Mitchell Starc’s ninth five-for in ODIs helped Australia win the second match against India by ten wickets in Vizag on Sunday. With this win, the three-match series is tied at one-all, while Chennai will host the the decider on March 22nd.

Mitchell Starc’s ninth five-for in ODIs helped Australia win the second match against India by ten wickets in Vizag on Sunday. With this win, the three-match series is tied at one-all, while Chennai will host the the decider on March 22nd. Travis Head and make-shift opener Cameron Green chased down the mere total of 118 in 11 overs. Electing to bowl first after winning the toss, Australia had India’s back against the wall from the word go. After traumatising India in the first ODI with his new ball exploits, Starc began from where he had – accounting for India’s top three inside the fifth over of the innings. Trapping Suryakumar Yadav on a first-ball duck was the highlight of the three. However, soon after Steve Smith plucked a blinder at the first slip to remove Hardik Pandya. Virat Kohli, who scored 31, followed him while Starc and Abbott tore into India’s tail to dismiss them on 117. While Abbott returned with three wickets, veteran Starc picked a five-wicket haul. ALSO READ: IND vs AUS, 2nd ODI: Steve Smith takes a blinder to remove Hardik Pandya - WATCH VIDEO The chase, as expected, went Australia’s way as both openers went berserk. After taking down both Indian seamers with the flood of boundaries inside the first six overs, Mitchell Marsh went after Hardik Pandya, hitting him for three clean massive sixes in this first over. With this, he also completed his fifty off 27 balls. Travis Head then carried the momentum in Axar Patel’s second over by hitting two successive fours. Marsh on the other end didn’t slow down as he whacked left-arm unorthodox Kuldeep Yadav for a monstrous hit over the deep mid wicket area. It was about time before they wrapped up the formalities and handed Australia a massive ten wicket-win in Vizag. Travis Head remained unbeaten 51 off 30 balls hitting ten fours, Mitchell Marsh, the aggressor during this partnership, slammed a 36-ball 66, hitting six sixes and as many fours.

IND vs AUS, 2nd ODI: Mitchell Starc's five-for hands Australia big win in Vizag, series level

India and Australia commenced the fourth and final Test of the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, on Thursday (March 09), at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad. After Steve Smith-led Australia opted to bat first at the coin toss, the Aussie openers Travis Head and Usman Khawaja added 61 runs for the first wicket. However, India could have had their first breakthrough in the sixth over had wicketkeeper-batter KS Bharat held onto a regulation catch.&nbsp;

The incident took place in the sixth over when Umesh Yadav had the ball in hand. He induced an edge off in-form Head and it went straight to Bharat, who has impressed one and all with his keeping skills in the series. However, the 29-year-old made a mess of a simple catch and dropped it. The cameras soon turned towards skipper Rohit Sharma, who had a blank reaction to the mistake from Bharat. Here's the video:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Gussa <a href="https://t.co/BIexaLfsm3">pic.twitter.com/BIexaLfsm3</a>
— javed ansari (@javedan00643948) <a href="https://twitter.com/javedan00643948/status/1633687178013474821?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 9, 2023</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>

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cleaned-up-md-shami-rattles-marnus-labuschagnes-stumps-on-day-1-of-ahmedabad-test-watch-570152">CLEANED UP! Md Shami rattles Marnus Labuschagne's stumps on Day 1 of Ahmedabad Test - Watch</a>

In the first session, Australia managed to get to 75 runs and lost Head and Marnus Labuschagne. Head was given a lifeline when he was batting on five and eventually fell for 32. Labuschagne, on the other hand, saw his stumps being rattled by&nbsp;Md Shami but the visitors had opener Usman Khawaja unbeaten during the lunch break. At the time of publishing this report, Khawaja-Smith have managed to keep Indian bowlers at bay post the lunch break and are moving the scoreboard forward.&nbsp;

Australia will aim for anything over 350 in the four-match Test series decider in Ahmedabad. India lead the series 2-1 but need a win to not only clinch the series but also qualify for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) finale, where Australia have already confirmed a spot.

India and Australia commenced the fourth and final Test of the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, on Thursday (March 09), at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad.

India and Australia commenced the fourth and final Test of the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, on Thursday (March 09), at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad. After Steve Smith-led Australia opted to bat first at the coin toss, the Aussie openers Travis Head and Usman Khawaja added 61 runs for the first wicket. However, India could have had their first breakthrough in the sixth over had wicketkeeper-batter KS Bharat held onto a regulation catch. The incident took place in the sixth over when Umesh Yadav had the ball in hand. He induced an edge off in-form Head and it went straight to Bharat, who has impressed one and all with his keeping skills in the series. However, the 29-year-old made a mess of a simple catch and dropped it. The cameras soon turned towards skipper Rohit Sharma, who had a blank reaction to the mistake from Bharat. Here's the video: Gussa pic.twitter.com/BIexaLfsm3 — javed ansari (@javedan00643948) March 9, 2023 × Also read: CLEANED UP! Md Shami rattles Marnus Labuschagne's stumps on Day 1 of Ahmedabad Test - Watch In the first session, Australia managed to get to 75 runs and lost Head and Marnus Labuschagne. Head was given a lifeline when he was batting on five and eventually fell for 32. Labuschagne, on the other hand, saw his stumps being rattled by Md Shami but the visitors had opener Usman Khawaja unbeaten during the lunch break. At the time of publishing this report, Khawaja-Smith have managed to keep Indian bowlers at bay post the lunch break and are moving the scoreboard forward. Australia will aim for anything over 350 in the four-match Test series decider in Ahmedabad. India lead the series 2-1 but need a win to not only clinch the series but also qualify for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) finale, where Australia have already confirmed a spot.

WATCH: KS Bharat drops a sitter to give a reprieve to Travis Head, Rohit Sharma's blank reaction goes viral

Former Australian opener Matthew Hayden has criticised the decision of dropping Travis Head from the first Test against India in Nagpur which the hosts won by an inning and 132 runs.&nbsp;

"Australia just did not play their best side (in the first Test) – Travis Head should have been just about No.1 picked in that side,” he said as quoted by foxsports.com.au. “He has got wonderful intent to score, his strike rate is enormous. Gets that momentum and that belief in the batting changeroom. He is a mover and a shaker,” he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wpl-2023-mi-w-vs-gg-w-mumbais-harmanpreet-kaur-bowlers-annihilate-gujarat-giants-in-opener-568664">WPL 2023, MI-W vs GG-W: Mumbai's Harmanpreet Kaur, bowlers annihilate Gujarat Giants in opener</a>

The comments come on the back of Head's match-winning 53-ball 49 in the second inning of the third Test in Indore, which the visitors won by 9 wickets.

Notably, Head had scored four fifties and a century against West Indies and South Africa in the home summer before touring India. He was dropped because of Indian spinners' pre-conceived dominance against the left-handed batsmen.

Hayden, however, discarded the ideology and said that his current form should have been the criteria of selection and not the his record in the sub-continent.

“He was brilliant last (Australian) summer. Who cares what happens a few years ago, he was in form! Needed to play that (first) Test. And now he is showing exactly why you pick him,” the former Aussie great said.

Read More:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-mohammed-shami-set-to-return-for-final-test-in-ahmedabad-as-india-eye-spot-in-wtc-final-568603">Mohammed Shami set to return for final Test in Ahmedabad as India eye spot in WTC final</a>

Head, too, gave strong case for the comments to be made as he played a crucial role in helping Australia keep the four-match Border-Gavaskar series alive, which India lead by 2-1. Australia, with their win in Indore, also secured a spot in the World Test Championship final, to be be played in June in England.

Indore pitch, meanwhile, received a poor rating from the International Cricket Council (ICC) as the ball started to turn from the first hour of the Test which got over inside three days.

Batting first after winning the toss, India could managed only 109 runs in the first innings. The hosts although, pulled things back as they restricted Australia's first innings to 197. In the second innings, India again faltered as they got bowled out for 163 and Australia chased the 76-run target for the loss of one wicket only.

The fourth and final Test of the series will be played from March 9 in Ahmedabad.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Former Australian opener Matthew Hayden has criticised the decision of dropping Travis Head from the first Test against India in Nagpur which the hosts won by an inning and 132 runs.

Former Australian opener Matthew Hayden has criticised the decision of dropping Travis Head from the first Test against India in Nagpur which the hosts won by an inning and 132 runs. "Australia just did not play their best side (in the first Test) – Travis Head should have been just about No.1 picked in that side,” he said as quoted by foxsports.com.au. “He has got wonderful intent to score, his strike rate is enormous. Gets that momentum and that belief in the batting changeroom. He is a mover and a shaker,” he added. Also Read: WPL 2023, MI-W vs GG-W: Mumbai's Harmanpreet Kaur, bowlers annihilate Gujarat Giants in opener The comments come on the back of Head's match-winning 53-ball 49 in the second inning of the third Test in Indore, which the visitors won by 9 wickets. Notably, Head had scored four fifties and a century against West Indies and South Africa in the home summer before touring India. He was dropped because of Indian spinners' pre-conceived dominance against the left-handed batsmen. Hayden, however, discarded the ideology and said that his current form should have been the criteria of selection and not the his record in the sub-continent. “He was brilliant last (Australian) summer. Who cares what happens a few years ago, he was in form! Needed to play that (first) Test. And now he is showing exactly why you pick him,” the former Aussie great said. Read More: Mohammed Shami set to return for final Test in Ahmedabad as India eye spot in WTC final Head, too, gave strong case for the comments to be made as he played a crucial role in helping Australia keep the four-match Border-Gavaskar series alive, which India lead by 2-1. Australia, with their win in Indore, also secured a spot in the World Test Championship final, to be be played in June in England. Indore pitch, meanwhile, received a poor rating from the International Cricket Council (ICC) as the ball started to turn from the first hour of the Test which got over inside three days. Batting first after winning the toss, India could managed only 109 runs in the first innings. The hosts although, pulled things back as they restricted Australia's first innings to 197. In the second innings, India again faltered as they got bowled out for 163 and Australia chased the 76-run target for the loss of one wicket only. The fourth and final Test of the series will be played from March 9 in Ahmedabad. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ind vs Aus: Matthew Hayden slams Australia for dropping Travis Head from first Test

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

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

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

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

Australian middle-order batter Travis Head said being dropped for the opening Test in India came as a surprise after "robust" conversations with the selectors, and he was ready to play anywhere in the line-up after being recalled. The 29-year-old aggressive left-hander was left out of the team for the first Test of the four-match series in Nagpur after struggling against spin on the tours of Pakistan and Sri Lanka. But the move came under fire from former players including Steve Waugh and Matthew Hayden.

"It was something that I didn't expect coming here," Head told reporters in New Delhi. "The conversations were robust. Everyone has different opinions. I respect the coaching staff and selectors and I have a strong relationship with them.

"I think that's what made the conversations the way they went, because there's respect that goes both ways and we were able to voice our opinions.

"I woke up the next morning and I'm still on tour playing for Australia, I still get to do what I love to do. I'd love to be competing and playing but there's another way I can support the guys... I still feel like I'm in a great space."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-what-future-holds-for-chennai-super-kings-after-ms-dhoni-leaves-who-will-take-forward-his-legacy-565804">Explained: What future holds for Chennai Super Kings after Dhoni? Who will take forward his legacy?</a>

Head, who scored three half-centuries in Australia's recent home series against South Africa and also impressed against the West Indies, was recalled for the second test in the Indian capital.

Australia went on to lose by six wickets to go 2-0 down in the series but Head scored 12 before top-scoring for his team with 43 in the second innings after being promoted to open the batting with David Warner substituted after suffering a concussion.

"It was a small sample piece, but over here small sample pieces can be a little bit of gold to hopefully push on for the next two tests," Head said. "After missing out in the first Test, I'd bat anywhere that the team needed me to get a game."

The third test begins in Indore on March 1, with the final match in Ahmedabad. The two teams then face off in three one-day internationals beginning March 17.

Australian middle-order batter Travis Head said being dropped for the opening Test in India came as a surprise after "robust" conversations with the selectors, and he was ready to play anywhere in the line-up after being recalled.

Australian middle-order batter Travis Head said being dropped for the opening Test in India came as a surprise after "robust" conversations with the selectors, and he was ready to play anywhere in the line-up after being recalled. The 29-year-old aggressive left-hander was left out of the team for the first Test of the four-match series in Nagpur after struggling against spin on the tours of Pakistan and Sri Lanka. But the move came under fire from former players including Steve Waugh and Matthew Hayden. "It was something that I didn't expect coming here," Head told reporters in New Delhi. "The conversations were robust. Everyone has different opinions. I respect the coaching staff and selectors and I have a strong relationship with them. "I think that's what made the conversations the way they went, because there's respect that goes both ways and we were able to voice our opinions. "I woke up the next morning and I'm still on tour playing for Australia, I still get to do what I love to do. I'd love to be competing and playing but there's another way I can support the guys... I still feel like I'm in a great space." ALSO READ: Explained: What future holds for Chennai Super Kings after Dhoni? Who will take forward his legacy? Head, who scored three half-centuries in Australia's recent home series against South Africa and also impressed against the West Indies, was recalled for the second test in the Indian capital. Australia went on to lose by six wickets to go 2-0 down in the series but Head scored 12 before top-scoring for his team with 43 in the second innings after being promoted to open the batting with David Warner substituted after suffering a concussion. "It was a small sample piece, but over here small sample pieces can be a little bit of gold to hopefully push on for the next two tests," Head said. "After missing out in the first Test, I'd bat anywhere that the team needed me to get a game." The third test begins in Indore on March 1, with the final match in Ahmedabad. The two teams then face off in three one-day internationals beginning March 17.

IND vs AUS: Shocked with his omission in 1st Test, Travis Head ready to bat anywhere in remaining matches

The Australian team was caught in the selection dilemma ahead of the first Test – where they not only dropped their best batter in the past one year Travis Head, but also missed the trick by not playing a left-arm spinner or a leg-spinner on the Nagpur track. As a result, they paid a hefty price as they&nbsp;lost&nbsp;the match an innings and 132 runs. Now for them to redeem themselves in this four-match Test series, they have some selection issues to iron out. As per latest reports in the Australian media, there are talks of dropping veteran batter David Warner for Travis Head for the second Test in Delhi that begins on February 17th.

If not for his dismal outings in the sub-continent or in India in particular, Warner would have gone down as one of Australia’s greatest Test openers. However, his records against India in India are bad enough for anyone who wants to push his case for selection for the next Test.&nbsp;Having played nine Tests in India since 2013, Warner has only managed a mere 399 runs at an average of 22.16. So much so that his dismissals in both innings in Nagpur proved that the attacking left-hander hasn’t learnt much from his past mistakes.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-matthew-kuhnemann-mitchell-starc-to-join-australian-squad-ahead-of-delhi-test-561129">IND vs AUS: Matthew Kuhnemann, Mitchell Starc to join Australian squad ahead of Delhi Test</a>

While Warner returned to form during the home series against the Windies and Proteas, where he scored 525 runs across seven innings including a double hundred in his 100th Test, he has once again come under the radar for the series of poor scores in the sub-continent.

Upset over Warner’s struggling scorecard in this part of the world, the selectors are now believed to be contemplating about benching him for the remainder of Tests, as per a report in Sydney Morning Herald.

Meanwhile, Matt Renshaw, who was picked ahead of Travis Head returned with scores of 0 &amp; 2 in the Nagpur Test, whereas, spin-specialist Peter Handscomb could only manage 37 runs (31, 6) across two outings. Opener Usman Khawaja also failed in both innings – scoring a mere 1 and 5.

On the other hand, pacer Mitchell Starc is set to join the Australian squad in Delhi after recovering from his finger injury, while left-arm orthodox Matt Kuhnemann has also been roped in as replacement of leg-spinner Mitchell Swepson – who returned home for the birth of his first child.

Come the second Test, it would be interesting to see if Australia really remove Warner from the top or give him one more Test.

The Australian team was caught in the selection dilemma ahead of the first Test – where they not only dropped their best batter in the past one year Travis Head, but also missed the trick by not playing a left-arm spinner or a leg-spinner on the Nagpur track.

The Australian team was caught in the selection dilemma ahead of the first Test – where they not only dropped their best batter in the past one year Travis Head, but also missed the trick by not playing a left-arm spinner or a leg-spinner on the Nagpur track. As a result, they paid a hefty price as they lost the match an innings and 132 runs. Now for them to redeem themselves in this four-match Test series, they have some selection issues to iron out. As per latest reports in the Australian media, there are talks of dropping veteran batter David Warner for Travis Head for the second Test in Delhi that begins on February 17th. If not for his dismal outings in the sub-continent or in India in particular, Warner would have gone down as one of Australia’s greatest Test openers. However, his records against India in India are bad enough for anyone who wants to push his case for selection for the next Test. Having played nine Tests in India since 2013, Warner has only managed a mere 399 runs at an average of 22.16. So much so that his dismissals in both innings in Nagpur proved that the attacking left-hander hasn’t learnt much from his past mistakes. ALSO READ: IND vs AUS: Matthew Kuhnemann, Mitchell Starc to join Australian squad ahead of Delhi Test While Warner returned to form during the home series against the Windies and Proteas, where he scored 525 runs across seven innings including a double hundred in his 100th Test, he has once again come under the radar for the series of poor scores in the sub-continent. Upset over Warner’s struggling scorecard in this part of the world, the selectors are now believed to be contemplating about benching him for the remainder of Tests, as per a report in Sydney Morning Herald. Meanwhile, Matt Renshaw, who was picked ahead of Travis Head returned with scores of 0 & 2 in the Nagpur Test, whereas, spin-specialist Peter Handscomb could only manage 37 runs (31, 6) across two outings. Opener Usman Khawaja also failed in both innings – scoring a mere 1 and 5. On the other hand, pacer Mitchell Starc is set to join the Australian squad in Delhi after recovering from his finger injury, while left-arm orthodox Matt Kuhnemann has also been roped in as replacement of leg-spinner Mitchell Swepson – who returned home for the birth of his first child. Come the second Test, it would be interesting to see if Australia really remove Warner from the top or give him one more Test.

Selectors thinking about benching David Warner in second Test, Travis Head could replace him: Reports

Australia’s middle-order batter Travis Head said watching England batters score&nbsp;huge runs&nbsp;in the Test series against Pakistan inspired him to work on his feet movement against spin ahead of the upcoming Border-Gavaskar series, slated to start on February 9th in Nagpur. Currently training in Sydney in a pre-series camp hosted by the team management, Head said on his previous three away tours to Asia he didn’t perform the way he would have liked;&nbsp;adding he wants to feel positive about using his feet against the spin – something he’d be doing more often against Ravi Ashwin-led India’s spin heavy attack.

Speaking to the Sydney Morning Herald ahead of team’s departure for a long India tour, the left-handed batter said against pace his feet work very well but against spin he hasn’t used them in a way that would fetch him more success. Admitting&nbsp;that playing spin in Australia and in Asia are two different things, Head wants to emphasize on working on his feet movement and playing mindset.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-head-coach-worried-about-camerons-green-bowling-load-during-border-gavaskar-series-557000">Australia head coach worried about Cameron's Green bowling load during Border-Gavaskar series</a>

"Watching the way England played in Pakistan, I've probably looked back and wasn't as positive as I'd like to be against spin in those series," Head told Sydney Morning Herald.

"I feel like the way I played throughout this series against spin - I know it's completely different being in Australia - but the more positive I am, the better I am with my feet and the better I am in defence.

"We've seen that with fast bowling this summer. When I hunt the ball, my front foot defence is probably the best it's been and I think I've got to go over there with a positive mindset, not a defensive one," the left-handed batter added.

Though against Pakistan and Sri Lanka on his previous away tours he got a bit defensive against the turning ball, Head&nbsp;feels against India on low and slow tracks he might not get a big score but if he could contribute with healthy 40s and 50s, that could prove to be match-winning as well.

"I think I may have been a bit on the defensive side in Pakistan and Sri Lanka, which you've always got a ball on your name over there. But get over there, we've got a long time to get settled over there, and get the lay of the land and understand what my role might be. It could be low-scoring, it could be high-scoring, you might need to get big scores, or a 40, 50, 60 might win you a Test match," he concluded.

Australia’s middle-order batter Travis Head said watching England batters score huge runs in the Test series against Pakistan inspired him to work on his feet movement against spin ahead of the upcoming Border-Gavaskar series, slated to start on February 9th in Nagpur.

Australia’s middle-order batter Travis Head said watching England batters score huge runs in the Test series against Pakistan inspired him to work on his feet movement against spin ahead of the upcoming Border-Gavaskar series, slated to start on February 9th in Nagpur. Currently training in Sydney in a pre-series camp hosted by the team management, Head said on his previous three away tours to Asia he didn’t perform the way he would have liked; adding he wants to feel positive about using his feet against the spin – something he’d be doing more often against Ravi Ashwin-led India’s spin heavy attack. Speaking to the Sydney Morning Herald ahead of team’s departure for a long India tour, the left-handed batter said against pace his feet work very well but against spin he hasn’t used them in a way that would fetch him more success. Admitting that playing spin in Australia and in Asia are two different things, Head wants to emphasize on working on his feet movement and playing mindset. ALSO READ: Australia head coach worried about Cameron's Green bowling load during Border-Gavaskar series "Watching the way England played in Pakistan, I've probably looked back and wasn't as positive as I'd like to be against spin in those series," Head told Sydney Morning Herald. "I feel like the way I played throughout this series against spin - I know it's completely different being in Australia - but the more positive I am, the better I am with my feet and the better I am in defence. "We've seen that with fast bowling this summer. When I hunt the ball, my front foot defence is probably the best it's been and I think I've got to go over there with a positive mindset, not a defensive one," the left-handed batter added. Though against Pakistan and Sri Lanka on his previous away tours he got a bit defensive against the turning ball, Head feels against India on low and slow tracks he might not get a big score but if he could contribute with healthy 40s and 50s, that could prove to be match-winning as well. "I think I may have been a bit on the defensive side in Pakistan and Sri Lanka, which you've always got a ball on your name over there. But get over there, we've got a long time to get settled over there, and get the lay of the land and understand what my role might be. It could be low-scoring, it could be high-scoring, you might need to get big scores, or a 40, 50, 60 might win you a Test match," he concluded.

Travis Head keen on working on feet movement and deploying positive mindset ahead of India series

Australia, fuelled by hundreds from Travis Head and David Warner, crushed England by 221 runs in the third one-day international&nbsp;to sweep the series in front of largely empty stands at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on Tuesday. Head and Warner forged a 269-run stand, the highest opening partnership at the MCG, as Australia amassed 355-5, the highest total at the venue after two rain interruptions had reduced the game into a 48-overs-a-side affair.

When they returned, spinner Adam Zampa (4-31) led England's rout as the visitors, chasing a revised target of 364 under the Duckworth-Lewis method, were bundled out for 142 in 31.4 overs suffering their heaviest defeat in the 50-overs format. On a day when batting records tumbled at the MCG, only 10,406 fans were present at the stadium which can host 100,000.

"It's been fantastic, all three games," Pat Cummins, his first series in charge of the Australia ODI squad, said. "Everything has really clicked, the bowlers have all wanted to bowl and the batters have been fantastic. Good to finish it off here, that's just about the best ODI I've been a part of."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-new-zealand-final-t20i-tied-on-dls-par-score-hardik-pandya-co-win-series-1-0-536428">India-New Zealand final T20I tied on DLS par score, Hardik Pandya &amp; Co. win series 1-0</a>

Earlier put into bat, Australia got off to a blazing start with Head and Warner relishing the steady supply of short-of-length deliveries by England's jaded attack. Head raced to a 91-ball hundred, his third in one-day internationals, with a four off Chris Woakes and went on to make a career-best 152 which contained four sixes and 16 fours. Warner, who made 106, needed 97 balls to bring up his 19th hundred ending a century drought dating back to early 2020.

Olly Stone (4-85) finally broke the stand in the 39th over dismissing both the openers in a space of four balls.

England, who won the T20 World Cup by beating Pakistan in the Nov. 13 final in Melbourne, were equally lacklustre in their batting. Jason Roy top-scored for them with a battling 33 but they lost wickets at regular intervals and the lack of partnership meant they were never in the chase.

"We tried out best but we've fallen a long way short," England captain Jos Buttler said. "It was always going to be a tough series for us coming off the back of the World Cup..."

Moeen Ali was initially rested but had to step in as a concussion replacement for Phil Salt who hurt himself while fielding.

Australia, fuelled by hundreds from Travis Head and David Warner, crushed England by 221 runs in the third one-day international to sweep the series in front of largely empty stands at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on Tuesday.

Australia, fuelled by hundreds from Travis Head and David Warner, crushed England by 221 runs in the third one-day international to sweep the series in front of largely empty stands at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on Tuesday. Head and Warner forged a 269-run stand, the highest opening partnership at the MCG, as Australia amassed 355-5, the highest total at the venue after two rain interruptions had reduced the game into a 48-overs-a-side affair. When they returned, spinner Adam Zampa (4-31) led England's rout as the visitors, chasing a revised target of 364 under the Duckworth-Lewis method, were bundled out for 142 in 31.4 overs suffering their heaviest defeat in the 50-overs format. On a day when batting records tumbled at the MCG, only 10,406 fans were present at the stadium which can host 100,000. "It's been fantastic, all three games," Pat Cummins, his first series in charge of the Australia ODI squad, said. "Everything has really clicked, the bowlers have all wanted to bowl and the batters have been fantastic. Good to finish it off here, that's just about the best ODI I've been a part of." ALSO READ: India-New Zealand final T20I tied on DLS par score, Hardik Pandya & Co. win series 1-0 Earlier put into bat, Australia got off to a blazing start with Head and Warner relishing the steady supply of short-of-length deliveries by England's jaded attack. Head raced to a 91-ball hundred, his third in one-day internationals, with a four off Chris Woakes and went on to make a career-best 152 which contained four sixes and 16 fours. Warner, who made 106, needed 97 balls to bring up his 19th hundred ending a century drought dating back to early 2020. Olly Stone (4-85) finally broke the stand in the 39th over dismissing both the openers in a space of four balls. England, who won the T20 World Cup by beating Pakistan in the Nov. 13 final in Melbourne, were equally lacklustre in their batting. Jason Roy top-scored for them with a battling 33 but they lost wickets at regular intervals and the lack of partnership meant they were never in the chase. "We tried out best but we've fallen a long way short," England captain Jos Buttler said. "It was always going to be a tough series for us coming off the back of the World Cup..." Moeen Ali was initially rested but had to step in as a concussion replacement for Phil Salt who hurt himself while fielding.

Travis Head's highest ODI score helps Australia blank England in 3rd ODI, win series

Nathan Lyon and part-time spinner Travis Head wrecked Sri Lanka on a treacherous track to help Australia to a 10-wicket win inside three days of the opening test in Galle on Friday. The tourists were in the box seat once they carved out a first innings lead of 109 in the spin-dominated, low-scoring contest at the Galle International Stadium.

Lyon (4-31) combined with spin partner Mitchell Swepson (2-34) to mow down Sri Lanka`s top order and Head polished off their tail to skittle out Sri Lanka for 113 in their second innings. Opener David Warner needed four balls to seal the win, smashing a six off Ramesh Mendis to bring up the victory.

Skipper Dimuth Karunaratne`s 23 was the highest tally on Sri Lanka`s sorry-looking scorecard, with all 10 batsmen dismissed by the spinners. Lyon finished with a match haul of nine wickets but Cameron Green was named man of the match for his score of 77.

Australia captain Pat Cummins was pleased that they mastered difficult conditions to fashion "an amazing win". "Turning up this morning I didn`t think it was going to happen that fast," he said. "We were really clear in our planning how everyone was going to go about it." "I thought the bravery and the proactiveness shown, especially by our batters, was fantastic."

Earlier, Australia had added eight runs to their overnight score before losing their last two wickets and being bowled out for 318. Sri Lanka gave an early indication of how they wanted to bat in their second innings, when their openers milked 17 runs from the opening over off Mitchell Starc. That approach was fraught with risks and when Cummins introduced spin from both ends after three overs, Sri Lanka`s batting order simply caved in.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sl-vs-aus-1st-test-heavy-rain-wreaks-havoc-as-stand-at-galle-stadium-collapses-delays-start-of-day-2-493253">SL vs AUS, 1st Test: Heavy rain wreaks havoc as stand at Galle stadium collapses ahead of Day 2 - WATCH</a>

Karunaratne fell after his attempted sweep against Lyon resulted in a bottom-edge, while opening partner Pathum Nissanka (14) completely missed the ball trying to play the same shot against Swepson. 
Head, who had gone 26 tests without a wicket, also got the ball to turn viciously as he dismissed Dinesh Chandimal and Dhananjaya de Silva in his first over. He struck twice in his third over, too, as Sri Lanka were bundled out in 22.5 overs - their shortest ever completed test innings.

Sri Lanka were without veteran batsman Angelo Mathews who tested positive for COVID-19 on Thursday and was substituted by Oshada Fernando in the second innings. Karunaratne was particularly unhappy with the way Sri Lanka batted in home conditions.

"We`ve been playing in these conditions, we knew it`s going to turn, but the decisions we took were horrible," he said. "Batting in the second innings was not easy, especially against Lyon who was turning the ball heavily. We just wanted to put pressure on him," he said of their ultra-aggressive approach. 
Galle also hosts the second and final test from July 8.

Nathan Lyon and part-time spinner Travis Head wrecked Sri Lanka on a treacherous track to help Australia to a 10-wicket win inside three days of the opening test in Galle on Friday.

Nathan Lyon and part-time spinner Travis Head wrecked Sri Lanka on a treacherous track to help Australia to a 10-wicket win inside three days of the opening test in Galle on Friday. The tourists were in the box seat once they carved out a first innings lead of 109 in the spin-dominated, low-scoring contest at the Galle International Stadium. Lyon (4-31) combined with spin partner Mitchell Swepson (2-34) to mow down Sri Lanka`s top order and Head polished off their tail to skittle out Sri Lanka for 113 in their second innings. Opener David Warner needed four balls to seal the win, smashing a six off Ramesh Mendis to bring up the victory. Skipper Dimuth Karunaratne`s 23 was the highest tally on Sri Lanka`s sorry-looking scorecard, with all 10 batsmen dismissed by the spinners. Lyon finished with a match haul of nine wickets but Cameron Green was named man of the match for his score of 77. Australia captain Pat Cummins was pleased that they mastered difficult conditions to fashion "an amazing win". "Turning up this morning I didn`t think it was going to happen that fast," he said. "We were really clear in our planning how everyone was going to go about it." "I thought the bravery and the proactiveness shown, especially by our batters, was fantastic." Earlier, Australia had added eight runs to their overnight score before losing their last two wickets and being bowled out for 318. Sri Lanka gave an early indication of how they wanted to bat in their second innings, when their openers milked 17 runs from the opening over off Mitchell Starc. That approach was fraught with risks and when Cummins introduced spin from both ends after three overs, Sri Lanka`s batting order simply caved in. ALSO READ | SL vs AUS, 1st Test: Heavy rain wreaks havoc as stand at Galle stadium collapses ahead of Day 2 - WATCH Karunaratne fell after his attempted sweep against Lyon resulted in a bottom-edge, while opening partner Pathum Nissanka (14) completely missed the ball trying to play the same shot against Swepson. Head, who had gone 26 tests without a wicket, also got the ball to turn viciously as he dismissed Dinesh Chandimal and Dhananjaya de Silva in his first over. He struck twice in his third over, too, as Sri Lanka were bundled out in 22.5 overs - their shortest ever completed test innings. Sri Lanka were without veteran batsman Angelo Mathews who tested positive for COVID-19 on Thursday and was substituted by Oshada Fernando in the second innings. Karunaratne was particularly unhappy with the way Sri Lanka batted in home conditions. "We`ve been playing in these conditions, we knew it`s going to turn, but the decisions we took were horrible," he said. "Batting in the second innings was not easy, especially against Lyon who was turning the ball heavily. We just wanted to put pressure on him," he said of their ultra-aggressive approach. Galle also hosts the second and final test from July 8.

Australia crush Sri Lanka after Nathan Lyon and Travis Head's spin web, visitors take 1-0 lead

Pat Cummins-led Australia thrashed England by 146 runs in the fifth and final Ashes Test to claim the series 4-0. The Joe Root-led England's&nbsp;disastrous run in the Ashes 2021/22 edition finally ended, as the Three Lions remain winless Down Under since 2010-11.&nbsp;

With the series done and dusted, Cummins &amp; Co. will look to carry on the momentum and go the distance in the ongoing ICC World Test Championship second cycle. On the other hand, Root-led England have plenty to ponder upon and need to&nbsp;revamp at the earliest in the red-ball format.

After the series ended, Aussie players such as Alex Carey, Player-of-the-Series Travis Head and Nathan Lyon were joined by England captain Root and experienced pacer James Anderson for some drinks. However, as the celebrations got 'too loud', the cricketers were reportedly thrown out of the Hobart brewery.

The players' celebrations were interrupted by the police, who had to intervene and ordered the cricketers to leave the brewery.

In a viral video, the four police officers identified the cricketers and could be heard saying, "Too loud. You have obviously been asked to pack up, so we’ve been asked to come. Time for bed. Thank you." However, no arrests were made.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/there-comes-a-stage-where-you-cant-afridi-opines-on-virat-kohlis-decision-to-quit-test-captaincy-445655">'There comes a stage where you can't...': Afridi opines on Virat Kohli's decision to quit Test captaincy</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Surely the Aust cricket team can have a beer? Whats with the police all of a sudden, in all states <a href="https://t.co/4ITdJX3K0K">pic.twitter.com/4ITdJX3K0K</a>
— Ben Roads 🇦🇺 (@ben_roads) <a href="https://twitter.com/ben_roads/status/1483286548485668865?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2022</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>

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/stuff-of-dreams-pat-cummins-on-leading-australia-to-4-0-win-against-england-in-ashes-2021-22-445208">'Stuff of dreams': Pat Cummins on leading Australia to 4-0 win against England in Ashes 2021-22</a>

After England's shambolic performance, Captain Root said at the post-match presentation, "It's been a frustrating tour, tough tour for us. We have to keep learning to get better. Not go away from here and keep making the same mistakes. Not long before we play Test cricket again and an opportunity to turn things around. It's pretty obvious we need to be putting more runs on the board. Too often we have not given our bowlers enough. We have been outplayed by Australia. Sometimes you have to put your hand up and say a team outplayed us."

On the other hand, Cummins stated, "Really is (stuff of dreams). Pretty crazy. To be at the end of a 5-match series with so many positives and 4-0, yeah really pumped. I am really happy as a captain, not sure if he is (smiles, on not having to bowl Lyon in the entire game). We have had some 15 players used in this series, some tough calls. Certainly feels like we are on to something big."

In the latest WTC points table, Australia are now in the second position -- behind Sri Lanka -- whereas England have slipped to the bottom.

Pat Cummins-led Australia thrashed England by 146 runs in the fifth and final Ashes Test to claim the series 4-0. The Joe Root-led England's disastrous run in the Ashes 2021/22 edition finally ended, as the Three Lions remain winless Down Under since 2010-11.

Pat Cummins-led Australia thrashed England by 146 runs in the fifth and final Ashes Test to claim the series 4-0. The Joe Root-led England's disastrous run in the Ashes 2021/22 edition finally ended, as the Three Lions remain winless Down Under since 2010-11. With the series done and dusted, Cummins & Co. will look to carry on the momentum and go the distance in the ongoing ICC World Test Championship second cycle. On the other hand, Root-led England have plenty to ponder upon and need to revamp at the earliest in the red-ball format. After the series ended, Aussie players such as Alex Carey, Player-of-the-Series Travis Head and Nathan Lyon were joined by England captain Root and experienced pacer James Anderson for some drinks. However, as the celebrations got 'too loud', the cricketers were reportedly thrown out of the Hobart brewery. The players' celebrations were interrupted by the police, who had to intervene and ordered the cricketers to leave the brewery. In a viral video, the four police officers identified the cricketers and could be heard saying, "Too loud. You have obviously been asked to pack up, so we’ve been asked to come. Time for bed. Thank you." However, no arrests were made. ALSO READ | 'There comes a stage where you can't...': Afridi opines on Virat Kohli's decision to quit Test captaincy Surely the Aust cricket team can have a beer? Whats with the police all of a sudden, in all states pic.twitter.com/4ITdJX3K0K — Ben Roads 🇦🇺 (@ben_roads) January 18, 2022 × ALSO READ | 'Stuff of dreams': Pat Cummins on leading Australia to 4-0 win against England in Ashes 2021-22 After England's shambolic performance, Captain Root said at the post-match presentation, "It's been a frustrating tour, tough tour for us. We have to keep learning to get better. Not go away from here and keep making the same mistakes. Not long before we play Test cricket again and an opportunity to turn things around. It's pretty obvious we need to be putting more runs on the board. Too often we have not given our bowlers enough. We have been outplayed by Australia. Sometimes you have to put your hand up and say a team outplayed us." On the other hand, Cummins stated, "Really is (stuff of dreams). Pretty crazy. To be at the end of a 5-match series with so many positives and 4-0, yeah really pumped. I am really happy as a captain, not sure if he is (smiles, on not having to bowl Lyon in the entire game). We have had some 15 players used in this series, some tough calls. Certainly feels like we are on to something big." In the latest WTC points table, Australia are now in the second position -- behind Sri Lanka -- whereas England have slipped to the bottom.

WATCH: Police intervene as Australia get 'too loud' during celebrations after thumping Ashes win

Rain played spollsport as the third session of Day 1 of the fifth Ashes Test between Australia and England ended abruptly, here at Hobart on Friday. At the Stumps on Day 1, Australia's score read 241/6 with Alex Carey and Mitchell Starc currently unbeaten at the crease.

Resuming the third session at 215/5, Mark Wood dismissed Cameron Green on 74 runs as he got caught out by Zak Crawley, with the team's total at 236/6. Carey was then joined by Starc who took the team's total to 241/6 before the rain ended the play on Day 1.

Earlier before the tea break, Travis Head scored his fourth Test hundred but fell on the next ball. For Green, it was back to-back fifties as Australia went past the 200-run mark in the second session.

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/updated-icc-world-test-championship-points-table-after-south-africa-clinch-series-vs-india-at-home-444753">Updated ICC World Test Championship points table after South Africa clinch series vs India at home</a>

After opting to bowl first, England's seamers made the most of the new pink ball, dismissing David Warner and Steve Smith for ducks, plus SCG twin centurion Usman Khawaja for just six.

At 3-12, the home side were reeling, as Ollie Robinson (two wickets) and Stuart Broad (one) did the damage with the ball. However, Marnus Labuschagne and Travis Head opted to fight fire with fire, racing to 3-79 off just 21 overs on the stroke of dinner.

But Broad bowled Marnus round his legs to give England their fourth wicket of the session, seemingly justifying the call from Root to bowl first.

Rain played spollsport as the third session of Day 1 of the fifth Ashes Test between Australia and England ended abruptly, here at Hobart on Friday. At the Stumps on Day 1, Australia's score read 241/6 with Alex Carey and Mitchell Starc currently unbeaten at the crease.

Rain played spollsport as the third session of Day 1 of the fifth Ashes Test between Australia and England ended abruptly, here at Hobart on Friday. At the Stumps on Day 1, Australia's score read 241/6 with Alex Carey and Mitchell Starc currently unbeaten at the crease. Resuming the third session at 215/5, Mark Wood dismissed Cameron Green on 74 runs as he got caught out by Zak Crawley, with the team's total at 236/6. Carey was then joined by Starc who took the team's total to 241/6 before the rain ended the play on Day 1. Earlier before the tea break, Travis Head scored his fourth Test hundred but fell on the next ball. For Green, it was back to-back fifties as Australia went past the 200-run mark in the second session. Read Also | Updated ICC World Test Championship points table after South Africa clinch series vs India at home After opting to bowl first, England's seamers made the most of the new pink ball, dismissing David Warner and Steve Smith for ducks, plus SCG twin centurion Usman Khawaja for just six. At 3-12, the home side were reeling, as Ollie Robinson (two wickets) and Stuart Broad (one) did the damage with the ball. However, Marnus Labuschagne and Travis Head opted to fight fire with fire, racing to 3-79 off just 21 overs on the stroke of dinner. But Broad bowled Marnus round his legs to give England their fourth wicket of the session, seemingly justifying the call from Root to bowl first.

Ashes 2021/22: Rain interrupts play after Travis Head's ton on Day 1 of final Test

Australia batsman Travis Head will miss the fourth Ashes test against England in Sydney next week after testing positive for COVID-19, Cricket Australia said.

Head would remain in Melbourne and isolate for seven days, making him unavailable for the next test beginning on Jan. 5.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-the-end-of-my-career-south-africas-quinton-de-kock-quits-test-cricket-441290">'Not the end of my career': South Africa's Quinton&nbsp;de Kock quits Test cricket</a>

"As part of our testing procedures, we are PCR testing players, their families and our support staff daily," a CA spokesperson said.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Australian batter Travis Head has tested positive to Covid-19 following a routine PCR test. 
 
As a precautionary measure Mitchell Marsh, Nic Maddinson and Josh Inglis have joined the Australian squad as additional cover. 
 
Full statement 👇 <a href="https://t.co/1j6o80qZJI">pic.twitter.com/1j6o80qZJI</a>
— Cricket Australia (@CricketAus) <a href="https://twitter.com/CricketAus/status/1476720568934219779?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 31, 2021</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>

"Unfortunately, Travis returned a positive COVID-19 result earlier today.&nbsp;Thankfully, he is asymptomatic at this stage. We anticipate that he will be available to play in the fifth men's Ashes test in Hobart."

Mitchell Marsh, Nic Maddinson and Josh Inglis have been called in as additional cover.

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-how-india-demolished-south-africa-at-their-fortress-in-centurion-to-go-1-0-up-441187">How India demolished South Africa at their fortress in Centurion to go 1-0 up</a>

Australia have already won the five-match series after victory in Melbourne gave the home side an unassailable 3-0 lead.

Head was instrumental in Australia's win in the first test at the Gabba, scoring 152 runs from 148 balls.

Australia batsman Travis Head will miss the fourth Ashes test against England in Sydney next week after testing positive for COVID-19, Cricket Australia said. Head would remain in Melbourne and isolate for seven days, making him unavailable for the next test beginning on Jan.

Australia batsman Travis Head will miss the fourth Ashes test against England in Sydney next week after testing positive for COVID-19, Cricket Australia said. Head would remain in Melbourne and isolate for seven days, making him unavailable for the next test beginning on Jan. 5. ALSO READ: 'Not the end of my career': South Africa's Quinton de Kock quits Test cricket "As part of our testing procedures, we are PCR testing players, their families and our support staff daily," a CA spokesperson said. Australian batter Travis Head has tested positive to Covid-19 following a routine PCR test. As a precautionary measure Mitchell Marsh, Nic Maddinson and Josh Inglis have joined the Australian squad as additional cover. Full statement 👇 pic.twitter.com/1j6o80qZJI — Cricket Australia (@CricketAus) December 31, 2021 × "Unfortunately, Travis returned a positive COVID-19 result earlier today. Thankfully, he is asymptomatic at this stage. We anticipate that he will be available to play in the fifth men's Ashes test in Hobart." Mitchell Marsh, Nic Maddinson and Josh Inglis have been called in as additional cover. IN PICS | How India demolished South Africa at their fortress in Centurion to go 1-0 up Australia have already won the five-match series after victory in Melbourne gave the home side an unassailable 3-0 lead. Head was instrumental in Australia's win in the first test at the Gabba, scoring 152 runs from 148 balls.

Ashes 2021: Australia suffers big blow as Travis Head tests positive for COVID-19, ruled out of Sydney Test

Australia`s hero in the opening Ashes Test Travis Head has said ahead of the pink-ball game in Adelaide from December 16 that opener David Warner was a "bit sore" after being struck on the ribs by a Mark Wood delivery during his first innings knock of 94, but added that the batting stalwart was in "good space" for the next match. 
 
The hosts have already been hit by injury woes with pace bowler Josh Hazlewood being ruled out of the second Test and his return for the Boxing Day Test at the MCG from December 26 subject to fitness. 
 
Warner, too, didn`t bat in the second innings of the first Test as Australia completed the run-chase of 20 runs in the sixth over to score a nine-wicket win over the Joe Root-led England. 
 
Reports suggest that even while Warner`s ribs are "severely bruised", scans have cleared him of any major injury, thus improving his chances of returning as an opener in the pink-ball Test. 
 
"I`m not sure if he`ll train (on Tuesday night)," Head was quoted as saying by sen.com.au. "I haven`t been around the boys for a couple of days, but I flew home with him a couple of days ago, his family came to Adelaide which is nice, and he felt like he was in a good space. Obviously, he`s a little bit sore. We didn`t take any risks with him. 
 
"He was going to bat, but in the end our bowlers did a fantastic job to give him a day off. I think for him it`s just rest. I think he`s ready to go, so no issues with David," added Head. 
&nbsp;

Australia`s hero in the opening Ashes Test Travis Head has said ahead of the pink-ball game in Adelaide from December 16 that opener David Warner was a "bit sore" after being struck on the ribs by a Mark Wood delivery during his first innings knock of 94, but added that the batting stalwart was in "good space" for the next match.

Australia`s hero in the opening Ashes Test Travis Head has said ahead of the pink-ball game in Adelaide from December 16 that opener David Warner was a "bit sore" after being struck on the ribs by a Mark Wood delivery during his first innings knock of 94, but added that the batting stalwart was in "good space" for the next match. The hosts have already been hit by injury woes with pace bowler Josh Hazlewood being ruled out of the second Test and his return for the Boxing Day Test at the MCG from December 26 subject to fitness. Warner, too, didn`t bat in the second innings of the first Test as Australia completed the run-chase of 20 runs in the sixth over to score a nine-wicket win over the Joe Root-led England. Reports suggest that even while Warner`s ribs are "severely bruised", scans have cleared him of any major injury, thus improving his chances of returning as an opener in the pink-ball Test. "I`m not sure if he`ll train (on Tuesday night)," Head was quoted as saying by sen.com.au. "I haven`t been around the boys for a couple of days, but I flew home with him a couple of days ago, his family came to Adelaide which is nice, and he felt like he was in a good space. Obviously, he`s a little bit sore. We didn`t take any risks with him. "He was going to bat, but in the end our bowlers did a fantastic job to give him a day off. I think for him it`s just rest. I think he`s ready to go, so no issues with David," added Head.

David Warner's ribs are 'severely bruised' but should open in Adelaide: Travis Head

England team has been fined 100% of its match fee and docked&nbsp;five ICC World Test Championship points for maintaining a slow over-rate against Australia in the first Test, which was lost in Brisbane.

The&nbsp;fine&nbsp;was&nbsp;handed&nbsp;by&nbsp;David&nbsp;Boon&nbsp;of&nbsp;the&nbsp;Elite&nbsp;Panel&nbsp;of&nbsp;Match&nbsp;Referees&nbsp;after&nbsp;Joe&nbsp;Root's&nbsp;team&nbsp;was&nbsp;found&nbsp;to&nbsp;be&nbsp;five overs&nbsp;short&nbsp;of&nbsp;the&nbsp;target&nbsp;when&nbsp;time&nbsp;allowances&nbsp;were&nbsp;taken&nbsp;into&nbsp;account.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
England docked World Test Championship points after first <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ashes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ashes</a> Test.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WTC23?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WTC23</a> | More details 👇<a href="https://t.co/I2tWyt1MeD">https://t.co/I2tWyt1MeD</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1469578450365292546?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 11, 2021</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>

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-hopeful-of-cricket-featuring-in-2028-olympics-as-additional-sport-after-ioc-starts-identifying-process-436066">ICC hopeful of cricket featuring in 2028 Olympics as 'additional sport' after IOC starts identifying process</a>

According to Article 2.22 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which deals with minimum over-rate offences, players are penalised 20% of their match fee for each over in which their team fails to bowl in the allocated time.

"In addition, as per Article 16.11.2 of the ICC World Test Championship playing conditions, a side is penalised one point for each over short. Consequently, five World Test Championship points have been deducted from England's points total," the ICC stated in a statement.

Meanwhile, Australia's Travis Head was penalised 15% of his match fee for violating Level 1 of the ICC Code of Conduct.

Head was judged to have violated Article 2.3 of the International Cricket Council's Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which deals with "use of an audible obscenity during an International Match."

In&nbsp;addition,&nbsp;one&nbsp;demerit&nbsp;point&nbsp;has&nbsp;been&nbsp;added&nbsp;to&nbsp;Head's&nbsp;disciplinary&nbsp;record,&nbsp;as&nbsp;this&nbsp;was&nbsp;his&nbsp;first&nbsp;offence&nbsp;in&nbsp;a&nbsp;24-month&nbsp;period.

On&nbsp;Thursday,&nbsp;in&nbsp;the&nbsp;77th&nbsp;over&nbsp;of&nbsp;Australia's&nbsp;first&nbsp;innings,&nbsp;Head&nbsp;used&nbsp;unacceptable&nbsp;words&nbsp;after&nbsp;being&nbsp;defeated&nbsp;by&nbsp;a&nbsp;Ben&nbsp;Stokes&nbsp;pitch.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/updated-world-test-championship-points-table-after-australia-beat-england-in-ashes-opener-at-the-gabba-436053">Updated World Test Championship points table after Australia beat England in Ashes opener at The Gabba</a>

"Head admitted the offence and accepted the sanction proposed by the Match Referee and ratified by the ICC Cricket Operations department as per the COVID-19 interim playing regulations. There was no need for a formal hearing," the statement continued.

The accusations were levelled by on-field umpires Paul Reiffel and Rod Tucker, third umpire Paul Wilson, and fourth official Sam Nogajski.

Level 1 violations result in a minimum of an official reprimand, a maximum penalty of 50% of a player's match fee, and one or two demerit points.

England team has been fined 100% of its match fee and docked five ICC World Test Championship points for maintaining a slow over-rate against Australia in the first Test, which was lost in Brisbane.

England team has been fined 100% of its match fee and docked five ICC World Test Championship points for maintaining a slow over-rate against Australia in the first Test, which was lost in Brisbane. The fine was handed by David Boon of the Elite Panel of Match Referees after Joe Root's team was found to be five overs short of the target when time allowances were taken into account. England docked World Test Championship points after first #Ashes Test.#WTC23 | More details 👇https://t.co/I2tWyt1MeD — ICC (@ICC) December 11, 2021 × ALSO READ: ICC hopeful of cricket featuring in 2028 Olympics as 'additional sport' after IOC starts identifying process According to Article 2.22 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which deals with minimum over-rate offences, players are penalised 20% of their match fee for each over in which their team fails to bowl in the allocated time. "In addition, as per Article 16.11.2 of the ICC World Test Championship playing conditions, a side is penalised one point for each over short. Consequently, five World Test Championship points have been deducted from England's points total," the ICC stated in a statement. Meanwhile, Australia's Travis Head was penalised 15% of his match fee for violating Level 1 of the ICC Code of Conduct. Head was judged to have violated Article 2.3 of the International Cricket Council's Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which deals with "use of an audible obscenity during an International Match." In addition, one demerit point has been added to Head's disciplinary record, as this was his first offence in a 24-month period. On Thursday, in the 77th over of Australia's first innings, Head used unacceptable words after being defeated by a Ben Stokes pitch. ALSO READ: Updated World Test Championship points table after Australia beat England in Ashes opener at The Gabba "Head admitted the offence and accepted the sanction proposed by the Match Referee and ratified by the ICC Cricket Operations department as per the COVID-19 interim playing regulations. There was no need for a formal hearing," the statement continued. The accusations were levelled by on-field umpires Paul Reiffel and Rod Tucker, third umpire Paul Wilson, and fourth official Sam Nogajski. Level 1 violations result in a minimum of an official reprimand, a maximum penalty of 50% of a player's match fee, and one or two demerit points.

Ashes: England penalised five WTC points for slow-over rate, Travis Head fined for 'audible obscenity'

Travis Head smashed a T20-style century to put Australia firmly in control of the first Ashes test on Thursday as England were hit by an injury crisis during a miserable day two in the field at the Gabba.

David Warner fell six runs short of what would have been a fortuitous century but Head kept the blowtorch on with an unbeaten 112 from 95 balls that pushed Australia to 343 for seven, a commanding 196-run lead over England's paltry first innings 147.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
An <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ashes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ashes</a> hundred at the Gabba and what it means 🔥 
 
Take a bow, <a href="https://twitter.com/travishead34?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@travishead34</a> 💪<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WTC23?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WTC23</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvENG</a> <a href="https://t.co/2FhhAsSRO2">pic.twitter.com/2FhhAsSRO2</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1468852955046678530?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 9, 2021</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>

Tail ender Mitchell Starc was 10 not out at the end of a day of sapping heat and humidity in which the problems piled up for Joe Root's England.

Talismanic all-rounder Ben Stokes was all but scratched from the attack by an apparent knee strain in the morning while paceman Ollie Robinson came off the ground after barely getting through one of his overs after tea.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-was-given-2-days-to-resign-as-odi-captain-before-bcci-announced-rohit-as-his-successor-report-435370">Virat Kohli was given 2 days to resign as ODI captain before BCCI announced Rohit as his successor: Report</a>

England bowling coach Jon Lewis would not be drawn on whether Stokes would be able to bowl for the rest of the match.

"Obviously Ben has hurt himself on the field today," he said of Stokes, who was playing his first competitive match since July after taking a mental health break from cricket.

"We'll assess him overnight and see how he pulls up in the morning."

The burden of the attack fell heavily on seamers Mark Wood and Chris Woakes late in the day, while spinner Jack Leach and part-timer Root were feasted on by Head.

Leach conceded 95 runs from his 11 overs and was lucky to pick up a wicket when Marnus Labuschagne fell for 74 slicing straight to point.

NICE POSITION

Head was a rock as he anchored partnerships with debutant wicketkeeper Alex Carey and his captain Pat Cummins. 
He showed plenty of toughness too.

After taking a painful blow to his left forearm from Wood before reaching 50, Head then took another hit from the quick after raising his third test century, the ball pinging off his glove and whacking him on the chin.

"It’s still pinching myself, sort of thing," Head told reporters.

"I can’t quite work out what quite transpired in the last couple of hours. Hopefully we’ve put ourselves in a nice position.

"We've had two great days and in Australia I guess you want to keep guys out there as long as possible."

Warner had earlier marched to the brink of a century after being reprieved three times in the field but was finally out for 94 straight after tea, undone by a slower ball from Robinson that induced a catch in the covers.

Warner and Labuschagne combined for a 156-run partnership which set the platform for Head's late slogging.

The day may have taken a different hue were it not for a controversial tech failure.

Warner was bowled by Stokes for 17 in the morning but it was found to be a no ball on review, with the all-rounder overstepping his mark.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hes-not-much-of-a-captain-chappell-slams-joe-root-after-englands-flop-show-on-day-1-of-ashes-2021-opener-435153">'He’s not much of a captain' - Chappell slams Joe Root after England's flop show on Day 1 of Ashes 2021 opener</a>

TV pictures showed Stokes had overstepped on three successive deliveries before that but he was unable to correct his run-up because none of them were called.

Warner was later dropped in the slips on 48 by Rory Burns, who is having a dreadful test after being bowled first ball of the series on Wednesday by Mitchell Starc.

Veteran opener Warner later went for a suicidal single after hitting straight to bat pad, then slipped over and dropped his bat as he tried to get back to safety.

Haseeb Hameed was just metres away but threw wide of the stumps.

Travis Head smashed a T20-style century to put Australia firmly in control of the first Ashes test on Thursday as England were hit by an injury crisis during a miserable day two in the field at the Gabba.

Travis Head smashed a T20-style century to put Australia firmly in control of the first Ashes test on Thursday as England were hit by an injury crisis during a miserable day two in the field at the Gabba. David Warner fell six runs short of what would have been a fortuitous century but Head kept the blowtorch on with an unbeaten 112 from 95 balls that pushed Australia to 343 for seven, a commanding 196-run lead over England's paltry first innings 147. An #Ashes hundred at the Gabba and what it means 🔥 Take a bow, @travishead34 💪#WTC23 | #AUSvENG pic.twitter.com/2FhhAsSRO2 — ICC (@ICC) December 9, 2021 × Tail ender Mitchell Starc was 10 not out at the end of a day of sapping heat and humidity in which the problems piled up for Joe Root's England. Talismanic all-rounder Ben Stokes was all but scratched from the attack by an apparent knee strain in the morning while paceman Ollie Robinson came off the ground after barely getting through one of his overs after tea. ALSO READ: Virat Kohli was given 2 days to resign as ODI captain before BCCI announced Rohit as his successor: Report England bowling coach Jon Lewis would not be drawn on whether Stokes would be able to bowl for the rest of the match. "Obviously Ben has hurt himself on the field today," he said of Stokes, who was playing his first competitive match since July after taking a mental health break from cricket. "We'll assess him overnight and see how he pulls up in the morning." The burden of the attack fell heavily on seamers Mark Wood and Chris Woakes late in the day, while spinner Jack Leach and part-timer Root were feasted on by Head. Leach conceded 95 runs from his 11 overs and was lucky to pick up a wicket when Marnus Labuschagne fell for 74 slicing straight to point. NICE POSITION Head was a rock as he anchored partnerships with debutant wicketkeeper Alex Carey and his captain Pat Cummins. He showed plenty of toughness too. After taking a painful blow to his left forearm from Wood before reaching 50, Head then took another hit from the quick after raising his third test century, the ball pinging off his glove and whacking him on the chin. "It’s still pinching myself, sort of thing," Head told reporters. "I can’t quite work out what quite transpired in the last couple of hours. Hopefully we’ve put ourselves in a nice position. "We've had two great days and in Australia I guess you want to keep guys out there as long as possible." Warner had earlier marched to the brink of a century after being reprieved three times in the field but was finally out for 94 straight after tea, undone by a slower ball from Robinson that induced a catch in the covers. Warner and Labuschagne combined for a 156-run partnership which set the platform for Head's late slogging. The day may have taken a different hue were it not for a controversial tech failure. Warner was bowled by Stokes for 17 in the morning but it was found to be a no ball on review, with the all-rounder overstepping his mark. ALSO READ: 'He’s not much of a captain' - Chappell slams Joe Root after England's flop show on Day 1 of Ashes 2021 opener TV pictures showed Stokes had overstepped on three successive deliveries before that but he was unable to correct his run-up because none of them were called. Warner was later dropped in the slips on 48 by Rory Burns, who is having a dreadful test after being bowled first ball of the series on Wednesday by Mitchell Starc. Veteran opener Warner later went for a suicidal single after hitting straight to bat pad, then slipped over and dropped his bat as he tried to get back to safety. Haseeb Hameed was just metres away but threw wide of the stumps.

Ashes, 1st Test 2nd day: Travis Head slams quickfire 112* to put Australia in control over England

Ahead of the four-day practice-match between Australia A and India A, batsman Travis Head on Saturday said that Virat Kohli has an unbelievable bowling attack at his disposal.

Head will be leading Australia A in the practice match against India A, and he is looking to gain some much-needed time in the middle."They are a really important couple of games for us, not just as an Australia A squad but also an Australian squad and we want to start putting the Indian guys under pressure," ESPNCricinfo quoted Head as saying.

Head was a part of the Australian squad that lost the four-match Test series against India in 2018-19. India had defeated the hosts 2-1 to gain their first-ever Test series win Down Under.

"It`s the way they were able to back up and support each other, not dissimilar to how we are with our attack, you get through the new ball and someone like [Mohammed] Shami comes on and he`s just so relentless on his length. There was just no rest that, you had to be on for every bowler. That is expected of Test cricket but that was my first real look at a quality attack like that. Those next spells are as strong as their first so you have to be on 100 per cent of the time," Head said.

"I think my game has developed a long way since then. You take confidence from everything you`ve done, you take experiences from every game you`ve played and every team you`ve come up against. Nice to have some memories from that series, but they are an unbelievable bowling attack and being well supported throughout," he added.

Head has played 17 Tests for Australia, and he averages 41.96. The left-handed batsman recently recorded scores of 171 not and 151 in the four matches for South Australia in the Sheffield Shield.

Australia A will be led by Travis Head, and Test regulars Joe Burns and Tim Paine are a part of the squad. Australia`s senior team is led by Paine and the experienced campaigner will be looking to gain some game-time ahead of the four-match Test series against India.

The four-day practice game will be clashing with the second T20I between India and Australia. The Virat Kohli-led side may play some of their regulars in the practice match, and as a result, those players will miss out on the second T20I.

The practice match will be played at the Drummoyne Oval, Sydney. After this match, India will also get much-needed practice with the pink ball ahead of the first Test against Australia. (ANI)

Ahead of the four-day practice-match between Australia A and India A, batsman Travis Head on Saturday said that Virat Kohli has an unbelievable bowling attack at his disposal.

Ahead of the four-day practice-match between Australia A and India A, batsman Travis Head on Saturday said that Virat Kohli has an unbelievable bowling attack at his disposal. Head will be leading Australia A in the practice match against India A, and he is looking to gain some much-needed time in the middle."They are a really important couple of games for us, not just as an Australia A squad but also an Australian squad and we want to start putting the Indian guys under pressure," ESPNCricinfo quoted Head as saying. Head was a part of the Australian squad that lost the four-match Test series against India in 2018-19. India had defeated the hosts 2-1 to gain their first-ever Test series win Down Under. "It`s the way they were able to back up and support each other, not dissimilar to how we are with our attack, you get through the new ball and someone like [Mohammed] Shami comes on and he`s just so relentless on his length. There was just no rest that, you had to be on for every bowler. That is expected of Test cricket but that was my first real look at a quality attack like that. Those next spells are as strong as their first so you have to be on 100 per cent of the time," Head said. "I think my game has developed a long way since then. You take confidence from everything you`ve done, you take experiences from every game you`ve played and every team you`ve come up against. Nice to have some memories from that series, but they are an unbelievable bowling attack and being well supported throughout," he added. Head has played 17 Tests for Australia, and he averages 41.96. The left-handed batsman recently recorded scores of 171 not and 151 in the four matches for South Australia in the Sheffield Shield. Australia A will be led by Travis Head, and Test regulars Joe Burns and Tim Paine are a part of the squad. Australia`s senior team is led by Paine and the experienced campaigner will be looking to gain some game-time ahead of the four-match Test series against India. The four-day practice game will be clashing with the second T20I between India and Australia. The Virat Kohli-led side may play some of their regulars in the practice match, and as a result, those players will miss out on the second T20I. The practice match will be played at the Drummoyne Oval, Sydney. After this match, India will also get much-needed practice with the pink ball ahead of the first Test against Australia. (ANI)

Ind vs Aus: Kohli has unbelievable bowling attack, says Head

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

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

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

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

Joe Burns and Travis Head plundered Australia's first centuries of the home summer Friday in a stirring fightback as they ruthlessly exposed Sri Lanka's inexperienced attack in the second Test at Canberra.

Australian skipper Tim Paine won the toss at the Manuka Oval and put his side in on a flat track conducive to batting, a gambit that paid off after some early wobbles.

At stumps, they were a commanding 384 for four with Burns not out 172 and Kurtis Patterson, who was dropped first ball, on 25.

Head fell for 161 after a 308-run stand with Burns -- Australia's first stand over 200 since Steve Smith and Mitch Marsh achieved the feat in the third Test against England in December 2017.

Vishwa Fernando was the best of the bowlers with 3-99.

On a cool, overcast day, Burns and Head dug Australia out of a hole after they lost Marcus Harris, Usman Khawaja and Marnus Labuschagne cheaply to be in trouble at 28 for three.

After weathering the storm and as the new ball lost its shine, the pair started cashing in on a Sri Lankan attack missing their top bowlers and fieldsmen who put down a host of chances.

Back in the side after being overlooked for the series against Pakistan and India, opener Burns survived a dropped catch on 34, but was otherwise invincible and brought up his fourth Test ton off 147 balls with a single.

His 172 surpassed his previous high score of 170 against New Zealand in 2016.

Burns' knock was the first century for Australia since Khawaja's 141 against Pakistan in Dubai in October and only the second an Australian has scored since the fifth Ashes Test in Sydney almost 13 months ago.

Vice-captain Head soon followed suit, reaching his maiden hundred off 155 balls in his eighth Test with a boundary, capitalising on Dilruwan Perera dropping him on 87.&nbsp;

It puts the pair in prime position to be selected for the Ashes series later this year, with the Canberra Test -- the first-ever in the nation's capital -- Australia's last before their tour of England.&nbsp;

Dire start

Their partnership followed a dire start against a depleted attack and a team they had beaten by an innings and 40 runs in the first Test at Brisbane.

Pace duo Lahiru Kumara and Dushmantha Chameera picked up injuries in that rout, with the inexperienced Kasun Rajitha and Fernando taking their place.

And in a big blow, Suranga Lakmal, their best bowler in Brisbane, was ruled out on the morning of the Test with a stiff back, with debutant Chamika Karunaratne brought in as his replacement.

The three newcomers have only five Tests of experience between them, and they initially rose to the challenge.

Harris fell for 11 in the fourth over with a poorly executed square drive off Fernando caught at point by Karunarante.

The out-of-form Khawaja soon followed, lasting just three balls before offering a lazy jab at an out-swinger from Fernando. He was caught at slip by Kusal Mendis for nought, leaving Australia on 15 for two.

The gloom continued when Karunaratne struck with his fourth ball in Test cricket, removing Labuschagne with an excellent angled delivery for six, caught off a thick edge by Niroshan Dickwella.

Burns watched the carnage at the other end and dug in, playing only the loose balls as he bided his time and waited for the bowlers to wilt.

Head followed a similar pattern with both men accelerating the run rate once the pressure of scoring centuries was past. Head was finally undone by Fernando, who snared him lbw.

Joe Burns and Travis Head plundered Australia's first centuries of the home summer Friday in a stirring fightback as they ruthlessly exposed Sri Lanka's inexperienced attack in the second Test at Canberra.

Joe Burns and Travis Head plundered Australia's first centuries of the home summer Friday in a stirring fightback as they ruthlessly exposed Sri Lanka's inexperienced attack in the second Test at Canberra. Australian skipper Tim Paine won the toss at the Manuka Oval and put his side in on a flat track conducive to batting, a gambit that paid off after some early wobbles. At stumps, they were a commanding 384 for four with Burns not out 172 and Kurtis Patterson, who was dropped first ball, on 25. Head fell for 161 after a 308-run stand with Burns -- Australia's first stand over 200 since Steve Smith and Mitch Marsh achieved the feat in the third Test against England in December 2017. Vishwa Fernando was the best of the bowlers with 3-99. On a cool, overcast day, Burns and Head dug Australia out of a hole after they lost Marcus Harris, Usman Khawaja and Marnus Labuschagne cheaply to be in trouble at 28 for three. After weathering the storm and as the new ball lost its shine, the pair started cashing in on a Sri Lankan attack missing their top bowlers and fieldsmen who put down a host of chances. Back in the side after being overlooked for the series against Pakistan and India, opener Burns survived a dropped catch on 34, but was otherwise invincible and brought up his fourth Test ton off 147 balls with a single. His 172 surpassed his previous high score of 170 against New Zealand in 2016. Burns' knock was the first century for Australia since Khawaja's 141 against Pakistan in Dubai in October and only the second an Australian has scored since the fifth Ashes Test in Sydney almost 13 months ago. Vice-captain Head soon followed suit, reaching his maiden hundred off 155 balls in his eighth Test with a boundary, capitalising on Dilruwan Perera dropping him on 87. It puts the pair in prime position to be selected for the Ashes series later this year, with the Canberra Test -- the first-ever in the nation's capital -- Australia's last before their tour of England. Dire start Their partnership followed a dire start against a depleted attack and a team they had beaten by an innings and 40 runs in the first Test at Brisbane. Pace duo Lahiru Kumara and Dushmantha Chameera picked up injuries in that rout, with the inexperienced Kasun Rajitha and Fernando taking their place. And in a big blow, Suranga Lakmal, their best bowler in Brisbane, was ruled out on the morning of the Test with a stiff back, with debutant Chamika Karunaratne brought in as his replacement. The three newcomers have only five Tests of experience between them, and they initially rose to the challenge. Harris fell for 11 in the fourth over with a poorly executed square drive off Fernando caught at point by Karunarante. The out-of-form Khawaja soon followed, lasting just three balls before offering a lazy jab at an out-swinger from Fernando. He was caught at slip by Kusal Mendis for nought, leaving Australia on 15 for two. The gloom continued when Karunaratne struck with his fourth ball in Test cricket, removing Labuschagne with an excellent angled delivery for six, caught off a thick edge by Niroshan Dickwella. Burns watched the carnage at the other end and dug in, playing only the loose balls as he bided his time and waited for the bowlers to wilt. Head followed a similar pattern with both men accelerating the run rate once the pressure of scoring centuries was past. Head was finally undone by Fernando, who snared him lbw.

AUSvsSL, 2nd Test: Joe Burns, Travis Head put Australia in control against Sri Lanka

Travis Head matched his highest Test score but missed out on a century as Australia moved to within 15 runs of India after the first innings, leaving the opening Test in Adelaide on a knife-edge Saturday. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Batting on his home ground, Head made 72 before nicking a Mohammed Shami delivery to wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant after adding 11 to his overnight 61.

It signalled a quick end to the Australian innings, with the last wicket rapidly following and lunch called as rain came down before India's batsmen could get to the crease.

Australia made 235, in reply to India's 250. They started the day at 191-7.

After two days of stifling hot conditions, a change rolled in Saturday and play began <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/rains-halts-play-in-australia-india-1st-test-on-third-day-182336">45 minutes late in gloomy conditions</a>, with the ground's lights on.

It only lasted 3.4 overs before the drizzle began again and the umpires called the players off after Mitchell Starc was caught behind by Pant, getting a thin edge to a Jasprit Bumrah delivery.

He added seven runs to his overnight eight.

Play resumed after an hour with Nathan Lyon accompanying Head, who looked on track to better his previous best Test score against Pakistan in October.

But he was enticed into prodding at a Shami ball and was out to deny him the chance of a maiden ton in his third Test.

Josh Hazlewood came to the crease but was gone first ball, again to the Shami-Pant combination, leaving Nathan Lyon unbeaten after a quick-fire 24, including a six.

For India, Ravichandran Ashwin finished with 3-57 and Jasprit Bumrah had 3-47.

Travis Head matched his highest Test score but missed out on a century as Australia moved to within 15 runs of India after the first innings, leaving the opening Test in Adelaide on a knife-edge Saturday.

Travis Head matched his highest Test score but missed out on a century as Australia moved to within 15 runs of India after the first innings, leaving the opening Test in Adelaide on a knife-edge Saturday. Batting on his home ground, Head made 72 before nicking a Mohammed Shami delivery to wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant after adding 11 to his overnight 61. It signalled a quick end to the Australian innings, with the last wicket rapidly following and lunch called as rain came down before India's batsmen could get to the crease. Australia made 235, in reply to India's 250. They started the day at 191-7. After two days of stifling hot conditions, a change rolled in Saturday and play began 45 minutes late in gloomy conditions, with the ground's lights on. It only lasted 3.4 overs before the drizzle began again and the umpires called the players off after Mitchell Starc was caught behind by Pant, getting a thin edge to a Jasprit Bumrah delivery. He added seven runs to his overnight eight. Play resumed after an hour with Nathan Lyon accompanying Head, who looked on track to better his previous best Test score against Pakistan in October. But he was enticed into prodding at a Shami ball and was out to deny him the chance of a maiden ton in his third Test. Josh Hazlewood came to the crease but was gone first ball, again to the Shami-Pant combination, leaving Nathan Lyon unbeaten after a quick-fire 24, including a six. For India, Ravichandran Ashwin finished with 3-57 and Jasprit Bumrah had 3-47.

INDvsAUS, 1st Test, Day 3: Match on knife-edge with Australia 15 runs behind India

Australia's pacemen hit back with two late wickets after India's batsmen started positively to push Virat Kohli's team to 101-run lead at tea on day three of the first test on Saturday.

Josh Hazlewood had Lokesh Rahul caught behind for 44 after pace spearhead Starc dismissed Murali Vijay for 18 to end a 63-run opening stand at Adelaide Oval, after the home side were bowled out for 235 in the rain-hit first session.

Number three Cheteshwar Pujara was 11 not out, with captain Kohli on two, and an intriguing test match delicately poised under a cloudy sky.

Protecting India's first innings total of 250, Kohli's bowlers did well to carve out an initial 15-run lead, getting through Australia's final three wickets for the cost of 44 runs after the home side resumed on 191 for seven following a rain-delayed start.

India seamer Mohammed Shami was on a hat-trick after claiming the final two wickets of batsman Travis Head (72) and number 11 Josh Hazlewood (0) in successive balls.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
1000 Test runs for <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> in Australia. 
 
He is the 4th Indian to achieve this feat 😎😎 <a href="https://t.co/65hdfHx5GQ">pic.twitter.com/65hdfHx5GQ</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1071290937706450944?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Starc was the first wicket to fall, caught behind off seamer Jasprit Bumrah, who finished with 3-47.

Nathan Lyon was left 24 not out, having played a handy cameo with Head.

Dismissed for two in the first innings to extend a lean run of scores, Rahul came out with positive intent and saw off Starc and Hazlewood's opening spell before taking to Pat Cummins.

He smashed a drive for six over deep cover off Australia's first-change bowler and another square drive for four in the same over.

The recalled Vijay was never quite so settled, however, and he was out for 18 chasing a wider delivery that was caught by Peter Handscomb at second slip.

Pujara, who scored a sparkling 123 to rescue India in their first innings total of 250, was given out after an appeal for caught behind off Lyon but over-turned the decision on review.

Australia's disappointment was short-lived, however, as Rahul threw away his wicket moments later with an ill-advised swipe at a Hazlewood which served only to send a nick flying through to wicketkeeper-captain Tim Paine.

Australia's pacemen hit back with two late wickets after India's batsmen started positively to push Virat Kohli's team to 101-run lead at tea on day three of the first test on Saturday.

Australia's pacemen hit back with two late wickets after India's batsmen started positively to push Virat Kohli's team to 101-run lead at tea on day three of the first test on Saturday. Josh Hazlewood had Lokesh Rahul caught behind for 44 after pace spearhead Starc dismissed Murali Vijay for 18 to end a 63-run opening stand at Adelaide Oval, after the home side were bowled out for 235 in the rain-hit first session. Number three Cheteshwar Pujara was 11 not out, with captain Kohli on two, and an intriguing test match delicately poised under a cloudy sky. Protecting India's first innings total of 250, Kohli's bowlers did well to carve out an initial 15-run lead, getting through Australia's final three wickets for the cost of 44 runs after the home side resumed on 191 for seven following a rain-delayed start. India seamer Mohammed Shami was on a hat-trick after claiming the final two wickets of batsman Travis Head (72) and number 11 Josh Hazlewood (0) in successive balls. 1000 Test runs for @imVkohli in Australia. He is the 4th Indian to achieve this feat 😎😎 pic.twitter.com/65hdfHx5GQ — BCCI (@BCCI) December 8, 2018 × Starc was the first wicket to fall, caught behind off seamer Jasprit Bumrah, who finished with 3-47. Nathan Lyon was left 24 not out, having played a handy cameo with Head. Dismissed for two in the first innings to extend a lean run of scores, Rahul came out with positive intent and saw off Starc and Hazlewood's opening spell before taking to Pat Cummins. He smashed a drive for six over deep cover off Australia's first-change bowler and another square drive for four in the same over. The recalled Vijay was never quite so settled, however, and he was out for 18 chasing a wider delivery that was caught by Peter Handscomb at second slip. Pujara, who scored a sparkling 123 to rescue India in their first innings total of 250, was given out after an appeal for caught behind off Lyon but over-turned the decision on review. Australia's disappointment was short-lived, however, as Rahul threw away his wicket moments later with an ill-advised swipe at a Hazlewood which served only to send a nick flying through to wicketkeeper-captain Tim Paine.

INDvsAUS, 1st Test, Day 3: India at 146-2 after 55 overs, lead by 161 runs

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

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

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

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

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