<p>England pacer Ollie Robinson has recalled a chat he had with Usman Khawaja in the first Test match against Australia as the two were seen in a heated discussion. Khawaja was dismissed by Robinson on Day 2 of the first Test in Edgbaston where both exchanged reactions in the consequence of the dismissals. The Aussie opener was dismissed for 141 which saw the visitors set a base for the win in Edgbaston. Australia won the contest by two wickets in the dying moments of the match as they now lead the Ashes.</p>

<h2><strong>Robinson opens up on Khawaja chat</strong></h2>

<p>"I think in those big moments I sometimes forget where I am. And there’s a thousand cameras on me! I’m not normally an explicit sort of person when I get a wicket, it’s normally just a big roar, or my eyes go a bit crazy. Anyway I’ve definitely learned my lesson!" said Robinson.</p>

<p>The England bowler later admitted that he had learned his lesson and would avoid such circumstances. England were unlucky on the day as they lost the contest in the final session of the match despite having the upper hand at one point in the final session. Australia were 227/8 with still 55 runs needed to win the contest and looked in the driver's&nbsp;seat to take the lead.</p>

<p>However, Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon were resolute with the bat and led the Aussies to a famous win to clinch the Edgbaston contest. Cummins remained unbeaten on 45 while Lyon scored 16 runs to put a match-winning partnership.</p>

<p>"We’ve all seen it with Jimmy [Anderson], Broady, [Glenn] McGrath, Brett Lee. All the bowlers do it when they’re fired up and trying to get a wicket for their team. I spoke to Ussie after as well and we were all good. He was just like, “Mate, just be careful what you say.” It was nothing against him and we had a good chat. He’s a nice guy and I’ve always gotten on well with him, having played against him a few times," said Robinson.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-bell-claims-australia-have-more-to-work-on-despite-cummins-cos-narrow-win-in-edgbaston-607319">Ashes 2023: Bell claims 'Australia have more to work on' despite Cummins &amp; Co.'s narrow win in Edgbaston</a></p>

<h2>Selection headache for Lord’s Test</h2>

<p>The two teams will now meet in the second Test match that kickstarts on Wednesday, June 28 at Lord’s. Both teams are expected to have their selection troubles in the Lord’s Test as Moeen Ali is a doubt while Mitchell Starc will once again face a stern task to reintegrate him into the Playing XI. Josh Hazlewood was given the nod for the opening Test, while Scott Boland is expected to continue as he is in a rich vein of form.</p>

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England pacer Ollie Robinson has recalled a chat he had with Usman Khawaja in the first Test match against Australia as the two were seen in a heated discussion.

England pacer Ollie Robinson has recalled a chat he had with Usman Khawaja in the first Test match against Australia as the two were seen in a heated discussion. Khawaja was dismissed by Robinson on Day 2 of the first Test in Edgbaston where both exchanged reactions in the consequence of the dismissals. The Aussie opener was dismissed for 141 which saw the visitors set a base for the win in Edgbaston. Australia won the contest by two wickets in the dying moments of the match as they now lead the Ashes. Robinson opens up on Khawaja chat "I think in those big moments I sometimes forget where I am. And there’s a thousand cameras on me! I’m not normally an explicit sort of person when I get a wicket, it’s normally just a big roar, or my eyes go a bit crazy. Anyway I’ve definitely learned my lesson!" said Robinson. The England bowler later admitted that he had learned his lesson and would avoid such circumstances. England were unlucky on the day as they lost the contest in the final session of the match despite having the upper hand at one point in the final session. Australia were 227/8 with still 55 runs needed to win the contest and looked in the driver's seat to take the lead. However, Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon were resolute with the bat and led the Aussies to a famous win to clinch the Edgbaston contest. Cummins remained unbeaten on 45 while Lyon scored 16 runs to put a match-winning partnership. "We’ve all seen it with Jimmy [Anderson], Broady, [Glenn] McGrath, Brett Lee. All the bowlers do it when they’re fired up and trying to get a wicket for their team. I spoke to Ussie after as well and we were all good. He was just like, “Mate, just be careful what you say.” It was nothing against him and we had a good chat. He’s a nice guy and I’ve always gotten on well with him, having played against him a few times," said Robinson. ALSO READ | Ashes 2023: Bell claims 'Australia have more to work on' despite Cummins & Co.'s narrow win in Edgbaston Selection headache for Lord’s Test The two teams will now meet in the second Test match that kickstarts on Wednesday, June 28 at Lord’s. Both teams are expected to have their selection troubles in the Lord’s Test as Moeen Ali is a doubt while Mitchell Starc will once again face a stern task to reintegrate him into the Playing XI. Josh Hazlewood was given the nod for the opening Test, while Scott Boland is expected to continue as he is in a rich vein of form. 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.

Ashes 2023: Mate, just be careful what you say - Ollie Robinson recalls big Usman Khawaja moment

<p>Usman Khawaja was Australia's star performer in the first Test of Ashes 2023. In a closely-fought contest, England had the edge for most parts of the game. But Khawaja stood tall for the visitors with brilliant knocks of 141 and 65 as Pat Cummins &amp; Co. held their nerves to win by two wickets and go 1-0 up in the five-match Test series. Opting to bat first, Ben Stokes-led England declared at 393-8, with Joe Root unbeaten on 118, before Khawaja's sublime 141 took the Aussies to 386 all-out. With a seven-run lead, England were dismissed for 273 as they set a challenging 282-run target.</p>

<p>Khawaja got dismissed for 65 in the final session as Australia were reduced to 209 for 7 before an unbroken 55-run ninth-wicket stand skipper Cummins (44 not out) and Nathan Lyon (16 not out) took the Aussies home. Now, the 36-year-old dwelled on Australia's epic win and feels players 'being treated like adults after a long time' in the team environment has helped make a difference.</p>

<h2><strong>'If you are letting the team down in any way, that's on you'</strong></h2>

<p>"It's hard to quantify it (in the wins), but I think everything around that is being done with the team, with Pat and Andrew McDonald in terms of just cutting out the fluff. Cutting out the box-ticking stuff. Really stripping down the game, saying what's important, what do we think is important?" Khawaja told AAP.</p>

<p>"Even warm-ups every morning now are optional, do whatever you need to. That kind of stuff empowers players. It's empowered us. We take onus on ourselves. At the end of the day, you are responsible for your own performance because that in itself impacts the team. If you are letting the team down in any way, that's on you," the Aussie opener opined.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-england-focused-on-entertaining-more-than-winning-1st-test-says-geoffrey-boycott-607345">Ashes 2023: England focused on entertaining more than winning 1st Test, says Geoffrey Boycott</a></strong></p>

<p>"We are all professionals and adults here and think it's the first time for a long time that we've really been treated like adults and that's made a big difference," Khawaja added.</p>

<p>Khawaja's comments come a year after Australia's former head coach Justin Langer's resignation. While Australia enjoyed good success under Langer, he didn't have a smooth ride with the national team, with many raising concerns over his strict approach. In&nbsp;a documentary, Khawaja stated that players were afraid of Langer during Ashes 2019. Since his exit, Andrew McDonald has taken over and by Khawaja's recent admission, it seems the Australian players are now in a much better space in the dressing room.</p>

<p>Ashes 2023 edition's second Test kicks off on June 28 at Lord's. Khawaja-starrer Australia will look to go 2-0 up versus England and get closer to retaining the urn.</p>

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Usman Khawaja was Australia's star performer in the first Test of Ashes 2023. In a closely-fought contest, England had the edge for most parts of the game. But Khawaja stood tall for the visitors with brilliant knocks of 141 and 65 as Pat Cummins & Co.

Usman Khawaja was Australia's star performer in the first Test of Ashes 2023. In a closely-fought contest, England had the edge for most parts of the game. But Khawaja stood tall for the visitors with brilliant knocks of 141 and 65 as Pat Cummins & Co. held their nerves to win by two wickets and go 1-0 up in the five-match Test series. Opting to bat first, Ben Stokes-led England declared at 393-8, with Joe Root unbeaten on 118, before Khawaja's sublime 141 took the Aussies to 386 all-out. With a seven-run lead, England were dismissed for 273 as they set a challenging 282-run target. Khawaja got dismissed for 65 in the final session as Australia were reduced to 209 for 7 before an unbroken 55-run ninth-wicket stand skipper Cummins (44 not out) and Nathan Lyon (16 not out) took the Aussies home. Now, the 36-year-old dwelled on Australia's epic win and feels players 'being treated like adults after a long time' in the team environment has helped make a difference. 'If you are letting the team down in any way, that's on you' "It's hard to quantify it (in the wins), but I think everything around that is being done with the team, with Pat and Andrew McDonald in terms of just cutting out the fluff. Cutting out the box-ticking stuff. Really stripping down the game, saying what's important, what do we think is important?" Khawaja told AAP. "Even warm-ups every morning now are optional, do whatever you need to. That kind of stuff empowers players. It's empowered us. We take onus on ourselves. At the end of the day, you are responsible for your own performance because that in itself impacts the team. If you are letting the team down in any way, that's on you," the Aussie opener opined. Also read: Ashes 2023: England focused on entertaining more than winning 1st Test, says Geoffrey Boycott "We are all professionals and adults here and think it's the first time for a long time that we've really been treated like adults and that's made a big difference," Khawaja added. Khawaja's comments come a year after Australia's former head coach Justin Langer's resignation. While Australia enjoyed good success under Langer, he didn't have a smooth ride with the national team, with many raising concerns over his strict approach. In a documentary, Khawaja stated that players were afraid of Langer during Ashes 2019. Since his exit, Andrew McDonald has taken over and by Khawaja's recent admission, it seems the Australian players are now in a much better space in the dressing room. Ashes 2023 edition's second Test kicks off on June 28 at Lord's. Khawaja-starrer Australia will look to go 2-0 up versus England and get closer to retaining the urn. 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. ×

Ashes 2023 | Being treated like adults by Australia team management has made a difference: Usman Khawaja

<p>England lost the Edgbaston Test by two wickets as Australia gained a 1-0 lead in Ashes 2023. Day 5 of the first Test, on Tuesday (June 20), saw a delayed start due to rain. Australia resumed at 107 for 3, needing another 174 runs for a win. While England reduced them to 227 for 8, skipper Pat Cummins (44 not out) and Nathan Lyon's unbeaten 16 ensured the visitors edged past Ben Stokes &amp; Co. in an absolute thriller at Edgbaston, Birmingham to go 1-0 up in Ashes 2023.</p>

<p>After the thrilling tie, former Australian captain Ricky Ponting questioned England's attacking style of play. Ben Stokes &amp; Co. opted to bat first and declared at 393 for 8 despite Joe Root's 118. While they managed to attain a seven-run lead, many have questioned their declaration. Further, England kept on attacking despite in their second essay and paid the price as they were dismissed for 273, setting a 282-run target for Australia which they chased with two wickets to spare. Thus, Ponting has questioned England's approach and said 'is it going to hold up in an Ashes series'?</p>

<h2><strong>'There is more than one way to skin a cat'</strong></h2>

<p>“I think England have got the most questions to answer. Their style of play, is it going to hold up in an Ashes series?” Ponting said on&nbsp;<i>Sky Sports</i>. “By no means am I saying that England’s method is wrong, I have loved watching them play, but it just goes to show there is more than one way to skin a cat."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-idea-pat-cummins-epic-response-on-2019-headingley-loss-after-australia-conquer-edgbaston-606822">'No idea....': Pat Cummins' epic response on 2019 Headingley loss after Australia conquer Edgbaston</a></strong></p>

<p>“This is a long and hard game. Australia’s method has stood up and it has worked. I want this series to be played the same way and I know Ben and Brendon will play the same way, which adds even more to next week,” the Aussie legend added.</p>

<p>Despite England's loss, captain Stokes backed his declaration call on the opening day and stated that he is proud of the fight shown and entertainment provided by his side in the opening Test, indicating they won't back down from their aggressive approach in the remainder of the series. "A loss is a loss, we said we are going to keep playing this way. This is the way we will continue playing, going hard at Australia, taking certain decisions that feel right," Stokes revealed at the post-match presentation.</p>

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England lost the Edgbaston Test by two wickets as Australia gained a 1-0 lead in Ashes 2023. Day 5 of the first Test, on Tuesday (June 20), saw a delayed start due to rain.

England lost the Edgbaston Test by two wickets as Australia gained a 1-0 lead in Ashes 2023. Day 5 of the first Test, on Tuesday (June 20), saw a delayed start due to rain. Australia resumed at 107 for 3, needing another 174 runs for a win. While England reduced them to 227 for 8, skipper Pat Cummins (44 not out) and Nathan Lyon's unbeaten 16 ensured the visitors edged past Ben Stokes & Co. in an absolute thriller at Edgbaston, Birmingham to go 1-0 up in Ashes 2023. After the thrilling tie, former Australian captain Ricky Ponting questioned England's attacking style of play. Ben Stokes & Co. opted to bat first and declared at 393 for 8 despite Joe Root's 118. While they managed to attain a seven-run lead, many have questioned their declaration. Further, England kept on attacking despite in their second essay and paid the price as they were dismissed for 273, setting a 282-run target for Australia which they chased with two wickets to spare. Thus, Ponting has questioned England's approach and said 'is it going to hold up in an Ashes series'? 'There is more than one way to skin a cat' “I think England have got the most questions to answer. Their style of play, is it going to hold up in an Ashes series?” Ponting said on Sky Sports. “By no means am I saying that England’s method is wrong, I have loved watching them play, but it just goes to show there is more than one way to skin a cat." Also Read: 'No idea....': Pat Cummins' epic response on 2019 Headingley loss after Australia conquer Edgbaston “This is a long and hard game. Australia’s method has stood up and it has worked. I want this series to be played the same way and I know Ben and Brendon will play the same way, which adds even more to next week,” the Aussie legend added. Despite England's loss, captain Stokes backed his declaration call on the opening day and stated that he is proud of the fight shown and entertainment provided by his side in the opening Test, indicating they won't back down from their aggressive approach in the remainder of the series. "A loss is a loss, we said we are going to keep playing this way. This is the way we will continue playing, going hard at Australia, taking certain decisions that feel right," Stokes revealed at the post-match presentation. 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. ×

'Is it going to hold up?' Ricky Ponting questions England's 'style of play' after Edgbaston thriller

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<p>Following a foul-mouth send-off to Australian opener Usman Khawaja during the first innings of the Edgbaston Test, Ollie Robinson found himself in hot waters. Although sledging and swearing are usual, at least in Ashes, Robinson’s careless remark over how the Aussies will perceive this irked a few legends, including Matthew Hayden and Ricky Ponting.</p>

<p>While Ponting sent a clear warning to Robinson over him bringing his name in his defence during a presser after the third day’s play, Hayden also slammed the English seamer by calling him a ‘forgettable cricketer’.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-ollie-robinsons-latest-remarks-irks-ponting-ex-aussie-captain-issues-warning-607206">Ashes 2023: Ollie Robinson's latest remarks irks Ponting, ex-Aussie captain issues warning</a></p>

<p>After Khawaja scored his maiden hundred on UK soil, Robinson bowled him on 141 off a yorker and gave him a rusty send-off, using cuss words against him. Also, he mentioned how after picking Pat Cummins in the batting order, the English bowlers have three number 11s to deal with – a statement that backfired in the end, as it was the pair of Cummins and Nathan Lyon that helped Australia beat England by two wickets in Edgbaston on the final day.</p>

<p>"That's how you combat England as well. Soon Pat Cummins started coming at Joe Root and hit a couple of sixes," Hayden said in a conversation with Ian Healy, as quoted by Hindustan Times.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Then the other bloke; he's a forgettable cricketer. A fast bowler that is bowling 124 (kph) nude nuts, and he's got a mouth from the south." When Healy asked, "Who, Ollie Robinson?", Hayden replied, "Someone like him, you can just go, 'Brother, I'm coming at ya'."</p>

<h2><strong>‘I don’t care</strong></h2>

<p>While Robinson’s send-off upset a few Aussies, the English seamer didn’t bother much to react to this. Speaking to the media after England dismissed Australia seven runs shy of their first innings total on day three, Robinson said he doesn’t care how his celebration is perceived by the opposite camp. He added he was just elated after picking the big wicket of Usman Khawaja.</p>

<p>"It's my first home Ashes, and to get the big wicket at the time was special for me. I think Uzzie (Khawaja) played unbelievably well. To get that wicket for us as a team at the time was massive. We all want that theatre of the game, don't we? So, I'm here to provide it," he said. "I don't really care how it's perceived, to be honest. It's the Ashes. It's a professional sport. If you can't handle that, what can you handle?"</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the second Test begins at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground on June 28.</p>

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Following a foul-mouth send-off to Australian opener Usman Khawaja during the first innings of the Edgbaston Test, Ollie Robinson found himself in hot waters. Although sledging and swearing are usual, at least in Ashes, Robinson’s careless remark over how the Aussies will perceive this irked a few legends, including Matthew Hayden and Ricky Ponting.

Following a foul-mouth send-off to Australian opener Usman Khawaja during the first innings of the Edgbaston Test, Ollie Robinson found himself in hot waters. Although sledging and swearing are usual, at least in Ashes, Robinson’s careless remark over how the Aussies will perceive this irked a few legends, including Matthew Hayden and Ricky Ponting. While Ponting sent a clear warning to Robinson over him bringing his name in his defence during a presser after the third day’s play, Hayden also slammed the English seamer by calling him a ‘forgettable cricketer’. ALSO READ: Ashes 2023: Ollie Robinson's latest remarks irks Ponting, ex-Aussie captain issues warning After Khawaja scored his maiden hundred on UK soil, Robinson bowled him on 141 off a yorker and gave him a rusty send-off, using cuss words against him. Also, he mentioned how after picking Pat Cummins in the batting order, the English bowlers have three number 11s to deal with – a statement that backfired in the end, as it was the pair of Cummins and Nathan Lyon that helped Australia beat England by two wickets in Edgbaston on the final day. "That's how you combat England as well. Soon Pat Cummins started coming at Joe Root and hit a couple of sixes," Hayden said in a conversation with Ian Healy, as quoted by Hindustan Times. "Then the other bloke; he's a forgettable cricketer. A fast bowler that is bowling 124 (kph) nude nuts, and he's got a mouth from the south." When Healy asked, "Who, Ollie Robinson?", Hayden replied, "Someone like him, you can just go, 'Brother, I'm coming at ya'." ‘I don’t care While Robinson’s send-off upset a few Aussies, the English seamer didn’t bother much to react to this. Speaking to the media after England dismissed Australia seven runs shy of their first innings total on day three, Robinson said he doesn’t care how his celebration is perceived by the opposite camp. He added he was just elated after picking the big wicket of Usman Khawaja. "It's my first home Ashes, and to get the big wicket at the time was special for me. I think Uzzie (Khawaja) played unbelievably well. To get that wicket for us as a team at the time was massive. We all want that theatre of the game, don't we? So, I'm here to provide it," he said. "I don't really care how it's perceived, to be honest. It's the Ashes. It's a professional sport. If you can't handle that, what can you handle?" Meanwhile, the second Test begins at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground on June 28. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Ashes: After Ponting, Hayden slams 'forgettable cricketer' Ollie Robinson for foul-mouth send-off to Khawaja

<p>The Ashes have well and truly begun. With on-field drama, sledges, swearing and yes, cricket too, the English summer has got off to a flying start. Following the first Test at Edgbaston that Australia won by two wickets, England seamer Ollie Robinson was asked about his ‘over-the-top’ reaction after dismissing Usman Khawaja in the first innings, where he visibly abused him. Robinson, in his reply, quoted Ricky Ponting’s example, which didn’t sit well with the former Australian captain.</p>

<p>On day three of the first Test, Robinson clean-bowled Khawaja on 141 on a Yorker,&nbsp;and was heard using cuss words against him as part of the celebration.</p>

<p>Though during the game, Ponting remained tight-lipped while during commentary for Sky Sports, the batting great came down hard on the bowler and the English team in his ICC Review Podcast on Wednesday.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-coach-mccullum-backs-players-despite-narrow-defeat-says-edgbaston-loss-validated-our-style-of-play-607175">Ashes: Coach McCullum backs players despite narrow defeat, says Edgbaston loss 'validated' our style of play</a></p>

<p>Ponting said this new-looking English team is yet to get the taste of what it is about playing against the mighty Aussies in an Ashes series and said if Robinson hasn’t learned from his lessons yet, he surely is a slow learner.</p>

<p>"As I said after Ollie Robinson said what he said, this England cricket team hasn't played against Australia, and they'll find out pretty quickly what playing Ashes cricket and playing against a good Australian cricket team is all about," Ponting said. "And if Robinson hasn't learned that already after last week, then he's a slow learner."</p>

<h2>‘Even Ponting did that before…’</h2>

<p>Following day three play, Robinson, in a tensed presser said he ‘doesn’t care’ on how his reaction is perceived by the Australian, and even went on to mention Ricky Ponting’s name in it, saying, "We've all seen Ricky Ponting, [and] other Aussies do the same to us. Just because the shoe is on the other foot, it's not received well."</p>

<p>Reverting to this, Ponting said it was unusual from Robinson to bring his name like that, but since he had, he would learn quickly on why this shouldn’t happen again.</p>

<p>"Some of the things he had to say - I mean he even brought my name into it, which I felt was a little bit unusual," Ponting said. "But for me, it's water off a duck's back. If he is sitting back thinking about me, then no wonder he bowled like the way that he did in that game, if he's worried about what I did 15 years ago."</p>

<p>Ponting said if the English players were to talk about Australians in an Ashes, they must be backing that with skill set.</p>

<p>"He'll learn pretty quickly that if you're going to talk to Australian cricketers in an Ashes series, then you want to be able to back it up with your skills,” Ponting added.</p>

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The Ashes have well and truly begun. With on-field drama, sledges, swearing and yes, cricket too, the English summer has got off to a flying start. Following the first Test at Edgbaston that Australia won by two wickets, England seamer Ollie Robinson was asked about his ‘over-the-top’ reaction after dismissing Usman Khawaja in the first innings, where he visibly abused him.

The Ashes have well and truly begun. With on-field drama, sledges, swearing and yes, cricket too, the English summer has got off to a flying start. Following the first Test at Edgbaston that Australia won by two wickets, England seamer Ollie Robinson was asked about his ‘over-the-top’ reaction after dismissing Usman Khawaja in the first innings, where he visibly abused him. Robinson, in his reply, quoted Ricky Ponting’s example, which didn’t sit well with the former Australian captain. On day three of the first Test, Robinson clean-bowled Khawaja on 141 on a Yorker, and was heard using cuss words against him as part of the celebration. Though during the game, Ponting remained tight-lipped while during commentary for Sky Sports, the batting great came down hard on the bowler and the English team in his ICC Review Podcast on Wednesday. ALSO READ: Ashes: Coach McCullum backs players despite narrow defeat, says Edgbaston loss 'validated' our style of play Ponting said this new-looking English team is yet to get the taste of what it is about playing against the mighty Aussies in an Ashes series and said if Robinson hasn’t learned from his lessons yet, he surely is a slow learner. "As I said after Ollie Robinson said what he said, this England cricket team hasn't played against Australia, and they'll find out pretty quickly what playing Ashes cricket and playing against a good Australian cricket team is all about," Ponting said. "And if Robinson hasn't learned that already after last week, then he's a slow learner." ‘Even Ponting did that before…’ Following day three play, Robinson, in a tensed presser said he ‘doesn’t care’ on how his reaction is perceived by the Australian, and even went on to mention Ricky Ponting’s name in it, saying, "We've all seen Ricky Ponting, [and] other Aussies do the same to us. Just because the shoe is on the other foot, it's not received well." Reverting to this, Ponting said it was unusual from Robinson to bring his name like that, but since he had, he would learn quickly on why this shouldn’t happen again. "Some of the things he had to say - I mean he even brought my name into it, which I felt was a little bit unusual," Ponting said. "But for me, it's water off a duck's back. If he is sitting back thinking about me, then no wonder he bowled like the way that he did in that game, if he's worried about what I did 15 years ago." Ponting said if the English players were to talk about Australians in an Ashes, they must be backing that with skill set. "He'll learn pretty quickly that if you're going to talk to Australian cricketers in an Ashes series, then you want to be able to back it up with your skills,” Ponting added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Ashes 2023: Ollie Robinson's latest remarks irks Ponting, ex-Aussie captain issues warning

<p>World Test Champions Australia cinched a thrilling win at Edgbaston on Tuesday, June 20 as they beat England at their own game to take a 1-0 lead in the ongoing Ashes. The contest that lasted until the final session of the match saw Aussie batters resist the England bowling attack to hand them their third defeat since Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum took over in June 2022. Aussie batter Usman Khawaja played a super match-winning knock to help his side to the famous two-wicket win.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A phenomenal start to the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ashes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ashes</a> 🔥<br />
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Pat Cummins was the hero in a thrilling finish at Edgbaston 👇<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WTC25?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WTC25</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ENGvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ENGvAUS</a><a href="https://t.co/nZA4P3Iftp">https://t.co/nZA4P3Iftp</a></p>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1671224949594259466?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Australia clinch nail-biter</strong></h2>

<p>Resuming the third session on Day 5 after tea break, Australia were 183/5. Usman Khawaja was batting solidly at 56* and Cameron Green 22*.</p>

<p>England made a comeback after Robinson cleaned up Cameron Green (28). Robinson hit the stumps as Green bat got an inside edge. Australia suffered another blow as England captain Ben Stokes dismissed Khawaja at 65. Australia were 209/7 with two new batters at the crease - Alex Carey and Pat Cummins. Both the batters were playing carefully as one wicket could have turned the tables and England could get their grip on the match.</p>

<p>England's hopes revived in the 81th over when Alex Carey went to the pavillion. Australia were 227/8 needing 54 runs to win with just two wickets in hand.</p>

<p>Cummins and Lyon's resilient half-century partnership took&nbsp;Australia through an intense phase of the game.</p>

<p>Broad (3/64), Robinson (2/43) were top bowlers for England. Moeen, Stokes and Root got one scalp each.</p>

<p>Earlier, coming to bat on Day 5, Australia needed 174 runs to win the first Ashes Test. After the first session was washed, Scott Boland 13 (19)* and Usman Khawaja 34 (81)* started the proceedings for the Aussies who were 107/3.</p>

<p>Stuart Broad struck early and took the wicket of Scott Boland. Boland was sent in as nightwatchman yesterday to save the wicket for Australia.</p>

<p>Scott Boland scored 20 runs. He went on to play a ball on the on-side, which led to an outside edge and the ball carried to the safe gloves of Jonny Bairstow. Australia were in a spot of bother at 121/4.</p>

<p>Travis Head was next on the crease and he carried on with his attacking gameplay, striking three fours.</p>

<p>Moeen Ali took the wicket of Travis Head who was trying to drive away the ball and was caught in the slip by Joe Root. Travis scored 16 runs while hitting three boundaries and half of the Australian team was back in the pavilion at 143.</p>

<p>Usman Khawaja continued to steady the innings and completed his half-century in 143 balls. The duo of Green and Khawaja took Australia through the remainder of the session.</p>

<h2><strong>What happened earlier on?</strong></h2>

<p>On Day 4, England started at 28/2 and were bundled out for 273. Knocks from Joe Root (46), Harry Brook (46) and skipper Ben Stokes (43) and lower order contribution from Ollie Robinson (27) helped England gain a 280-run lead with Australia needing 281 runs to win the match.</p>

<p>Pat Cummins (4/63) and Nathan Lyon (4/80) were the main wicket-takers for the Aussies. Josh Hazlewood and Scott Boland got one wicket each.</p>

<p>In the first innings, Australia were bundled out for 386 and they trailed England by seven runs, who had scored 393 in their first innings after electing to bat and declare.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-usman-khawaja-joins-elite-test-list-becomes-only-second-aussie-batter-in-43-years-to-achieve-rare-feat-606578">Ashes: Usman Khawaja joins elite Test list, becomes only second Aussie batter in 43 years to achieve rare feat</a></p>

<p>Australia were once at 67/3 after David Warner (9), Marnus Labuschagne (0) and Steve Smith (16) were dismissed quickly. Then knocks from Khawaja (141), Alex Carey (66), Travis Head (50) and skipper Pat Cummins (38) had carried the Aussies to a big score, though not big enough to secure a lead.</p>

<p>Ollie Robinson (3/55) and Stuart Broad (3/68) were the pick of the bowlers for England. Moeen Ali picked two scalps while skipper Ben Stokes and James Anderson got one each.</p>

<p>In England's first innings, they had declared at 393/8d on Day 1. Joe Root scored a century (118)*, Zak Crawley and Bairstow smashed half-centuries, scoring 61 and 78 respectively.</p>

<p>Nathan Lyon was the pick of the bowlers in the first innings of England's batting. Hazlewood took two wickets, Scott Boland and Cameron Green picked one-wicket each.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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World Test Champions Australia cinched a thrilling win at Edgbaston on Tuesday, June 20 as they beat England at their own game to take a 1-0 lead in the ongoing Ashes.

World Test Champions Australia cinched a thrilling win at Edgbaston on Tuesday, June 20 as they beat England at their own game to take a 1-0 lead in the ongoing Ashes. The contest that lasted until the final session of the match saw Aussie batters resist the England bowling attack to hand them their third defeat since Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum took over in June 2022. Aussie batter Usman Khawaja played a super match-winning knock to help his side to the famous two-wicket win. A phenomenal start to the #Ashes 🔥 Pat Cummins was the hero in a thrilling finish at Edgbaston 👇#WTC25 | #ENGvAUShttps://t.co/nZA4P3Iftp — ICC (@ICC) June 20, 2023 × Australia clinch nail-biter Resuming the third session on Day 5 after tea break, Australia were 183/5. Usman Khawaja was batting solidly at 56* and Cameron Green 22*. England made a comeback after Robinson cleaned up Cameron Green (28). Robinson hit the stumps as Green bat got an inside edge. Australia suffered another blow as England captain Ben Stokes dismissed Khawaja at 65. Australia were 209/7 with two new batters at the crease - Alex Carey and Pat Cummins. Both the batters were playing carefully as one wicket could have turned the tables and England could get their grip on the match. England's hopes revived in the 81th over when Alex Carey went to the pavillion. Australia were 227/8 needing 54 runs to win with just two wickets in hand. Cummins and Lyon's resilient half-century partnership took Australia through an intense phase of the game. Broad (3/64), Robinson (2/43) were top bowlers for England. Moeen, Stokes and Root got one scalp each. Earlier, coming to bat on Day 5, Australia needed 174 runs to win the first Ashes Test. After the first session was washed, Scott Boland 13 (19)* and Usman Khawaja 34 (81)* started the proceedings for the Aussies who were 107/3. Stuart Broad struck early and took the wicket of Scott Boland. Boland was sent in as nightwatchman yesterday to save the wicket for Australia. Scott Boland scored 20 runs. He went on to play a ball on the on-side, which led to an outside edge and the ball carried to the safe gloves of Jonny Bairstow. Australia were in a spot of bother at 121/4. Travis Head was next on the crease and he carried on with his attacking gameplay, striking three fours. Moeen Ali took the wicket of Travis Head who was trying to drive away the ball and was caught in the slip by Joe Root. Travis scored 16 runs while hitting three boundaries and half of the Australian team was back in the pavilion at 143. Usman Khawaja continued to steady the innings and completed his half-century in 143 balls. The duo of Green and Khawaja took Australia through the remainder of the session. What happened earlier on? On Day 4, England started at 28/2 and were bundled out for 273. Knocks from Joe Root (46), Harry Brook (46) and skipper Ben Stokes (43) and lower order contribution from Ollie Robinson (27) helped England gain a 280-run lead with Australia needing 281 runs to win the match. Pat Cummins (4/63) and Nathan Lyon (4/80) were the main wicket-takers for the Aussies. Josh Hazlewood and Scott Boland got one wicket each. In the first innings, Australia were bundled out for 386 and they trailed England by seven runs, who had scored 393 in their first innings after electing to bat and declare. ALSO READ | Ashes: Usman Khawaja joins elite Test list, becomes only second Aussie batter in 43 years to achieve rare feat Australia were once at 67/3 after David Warner (9), Marnus Labuschagne (0) and Steve Smith (16) were dismissed quickly. Then knocks from Khawaja (141), Alex Carey (66), Travis Head (50) and skipper Pat Cummins (38) had carried the Aussies to a big score, though not big enough to secure a lead. Ollie Robinson (3/55) and Stuart Broad (3/68) were the pick of the bowlers for England. Moeen Ali picked two scalps while skipper Ben Stokes and James Anderson got one each. In England's first innings, they had declared at 393/8d on Day 1. Joe Root scored a century (118)*, Zak Crawley and Bairstow smashed half-centuries, scoring 61 and 78 respectively. Nathan Lyon was the pick of the bowlers in the first innings of England's batting. Hazlewood took two wickets, Scott Boland and Cameron Green picked one-wicket each. (With inputs from agencies) 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.

Ashes 2023: Australia clinch thriller to thump BAZBALL as Khawaja leads World Champions to 2-wicket win

<p>England fast bowler Ollie Robinson has defended his actions on giving Australian Usman Khawaja a send off after taking his wicket on day 3 of the Edgbaston Test in Ashes 2023. Khawaja, who top scored for Australia with 141, was yorked out after shimming down the wicket. Robinson said that he 'doesn't care' after appearing to tell Khawaja 'F*** off, you f**king prick.'</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">SIX catchers in and the plan works 👏<br />
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Khawaja gone for 141.<br />
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COME ON ENGLAND! 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EnglandCricket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EnglandCricket</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ashes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ashes</a> <a href="https://t.co/6MLJcQxzCX">pic.twitter.com/6MLJcQxzCX</a></p>
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/englandcricket/status/1670396254499803137?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 18, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>"It's my first home Ashes and to get the big wicket at the time was special for me," Robinson said at the post match presentation. "I think Uzzie played unbelievably well. To get that wicket for us as a team at the time was massive. We all want that theatre of the game, don't we? So I'm here to provide it."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-james-andersons-bowls-magical-ball-to-dismiss-alex-carey-for-1100th-first-class-wicket-watch-605786">James Anderson bowls MAGICAL ball to dismiss Alex Carey for 1100th First Class wicket | WATCH</a></p>

<p>The fast bowler, who took three wickets in total, was asked if he thinks abusing opposition players is part of the theatre of the game. Robinson replied with a deadpan no and said that it can happen when 'you are in the heat of the moment.'</p>

<p>"No, it's not," Robinson said. "But I think when you're in the heat of the moment and you have the passion of the Ashes, that can happen. We've all seen Ricky Ponting, other Aussies do the same to us. Just because the shoe is on the other foot, it's not received well," he added.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The English press wanted nothing to do with mentioning Ollie Robinson’s abuse of Khawaja.<br />
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Imagine the hysteria if that was one of ours.<br />
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Hopefully the Aussie bowlers pepper this loud mouth with some chin music. <a href="https://t.co/QyvQkHxkNc">pic.twitter.com/QyvQkHxkNc</a></p>
— The Oracle (@BigOtrivia) <a href="https://twitter.com/BigOtrivia/status/1670584402626355201?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>England take 1st innings lead</strong></h2>

<p>After dismissing Khawaja, who had added 34 runs with skipper Pat Cummins for the seventh wicket after Alex Carey's fall, England were all over Kangaroos. Australia could add only 14 runs more after Khawaja's wicket and were all out for 386 in their first innings, handing England a seven-run lead. Stuart Broad and Robinson took three wickets each for England.</p>

<h2><strong>Australia ahead at end of day 3</strong></h2>

<p>The third day saw rain halting the play before lunch as Ben Duckett and Zak Crawley looked set to build on the marginal seven-run lead for England. The players returned for a short while before the play was eventually called off. Australia, however, took advantage of overcast conditions in that short passage and sent back both English openers. The hosts currently are at 28/2 and lead by 35 runs.</p>

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England fast bowler Ollie Robinson has defended his actions on giving Australian Usman Khawaja a send off after taking his wicket on day 3 of the Edgbaston Test in Ashes 2023.

England fast bowler Ollie Robinson has defended his actions on giving Australian Usman Khawaja a send off after taking his wicket on day 3 of the Edgbaston Test in Ashes 2023. Khawaja, who top scored for Australia with 141, was yorked out after shimming down the wicket. Robinson said that he 'doesn't care' after appearing to tell Khawaja 'F*** off, you f**king prick.' SIX catchers in and the plan works 👏 Khawaja gone for 141. COME ON ENGLAND! 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 #EnglandCricket | #Ashes pic.twitter.com/6MLJcQxzCX — England Cricket (@englandcricket) June 18, 2023 × "It's my first home Ashes and to get the big wicket at the time was special for me," Robinson said at the post match presentation. "I think Uzzie played unbelievably well. To get that wicket for us as a team at the time was massive. We all want that theatre of the game, don't we? So I'm here to provide it." Also Read: James Anderson bowls MAGICAL ball to dismiss Alex Carey for 1100th First Class wicket | WATCH The fast bowler, who took three wickets in total, was asked if he thinks abusing opposition players is part of the theatre of the game. Robinson replied with a deadpan no and said that it can happen when 'you are in the heat of the moment.' "No, it's not," Robinson said. "But I think when you're in the heat of the moment and you have the passion of the Ashes, that can happen. We've all seen Ricky Ponting, other Aussies do the same to us. Just because the shoe is on the other foot, it's not received well," he added. The English press wanted nothing to do with mentioning Ollie Robinson’s abuse of Khawaja. Imagine the hysteria if that was one of ours. Hopefully the Aussie bowlers pepper this loud mouth with some chin music. pic.twitter.com/QyvQkHxkNc — The Oracle (@BigOtrivia) June 19, 2023 × England take 1st innings lead After dismissing Khawaja, who had added 34 runs with skipper Pat Cummins for the seventh wicket after Alex Carey's fall, England were all over Kangaroos. Australia could add only 14 runs more after Khawaja's wicket and were all out for 386 in their first innings, handing England a seven-run lead. Stuart Broad and Robinson took three wickets each for England. Australia ahead at end of day 3 The third day saw rain halting the play before lunch as Ben Duckett and Zak Crawley looked set to build on the marginal seven-run lead for England. The players returned for a short while before the play was eventually called off. Australia, however, took advantage of overcast conditions in that short passage and sent back both English openers. The hosts currently are at 28/2 and lead by 35 runs. 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.

Ashes 2023: England's Ollie Robinson defends sledging Usman Khawaja on day 3

<p>After seven days of uninterrupted play in the UK in the previous two games – including the WTC Final and now the ongoing first Ashes Test in Edgbaston, the rain finally made its presence felt. Day three between England and Australia ended with the hosts reeling at 28 for two in the second innings, leading by 35 runs.</p>

<p>In Australia’s first innings, the touring side got all out on 386 as Stuart Broad and Ollie Robinson picked three wickets each.</p>

<p>Day three started with centurion Usman Khawaja and keeper-batter Alex Carey continuing from where they left the other day and even completed a 100-plus stand for the sixth wicket.</p>

<p>Veteran seamer James Anderson broke the partnership, dismissing Carey clean bowled on 66 off 99 balls. With this, Anderson also picked up his record 1100th first-class wicket.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/west-indies-zimbabwe-earn-crucial-win-over-minnows-in-world-cup-qualifiers-605828">West Indies, Zimbabwe earn crucial win over minnows in World Cup Qualifiers</a></p>

<p>When it looked like captain Pat Cummins and Khawaja might help Australia take any lead, some clever and tactical captaincy from Ben Stokes resulted in Khawaja’s wicket. Looking strong and set on 141, Khawaja was surrounded by close-in fielders on both sides.</p>

<p>The trick seemed to work as Robinson got the big fish bowled off a Yorker. There was a sense of jubilation on the ground as England knew by picking Australia’s last-recognised batter, the hosts can wrap them under 393.</p>

<p>With English bowlers continuing to follow the plan, they got rid of the tail, including picking Pat on a well-made 33. Broad, who before the start of the third day’s play called this Edgbaston pitch ‘lifeless’ ended with figures of three for 68, while Robinson finished with three for 55.</p>

<p>England had the psychological advantage over the mighty Aussies with a seven-run lead and tried capitalising on it in their second innings.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ben Duckett and Zak Crawley looked set from the ball one and were on course of displaying the Bazball brand of cricket that everyone had come to watch for. Their plans, however, were cut short by the passing rain.</p>

<p>Since it broke the momentum, Australia, upon resuming, picked two wickets, with Scott Boland and Cummins removing both openers in two overs.</p>

<p>While Cameron Green lived up to his hype of being an excellent slip-cordon fielder, Boland’s experience counted during Crawley’s dismissal.</p>

<p>England, at that time, was reduced to 28 for two when the rain came down harder, and eventually the day got called off.</p>

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After seven days of uninterrupted play in the UK in the previous two games – including the WTC Final and now the ongoing first Ashes Test in Edgbaston, the rain finally made its presence felt.

After seven days of uninterrupted play in the UK in the previous two games – including the WTC Final and now the ongoing first Ashes Test in Edgbaston, the rain finally made its presence felt. Day three between England and Australia ended with the hosts reeling at 28 for two in the second innings, leading by 35 runs. In Australia’s first innings, the touring side got all out on 386 as Stuart Broad and Ollie Robinson picked three wickets each. Day three started with centurion Usman Khawaja and keeper-batter Alex Carey continuing from where they left the other day and even completed a 100-plus stand for the sixth wicket. Veteran seamer James Anderson broke the partnership, dismissing Carey clean bowled on 66 off 99 balls. With this, Anderson also picked up his record 1100th first-class wicket. ALSO READ: West Indies, Zimbabwe earn crucial win over minnows in World Cup Qualifiers When it looked like captain Pat Cummins and Khawaja might help Australia take any lead, some clever and tactical captaincy from Ben Stokes resulted in Khawaja’s wicket. Looking strong and set on 141, Khawaja was surrounded by close-in fielders on both sides. The trick seemed to work as Robinson got the big fish bowled off a Yorker. There was a sense of jubilation on the ground as England knew by picking Australia’s last-recognised batter, the hosts can wrap them under 393. With English bowlers continuing to follow the plan, they got rid of the tail, including picking Pat on a well-made 33. Broad, who before the start of the third day’s play called this Edgbaston pitch ‘lifeless’ ended with figures of three for 68, while Robinson finished with three for 55. England had the psychological advantage over the mighty Aussies with a seven-run lead and tried capitalising on it in their second innings. Ben Duckett and Zak Crawley looked set from the ball one and were on course of displaying the Bazball brand of cricket that everyone had come to watch for. Their plans, however, were cut short by the passing rain. Since it broke the momentum, Australia, upon resuming, picked two wickets, with Scott Boland and Cummins removing both openers in two overs. While Cameron Green lived up to his hype of being an excellent slip-cordon fielder, Boland’s experience counted during Crawley’s dismissal. England, at that time, was reduced to 28 for two when the rain came down harder, and eventually the day got called off. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Ashes, 1st Test, Day 3: Australia crawl back into the game before rain halts play

<p>Usman Khawaja’s maiden hundred in England powered Australia to 311 for five at stumps on day two of the first Ashes Test in Edgbaston. Fifties from man-in-form Travis Head and Alex Carey and handy contribution from Cameron Green saw Australia dominate the second day after England’s Bazball approach made headlines earlier.</p>

<p>With Australia starting day two on 14 for no loss, England took no time in bringing James Anderson - who is playing his tenth Ashes series, into the attack and share the new Dukes Ball with Stuart Broad. Broad, for the record 15th time in his career dismissed David Warner, bowled on nine. He picked up world number batter Marnus Labuschagne on the next delivery, sending shivers down the Aussie dressing room.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ishan-kishan-among-other-contracted-players-head-to-nca-for-strength-conditioning-ahead-of-west-indies-tour-605602">Ishan Kishan among other contracted players head to NCA for strength &amp; conditioning ahead of West Indies tour</a></p>

<p>Australia’s best batter in the previous World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, Usman Khawaja and Steve Smith took charge and bailed the team out of trouble. While Smith looked unfazed by Ben Stokes’ unusual tactics – including bringing Harry Brook inside the 15th over, the English captain got the big fish on 16, trapping him in front just ahead of lunch.</p>

<p>Fresh from his maiden WTC Final hundred against India, Head continued from where he left by taking the attack to the opposition. Soon he reached his fifty as Khawaja also looked set in the middle. Moeen Ali, returning to the Test setup after a gap of two wickets, picked Head getting him&nbsp;caught in the mid-wicket area. Two balls later, he outfoxed Cameron Green, only for Jonny Bairstow to miss a clear stumping chance.</p>

<p>Just when Green and Khawaja looked like drifting the game away from England, Ali broke the stand with a ‘Jaffa’, dismissing Green clean bowled on 38.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="und">"LOL"<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EnglandCricket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EnglandCricket</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ashes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ashes</a> <a href="https://t.co/hNHY3Owd0s">pic.twitter.com/hNHY3Owd0s</a></p>
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<p>The rest of day did belong to the left-handed pair of Khawaja, who completed his maiden hundred on the English soil, and Alex Carey, who didn’t give any easy chances to England.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Much like how a few no balls cost Pat Cummins a couple of wickets against India at the Oval, one this time cost England as Broad was denied his third scalp of the day when umpires gave a no-ball after he clean bowled Khawaja. Soon after, Carey also completed his maiden fifty against England in England.</p>

<p>The pair added 91 runs as Australia’s scorecard read 311 for five at stumps on day two.</p>

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Usman Khawaja’s maiden hundred in England powered Australia to 311 for five at stumps on day two of the first Ashes Test in Edgbaston. Fifties from man-in-form Travis Head and Alex Carey and handy contribution from Cameron Green saw Australia dominate the second day after England’s Bazball approach made headlines earlier.

Usman Khawaja’s maiden hundred in England powered Australia to 311 for five at stumps on day two of the first Ashes Test in Edgbaston. Fifties from man-in-form Travis Head and Alex Carey and handy contribution from Cameron Green saw Australia dominate the second day after England’s Bazball approach made headlines earlier. With Australia starting day two on 14 for no loss, England took no time in bringing James Anderson - who is playing his tenth Ashes series, into the attack and share the new Dukes Ball with Stuart Broad. Broad, for the record 15th time in his career dismissed David Warner, bowled on nine. He picked up world number batter Marnus Labuschagne on the next delivery, sending shivers down the Aussie dressing room. ALSO READ: Ishan Kishan among other contracted players head to NCA for strength & conditioning ahead of West Indies tour Australia’s best batter in the previous World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, Usman Khawaja and Steve Smith took charge and bailed the team out of trouble. While Smith looked unfazed by Ben Stokes’ unusual tactics – including bringing Harry Brook inside the 15th over, the English captain got the big fish on 16, trapping him in front just ahead of lunch. Fresh from his maiden WTC Final hundred against India, Head continued from where he left by taking the attack to the opposition. Soon he reached his fifty as Khawaja also looked set in the middle. Moeen Ali, returning to the Test setup after a gap of two wickets, picked Head getting him caught in the mid-wicket area. Two balls later, he outfoxed Cameron Green, only for Jonny Bairstow to miss a clear stumping chance. Just when Green and Khawaja looked like drifting the game away from England, Ali broke the stand with a ‘Jaffa’, dismissing Green clean bowled on 38. "LOL"#EnglandCricket | #Ashes pic.twitter.com/hNHY3Owd0s — England Cricket (@englandcricket) June 17, 2023 × The rest of day did belong to the left-handed pair of Khawaja, who completed his maiden hundred on the English soil, and Alex Carey, who didn’t give any easy chances to England. Much like how a few no balls cost Pat Cummins a couple of wickets against India at the Oval, one this time cost England as Broad was denied his third scalp of the day when umpires gave a no-ball after he clean bowled Khawaja. Soon after, Carey also completed his maiden fifty against England in England. The pair added 91 runs as Australia’s scorecard read 311 for five at stumps on day two. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Ashes, 1st Test, Day 2: Usman Khawaja's maiden hundred in England powers Australia to 311/5

<p>Ricky Ponting was left dumbfounded on day 2 of the 1st Ashes Test being played at Edgbaston when English skipper Ben Stokes handed the ball to Harry Brook as first change. The change came when Broad had taken two wickets in two balls to leave Australia in a bit of a soup in the first session itself. Ponting's fellow commentator Michael Atherton, however, gave an epic reply to Ponting.</p>

<p>"This is Bazball, Ricky," said Atherton. Indeed it was, as was England's shocking declaration on day 1 after amassing 393/8 and Joe Root unbeaten on 118. England were ahead a bit with three wickets at lunch on day 2 which included Marnus Labuschagne, David Warner and Steve Smith. What happened after that was pure Test match batting. As sublime, focused, classy and tiring as it gets. Juxtaposed to&nbsp;Bazball.</p>

<p>Usman Khawaja dropped the anchor from the second session onwards and by the time the day came to an end he was this immoveable object with 126 runs to his name that too unbeaten. Australia finished that day on 311/5, trailing by just 83 runs after Khawaja added 81 runs with Travis Head (50), 72 runs with Cameron Green (38) and 91 unbeaten with Alex Carey (52 not out) for the fourth, fifth and sixth wicket, respectively.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-stuart-broad-takes-two-wickets-in-two-balls-dismisses-david-warner-marnus-labuschagne-watch-605561">Stuart Broad takes two wickets in two balls, dismisses David Warner, Marnus Labuschagne - WATCH</a></p>

<p>It wasn't like that Khawaja's innings was without the glitch. He was beaten a couple times and was even bowled once after England took the new ball. Stuart Broad, however, had overstepped on the ball which managed to go past Khawaja's resilient defence. His favorite shot during his innings has been the pull, off which he scored 36 runs including eight of his 14 fours.</p>

<p>Having made his debut for Australia in 2011, Khawaja's career is divided in two parts: 2011-19 and from 2022 onwards.</p>

<p>The southpaw had scored 2,887 runs in 44 games at an average of 40.66 in the first part of his career. He had also scored eight hundreds from 2011-19. Australia dropped Khawaja after that before summoning him back in the side in 2022 for the Ashes Down Under.</p>

<p>Ever since making his comeback, Khawaja has not only resurrected his career but how. In 18 games he has played since that career-changing Test against England in Sydney where he scored twin hundreds, the left-hand batsman has scored 1,747 runs.</p>

<p>His 1,747 runs are the most by any batsman since 2022 - the second best being Joe Root with 1,591 runs. Khawaja's average since 2022 has been 69.88 against Root's 56.82. Khawaja has also scored seven hundreds since then with a highest score of 195.</p>

<p>The most important thing about Khawaja's resurgence been his ability to bat in different situations. After making his comeback, the batsman has travelled not much but to India and Pakistan - the countries famous for wreaking a few careers with trail by spin. Khawaja, however, has risen to the occasion - scoring three hundreds there - two in Pakistan and one in India. All in all, Khawaja's four hundreds out of his seven have come out of home - a record itself since 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With three more days and four more Tests to go in the ongoing Ashes, it looks like Khawaja is ready to make full use of his purple patch. If he does that, Australia will definitely have a better chance at countering the Bazball and may be win their first Ashes in England since 2001.</p>

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Ricky Ponting was left dumbfounded on day 2 of the 1st Ashes Test being played at Edgbaston when English skipper Ben Stokes handed the ball to Harry Brook as first change.

Ricky Ponting was left dumbfounded on day 2 of the 1st Ashes Test being played at Edgbaston when English skipper Ben Stokes handed the ball to Harry Brook as first change. The change came when Broad had taken two wickets in two balls to leave Australia in a bit of a soup in the first session itself. Ponting's fellow commentator Michael Atherton, however, gave an epic reply to Ponting. "This is Bazball, Ricky," said Atherton. Indeed it was, as was England's shocking declaration on day 1 after amassing 393/8 and Joe Root unbeaten on 118. England were ahead a bit with three wickets at lunch on day 2 which included Marnus Labuschagne, David Warner and Steve Smith. What happened after that was pure Test match batting. As sublime, focused, classy and tiring as it gets. Juxtaposed to Bazball. Usman Khawaja dropped the anchor from the second session onwards and by the time the day came to an end he was this immoveable object with 126 runs to his name that too unbeaten. Australia finished that day on 311/5, trailing by just 83 runs after Khawaja added 81 runs with Travis Head (50), 72 runs with Cameron Green (38) and 91 unbeaten with Alex Carey (52 not out) for the fourth, fifth and sixth wicket, respectively. Also Read: Stuart Broad takes two wickets in two balls, dismisses David Warner, Marnus Labuschagne - WATCH It wasn't like that Khawaja's innings was without the glitch. He was beaten a couple times and was even bowled once after England took the new ball. Stuart Broad, however, had overstepped on the ball which managed to go past Khawaja's resilient defence. His favorite shot during his innings has been the pull, off which he scored 36 runs including eight of his 14 fours. Having made his debut for Australia in 2011, Khawaja's career is divided in two parts: 2011-19 and from 2022 onwards. The southpaw had scored 2,887 runs in 44 games at an average of 40.66 in the first part of his career. He had also scored eight hundreds from 2011-19. Australia dropped Khawaja after that before summoning him back in the side in 2022 for the Ashes Down Under. Ever since making his comeback, Khawaja has not only resurrected his career but how. In 18 games he has played since that career-changing Test against England in Sydney where he scored twin hundreds, the left-hand batsman has scored 1,747 runs. His 1,747 runs are the most by any batsman since 2022 - the second best being Joe Root with 1,591 runs. Khawaja's average since 2022 has been 69.88 against Root's 56.82. Khawaja has also scored seven hundreds since then with a highest score of 195. The most important thing about Khawaja's resurgence been his ability to bat in different situations. After making his comeback, the batsman has travelled not much but to India and Pakistan - the countries famous for wreaking a few careers with trail by spin. Khawaja, however, has risen to the occasion - scoring three hundreds there - two in Pakistan and one in India. All in all, Khawaja's four hundreds out of his seven have come out of home - a record itself since 2022. With three more days and four more Tests to go in the ongoing Ashes, it looks like Khawaja is ready to make full use of his purple patch. If he does that, Australia will definitely have a better chance at countering the Bazball and may be win their first Ashes in England since 2001. 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.

Ashes 2023: Resurgent 'UK' rules England on day 2 of Edgbaston Test

<p>Australia batter Usman Khawaja has backed compatriot David Warner to come good in the upcoming World Test Championship (WTC) and the Ashes as they prepare for a busy English summer. Khawaja and Warner, part of the Aussie squad to face India and England will be key to their success Australia bid to win the WTC in their first final. According to Khawaja, Warner has been in good nick and should continue from where he left off in the Indian Premier League (IPL).</p>

<h2><strong>Khawaja backs Warner</strong></h2>

<p>"I have seen him (Warner) bat in the last couple of days and, I don't want to jinx him, but he is looking good," Khawaja was quoted as saying by ICC.</p>

<p>The duo has been practicing together in the nets as they prepare for the WTC showdown against India at the Oval before they play in the Ashes against England. Warner has not enjoyed the best of forms in recent periods as his Boxing Day ton against South Africa remains the only time he has crossed the triple-figure mark in the red-ball format in the last three years.</p>

<p>"This is probably the best I have seen him look in the nets for a while. That doesn't always correlate to runs, but if we are any chance of Davey Warner scoring runs this could be it. He always plays his best when his back is against the wall too," added Khawaja.</p>

<h2><strong>Future hangs in the balance</strong></h2>

<p>Now 36,&nbsp;Warner will be a key figure in the side in the Ashes as well but could face an axe from the side if he fails to deliver. As things stand, Australia are yet to announce their squad for the remaining three Ashes Test and will wait on the situation before deciding on Warner’s future.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-1983-wc-winning-team-backs-protesting-wrestlers-urges-them-to-not-immerse-medals-in-ganges-599632">India's 1983 WC winning team backs protesting wrestlers, urges them to not immerse medals in Ganges</a></p>

<p>"We saw when he scored a double century in his 100th game when everyone was writing him off and telling him he was done and it was his last game and he went out and gets 200. You never write off a great player, so I am expecting runs," said Khawaja.</p>

<h2><strong>Australia squad for WTC final and Ashes:</strong></h2>

<p>Pat Cummins (capt), Scott Boland, Alex Carey (wk), Cameron Green, Marcus Harris, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis (wk), Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Todd Murphy, Steven Smith (vice-capt), Mitchell Starc, David Warner.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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Australia batter Usman Khawaja has backed compatriot David Warner to come good in the upcoming World Test Championship (WTC) and the Ashes as they prepare for a busy English summer.

Australia batter Usman Khawaja has backed compatriot David Warner to come good in the upcoming World Test Championship (WTC) and the Ashes as they prepare for a busy English summer. Khawaja and Warner, part of the Aussie squad to face India and England will be key to their success Australia bid to win the WTC in their first final. According to Khawaja, Warner has been in good nick and should continue from where he left off in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Khawaja backs Warner "I have seen him (Warner) bat in the last couple of days and, I don't want to jinx him, but he is looking good," Khawaja was quoted as saying by ICC. The duo has been practicing together in the nets as they prepare for the WTC showdown against India at the Oval before they play in the Ashes against England. Warner has not enjoyed the best of forms in recent periods as his Boxing Day ton against South Africa remains the only time he has crossed the triple-figure mark in the red-ball format in the last three years. "This is probably the best I have seen him look in the nets for a while. That doesn't always correlate to runs, but if we are any chance of Davey Warner scoring runs this could be it. He always plays his best when his back is against the wall too," added Khawaja. Future hangs in the balance Now 36, Warner will be a key figure in the side in the Ashes as well but could face an axe from the side if he fails to deliver. As things stand, Australia are yet to announce their squad for the remaining three Ashes Test and will wait on the situation before deciding on Warner’s future. ALSO READ | India's 1983 WC winning team backs protesting wrestlers, urges them to not immerse medals in Ganges "We saw when he scored a double century in his 100th game when everyone was writing him off and telling him he was done and it was his last game and he went out and gets 200. You never write off a great player, so I am expecting runs," said Khawaja. Australia squad for WTC final and Ashes: Pat Cummins (capt), Scott Boland, Alex Carey (wk), Cameron Green, Marcus Harris, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis (wk), Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Todd Murphy, Steven Smith (vice-capt), Mitchell Starc, David Warner. 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.

WTC Final: Usman Khawaja backs compatriot David Warner for busy English summer, says ' he is looking good'

<p>Virat Kohli had a memorable Test in Ahmedabad as the batsman scored his 28th Test century after a long gap of more than three years. The star batter scored 186 in India's first innings which helped the home team overcome Australia's first innings total of 480.</p>

<p>The Test, however, ended in a draw and India retained the Border-Gavaskar trophy with 2-1 victory in the series. Virat Kohli was adjudged Player-of-the-Match for his sublime innings and clearly was in a good mood after the match. In a heartwarming gesture, Kohli also gifted his signed jersey to Australia duo of Usman Khawaja and Alex Carey. Notably, Khawaja also scored a century, 180, in Australia's first innings in the Test.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/madness-in-one-hour-steve-smith-rues-big-moment-after-australia-lose-test-series-2-1-571623">'Madness in one hour...': Steve Smith rues BIG moment after Australia lose Test series 2-1</a></p>

<p>The video of Kohli's heart-winning gesture was shared by official twitter account of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). In the video, Kohli can be seen shaking hands with Khawaja and Carey after giving them the signed jersey.</p>

<p>"King Kohli (crown) had some memorabilia to give to his Australian teammates post the final Test (clap clap) . Gestures like these (heart) #TeamIndia | #INDvAUS," read the tweet by BCCI. Have a look at the video here:</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">King Kohli 👑 had some memorabilia to give to his Australian teammates post the final Test 👏🏼👏🏼<br />
<br />
Gestures like these 🫶🏼<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAUS</a> <a href="https://t.co/inWCO8IOpe">pic.twitter.com/inWCO8IOpe</a></p>
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<p>India and Australia will now face each other in the World Test Championship (WTC) final in England in June. India had quite a luck going their way with New Zealand beating Sri Lanka in a thrilling Test match on the last ball of the match. India had to win the Border-Gavaskar series by 3-0 or 3-1 margin but as Ahmedabad Test was headed for the draw after four days of play, India had to rely on New Zealand to beat Sri Lanka for WTC final berth.</p>

<p>For India to qualify, Sri Lanka had to either lose or draw their ongoing two-match series against New Zealand as a 2-0 win would have helped Lanka to pip India and enter the WTC final.</p>

<p>Sri Lanka were going strong but thanks to a masterful century by Kane Williamson, New Zealand won the first of two Test matches, rendering the result of second Test ineffective and sending India into the final.</p>

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Virat Kohli had a memorable Test in Ahmedabad as the batsman scored his 28th Test century after a long gap of more than three years. The star batter scored 186 in India's first innings which helped the home team overcome Australia's first innings total of 480.

Virat Kohli had a memorable Test in Ahmedabad as the batsman scored his 28th Test century after a long gap of more than three years. The star batter scored 186 in India's first innings which helped the home team overcome Australia's first innings total of 480. The Test, however, ended in a draw and India retained the Border-Gavaskar trophy with 2-1 victory in the series. Virat Kohli was adjudged Player-of-the-Match for his sublime innings and clearly was in a good mood after the match. In a heartwarming gesture, Kohli also gifted his signed jersey to Australia duo of Usman Khawaja and Alex Carey. Notably, Khawaja also scored a century, 180, in Australia's first innings in the Test. Also Read: 'Madness in one hour...': Steve Smith rues BIG moment after Australia lose Test series 2-1 The video of Kohli's heart-winning gesture was shared by official twitter account of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). In the video, Kohli can be seen shaking hands with Khawaja and Carey after giving them the signed jersey. "King Kohli (crown) had some memorabilia to give to his Australian teammates post the final Test (clap clap) . Gestures like these (heart) #TeamIndia | #INDvAUS," read the tweet by BCCI. Have a look at the video here: King Kohli 👑 had some memorabilia to give to his Australian teammates post the final Test 👏🏼👏🏼 Gestures like these 🫶🏼#TeamIndia | #INDvAUS pic.twitter.com/inWCO8IOpe — BCCI (@BCCI) March 13, 2023 × India and Australia will now face each other in the World Test Championship (WTC) final in England in June. India had quite a luck going their way with New Zealand beating Sri Lanka in a thrilling Test match on the last ball of the match. India had to win the Border-Gavaskar series by 3-0 or 3-1 margin but as Ahmedabad Test was headed for the draw after four days of play, India had to rely on New Zealand to beat Sri Lanka for WTC final berth. For India to qualify, Sri Lanka had to either lose or draw their ongoing two-match series against New Zealand as a 2-0 win would have helped Lanka to pip India and enter the WTC final. Sri Lanka were going strong but thanks to a masterful century by Kane Williamson, New Zealand won the first of two Test matches, rendering the result of second Test ineffective and sending India into the final. 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.

WATCH: Virat Kohli's ENDEARING gesture for Alex Carey, Usman Khawaja after Ahmedabad Test wins hearts

<p>On his third tour to India in the past decade, Usman Khawaja finally got his chance this time. Making most of this opportunity&nbsp;now, the left-handed batter completed his maiden Test hundred on the Indian soil during the first innings of the final Test in Ahmedabad. In the process, he did accomplish a few records and even earned praises including one from the former India batter Aakash Chopra.</p>

<p>Cricketer-turned-commentator Chopra - a popular analyst and someone who also runs his YouTube channel, hailed Usman as one of the best openers to travel to India in the past eight years or so. Considering India hadn’t lost a Test series at home since last losing to England in 2012 and that touring teams often have horrid time touring this part of the world especially in Tests, Usman’s hundred in that context looks grander.</p>

<p>Chopra feels the same. He added&nbsp;even though the pitch remained flat during most parts of the first two days, Khawaja’s ability to stand tall against a potent bowling attack that dismantled this Australian team in the first two Tests shouldn’t be discounted and instead be appreciated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Usman Khawaja was simply brilliant for his 180. No matter how flat the pitch is, it's never easy to bat for so long as it requires a lot of concentration. His wicket itself was a lapse in concentration, but he is definitely the best overseas opener who has visited Indian shores in the past 7-8 years," Aakash Chopra said on his YouTube Channel.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sa-vs-wi-temba-bavuma-ends-seven-year-wait-for-2nd-test-ton-puts-proteas-in-strong-position-in-jo-burg-570805">SA vs WI: Temba Bavuma ends seven-year wait for 2nd Test ton, puts Proteas in strong position in Jo 'burg</a></p>

<p>Following Peter Handscomb’s wicket on day one, pair of Khawaja and returning Cameron Green took the attack to the opposition, stitching a mammoth 208-run stand for the fifth wicket. While Khawaja scored 180 – becoming only the second Aussie opener in over 50 years to score 150 plus against India in India in Tests, his partner Green also completed his maiden hundred in this format.</p>

<p>Tipped to be the future of Australian cricket, Green scored 114 off 170 balls.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Showering praises on Green as well, Aakash said there is no doubt that he will be one of the best all-rounders of the game in times to come while&nbsp;he lamented&nbsp;India’s tactics against him – which was disappointing as they didn’t bowl short to him.</p>

<p>"Cameron Green played a special knock and will be one of the best all-rounders the world has ever seen. The one thing that I was disappointed to see was that we didn't even try the short ball trap to Green," Chopra said.</p>

<p>"You could have had fielders on leg side and then from around the wicket could have tried to pin him and induce a false shot. You get a lot of rest as a fast bowler when you have three spinners in the line-up so it could have been tried," he added.</p>

<p>However, as things stand, India at lunch on day three is 129 for one with Shubman Gill playing on 65 while Cheteshwar Pujara on 22.</p>


On his third tour to India in the past decade, Usman Khawaja finally got his chance this time. Making most of this opportunity now, the left-handed batter completed his maiden Test hundred on the Indian soil during the first innings of the final Test in Ahmedabad.

On his third tour to India in the past decade, Usman Khawaja finally got his chance this time. Making most of this opportunity now, the left-handed batter completed his maiden Test hundred on the Indian soil during the first innings of the final Test in Ahmedabad. In the process, he did accomplish a few records and even earned praises including one from the former India batter Aakash Chopra. Cricketer-turned-commentator Chopra - a popular analyst and someone who also runs his YouTube channel, hailed Usman as one of the best openers to travel to India in the past eight years or so. Considering India hadn’t lost a Test series at home since last losing to England in 2012 and that touring teams often have horrid time touring this part of the world especially in Tests, Usman’s hundred in that context looks grander. Chopra feels the same. He added even though the pitch remained flat during most parts of the first two days, Khawaja’s ability to stand tall against a potent bowling attack that dismantled this Australian team in the first two Tests shouldn’t be discounted and instead be appreciated. "Usman Khawaja was simply brilliant for his 180. No matter how flat the pitch is, it's never easy to bat for so long as it requires a lot of concentration. His wicket itself was a lapse in concentration, but he is definitely the best overseas opener who has visited Indian shores in the past 7-8 years," Aakash Chopra said on his YouTube Channel. ALSO READ: SA vs WI: Temba Bavuma ends seven-year wait for 2nd Test ton, puts Proteas in strong position in Jo 'burg Following Peter Handscomb’s wicket on day one, pair of Khawaja and returning Cameron Green took the attack to the opposition, stitching a mammoth 208-run stand for the fifth wicket. While Khawaja scored 180 – becoming only the second Aussie opener in over 50 years to score 150 plus against India in India in Tests, his partner Green also completed his maiden hundred in this format. Tipped to be the future of Australian cricket, Green scored 114 off 170 balls. Showering praises on Green as well, Aakash said there is no doubt that he will be one of the best all-rounders of the game in times to come while he lamented India’s tactics against him – which was disappointing as they didn’t bowl short to him. "Cameron Green played a special knock and will be one of the best all-rounders the world has ever seen. The one thing that I was disappointed to see was that we didn't even try the short ball trap to Green," Chopra said. "You could have had fielders on leg side and then from around the wicket could have tried to pin him and induce a false shot. You get a lot of rest as a fast bowler when you have three spinners in the line-up so it could have been tried," he added. However, as things stand, India at lunch on day three is 129 for one with Shubman Gill playing on 65 while Cheteshwar Pujara on 22.

IND vs AUS: Aakash Chopra hails Usman Khawaja, calls him the best opener to tour India in 8 years

<p>Australian pairing of Usman Khawaja and Cameron Green joined a special club of Australian players after dismantling the Indian bowling attack in the fourth Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Ahmedabad. The pair recorded a 208-run stand for the fifth wicket as the visitors took total command on Day 2 of the contest. The Aussies, already in the final of the World Test Championship (WTC) are looking to add a spanner in the work for the Indian team and prevent them from reaching the final of the showpiece event.</p>

<h3><strong>Khawaja, Green join elite club</strong></h3>

<p>Taking over from 255/4 at stumps on Day 1, the Aussie pair started brightly before Green brought his fifty. The pair went on relentless attack on the Indian bowlers as they brought a 100-run stand in the first 30 minutes of play. Things only got better for them as the match progressed with both Green and Khawaja ending with their respective tons.</p>

<p>While Green was going well, his dismissal on 114 in the second session by Ravichandran Ashwin brought curtains on the partnership. However, the pair registered Australia’s second-highest partnership on Indian soil in Test cricket, only missing out on Alan Border and Kim Hughes’ tally of the 222-run stand. The former Australia skipper and Hughes had recorded the stand in September 1979 at the Madras Cricket Club Ground in Chepauk (nowadays M. Chinnaswamy Stadium).</p>

<h3>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ahmedabad-test-pitch-a-big-learning-curve-for-rohit-sharma-says-ex-india-head-coach-ravi-shastri-570558">Ahmedabad Test pitch a big learning curve for Rohit Sharma, says ex-India head coach Ravi Shastri</a></h3>

<h3><strong>Australia in driving seat</strong></h3>

<p>While the pair failed to break Border and Hughes’ record, both Khawaja and Green made sure that the visitors sat in a commanding position on Day 2. Khawaja, unfortunately, missed out on a double ton as he was dismissed on 180 by Axar Patel while Green scored 114, his maiden ton in Test cricket. The Aussies were dismissed for 480 in the final session of Day 2 and have given India a big headache as they try to narrow the first-innings deposit.</p>


Australian pairing of Usman Khawaja and Cameron Green joined a special club of Australian players after dismantling the Indian bowling attack in the fourth Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Ahmedabad.

Australian pairing of Usman Khawaja and Cameron Green joined a special club of Australian players after dismantling the Indian bowling attack in the fourth Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Ahmedabad. The pair recorded a 208-run stand for the fifth wicket as the visitors took total command on Day 2 of the contest. The Aussies, already in the final of the World Test Championship (WTC) are looking to add a spanner in the work for the Indian team and prevent them from reaching the final of the showpiece event. Khawaja, Green join elite club Taking over from 255/4 at stumps on Day 1, the Aussie pair started brightly before Green brought his fifty. The pair went on relentless attack on the Indian bowlers as they brought a 100-run stand in the first 30 minutes of play. Things only got better for them as the match progressed with both Green and Khawaja ending with their respective tons. While Green was going well, his dismissal on 114 in the second session by Ravichandran Ashwin brought curtains on the partnership. However, the pair registered Australia’s second-highest partnership on Indian soil in Test cricket, only missing out on Alan Border and Kim Hughes’ tally of the 222-run stand. The former Australia skipper and Hughes had recorded the stand in September 1979 at the Madras Cricket Club Ground in Chepauk (nowadays M. Chinnaswamy Stadium). ALSO READ | Ahmedabad Test pitch a big learning curve for Rohit Sharma, says ex-India head coach Ravi Shastri Australia in driving seat While the pair failed to break Border and Hughes’ record, both Khawaja and Green made sure that the visitors sat in a commanding position on Day 2. Khawaja, unfortunately, missed out on a double ton as he was dismissed on 180 by Axar Patel while Green scored 114, his maiden ton in Test cricket. The Aussies were dismissed for 480 in the final session of Day 2 and have given India a big headache as they try to narrow the first-innings deposit.

IND vs AUS: Usman Khawaja, Cameron Green join elite company after stellar show with bat in Ahmedabad

<p>Usman Khawaja continued to pile runs on Day 2 of the fourth and final Test between India and Australia in Ahmedabad on Friday (March 10). After opting to bat first on Day 1, Australia ended at 255 for 4 with Khawaja being unbeaten on 104. He continued from there on and ended with a sublime 180 -- highest individual score by a batter in ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy -- to take his side past the 400-run mark. In addition, he achieved a historic feat of becoming only the second Aussie Test opener in ths 21st century with 150-plus score on Indian soil.</p>

<p>Khawaja joined Matthew Hayden, former Aussie legend, to become the second Australian with a 150-plus score in India. Before the duo, Jim Bruke and Graham Yallop had attained the historic feat in 1956 and 1979, respectively.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>AUSTRALIAN OPENERS WITH 150-PLUS SCORE IN INDIA</strong></p>

<p>Jim Burke - 161 in Brabourne in 1956<br />
Graham Yallop - 167 at Eden Gardens in 1979<br />
Matthew Hayden - 203 in Chennai in 2001<br />
Usman Khawaja - 150 not out in Ahmedabad in 2023*</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ahmedabad-test-pitch-a-big-learning-curve-for-rohit-sharma-says-ex-india-head-coach-ravi-shastri-570558">Ahmedabad Test pitch a big learning curve for Rohit Sharma. says ex-India head coach Ravi Shastri</a></strong></p>

<p>During the lunch break on Day 2, Hayden lauded Khawaja and said he should have played 100 Tests by now for the Baggy Greens. He also compared him with Mark Waugh. The former opener told on-air, "Usman Khawaja should be in that 100 Test match category. He’s played 59 Test matches, I reckon that he is 40 short of what it should have been, and that is due to his underwhelming body language. He is similar to someone like Mark Waugh. He was so stylish that the word ‘soft’ was invented. He was so sharp and good, just like Khawaja."</p>

<p>Hayden added, "He is an individual who bides his time and is a proper opening batter, he is a proper left-hander as well, he plays shots off his pads, waist back in the crease, and plays effortlessly through the covers."</p>

<p>Khawaja and Cameron Green (114) had already put on an unbeaten 85-run fifth-wicket stand at stumps on Day 1. They dominated proceedings on Friday (March 10) and eventually added a mammoth 208-run stand. The pair's impressive stand have taken Australia well past the 450-run mark with two wickets still in hand.</p>

<p>India lead the four-match series 2-1.</p>


Usman Khawaja continued to pile runs on Day 2 of the fourth and final Test between India and Australia in Ahmedabad on Friday (March 10). After opting to bat first on Day 1, Australia ended at 255 for 4 with Khawaja being unbeaten on 104.

Usman Khawaja continued to pile runs on Day 2 of the fourth and final Test between India and Australia in Ahmedabad on Friday (March 10). After opting to bat first on Day 1, Australia ended at 255 for 4 with Khawaja being unbeaten on 104. He continued from there on and ended with a sublime 180 -- highest individual score by a batter in ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy -- to take his side past the 400-run mark. In addition, he achieved a historic feat of becoming only the second Aussie Test opener in ths 21st century with 150-plus score on Indian soil. Khawaja joined Matthew Hayden, former Aussie legend, to become the second Australian with a 150-plus score in India. Before the duo, Jim Bruke and Graham Yallop had attained the historic feat in 1956 and 1979, respectively. AUSTRALIAN OPENERS WITH 150-PLUS SCORE IN INDIA Jim Burke - 161 in Brabourne in 1956 Graham Yallop - 167 at Eden Gardens in 1979 Matthew Hayden - 203 in Chennai in 2001 Usman Khawaja - 150 not out in Ahmedabad in 2023* Also read: Ahmedabad Test pitch a big learning curve for Rohit Sharma. says ex-India head coach Ravi Shastri During the lunch break on Day 2, Hayden lauded Khawaja and said he should have played 100 Tests by now for the Baggy Greens. He also compared him with Mark Waugh. The former opener told on-air, "Usman Khawaja should be in that 100 Test match category. He’s played 59 Test matches, I reckon that he is 40 short of what it should have been, and that is due to his underwhelming body language. He is similar to someone like Mark Waugh. He was so stylish that the word ‘soft’ was invented. He was so sharp and good, just like Khawaja." Hayden added, "He is an individual who bides his time and is a proper opening batter, he is a proper left-hander as well, he plays shots off his pads, waist back in the crease, and plays effortlessly through the covers." Khawaja and Cameron Green (114) had already put on an unbeaten 85-run fifth-wicket stand at stumps on Day 1. They dominated proceedings on Friday (March 10) and eventually added a mammoth 208-run stand. The pair's impressive stand have taken Australia well past the 450-run mark with two wickets still in hand. India lead the four-match series 2-1.

IND vs AUS: Usman Khawaja becomes second Aussie Test opener in 21st century to hit 150 in India

<p>India have been on a roll on the opening day of the second Test, in New Delhi, versus Australia. After being asked to bowl first, India accounted for three scalps in the first session. While they chipped in with regular wickets post the lunch break, opener Usman Khawaja and Peter Handscomb stitched a vital 59-run fifth-wicket stand. Just when Khawaja was reaching the 100-run mark, he was dismissed by Ravindra Jadeja with KL Rahul taking a one-handed stunner.</p>

<p>Talking about the delivery, Khawaja went for a reverse sweep against&nbsp;Jadeja. He, however,&nbsp;couldn't get the desired&nbsp;connection and the ball went straight to square leg position, where Rahul dived towards his right and pulled off a one-handed stunner. As a result, Khawaja was on his knees and in complete disbelief as he was deprived of a hundred. <strong>Here's the video:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">KL Rahul this is not human 🤯<br />
<br />
This is an early contender for catch of the year 👀<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAUS</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/klrahul?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@klrahul</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/SunielVShetty?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SunielVShetty</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KLRahulGOAT?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KLRahulGOAT</a> 🇮🇳🏟🏟 <a href="https://t.co/LMAIlold2y">pic.twitter.com/LMAIlold2y</a></p>
— Rohit Singh Thakur🇮🇳 (@RohitTh21118778) <a href="https://twitter.com/RohitTh21118778/status/1626494565745324032?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/team-india-gives-guard-of-honour-to-cheteshwar-pujara-as-he-joins-100-test-club-watch-562947">Team India gives 'guard of honour' to Cheteshwar Pujara as he joins 100-Test club - WATCH</a></strong></p>

<p>With the dismissal, Jadeja also attained a unique feat. The all-rounder became the second-fastest player in Test cricket to record a combination of 2,500 runs and 250 wickets.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Australia have lost the plot after a good start. They will still be hoping to put up a respectable total, anything over 250-275, and put up a good fight in the second Test after the hammering they received in the series opener in Nagpur. India won the first Test by an innings and 132 runs and have a 1-0 lead.</p>


India have been on a roll on the opening day of the second Test, in New Delhi, versus Australia. After being asked to bowl first, India accounted for three scalps in the first session.

India have been on a roll on the opening day of the second Test, in New Delhi, versus Australia. After being asked to bowl first, India accounted for three scalps in the first session. While they chipped in with regular wickets post the lunch break, opener Usman Khawaja and Peter Handscomb stitched a vital 59-run fifth-wicket stand. Just when Khawaja was reaching the 100-run mark, he was dismissed by Ravindra Jadeja with KL Rahul taking a one-handed stunner. Talking about the delivery, Khawaja went for a reverse sweep against Jadeja. He, however, couldn't get the desired connection and the ball went straight to square leg position, where Rahul dived towards his right and pulled off a one-handed stunner. As a result, Khawaja was on his knees and in complete disbelief as he was deprived of a hundred. Here's the video: KL Rahul this is not human 🤯 This is an early contender for catch of the year 👀#INDvAUS | @klrahul @SunielVShetty #KLRahulGOAT 🇮🇳🏟🏟 pic.twitter.com/LMAIlold2y — Rohit Singh Thakur🇮🇳 (@RohitTh21118778) February 17, 2023 × Also Read: Team India gives 'guard of honour' to Cheteshwar Pujara as he joins 100-Test club - WATCH With the dismissal, Jadeja also attained a unique feat. The all-rounder became the second-fastest player in Test cricket to record a combination of 2,500 runs and 250 wickets. Australia have lost the plot after a good start. They will still be hoping to put up a respectable total, anything over 250-275, and put up a good fight in the second Test after the hammering they received in the series opener in Nagpur. India won the first Test by an innings and 132 runs and have a 1-0 lead.

WATCH: KL Rahul grabs a one-handed stunner to dismiss Usman Khawaja on Day 1 of 2nd Test

<p>Rohit Sharma-led India lost the toss in the Nagpur Test, of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, on Thursday (February 09) but got two early breakthroughs after Australia came out to bat. Mohammed Siraj removed Usman Khawaja, trapping him lbw for 1 whereas Md Shami cleaned bowled David Warner, for identical score, as Indian fans were ecstatic in Nagpur.</p>

<p>Talking about the first wicket, Siraj trapped in-form Khawaja with the ball moving in the air and after pitching on the leg-side, it straightened a bit&nbsp;to trap the left-hander. After the umpire turned down the appeal, skipper Rohit decided to take the decision upstairs. As the review turned out to be successful, Rohit &amp; Co. were on cloud nine. Nonetheless, head coach Rahul Dravid was also all pumped up and his reaction went viral. <strong>Here's the video:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Gooood Morning 🔥<br />
<br />
🎥: <a href="https://twitter.com/StarSportsIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@StarSportsIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/bQP3yFEHa1">pic.twitter.com/bQP3yFEHa1</a></p>
— Washington Sundar (@Sundarwashi5) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sundarwashi5/status/1623545878970761216?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 9, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/if-you-dont-want-to-play-just-dont-pakistan-great-javed-miandad-clarifies-his-india-can-go-to-hell-remark-560202">If you don’t want to play just don’t: Pakistan great Javed Miandad clarifies his 'India can go to hell' remark</a></strong></p>

<p>After claiming two quick wickets, India created quite a few chances but Marnus Labuschagne-Steve Smith added 74 runs for the third-wicket as Australia went to lunch at 76 for 2. Post lunch, Ravindra Jadeja stuck twice, on successive deliveries, to bring India back into the contest.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pat Cummins-led Australia will hope to post anything over 350 in the first innings, however, it won't be easy against the current Indian bowling line-up.</p>


Rohit Sharma-led India lost the toss in the Nagpur Test, of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, on Thursday (February 09) but got two early breakthroughs after Australia came out to bat.

Rohit Sharma-led India lost the toss in the Nagpur Test, of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, on Thursday (February 09) but got two early breakthroughs after Australia came out to bat. Mohammed Siraj removed Usman Khawaja, trapping him lbw for 1 whereas Md Shami cleaned bowled David Warner, for identical score, as Indian fans were ecstatic in Nagpur. Talking about the first wicket, Siraj trapped in-form Khawaja with the ball moving in the air and after pitching on the leg-side, it straightened a bit to trap the left-hander. After the umpire turned down the appeal, skipper Rohit decided to take the decision upstairs. As the review turned out to be successful, Rohit & Co. were on cloud nine. Nonetheless, head coach Rahul Dravid was also all pumped up and his reaction went viral. Here's the video: Gooood Morning 🔥 🎥: @StarSportsIndia pic.twitter.com/bQP3yFEHa1 — Washington Sundar (@Sundarwashi5) February 9, 2023 × Also Read: If you don’t want to play just don’t: Pakistan great Javed Miandad clarifies his 'India can go to hell' remark After claiming two quick wickets, India created quite a few chances but Marnus Labuschagne-Steve Smith added 74 runs for the third-wicket as Australia went to lunch at 76 for 2. Post lunch, Ravindra Jadeja stuck twice, on successive deliveries, to bring India back into the contest. Pat Cummins-led Australia will hope to post anything over 350 in the first innings, however, it won't be easy against the current Indian bowling line-up.

WATCH: Rahul Dravid all fired up after Rohit Sharma & Co. get early breakthrough in Nagpur Test

<p>The man in form for Australia, opener Usman Khawaja is aware of the challenge he is getting into. Despite having form on his side, the left-handed batter isn’t discounting the spin-heavy Indian bowling line-up in their own conditions. Speaking with The Sydney Morning Herald, Khawaja showered praises on ace Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, calling him a gun. Having played against Ashwin in the past, Khawaja knows a bit or two about his tricks and how he’s going to use it. Ashwin had been a thorn in the flesh of the Aussies;&nbsp;in 18 Tests played in the Border-Gavaskar series throughout, Ashwin has picked up 89 wickets at an average of 31.48. Usman, who will be playing a Test in India for the first time, said Ashwin uses his crease very well that helps him pick wickets.</p>

<p>"Ashwin is a gun. He's very skillful, he's got a lot of tricky little variations, and he uses the crease quite well too. If you asked me the same question when I was younger, I probably wouldn't have been able to answer a lot of things because I didn't really learn about how to face what off-spinners are doing," Usman Khawaja was quoted as saying by The Sydney Morning Herald.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-mahela-jayawardene-makes-a-bold-prediction-ahead-of-border-gavaskar-series-559146">IND vs AUS: Mahela Jayawardene makes a bold prediction ahead of Border-Gavaskar series</a></p>

<p>Adding that the wickets in India are sure to turn from day one itself and knowing that Ashwin will come into play very soon in every game, Khawaja said he needs to figure on how to play him and score runs against him.</p>

<p>"But it's one of those really good challenges. The wicket's going to turn here at some point, whether day one, day three, or day four, and he's going to be in the game and bowl a lot of overs. So it's all about figuring out how I'm going to play against him, how I'm going to score runs against him, what he might do. If you bat a long time against him, he's going to change his game plans against you," Khawaja added.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, in their build-up to the 2023 Border-Gavaskar series, Australia decided not to play&nbsp;the tour game citing the pitches on offer during practice matches are quite different from the ones that used during the actual Tests, eventually leading to no useful training for the touring teams. Now, ahead of the first Test that begins in Nagpur on February 9th, the Aussie team is occupied in the pre-series camp near Bengaluru where they are practicing on dry surfaces.</p>


The man in form for Australia, opener Usman Khawaja is aware of the challenge he is getting into. Despite having form on his side, the left-handed batter isn’t discounting the spin-heavy Indian bowling line-up in their own conditions.

The man in form for Australia, opener Usman Khawaja is aware of the challenge he is getting into. Despite having form on his side, the left-handed batter isn’t discounting the spin-heavy Indian bowling line-up in their own conditions. Speaking with The Sydney Morning Herald, Khawaja showered praises on ace Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, calling him a gun. Having played against Ashwin in the past, Khawaja knows a bit or two about his tricks and how he’s going to use it. Ashwin had been a thorn in the flesh of the Aussies; in 18 Tests played in the Border-Gavaskar series throughout, Ashwin has picked up 89 wickets at an average of 31.48. Usman, who will be playing a Test in India for the first time, said Ashwin uses his crease very well that helps him pick wickets. "Ashwin is a gun. He's very skillful, he's got a lot of tricky little variations, and he uses the crease quite well too. If you asked me the same question when I was younger, I probably wouldn't have been able to answer a lot of things because I didn't really learn about how to face what off-spinners are doing," Usman Khawaja was quoted as saying by The Sydney Morning Herald. ALSO READ: IND vs AUS: Mahela Jayawardene makes a bold prediction ahead of Border-Gavaskar series Adding that the wickets in India are sure to turn from day one itself and knowing that Ashwin will come into play very soon in every game, Khawaja said he needs to figure on how to play him and score runs against him. "But it's one of those really good challenges. The wicket's going to turn here at some point, whether day one, day three, or day four, and he's going to be in the game and bowl a lot of overs. So it's all about figuring out how I'm going to play against him, how I'm going to score runs against him, what he might do. If you bat a long time against him, he's going to change his game plans against you," Khawaja added. Meanwhile, in their build-up to the 2023 Border-Gavaskar series, Australia decided not to play the tour game citing the pitches on offer during practice matches are quite different from the ones that used during the actual Tests, eventually leading to no useful training for the touring teams. Now, ahead of the first Test that begins in Nagpur on February 9th, the Aussie team is occupied in the pre-series camp near Bengaluru where they are practicing on dry surfaces.

Usman Khawaja remains wary of spin challenge against India, praises star India spinner ahead of series opener

<p>Aussie batter Usman Khawaja finally got his visa as he left for India for Pat Cummins &amp; Co.'s upcoming four Tests versus hosts India in the upcoming edition of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. There was a lot of delay in Khawaja getting his visa but he finally got hold of it and flew for India. The left-handed batter also shared a post on his official Instagram handle as he shared his excitement of travelling to the Asian country for the much-awaited India-Australia Tests.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Wednesday (February 01), Khawaja took to his official Instagram handle to share a selfie on his flight en route to India. He captioned the post, "India, I'm coming".</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tendulkar-bcci-present-india-u19-womens-team-a-fat-cheque-for-t20-wc-win-before-ind-nz-3rd-t20i-557993"><strong>Tendulkar, BCCI present India U19 Women’s team a fat cheque for T20 WC win before IND-NZ 3rd T20I</strong></a></p>

<p>Cricket Australia had revealed that its players left in two batches on January 31 and February 1. However, Khawaja couldn't leave with his teammates due to the visa delay -- something which he encountered in 2011 as well for the Champions League and was resolved with government intervention. Talking about the&nbsp;Border-Gavaskar Trophy, which will be the last edition to comprise four Tests, will kickoff on February 9 in Nagpur. The second Test will be held in Delhi (February 17-21) before the action moves to Dharamshala (March 1-5) with Ahmedabad hosting the series finale&nbsp;(March 9-13).</p>

<p>India have won the last three editions of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, winning the last two in Australia. Hence, they will be confident of getting past the No. 1 ranked Australian Test line-up.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Australia Test squad for India tour:</strong>&nbsp;Pat Cummins (capt), Ashton Agar, Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Peter Handscomb, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Lance Morris, Todd Murphy, Matthew Renshaw, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Mitchell Swepson, David Warner.</p>


Aussie batter Usman Khawaja finally got his visa as he left for India for Pat Cummins & Co.'s upcoming four Tests versus hosts India in the upcoming edition of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

Aussie batter Usman Khawaja finally got his visa as he left for India for Pat Cummins & Co.'s upcoming four Tests versus hosts India in the upcoming edition of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. There was a lot of delay in Khawaja getting his visa but he finally got hold of it and flew for India. The left-handed batter also shared a post on his official Instagram handle as he shared his excitement of travelling to the Asian country for the much-awaited India-Australia Tests. On Wednesday (February 01), Khawaja took to his official Instagram handle to share a selfie on his flight en route to India. He captioned the post, "India, I'm coming". View this post on Instagram A post shared by Usman Khawaja (@usman_khawajy) × Also read: Tendulkar, BCCI present India U19 Women’s team a fat cheque for T20 WC win before IND-NZ 3rd T20I Cricket Australia had revealed that its players left in two batches on January 31 and February 1. However, Khawaja couldn't leave with his teammates due to the visa delay -- something which he encountered in 2011 as well for the Champions League and was resolved with government intervention. Talking about the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, which will be the last edition to comprise four Tests, will kickoff on February 9 in Nagpur. The second Test will be held in Delhi (February 17-21) before the action moves to Dharamshala (March 1-5) with Ahmedabad hosting the series finale (March 9-13). India have won the last three editions of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, winning the last two in Australia. Hence, they will be confident of getting past the No. 1 ranked Australian Test line-up. Australia Test squad for India tour: Pat Cummins (capt), Ashton Agar, Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Peter Handscomb, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Lance Morris, Todd Murphy, Matthew Renshaw, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Mitchell Swepson, David Warner.

Border-Gavaskar Trophy: After much delay, Usman Khawaja gets his visa as he leaves for India

<p>Star Aussie opener Usman Khawaja missed his flight to India due to the delay in his&nbsp;visa arrival,&nbsp;and is now set to travel on Thursday, February 2nd. As two sets of Australian players and coaching staff reached India on Tuesday, Khawaja was left behind waiting for his visa. As reported by the Cricbuzz, the delay was caused mainly because of the physical copy of the same was unavailable by the time the second set of Australian contingent left for India. Cricket Australia expects the visa to arrive by late Wednesday and Usman will be on his flight to India for the Border-Gavaskar series the next day.</p>

<p>The left-handed batter also shared a meme on his Instagram&nbsp;handle that read, <em>“Me waiting for my Indian Visa like… #stranded #dontleaveme #standard #anytimenow."</em></p>

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<p>The Australian team will first attend a four-day camp in Bengaluru before flying to Nagpur for the first Test. Upon announcing earlier that Australia will not play a tour game in India ahead of the marquee Test series, the team management arranged a two-day pre-series camp in Sydney where they practiced on torn and used pitches.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-2023-shreyas-iyer-ruled-out-of-nagpur-test-due-to-back-injury-557794">IND vs AUS 2023: Shreyas Iyer ruled out of Nagpur Test due to back injury</a></p>

<p>Meanwhile, Usman Khawaja was recently awarded Australia’s Men’s Test Player of the Year for 2022 on Monday for his stellar show in the five-day format in the last year&nbsp;– where he scored 1020 runs in 12 matches at an impressive average of 78.46. The 36-year-old opener also made it to the ICC’s Test Team of the Year alongside teammates Marnus Labuschagne, captain Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon.</p>

<p>Khawaja, who was part of Australia’s previous two tours to India in 2013 and 2017, is yet to play a Test there. A very good player of spin bowling, Islamabad-born Khawaja, during his last tour to Pakistan in March 2022, scored 496 runs in three Tests at an average of whopping 165.33. He scored two hundreds including his best of 160. This time against the spin-heavy Indian bowling line-up, he is expected to provide stability at the top.</p>

<p>The four-match Test series begins on February 9th in Nagpur with Delhi (17-21 Feb), Dharamsala (1-5 Mar) and Ahmedabad (9-13 Mar) scheduled to host the remaining three Tests.</p>

<p><strong>Here’s Australia’s 18-man squad for India Tests –</strong></p>

<p>Pat Cummins (captain), Ashton Agar, Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Peter Handscomb, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Lance Morris, Todd Murphy, Matthew Renshaw, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Mitchell Swepson, David Warner</p>


Star Aussie opener Usman Khawaja missed his flight to India due to the delay in his visa arrival, and is now set to travel on Thursday, February 2nd. As two sets of Australian players and coaching staff reached India on Tuesday, Khawaja was left behind waiting for his visa.

Star Aussie opener Usman Khawaja missed his flight to India due to the delay in his visa arrival, and is now set to travel on Thursday, February 2nd. As two sets of Australian players and coaching staff reached India on Tuesday, Khawaja was left behind waiting for his visa. As reported by the Cricbuzz, the delay was caused mainly because of the physical copy of the same was unavailable by the time the second set of Australian contingent left for India. Cricket Australia expects the visa to arrive by late Wednesday and Usman will be on his flight to India for the Border-Gavaskar series the next day. The left-handed batter also shared a meme on his Instagram handle that read, “Me waiting for my Indian Visa like… #stranded #dontleaveme #standard #anytimenow." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Usman Khawaja (@usman_khawajy) × The Australian team will first attend a four-day camp in Bengaluru before flying to Nagpur for the first Test. Upon announcing earlier that Australia will not play a tour game in India ahead of the marquee Test series, the team management arranged a two-day pre-series camp in Sydney where they practiced on torn and used pitches. ALSO READ: IND vs AUS 2023: Shreyas Iyer ruled out of Nagpur Test due to back injury Meanwhile, Usman Khawaja was recently awarded Australia’s Men’s Test Player of the Year for 2022 on Monday for his stellar show in the five-day format in the last year – where he scored 1020 runs in 12 matches at an impressive average of 78.46. The 36-year-old opener also made it to the ICC’s Test Team of the Year alongside teammates Marnus Labuschagne, captain Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon. Khawaja, who was part of Australia’s previous two tours to India in 2013 and 2017, is yet to play a Test there. A very good player of spin bowling, Islamabad-born Khawaja, during his last tour to Pakistan in March 2022, scored 496 runs in three Tests at an average of whopping 165.33. He scored two hundreds including his best of 160. This time against the spin-heavy Indian bowling line-up, he is expected to provide stability at the top. The four-match Test series begins on February 9th in Nagpur with Delhi (17-21 Feb), Dharamsala (1-5 Mar) and Ahmedabad (9-13 Mar) scheduled to host the remaining three Tests. Here’s Australia’s 18-man squad for India Tests – Pat Cummins (captain), Ashton Agar, Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Peter Handscomb, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Lance Morris, Todd Murphy, Matthew Renshaw, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Mitchell Swepson, David Warner

IND vs AUS 2023: Usman Khawaja misses India flight due to visa delay, set to travel on February 2nd

<p>Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli are regarded as two of the greatest ever players to play this sport. While Sachin was known as the God of cricket, Virat is well-known as King Kohli. Not only both have scored enormous amount of runs across formats, Sachin and Virat have more than 170 international centuries between&nbsp;them. Above all, both these stalwarts of cricket piled up all of this against some of the best bowlers the game has seen. Reigniting a debate on who is better among the two, Usman Khawaja and Pat Cummins had a chat over with Pat naming his pick.</p>

<p>During a teaser episode of Amazon Prime’s ‘The Test’ series released on the YouTube, Usman Khawaja and Test captain Pat Cummins were seen have a discussion where Usman happened to ask Pat to pick between Virat and Sachin, and Cummins chose Kohli.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-have-always-preferred-playing-matches-over-practice-says-mohammed-shami-on-managing-workload-554858">'I have always preferred playing matches over practice', says Mohammed Shami on managing workload</a></p>

<p>Explaining why he picked Kohli, Pat said only because he played against Sachin just once&nbsp;that too during a T20 game many years back, he just had to go for Kohli – against whom he has come across many a times in this career.</p>

<p>"I think I have played Sachin only once in a T20 years ago. So, I will say Virat," Cummins explained why he picked Virat over Sachin.</p>

<p>On the other hand, when he asked Khawaja to rank India’s original Fab Four in the order – which includes Sachin Tendulkar, Sourav Ganguly, VVS Laxman and Rahul Dravid, the left-handed batter went ahead with Sachin, then Dravid, Ganguly and in the end Laxman.</p>

<p>"I would go Tendulkar, one. Dravid, the wall, two. Three, Dada. Ganguly. Unfortunately, this hurts for me to say for Laxman too, I love watching Laxman bat, but lefties first," said Khawaja.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, both India and Australia will face off in the Border-Gavaskar series that begins on February 9th in Nagpur. India currently holds the trophy as they defeated the Aussies away 2-1 in 2021.</p>


Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli are regarded as two of the greatest ever players to play this sport. While Sachin was known as the God of cricket, Virat is well-known as King Kohli.

Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli are regarded as two of the greatest ever players to play this sport. While Sachin was known as the God of cricket, Virat is well-known as King Kohli. Not only both have scored enormous amount of runs across formats, Sachin and Virat have more than 170 international centuries between them. Above all, both these stalwarts of cricket piled up all of this against some of the best bowlers the game has seen. Reigniting a debate on who is better among the two, Usman Khawaja and Pat Cummins had a chat over with Pat naming his pick. During a teaser episode of Amazon Prime’s ‘The Test’ series released on the YouTube, Usman Khawaja and Test captain Pat Cummins were seen have a discussion where Usman happened to ask Pat to pick between Virat and Sachin, and Cummins chose Kohli. ALSO READ: 'I have always preferred playing matches over practice', says Mohammed Shami on managing workload Explaining why he picked Kohli, Pat said only because he played against Sachin just once that too during a T20 game many years back, he just had to go for Kohli – against whom he has come across many a times in this career. "I think I have played Sachin only once in a T20 years ago. So, I will say Virat," Cummins explained why he picked Virat over Sachin. On the other hand, when he asked Khawaja to rank India’s original Fab Four in the order – which includes Sachin Tendulkar, Sourav Ganguly, VVS Laxman and Rahul Dravid, the left-handed batter went ahead with Sachin, then Dravid, Ganguly and in the end Laxman. "I would go Tendulkar, one. Dravid, the wall, two. Three, Dada. Ganguly. Unfortunately, this hurts for me to say for Laxman too, I love watching Laxman bat, but lefties first," said Khawaja. Meanwhile, both India and Australia will face off in the Border-Gavaskar series that begins on February 9th in Nagpur. India currently holds the trophy as they defeated the Aussies away 2-1 in 2021.

Virat Kohli or Sachin Tendulkar? Australian Test captain Pat Cummins gives his take

<p>Worried about the Australian team management’s choice of not opting to play a tour game ahead of the highly-anticipated Test series against India, former Aussie veteran&nbsp;Ian Healy feels this decision could eventually cost the visitors. Healy said the tour games aren’t really for the in-form players&nbsp;but for the newcomers in the team and especially for the spinners. Healy looked concerned while addressing this issue to SEN Radio on Thursday, adding had there been any tour games scheduled in between the four Tests, it would have been better for struggling players or for those who are on bench to get some match time.</p>

<p>"I think the spinners would like a 'bowl-off' into it and so the non-natural players who need some repetition and to grind before getting back into it. It's not for everyone practice matches, but it is for some," Healy said.</p>

<p>He added, "How do we get players back into form? There'll be no games in between the four Tests either. Someone who is going to be sitting on the bench for three matches might get dragged in; we've got to be careful."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-2023-bcci-plans-to-drop-michael-clarke-from-commentary-panel-following-spat-with-partner-554366">IND vs AUS 2023: BCCI plans to drop Michael Clarke from commentary panel following spat with partner</a></p>

<p>As Australia picked a mixed bag of experienced and relatively younger players for the India series, Healy is of the opinion that someone like Lance Morris, who is tipped to make his Test debut some time during the Test series, would have loved to get the taste of what’s it like to play on turning tracks in the sub-continent.</p>

<p>"I am a little bit worried, not so much for an Usman (Khawaja) and that sort of personality that he's got with great natural flair. But a Lance Morris, I want to keep him revving, I would be looking to find games for a few of those (players). We want them to play games, see if there's a club game if there is such a thing in India. I don't need him (Morris) getting stale or bored without form behind him," Healy added.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, earlier, Usman Khawaja – one of Aussies’ best batters in Tests in the past year, gave thumbs up to head coach Andrew McDonald’s decision of Australia not playing any schedule games before the start of the Border-Gavaskar series. He said playing on Gabba-like wickets won’t help them prepare for the India tour where they are expected to be welcomed with rank-turners. The left-handed batter further added the team learnt from its past experiences and are happy to take on the spin-heavy Indian attack.</p>

<p>"Have you ever been on a pre-tour with us? They can be spinning wickets when we play but we go to the practice matches and they are green Gabba-like wickets out there so what's the point," Khawaja told the Australian media earlier.</p>

<p>"I think we have finally learned. When I heard we weren't going to have a practice game, I went up to (head coach) Andrew McDonald and said, 'good idea'," he added.</p>

<p>The four-match Test series will start on February 9th in Nagpur.</p>


Worried about the Australian team management’s choice of not opting to play a tour game ahead of the highly-anticipated Test series against India, former Aussie veteran Ian Healy feels this decision could eventually cost the visitors.

Worried about the Australian team management’s choice of not opting to play a tour game ahead of the highly-anticipated Test series against India, former Aussie veteran Ian Healy feels this decision could eventually cost the visitors. Healy said the tour games aren’t really for the in-form players but for the newcomers in the team and especially for the spinners. Healy looked concerned while addressing this issue to SEN Radio on Thursday, adding had there been any tour games scheduled in between the four Tests, it would have been better for struggling players or for those who are on bench to get some match time. "I think the spinners would like a 'bowl-off' into it and so the non-natural players who need some repetition and to grind before getting back into it. It's not for everyone practice matches, but it is for some," Healy said. He added, "How do we get players back into form? There'll be no games in between the four Tests either. Someone who is going to be sitting on the bench for three matches might get dragged in; we've got to be careful." ALSO READ: IND vs AUS 2023: BCCI plans to drop Michael Clarke from commentary panel following spat with partner As Australia picked a mixed bag of experienced and relatively younger players for the India series, Healy is of the opinion that someone like Lance Morris, who is tipped to make his Test debut some time during the Test series, would have loved to get the taste of what’s it like to play on turning tracks in the sub-continent. "I am a little bit worried, not so much for an Usman (Khawaja) and that sort of personality that he's got with great natural flair. But a Lance Morris, I want to keep him revving, I would be looking to find games for a few of those (players). We want them to play games, see if there's a club game if there is such a thing in India. I don't need him (Morris) getting stale or bored without form behind him," Healy added. Meanwhile, earlier, Usman Khawaja – one of Aussies’ best batters in Tests in the past year, gave thumbs up to head coach Andrew McDonald’s decision of Australia not playing any schedule games before the start of the Border-Gavaskar series. He said playing on Gabba-like wickets won’t help them prepare for the India tour where they are expected to be welcomed with rank-turners. The left-handed batter further added the team learnt from its past experiences and are happy to take on the spin-heavy Indian attack. "Have you ever been on a pre-tour with us? They can be spinning wickets when we play but we go to the practice matches and they are green Gabba-like wickets out there so what's the point," Khawaja told the Australian media earlier. "I think we have finally learned. When I heard we weren't going to have a practice game, I went up to (head coach) Andrew McDonald and said, 'good idea'," he added. The four-match Test series will start on February 9th in Nagpur.

IND vs AUS 2023: Ian Healy differs with Usman Khawaja's opinion of not having a tour game, says it can cost Oz

<p>The Australian summer has come to an end with the home team winning the three-match Test series against South Africa 2-0. With the final Test of the series at the SCG in Sydney ending in a draw, the mighty Aussies were denied a clean-sweep win over their rivals. Already struggling to put price on their wickets throughout the series, the Proteas batted sensibly on day 5 on Sunday to ensure they are playing for the draw and keeping their hopes of reaching the WTC final alive.</p>

<p>Deciding to bat first after winning the toss, the Boxing Day Test hero David Warner departed early. His fellow opener and the man in form, Usman Khawaja then stitched a partnership with Marnus Labuschagne, who scored a well-made 79 before falling to Anrich Nortje before stumps on day 1. Veteran Steve Smith began from where Marnus had left and contributed hugely with a brilliant record-breaking hundred the following day.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/star-new-zealand-pacer-matt-henry-pulls-out-of-pakistan-india-series-due-to-an-injury-550418">Star New Zealand pacer Matt Henry pulls out of Pakistan, India series due to an injury</a></p>

<p>While he departed on 104, Khawaja was building his innings on the other end. Getting some support from Travis Head, Khawaja inched closer to his first double hundred in Tests. Unfortunately, bad light and preceding rain didn’t give Khawaja the moment he had been eagerly waiting for. After a washout on day 3 and the delayed start on day 4, Australia decided to declare their innings on 475 for four, meaning Khawaja remained unbeaten on 195.</p>

<p>Giving themselves a chance against this&nbsp;weaken South African batting unit, the Aussies started putting pressure from the word go. Returning Josh Hazlewood picked two huge wickets in Dean Elgar and Temba Bavuma before captain Pat Cummins unleashed a deadly spell to put the visitors on the back foot.</p>

<p>Although there were handy contributions from Simon Harmer and Keshav Maharaj on day 5, South Africa’s first innings got folded on 255. With less overs remaining now, Australia’s chance of pulling a massive win looked bleak.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While the Protean opener Sarel Erwee played 125 balls for his unbeaten 42 in the second innings, defensive approach from Bavuma and Klassen helped South Africa draw the Test.</p>

<p>Australia will now travel to India for the four-match Test series, South Africa will be facing West Indies at home.</p>


The Australian summer has come to an end with the home team winning the three-match Test series against South Africa 2-0. With the final Test of the series at the SCG in Sydney ending in a draw, the mighty Aussies were denied a clean-sweep win over their rivals.

The Australian summer has come to an end with the home team winning the three-match Test series against South Africa 2-0. With the final Test of the series at the SCG in Sydney ending in a draw, the mighty Aussies were denied a clean-sweep win over their rivals. Already struggling to put price on their wickets throughout the series, the Proteas batted sensibly on day 5 on Sunday to ensure they are playing for the draw and keeping their hopes of reaching the WTC final alive. Deciding to bat first after winning the toss, the Boxing Day Test hero David Warner departed early. His fellow opener and the man in form, Usman Khawaja then stitched a partnership with Marnus Labuschagne, who scored a well-made 79 before falling to Anrich Nortje before stumps on day 1. Veteran Steve Smith began from where Marnus had left and contributed hugely with a brilliant record-breaking hundred the following day. ALSO READ: Star New Zealand pacer Matt Henry pulls out of Pakistan, India series due to an injury While he departed on 104, Khawaja was building his innings on the other end. Getting some support from Travis Head, Khawaja inched closer to his first double hundred in Tests. Unfortunately, bad light and preceding rain didn’t give Khawaja the moment he had been eagerly waiting for. After a washout on day 3 and the delayed start on day 4, Australia decided to declare their innings on 475 for four, meaning Khawaja remained unbeaten on 195. Giving themselves a chance against this weaken South African batting unit, the Aussies started putting pressure from the word go. Returning Josh Hazlewood picked two huge wickets in Dean Elgar and Temba Bavuma before captain Pat Cummins unleashed a deadly spell to put the visitors on the back foot. Although there were handy contributions from Simon Harmer and Keshav Maharaj on day 5, South Africa’s first innings got folded on 255. With less overs remaining now, Australia’s chance of pulling a massive win looked bleak. While the Protean opener Sarel Erwee played 125 balls for his unbeaten 42 in the second innings, defensive approach from Bavuma and Klassen helped South Africa draw the Test. Australia will now travel to India for the four-match Test series, South Africa will be facing West Indies at home.

AUS vs SA 2023: Australia claim series win over Proteas following rain-hit drawn Sydney Test

<p>Usman Khawaja is a veteran of 103 internationals (54 Tests, 40 ODIs and nine T20Is) for Team Australia. The left-hander has been part of Australia's 2019 ODI World Cup campaign and is also involved in their ongoing home series versus South Africa. Ahead of Australia's second and penultimate Test versus the Proteas, which is currently underway at the iconic MCG, Melbourne, Khawaja made a glaring claim. The left-hander, who is of Asian descent being born in Pakistan, shifted to Australia at a young age with his family members and has played all his cricket for the Aussies. However, he revealed that he has often been stopped and questioned by security three times at a hotel despite being in the national jersey.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Khawaja took to his official Twitter handle and recalled the times being stopped by hotel security staff after a journalist shared his experience on the social media platform. The 36-year-old veteran wrote, "You get use to it. I got stopped 3 times last year at our hotel, while in Australian Kit and asked if I was with the Australian Cricket team... #youdontlookaustralian #orsotheysay"</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">You get use to it. I got stopped 3 times last year at our hotel, while in Australian Kit and asked if I was with the Australian Cricket team... 🤦🏾‍♂️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/youdontlookaustralian?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#youdontlookaustralian</a>😂 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/orsotheysay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#orsotheysay</a> <a href="https://t.co/XSpsX0KXdL">https://t.co/XSpsX0KXdL</a></p>
— Usman Khawaja (@Uz_Khawaja) <a href="https://twitter.com/Uz_Khawaja/status/1606810466550181890?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 25, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/david-warner-injured-while-celebrating-wildly-after-slamming-200-vs-sa-in-mcg-test-gets-retired-hurt-watch-547081">David Warner injured while celebrating wildly after slamming 200 vs SA in MCG Test, gets retired hurt - WATCH</a></strong></p>

<p>Khawaja has amassed&nbsp;3,966 runs in 54 Tests at an average of 46.11 along with 12 centuries. In 40 ODIs, the left-hander has 1,554 runs at 42 whereas he has only played a handful of T20Is (nine), scoring 241 runs. While he remains a regular in Tests, he hasn't featured in Australia's white-ball setup since 2019. In the ongoing SA Tests, he has had scores of 11, 2 and 1 and will like to make amends in the remaining outings in the series. After this, Australia will tour India for four Tests and gear up to play the WTC final -- with Pat Cummins &amp; Co. almost through to the final -- before the action shifts to Ashes 2023 in England.</p>


Usman Khawaja is a veteran of 103 internationals (54 Tests, 40 ODIs and nine T20Is) for Team Australia. The left-hander has been part of Australia's 2019 ODI World Cup campaign and is also involved in their ongoing home series versus South Africa.

Usman Khawaja is a veteran of 103 internationals (54 Tests, 40 ODIs and nine T20Is) for Team Australia. The left-hander has been part of Australia's 2019 ODI World Cup campaign and is also involved in their ongoing home series versus South Africa. Ahead of Australia's second and penultimate Test versus the Proteas, which is currently underway at the iconic MCG, Melbourne, Khawaja made a glaring claim. The left-hander, who is of Asian descent being born in Pakistan, shifted to Australia at a young age with his family members and has played all his cricket for the Aussies. However, he revealed that he has often been stopped and questioned by security three times at a hotel despite being in the national jersey. Khawaja took to his official Twitter handle and recalled the times being stopped by hotel security staff after a journalist shared his experience on the social media platform. The 36-year-old veteran wrote, "You get use to it. I got stopped 3 times last year at our hotel, while in Australian Kit and asked if I was with the Australian Cricket team... #youdontlookaustralian #orsotheysay" You get use to it. I got stopped 3 times last year at our hotel, while in Australian Kit and asked if I was with the Australian Cricket team... 🤦🏾‍♂️#youdontlookaustralian😂 #orsotheysay https://t.co/XSpsX0KXdL — Usman Khawaja (@Uz_Khawaja) December 25, 2022 × Also read: David Warner injured while celebrating wildly after slamming 200 vs SA in MCG Test, gets retired hurt - WATCH Khawaja has amassed 3,966 runs in 54 Tests at an average of 46.11 along with 12 centuries. In 40 ODIs, the left-hander has 1,554 runs at 42 whereas he has only played a handful of T20Is (nine), scoring 241 runs. While he remains a regular in Tests, he hasn't featured in Australia's white-ball setup since 2019. In the ongoing SA Tests, he has had scores of 11, 2 and 1 and will like to make amends in the remaining outings in the series. After this, Australia will tour India for four Tests and gear up to play the WTC final -- with Pat Cummins & Co. almost through to the final -- before the action shifts to Ashes 2023 in England.

'I got...': Usman Khawaja recalls being stopped by hotel security despite being in Australian jersey

<p>The debate regarding ODI cricket's relevance in the present era continues. Over the past few weeks, many former, as well as active cricketers and experts of the game,&nbsp;have opined on whether ODI cricket is losing its sheen and feel it cannot be compared to the shortest format in terms of entertainment value.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When it comes to T20 cricket, it is continuing its rapid rise with each passing year as many non-cricketing countries have also taken a liking to the sport by investing their time and energy in the format. On the other hand, Test cricket has seen some humdingers in the last few years and the emergence of the ICC World Test Championship has acted as a huge boost for the purest form of the game. Amid all this, ODI cricket remains stagnant and many feel several bilateral 50-over series need to cut down or the format can exist only in the form of the World Cup.</p>

<p>Amid all this, Ben Stokes' shocking ODI retirement -- citing difficulty in sustaining himself at the top level by playing all formats -- has intensified the whole debate. On Wednesday (July 27), ICC chief executive George Allardice said the structuring of the game's three formats was part of the discussion&nbsp;at the governing body's annual general meeting in Birmingham, where the Future Tours Programme (FTP) 2023-27 got finalised.</p>

<p>"I think at this stage there is some discussion, not specifically about ODIs, but about the mix of formats within the calendar," Allardice said in a video conference as per a report in Sky Sports. "Countries have been, in their FTPs, are still scheduling a healthy number of ODIs as well."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cut-odis-from-50-to-40-overs-ravi-shastri-gives-bold-suggestion-to-make-odi-cricket-entertaining-500704"><strong>'Cut ODIs from 50 to 40 overs': Ravi Shastri gives bold suggestion to make ODI cricket entertaining</strong></a></p>

<p>Further, Allardice stated that some members put "particular attention on their domestic leagues" but insisted that their commitment to international and bilateral cricket remains "as strong as it's ever been".</p>

<p>"Each of them has to manage that balance between domestic competitions, their international schedule and the management of their players. Each of those boards is in a slightly different situation. So there isn't a one-size-fits-all approach to that balancing issue," he added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wi-vs-ind-shikhar-dhawan-led-india-on-cusp-of-attaining-massive-feat-in-3rd-odi-in-trinidad-500893"><strong>WI vs IND: Shikhar Dhawan-led India on cusp of attaining MASSIVE feat in 3rd ODI in Trinidad</strong></a></p>

<p>Recently, former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri said on Fan Code, "There is no harm in shortening the span of the game. When one-day cricket started, it was of 60 overs. When we won the World Cup in 1983, it was of 60 overs. After that, people thought that 60 overs were a bit too long. People found that span of overs between 20 to 40 hard to digest. So they reduced it from 60 to 50."</p>

<p>"So years have gone by now since that decision so why not reduce it from 50 to 40 now. Because you got to be forward-thinking and evolve. It stayed for 50 for too long,” he added.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the likes of Wasim Akram, Shahid Afridi and Usman Khawaja have also echoed similar sentiments whereas the likes of Quinton de Kock and Eoin Morgan have continued to back the 50-over format.</p>


The debate regarding ODI cricket's relevance in the present era continues. Over the past few weeks, many former, as well as active cricketers and experts of the game, have opined on whether ODI cricket is losing its sheen and feel it cannot be compared to the shortest format in terms of entertainment value.

The debate regarding ODI cricket's relevance in the present era continues. Over the past few weeks, many former, as well as active cricketers and experts of the game, have opined on whether ODI cricket is losing its sheen and feel it cannot be compared to the shortest format in terms of entertainment value. When it comes to T20 cricket, it is continuing its rapid rise with each passing year as many non-cricketing countries have also taken a liking to the sport by investing their time and energy in the format. On the other hand, Test cricket has seen some humdingers in the last few years and the emergence of the ICC World Test Championship has acted as a huge boost for the purest form of the game. Amid all this, ODI cricket remains stagnant and many feel several bilateral 50-over series need to cut down or the format can exist only in the form of the World Cup. Amid all this, Ben Stokes' shocking ODI retirement -- citing difficulty in sustaining himself at the top level by playing all formats -- has intensified the whole debate. On Wednesday (July 27), ICC chief executive George Allardice said the structuring of the game's three formats was part of the discussion at the governing body's annual general meeting in Birmingham, where the Future Tours Programme (FTP) 2023-27 got finalised. "I think at this stage there is some discussion, not specifically about ODIs, but about the mix of formats within the calendar," Allardice said in a video conference as per a report in Sky Sports. "Countries have been, in their FTPs, are still scheduling a healthy number of ODIs as well." ALSO READ | 'Cut ODIs from 50 to 40 overs': Ravi Shastri gives bold suggestion to make ODI cricket entertaining Further, Allardice stated that some members put "particular attention on their domestic leagues" but insisted that their commitment to international and bilateral cricket remains "as strong as it's ever been". "Each of them has to manage that balance between domestic competitions, their international schedule and the management of their players. Each of those boards is in a slightly different situation. So there isn't a one-size-fits-all approach to that balancing issue," he added. ALSO READ | WI vs IND: Shikhar Dhawan-led India on cusp of attaining MASSIVE feat in 3rd ODI in Trinidad Recently, former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri said on Fan Code, "There is no harm in shortening the span of the game. When one-day cricket started, it was of 60 overs. When we won the World Cup in 1983, it was of 60 overs. After that, people thought that 60 overs were a bit too long. People found that span of overs between 20 to 40 hard to digest. So they reduced it from 60 to 50." "So years have gone by now since that decision so why not reduce it from 50 to 40 now. Because you got to be forward-thinking and evolve. It stayed for 50 for too long,” he added. Meanwhile, the likes of Wasim Akram, Shahid Afridi and Usman Khawaja have also echoed similar sentiments whereas the likes of Quinton de Kock and Eoin Morgan have continued to back the 50-over format.

Is ODI cricket on the decline? ICC plays down threat to shorter format

<p>Former India captain Kapil Dev had recently suggested Virat Kohli should be dropped from India's T20I team if he cannot bounce back from his ongoing lean patch in international cricket. Kohli, who has not scored a century in international cricket since November 2019, has struggled to score runs for India consistently across all formats. His dismal run has continued in the ongoing T20I series between India and England.</p>

<p>Kohli was dismissed on just 1 off 3 balls in the second T20I against England on Saturday leading to several former cricketers and experts questioning his place in India's T20I team. The former Indian skipper's horrendous form is also a huge concern for Team India ahead of the T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia later this year.</p>

<p>Kohli had a disappointing campaign for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in IPL 2022 following which he was rested from the South Africa T20I series at home. He made his comeback for India in the one-off Test against England where he failed to deliver before recording another flop show in the 2nd T20I against the hosts.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/if-r-ashwin-can-be-dropped-from-tests-why-cant-virat-kohli-be-dropped-from-t20is-kapil-dev-495809">If R Ashwin can be dropped from Tests why can't Virat Kohli be dropped from T20Is: Kapil Dev</a></p>

<p>Amid his ongoing rough patch, the legendary Kapil Dev had raised questions over his spot in the team and said Kohli can be dropped from the T20I team if someone like R Ashwin can be benched from the Test team.</p>

<p>"Yes, now the situation is such that you might be forced to bench Kohli from T20 playing eleven. If world No. 2 bowler Ashwin can be dropped from Test side then (once upon a time) world No. 1 batter can also be dropped," Kapil had said on <em>ABP News.</em>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rahul-dravid-rohit-sharma-cant-keep-picking-virat-kohli-for-his-past-performances-michael-vaughan-496155">Rahul Dravid, Rohit Sharma can't keep picking Virat Kohli for his past performances: Michael Vaughan</a></p>

<p>ICC took to Instagram to share a post with Kapil's latest comments about Kohli. Australian batter Usman Khawaja reacted to the post and took a dig at Kapil as he reminded Kohli's critics about his numbers in the shortest format.&nbsp;"Averages 50 at almost 140. Good call. Australia Agrees," Khawaja wrote in the comments section.</p>

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<img alt="Khawaja comment" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f4037d9b-2e4d-49e7-9347-7d689dde48af" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Khawaja%20comments_0.png" /></p>

<p>Kohli has so far played 98 T20Is for India in his career and has amassed 3297 runs at a brilliant average of 50.72 and a strike rate of 137.54. He has 30 half-centuries under his belt in the shortest format and is one of the highest run-getters in T20Is.</p>


Former India captain Kapil Dev had recently suggested Virat Kohli should be dropped from India's T20I team if he cannot bounce back from his ongoing lean patch in international cricket.

Former India captain Kapil Dev had recently suggested Virat Kohli should be dropped from India's T20I team if he cannot bounce back from his ongoing lean patch in international cricket. Kohli, who has not scored a century in international cricket since November 2019, has struggled to score runs for India consistently across all formats. His dismal run has continued in the ongoing T20I series between India and England. Kohli was dismissed on just 1 off 3 balls in the second T20I against England on Saturday leading to several former cricketers and experts questioning his place in India's T20I team. The former Indian skipper's horrendous form is also a huge concern for Team India ahead of the T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia later this year. Kohli had a disappointing campaign for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in IPL 2022 following which he was rested from the South Africa T20I series at home. He made his comeback for India in the one-off Test against England where he failed to deliver before recording another flop show in the 2nd T20I against the hosts. Also Read: If R Ashwin can be dropped from Tests why can't Virat Kohli be dropped from T20Is: Kapil Dev Amid his ongoing rough patch, the legendary Kapil Dev had raised questions over his spot in the team and said Kohli can be dropped from the T20I team if someone like R Ashwin can be benched from the Test team. "Yes, now the situation is such that you might be forced to bench Kohli from T20 playing eleven. If world No. 2 bowler Ashwin can be dropped from Test side then (once upon a time) world No. 1 batter can also be dropped," Kapil had said on ABP News. Also Read: Rahul Dravid, Rohit Sharma can't keep picking Virat Kohli for his past performances: Michael Vaughan ICC took to Instagram to share a post with Kapil's latest comments about Kohli. Australian batter Usman Khawaja reacted to the post and took a dig at Kapil as he reminded Kohli's critics about his numbers in the shortest format. "Averages 50 at almost 140. Good call. Australia Agrees," Khawaja wrote in the comments section. View this post on Instagram A post shared by ICC (@icc) × Kohli has so far played 98 T20Is for India in his career and has amassed 3297 runs at a brilliant average of 50.72 and a strike rate of 137.54. He has 30 half-centuries under his belt in the shortest format and is one of the highest run-getters in T20Is.

'Good call': Usman Khawaja takes a dig at Kapil Dev for questioning Virat Kohli's spot in India's T20I team

<p>Usman Khawaja's marathon 160 and Alex Carey's career-best 93 helped Australia rack up 505 for eight against Pakistan on day two of the second test on Sunday.</p>

<p>It was a day of painstaking accumulation at the National Stadium where the Pakistan bowlers kept the run rate under check but only five wickets fell in three sessions for all their hard work under a harsh sun.</p>

<p>Mitchell Starc saw off 95 deliveries for his dour unbeaten 28 and Australia captain Pat Cummins was unbeaten on nought at the close.</p>

<p>"Tomorrow we'll see what the skipper does but it's great to have 500 runs on the board," Carey said.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rishabh-pant-breaks-kapil-devs-40-year-old-record-with-sensational-fifty-in-pin-ball-test-against-sri-lanka-461919">Rishabh Pant breaks Kapil Dev's 40-year-old record with sensational fifty in pink-ball Test against Sri Lanka</a></p>

<p>"Hopefully, the pitch starts to deteriorate tomorrow and on day four and we can create those 20 chances.</p>

<p>"So the more runs we get now, the better position we'll be in if we have to bat again."</p>

<p>Earlier, after Australia resumed on 251-3, Shaheen Afridi subjected Nathan Lyon to a bouncer barrage but the nightwatchman did not flinch and went on the attack with the pull shot.</p>

<p>Lyon hit five fours in an entertaining 38 before he had his stumps rearranged by an express delivery from Faheem Ashraf, ending a 54-run stand with Khawaja.</p>

<p>Khawaja had shelved the reverse sweep on Saturday but Pakistan were convinced they had him caught in the slips when the opener attempted the shot against Nauman Ali.</p>

<p>However, replays ruled out any ball-bat contact and Pakistan lost a review.</p>

<p>Khawaja duly brought up his 150 but could not better his highest score of 174 as Sajid Khan dealt a double blow.</p>

<p>The off-spinner trapped Travis Head lbw for 23 and spun one past Khawaja's bat to hit the off-stump.</p>

<p>Islamabad-born Khawaja`s third century in four tests included 15 fours and a six.</p>

<p>Cameron Green, who was not even born when Australia last toured Pakistan in 1998, made 28 before Nauman confounded him with a sharp-turning ball that pitched outside leg stump and hit the off.</p>

<p>Carey swept well and Starc batted resolutely to frustrate Pakistan and take Australia past the 500-mark.</p>

<p>Pakistan captain Babar Azam brought himself on to bowl, partly to give respite to his overworked spinners, and struck in his first over.</p>

<p>In his haste to reach the 100 mark before close of play, Carey went for a slog sweep but lost his stump to a delivery from part-time spinner Babar that kept low.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jasprit-bumrah-bags-maiden-test-fifer-at-home-records-best-figures-by-an-indian-against-sri-lanka-461902">Jasprit Bumrah bags maiden Test fifer at home, records best figures by an Indian against Sri Lanka</a></p>

<p>His stellar knock included seven fours and two sixes.</p>

<p>Carey left the field to a standing ovation from his teammates after adding 98 runs with Starc for the eighth wicket.</p>

<p>"Our plan was to bowl stump-to-stump and not leak too many runs," Pakistan all-rounder Faheem told reporters.</p>

<p>"The pitch was slow. So even when we were getting reverse swing, their batsmen had enough time to negotiate it."</p>


Usman Khawaja's marathon 160 and Alex Carey's career-best 93 helped Australia rack up 505 for eight against Pakistan on day two of the second test on Sunday. It was a day of painstaking accumulation at the National Stadium where the Pakistan bowlers kept the run rate under check but only five wickets fell in three sessions for all their hard work under a harsh sun.

Usman Khawaja's marathon 160 and Alex Carey's career-best 93 helped Australia rack up 505 for eight against Pakistan on day two of the second test on Sunday. It was a day of painstaking accumulation at the National Stadium where the Pakistan bowlers kept the run rate under check but only five wickets fell in three sessions for all their hard work under a harsh sun. Mitchell Starc saw off 95 deliveries for his dour unbeaten 28 and Australia captain Pat Cummins was unbeaten on nought at the close. "Tomorrow we'll see what the skipper does but it's great to have 500 runs on the board," Carey said. ALSO READ: Rishabh Pant breaks Kapil Dev's 40-year-old record with sensational fifty in pink-ball Test against Sri Lanka "Hopefully, the pitch starts to deteriorate tomorrow and on day four and we can create those 20 chances. "So the more runs we get now, the better position we'll be in if we have to bat again." Earlier, after Australia resumed on 251-3, Shaheen Afridi subjected Nathan Lyon to a bouncer barrage but the nightwatchman did not flinch and went on the attack with the pull shot. Lyon hit five fours in an entertaining 38 before he had his stumps rearranged by an express delivery from Faheem Ashraf, ending a 54-run stand with Khawaja. Khawaja had shelved the reverse sweep on Saturday but Pakistan were convinced they had him caught in the slips when the opener attempted the shot against Nauman Ali. However, replays ruled out any ball-bat contact and Pakistan lost a review. Khawaja duly brought up his 150 but could not better his highest score of 174 as Sajid Khan dealt a double blow. The off-spinner trapped Travis Head lbw for 23 and spun one past Khawaja's bat to hit the off-stump. Islamabad-born Khawaja`s third century in four tests included 15 fours and a six. Cameron Green, who was not even born when Australia last toured Pakistan in 1998, made 28 before Nauman confounded him with a sharp-turning ball that pitched outside leg stump and hit the off. Carey swept well and Starc batted resolutely to frustrate Pakistan and take Australia past the 500-mark. Pakistan captain Babar Azam brought himself on to bowl, partly to give respite to his overworked spinners, and struck in his first over. In his haste to reach the 100 mark before close of play, Carey went for a slog sweep but lost his stump to a delivery from part-time spinner Babar that kept low. ALSO READ: Jasprit Bumrah bags maiden Test fifer at home, records best figures by an Indian against Sri Lanka His stellar knock included seven fours and two sixes. Carey left the field to a standing ovation from his teammates after adding 98 runs with Starc for the eighth wicket. "Our plan was to bowl stump-to-stump and not leak too many runs," Pakistan all-rounder Faheem told reporters. "The pitch was slow. So even when we were getting reverse swing, their batsmen had enough time to negotiate it."

Pakistan vs Australia, 2nd Test: Usman Khawaja, Alex Carey power visitors to 505-8 on Day 2 in Karachi

<p>Former Pakistan captain Waqar Younis has slammed Babar Azam &amp; Co. for their 'ridiculous' tactics in the ongoing second Test against Australia at the National Stadium in Karachi. Australia have dominated Pakistan so far in the second Test as the visitors have already crossed the 400-run mark in their first innings after a brilliant century from Usman Khawaja.</p>

<p>The Pakistan-born Australian opener played a sublime knock of 160 runs off 369 deliveries laced with 15 fours and a solitary six to set the stage for a big total for his side. Khawaja was well complimented by the likes of Steve Smith (72) and Alex Carey, who also notched up a half-century is currently unbeaten out in the middle.</p>

<p>As Pakistan bowlers struggled to take wickets on Day and Day 2 of the second Test in Karachi, legendary pacer Younis questioned the hosts' tactics. While speaking on commentary, Younis said it felt like Pakistan were playing for a draw right from Day 1 of the second Test and that their tactics have been 'ridiculous'.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/would-they-have-done-it-against-india-brathwaite-slams-england-for-disrespectful-tactics-vs-west-indies-461856">Would they have done it against India? Brathwaite slams England for 'disrespectful' tactics vs West Indies</a></p>

<p>"The tactics I'm seeing at the moment is like we're looking for a draw on the first day. It's ridiculous," Younis said on commentary as he slammed Pakistan.</p>

<p>Khawaja and other Aussie batters dominated the proceedings on Day 1 of the Karachi Test as the left-hander's hundred guided the visitors to 251/3 at stumps. Khawaja continued from where he had left on Day 3 and added a 54-run stand for the fourth wicket with Nathan Lyon (38) before adding another 43 runs for the fifth wicket with Travis Head (23).</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/are-you-in-jail-indian-fans-troll-pcb-as-marnus-labuschagne-shares-pic-of-his-daal-and-roti-meal-461639">'Are you in jail?': Indian fans troll PCB as Marnus Labuschagne shares pic of his 'daal and roti' meal</a></p>

<p>After Khawaja's dismissal, half-centurion Carey combined with Cameron Green (28) for a 45-run stand for the seventh wicket to take Australia past the 400-run mark. The visitors are in a strong position in the game and will be looking to bowl out Pakistan quickly once they invite the hosts to bat in their first innings.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Former Pakistan captain Waqar Younis has slammed Babar Azam & Co. for their 'ridiculous' tactics in the ongoing second Test against Australia at the National Stadium in Karachi.

Former Pakistan captain Waqar Younis has slammed Babar Azam & Co. for their 'ridiculous' tactics in the ongoing second Test against Australia at the National Stadium in Karachi. Australia have dominated Pakistan so far in the second Test as the visitors have already crossed the 400-run mark in their first innings after a brilliant century from Usman Khawaja. The Pakistan-born Australian opener played a sublime knock of 160 runs off 369 deliveries laced with 15 fours and a solitary six to set the stage for a big total for his side. Khawaja was well complimented by the likes of Steve Smith (72) and Alex Carey, who also notched up a half-century is currently unbeaten out in the middle. As Pakistan bowlers struggled to take wickets on Day and Day 2 of the second Test in Karachi, legendary pacer Younis questioned the hosts' tactics. While speaking on commentary, Younis said it felt like Pakistan were playing for a draw right from Day 1 of the second Test and that their tactics have been 'ridiculous'. Also Read: Would they have done it against India? Brathwaite slams England for 'disrespectful' tactics vs West Indies "The tactics I'm seeing at the moment is like we're looking for a draw on the first day. It's ridiculous," Younis said on commentary as he slammed Pakistan. Khawaja and other Aussie batters dominated the proceedings on Day 1 of the Karachi Test as the left-hander's hundred guided the visitors to 251/3 at stumps. Khawaja continued from where he had left on Day 3 and added a 54-run stand for the fourth wicket with Nathan Lyon (38) before adding another 43 runs for the fifth wicket with Travis Head (23). Also Read: 'Are you in jail?': Indian fans troll PCB as Marnus Labuschagne shares pic of his 'daal and roti' meal After Khawaja's dismissal, half-centurion Carey combined with Cameron Green (28) for a 45-run stand for the seventh wicket to take Australia past the 400-run mark. The visitors are in a strong position in the game and will be looking to bowl out Pakistan quickly once they invite the hosts to bat in their first innings.

'Looking for a draw on Day 1': Waqar Younis slams Babar & Co. as Australia dominate Pakistan in 2nd Test

<p>Usman Khawaja smashed his 11th test hundred and forged a 159-run partnership with Steve Smith to power Australia to 251 for three on the opening day of the second test against Pakistan on Saturday.</p>

<p>Islamabad-born Khawaja had fallen agonisingly short of a hundred in the opening test in Rawalpindi where he top-scored for his side with a breezy 97.</p>

<p>The elegant left-hander made amends in Karachi where he shelved the reverse sweep and made an unbeaten 127, which included 13 fours and a six.</p>

<p>Smith made 72 before falling to Hasan Ali in the penultimate over of the day.<br />
Nightwatchman Nathan Lyon had yet to open his account.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/womens-world-cup-century-against-west-indies-among-my-top-three-knocks-reckons-smriti-mandhana-461625">Women's World Cup: Century against West Indies among my top three knocks, says Smriti Mandhana</a></p>

<p>"It would`ve been nice to have Smith there at the end too but we had a good partnership," Khawaja said.</p>

<p>"We've still got plenty of batting to come.</p>

<p>"It started to reverse in the second session and made it tough to score against the pace bowlers."</p>

<p>Earlier, Australia got off to a strong start after Pat Cummins elected to bat on a dry surface at the National Stadium.</p>

<p>Khawaja looked in sublime touch and scored freely on the leg-side after being fed regularly on his pad.</p>

<p>His opening partner David Warner was less convincing, though, surviving a couple of LBW appeals and getting hit on his shoulder by a short delivery from Hasan Ali.</p>

<p>Warner hit Sajid Khan for a six to bring up Australia's 50 in the 11th over.<br />
Sajid conceded two more sixes in his fourth over, prompting Pakistan captain Babar Azam to take the spinner out of the attack.</p>

<p>Seamer Faheem Ashraf broke the 82-run opening stand with a back of a length delivery that Warner, who made 36, could only edge to Mohammad Rizwan behind the stumps.</p>

<p>Pakistan tasted a second success soon afterwards when Sajid ran out Marnus Labuschagne for a duck with a direct throw from mid-off.</p>

<p>Khawaja and Smith steadied the ship batting through the second session.<br />
Khawaja took a single off Nauman Ali to bring up his third hundred in four tests since his recall in January after more than two years'&nbsp;absence.</p>

<p>Pakistan spinners resorted to a negative line after tea, bowling way down the leg side, to stem the run flow and the batsmen were happy to just pad them away.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/are-you-in-jail-indian-fans-troll-pcb-as-marnus-labuschagne-shares-pic-of-his-daal-and-roti-meal-461639">'Are you in jail?': Indian fans troll PCB as Marnus Labuschagne shares pic of his 'daal and roti' meal</a></p>

<p>"In the last session, they bowled pretty leg side and had some negative plans to see if we'd play some shots," Khawaja said.</p>

<p>"We decided not to and didn't want to give them any free wickets."<br />
Smith, who made 78 in Rawalpindi, once again failed to convert his fifty into a hundred and edged Hasan for Faheem to take a low one-handed catch at second slip.</p>

<p>Leg-spinner Mitchell Swepson makes his test debut, joining Lyon in Australia's two-man spin attack with Josh Hazlewood sitting out.</p>


Usman Khawaja smashed his 11th test hundred and forged a 159-run partnership with Steve Smith to power Australia to 251 for three on the opening day of the second test against Pakistan on Saturday.

Usman Khawaja smashed his 11th test hundred and forged a 159-run partnership with Steve Smith to power Australia to 251 for three on the opening day of the second test against Pakistan on Saturday. Islamabad-born Khawaja had fallen agonisingly short of a hundred in the opening test in Rawalpindi where he top-scored for his side with a breezy 97. The elegant left-hander made amends in Karachi where he shelved the reverse sweep and made an unbeaten 127, which included 13 fours and a six. Smith made 72 before falling to Hasan Ali in the penultimate over of the day. Nightwatchman Nathan Lyon had yet to open his account. ALSO READ: Women's World Cup: Century against West Indies among my top three knocks, says Smriti Mandhana "It would`ve been nice to have Smith there at the end too but we had a good partnership," Khawaja said. "We've still got plenty of batting to come. "It started to reverse in the second session and made it tough to score against the pace bowlers." Earlier, Australia got off to a strong start after Pat Cummins elected to bat on a dry surface at the National Stadium. Khawaja looked in sublime touch and scored freely on the leg-side after being fed regularly on his pad. His opening partner David Warner was less convincing, though, surviving a couple of LBW appeals and getting hit on his shoulder by a short delivery from Hasan Ali. Warner hit Sajid Khan for a six to bring up Australia's 50 in the 11th over. Sajid conceded two more sixes in his fourth over, prompting Pakistan captain Babar Azam to take the spinner out of the attack. Seamer Faheem Ashraf broke the 82-run opening stand with a back of a length delivery that Warner, who made 36, could only edge to Mohammad Rizwan behind the stumps. Pakistan tasted a second success soon afterwards when Sajid ran out Marnus Labuschagne for a duck with a direct throw from mid-off. Khawaja and Smith steadied the ship batting through the second session. Khawaja took a single off Nauman Ali to bring up his third hundred in four tests since his recall in January after more than two years' absence. Pakistan spinners resorted to a negative line after tea, bowling way down the leg side, to stem the run flow and the batsmen were happy to just pad them away. ALSO READ: 'Are you in jail?': Indian fans troll PCB as Marnus Labuschagne shares pic of his 'daal and roti' meal "In the last session, they bowled pretty leg side and had some negative plans to see if we'd play some shots," Khawaja said. "We decided not to and didn't want to give them any free wickets." Smith, who made 78 in Rawalpindi, once again failed to convert his fifty into a hundred and edged Hasan for Faheem to take a low one-handed catch at second slip. Leg-spinner Mitchell Swepson makes his test debut, joining Lyon in Australia's two-man spin attack with Josh Hazlewood sitting out.

Pakistan vs Australia, 2nd Test: Usman Khawaja's century power visitors to 251-3 on Day 1 in Karachi

<p>Indian Premier League (IPL) is the biggest T20 cricket league in the world at present. Since its inception in 2008, IPL has witnessed tremendous growth with each passing year and has become one of the most-followed sporting events across the globe. Cricketers around the world dream of playing in the IPL, which has over the years produced a number of superstars for several national teams.</p>

<p>IPL has the best of players from all major cricketing nations plying their trade in the tournament. The Indian T20 league has often been compared with the likes of the Big Bash League (BBL) in Australia and the Pakistan Super League (PSL) in Pakistan, however, IPL remains above them all with the sheer amount of talent on display and the huge finances involved.</p>

<p>IPL also remains the only T20 franchise league to feature Indian players which makes it stand out from other T20 leagues around the world. Recently, Australian cricketer Usman Khawaja was asked about the comparisons between IPL and PSL. The Aussie batter said there was no competition between the two leagues as IPL is the best hands down.</p>

<p>"IPL is the strongest in the world. That's hands down. That's not really a contest there (between IPL and PSL) because at the end of the day they have all the world come to them and they also have the only league in the world that has Indian cricketers. So, it ends up becoming the best league in the world," said Khawaja while interacting to media in Pakistan ahead of Australia's first Test against the hosts in Rawalpindi.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-in-our-hands-jasprit-bumrah-reacts-to-virat-kohlis-100th-test-being-played-behind-closed-doors-457824">'Not in our hands': Jasprit Bumrah reacts to Virat Kohli's 100th Test being played behind closed doors</a></p>

<p>Khawaja has just played one season in the Indian Premier League when he was part of the Rising Pune Supergiants franchise in IPL 2016. The Aussie batter had scored&nbsp;127 runs in six matches for the now-defunct franchise. He had enlisted his name for the IPL 2022 mega auction this year but remained unsold.</p>

<p>The new season of the Indian Premier League is all set to get underway from March 26 this year. The new season will be played in India with Mumbai and Pune hosting the entire league stage. The league stage will consists of a total of 70 matches.</p>


Indian Premier League (IPL) is the biggest T20 cricket league in the world at present. Since its inception in 2008, IPL has witnessed tremendous growth with each passing year and has become one of the most-followed sporting events across the globe.

Indian Premier League (IPL) is the biggest T20 cricket league in the world at present. Since its inception in 2008, IPL has witnessed tremendous growth with each passing year and has become one of the most-followed sporting events across the globe. Cricketers around the world dream of playing in the IPL, which has over the years produced a number of superstars for several national teams. IPL has the best of players from all major cricketing nations plying their trade in the tournament. The Indian T20 league has often been compared with the likes of the Big Bash League (BBL) in Australia and the Pakistan Super League (PSL) in Pakistan, however, IPL remains above them all with the sheer amount of talent on display and the huge finances involved. IPL also remains the only T20 franchise league to feature Indian players which makes it stand out from other T20 leagues around the world. Recently, Australian cricketer Usman Khawaja was asked about the comparisons between IPL and PSL. The Aussie batter said there was no competition between the two leagues as IPL is the best hands down. "IPL is the strongest in the world. That's hands down. That's not really a contest there (between IPL and PSL) because at the end of the day they have all the world come to them and they also have the only league in the world that has Indian cricketers. So, it ends up becoming the best league in the world," said Khawaja while interacting to media in Pakistan ahead of Australia's first Test against the hosts in Rawalpindi. Also Read: 'Not in our hands': Jasprit Bumrah reacts to Virat Kohli's 100th Test being played behind closed doors Khawaja has just played one season in the Indian Premier League when he was part of the Rising Pune Supergiants franchise in IPL 2016. The Aussie batter had scored 127 runs in six matches for the now-defunct franchise. He had enlisted his name for the IPL 2022 mega auction this year but remained unsold. The new season of the Indian Premier League is all set to get underway from March 26 this year. The new season will be played in India with Mumbai and Pune hosting the entire league stage. The league stage will consists of a total of 70 matches.

IPL best league in the world hands down, not really a contest with PSL: Usman Khawaja

<p>Australia thumped England by 146 runs in the fifth and final Ashes Test of the 2021/22 edition, held Down Under, on Sunday (January 16). After Root &amp; Co. had ensured to have prevented a whitewash, drawing the fourth and penultimate Test in Sydney, the visitors came to the series finale with an aim to sign off with a consolation win.</p>

<p>Opting to bowl first, England dismissed Australia for 303 -- thanks to Travis Head's 101 -- before the Three Lions bundled out for 188. Despite the Aussies managing only 155 in their second essay, Pat Cummins &amp; Co. gave England a stiff 271-run target on Day 3 on Sunday. Root &amp; Co. collapsed and were dismissed for 124 to lose the clash on the third day, in Hobart, by 146 runs.</p>

<p>Hence, Australia claimed the series 4-0 and went wild in their celebrations. During the team picture, after the post-match presentation at Bellerive Oval, Hobart, Usman Khawaja (who scored twin centuries in the fourth Test) had to move away from his teammates as they opened the champagne bottles. The Pakistani-born Aussie cricketer's&nbsp;religion prevents him from indulging in such celebrations. To this, Captain Cummins asked the team members to keep the champagne away for a bit to include Khawaja during the photo. <strong>Here's the video of Cummins' gesture for Khawaja:</strong></p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-police-intervene-as-australia-get-too-loud-during-celebrations-after-thumping-ashes-win-445674"><strong>WATCH: Police intervene as Australia get 'too loud' during celebrations after thumping Ashes win</strong></a></p>

<p id="1">&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">This might be a small gesture but this is what makes Pat Cummins great. He realised Khawaja had to dip because of the booze and rectifies it. <a href="https://t.co/GNVsPGJhfK">pic.twitter.com/GNVsPGJhfK</a></p>
— Fux League (@buttsey888) <a href="https://twitter.com/buttsey888/status/1482675728470921220?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><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"><strong>'Stuff of dreams': Pat Cummins on leading Australia to 4-0 win against England in Ashes 2021-22</strong></a></p>

<p>After the end of the series, Cummins stated at the post-match presentation, "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."</p>

<p>On the other hand, Captain Root opined on England's shambolic performance and said, "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."</p>


Australia thumped England by 146 runs in the fifth and final Ashes Test of the 2021/22 edition, held Down Under, on Sunday (January 16). After Root & Co. had ensured to have prevented a whitewash, drawing the fourth and penultimate Test in Sydney, the visitors came to the series finale with an aim to sign off with a consolation win.

Australia thumped England by 146 runs in the fifth and final Ashes Test of the 2021/22 edition, held Down Under, on Sunday (January 16). After Root & Co. had ensured to have prevented a whitewash, drawing the fourth and penultimate Test in Sydney, the visitors came to the series finale with an aim to sign off with a consolation win. Opting to bowl first, England dismissed Australia for 303 -- thanks to Travis Head's 101 -- before the Three Lions bundled out for 188. Despite the Aussies managing only 155 in their second essay, Pat Cummins & Co. gave England a stiff 271-run target on Day 3 on Sunday. Root & Co. collapsed and were dismissed for 124 to lose the clash on the third day, in Hobart, by 146 runs. Hence, Australia claimed the series 4-0 and went wild in their celebrations. During the team picture, after the post-match presentation at Bellerive Oval, Hobart, Usman Khawaja (who scored twin centuries in the fourth Test) had to move away from his teammates as they opened the champagne bottles. The Pakistani-born Aussie cricketer's religion prevents him from indulging in such celebrations. To this, Captain Cummins asked the team members to keep the champagne away for a bit to include Khawaja during the photo. Here's the video of Cummins' gesture for Khawaja: ALSO READ | WATCH: Police intervene as Australia get 'too loud' during celebrations after thumping Ashes win This might be a small gesture but this is what makes Pat Cummins great. He realised Khawaja had to dip because of the booze and rectifies it. pic.twitter.com/GNVsPGJhfK — Fux League (@buttsey888) January 16, 2022 × ALSO READ | 'Stuff of dreams': Pat Cummins on leading Australia to 4-0 win against England in Ashes 2021-22 After the end of the series, Cummins stated at the post-match presentation, "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." On the other hand, Captain Root opined on England's shambolic performance and said, "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."

WATCH: Cummins asks Aussie players to stop champagne popping for Khawaja's inclusion in team pic

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