfolded in the team&rsquo;s tournament opener against Rajasthan Royals when they almost breached the record for the highest team total in IPL (the record they only held), SRH failed to produce repetitive performances in their four matches played since, the blame for which fell on the openers that didn&rsquo;t click individually and as a pair. Against GT, the picture remained the same.
While Australian opener Travis Head departed inside the first over, caught at the mid-wicket off seamer Mohammed Siraj on eight, the Indian quick also accounted for Head&rsquo;s partner Abhishek Sharma on 18 in his third over. Head and Abhishek hit early fours but failed to get going, leaving their team owner sitting in the stands amused by their shot selections.
Kavya&rsquo;s expressions told the entire story as a poor start led to SRH putting up a modest 152 for eight in 20 overs.
<h3>Watch Video &ndash;</h3>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m96jq7ds-keqvsz4o-jnbu7gqo">
Ruk jao bhai kya kar rahe ho Normal cricket khel lo ab 🤣🤣 Kavya maran's reactions 🤌🏽🤣 <a href="https://t.co/O39QTMNgPc">pic.twitter.com/O39QTMNgPc</a>
&mdash; &bull;&bull;TAUKIR&bull;&bull; (@iitaukir) <a href="https://twitter.com/iitaukir/status/1908893313488269607?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 6, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2>GT completes hat-trick of wins</h2>
Gujarat&rsquo;s new-looking XI seems to have clicked well as they completed their hat-trick of wins since going down in their first game of IPL 2025. Shubman Gill-led side has ticked all boxes, looking stronger with each match.&nbsp;
While their premier seamer Siraj has returned among wickets, placed second after CSK&rsquo;s Noor Ahmed in the wickets tally thus far this season with nine scalps from five matches, their batters coming up good in every game has benefitted them big time.&nbsp;
Even though their top run-getters Sai Sudharsan and Jos Buttler got out on without contributing enough (against GT), Gill&rsquo;s unbeaten 61 and 49 from Washington Sundar and 35 not out off 16 balls by Sherfane Rutherford ensured Gujarat crossed the line with seven wickets remaining.
SunRisers&rsquo; next game is against Punjab Kings at home on coming Saturday.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Cricket, Sports: While Head departed inside the first over on just eight, Siraj accounted for his partner Abhishek Sharma soon after, with SRH losing both within the PP.

IPL franchise SunRisers Hyderabad’s (SRH) owner Kavya Maran wasn’t happy with how her team’s superstar opening pair of Travis Head and Abhishek Sharma departed early inside the Powerplay against Gujarat Titans at home on Sunday evening. Failing to provide a brilliant start cost SRH as they lost their fourth successive game in IPL 2025, while GT completed their hat-trick of wins. With just one win in five contested matches thus far, SRH sits at the bottom of the points table. Unlike how it unfolded in the team’s tournament opener against Rajasthan Royals when they almost breached the record for the highest team total in IPL (the record they only held), SRH failed to produce repetitive performances in their four matches played since, the blame for which fell on the openers that didn’t click individually and as a pair. Against GT, the picture remained the same. While Australian opener Travis Head departed inside the first over, caught at the mid-wicket off seamer Mohammed Siraj on eight, the Indian quick also accounted for Head’s partner Abhishek Sharma on 18 in his third over. Head and Abhishek hit early fours but failed to get going, leaving their team owner sitting in the stands amused by their shot selections. Kavya’s expressions told the entire story as a poor start led to SRH putting up a modest 152 for eight in 20 overs. Watch Video – Ruk jao bhai kya kar rahe ho Normal cricket khel lo ab 🤣🤣 Kavya maran's reactions 🤌🏽🤣 pic.twitter.com/O39QTMNgPc — ••TAUKIR•• (@iitaukir) April 6, 2025 GT completes hat-trick of wins Gujarat’s new-looking XI seems to have clicked well as they completed their hat-trick of wins since going down in their first game of IPL 2025. Shubman Gill-led side has ticked all boxes, looking stronger with each match. While their premier seamer Siraj has returned among wickets, placed second after CSK’s Noor Ahmed in the wickets tally thus far this season with nine scalps from five matches, their batters coming up good in every game has benefitted them big time. Even though their top run-getters Sai Sudharsan and Jos Buttler got out on without contributing enough (against GT), Gill’s unbeaten 61 and 49 from Washington Sundar and 35 not out off 16 balls by Sherfane Rutherford ensured Gujarat crossed the line with seven wickets remaining. SunRisers’ next game is against Punjab Kings at home on coming Saturday. (With inputs from agencies)

SRH owner Kavya Maran’s animated reaction to Head, Abhishek’s dismissals against GT – Watch Viral Video

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/nitish-kumar-reddy" rel="dofollow">Nitish Reddy</a> was among a handful of Indian players who impressed everyone on the Australian tour Down Under. Making his Test debut at the Optus Stadium in Perth, Reddy slammed his maiden hundred three games later at the MCG, as the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-social-media-bursts-into-joy-over-nitish-reddys-maiden-test-hundred-check-reactions-8572794" rel="dofollow">cricketing world went gaga over it</a>. Although everyone cheered for him, Reddy revealed he strived for validation from two people, one in the dressing room and one outside.
Reddy is an emerging star. After making the right noises in the domestic games in the lead-up to his IPL debut last season, where Reddy smoked 303 runs and picked three wickets in SRH&rsquo;s almost successful campaign, head coach Gautam Gambhir unleashed him onto the international scene. Following his T20I debut earlier, Reddy got his maiden chance in the Test series Down Under, grabbing the opportunity with both hands.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/jasprit-bumrah-nca-return-fuels-chances-of-his-early-ipl-2025-comeback-mumbai-indians-8873705" rel="dofollow">Jasprit Bumrah&rsquo;s NCA return fuels chances of his early IPL 2025 comeback</a>
Reddy shared shoulders with some of the best names in cricket the past year and narrated one of the inside stories during an hour-long podcast at PUMA India headquarters in Bengaluru.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Back in the locker room, he (Virat Kohli) once asked Sarfaraz (Khan), &lsquo;Sarfu, tera size kya hai?&rsquo; (Sarfaraz, what&rsquo;s your shoe size?), and he said, &lsquo;Nine.&rsquo; Then he turned to me, and I thought, &lsquo;Oh my god, I have to guess this correctly,&rsquo; because even if they weren&rsquo;t my size, I really wanted his shoes. I said, &lsquo;10,&rsquo; and he gave them to me. In the next match, I wore those shoes and scored a hundred!" Reddy revealed during a recent chat.
Meanwhile, detailing what happened inside the dressing room post his maiden Test hundred, Reddy said, &ldquo;Everyone in the dressing room came up and congratulated me, but I was just looking for one guy&mdash;hoping he&rsquo;d come and talk to me. When Virat bhai (Kohli) finally walked up and told me I had played a wonderful game, that moment itself was special for me. I was also scanning the stands for my father but couldn&rsquo;t find him. Later, I saw on the screen that he was crying.&rdquo;
<h2>Conversation with Head</h2>
Reddy plays with Australia superstar Travis Head at SRH in the IPL, with whom he will be <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-nitish-kumar-reddy-set-to-join-srh-after-clearing-fitness-test-8855150" rel="dofollow">back in action during the 18th season</a>, starting March 22. Revealing a conversation with the attacking batter sometime during the BGT, Reddy said Head tried to distract him during his stay at the crease.
&ldquo;Travis came up to me and said, &lsquo;Nitish, where are you going to party tonight?&rsquo;&mdash;knowing fully well that I wouldn&rsquo;t. Then he went on, &lsquo;Australia is such a great place. Melbourne is an amazing city, you have to go out and chill.&rsquo; He was just trying to distract me. I just told him, &lsquo;Okay, Travis, one day we&rsquo;ll both&nbsp;go and party!&rsquo; During another match, he was fielding at short leg and warned me, &lsquo;Nitish, if you hit me, I&rsquo;ll hit you when you bowl!&rdquo; Reddy said.
(With inputs from agencies)

Cricket, Sports: Following his T20I debut earlier, Nitish Kumar Reddy got his maiden chance in the Test series Down Under, gabbing opportunity with both arms.

Nitish Reddy was among a handful of Indian players who impressed everyone on the Australian tour Down Under. Making his Test debut at the Optus Stadium in Perth, Reddy slammed his maiden hundred three games later at the MCG, as the cricketing world went gaga over it. Although everyone cheered for him, Reddy revealed he strived for validation from two people, one in the dressing room and one outside. Reddy is an emerging star. After making the right noises in the domestic games in the lead-up to his IPL debut last season, where Reddy smoked 303 runs and picked three wickets in SRH’s almost successful campaign, head coach Gautam Gambhir unleashed him onto the international scene. Following his T20I debut earlier, Reddy got his maiden chance in the Test series Down Under, grabbing the opportunity with both hands. Also read | Jasprit Bumrah’s NCA return fuels chances of his early IPL 2025 comeback Reddy shared shoulders with some of the best names in cricket the past year and narrated one of the inside stories during an hour-long podcast at PUMA India headquarters in Bengaluru. “Back in the locker room, he (Virat Kohli) once asked Sarfaraz (Khan), ‘Sarfu, tera size kya hai?’ (Sarfaraz, what’s your shoe size?), and he said, ‘Nine.’ Then he turned to me, and I thought, ‘Oh my god, I have to guess this correctly,’ because even if they weren’t my size, I really wanted his shoes. I said, ‘10,’ and he gave them to me. In the next match, I wore those shoes and scored a hundred!" Reddy revealed during a recent chat. Meanwhile, detailing what happened inside the dressing room post his maiden Test hundred, Reddy said, “Everyone in the dressing room came up and congratulated me, but I was just looking for one guy—hoping he’d come and talk to me. When Virat bhai (Kohli) finally walked up and told me I had played a wonderful game, that moment itself was special for me. I was also scanning the stands for my father but couldn’t find him. Later, I saw on the screen that he was crying.” Conversation with Head Reddy plays with Australia superstar Travis Head at SRH in the IPL, with whom he will be back in action during the 18th season, starting March 22. Revealing a conversation with the attacking batter sometime during the BGT, Reddy said Head tried to distract him during his stay at the crease. “Travis came up to me and said, ‘Nitish, where are you going to party tonight?’—knowing fully well that I wouldn’t. Then he went on, ‘Australia is such a great place. Melbourne is an amazing city, you have to go out and chill.’ He was just trying to distract me. I just told him, ‘Okay, Travis, one day we’ll both go and party!’ During another match, he was fielding at short leg and warned me, ‘Nitish, if you hit me, I’ll hit you when you bowl!” Reddy said. (With inputs from agencies)

‘I was looking for one guy…hoping he’d come and talk to me,’ Nitish Reddy recalls dressing room joy after MCG hundred

India spinner Varun Chakaravarthy took just one ball to do what hasn't been done ever against Travis Head in ODIs - a spinner getting him out in the first 10 overs in an ODI. Bowling his first and innings' ninth over, Varun bowled a slightly fuller ball which Head decided to pound down the ground. The ball, however, travelled only till long-on where Shubman Gill completed a brilliant running catch.
Before that, Head had never been dismissed to a spinner in the first 10 overs of an ODI and had scored 135 runs off 115 balls. Head's dismissal came as a huge respite for India which had been burned multiple times by Head's pyrotechnics, especially in WTC Final 2023 and ODI World Cup 2023 Final.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/exclusive-phoebe-litchfield-making-waves-in-wpl-one-shot-at-a-time-8800301">Exclusive | Phoebe Litchfield: Making waves in WPL, one shot at a time</a>
Head's dismissal on 39 off 33 balls put a break on Australia's free scoring as Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne had to do the rebuild.
Before the match, former India spinner Ravi Ashwin advised the same to skipper Rohit Sharma - give new ball to Varun.
&ldquo;New ball and give it to Varun and ask him to bowl over the stumps to Travis Head,&rdquo; Ashwin had said on his YouTube channel.
&ldquo;Travis Head shows all his three stumps and then clears his leg and hit it over the field. Varun Chakravarthy with new ball might give India an edge. It will be a mouth watering contest,&rdquo; he had added.
The spinner has been a late inclusion in the India squad after his sensational performance in T20Is against England prior to the tournament.
Varun made his ODI debut against England, which followed the T20Is, before being included in the Champions Trophy squad. The mystery spinner sat out the first two games but was given a chance against New Zealand and proved his worth.
Varun picked up 2/49 in the semi-final as India won the match by four wickets and marched to their third consecutive ICC event final.&nbsp;

Travis Head's dismissal on 39 off 33 balls put a break on Australia's free scoring as Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne had to do the rebuild.

India spinner Varun Chakaravarthy took just one ball to do what hasn't been done ever against Travis Head in ODIs - a spinner getting him out in the first 10 overs in an ODI. Bowling his first and innings' ninth over, Varun bowled a slightly fuller ball which Head decided to pound down the ground. The ball, however, travelled only till long-on where Shubman Gill completed a brilliant running catch. Before that, Head had never been dismissed to a spinner in the first 10 overs of an ODI and had scored 135 runs off 115 balls. Head's dismissal came as a huge respite for India which had been burned multiple times by Head's pyrotechnics, especially in WTC Final 2023 and ODI World Cup 2023 Final. Also Read: Exclusive | Phoebe Litchfield: Making waves in WPL, one shot at a time Head's dismissal on 39 off 33 balls put a break on Australia's free scoring as Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne had to do the rebuild. Before the match, former India spinner Ravi Ashwin advised the same to skipper Rohit Sharma - give new ball to Varun. “New ball and give it to Varun and ask him to bowl over the stumps to Travis Head,” Ashwin had said on his YouTube channel. “Travis Head shows all his three stumps and then clears his leg and hit it over the field. Varun Chakravarthy with new ball might give India an edge. It will be a mouth watering contest,” he had added. The spinner has been a late inclusion in the India squad after his sensational performance in T20Is against England prior to the tournament. Varun made his ODI debut against England, which followed the T20Is, before being included in the Champions Trophy squad. The mystery spinner sat out the first two games but was given a chance against New Zealand and proved his worth. Varun picked up 2/49 in the semi-final as India won the match by four wickets and marched to their third consecutive ICC event final.

'First time ever': In Champions Trophy semis, Varun Chakaravathy did what nobody could do against Aussie Travis Head

As KL Rahul charged down the wicket and hit Australia&rsquo;s Glenn Maxwell for a six over long-on, there was an eruption of joy in the Indian dressing room.&nbsp;
From Virat Kohli&rsquo;s animated celebration to Rahul exulting in jubilation, a feeling of glee and happiness surrounded the Dubai stadium.
Yes, India beat Australia&mdash;this time in the semi-final of the ICC <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">Champions Trophy</a> 2025. The Indian team showed remarkable dominance, securing a spot in the final. But let&rsquo;s be honest: Can this win be equal to or greater to what India faced on November 19, 2023, in the ODI World Cup final? The answer&mdash;one can never know.
The 2023 ODI World Cup final was not just a match; it was a historic moment. Approximately 1,20,000 fans thronged the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, expecting a fairytale ending. India had cruised through the tournament with an unbeaten run. Everything seemed set for a dream finish. But then came Australia&mdash;relentless, unshaken, and as dominant as ever on the biggest stage.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/india-skipper-rohit-creates-history-become-first-captain-in-the-world-cricket-to-8795457">India skipper Rohit creates history, becomes first captain in the world cricket to...</a>
That Australian side was a team full of proven match-winners&mdash;Marnus Labuschagne, Mitchell Starc, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/pat-cummins">Pat Cummins</a>, Josh Hazelwood, Glenn Maxwell, and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/steve-smith">Steve Smith</a>. A side that knew how to handle pressure, a side that had been there before, winning titles for fun. And in that final, Travis Head delivered a masterclass, crushing India&rsquo;s hopes with a century that silenced a sea of blue. The pain of that loss was immeasurable, and the scars still remain.
Now, fast forward to March 4, 2025. India beat Australia, but was this really the Australia we feared?
Come to think about it, this wasn&rsquo;t the same Australian team that broke a billion hearts in 2023. This was a second-string side&mdash;a team where only two players, Steve Smith and Glenn Maxwell, had played over 150 ODIs. The likes of Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, Josh Hazelwood&mdash;players who defined Australia&rsquo;s ruthless bowling attack&mdash;were nowhere to be seen. Marcus Stoinis had retired just before the tournament, further weakening their all-round depth.
Instead, Australia fielded a side with inexperienced players like Cooper and Tanveer Sangha, who had barely played ODIs at the highest level. The bowling attack lacked firepower, missing the venom that Hazelwood, Starc and Cummins brought. And yet, despite being vastly underpowered, Australia still put up a fight.
This semi-final was supposed to be a one-sided affair. India, with its world-class line-up, should have steamrolled this young Australian side. But the fact that Australia dragged the match into the second-last over despite missing half of their key players speaks volumes about their never-give-up attitude.
It was a win, but was it truly satisfying? Was it as defining as a World Cup final? No. Because deep down, every Indian fan knows that the Australia we conquered on March 4, 2025, was not the same Australia that crushed our dreams on November 19, 2023. That loss in the World Cup final was a heartbreak that can never be erased.&nbsp;
Yes, beating Australia in the Champions Trophy semi-final is a great achievement. But let&rsquo;s not pretend it washes away the pain of Ahmedabad. Some wounds take longer time to heal.
Now, with Australia out of the tournament, can India bury the ghost of Ahmedabad 2023 and go on to lift the coveted trophy. We will have to wait till Sunday, March 9.

Opinions, Sports, Cricket: After beating Australia to secure a spot in the final, India will either face New Zealand or South Africa in the summit clash of CT 2025 on March 9

As KL Rahul charged down the wicket and hit Australia’s Glenn Maxwell for a six over long-on, there was an eruption of joy in the Indian dressing room. From Virat Kohli’s animated celebration to Rahul exulting in jubilation, a feeling of glee and happiness surrounded the Dubai stadium. Yes, India beat Australia—this time in the semi-final of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The Indian team showed remarkable dominance, securing a spot in the final. But let’s be honest: Can this win be equal to or greater to what India faced on November 19, 2023, in the ODI World Cup final? The answer—one can never know. The 2023 ODI World Cup final was not just a match; it was a historic moment. Approximately 1,20,000 fans thronged the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, expecting a fairytale ending. India had cruised through the tournament with an unbeaten run. Everything seemed set for a dream finish. But then came Australia—relentless, unshaken, and as dominant as ever on the biggest stage. Also Read: India skipper Rohit creates history, becomes first captain in the world cricket to... That Australian side was a team full of proven match-winners—Marnus Labuschagne, Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, Josh Hazelwood, Glenn Maxwell, and Steve Smith. A side that knew how to handle pressure, a side that had been there before, winning titles for fun. And in that final, Travis Head delivered a masterclass, crushing India’s hopes with a century that silenced a sea of blue. The pain of that loss was immeasurable, and the scars still remain. Now, fast forward to March 4, 2025. India beat Australia, but was this really the Australia we feared? Come to think about it, this wasn’t the same Australian team that broke a billion hearts in 2023. This was a second-string side—a team where only two players, Steve Smith and Glenn Maxwell, had played over 150 ODIs. The likes of Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, Josh Hazelwood—players who defined Australia’s ruthless bowling attack—were nowhere to be seen. Marcus Stoinis had retired just before the tournament, further weakening their all-round depth. Instead, Australia fielded a side with inexperienced players like Cooper and Tanveer Sangha, who had barely played ODIs at the highest level. The bowling attack lacked firepower, missing the venom that Hazelwood, Starc and Cummins brought. And yet, despite being vastly underpowered, Australia still put up a fight. This semi-final was supposed to be a one-sided affair. India, with its world-class line-up, should have steamrolled this young Australian side. But the fact that Australia dragged the match into the second-last over despite missing half of their key players speaks volumes about their never-give-up attitude. It was a win, but was it truly satisfying? Was it as defining as a World Cup final? No. Because deep down, every Indian fan knows that the Australia we conquered on March 4, 2025, was not the same Australia that crushed our dreams on November 19, 2023. That loss in the World Cup final was a heartbreak that can never be erased. Yes, beating Australia in the Champions Trophy semi-final is a great achievement. But let’s not pretend it washes away the pain of Ahmedabad. Some wounds take longer time to heal. Now, with Australia out of the tournament, can India bury the ghost of Ahmedabad 2023 and go on to lift the coveted trophy. We will have to wait till Sunday, March 9.

With Australia out, can India bury ghosts of Ahmedabad 2023 in Dubai desert?

Former India spinner Ravi Ashwin says that skipper Rohit Sharma should give the new ball to mystery spinner Varun Chakaravarthy in the first semi-final against Australia on Mar 4 in Dubai. The comments came as a tactic to get Aussie opener Travis Head out early. Head has been India's Achilles heel in recent times, including the ICC tournaments.
&ldquo;New ball and give it to Varun and ask him to bowl over the stumps to Travis Head,&rdquo; Ashwin said on his YouTube channel.
&ldquo;Travis Head shows all his three stumps and then clears his leg and hit it over the field. Varun Chakravarthy with new ball might give India an edge. It will be a mouth watering contest,&rdquo; he said.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-this-arrangement-made-sense-to-us-says-smith-on-australia-and-sa-travelling-to-dubai-8776902">'This arrangement made sense to us,' says Smith on Australia and SA travelling to Dubai</a>
&ldquo;I would be very surprised if Travis Head will take on a back seat against Varun. He would love to go aggressive and it will high-risk option. Either he will give Australia good start or India will get him out cheaply.
&ldquo;If Travis Head doesn&rsquo;t take him on, then keeps Varun on for five overs. This Australian team has too many right-handedness and for that we have Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel. If I am India then I won&rsquo;t be worried about this bowling line-up of India," added the former spinner.
Head was the point of difference between the two sides when Australia beat India in 2023 ODI World Cup Final on November 19, 2023 and WTC Final in June 2023.
In the ongoing tournament though, Head has not been able to score as freely as he would have liked. On the two occasions Head has batted, the left-hand power hitter has scored 65 runs with 59 not out coming in one of those innings.
If India manage to get Head out early, they'd surely have a better chance at winning the semi-final and proceed to the title showdown.&nbsp;

Champions Trophy: Head was the point of difference between the two sides when Australia beat India in the ODI World Cup Final in November  2023 and WTC Final in June 2023. Cricket Sports

Former India spinner Ravi Ashwin says that skipper Rohit Sharma should give the new ball to mystery spinner Varun Chakaravarthy in the first semi-final against Australia on Mar 4 in Dubai. The comments came as a tactic to get Aussie opener Travis Head out early. Head has been India's Achilles heel in recent times, including the ICC tournaments. “New ball and give it to Varun and ask him to bowl over the stumps to Travis Head,” Ashwin said on his YouTube channel. “Travis Head shows all his three stumps and then clears his leg and hit it over the field. Varun Chakravarthy with new ball might give India an edge. It will be a mouth watering contest,” he said. Also Read: 'This arrangement made sense to us,' says Smith on Australia and SA travelling to Dubai “I would be very surprised if Travis Head will take on a back seat against Varun. He would love to go aggressive and it will high-risk option. Either he will give Australia good start or India will get him out cheaply. “If Travis Head doesn’t take him on, then keeps Varun on for five overs. This Australian team has too many right-handedness and for that we have Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel. If I am India then I won’t be worried about this bowling line-up of India," added the former spinner. Head was the point of difference between the two sides when Australia beat India in 2023 ODI World Cup Final on November 19, 2023 and WTC Final in June 2023. In the ongoing tournament though, Head has not been able to score as freely as he would have liked. On the two occasions Head has batted, the left-hand power hitter has scored 65 runs with 59 not out coming in one of those innings. If India manage to get Head out early, they'd surely have a better chance at winning the semi-final and proceed to the title showdown.

Champions Trophy: Ravi Ashwin reveals how to get Travis Head out early in semis

Australia captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/steve-smith">Steve Smith</a> has acknowledged the challenge of facing India's spin-heavy attack on a dry pitch in Dubai ahead of their Champions Trophy semi-final. He said that his team&rsquo;s success will largely depend on how they tackle India&rsquo;s spinners.
India, fielding four spinners in their last group-stage match against New Zealand, secured a 44-run win by choking the Kiwi batting lineup. Smith, aware of the threat posed by India&rsquo;s spin attack, admitted that countering them effectively will be crucial.
"I think it&rsquo;s not just about Chakravarthy; the rest of their spinners are quality as well. The key for us will be how we handle their spin," Smith said on the eve of the semi-final. "There&rsquo;s going to be some turn, and we have to find ways to counter that. We&rsquo;ve got a few plans, and we&rsquo;ll see how they play out tomorrow."
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/who-is-sonali-pandey-appointed-as-team-doctor-for-the-australian-deaf-and-hard-of-hearing-hoh-cricket-team-8775168">Who is Sonali Pandey? Appointed as team doctor for the Australian deaf and hard of hearing (HoH) cricket team</a>
One of Australia&rsquo;s key weapons, opener <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/travis-head">Travis Head</a>, has a strong record in knockout games, and Smith hopes he can deliver again.
&ldquo;There&rsquo;s always pressure in big games, but Travis has stepped up many times before. He looked in great touch against Afghanistan, and I&rsquo;m sure he&rsquo;ll come out with the same aggressive intent. Hopefully, he can make an impact early on.&rdquo;
While India have played all their matches in Dubai, giving them familiarity with the conditions, Smith downplayed any advantage.
&ldquo;They have seen the conditions firsthand, but I&rsquo;m not sure if it&rsquo;s an advantage. The square block is quite dry, and we&rsquo;ve seen how the wickets play here,&rdquo; he said.
<h2>'We have variety of options'</h2>
Australia&rsquo;s preparation was slightly disrupted after their last league match against Afghanistan was rained out, forcing them to wait on India&rsquo;s result to confirm their semifinal venue. However, Smith saw a silver lining.
"It worked out well for us. If we had waited for last night&rsquo;s result, we would have flown in today and played tomorrow without training on the surface. Instead, we got two days to prepare and adapt to the conditions."
Smith also expressed confidence in Australia&rsquo;s spin options, mentioning all-rounder <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/glenn-maxwell">Glenn Maxwell</a> and Cooper Connolly as potential contributors.
&ldquo;We have a variety of options. Maxwell is there, and although Matthew Short&rsquo;s absence is a loss, he bowled well in the last game. Connolly is another option, and we have part-timers who can play a role.&rdquo;
The Australian squad is missing key pacers like Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Josh Hazlewood, but Smith praised the replacements for stepping up.
&ldquo;We&rsquo;re without some experienced bowlers, but the guys who have come in have done well. This tournament has been a great opportunity for them to gain international exposure. Hopefully, they can deliver another strong performance and take us to the final,&rdquo; he signed off.
(With inputs from agencies)

Cricket, Sports: One of Australia’s key weapons, opener Travis Head, has a strong record in knockout games, and Smith hopes he can deliver again

Australia captain Steve Smith has acknowledged the challenge of facing India's spin-heavy attack on a dry pitch in Dubai ahead of their Champions Trophy semi-final. He said that his team’s success will largely depend on how they tackle India’s spinners. India, fielding four spinners in their last group-stage match against New Zealand, secured a 44-run win by choking the Kiwi batting lineup. Smith, aware of the threat posed by India’s spin attack, admitted that countering them effectively will be crucial. "I think it’s not just about Chakravarthy; the rest of their spinners are quality as well. The key for us will be how we handle their spin," Smith said on the eve of the semi-final. "There’s going to be some turn, and we have to find ways to counter that. We’ve got a few plans, and we’ll see how they play out tomorrow." Also Read: Who is Sonali Pandey? Appointed as team doctor for the Australian deaf and hard of hearing (HoH) cricket team One of Australia’s key weapons, opener Travis Head, has a strong record in knockout games, and Smith hopes he can deliver again. “There’s always pressure in big games, but Travis has stepped up many times before. He looked in great touch against Afghanistan, and I’m sure he’ll come out with the same aggressive intent. Hopefully, he can make an impact early on.” While India have played all their matches in Dubai, giving them familiarity with the conditions, Smith downplayed any advantage. “They have seen the conditions firsthand, but I’m not sure if it’s an advantage. The square block is quite dry, and we’ve seen how the wickets play here,” he said. 'We have variety of options' Australia’s preparation was slightly disrupted after their last league match against Afghanistan was rained out, forcing them to wait on India’s result to confirm their semifinal venue. However, Smith saw a silver lining. "It worked out well for us. If we had waited for last night’s result, we would have flown in today and played tomorrow without training on the surface. Instead, we got two days to prepare and adapt to the conditions." Smith also expressed confidence in Australia’s spin options, mentioning all-rounder Glenn Maxwell and Cooper Connolly as potential contributors. “We have a variety of options. Maxwell is there, and although Matthew Short’s absence is a loss, he bowled well in the last game. Connolly is another option, and we have part-timers who can play a role.” The Australian squad is missing key pacers like Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Josh Hazlewood, but Smith praised the replacements for stepping up. “We’re without some experienced bowlers, but the guys who have come in have done well. This tournament has been a great opportunity for them to gain international exposure. Hopefully, they can deliver another strong performance and take us to the final,” he signed off. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy 2025: ‘Countering India’s spin attack on a dry wicket will be key,’ says Australia skipper Steve Smith

Australia&rsquo;s journey in the ICC <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">Champions Trophy</a> 2025 semi-finals has been a tale of resilience, grit, and a bit of fortune. Despite losing key players before the tournament, they have showcased their trademark fighting spirit, scripting a historic run chase against England before rain played its part in their remaining group games. Now, with a place in the final on the line, Australia will lock horns with India in a high-stakes semi-final in Dubai, eyeing yet another ICC title. As they gear up for the knockout battle, WION takes a closer look at their&nbsp; journey so far in the tournament.
Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-recapping-indias-road-to-semi-finals-8774865">Champions Trophy 2025: Recapping India's road to semi-finals</a>
<h2>Huge win over England</h2>
Their tournament got off to a thrilling start against England, where they chased down 352 - the highest-ever successful chase in history of Champions Trophy. In the first innings, Ben Dwarshuis, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/adam-zampa">Adam Zampa</a> and Marnus Labuschagne all collected multiple scalps, but <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ben-duckett">Ben Duckett</a>'s indomitable 165 powered England to 351/8 from their 50 overs.
<div class="ads-div-style"></div>
Australia faltered early in the chase, before Matthew Short and Alex Carey steadied things with half-centuries. But the hero was <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/josh-inglis">Josh Inglis</a>, whose game-changing 120 not oout propelled the Aussies over the line in Lahore.
<h2>Rain plays spoilsport vs South Africa</h2>
Their match against South Africa was abandoned without a ball being bowled due to persistent rain in Rawalpindi, leading to both the team sharing points.
<h2>Australia vs Afghanistan - Match abandoned</h2>
And then a subsequent rain-affected game against Afghanistan added a point to their bag, sealing their semi-final spot at another marquee ICC event.&nbsp;Afghanistan posted a total of 273 runs on the board from their 50 overs and Australia looked set to chase it at 109/1 in 12.5 overs, before play was abandoned in Lahore.
They will now face India in a cut-throat semi-final in Dubai on Tuesday (March 4), with the winner advancing to the tournament decider on Sunday (March 9).

Sports, Cricket: Despite losing key players, they have showcased their fighting spirit, scripting a historic run chase vsEngland before rain affected their remaining group games

Australia’s journey in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 semi-finals has been a tale of resilience, grit, and a bit of fortune. Despite losing key players before the tournament, they have showcased their trademark fighting spirit, scripting a historic run chase against England before rain played its part in their remaining group games. Now, with a place in the final on the line, Australia will lock horns with India in a high-stakes semi-final in Dubai, eyeing yet another ICC title. As they gear up for the knockout battle, WION takes a closer look at their journey so far in the tournament. Also Read: Champions Trophy 2025: Recapping India's road to semi-finals Huge win over England Their tournament got off to a thrilling start against England, where they chased down 352 - the highest-ever successful chase in history of Champions Trophy. In the first innings, Ben Dwarshuis, Adam Zampa and Marnus Labuschagne all collected multiple scalps, but Ben Duckett's indomitable 165 powered England to 351/8 from their 50 overs. Australia faltered early in the chase, before Matthew Short and Alex Carey steadied things with half-centuries. But the hero was Josh Inglis, whose game-changing 120 not oout propelled the Aussies over the line in Lahore. Rain plays spoilsport vs South Africa Their match against South Africa was abandoned without a ball being bowled due to persistent rain in Rawalpindi, leading to both the team sharing points. Australia vs Afghanistan - Match abandoned And then a subsequent rain-affected game against Afghanistan added a point to their bag, sealing their semi-final spot at another marquee ICC event. Afghanistan posted a total of 273 runs on the board from their 50 overs and Australia looked set to chase it at 109/1 in 12.5 overs, before play was abandoned in Lahore. They will now face India in a cut-throat semi-final in Dubai on Tuesday (March 4), with the winner advancing to the tournament decider on Sunday (March 9).

Champions Trophy 2025: Recapping Australia’s road to semi-finals

Australia cricket team could be handed a major blow in their preparations for the Champions Trophy 2025 as skipper Pat Cummins could be unfit due to an ankle injury. Speaking on Wednesday (Feb 5), head coach Andrew McDonald insisted that Cummins is &ldquo;heavily unlikely to feature for Australia having missed the Sri Lanka tour as well. According to McDonald, Steve Smith and Travis Head are the leading contenders to lead the Aussies in absence of Cummins as they try to win their second CT title. <o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Cummins unlikely for Champions Trophy<o:p></o:p></h2>
"Pat Cummins hasn't been able to resume any type of bowling so he's heavily unlikely, so that would mean that we do need a captain," McDonald told SEN. "Steve Smith and Travis Head are the two that we've been having conversations with while we've been building out that Champions Trophy team along with Pat back home. They'll be the two that we look at for that leadership post.&rdquo;<o:p></o:p>
Having skipped the Sri Lanka tour due to paternity leave and an ankle issue, Cummins could now miss the Champions Trophy in Pakistan. The Aussie skipper has been in brilliant form in recent weeks having led his nation to a Test series win over India and helping reach the World Test Championship (WTC) final. While he is yet to be officially ruled out, Cricket Australia (CA) is already looking at a captaincy alternative.
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/english-batters-will-fare-better-against-in-50-over-format-kevin-pietersen-8690821" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">English batters will fare better against... in 50-over format: Kevin Pietersen</a> 
Mitchell Marsh&rsquo;s poor run of form has seen him drop out of the team while Travis Head and Steve Smith emerge as potential options. Smith had previously served as Australia&rsquo;s full-time captain before the 2018 sandpaper gate scandal saw him vacate the post. However, despite this, Smith has led Australia in Cummins&rsquo; absence. <o:p></o:p>
Head on the other hand remains a clear favourite to take the captaincy role having thrived in recent months. He played a key role in Australia&rsquo;s 2023 World Test Championship (WTC) and ODI World Cup wins, scoring hundreds in both finals.<o:p></o:p>

Sports, Cricket: Australia cricket team could be handed a major blow in their preparations for the Champions Trophy 2025 as Pat Cummins could be unfit due to an ankle injury

Australia cricket team could be handed a major blow in their preparations for the Champions Trophy 2025 as skipper Pat Cummins could be unfit due to an ankle injury. Speaking on Wednesday (Feb 5), head coach Andrew McDonald insisted that Cummins is “heavily unlikely to feature for Australia having missed the Sri Lanka tour as well. According to McDonald, Steve Smith and Travis Head are the leading contenders to lead the Aussies in absence of Cummins as they try to win their second CT title. Cummins unlikely for Champions Trophy "Pat Cummins hasn't been able to resume any type of bowling so he's heavily unlikely, so that would mean that we do need a captain," McDonald told SEN. "Steve Smith and Travis Head are the two that we've been having conversations with while we've been building out that Champions Trophy team along with Pat back home. They'll be the two that we look at for that leadership post.” Having skipped the Sri Lanka tour due to paternity leave and an ankle issue, Cummins could now miss the Champions Trophy in Pakistan. The Aussie skipper has been in brilliant form in recent weeks having led his nation to a Test series win over India and helping reach the World Test Championship (WTC) final. While he is yet to be officially ruled out, Cricket Australia (CA) is already looking at a captaincy alternative. ALSO READ | English batters will fare better against... in 50-over format: Kevin Pietersen Mitchell Marsh’s poor run of form has seen him drop out of the team while Travis Head and Steve Smith emerge as potential options. Smith had previously served as Australia’s full-time captain before the 2018 sandpaper gate scandal saw him vacate the post. However, despite this, Smith has led Australia in Cummins’ absence. Head on the other hand remains a clear favourite to take the captaincy role having thrived in recent months. He played a key role in Australia’s 2023 World Test Championship (WTC) and ODI World Cup wins, scoring hundreds in both finals.

Champions Trophy 2025: Pat Cummins 'heavily unlikely' to feature; Travis Head, Steve Smith in captaincy race

<div class="OutlineElement Ltr SCXW139544732 BCX0"></div>
<div class="OutlineElement Ltr SCXW139544732 BCX0">
Dynamic Australian batter <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/travis-head">Travis Head</a> has backed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/sam-konstas">Sam </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/sam-konstas">Konstas</a> to regain his spot as the opener for Australia during the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/world-test-championship">World Test Championship</a> Final against South Africa.<span class="EOP SCXW139544732 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}">&nbsp;
</div>
<div class="OutlineElement Ltr SCXW139544732 BCX0">
Konstas made a stunning debut for Australia during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, as he scored a fifty at the MCG.<span class="EOP SCXW139544732 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}">&nbsp;
</div>
<div class="OutlineElement Ltr SCXW139544732 BCX0">
Konstas played some magnificent shots during the matches against India and handled the verbal jibes from his opponents well. However, the 19-year-old was dropped for the first Test in Galle as Australia decided to go with Head as an opener alongside Usman Khawaja.&nbsp;
The move worked as Head and Khawaja piled on misery on Lankans on Day 1. The youngster&nbsp;isn't expected to feature in the second Test as well, but Head is backing Konstas to be back in the mix.<span class="EOP SCXW139544732 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}">&nbsp;
</div>
<div class="OutlineElement Ltr SCXW139544732 BCX0">
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ranji-trophy-two-more-india-stars-included-in-mumbai-squad-they-are-suryakumar-yadav-and-shivam-dube-8690051">Ranji Trophy: Two more India stars included in Mumbai squad. They are...</a> Speaking to the reporters ahead of the second Test, Head joked that he is happy that he isn&rsquo;t a selector as the Australian team will have to deal with a selection headache with Josh Inglis in good form and Cameron Green expected to be fit.<span class="EOP SCXW139544732 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}">&nbsp;
</div>
<div class="OutlineElement Ltr SCXW139544732 BCX0">
&ldquo;Most likely I'd go back in the middle order and Sam would open,&rdquo; Head told reporters in Galle. &nbsp;<span class="EOP SCXW139544732 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}">&nbsp;
</div>
<div class="OutlineElement Ltr SCXW139544732 BCX0">
<h2 class="Paragraph SCXW139544732 BCX0" lang="EN-US" paraid="2032811338" paraeid="{fd0c530c-962f-4ee4-bbe3-c8381b830c5e}{151}">Konstas leaves Sri Lanka to play Sheffield Shield<span class="EOP SCXW139544732 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}">&nbsp;</h2>
</div>
<div class="OutlineElement Ltr SCXW139544732 BCX0">
Young opening batter Sam Konstas has left Australia&rsquo;s tour of Sri Lanka and is flying back home to play in New South Wales&rsquo; next Sheffield Shield game against Queensland at the Gabba.<span class="EOP SCXW139544732 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}">&nbsp;
</div>
<div class="OutlineElement Ltr SCXW139544732 BCX0">
The Australian media have reported that the decision to send back Konstas was taken after it became clear that the 19-year-old batter would not be considered for selection in the second Test against Sri Lanka.<span class="EOP SCXW139544732 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}">&nbsp;
</div>
<div class="OutlineElement Ltr SCXW139544732 BCX0">
According to a report in the Sydney Morning Herald, the Australian selectors &ldquo;have chosen to send Konstas home early so he can play&rdquo; in the first round of Shield games after the Big Bash League, as he has never played a first-class match in Brisbane before.<span class="EOP SCXW139544732 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}"> 
The game between NSW and Queensland starts on Saturday.<span class="EOP SCXW139544732 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}">&nbsp;
</div>
<div class="OutlineElement Ltr SCXW139544732 BCX0">
<span class="EOP SCXW139544732 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}">(With inputs from agencies)
</div>

Cricket Sports: Sam Konstas made a stunning debut for Australia during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy as he scored a fifty at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground

Dynamic Australian batter Travis Head has backed Sam Konstas to regain his spot as the opener for Australia during the World Test Championship Final against South Africa. Konstas made a stunning debut for Australia during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, as he scored a fifty at the MCG. Konstas played some magnificent shots during the matches against India and handled the verbal jibes from his opponents well. However, the 19-year-old was dropped for the first Test in Galle as Australia decided to go with Head as an opener alongside Usman Khawaja. The move worked as Head and Khawaja piled on misery on Lankans on Day 1. The youngster isn't expected to feature in the second Test as well, but Head is backing Konstas to be back in the mix. Also Read: Ranji Trophy: Two more India stars included in Mumbai squad. They are... Speaking to the reporters ahead of the second Test, Head joked that he is happy that he isn’t a selector as the Australian team will have to deal with a selection headache with Josh Inglis in good form and Cameron Green expected to be fit. “Most likely I'd go back in the middle order and Sam would open,” Head told reporters in Galle. Konstas leaves Sri Lanka to play Sheffield Shield Young opening batter Sam Konstas has left Australia’s tour of Sri Lanka and is flying back home to play in New South Wales’ next Sheffield Shield game against Queensland at the Gabba. The Australian media have reported that the decision to send back Konstas was taken after it became clear that the 19-year-old batter would not be considered for selection in the second Test against Sri Lanka. According to a report in the Sydney Morning Herald, the Australian selectors “have chosen to send Konstas home early so he can play” in the first round of Shield games after the Big Bash League, as he has never played a first-class match in Brisbane before. The game between NSW and Queensland starts on Saturday. (With inputs from agencies)

Travis Head wants this batsman to open for Australia in WTC final. He is...

Annabel Sutherland and Travis Head have claimed top honors at the Australian Cricket Awards in Melbourne, with Sutherland winning the Belinda Clark Award and Head securing the Allan Border Medal.

Travis Head, Annabel Sutherland win top Cricket Australia awards

Former Australian cricketer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/brad-haddin">Brad Haddin</a> has praised <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/travis-head">Travis Head</a> for his remarkable performances over the past year, highlighting his growing maturity and consistency. Haddin believes Head is a strong contender for the prestigious Allan Border Medal, which is awarded to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/australia-cricket">Australia</a>&rsquo;s best male cricketer annually.
Head has been instrumental in Australia&rsquo;s recent success across formats, delivering match-winning knocks and playing key roles in crucial encounters. His ability to adapt to different conditions and situations has made him one of the most reliable batters in the team.
Speaking on Head&rsquo;s progress, Haddin noted that the left-handed batter has significantly matured in his approach to the game. &ldquo;He has added a lot of maturity to his batting. His decision-making has improved, and he has shown the ability to control the tempo of his innings,&rdquo; Haddin as quoted by Fox Cricket.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-former-captain-rashid-latif-slams-pakistan-squad-as-political-selection-8682837">Champions Trophy 2025: Former captain Rashid Latif slams Pakistan squad as &lsquo;political selection'</a>
One of Head&rsquo;s standout performances came in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 final against India, where he played a match-winning innings of 137 runs. His heroics helped Australia lift their sixth ODI World Cup title. Additionally, he has been a key player in the Test format, producing impactful innings in the Ashes series and beyond.
Head&rsquo;s ability to perform under pressure and on big occasions has set him apart from his peers. His aggressive yet calculated batting style has provided Australia with a dependable middle-order option, capable of changing the course of a match.
The Allan Border Medal, Australia&rsquo;s highest individual cricketing honor, is awarded based on performances across Tests, ODIs, and T20Is. Given his contributions in all three formats, Head is among the frontrunners for the award.
Haddin emphasized that Head&rsquo;s consistency and leadership on the field make him a deserving candidate. &ldquo;He has been phenomenal for Australia, delivering in crucial moments. He&rsquo;s not just scoring runs but also influencing matches with his presence,&rdquo; Haddin added.
With his recent performances, Travis Head has strengthened his claim to the Allan Border Medal, and many believe he could be the rightful recipient of Australian cricket&rsquo;s top individual accolade.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: Head has been instrumental in Australia’s recent success across formats, delivering match-winning knocks in crucial encounters

Former Australian cricketer Brad Haddin has praised Travis Head for his remarkable performances over the past year, highlighting his growing maturity and consistency. Haddin believes Head is a strong contender for the prestigious Allan Border Medal, which is awarded to Australia’s best male cricketer annually. Head has been instrumental in Australia’s recent success across formats, delivering match-winning knocks and playing key roles in crucial encounters. His ability to adapt to different conditions and situations has made him one of the most reliable batters in the team. Speaking on Head’s progress, Haddin noted that the left-handed batter has significantly matured in his approach to the game. “He has added a lot of maturity to his batting. His decision-making has improved, and he has shown the ability to control the tempo of his innings,” Haddin as quoted by Fox Cricket. Also Read: Champions Trophy 2025: Former captain Rashid Latif slams Pakistan squad as ‘political selection' One of Head’s standout performances came in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 final against India, where he played a match-winning innings of 137 runs. His heroics helped Australia lift their sixth ODI World Cup title. Additionally, he has been a key player in the Test format, producing impactful innings in the Ashes series and beyond. Head’s ability to perform under pressure and on big occasions has set him apart from his peers. His aggressive yet calculated batting style has provided Australia with a dependable middle-order option, capable of changing the course of a match. The Allan Border Medal, Australia’s highest individual cricketing honor, is awarded based on performances across Tests, ODIs, and T20Is. Given his contributions in all three formats, Head is among the frontrunners for the award. Haddin emphasized that Head’s consistency and leadership on the field make him a deserving candidate. “He has been phenomenal for Australia, delivering in crucial moments. He’s not just scoring runs but also influencing matches with his presence,” Haddin added. With his recent performances, Travis Head has strengthened his claim to the Allan Border Medal, and many believe he could be the rightful recipient of Australian cricket’s top individual accolade. (With inputs from agencies)

'Travis Head emerging as Allan Border Medal favourite', says former Aus cricketer Brad Haddin

Australia&rsquo;s Travis Head is all set to return to the opener&rsquo;s position as they take on Sri Lanka in the opening match of the two-match Test series starting Wednesday (Jan 29). Head, who played a pivotal role in Australia&rsquo;s 3-1 series win over India in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy recently, will open alongside Usman Khawaja. The decision comes on the eve of the opening contest in the two-match series which will start on Wednesday at the Galle International Stadium in Galle. <o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Travis Head to open alongside Khawaja<o:p></o:p></h2>
"Trav will go to the top, outside of that I think it will be pretty stable," Australia skipper Steve Smith told reporters prior to Australia's final pre-Test training session.<o:p></o:p>
"I don't see it being a great deal of change from that.<o:p></o:p>
"The selectors liked what they saw in India when he (Head) had that opportunity.<o:p></o:p>
"He got after the new ball, scored quickly and put the pressure on them straight away so I guess similar thinking here."<o:p></o:p>
Head&rsquo;s promotion up the order could mean Sam Konstas and Nathan McSweeney might miss the contest against Sri Lanka. The former was impressive in his two outings against India while McSweeney failed to make the most of his opportunities in the same series.
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-ranji-trophy-return-delhi-railways-contest-unlikely-to-be-telecasted-live-streamed-report-8659828" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Virat Kohli Ranji Trophy return: Delhi-Railways contest unlikely to be telecasted, live streamed - Report</a>
One of the reasons for Head&rsquo;s promotion up the order could be influenced by World Test Championship (WTC) final preparations. The Aussie batter has excelled in his role as opener in the ODI and T20I format and could replicate the same in Test format. His track record in ICC finals has been impressive having scored 163 in the 2023 WTC final followed by a 137-run knock in the ODI World Cup final.<o:p></o:p>
Despite having a tradition of announcing their Playing XI on the eve of the Test matches, Cricket Australia refrained from the announcement this time. The team led by Steve Smith will announce the Playing XI at the spin of the coin on Wednesday.<o:p></o:p>

Sports, Cricket: Australia’s Travis Head is all set to return to the opener’s position as they take on Sri Lanka in the opening match of the two-match Test series. 

Australia’s Travis Head is all set to return to the opener’s position as they take on Sri Lanka in the opening match of the two-match Test series starting Wednesday (Jan 29). Head, who played a pivotal role in Australia’s 3-1 series win over India in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy recently, will open alongside Usman Khawaja. The decision comes on the eve of the opening contest in the two-match series which will start on Wednesday at the Galle International Stadium in Galle. Travis Head to open alongside Khawaja "Trav will go to the top, outside of that I think it will be pretty stable," Australia skipper Steve Smith told reporters prior to Australia's final pre-Test training session. "I don't see it being a great deal of change from that. "The selectors liked what they saw in India when he (Head) had that opportunity. "He got after the new ball, scored quickly and put the pressure on them straight away so I guess similar thinking here." Head’s promotion up the order could mean Sam Konstas and Nathan McSweeney might miss the contest against Sri Lanka. The former was impressive in his two outings against India while McSweeney failed to make the most of his opportunities in the same series. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli Ranji Trophy return: Delhi-Railways contest unlikely to be telecasted, live streamed - Report One of the reasons for Head’s promotion up the order could be influenced by World Test Championship (WTC) final preparations. The Aussie batter has excelled in his role as opener in the ODI and T20I format and could replicate the same in Test format. His track record in ICC finals has been impressive having scored 163 in the 2023 WTC final followed by a 137-run knock in the ODI World Cup final. Despite having a tradition of announcing their Playing XI on the eve of the Test matches, Cricket Australia refrained from the announcement this time. The team led by Steve Smith will announce the Playing XI at the spin of the coin on Wednesday.

SL vs AUS, 1st Test: Travis Head to open alongside Usman Khawaja in Galle Test, confirms Cricket Australia

Star Australian batter <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/travis-head" rel="dofollow">Travis Head</a> was rumoured to be opening against Sri Lanka in the two away Tests starting Wednesday (Jan 29) in Galle, but the left-hander squashed any report of the team management approaching him for the same. He, however, confirmed that talks of &lsquo;role flexibility&rsquo; within the camp have already begun, with Australia willing to play brave cricket to find ways to succeed in the subcontinent.
Australia has nothing to lose, having sealed a spot in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/wtc-final-2025" rel="dofollow">WTC Final 2025</a>, they wish to make the most of their tour to the Island Nation, perhaps to work on preparing a blueprint to succeed against spin. For that, they are working on a few things, which Head didn&rsquo;t spill any beans on, but admitted that change in approach and bringing flexibility to the batting order is one parameter discussed.
"It's been a topic of conversation for the last little bit in this team on whether the Australian first innings, second innings, why doesn't the order change? Why can't we be flexible? What moves? How can we be brave? That hasn't played out as such yet. Is this the tour to do it? We'll wait and see.&nbsp;
&ldquo;I feel like this group's experienced enough and got some really good players that can play in different roles and in different situations of the game, we may draw on different people," the Test vice-captain said to the reporters in Galle.
Travis made the team&rsquo;s goal clear - to win the Test match, and if they were to change the approach and standard line-up, the visitors would be willing to.&nbsp;
"All you're trying to do is line it up to be flexible around what can win a Test match. If that lends itself to being more traditional on Day One, and what's not to say when it does turn and gets extreme, the order may change. A lot's being drawn to me at the moment and where I may bat, but that may be different to everyone," he added.
<h2>How can Australia take advantage?</h2>
Australia has several batting veterans in their ranks who have seen this game grow with them, alongside a newcomer &ndash;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/sam-konstas" rel="dofollow">Sam Konstas</a> - who made heads turn during the concluded BGT Down Under
Mentioning how quickly the game is evolving and that the teams must adapt and change swiftly, Head said Australia is open to making necessary&nbsp;changes to taste success in tougher conditions.
"I think people (within the team) are open to it. The game's evolving. I don't think anyone would've seen Sam Konstas lapping in the first session of a Test match. The game is evolving so why not continue to see where we can make jumps and leaps and where can we get an advantage?&nbsp;
&ldquo;If that's using people in different positions, it's not traditionally done a hell of a lot, we haven't done it yet, but does this tour lend itself to that? I think this team's experienced enough and in a great position where players will be open to that if needed to be. We'll wait and see," Head said.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: Head confirmed that talks of ‘role flexibility’ within the camp have already begun, with Australia willing to play brave cricket to find ways to succeed in SL. 

Star Australian batter Travis Head was rumoured to be opening against Sri Lanka in the two away Tests starting Wednesday (Jan 29) in Galle, but the left-hander squashed any report of the team management approaching him for the same. He, however, confirmed that talks of ‘role flexibility’ within the camp have already begun, with Australia willing to play brave cricket to find ways to succeed in the subcontinent. Australia has nothing to lose, having sealed a spot in the WTC Final 2025, they wish to make the most of their tour to the Island Nation, perhaps to work on preparing a blueprint to succeed against spin. For that, they are working on a few things, which Head didn’t spill any beans on, but admitted that change in approach and bringing flexibility to the batting order is one parameter discussed. "It's been a topic of conversation for the last little bit in this team on whether the Australian first innings, second innings, why doesn't the order change? Why can't we be flexible? What moves? How can we be brave? That hasn't played out as such yet. Is this the tour to do it? We'll wait and see. “I feel like this group's experienced enough and got some really good players that can play in different roles and in different situations of the game, we may draw on different people," the Test vice-captain said to the reporters in Galle. Travis made the team’s goal clear - to win the Test match, and if they were to change the approach and standard line-up, the visitors would be willing to. "All you're trying to do is line it up to be flexible around what can win a Test match. If that lends itself to being more traditional on Day One, and what's not to say when it does turn and gets extreme, the order may change. A lot's being drawn to me at the moment and where I may bat, but that may be different to everyone," he added. How can Australia take advantage? Australia has several batting veterans in their ranks who have seen this game grow with them, alongside a newcomer – Sam Konstas - who made heads turn during the concluded BGT Down Under Mentioning how quickly the game is evolving and that the teams must adapt and change swiftly, Head said Australia is open to making necessary changes to taste success in tougher conditions. "I think people (within the team) are open to it. The game's evolving. I don't think anyone would've seen Sam Konstas lapping in the first session of a Test match. The game is evolving so why not continue to see where we can make jumps and leaps and where can we get an advantage? “If that's using people in different positions, it's not traditionally done a hell of a lot, we haven't done it yet, but does this tour lend itself to that? I think this team's experienced enough and in a great position where players will be open to that if needed to be. We'll wait and see," Head said. (With inputs from agencies)

Travis Head confirms ‘role flexibility’ talks within camp ahead of SL Tests

Jasprit Bumrah, remember the name!
The ace Indian quick has been on a rampage Down Under since day one of this tour, picking 29 wickets in four contested matches thus far. On day four of the ongoing Boxing Day Test at the iconic MCG, Bumrah triggered Australia&rsquo;s collapse after lunch, picking three wickets in two overs, including bagging his 200th Test wicket in Travis Head on just one.
He first removed opener Sam Konstas, bowled on eight before making merry in the first over his second spell, picking up dangerous Head and under-firing Mitchell Marsh.&nbsp;
While Head&rsquo;s wicket, caught on the square leg on one, was his 200th Test scalp - becoming the fourth quickest to reach the milestone regarding balls bowled (8484), Marsh&rsquo;s dismissal was a testament to his status as perhaps the best bowler of his time.
<h3>Watch Video &ndash;</h3>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m5929v6d-rtva0ymb-5n2us9xr">
Jasprit Bumrah takes his 200th Test wicket and follows it up with 201 just moments later!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MilestoneMoment?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MilestoneMoment</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/nrmainsurance?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nrmainsurance</a> <a href="https://t.co/NpiXDBaVDI">pic.twitter.com/NpiXDBaVDI</a>
&mdash; cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1873203596919025985?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2024</a></blockquote>
Those two wickets also saw him becoming the fastest Indian to 200 wickets in this format, besides doing it with the best bowling average of all time (19.56). However, Bumrah didn&rsquo;t stop there, removing keeper-batter Alex Carey next (on two) in his following over to reduce Australia to 91 for six in their second innings.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-social-media-in-awe-of-best-ever-jasprit-bumrahs-test-milestone-at-mcg-8574641" rel="dofollow">BGT - Social media in awe of Jasprit Bumrah&rsquo;s Test milestone at MCG</a>
<h2>India on top at the &lsquo;G&rsquo;</h2>
India began day four on 358 for nine, with centurion Nitish Kumar Reddy and Mohammed Siraj at the crease. The visitors could add 11 runs to their overnight tally before veteran spinner Nathan Lyon accounted for Reddy on 114, wrapping up India&rsquo;s innings on 369.&nbsp;
With the 105-run lead, Australia hoped to make the most of it but knew weathering the Bumrah storm would be their toughest challenge, and it unfolded that way.
Unlike how the debutant Konstas reverse ramped Bumrah for fours and a six in the first innings, he failed to replicate the same in the second. Looking clueless against the best seamer in world cricket, Konstas fell prey to Bumrah&rsquo;s seed in the seventh over, with the Indian quick tearing through his middle stump.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m592ajpt-oqr9jkgn-7lcgzr2h">
MIDDLE STUMP! Jasprit Bumrah gets Sam Konstas with a pearler. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DeliveredWithSpeed?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DeliveredWithSpeed</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/NBN_Australia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NBN_Australia</a> <a href="https://t.co/A1BzrcHJB8">pic.twitter.com/A1BzrcHJB8</a>
&mdash; cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1873158270518468857?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2024</a></blockquote>
Usman Khawaja stood his ground for good ten overs before Siraj&rsquo;s incoming delivery got the better of him, dismissing him for 21. Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith played through lunch, with India winning the session hands down.
In the second session, Siraj gave India a massive breakthrough in Smith, picking his second of the day. That wicket, however, was the turning point of the Australian innings, with them losing three quick wickets soon after, denting their momentum.&nbsp;

Seamer Jasprit Bumrah is the quickest Indian to 200 wickets in this format, besides doing it with the best bowling average of all time (19.56).

Jasprit Bumrah, remember the name! The ace Indian quick has been on a rampage Down Under since day one of this tour, picking 29 wickets in four contested matches thus far. On day four of the ongoing Boxing Day Test at the iconic MCG, Bumrah triggered Australia’s collapse after lunch, picking three wickets in two overs, including bagging his 200th Test wicket in Travis Head on just one. He first removed opener Sam Konstas, bowled on eight before making merry in the first over his second spell, picking up dangerous Head and under-firing Mitchell Marsh. While Head’s wicket, caught on the square leg on one, was his 200th Test scalp - becoming the fourth quickest to reach the milestone regarding balls bowled (8484), Marsh’s dismissal was a testament to his status as perhaps the best bowler of his time. Watch Video – Jasprit Bumrah takes his 200th Test wicket and follows it up with 201 just moments later!#AUSvIND | #MilestoneMoment | @nrmainsurance pic.twitter.com/NpiXDBaVDI — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 29, 2024 Those two wickets also saw him becoming the fastest Indian to 200 wickets in this format, besides doing it with the best bowling average of all time (19.56). However, Bumrah didn’t stop there, removing keeper-batter Alex Carey next (on two) in his following over to reduce Australia to 91 for six in their second innings. Also Read: BGT - Social media in awe of Jasprit Bumrah’s Test milestone at MCG India on top at the ‘G’ India began day four on 358 for nine, with centurion Nitish Kumar Reddy and Mohammed Siraj at the crease. The visitors could add 11 runs to their overnight tally before veteran spinner Nathan Lyon accounted for Reddy on 114, wrapping up India’s innings on 369. With the 105-run lead, Australia hoped to make the most of it but knew weathering the Bumrah storm would be their toughest challenge, and it unfolded that way. Unlike how the debutant Konstas reverse ramped Bumrah for fours and a six in the first innings, he failed to replicate the same in the second. Looking clueless against the best seamer in world cricket, Konstas fell prey to Bumrah’s seed in the seventh over, with the Indian quick tearing through his middle stump. MIDDLE STUMP! Jasprit Bumrah gets Sam Konstas with a pearler. #AUSvIND | #DeliveredWithSpeed | @NBN_Australia pic.twitter.com/A1BzrcHJB8 — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 29, 2024 Usman Khawaja stood his ground for good ten overs before Siraj’s incoming delivery got the better of him, dismissing him for 21. Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith played through lunch, with India winning the session hands down. In the second session, Siraj gave India a massive breakthrough in Smith, picking his second of the day. That wicket, however, was the turning point of the Australian innings, with them losing three quick wickets soon after, denting their momentum.

BGT, MCG Test: Bumrah becomes quickest Indian to 200 Test wickets

Australia received a massive boost for the Boxing Day Test against India in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy after Travis Head was declared fit to play.

Cricket Australia management announced on Christmas Day that Head will be available for selection despite complaining of quad strain after the Gabba Test.

As reported by WION on Tuesday, Sam Konstas will also make his debut for Australia in the traditional MCG contest, which will bring the curtains down on the Test calendar.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
JUST IN: Australia's XI for the Boxing Day blockbuster is locked in | <a href="https://twitter.com/LouisDBCameron?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LouisDBCameron</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/uILWQn8JJl">https://t.co/uILWQn8JJl</a>
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1871701432556261815?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 24, 2024</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>

<h2>Head declared fit for Boxing Day Test</h2>

With a place in the World Test Championship (WTC) final up for grabs, Australia were eager to get Head into their Playing XI subject to a fitness test. After tests&nbsp;on Wednesday morning, Head was declared fit and will participate in the Boxing Day Test on Thursday at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). His fitness will be a boost for the management, considering his form for the side in the series, with two hundreds.

"Trav's good to go, he'll play," Aussie skipper Pat Cummins said. "He just ticked off some final things today and yesterday. But no worries about injury with Trav. He'll go into the game fully fit.

"I don't think you'll see too much management of him throughout the game. He just kind of plays as is. Maybe around fielding, if he's a bit uncomfortable, we will (manage him), but he's fully fit."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/former-india-batter-vinod-kambli-thanks-sachin-tendulkar-for-his-blessings-as-he-battles-ailing-health-786539">Former India batter Vinod Kambli thanks Sachin Tendulkar for 'his blessings' as he battles ailing health</a>

<h2>Australia make two changes</h2>

In two changes made for the MCG Test, 19-year-old Sam Konstas is set to make his debut for Australia as the youngest-ever opener for the hosts, replacing out-of-favour Nathan McSweeney. The other change sees Scott Boland replace injured Josh Hazlewood with the former returning after playing the pink-ball Test in Adelaide.

Australia Playing XI: Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Mitch Marsh, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland

Australia received a massive boost for the Boxing Day Test against India in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy after Travis Head was declared fit to play. Cricket Australia management announced on Christmas Day that Head will be available for selection despite complaining of quad strain after the Gabba Test.

Australia received a massive boost for the Boxing Day Test against India in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy after Travis Head was declared fit to play. Cricket Australia management announced on Christmas Day that Head will be available for selection despite complaining of quad strain after the Gabba Test. As reported by WION on Tuesday, Sam Konstas will also make his debut for Australia in the traditional MCG contest, which will bring the curtains down on the Test calendar. JUST IN: Australia's XI for the Boxing Day blockbuster is locked in | @LouisDBCameron #AUSvIND https://t.co/uILWQn8JJl — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 24, 2024 × Head declared fit for Boxing Day Test With a place in the World Test Championship (WTC) final up for grabs, Australia were eager to get Head into their Playing XI subject to a fitness test. After tests on Wednesday morning, Head was declared fit and will participate in the Boxing Day Test on Thursday at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). His fitness will be a boost for the management, considering his form for the side in the series, with two hundreds. "Trav's good to go, he'll play," Aussie skipper Pat Cummins said. "He just ticked off some final things today and yesterday. But no worries about injury with Trav. He'll go into the game fully fit. "I don't think you'll see too much management of him throughout the game. He just kind of plays as is. Maybe around fielding, if he's a bit uncomfortable, we will (manage him), but he's fully fit." ALSO READ | Former India batter Vinod Kambli thanks Sachin Tendulkar for 'his blessings' as he battles ailing health Australia make two changes In two changes made for the MCG Test, 19-year-old Sam Konstas is set to make his debut for Australia as the youngest-ever opener for the hosts, replacing out-of-favour Nathan McSweeney. The other change sees Scott Boland replace injured Josh Hazlewood with the former returning after playing the pink-ball Test in Adelaide. Australia Playing XI: Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Mitch Marsh, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland

BGT 2024/25: Travis Head declared fit for Boxing Day Test as Australia announce Playing XI; Konstas to debut

Melbourne, Australia
Australia received a massive boost for the Boxing Day Test against India in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy after Travis Head was declared fit to play.
Cricket Australia management announced on Christmas Day that Head will be available for selection despite complaining of quad strain after the Gabba Test.
As reported by WION on Tuesday, Sam Konstas will also make his debut for Australia in the traditional MCG contest, which will bring the curtains down on the Test calendar.
<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
JUST IN: Australia's XI for the Boxing Day blockbuster is locked in | <a href="https://twitter.com/LouisDBCameron?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LouisDBCameron</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/uILWQn8JJl">https://t.co/uILWQn8JJl</a>
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1871701432556261815?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 24, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>
<h2>Head declared fit for Boxing Day Test</h2>
With a place in the World Test Championship (WTC) final up for grabs, Australia were eager to get Head into their Playing XI subject to a fitness test. After tests on Wednesday morning, Head was declared fit and will participate in the Boxing Day Test on Thursday at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). His fitness will be a boost for the management, considering his form for the side in the series, with two hundreds.
"Trav's good to go, he'll play," Aussie skipper Pat Cummins said. "He just ticked off some final things today and yesterday. But no worries about injury with Trav. He'll go into the game fully fit.
"I don't think you'll see too much management of him throughout the game. He just kind of plays as is. Maybe around fielding, if he's a bit uncomfortable, we will (manage him), but he's fully fit."
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/former-india-batter-vinod-kambli-thanks-sachin-tendulkar-for-his-blessings-as-he-battles-ailing-health-786539">Former India batter Vinod Kambli thanks Sachin Tendulkar for 'his blessings' as he battles ailing health</a>
<h2>Australia make two changes</h2>
In two changes made for the MCG Test, 19-year-old Sam Konstas is set to make his debut for Australia as the youngest-ever opener for the hosts, replacing out-of-favour Nathan McSweeney. The other change sees Scott Boland replace injured Josh Hazlewood with the former returning after playing the pink-ball Test in Adelaide.
Australia Playing XI: Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Mitch Marsh, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland

Cricket Australia management announced on Christmas Day that Travis Head will be available for selection despite complaining of a quad strain after the Gabba Test. As reported by WION on Tuesday, Sam Konstas will also make his debut for Australia in the traditional MCG contest, which drops curtains on the Test calendar



Melbourne, Australia Australia received a massive boost for the Boxing Day Test against India in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy after Travis Head was declared fit to play. Cricket Australia management announced on Christmas Day that Head will be available for selection despite complaining of quad strain after the Gabba Test. As reported by WION on Tuesday, Sam Konstas will also make his debut for Australia in the traditional MCG contest, which will bring the curtains down on the Test calendar. JUST IN: Australia's XI for the Boxing Day blockbuster is locked in | @LouisDBCameron #AUSvIND https://t.co/uILWQn8JJl — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 24, 2024 × Head declared fit for Boxing Day Test With a place in the World Test Championship (WTC) final up for grabs, Australia were eager to get Head into their Playing XI subject to a fitness test. After tests on Wednesday morning, Head was declared fit and will participate in the Boxing Day Test on Thursday at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). His fitness will be a boost for the management, considering his form for the side in the series, with two hundreds. "Trav's good to go, he'll play," Aussie skipper Pat Cummins said. "He just ticked off some final things today and yesterday. But no worries about injury with Trav. He'll go into the game fully fit. "I don't think you'll see too much management of him throughout the game. He just kind of plays as is. Maybe around fielding, if he's a bit uncomfortable, we will (manage him), but he's fully fit." ALSO READ | Former India batter Vinod Kambli thanks Sachin Tendulkar for 'his blessings' as he battles ailing health Australia make two changes In two changes made for the MCG Test, 19-year-old Sam Konstas is set to make his debut for Australia as the youngest-ever opener for the hosts, replacing out-of-favour Nathan McSweeney. The other change sees Scott Boland replace injured Josh Hazlewood with the former returning after playing the pink-ball Test in Adelaide. Australia Playing XI: Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Mitch Marsh, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland

Australia head coach Andrew McDonald has confirmed Sam Konstas’ debut for the Boxing Day Test match in Melbourne as the hosts prepare for redemption against India. Speaking on Christmas Eve, McDonald confirmed the inclusion of the New South Wales batter who was drafted in as replacement for Nathan McSweeney.

Meanwhile,&nbsp;Travis Head’s inclusion is subject to fitness tests.&nbsp;He had suffered quad strain while playing in the Gabba Test, keeping his participation in Melbourne uncertain.&nbsp;

<h2>Konstas to debut at MCG</h2>

With the Boxing Day Test set to start on Thursday (Dec 26), Australia have made wholesale changes to their Playing XI with NSW’s Konstas getting the nod ahead of McSweeney.

The former failed to make a mark in his three matches with the side in Perth, Adelaide and Brisbane, having scored only 72 runs in six innings.

On Friday, McSweeney’s exclusion was confirmed by the selectors as Konstas was drafted into the 13-man squad alongside Jhye Richardson.

At 19, Konstas remains an unfinished product as he looks to fill in the shoes of now-retired David Warner in the side.

The youngster debuted in first-class cricket only in November 2023 and has been a promising star for New South Wales.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-2024-25-meet-tanush-kotian-the-mumbai-all-rounder-who-replaces-ravi-ashwin-in-last-two-tests-786263">BGT 2024-25: Meet Tanush Kotian - the Mumbai all-rounder who replaces Ravi Ashwin in last two Tests</a>

<h2>Australia search for redemption</h2>

India have a proud recent record at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), having avoided defeats on their last three defeats.

Interestingly, India have won the last two Tests at the venue under the leadership of Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane respectively.

Under MS Dhoni’s leadership, India drew the 2014 Boxing Day Test while Australia’s last win came in the 2011-12 Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

Australia squad: Pat Cummins (c), Sean Abbott, Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Travis Head (vc), Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Marsh, Jhye Richardson, Steve Smith (vc), Mitchell Starc, Beau Webster

Australia head coach Andrew McDonald has confirmed Sam Konstas’ debut for the Boxing Day Test match in Melbourne as the hosts prepare for redemption against India.

Australia head coach Andrew McDonald has confirmed Sam Konstas’ debut for the Boxing Day Test match in Melbourne as the hosts prepare for redemption against India. Speaking on Christmas Eve, McDonald confirmed the inclusion of the New South Wales batter who was drafted in as replacement for Nathan McSweeney. Meanwhile, Travis Head’s inclusion is subject to fitness tests. He had suffered quad strain while playing in the Gabba Test, keeping his participation in Melbourne uncertain. Konstas to debut at MCG With the Boxing Day Test set to start on Thursday (Dec 26), Australia have made wholesale changes to their Playing XI with NSW’s Konstas getting the nod ahead of McSweeney. The former failed to make a mark in his three matches with the side in Perth, Adelaide and Brisbane, having scored only 72 runs in six innings. On Friday, McSweeney’s exclusion was confirmed by the selectors as Konstas was drafted into the 13-man squad alongside Jhye Richardson. At 19, Konstas remains an unfinished product as he looks to fill in the shoes of now-retired David Warner in the side. The youngster debuted in first-class cricket only in November 2023 and has been a promising star for New South Wales. ALSO READ | BGT 2024-25: Meet Tanush Kotian - the Mumbai all-rounder who replaces Ravi Ashwin in last two Tests Australia search for redemption India have a proud recent record at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), having avoided defeats on their last three defeats. Interestingly, India have won the last two Tests at the venue under the leadership of Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane respectively. Under MS Dhoni’s leadership, India drew the 2014 Boxing Day Test while Australia’s last win came in the 2011-12 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Australia squad: Pat Cummins (c), Sean Abbott, Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Travis Head (vc), Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Marsh, Jhye Richardson, Steve Smith (vc), Mitchell Starc, Beau Webster

BGT 2024/25: Head coach Andrew McDonald confirms Sam Konstas debut for Boxing Day Test; Travis Head uncertain

Melbourne, Australia
Australia head coach Andrew McDonald has confirmed Sam Konstas’ debut for the Boxing Day Test match in Melbourne as the hosts prepare for redemption against India. Speaking on Christmas Eve, McDonald confirmed the inclusion of the New South Wales batter who was drafted in as replacement for Nathan McSweeney.
Meanwhile, Travis Head’s inclusion is subject to fitness tests. He had suffered quad strain while playing in the Gabba Test, keeping his participation in Melbourne uncertain. 
<h2>Konstas to debut at MCG</h2>
With the Boxing Day Test set to start on Thursday (Dec 26), Australia have made wholesale changes to their Playing XI with NSW’s Konstas getting the nod ahead of McSweeney.
The former failed to make a mark in his three matches with the side in Perth, Adelaide and Brisbane, having scored only 72 runs in six innings.
On Friday, McSweeney’s exclusion was confirmed by the selectors as Konstas was drafted into the 13-man squad alongside Jhye Richardson.
At 19, Konstas remains an unfinished product as he looks to fill in the shoes of now-retired David Warner in the side.
The youngster debuted in first-class cricket only in November 2023 and has been a promising star for New South Wales.
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-2024-25-meet-tanush-kotian-the-mumbai-all-rounder-who-replaces-ravi-ashwin-in-last-two-tests-786263">BGT 2024-25: Meet Tanush Kotian - the Mumbai all-rounder who replaces Ravi Ashwin in last two Tests</a>
<h2>Australia search for redemption</h2>
India have a proud recent record at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), having avoided defeats on their last three defeats.
Interestingly, India have won the last two Tests at the venue under the leadership of Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane respectively.
Under MS Dhoni’s leadership, India drew the 2014 Boxing Day Test while Australia’s last win came in the 2011-12 Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
Australia squad: Pat Cummins (c), Sean Abbott, Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Travis Head (vc), Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Marsh, Jhye Richardson, Steve Smith (vc), Mitchell Starc, Beau Webster

Speaking on Christmas Eve, Andrew McDonald confirmed the inclusion of the New South Wales batter Sam Konstas who was drafted in as a replacement for Nathan McSweeney. On the other hand, Travis Head’s inclusion is subject to fitness tests with his inclusion uncertain for the traditional Test match in Melbourne.



Melbourne, Australia Australia head coach Andrew McDonald has confirmed Sam Konstas’ debut for the Boxing Day Test match in Melbourne as the hosts prepare for redemption against India. Speaking on Christmas Eve, McDonald confirmed the inclusion of the New South Wales batter who was drafted in as replacement for Nathan McSweeney. Meanwhile, Travis Head’s inclusion is subject to fitness tests. He had suffered quad strain while playing in the Gabba Test, keeping his participation in Melbourne uncertain. Konstas to debut at MCG With the Boxing Day Test set to start on Thursday (Dec 26), Australia have made wholesale changes to their Playing XI with NSW’s Konstas getting the nod ahead of McSweeney. The former failed to make a mark in his three matches with the side in Perth, Adelaide and Brisbane, having scored only 72 runs in six innings. On Friday, McSweeney’s exclusion was confirmed by the selectors as Konstas was drafted into the 13-man squad alongside Jhye Richardson. At 19, Konstas remains an unfinished product as he looks to fill in the shoes of now-retired David Warner in the side. The youngster debuted in first-class cricket only in November 2023 and has been a promising star for New South Wales. ALSO READ | BGT 2024-25: Meet Tanush Kotian - the Mumbai all-rounder who replaces Ravi Ashwin in last two Tests Australia search for redemption India have a proud recent record at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), having avoided defeats on their last three defeats. Interestingly, India have won the last two Tests at the venue under the leadership of Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane respectively. Under MS Dhoni’s leadership, India drew the 2014 Boxing Day Test while Australia’s last win came in the 2011-12 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Australia squad: Pat Cummins (c), Sean Abbott, Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Travis Head (vc), Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Marsh, Jhye Richardson, Steve Smith (vc), Mitchell Starc, Beau Webster

Melbourne, Australia
Former India coach Ravi Shastri says 'picking up lengths' and 'improvement against short ball' are the reasons Aussie batter Travis Head has become so dangerous. The comments come after Head dominated the three Tests played in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) series against India with two tons and a fifty in five innings.
“I think he is very smart. From what I saw of him three years ago, he has improved immensely. Especially with the way he plays the short ball. He prepared to leave it. He has learned to leave it well at times,” Shastri said on the ICC Review.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/hope-that-you-will-continue-india-pm-narendra-modi-writes-heartfelt-letter-to-ravi-ashwin-on-retirement-785920">'Hope that you will continue...,' Indian PM Narendra Modi writes heartfelt letter to R Ashwin on retirement</a>
“It's not a big shot all the time off a short delivery angled at his armpits or something. He's prepared to either ride it or go for the big shots. And if it is middle, middle and off, then he hits it in front of square as well.
“He picks up length very well. That's one of his great strengths. And he has a flashing blade for the offside. So he's a hard man to contain. And he's in the form of his life,” the former India coach added.
Head has scored 409 runs in the ongoing series at an average of 81 and a highest score of 152. Overall, in the ongoing World Test Championship (WTC) cycle Head has scored 1040 runs in 15 Tests.
The batter, however, is the nemesis of India and has hit runs on all the big occasions against them. Head had hit a century against India in the WTC 2023 Final, ODI World Cup 2023 Final and most recently in the second and third Tests of BGT.
India bowlers have mostly found themselves clueless against his counter-attacking style and Head has run away with the game by blasting the bowlers.

Head has scored 409 runs in the ongoing series at an average of 81 and a highest score of 152. Overall, in the ongoing World Test Championship (WTC) cycle Head has scored 1040 runs in 15 Tests.



Melbourne, Australia Former India coach Ravi Shastri says 'picking up lengths' and 'improvement against short ball' are the reasons Aussie batter Travis Head has become so dangerous. The comments come after Head dominated the three Tests played in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) series against India with two tons and a fifty in five innings. “I think he is very smart. From what I saw of him three years ago, he has improved immensely. Especially with the way he plays the short ball. He prepared to leave it. He has learned to leave it well at times,” Shastri said on the ICC Review. Also Read: 'Hope that you will continue...,' Indian PM Narendra Modi writes heartfelt letter to R Ashwin on retirement “It's not a big shot all the time off a short delivery angled at his armpits or something. He's prepared to either ride it or go for the big shots. And if it is middle, middle and off, then he hits it in front of square as well. “He picks up length very well. That's one of his great strengths. And he has a flashing blade for the offside. So he's a hard man to contain. And he's in the form of his life,” the former India coach added. Head has scored 409 runs in the ongoing series at an average of 81 and a highest score of 152. Overall, in the ongoing World Test Championship (WTC) cycle Head has scored 1040 runs in 15 Tests. The batter, however, is the nemesis of India and has hit runs on all the big occasions against them. Head had hit a century against India in the WTC 2023 Final, ODI World Cup 2023 Final and most recently in the second and third Tests of BGT. India bowlers have mostly found themselves clueless against his counter-attacking style and Head has run away with the game by blasting the bowlers.

BGT 2024-25: 'Not a big shot...,' Former India coach Ravi Shastri reveals reasons behind Travis Head's success

travis-head

Travis Head, News on Travis Head, stories on Travis Head, articles on Travis Head, Travis Head stories at Wion, Travis Head news, Travis Head latest news

travis head