Indian skipper Virat Kohli declared his side's inning at 443/7 with Rohit Sharma remaining&nbsp;unbeaten on 63.&nbsp;Kohli's decision will give Indian bowlers around 25 minutes to make it difficult for the Australia openers.

Rohit Sharma slammed a brilliant half-century to take India's score past 400. Rohit found a perfect ally in young Rishabh pant and the two have built up a partnership of 76 runs before the wicketkeeper-batsman lost his wicket.

Pant got caught while trying to hit a big shot off Mitchell Starc. He departed after making 39 runs.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Australia's Nathan Lyon bowled a beautiful low delivery to end Rohit Sharma and Ajinkya Rahane's 62 run partnership. Ajinkya lost his wicket to the Australian spinner for the ninth time. He departed after making 34 runs.&nbsp;

Earlier, Cheteshwar Pujara's brilliant inning ended after the right-handed batsman lost his wicket to a low ball of Australian pacer Pat Cummins.

The 30-year old was sent back to the pavilion minutes after Indian skipper Virat Kohli was dismissed by Mitchell Starc.

While Pujara departed after making 106 runs, Kohli contributed crucial 82 runs, ending a long 170-run partership between the two.&nbsp;

The wickets of these two have brought Australia back in the game as India didn't lose any since the start of the game on day 2.

India reached 277 for loss of two wickets only at lunch on the second day of the third Test against Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on Thursday.

Pujara, who resumed the inning on Day 2 at 68, went on to hit his17th Test century to put India in a dominating position against hosts Australia.&nbsp;

Skipper Kohli too reached his half-century early today and was going strong along with Pujara as the two resumed India's bid to build on. 
&nbsp; 
The Australian bowlers failed to create any chance to take a wicket in the first session but are expected to make a strong comeback in the next session.&nbsp;

On Day 1, India held the whip-hand at 215 for two at the close of a grinding opening day where Pujara raised his 21st Test half-century.

Electing to bat, Indian opener Mayank Agarwal enjoyed a stellar entry to Test cricket, scoring 76 to record the highest ever innings by an India debutant on Australian soil before being dismissed on the last ball before tea. 
&nbsp; 
With the four-match series poised at 1-1, India's slow but disciplined accumulation left them well-placed to build a big total.&nbsp;

Indian skipper Virat Kohli declared his side's inning at 443/7 with Rohit Sharma remaining unbeaten on 63. Kohli's decision will give Indian bowlers around 25 minutes to make it difficult for the Australia openers.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli declared his side's inning at 443/7 with Rohit Sharma remaining unbeaten on 63. Kohli's decision will give Indian bowlers around 25 minutes to make it difficult for the Australia openers. Rohit Sharma slammed a brilliant half-century to take India's score past 400. Rohit found a perfect ally in young Rishabh pant and the two have built up a partnership of 76 runs before the wicketkeeper-batsman lost his wicket. Pant got caught while trying to hit a big shot off Mitchell Starc. He departed after making 39 runs. Australia's Nathan Lyon bowled a beautiful low delivery to end Rohit Sharma and Ajinkya Rahane's 62 run partnership. Ajinkya lost his wicket to the Australian spinner for the ninth time. He departed after making 34 runs. Earlier, Cheteshwar Pujara's brilliant inning ended after the right-handed batsman lost his wicket to a low ball of Australian pacer Pat Cummins. The 30-year old was sent back to the pavilion minutes after Indian skipper Virat Kohli was dismissed by Mitchell Starc. While Pujara departed after making 106 runs, Kohli contributed crucial 82 runs, ending a long 170-run partership between the two. The wickets of these two have brought Australia back in the game as India didn't lose any since the start of the game on day 2. India reached 277 for loss of two wickets only at lunch on the second day of the third Test against Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on Thursday. Pujara, who resumed the inning on Day 2 at 68, went on to hit his17th Test century to put India in a dominating position against hosts Australia. Skipper Kohli too reached his half-century early today and was going strong along with Pujara as the two resumed India's bid to build on. The Australian bowlers failed to create any chance to take a wicket in the first session but are expected to make a strong comeback in the next session. On Day 1, India held the whip-hand at 215 for two at the close of a grinding opening day where Pujara raised his 21st Test half-century. Electing to bat, Indian opener Mayank Agarwal enjoyed a stellar entry to Test cricket, scoring 76 to record the highest ever innings by an India debutant on Australian soil before being dismissed on the last ball before tea. With the four-match series poised at 1-1, India's slow but disciplined accumulation left them well-placed to build a big total.

IND vs AUS, 3rd Test: Australia eight for no loss at stumps on Day 2

India reached 277 for loss of two wickets at lunch on the second day of the third Test against Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on Thursday.

Cheteshwar Pujara was batting on 103 and captain Virat Kohli was giving him company on 69 at the break as India scored 62 runs from 28 overs in the morning session.

Pujara, who resumed the inning on Day 2 at 68, went on to hit his17th Test century to put India in a dominating position against hosts Australia.&nbsp;

Skipper Kohli too reached his half-century early today and is going strong along with Pujara as the two resumed India's bid to build on. 
&nbsp; 
The Australian bowlers failed to create any chance to take a wicket in the first session but are expected to make a strong comeback in the next session.&nbsp;

On Day 1, India held the whip-hand at 215 for two at the close of a grinding opening day where Pujara raised his 21st Test half-century.

Electing to bat, Indian opener Mayank Agarwal enjoyed a stellar entry to Test cricket, scoring 76 to record the highest ever innings by an India debutant on Australian soil before being dismissed on the last ball before tea. 
&nbsp; 
With the four-match series poised at 1-1, India's slow but disciplined accumulation left them well-placed to build a big total.&nbsp;

India reached 277 for loss of two wickets at lunch on the second day of the third Test against Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on Thursday. Cheteshwar Pujara was batting on 103 and captain Virat Kohli was giving him company on 69 at the break as India scored 62 runs from 28 overs in the morning session.

India reached 277 for loss of two wickets at lunch on the second day of the third Test against Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on Thursday. Cheteshwar Pujara was batting on 103 and captain Virat Kohli was giving him company on 69 at the break as India scored 62 runs from 28 overs in the morning session. Pujara, who resumed the inning on Day 2 at 68, went on to hit his17th Test century to put India in a dominating position against hosts Australia. Skipper Kohli too reached his half-century early today and is going strong along with Pujara as the two resumed India's bid to build on. The Australian bowlers failed to create any chance to take a wicket in the first session but are expected to make a strong comeback in the next session. On Day 1, India held the whip-hand at 215 for two at the close of a grinding opening day where Pujara raised his 21st Test half-century. Electing to bat, Indian opener Mayank Agarwal enjoyed a stellar entry to Test cricket, scoring 76 to record the highest ever innings by an India debutant on Australian soil before being dismissed on the last ball before tea. With the four-match series poised at 1-1, India's slow but disciplined accumulation left them well-placed to build a big total.

IND vs AUS, 3rd Test: Kohli and Pujara return to crease, India are 277/2 after 117 overs

Cheteshwar Pujara reached his 17th Test century on Thursday to put India in a dominating position&nbsp;on the second day of the third test match against Australia.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli too reached his half-century and is going strong along with Pujara as the two resumed India's bid to build on. After 115 overs, India's score stands at 271 for the loss of two wickets.&nbsp;&nbsp;

India held the whip-hand at 215 for two at the close of a grinding opening day.&nbsp;

Pujara raised his 21st test half-century to be 68 not out at stumps, while Kohli ended the day on 47.

Opener Mayank Agarwal enjoyed a stellar entry to test cricket, scoring 76 to record the highest ever innings by an India debutant on Australian soil before being dismissed on the last ball before tea. 
&nbsp; 
Kohli won the toss and elected to bat first. With the four-match series poised at 1-1, India's slow but disciplined accumulation left them well-placed to build a big total.&nbsp;

Cheteshwar Pujara reached his 17th Test century on Thursday to put India in a dominating position on the second day of the third test match against Australia. Indian skipper Virat Kohli too reached his half-century and is going strong along with Pujara as the two resumed India's bid to build on.

Cheteshwar Pujara reached his 17th Test century on Thursday to put India in a dominating position on the second day of the third test match against Australia. Indian skipper Virat Kohli too reached his half-century and is going strong along with Pujara as the two resumed India's bid to build on. After 115 overs, India's score stands at 271 for the loss of two wickets. India held the whip-hand at 215 for two at the close of a grinding opening day. Pujara raised his 21st test half-century to be 68 not out at stumps, while Kohli ended the day on 47. Opener Mayank Agarwal enjoyed a stellar entry to test cricket, scoring 76 to record the highest ever innings by an India debutant on Australian soil before being dismissed on the last ball before tea. Kohli won the toss and elected to bat first. With the four-match series poised at 1-1, India's slow but disciplined accumulation left them well-placed to build a big total.

IND vs AUS, 3rd Test: Pujara hits 17th Test hundred; India are 271/2 after 115 overs

Virat Kohli, the number one batsman, smashed 11 international centuries, including six in one-dayers in 2018, to underline why he is considered one of the best batsman of his era.&nbsp;

Top-ranked in both the Test and one-day internationals, Kohli in 2018 was especially dominating in the 50-over format with a 133-plus average

India’s fifth and final ODI against Windies was Kohli's LAST 50-over game of the year. He was at the crease after making unbeaten 33 when the game was won.&nbsp;

Apart from it, Kohli has produced some exceptional feats in 2018.&nbsp;

In ODIs, Kohli has scored 1202 runs at an average of 133.55 in 14 innings this year. In Tests, so far, Kohli has scored 1240 runs in 12 games at an average of 56.36.

In the 50-over format, only two more batsmen – Rohit Sharma (1030 in 19 innings) and Jonny Bairstow (1025 in 22 innings) - have crossed 1000 runs in 2018.

No one has scored more hundreds than Kohli’s six. Rohit with five is at number two on the list. &nbsp;

Kohli is also amongst the five batsmen who have faced the least proportion of dot balls in ODI cricket in 2018. His dot-ball percentage of 41.81% is the fourth-lowest after Kevin O’Brien (34.96%), Thisara Perera (36.49%) and Ross Taylor (38.81%).&nbsp;

Kohli was the leading run-scorer with the highest average in South Africa and against West Indies at home. Only Joe Root scored more runs than him in the ODI series in England.

&nbsp;Kohli also notched up his 38th century and became the first Indian to score three consecutive centuries (against Windies) in One-day Internationals (ODI). &nbsp;Other than him, only three other batsmen have scored three consecutive hundreds in a bilateral series - Pakistan's Zaheer Abbas (against India), Quinton de Kock of South Africa (against India) and Babar Azam of Pakistan (against the West Indies).

&nbsp;He also surpassed batting legend Sachin Tendulkar to become the fastest player to reach 10,000 ODI runs.

&nbsp;This year, Kohli also became the fastest to reach 1000-run milestone in a calendar year after he hit an unbeaten 157 against West Indies at Vizag on October 24. He achieved the feat in 11 innings. He broke the record (15 innings) held jointly by him and Hashim Amla.

With such numbers, one thing is sure that Kohli has played a dominant inning this year and promises to play more such in coming days, keeping in mind the 2019 World Cup. &nbsp;

Virat Kohli, the number one batsman, smashed 11 international centuries, including six in one-dayers in 2018, to underline why he is considered one of the best batsman of his era.

Virat Kohli, the number one batsman, smashed 11 international centuries, including six in one-dayers in 2018, to underline why he is considered one of the best batsman of his era. Top-ranked in both the Test and one-day internationals, Kohli in 2018 was especially dominating in the 50-over format with a 133-plus average India’s fifth and final ODI against Windies was Kohli's LAST 50-over game of the year. He was at the crease after making unbeaten 33 when the game was won. Apart from it, Kohli has produced some exceptional feats in 2018. In ODIs, Kohli has scored 1202 runs at an average of 133.55 in 14 innings this year. In Tests, so far, Kohli has scored 1240 runs in 12 games at an average of 56.36. In the 50-over format, only two more batsmen – Rohit Sharma (1030 in 19 innings) and Jonny Bairstow (1025 in 22 innings) - have crossed 1000 runs in 2018. No one has scored more hundreds than Kohli’s six. Rohit with five is at number two on the list. Kohli is also amongst the five batsmen who have faced the least proportion of dot balls in ODI cricket in 2018. His dot-ball percentage of 41.81% is the fourth-lowest after Kevin O’Brien (34.96%), Thisara Perera (36.49%) and Ross Taylor (38.81%). Kohli was the leading run-scorer with the highest average in South Africa and against West Indies at home. Only Joe Root scored more runs than him in the ODI series in England. Kohli also notched up his 38th century and became the first Indian to score three consecutive centuries (against Windies) in One-day Internationals (ODI). Other than him, only three other batsmen have scored three consecutive hundreds in a bilateral series - Pakistan's Zaheer Abbas (against India), Quinton de Kock of South Africa (against India) and Babar Azam of Pakistan (against the West Indies). He also surpassed batting legend Sachin Tendulkar to become the fastest player to reach 10,000 ODI runs. This year, Kohli also became the fastest to reach 1000-run milestone in a calendar year after he hit an unbeaten 157 against West Indies at Vizag on October 24. He achieved the feat in 11 innings. He broke the record (15 innings) held jointly by him and Hashim Amla. With such numbers, one thing is sure that Kohli has played a dominant inning this year and promises to play more such in coming days, keeping in mind the 2019 World Cup.

Virat Kohli's reign of dominance over the world cricket in 2018

Indian skipper Virat Kohli on Thursday went past former captain Rahul Dravid’s long-standing record during his innings of 82 in the first innings of the third Test against Australia in Melbourne.&nbsp;

With the help of his latest half-century, Kohli surpassed Dravid to become highest-scoring Indian Test batsman on overseas soil in a calendar year.

Earlier, Dravid held the record for scoring 1137 runs in overseas Tests in 2002. Kohli now has 1138 runs to his name.

1138: Virat Kohli (2018)

1137: Rahul Dravid (2002)

1065: Mohinder Amarnath (1983)

Kohli missed out on a ton on the second day after he was dismissed by Mitchell Starc. Kohli tried to hit it for a six but was caught out in the deep by Aaron Finch.

Meanwhile, Kohli declared his side's inning for mammoth 443 runs to make the hosts bat for the remaining six overs of Day 2. Australia scored just eight runs in the last six overs they played today.&nbsp;

Openers Marcus Harris (5) and Aaron Finch (3) were at the crease at close of play.&nbsp;

Indian skipper Virat Kohli on Thursday went past former captain Rahul Dravid’s long-standing record during his innings of 82 in the first innings of the third Test against Australia in Melbourne.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli on Thursday went past former captain Rahul Dravid’s long-standing record during his innings of 82 in the first innings of the third Test against Australia in Melbourne. With the help of his latest half-century, Kohli surpassed Dravid to become highest-scoring Indian Test batsman on overseas soil in a calendar year. Earlier, Dravid held the record for scoring 1137 runs in overseas Tests in 2002. Kohli now has 1138 runs to his name. 1138: Virat Kohli (2018) 1137: Rahul Dravid (2002) 1065: Mohinder Amarnath (1983) Kohli missed out on a ton on the second day after he was dismissed by Mitchell Starc. Kohli tried to hit it for a six but was caught out in the deep by Aaron Finch. Meanwhile, Kohli declared his side's inning for mammoth 443 runs to make the hosts bat for the remaining six overs of Day 2. Australia scored just eight runs in the last six overs they played today. Openers Marcus Harris (5) and Aaron Finch (3) were at the crease at close of play.

IND vs AUS: Virat Kohli breaks Rahul Dravid's 16-year old record

In reply to India's mammoth 443, Australia were eight for no loss at stumps after Virat Kohli declared his side's inning to make the hosts bat for the remaining six overs of Day 2 of the third Test match at Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).

Openers Marcus Harris (5) and Aaron Finch (3) were at the crease at close of play.

India's massive total was powered by a classic century from Cheteshwar Pujara (106) and half-centuries from skipper Virat Kohli (82), debutant opener Mayank Agarwal (76) and Rohit Sharma (63 not out).

Pujara's brilliant inning ended after the right-handed batsman lost his wicket to a low ball of Australian pacer Pat Cummins. The 30-year old was sent back to the pavilion minutes after Indian skipper Virat Kohli was dismissed by Mitchell Starc.

India reached 277 for loss of two wickets at lunch on the second day. Pujara, who resumed the inning on Day 2 at 68, went on to hit his 17th Test century to put India in a dominating position while skipper Kohli reached his half-century early today.

Vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane made 34 while and wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant contributed 39 to add to Australia's woes.&nbsp;

For the hosts, pacer Pat Cummins emerged the hero returning with figures of 3/72 while Mitchell Starc contributed with two wickets. Josh Hazlewood and lone spinner Nathan Lyon worked hard for their one wicket apiece.

In reply to India's mammoth 443, Australia were eight for no loss at stumps after Virat Kohli declared his side's inning to make the hosts bat for the remaining six overs of Day 2 of the third Test match at Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).

In reply to India's mammoth 443, Australia were eight for no loss at stumps after Virat Kohli declared his side's inning to make the hosts bat for the remaining six overs of Day 2 of the third Test match at Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Openers Marcus Harris (5) and Aaron Finch (3) were at the crease at close of play. India's massive total was powered by a classic century from Cheteshwar Pujara (106) and half-centuries from skipper Virat Kohli (82), debutant opener Mayank Agarwal (76) and Rohit Sharma (63 not out). Pujara's brilliant inning ended after the right-handed batsman lost his wicket to a low ball of Australian pacer Pat Cummins. The 30-year old was sent back to the pavilion minutes after Indian skipper Virat Kohli was dismissed by Mitchell Starc. India reached 277 for loss of two wickets at lunch on the second day. Pujara, who resumed the inning on Day 2 at 68, went on to hit his 17th Test century to put India in a dominating position while skipper Kohli reached his half-century early today. Vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane made 34 while and wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant contributed 39 to add to Australia's woes. For the hosts, pacer Pat Cummins emerged the hero returning with figures of 3/72 while Mitchell Starc contributed with two wickets. Josh Hazlewood and lone spinner Nathan Lyon worked hard for their one wicket apiece.

3rd Test: Australia 8 for no loss at stumps on day 2, India declare at 443/7

Mayank Agarwal made an early mark in Test cricket as he notched up 76 runs on debut against Australia on day one of the ongoing the Boxing Day Test on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Indian skipper Virat Kohli and Cheteshwar Pujara established 92-run stand to take India's scorecard to 215 at the loss of two wickets at stumps.&nbsp;

While Pujara slammed his 21st Test half-century, Kohli is three runs short to reach the 50-digit mark. The two will resume the game on Day 2.

Pujara, who will resume the game at 68 tomorrow, played a patient inning to keep the team's momentum going after India lost debutant Mayank Agarwal, who scored crucial 76 runs.&nbsp;

Amid the opening combination chaos, Mayank's 161-ball inning provided India with a steady start on day one.&nbsp;

It was Australian pacer Pat Cummins who dismissed both the openers &nbsp;- Mayank and Hanuman Vihari. Spinner Nathan Lyon was the costliest bowler of the day as he gave away 59 runs in his 21 overs. 
&nbsp; 
Vihari's wicket was the first blood which Australian drew in the initial hours of the Boxing Day Test. 
&nbsp;&nbsp; 
Mayank, who found a perfect partner in Chesteshwar Pujara, was composed throughout his inning and hit some shots which highlight talent the young batsman possess.&nbsp; 
To reach his maiden fifty, the opener came down the track and drilled it back past the non-striker for a four.

Earlier, Virat Kohli won the toss and opted to bat in the third Test against Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne on Wednesday.

Earlier, Virat Kohli had won the toss and opted to bat first. The hosts defeated India in the second Test to level the series 1-1. 
&nbsp;

Mayank Agarwal made an early mark in Test cricket as he notched up 76 runs on debut against Australia on day one of the ongoing the Boxing Day Test on Wednesday.

Mayank Agarwal made an early mark in Test cricket as he notched up 76 runs on debut against Australia on day one of the ongoing the Boxing Day Test on Wednesday. Meanwhile, Indian skipper Virat Kohli and Cheteshwar Pujara established 92-run stand to take India's scorecard to 215 at the loss of two wickets at stumps. While Pujara slammed his 21st Test half-century, Kohli is three runs short to reach the 50-digit mark. The two will resume the game on Day 2. Pujara, who will resume the game at 68 tomorrow, played a patient inning to keep the team's momentum going after India lost debutant Mayank Agarwal, who scored crucial 76 runs. Amid the opening combination chaos, Mayank's 161-ball inning provided India with a steady start on day one. It was Australian pacer Pat Cummins who dismissed both the openers - Mayank and Hanuman Vihari. Spinner Nathan Lyon was the costliest bowler of the day as he gave away 59 runs in his 21 overs. Vihari's wicket was the first blood which Australian drew in the initial hours of the Boxing Day Test. Mayank, who found a perfect partner in Chesteshwar Pujara, was composed throughout his inning and hit some shots which highlight talent the young batsman possess. To reach his maiden fifty, the opener came down the track and drilled it back past the non-striker for a four. Earlier, Virat Kohli won the toss and opted to bat in the third Test against Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne on Wednesday. Earlier, Virat Kohli had won the toss and opted to bat first. The hosts defeated India in the second Test to level the series 1-1.

IND vs AUS, 3rd Test: Mayank Agarwal shines on debut, India are 215/2 at stumps on Day 1

Cheteshwar Pujara and Virat Kohli combined to frustrate Australia for an entire session as India held the whip-hand at 215 for two at the close of a grinding opening day of the third test on Wednesday.

Pujara raised his 21st test half-century to be 68 not out at stumps, with Kohli on 47 as Australia's bowlers endured a day of toil on a placid Melbourne Cricket Ground wicket after the India captain won the toss and elected to bat.

Opener Mayank Agarwal enjoyed a stellar entry to test cricket, scoring 76 to record the highest ever innings by an India debutant on Australian soil before being dismissed on the last ball before tea.

The Karnataka batsman eclipsed the 51 scored by Dattu Phadkar against Don Bradman's team in Sydney in 1947, raising his hand for a permanent role in the top order after replacing the out-of-form Murali Vijay.

"I wouldn't complain about the pitch, it was good to bat on," the 27-year-old told reporters.

"It did a little bit early on but then it was slow ... I am happy but obviously I would have liked more (runs)."

The Boxing Day crowd of 73,516 was a record attendance for a match featuring India in Australia and travelling fans from the subcontinent roared their applause as Kohli and Pujara combined for a 92-run stand and strode off unbeaten at stumps.

A day after Christmas festivities, home supporters were left flat, however, and the Australian bowlers frustrated by the drop-in pitch that offered very little movement in an echo of the wicket that produced a dull draw against England last year.

With the four-match series poised at 1-1, India's slow but disciplined accumulation left them well-placed to build a big total and tire Australia's bowlers in baking heat forecast for day two.

"We’ve been able to restrict them quite well with runs, we didn’t get the wickets we probably would have liked," said Australia batsman Travis Head.

"We’ve got to make sure we bowl the same way we did and things can change, I don’t think we’re far away."

Only Pat Cummins was rewarded for Australia, the paceman claiming the wicket of new opener Hanuma Vihari and ending Agarwal's 161-ball knock by having him glove a catch down the leg side.

Vihari, promoted to replace the out-of-sorts Lokesh Rahul, had a less successful debut as an opener, and was snared for eight off 66 balls by a rising delivery that pinged off his gloves before being caught by slips fielder Aaron Finch.

That was the sole highlight until the brink of tea for Tim Paine's side, with Agarwal and Pujara holding firm in an 83-run stand.

With the pitch doing little for the seamers, spinner Nathan Lyon was introduced in the eighth over of the morning but was also unable to conjure a breakthrough throughout.

Agarwal smashed two fours past the bowler after lunch, the second a glorious straight drive to raise his fifty off 95 balls.

He slog-swept Lyon for six after the drinks break before eventually falling to Cummins at 123 for two.

Kohli joined Pujara in the middle and feasted on the ageing ball, punching the ball to the fence with a trio of exquisite, wristy on-drives among his six fours.

Desperate for a wicket, Australia threw away a review for lbw when Lyon rapped Kohli's pads when the captain was on 32.

After the second new ball was taken, a more realistic chance went begging when Kohli, on 47, nicked a Mitchell Starc delivery only for wicketkeeper Paine to grass a low, one-handed chance.

Cheteshwar Pujara and Virat Kohli combined to frustrate Australia for an entire session as India held the whip-hand at 215 for two at the close of a grinding opening day of the third test on Wednesday.

Cheteshwar Pujara and Virat Kohli combined to frustrate Australia for an entire session as India held the whip-hand at 215 for two at the close of a grinding opening day of the third test on Wednesday. Pujara raised his 21st test half-century to be 68 not out at stumps, with Kohli on 47 as Australia's bowlers endured a day of toil on a placid Melbourne Cricket Ground wicket after the India captain won the toss and elected to bat. Opener Mayank Agarwal enjoyed a stellar entry to test cricket, scoring 76 to record the highest ever innings by an India debutant on Australian soil before being dismissed on the last ball before tea. The Karnataka batsman eclipsed the 51 scored by Dattu Phadkar against Don Bradman's team in Sydney in 1947, raising his hand for a permanent role in the top order after replacing the out-of-form Murali Vijay. "I wouldn't complain about the pitch, it was good to bat on," the 27-year-old told reporters. "It did a little bit early on but then it was slow ... I am happy but obviously I would have liked more (runs)." The Boxing Day crowd of 73,516 was a record attendance for a match featuring India in Australia and travelling fans from the subcontinent roared their applause as Kohli and Pujara combined for a 92-run stand and strode off unbeaten at stumps. A day after Christmas festivities, home supporters were left flat, however, and the Australian bowlers frustrated by the drop-in pitch that offered very little movement in an echo of the wicket that produced a dull draw against England last year. With the four-match series poised at 1-1, India's slow but disciplined accumulation left them well-placed to build a big total and tire Australia's bowlers in baking heat forecast for day two. "We’ve been able to restrict them quite well with runs, we didn’t get the wickets we probably would have liked," said Australia batsman Travis Head. "We’ve got to make sure we bowl the same way we did and things can change, I don’t think we’re far away." Only Pat Cummins was rewarded for Australia, the paceman claiming the wicket of new opener Hanuma Vihari and ending Agarwal's 161-ball knock by having him glove a catch down the leg side. Vihari, promoted to replace the out-of-sorts Lokesh Rahul, had a less successful debut as an opener, and was snared for eight off 66 balls by a rising delivery that pinged off his gloves before being caught by slips fielder Aaron Finch. That was the sole highlight until the brink of tea for Tim Paine's side, with Agarwal and Pujara holding firm in an 83-run stand. With the pitch doing little for the seamers, spinner Nathan Lyon was introduced in the eighth over of the morning but was also unable to conjure a breakthrough throughout. Agarwal smashed two fours past the bowler after lunch, the second a glorious straight drive to raise his fifty off 95 balls. He slog-swept Lyon for six after the drinks break before eventually falling to Cummins at 123 for two. Kohli joined Pujara in the middle and feasted on the ageing ball, punching the ball to the fence with a trio of exquisite, wristy on-drives among his six fours. Desperate for a wicket, Australia threw away a review for lbw when Lyon rapped Kohli's pads when the captain was on 32. After the second new ball was taken, a more realistic chance went begging when Kohli, on 47, nicked a Mitchell Starc delivery only for wicketkeeper Paine to grass a low, one-handed chance.

'Wouldn't complain about the pitch, it was good to bat on', says Mayank Agarwal after his maiden Test half-century

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/mayank-agarwal-hanuma-vihari-to-open-as-vijay-rahul-dropped-for-boxing-day-test-186298">Boxing Day Test </a>played between December 26 and December 30 is one of the biggest year-end cricketing carnivals played at the historic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) against the home team Australia.&nbsp;

As its history date back to 1950, the first day after Christmas is one of the best traditions in Australia and the crowd attends this encounter in huge numbers.&nbsp;

Once again, on Wednesday, the Australian side is ready to host India, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohlis-reign-of-dominance-over-the-world-cricket-in-2018-186446">led by Virat Kohli</a>, in the third Test of the four-match series.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

But before the nail-biting clash, let's take a look at the previous Australian performances on their most important day.&nbsp;

From 1950 to 2017, a total of 42 Boxing Day Tests have been played, out of which 24 have been won by hosts Australia.

The year 1950, when the tradition of playing an international game on the Boxing Day actually began, nearly 60,486 people attended the game against England, on the first weekday following Christmas.

The fourth day of the game between Australia and England (during the 1950-51 Ashes series) was played which the hosts won by 28 runs.

For the next following years, the Boxing Day Test was not a regular fixture in the Australian cricket summer. It was in 1980, the Melbourne Cricket Club and the Australian team secured rights to begin a Test match on December 26 annually.&nbsp;

In 1989, instead of a Test match, an ODI was played on the Boxing Day against Sri Lanka.&nbsp;

The game became a regular fixture as it was a massive crowd puller. In 1975, which highlighted the popularity of the day and the game, 85,661 people attended the game against the West Indies.&nbsp;

It took another 31 years to better this record when 89,155 people were present at the MCG in 2006 for the Test match against England.

But it was in 2013 the game recorded the highest ever attendance on the Boxing Day. A total of 91,112 people audited this match against England, which Australia won by eight wickets.&nbsp;

Moreover, since 2000, the crowd presence on this day did not go down below 50,000. The lowest gathering was registered in 1993 against South Africa which ended in a draw.&nbsp;

India too experienced the taste of what it means to take on the Aussie spirit on Boxing Day at the Melbourne cricket ground(MCG) on December 26th, 2003 as Sourav's tigers leading 1-0 in the series sought to slay the home team.

Captain Sourav Ganguly won the toss and expectedly chose to bat as the capacity crowd at Melbourne sat down to witness another Indian batting extravaganza. The Indian summer in Australia truly arrived as Sehwag came out to bat with Akash Chopra.

Sehwag smashed the Aussie attack comprising of Brett Lee, Bracken, Williams and MacGill to all corners of the Melbourne stadium piling up 195 in just 233 balls. The Indian opener scored a massive 25 boundaries which included five sixes. The Boxing Day truly belonged to Sehwag and India as the Aussies applauded the new India.&nbsp;

In end, Sehwag holed out to Bracken on the boundary attempting another six as he eyed a double century falling short by five runs to be dismissed by Katich for 195, the highest score by an Indian at the MCG.

India finished the day on top at 329/4 powered by Sehwag's swashbuckling knock. However, the Aussies hit back during their innings as Hayden bludgeoned India scoring 136 and Ponting scored a match-winning double ton(257 with 25 boundaries, like Sehwag) as India crumbled to defeat losing by nine wickets.

The 43rd match between India and Australia will also be a memorable as the hosts will be playing for their pride while the Men in Blue will fight to return to the winning momentum.&nbsp;

The Boxing Day Test played between December 26 and December 30 is one of the biggest year-end cricketing carnivals played at the historic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) against the home team Australia.

The Boxing Day Test played between December 26 and December 30 is one of the biggest year-end cricketing carnivals played at the historic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) against the home team Australia. As its history date back to 1950, the first day after Christmas is one of the best traditions in Australia and the crowd attends this encounter in huge numbers. Once again, on Wednesday, the Australian side is ready to host India, led by Virat Kohli, in the third Test of the four-match series. But before the nail-biting clash, let's take a look at the previous Australian performances on their most important day. From 1950 to 2017, a total of 42 Boxing Day Tests have been played, out of which 24 have been won by hosts Australia. The year 1950, when the tradition of playing an international game on the Boxing Day actually began, nearly 60,486 people attended the game against England, on the first weekday following Christmas. The fourth day of the game between Australia and England (during the 1950-51 Ashes series) was played which the hosts won by 28 runs. For the next following years, the Boxing Day Test was not a regular fixture in the Australian cricket summer. It was in 1980, the Melbourne Cricket Club and the Australian team secured rights to begin a Test match on December 26 annually. In 1989, instead of a Test match, an ODI was played on the Boxing Day against Sri Lanka. The game became a regular fixture as it was a massive crowd puller. In 1975, which highlighted the popularity of the day and the game, 85,661 people attended the game against the West Indies. It took another 31 years to better this record when 89,155 people were present at the MCG in 2006 for the Test match against England. But it was in 2013 the game recorded the highest ever attendance on the Boxing Day. A total of 91,112 people audited this match against England, which Australia won by eight wickets. Moreover, since 2000, the crowd presence on this day did not go down below 50,000. The lowest gathering was registered in 1993 against South Africa which ended in a draw. India too experienced the taste of what it means to take on the Aussie spirit on Boxing Day at the Melbourne cricket ground(MCG) on December 26th, 2003 as Sourav's tigers leading 1-0 in the series sought to slay the home team. Captain Sourav Ganguly won the toss and expectedly chose to bat as the capacity crowd at Melbourne sat down to witness another Indian batting extravaganza. The Indian summer in Australia truly arrived as Sehwag came out to bat with Akash Chopra. Sehwag smashed the Aussie attack comprising of Brett Lee, Bracken, Williams and MacGill to all corners of the Melbourne stadium piling up 195 in just 233 balls. The Indian opener scored a massive 25 boundaries which included five sixes. The Boxing Day truly belonged to Sehwag and India as the Aussies applauded the new India. In end, Sehwag holed out to Bracken on the boundary attempting another six as he eyed a double century falling short by five runs to be dismissed by Katich for 195, the highest score by an Indian at the MCG. India finished the day on top at 329/4 powered by Sehwag's swashbuckling knock. However, the Aussies hit back during their innings as Hayden bludgeoned India scoring 136 and Ponting scored a match-winning double ton(257 with 25 boundaries, like Sehwag) as India crumbled to defeat losing by nine wickets. The 43rd match between India and Australia will also be a memorable as the hosts will be playing for their pride while the Men in Blue will fight to return to the winning momentum.

3rd Test: Australia's almost 'invincible' record awaits India on Boxing Day

Their patchy performance has stuck out like a sore thumb during the first two Tests and India skipper Virat Kohli urged his batsmen to complement the superb effort of his bowling unit in the upcoming Boxing Day Test against Australia starting Wednesday.

While Kohli gave a batting masterclass on a challenging track in Perth, Cheteshwar Pujara had played a decisive role in team's win Adelaide but other batsmen have not contributed much unlike bowlers, who have picked 40 wickets in four innings.&nbsp;

"It is very important for batsmen to stand up, because as everyone can see, our bowling has been performing really well. Otherwise, the bowlers won't be able to do anything with the totals that we have been compiling," skipper Kohli said on the eve of the third Test.

"If we are batting second, we will try to take the lead or get as close to the opposition total as possible. If you equal a big score, then it becomes a second-innings' match and if you take a good first-innings lead, then you can capitalize on that.&nbsp;

"The batsmen must step up collectively. I won't say individually whether someone needs to do that or not, but as a batting unit, we have to definitely put up a better performance," Kohli sent out a loud and clear message for his batting unit.

The Indian captain made it clear that neither his team's Adelaide victory nor the Perth defeat will have any bearing when Melbourne Test starts.

"As a team, I don't think whether you are 2-0 up or 2-0 down or 1-1, what's happened in the past has no significance at all to what's going to happen in the next two Tests or what's going to happen in the next Test which is quite immediate.&nbsp;

"The key is to stay in the moment, stay in the present, understand and remember why you won the first Test, which was because of us being in the present moment," the skipper reiterated what he has often stressed.

Nathan Lyon with 16 wickets in two Tests have been India's chief tormentor so far and Kohli praised the off-spinner for his effort. &nbsp;

"Lyon is a very good bowler. He consistently bowls in good areas. So we have to have our plans against such a bowler so that we can also explore scoring options because if he is allowed to bowl at one spot for a long time, he becomes even more dangerous.&nbsp;

"These things you need to figure out constantly - who is bowling well in a particular series and what your plans should be against him. He has definitely bowled very well from the opposition."

What makes Lyon special is the fact that he plays most of his Test matches in Australia.

"For a spinner to bowl so well in Australia is a huge thing. We are taking it as a challenge, and we definitely want to improve our play against him. We have put in the effort in practice, it now matters who we execute those on the field.&nbsp;

"As I said, if there is a challenge coming your way, you try and counter it. That's our effort - if we have been dismissed in a particular way, not repeat that mode of dismissal. As cricketers, that is all you can do," he added.

Last time when India played at the MCG, the Test ended in a draw even though Kohli and Rahane had scored hundreds.

"Last time the pitch played a big part in not being able to have a result either ways, for both sides. But seeing the pitch now, it has much more grass than it had last time and I hope that it is a lively pitch.&nbsp;

"I hope it does as much as it did in the first two games because as a side, you always know that you are in for a result that way. The surface, what I saw yesterday, looked pretty dry underneath. There is a good coverage of grass, which should keep the surface intact," Kohli seemed hopeful.

For Kohli, a pitch should have enough in it to keep the bowlers interested on all five days of a Test match.

"I think it should have enough for the bowlers to stay interested on all days of the Test match and hopefully, it's a much more lively wicket than the last time we played here," he opined.

Kohli will be playing his second Boxing Day Test Down Under and seemed pretty excited about it.

"It's amazing (as an occasion). Obviously, day one is the most anticipated day and we are expecting a lot of people to come in, maybe 80,000-plus. So I have experienced that twice before.&nbsp;

"It's definitely a magical day to step on the field, the national anthems for both teams, and you can sense the energy in the stadium. For me, that is my most favourite personal moment of the Boxing Day, when the anthems are sung, you are standing on the field and there are so many people around you. Definitely, it is one of the most iconic Test matches and we are very happy to be a part of that," he added.&nbsp;

Their patchy performance has stuck out like a sore thumb during the first two Tests and India skipper Virat Kohli urged his batsmen to complement the superb effort of his bowling unit in the upcoming Boxing Day Test against Australia starting Wednesday.

Their patchy performance has stuck out like a sore thumb during the first two Tests and India skipper Virat Kohli urged his batsmen to complement the superb effort of his bowling unit in the upcoming Boxing Day Test against Australia starting Wednesday. While Kohli gave a batting masterclass on a challenging track in Perth, Cheteshwar Pujara had played a decisive role in team's win Adelaide but other batsmen have not contributed much unlike bowlers, who have picked 40 wickets in four innings. "It is very important for batsmen to stand up, because as everyone can see, our bowling has been performing really well. Otherwise, the bowlers won't be able to do anything with the totals that we have been compiling," skipper Kohli said on the eve of the third Test. "If we are batting second, we will try to take the lead or get as close to the opposition total as possible. If you equal a big score, then it becomes a second-innings' match and if you take a good first-innings lead, then you can capitalize on that. "The batsmen must step up collectively. I won't say individually whether someone needs to do that or not, but as a batting unit, we have to definitely put up a better performance," Kohli sent out a loud and clear message for his batting unit. The Indian captain made it clear that neither his team's Adelaide victory nor the Perth defeat will have any bearing when Melbourne Test starts. "As a team, I don't think whether you are 2-0 up or 2-0 down or 1-1, what's happened in the past has no significance at all to what's going to happen in the next two Tests or what's going to happen in the next Test which is quite immediate. "The key is to stay in the moment, stay in the present, understand and remember why you won the first Test, which was because of us being in the present moment," the skipper reiterated what he has often stressed. Nathan Lyon with 16 wickets in two Tests have been India's chief tormentor so far and Kohli praised the off-spinner for his effort. "Lyon is a very good bowler. He consistently bowls in good areas. So we have to have our plans against such a bowler so that we can also explore scoring options because if he is allowed to bowl at one spot for a long time, he becomes even more dangerous. "These things you need to figure out constantly - who is bowling well in a particular series and what your plans should be against him. He has definitely bowled very well from the opposition." What makes Lyon special is the fact that he plays most of his Test matches in Australia. "For a spinner to bowl so well in Australia is a huge thing. We are taking it as a challenge, and we definitely want to improve our play against him. We have put in the effort in practice, it now matters who we execute those on the field. "As I said, if there is a challenge coming your way, you try and counter it. That's our effort - if we have been dismissed in a particular way, not repeat that mode of dismissal. As cricketers, that is all you can do," he added. Last time when India played at the MCG, the Test ended in a draw even though Kohli and Rahane had scored hundreds. "Last time the pitch played a big part in not being able to have a result either ways, for both sides. But seeing the pitch now, it has much more grass than it had last time and I hope that it is a lively pitch. "I hope it does as much as it did in the first two games because as a side, you always know that you are in for a result that way. The surface, what I saw yesterday, looked pretty dry underneath. There is a good coverage of grass, which should keep the surface intact," Kohli seemed hopeful. For Kohli, a pitch should have enough in it to keep the bowlers interested on all five days of a Test match. "I think it should have enough for the bowlers to stay interested on all days of the Test match and hopefully, it's a much more lively wicket than the last time we played here," he opined. Kohli will be playing his second Boxing Day Test Down Under and seemed pretty excited about it. "It's amazing (as an occasion). Obviously, day one is the most anticipated day and we are expecting a lot of people to come in, maybe 80,000-plus. So I have experienced that twice before. "It's definitely a magical day to step on the field, the national anthems for both teams, and you can sense the energy in the stadium. For me, that is my most favourite personal moment of the Boxing Day, when the anthems are sung, you are standing on the field and there are so many people around you. Definitely, it is one of the most iconic Test matches and we are very happy to be a part of that," he added.

Kohli's message to batsmen: Bowlers won't be able to do anything with totals we've been putting up

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-irritated-by-resignation-letter-tells-mattis-to-go-2-months-early-186055">Trump, irritated by resignation letter, tells Mattis to go 2 months early</a>

US President Donald Trump on Sunday said he was replacing Defence Secretary Jim Mattis two months earlier than had been expected, a move officials said was driven by Trump's anger at Mattis' resignation letter and its rebuke of his foreign policy.&nbsp;

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/relishing-battle-with-virat-kohli-says-australia-captain-tim-paine-186063">'Relishing' battle with Virat Kohli, says Australia captain Tim Paine</a>

Australia skipper Tim Paine said Monday he is relishing his sometimes heated battle with animated Indian counterpart Virat Kohli, and promised "intense, hard" cricket in the crunch Boxing Day Test at Melbourne.

The pair had some testy exchanges in the second Test at Perth, which at one point needed the umpire to intervene.

And Kohli offered only a frosty handshake at the end of the game, which Australia won to level the four-Test series 1-1, refusing to meet Paine's eye in a move blasted by some as disrespectful.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/another-tsunami-could-hit-indonesia-experts-warn-186056">Another tsunami could hit Indonesia, warn experts</a>

Another tsunami could strike Indonesia, experts warned on Sunday, a day after more than 200 people were killed by a wave triggered by a volcanic eruption.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/doctor-kills-ex-wife-keeps-her-alive-on-social-media-for-7-months-186064">UP doctor kills ex-wife, keeps her 'alive' on social media for 7 months</a>

A UP doctor and owner of a hospital killed his ex-wife and kept her "alive" on social media for seven months to hoodwink the authorities.&nbsp;

Dr Dharmendra Pratap Singh, with the help of two employees, killed his wife in Pokhara, Nepal in June 2018 by throwing her off a cliff.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/ashutosh-rana-madhur-bhandarkar-back-naseeruddin-shahs-comment-on-bulandshahr-violence-186062">Ashutosh Rana, Madhur Bhandarkar come out in support of Naseeruddin Shah</a>

Bollywood actor Ashutosh Rana and film director Madhur Bhandarkar have come out in support of Naseeruddin Shah over the veteran actor`s recent comment on Bulandshahr violence.

Speaking on the ongoing controversy surrounding Shah`s comment, Rana stated that everyone has a right to share their thoughts. 
&nbsp;

Trump, irritated by resignation letter, tells Mattis to go 2 months early US President Donald Trump on Sunday said he was replacing Defence Secretary Jim Mattis two months earlier than had been expected, a move officials said was driven by Trump's anger at Mattis' resignation letter and its rebuke of his foreign policy.

Trump, irritated by resignation letter, tells Mattis to go 2 months early US President Donald Trump on Sunday said he was replacing Defence Secretary Jim Mattis two months earlier than had been expected, a move officials said was driven by Trump's anger at Mattis' resignation letter and its rebuke of his foreign policy. 'Relishing' battle with Virat Kohli, says Australia captain Tim Paine Australia skipper Tim Paine said Monday he is relishing his sometimes heated battle with animated Indian counterpart Virat Kohli, and promised "intense, hard" cricket in the crunch Boxing Day Test at Melbourne. The pair had some testy exchanges in the second Test at Perth, which at one point needed the umpire to intervene. And Kohli offered only a frosty handshake at the end of the game, which Australia won to level the four-Test series 1-1, refusing to meet Paine's eye in a move blasted by some as disrespectful. Another tsunami could hit Indonesia, warn experts Another tsunami could strike Indonesia, experts warned on Sunday, a day after more than 200 people were killed by a wave triggered by a volcanic eruption. UP doctor kills ex-wife, keeps her 'alive' on social media for 7 months A UP doctor and owner of a hospital killed his ex-wife and kept her "alive" on social media for seven months to hoodwink the authorities. Dr Dharmendra Pratap Singh, with the help of two employees, killed his wife in Pokhara, Nepal in June 2018 by throwing her off a cliff. Ashutosh Rana, Madhur Bhandarkar come out in support of Naseeruddin Shah Bollywood actor Ashutosh Rana and film director Madhur Bhandarkar have come out in support of Naseeruddin Shah over the veteran actor`s recent comment on Bulandshahr violence. Speaking on the ongoing controversy surrounding Shah`s comment, Rana stated that everyone has a right to share their thoughts.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Australia skipper Tim Paine said Monday he is relishing <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/you-cant-like-virat-kohli-as-a-man-paine-caught-saying-to-murali-vijay-on-stump-mic-184815">his sometimes heated battle with animated Indian counterpart Virat </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/you-cant-like-virat-kohli-as-a-man-paine-caught-saying-to-murali-vijay-on-stump-mic-184815">Kohli</a>, and promised "intense, hard" cricket in the crunch Boxing Day Test at Melbourne.

The pair had some testy exchanges in the second Test at Perth, which at one point needed the umpire to intervene.

And Kohli offered only a frosty handshake at the end of the game, which Australia won to level the four-Test series 1-1, refusing to meet Paine's eye in a move blasted by some as disrespectful.

But Paine said he appreciated that Kohli never liked to lose.

"A lot was made of my battle with Virat in the second Test, and for the past few years when I haven't been playing international cricket, he was one guy I loved watching," he said in a column for Melbourne's Herald Sun.

"Now to be out in the middle going head-to-head with him in a Test series is something I'm really relishing."

Paine said he was not annoyed "in the slightest" by Kohli looking straight past him at the handshake.

"Virat is someone who is prepared to wear his heart on his sleeve and like all professional athletes, hates to lose," he said.

"I like the way Virat plays. I don't know him personally but I've always admired -- not only his obvious skill as a player -- but the passion and aggression he plays with. People like to see that and he gets fans through the gates."

Kohli's antics in Perth, where he also failed to acknowledge the crowd's applause after he was controversially given out in the first innings for 123, brought a stunning rebuke from veteran Bollywood star Naseeruddin Shah.

Middle-order puzzle 
He described him as "not only the world's best batsman but also <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/after-mike-hussey-naseeruddin-shah-slams-virat-kohli-by-calling-him-worlds-worst-behaved-player-184868">the world's worst behaved player</a>", with the mass-circulation Hindustan Times saying it articulated what many Indian cricket fans had been thinking.

His behaviour when the Melbourne Test begins on Wednesday will closely watched, but he has the backing of coach Ravi Shastri who on Sunday called Kohli "an absolute gentleman".

Australian coach Justin Langer said Monday his biggest selection headache was whether to persist with middle-order batsman Peter Handscomb or recall all-rounder Mitch Marsh to ease the pressure on pace spearheads Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins.

"In a perfectly balanced side you'll have someone who can bowl some overs so Mitch becomes an attractive commodity on a wicket probably unlike Adelaide and Perth," he said, where the surface offered fast bowlers plenty of opportunities.

On the other hand, Handscomb would be an asset if the visitors opt for two spinners.&nbsp;

India are sweating on the fitness of key spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, who was sidelined with an abdominal strain for the Perth Test.&nbsp;

Left-arm off-spinning all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja is also carrying a niggle but is expected to be fit, as is experienced batsman Rohit Sharma, who also missed the second Test.

India's main concern is the form of openers KL Rahul and Murali Vijay, who have struggled for runs, putting an extra burden on Kohli and number three Cheteshwar Pujara.

Shastri made clear on Sunday more was expected from them in Melbourne.

"It's obvious and that responsibility and accountability has to be taken by the top order," he said.

"They've got the experience, they've got the exposure over these last few years to get out there and deliver."

Australia skipper Tim Paine said Monday he is relishing his sometimes heated battle with animated Indian counterpart Virat Kohli, and promised "intense, hard" cricket in the crunch Boxing Day Test at Melbourne.

Australia skipper Tim Paine said Monday he is relishing his sometimes heated battle with animated Indian counterpart Virat Kohli, and promised "intense, hard" cricket in the crunch Boxing Day Test at Melbourne. The pair had some testy exchanges in the second Test at Perth, which at one point needed the umpire to intervene. And Kohli offered only a frosty handshake at the end of the game, which Australia won to level the four-Test series 1-1, refusing to meet Paine's eye in a move blasted by some as disrespectful. But Paine said he appreciated that Kohli never liked to lose. "A lot was made of my battle with Virat in the second Test, and for the past few years when I haven't been playing international cricket, he was one guy I loved watching," he said in a column for Melbourne's Herald Sun. "Now to be out in the middle going head-to-head with him in a Test series is something I'm really relishing." Paine said he was not annoyed "in the slightest" by Kohli looking straight past him at the handshake. "Virat is someone who is prepared to wear his heart on his sleeve and like all professional athletes, hates to lose," he said. "I like the way Virat plays. I don't know him personally but I've always admired -- not only his obvious skill as a player -- but the passion and aggression he plays with. People like to see that and he gets fans through the gates." Kohli's antics in Perth, where he also failed to acknowledge the crowd's applause after he was controversially given out in the first innings for 123, brought a stunning rebuke from veteran Bollywood star Naseeruddin Shah. Middle-order puzzle He described him as "not only the world's best batsman but also the world's worst behaved player", with the mass-circulation Hindustan Times saying it articulated what many Indian cricket fans had been thinking. His behaviour when the Melbourne Test begins on Wednesday will closely watched, but he has the backing of coach Ravi Shastri who on Sunday called Kohli "an absolute gentleman". Australian coach Justin Langer said Monday his biggest selection headache was whether to persist with middle-order batsman Peter Handscomb or recall all-rounder Mitch Marsh to ease the pressure on pace spearheads Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins. "In a perfectly balanced side you'll have someone who can bowl some overs so Mitch becomes an attractive commodity on a wicket probably unlike Adelaide and Perth," he said, where the surface offered fast bowlers plenty of opportunities. On the other hand, Handscomb would be an asset if the visitors opt for two spinners. India are sweating on the fitness of key spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, who was sidelined with an abdominal strain for the Perth Test. Left-arm off-spinning all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja is also carrying a niggle but is expected to be fit, as is experienced batsman Rohit Sharma, who also missed the second Test. India's main concern is the form of openers KL Rahul and Murali Vijay, who have struggled for runs, putting an extra burden on Kohli and number three Cheteshwar Pujara. Shastri made clear on Sunday more was expected from them in Melbourne. "It's obvious and that responsibility and accountability has to be taken by the top order," he said. "They've got the experience, they've got the exposure over these last few years to get out there and deliver."

'Relishing' battle with Virat Kohli, says Australia captain Tim Paine

MS Dhoni Monday returned to India's T20 squad for the February series against New Zealand, while young wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant was dropped from the ODI squad.

Dhoni's return comes as a surprise since he was dropped from the T20s against Australia only last month. The reason cited by the selectors at that time was that they were looking for a second wicketkeeper in the format.

However, justifying the 37-year-old's selection, a BCCI official, on conditions of anonymity, told PTI, "Since there are only eight ODIs (three against Australia and five against New Zealand), selectors want to give MS as much game time as possible (before the World Cup). Three T20Is means 11 international matches through the next one month."

In the ODI squad, the 21-year-old Pant's axing is the only change that the selectors have made to the side that competed against the West Indies in a home series in October-November.

India are currently engaged in a Test series against Australia and will play three ODIs against them starting January 12 in Sydney.&nbsp;

This will be followed by a limited-overs engagement with New Zealand, starting with five ODIs from January 23. The three T20 Internationals against Kiwis are lined up from February 6.&nbsp;

The squads:

India's squad for ODI series against Australia and NZ: Virat Kohli (Capt), Rohit Sharma (VC), KL Rahul, Shikhar Dhawan, Ambati Rayudu, Dinesh Karthik, Kedar Jadhav, MS Dhoni (WK), Hardik Pandya, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Ravindra Jadeja, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah, Khaleel Ahmed, Mohammed Shami.

 
India's squad for T20I series against NZ: Virat Kohli(Capt), Rohit Sharma (vc), KL Rahul, Shikhar Dhawan, Rishabh Pant, Dinesh Karthik, Kedar Jadhav, MS Dhoni (WK), Hardik Pandya, Krunal Pandya, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah, Khaleel Ahmed.

MS Dhoni Monday returned to India's T20 squad for the February series against New Zealand, while young wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant was dropped from the ODI squad.

MS Dhoni Monday returned to India's T20 squad for the February series against New Zealand, while young wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant was dropped from the ODI squad. Dhoni's return comes as a surprise since he was dropped from the T20s against Australia only last month. The reason cited by the selectors at that time was that they were looking for a second wicketkeeper in the format. However, justifying the 37-year-old's selection, a BCCI official, on conditions of anonymity, told PTI, "Since there are only eight ODIs (three against Australia and five against New Zealand), selectors want to give MS as much game time as possible (before the World Cup). Three T20Is means 11 international matches through the next one month." In the ODI squad, the 21-year-old Pant's axing is the only change that the selectors have made to the side that competed against the West Indies in a home series in October-November. India are currently engaged in a Test series against Australia and will play three ODIs against them starting January 12 in Sydney. This will be followed by a limited-overs engagement with New Zealand, starting with five ODIs from January 23. The three T20 Internationals against Kiwis are lined up from February 6. The squads: India's squad for ODI series against Australia and NZ: Virat Kohli (Capt), Rohit Sharma (VC), KL Rahul, Shikhar Dhawan, Ambati Rayudu, Dinesh Karthik, Kedar Jadhav, MS Dhoni (WK), Hardik Pandya, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Ravindra Jadeja, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah, Khaleel Ahmed, Mohammed Shami. India's squad for T20I series against NZ: Virat Kohli(Capt), Rohit Sharma (vc), KL Rahul, Shikhar Dhawan, Rishabh Pant, Dinesh Karthik, Kedar Jadhav, MS Dhoni (WK), Hardik Pandya, Krunal Pandya, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah, Khaleel Ahmed.

MS Dhoni returns in India's squad for Australia and NZ ODIs; Pant dropped

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

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

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

Virat Kohli is the energy of Indian team: Brad Hogg

Viv Richards is happy that the current Indian team has come a long way in terms of aggressive attitude from the teams that he played against and credit should go to skipper Virat Kohli for infusing positive attitude.&nbsp;

"India were not like this years back (70's, 80's and 90's). But it's nice to have someone like Virat. I love it (aggression), why not? They now love to give it back. That's what cricket is all about. I love Virat's captaincy," Richards said during a promotional event.&nbsp;

While there has been criticism for Kohli's aggressive brand of captaincy, Richards finds nothing wrong.&nbsp;

"He competes hard. He expects results. A lot of people have said he's too aggressive... I don't think so. When you have a guy who can lead from the front, it can only rub off on the individuals who are following him. As you can see, the Indian team today is the team to beat in world cricket."&nbsp;

Shifting focus to the ongoing India's Test series Down Under, Richards agreed to the euphoria that Kohli's men have the best chance to beat Australia for the first time.&nbsp;

"It's going to be a great series in Australia. Aussies have fought back well after India won the opening Test in Adelaide. Even though this Indian team are the number one, you should never underestimate Australia. They are fighters.&nbsp;

"With the series one-all now, it would be a very good one. But I would say India have the perfect chance to win a series in Australia under the aggressive captaincy of Kohli."&nbsp;

Asked about the plus point of India team, he said: "I remember the days when we came here for the first time in 1970s, they had the best spinners in the world. And now they have a great pace attack as well. I think that's the plus point."&nbsp;

For Richards, Sunil Gavaskar is the 'Godfather' of Indian batting. The bulk of Gavaskar's 34 Test hundreds have come against the fearsome West Indies pace attack of 70's and early 80's.&nbsp;

"I would say this for sure that he's the godfather of Indian batsmanship. He is not playing anymore. He's still in my opinion what he would have achieved in the past would have passed down the mantle to Sachin and now we see Virat. India should be very proud to have so many talented people, who are up there in world cricket."&nbsp;

Delving on the plight of West Indies cricket, Richards hoped they were half as good as Indians.&nbsp;

"We have gone through a bad phase, but in sport you should say never say never. So long we believe that we are going to turn it around at some phase, it's just a matter of time. It may be taking longer than normal. But at some point, we will be back at our best again," he concluded.

Viv Richards is happy that the current Indian team has come a long way in terms of aggressive attitude from the teams that he played against and credit should go to skipper Virat Kohli for infusing positive attitude.

Viv Richards is happy that the current Indian team has come a long way in terms of aggressive attitude from the teams that he played against and credit should go to skipper Virat Kohli for infusing positive attitude. "India were not like this years back (70's, 80's and 90's). But it's nice to have someone like Virat. I love it (aggression), why not? They now love to give it back. That's what cricket is all about. I love Virat's captaincy," Richards said during a promotional event. While there has been criticism for Kohli's aggressive brand of captaincy, Richards finds nothing wrong. "He competes hard. He expects results. A lot of people have said he's too aggressive... I don't think so. When you have a guy who can lead from the front, it can only rub off on the individuals who are following him. As you can see, the Indian team today is the team to beat in world cricket." Shifting focus to the ongoing India's Test series Down Under, Richards agreed to the euphoria that Kohli's men have the best chance to beat Australia for the first time. "It's going to be a great series in Australia. Aussies have fought back well after India won the opening Test in Adelaide. Even though this Indian team are the number one, you should never underestimate Australia. They are fighters. "With the series one-all now, it would be a very good one. But I would say India have the perfect chance to win a series in Australia under the aggressive captaincy of Kohli." Asked about the plus point of India team, he said: "I remember the days when we came here for the first time in 1970s, they had the best spinners in the world. And now they have a great pace attack as well. I think that's the plus point." For Richards, Sunil Gavaskar is the 'Godfather' of Indian batting. The bulk of Gavaskar's 34 Test hundreds have come against the fearsome West Indies pace attack of 70's and early 80's. "I would say this for sure that he's the godfather of Indian batsmanship. He is not playing anymore. He's still in my opinion what he would have achieved in the past would have passed down the mantle to Sachin and now we see Virat. India should be very proud to have so many talented people, who are up there in world cricket." Delving on the plight of West Indies cricket, Richards hoped they were half as good as Indians. "We have gone through a bad phase, but in sport you should say never say never. So long we believe that we are going to turn it around at some phase, it's just a matter of time. It may be taking longer than normal. But at some point, we will be back at our best again," he concluded.

India under Virat has learnt to give it back: Viv Richards

Former Australia captain Allan Border defended Virat Kohli's aggression, saying cricket needs characters like the Indian skipper who exude passion on the field.

"There's not many characters in our game at the moment. The professional era has sort of beaten that out to a certain degree," Border said on Fox Cricket's podcast -- The Follow-on.

Kohli has received severe criticism from the likes of Mike Hussey, Mitchell Johnson and Sanjay Manjrekar for his aggressive celebrations in the ongoing Test series in Australia.

The Indian skipper was also involved in a series of heated exchanges with his Australian counterpart Tim Paine, which prompted umpire Chris Gafaney to intervene during the second Test here.

"I haven't seen anyone sort of carry on so much as a captain when his side takes a wicket. It's really over the top but it's good in a way. You can see some passion about what he's trying to do," Border said.

Border added that perhaps Kohli's aggression stems from the desire to cement his legacy with an away series victory.

"He's so keen to win away from home and really deserve that number one ranking that's your KPIs (key performance indicators) as a captain I suppose," he said.

Under Kohli, India suffered two back-to-back away series defeats against South Africa and England this year.

"To drive the team to be number one, which he has achieved, but to win away from home is one of those important things you notice as a captain."

Border also opined that as the leader, Kohli feels the need to manifest the passion and drive.&nbsp;

"I think he's feeling that pinch. If you look at this Indian side he's probably the only one that has the character to get really animated," he said.

"The rest of the Indian boys are very good cricketers but seem to me a quiet bunch and maybe Kohli feels as skipper he needs to lead from the front and really show some passion and drive. I think it just comes naturally to him," he added.&nbsp;

Former Australia captain Allan Border defended Virat Kohli's aggression, saying cricket needs characters like the Indian skipper who exude passion on the field. "There's not many characters in our game at the moment.

Former Australia captain Allan Border defended Virat Kohli's aggression, saying cricket needs characters like the Indian skipper who exude passion on the field. "There's not many characters in our game at the moment. The professional era has sort of beaten that out to a certain degree," Border said on Fox Cricket's podcast -- The Follow-on. Kohli has received severe criticism from the likes of Mike Hussey, Mitchell Johnson and Sanjay Manjrekar for his aggressive celebrations in the ongoing Test series in Australia. The Indian skipper was also involved in a series of heated exchanges with his Australian counterpart Tim Paine, which prompted umpire Chris Gafaney to intervene during the second Test here. "I haven't seen anyone sort of carry on so much as a captain when his side takes a wicket. It's really over the top but it's good in a way. You can see some passion about what he's trying to do," Border said. Border added that perhaps Kohli's aggression stems from the desire to cement his legacy with an away series victory. "He's so keen to win away from home and really deserve that number one ranking that's your KPIs (key performance indicators) as a captain I suppose," he said. Under Kohli, India suffered two back-to-back away series defeats against South Africa and England this year. "To drive the team to be number one, which he has achieved, but to win away from home is one of those important things you notice as a captain." Border also opined that as the leader, Kohli feels the need to manifest the passion and drive. "I think he's feeling that pinch. If you look at this Indian side he's probably the only one that has the character to get really animated," he said. "The rest of the Indian boys are very good cricketers but seem to me a quiet bunch and maybe Kohli feels as skipper he needs to lead from the front and really show some passion and drive. I think it just comes naturally to him," he added.

Former Australia captain Border defends Kohli's aggression, says cricket needs such characters

Virat Kohli has been lately making headlines for his altercation with his &nbsp;Australian counterpart Tim Paine and today he is again in news but this time for his swashbuckling batting.&nbsp;

Indian cricket team captain, who scored a brilliant hundred in the 2nd Test, has retained his place as the top-ranked batsman in the ICC Test rankings.&nbsp;

The right-handed batsman's 123-run inning on a bounce and pace-rich Perth Stadium has helped Kohli accumulate 14 points and reach a total of 934, three away from his career-best Test rating points.

Kohli on Thursday has further extended his lead over New Zealand batsman Kane Williamson from seven to nineteen points. Kane, who became the first Kiwi cricketer to break the 900-point barrier in the ICC Player Rankings for Test Batsmen, enjoys a tally of 915 points.&nbsp;

The 28-year-old also helped his side register their first win in an away series against an Asian side in 49 years, following excellent performances against Pakistan recently.

Meanwhile, Indian vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane has gained two spots to finish 15th in the rankings while wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant has jumped 11 places to a career-best 48th.&nbsp;

Amongst the bowlers, South African pacer Kagiso Rabada leads the charts with 882 points with English fast-bowler James Anderson closely trailing him.

Indian pacer Mohammad Shami jumped two spots to finish 24th in the rankings while Jasprit Bumrah gained five places to a career-best 28th. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Ravindra Jadeja is placed 5th in the rankings with 796 points alongside spinner Ravichandran Ashwin who has finished 6th having accumulated 778 points. &nbsp;

Top 10 Test batsman

Kane Williamson 
Steve Smith 
Cheteshwar Pujara 
Joe Root 
David Warner 
Dimuth Karunaratne 
Dean Elgar 
Azhar Ali 
Henry Nicholls

Top 10 Test bowlers

Kagiso Rabada 
James Anderson 
Vernon Philander 
Mohammad Abbas 
Ravindra Jadeja 
R Ashwin 
Nathan Lyon 
Pat Cummins 
Josh Hazlewood 
Yasir Shah

Virat Kohli has been lately making headlines for his altercation with his Australian counterpart Tim Paine and today he is again in news but this time for his swashbuckling batting.

Virat Kohli has been lately making headlines for his altercation with his Australian counterpart Tim Paine and today he is again in news but this time for his swashbuckling batting. Indian cricket team captain, who scored a brilliant hundred in the 2nd Test, has retained his place as the top-ranked batsman in the ICC Test rankings. The right-handed batsman's 123-run inning on a bounce and pace-rich Perth Stadium has helped Kohli accumulate 14 points and reach a total of 934, three away from his career-best Test rating points. Kohli on Thursday has further extended his lead over New Zealand batsman Kane Williamson from seven to nineteen points. Kane, who became the first Kiwi cricketer to break the 900-point barrier in the ICC Player Rankings for Test Batsmen, enjoys a tally of 915 points. The 28-year-old also helped his side register their first win in an away series against an Asian side in 49 years, following excellent performances against Pakistan recently. Meanwhile, Indian vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane has gained two spots to finish 15th in the rankings while wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant has jumped 11 places to a career-best 48th. Amongst the bowlers, South African pacer Kagiso Rabada leads the charts with 882 points with English fast-bowler James Anderson closely trailing him. Indian pacer Mohammad Shami jumped two spots to finish 24th in the rankings while Jasprit Bumrah gained five places to a career-best 28th. Ravindra Jadeja is placed 5th in the rankings with 796 points alongside spinner Ravichandran Ashwin who has finished 6th having accumulated 778 points. Top 10 Test batsman Kane Williamson Steve Smith Cheteshwar Pujara Joe Root David Warner Dimuth Karunaratne Dean Elgar Azhar Ali Henry Nicholls Top 10 Test bowlers Kagiso Rabada James Anderson Vernon Philander Mohammad Abbas Ravindra Jadeja R Ashwin Nathan Lyon Pat Cummins Josh Hazlewood Yasir Shah

Virat Kohli extends dominance as No.1 Test batsman, Bumrah reaches career-best 28th in latest ICC rankings

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/china-warns-us-president-donald-trump-against-weaponising-space-185332">China warns US President Donald Trump against 'weaponising' space</a>

China said Wednesday&nbsp;it opposed the "weaponisation" of space as it criticised US President Donald Trump's orders&nbsp;to create a new command centre for controlling military space operations.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/mitchell-johnson-lashes-out-at-virat-kohli-calls-him-silly-and-disrespectful-185306">Virat Kohli is ‘silly and disrespectful’, says Australia's Mitchell Johnson</a>

'At the end of the match, you should be able to look each other in the eyes, shake hands and say 'great contest',' Mitchell wrote. 'Virat Kohli could not do that... '

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/isro-launches-gsat-7a-satellite-will-aid-army-air-force-communications-185316">Watch: ISRO launches GSAT-7A, </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/isro-launches-gsat-7a-satellite-will-aid-army-air-force-communications-185316">satellite</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/isro-launches-gsat-7a-satellite-will-aid-army-air-force-communications-185316"> will aid Indian Air Force communications</a>

ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) launches 2,250kg communication satellite GSAT-7A. Its&nbsp;mission life is expected to be about eight years.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-ranks-second-in-list-of-spammed-calls-in-2018-report-185310">India is </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-ranks-second-in-list-of-spammed-calls-in-2018-report-185310">world's</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-ranks-second-in-list-of-spammed-calls-in-2018-report-185310"> second-most spammed country: Truecaller</a>

The report released on Tuesday has listed Brazil in the top position.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/brexit-will-bring-down-immigration-but-there-is-no-specific-target-british-home-secretary-185325">Brexit will bring down immigration but there is no 'specific target': British Home Secretary</a>

'It will be a system that will bring net migration down to more sustainable levels,' Sajid Javid told BBC radio, although he said there was 'no specific target' for the reduction.

China warns US President Donald Trump against 'weaponising' space China said Wednesday it opposed the "weaponisation" of space as it criticised US President Donald Trump's orders to create a new command centre for controlling military space operations.

China warns US President Donald Trump against 'weaponising' space China said Wednesday it opposed the "weaponisation" of space as it criticised US President Donald Trump's orders to create a new command centre for controlling military space operations. Virat Kohli is ‘silly and disrespectful’, says Australia's Mitchell Johnson 'At the end of the match, you should be able to look each other in the eyes, shake hands and say 'great contest',' Mitchell wrote. 'Virat Kohli could not do that... ' Watch: ISRO launches GSAT-7A, satellite will aid Indian Air Force communications ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) launches 2,250kg communication satellite GSAT-7A. Its mission life is expected to be about eight years. India is world's second-most spammed country: Truecaller The report released on Tuesday has listed Brazil in the top position. Brexit will bring down immigration but there is no 'specific target': British Home Secretary 'It will be a system that will bring net migration down to more sustainable levels,' Sajid Javid told BBC radio, although he said there was 'no specific target' for the reduction.

Former Australian pacer Mitchell Johnson slammed India captain Virat Kohli, describing his behaviour as <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/kohli-is-out-of-control-i-dont-like-his-attitude-says-former-australian-cricketer-mike-hussey-184801">"disrespectful" and "silly"</a> during the second Test in Perth. Kohli and Australia captain Tim Paine were involved in a series of heated exchanges, which at one point prompted umpire Chris Gaffaney to step in to dissolve the tension.

However, once the second Test ended with Australia beating India by 146 runs, both the captains played down the issue, saying no line was crossed. But Johnson was extremely critical of Kohli's behaviour during the Test.

"At the end of the match, you should be able to look each other in the eyes, shake hands and say 'great contest'," he wrote in a column for Fox Sports.

"Virat Kohli could not do that with Tim Paine, shaking the Australian captain's hand but barely making eye contact with him. To me, that is disrespectful.

"Kohli gets away with more than most cricketers simply because he is Virat Kohli and he gets placed on a pedestal but this Test left the Indian captain looking silly," he wrote.

BCCI on Tuesday came out in support of Kohli, rubbishing media reports in Australia which claimed that Kohli had bragged about being the best batsman in the world while ridiculing Paine as a "stand-in captain".

Johnson said that Kohli didn't keep his words after making pre-series claims that he won't initiate any confrontations.

"Kohli has contradicted the things he said at the start of the series. He said he was a changed person - that he was coming in with a different attitude to last time and wasn't going to initiate anything. What we saw this Test says otherwise," he wrote.

"From my experiences with him and what I am seeing as an observer now, not much has changed. It was disappointing and that is not the only area where he let himself down."

Kohli scored a sparkling 123 in the first innings before being dismissed in a controversial fashion following a contentious catch at slip by Peter Handscomb.

Johnson was offended with Kohli for not acknowledging the standing ovation at Perth stadium after his dismissal.

"To me the catch was given out so you accept it and move on and as a player who has scored a hundred you acknowledge the standing ovation," he said.

Johnson and Kohli had a fiery relationship after the 2014 Melbourne Test where the pacer's throw had hit Kohli during his attempt to get the batsman run out.

Former Australian pacer Mitchell Johnson slammed India captain Virat Kohli, describing his behaviour as "disrespectful" and "silly" during the second Test in Perth.

Former Australian pacer Mitchell Johnson slammed India captain Virat Kohli, describing his behaviour as "disrespectful" and "silly" during the second Test in Perth. Kohli and Australia captain Tim Paine were involved in a series of heated exchanges, which at one point prompted umpire Chris Gaffaney to step in to dissolve the tension. However, once the second Test ended with Australia beating India by 146 runs, both the captains played down the issue, saying no line was crossed. But Johnson was extremely critical of Kohli's behaviour during the Test. "At the end of the match, you should be able to look each other in the eyes, shake hands and say 'great contest'," he wrote in a column for Fox Sports. "Virat Kohli could not do that with Tim Paine, shaking the Australian captain's hand but barely making eye contact with him. To me, that is disrespectful. "Kohli gets away with more than most cricketers simply because he is Virat Kohli and he gets placed on a pedestal but this Test left the Indian captain looking silly," he wrote. BCCI on Tuesday came out in support of Kohli, rubbishing media reports in Australia which claimed that Kohli had bragged about being the best batsman in the world while ridiculing Paine as a "stand-in captain". Johnson said that Kohli didn't keep his words after making pre-series claims that he won't initiate any confrontations. "Kohli has contradicted the things he said at the start of the series. He said he was a changed person - that he was coming in with a different attitude to last time and wasn't going to initiate anything. What we saw this Test says otherwise," he wrote. "From my experiences with him and what I am seeing as an observer now, not much has changed. It was disappointing and that is not the only area where he let himself down." Kohli scored a sparkling 123 in the first innings before being dismissed in a controversial fashion following a contentious catch at slip by Peter Handscomb. Johnson was offended with Kohli for not acknowledging the standing ovation at Perth stadium after his dismissal. "To me the catch was given out so you accept it and move on and as a player who has scored a hundred you acknowledge the standing ovation," he said. Johnson and Kohli had a fiery relationship after the 2014 Melbourne Test where the pacer's throw had hit Kohli during his attempt to get the batsman run out.

Virat Kohli is ‘silly and disrespectful’, says Australia's Mitchell Johnson

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2019-auction-uncapped-varun-chakravarthy-bags-rs-84-crore-deal-yuvraj-finds-a-buyer-at-last-185195">India's cash-rich tournament Indian Premier League</a> (IPL) held its auction for the 12th edition on Tuesday, and like always, this time also the cricket tournament left the fans and audience confounded with the amount shelled to buy few uncapped cricketers.

Among many, Prayas Ray Barman scripted history by becoming the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/teenagers-outclass-experienced-players-at-ipl-2019-auction-185181">youngest-ever crorepati</a> at the tender age of 16 in this year's IPL after <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/2019-ipl-auction-all-you-need-to-know-about-varun-chakravarthy-and-shivam-dube-185139">Virat Kohli-led Bangalore</a> bought him for Rs 1.5 crore from a base price Rs 20 lakh.

Born on October 23, 2002, Barman made his List A debut for Bengal in September this year in Vijay Hazare Trophy. He bowls leg-beak and is a very handy batsman. He was the leading wicket-taker for his side in the Vijay Hazare with 11 dismissals and nine catches.

Despite having an impressive List A debut against Jammu and Kashmir, bagging 4/20, Barman failed to grab a place in Bengal’s Ranji team.

Hailing from Durgapur, Prayas grew up in New Delhi where his father works as a general physician. But his growth as a cricketer happened at his native place where he joined Durgapur Cricket Centre and caught the attention in the Ambar Roy Sub-Junior Under-14 cricket tournament.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
11 wickets at a meager economy rate in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, the young 16 year old will learn a lot from <a href="https://twitter.com/yuzi_chahal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@yuzi_chahal</a>!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/12thMan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#12thMan</a>, welcome Prayas Ray Barman to Bengaluru!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PlayBold?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PlayBold</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BidForBold?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BidForBold</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPLAuction?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPLAuction</a> <a href="https://t.co/TBoiNMmT35">pic.twitter.com/TBoiNMmT35</a>
— Royal Challengers (@RCBTweets) <a href="https://twitter.com/RCBTweets/status/1075048133149843457?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Picked for Bengal U-16, he shifted his base to Kolkata where he lives in a flat with his grandparents.&nbsp;

Barman will be joining Virat Kohli and company at the Bangalore camp and it will be a huge opportunity for the young player, whose name was unknown to many across the nation before yesterday.&nbsp;

India's cash-rich tournament Indian Premier League (IPL) held its auction for the 12th edition on Tuesday, and like always, this time also the cricket tournament left the fans and audience confounded with the amount shelled to buy few uncapped cricketers.

India's cash-rich tournament Indian Premier League (IPL) held its auction for the 12th edition on Tuesday, and like always, this time also the cricket tournament left the fans and audience confounded with the amount shelled to buy few uncapped cricketers. Among many, Prayas Ray Barman scripted history by becoming the youngest-ever crorepati at the tender age of 16 in this year's IPL after Virat Kohli-led Bangalore bought him for Rs 1.5 crore from a base price Rs 20 lakh. Born on October 23, 2002, Barman made his List A debut for Bengal in September this year in Vijay Hazare Trophy. He bowls leg-beak and is a very handy batsman. He was the leading wicket-taker for his side in the Vijay Hazare with 11 dismissals and nine catches. Despite having an impressive List A debut against Jammu and Kashmir, bagging 4/20, Barman failed to grab a place in Bengal’s Ranji team. Hailing from Durgapur, Prayas grew up in New Delhi where his father works as a general physician. But his growth as a cricketer happened at his native place where he joined Durgapur Cricket Centre and caught the attention in the Ambar Roy Sub-Junior Under-14 cricket tournament. 11 wickets at a meager economy rate in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, the young 16 year old will learn a lot from @yuzi_chahal!#12thMan, welcome Prayas Ray Barman to Bengaluru!#PlayBold #BidForBold #IPLAuction pic.twitter.com/TBoiNMmT35 — Royal Challengers (@RCBTweets) December 18, 2018 × Picked for Bengal U-16, he shifted his base to Kolkata where he lives in a flat with his grandparents. Barman will be joining Virat Kohli and company at the Bangalore camp and it will be a huge opportunity for the young player, whose name was unknown to many across the nation before yesterday.

IPL 2019 auction: Bought for Rs 1.5 cr, Bangalore's Prayas Ray Barman is youngest crorepati at 16

Captain Virat Kohli has thrown his weight behind India's struggling openers but the tourists' defeat in Perth showed they have yet to find a solution to their top order woes.

Lokesh Rahul and Murali Vijay have managed only one double-digit stand midway through the four-test series in Australia, hardly the starts that would help bring India a first test series win Down Under.

Their struggles have intensified pressure on the middle order of a team with a lengthy tail, and number three Cheteshwar Pujara has had to walk out to bat inside four overs on three of the four occasions.

Opening stands made telling difference in Perth, where Australia prevailed by 146 runs to square the four-test series.

The 112-run first innings stand between Marcus Harris and Aaron Finch laid the platform for Australia's 300-plus total in a low-scoring contest and they raised 59 in the second to help set India a target which the tourists could not achieve.

Rahul, who has managed 48 in four innings, has looked like a sitting duck, with batting great Sunil Gavaskar demanding the 26-year-old be sent home to work on his game.

"I think he should come back and play Ranji Trophy for Karnataka," the former India captain told Aaj Tak channel.

"It is not just that he is out of form, he is just not there and you can see that."

Rahul has not managed a fifty in his last seven test outings and equally worrying has been the manner of his dismissals, with the right hander either bowled or trapped LBW in 11 of his last 14 innings.

India batting coach Sanjay Bangar lamented last month that the opener was "finding new ways to get out" and many believe Rahul needs to work out the flaws with his technique.

Opening partner Vijay has not covered himself in glory either on his return to the squad after he and fellow opener Shikhar Dhawan were dropped following modest returns in England.

Vijay has managed 49 runs from four innings but may still continue as opener purely because India have lost the exciting Prithvi Shaw to an ankle injury for the entire series.

"I'm sure those guys have figured out what's gone wrong in this game especially and they're very keen to correct it themselves," Kohli said in Perth of his misfiring openers.

The tourists have flown in Mayank Agarwal as replacement, rewarding the uncapped opener for his consistency in domestic cricket.

The series shifts to the traditional Boxing Day test in Melbourne followed by the finale in Sydney.

Captain Virat Kohli has thrown his weight behind India's struggling openers but the tourists' defeat in Perth showed they have yet to find a solution to their top order woes.

Captain Virat Kohli has thrown his weight behind India's struggling openers but the tourists' defeat in Perth showed they have yet to find a solution to their top order woes. Lokesh Rahul and Murali Vijay have managed only one double-digit stand midway through the four-test series in Australia, hardly the starts that would help bring India a first test series win Down Under. Their struggles have intensified pressure on the middle order of a team with a lengthy tail, and number three Cheteshwar Pujara has had to walk out to bat inside four overs on three of the four occasions. Opening stands made telling difference in Perth, where Australia prevailed by 146 runs to square the four-test series. The 112-run first innings stand between Marcus Harris and Aaron Finch laid the platform for Australia's 300-plus total in a low-scoring contest and they raised 59 in the second to help set India a target which the tourists could not achieve. Rahul, who has managed 48 in four innings, has looked like a sitting duck, with batting great Sunil Gavaskar demanding the 26-year-old be sent home to work on his game. "I think he should come back and play Ranji Trophy for Karnataka," the former India captain told Aaj Tak channel. "It is not just that he is out of form, he is just not there and you can see that." Rahul has not managed a fifty in his last seven test outings and equally worrying has been the manner of his dismissals, with the right hander either bowled or trapped LBW in 11 of his last 14 innings. India batting coach Sanjay Bangar lamented last month that the opener was "finding new ways to get out" and many believe Rahul needs to work out the flaws with his technique. Opening partner Vijay has not covered himself in glory either on his return to the squad after he and fellow opener Shikhar Dhawan were dropped following modest returns in England. Vijay has managed 49 runs from four innings but may still continue as opener purely because India have lost the exciting Prithvi Shaw to an ankle injury for the entire series. "I'm sure those guys have figured out what's gone wrong in this game especially and they're very keen to correct it themselves," Kohli said in Perth of his misfiring openers. The tourists have flown in Mayank Agarwal as replacement, rewarding the uncapped opener for his consistency in domestic cricket. The series shifts to the traditional Boxing Day test in Melbourne followed by the finale in Sydney.

IND vs AUS: Opening woes continue to blight India Down Under

The Indian cricket board (BCCI) Tuesday rubbished media reports in Australia which claimed that captain Virat Kohli bragged about being the best batsman in the world while ridiculing Tim Paine during the second Test in Perth.&nbsp;

The two captains were consistently involved in banter during the match but both insisted that no line was crossed. Reports in Australia claimed that the world's No.1 Test and ODI batsman boasted about being the best in the business during the showdowns.

The BCCI came out in support of Kohli, saying the statement attributed to Kohli was just hearsay and he never bragged about himself.&nbsp;

"It is 'assumed' that Kohli said, 'I am the best player in the world and you are just a stand-in captain'. These claims were based on hearsay and the BCCI would like to bring into notice that no such words were spoken on the field by the Indian captain," BCCI said in a statement.

"The BCCI got a clarification from the team management about the incident and would like to classify the reports as baseless."

With the banter reported by the media on the last two days of the match, Kohli faced questions on the issue but he said no one crossed the line.

"As long as there is no swearing on the field, and there's no personal attacks, the line doesn't get crossed. That's it!. But look, in the competitive spirit, it stays on the field. I am not going to go into details but to be honest it's not of importance for me to speak on and it's something that's done," Kohli said after India lost the Test by 146 runs.

Paine also insisted that things never went out of hand.

"It was a highly competitive Test match from both teams. There's a lot on the line and both teams desperately want to win and sometimes that stuff happens" Paine said during the post-match press conference.

"It was just two competitive cricketers trying to do their best to win the game," Paine said.

The Indian cricket board (BCCI) Tuesday rubbished media reports in Australia which claimed that captain Virat Kohli bragged about being the best batsman in the world while ridiculing Tim Paine during the second Test in Perth.

The Indian cricket board (BCCI) Tuesday rubbished media reports in Australia which claimed that captain Virat Kohli bragged about being the best batsman in the world while ridiculing Tim Paine during the second Test in Perth. The two captains were consistently involved in banter during the match but both insisted that no line was crossed. Reports in Australia claimed that the world's No.1 Test and ODI batsman boasted about being the best in the business during the showdowns. The BCCI came out in support of Kohli, saying the statement attributed to Kohli was just hearsay and he never bragged about himself. "It is 'assumed' that Kohli said, 'I am the best player in the world and you are just a stand-in captain'. These claims were based on hearsay and the BCCI would like to bring into notice that no such words were spoken on the field by the Indian captain," BCCI said in a statement. "The BCCI got a clarification from the team management about the incident and would like to classify the reports as baseless." With the banter reported by the media on the last two days of the match, Kohli faced questions on the issue but he said no one crossed the line. "As long as there is no swearing on the field, and there's no personal attacks, the line doesn't get crossed. That's it!. But look, in the competitive spirit, it stays on the field. I am not going to go into details but to be honest it's not of importance for me to speak on and it's something that's done," Kohli said after India lost the Test by 146 runs. Paine also insisted that things never went out of hand. "It was a highly competitive Test match from both teams. There's a lot on the line and both teams desperately want to win and sometimes that stuff happens" Paine said during the post-match press conference. "It was just two competitive cricketers trying to do their best to win the game," Paine said.

BCCI says Virat Kohli never said 'he’s the best player in the world'

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/virat-reminds-me-a-lot-of-imran-khan-says-ravi-shastri-34771">utility of Virat Kohli and Ravi Shastri</a> as captain and coach must be assessed if India fail to win the next two Tests against Australia, suggested batting legend Sunil Gavaskar, who is baffled by the "selection blunders" committed by the team management.

India lost the Perth Test by 146 runs to allow the hosts level the four-match series 1-1. India went in with four specialist pacers while Australia picked spinner Nathan Lyon, who eventually tuned out to be the difference between the two sides.

Gavaskar was not impressed with the selection choices made by the team management.

"We have been seeing this - the selection blunders that have been committed since the tour of South Africa. It has cost the team because it has lost matches which could've been won if the proper selection had been made," Gavaskar said.&nbsp;

"They have to look at the combination of their team, look at the hole that needs to be plugged and pick the men to. If they do that then they can certainly win the next two matches but if they don't, and that too against this Australian team which does not have Steve Smith or David Warner, then the selectors need to think whether we are getting any benefit from this lot - the captain, coach and support staff,&nbsp;Gavaskar said. &nbsp;

The former opener questioned the logic for picking a jumbo squad.&nbsp;

"I want to find out that who has authorised 19 players to go because the next question is why not three more? The BCCI is a very rich body, it can afford to send even 40 people down there. However, I feel that an India cap, an Indian blazer has to be made a lot more valuable. ... By carrying players and taking 19 players, I do believe that the selection committee has not handled their responsibility well," he said.&nbsp;

"A lot of those players can come back and play domestic cricket which will not only embellish our domestic cricket, lift the standard of our domestic cricket but also give these guys, unlikely to be picked in the Test matches, an opportunity to regain form and make a case for getting back in the team," he added.&nbsp;

The first one on the flight back home from Perth should be India opener KL Rahul according to Gavaskar.

"He (Rahul) has no chance of playing in the remaining two Tests unless of course there is an injury to any player. I think that he should be coming back and playing Ranji Trophy for Karnataka. It is not just that he is out of form, he is just not there and you can see that. He can prove me wrong and I will be very happy to be proven wrong as long as the Indian team benefits."

The utility of Virat Kohli and Ravi Shastri as captain and coach must be assessed if India fail to win the next two Tests against Australia, suggested batting legend Sunil Gavaskar, who is baffled by the "selection blunders" committed by the team management.

The utility of Virat Kohli and Ravi Shastri as captain and coach must be assessed if India fail to win the next two Tests against Australia, suggested batting legend Sunil Gavaskar, who is baffled by the "selection blunders" committed by the team management. India lost the Perth Test by 146 runs to allow the hosts level the four-match series 1-1. India went in with four specialist pacers while Australia picked spinner Nathan Lyon, who eventually tuned out to be the difference between the two sides. Gavaskar was not impressed with the selection choices made by the team management. "We have been seeing this - the selection blunders that have been committed since the tour of South Africa. It has cost the team because it has lost matches which could've been won if the proper selection had been made," Gavaskar said. "They have to look at the combination of their team, look at the hole that needs to be plugged and pick the men to. If they do that then they can certainly win the next two matches but if they don't, and that too against this Australian team which does not have Steve Smith or David Warner, then the selectors need to think whether we are getting any benefit from this lot - the captain, coach and support staff, Gavaskar said. The former opener questioned the logic for picking a jumbo squad. "I want to find out that who has authorised 19 players to go because the next question is why not three more? The BCCI is a very rich body, it can afford to send even 40 people down there. However, I feel that an India cap, an Indian blazer has to be made a lot more valuable. ... By carrying players and taking 19 players, I do believe that the selection committee has not handled their responsibility well," he said. "A lot of those players can come back and play domestic cricket which will not only embellish our domestic cricket, lift the standard of our domestic cricket but also give these guys, unlikely to be picked in the Test matches, an opportunity to regain form and make a case for getting back in the team," he added. The first one on the flight back home from Perth should be India opener KL Rahul according to Gavaskar. "He (Rahul) has no chance of playing in the remaining two Tests unless of course there is an injury to any player. I think that he should be coming back and playing Ranji Trophy for Karnataka. It is not just that he is out of form, he is just not there and you can see that. He can prove me wrong and I will be very happy to be proven wrong as long as the Indian team benefits."

Kohli, Shastri's utility must be assessed if India do not win remaining Tests: Gavaskar

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

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

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

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

virat-kohli

Virat Kohli, News on Virat Kohli, stories on Virat Kohli, articles on Virat Kohli, Virat Kohli stories at Wion, Virat Kohli news, Virat Kohli latest news

virat kohli

IND vs AUS, 3rd Test: Australia eight for no loss at stumps on Day 2

IND vs AUS, 3rd Test: Kohli and Pujara return to crease, India are 277/2 after 117 overs

IND vs AUS, 3rd Test: Pujara hits 17th Test hundred; India are 271/2 after 115 overs

Virat Kohli's reign of dominance over the world cricket in 2018

IND vs AUS: Virat Kohli breaks Rahul Dravid's 16-year old record

3rd Test: Australia 8 for no loss at stumps on day 2, India declare at 443/7

IND vs AUS, 3rd Test: Mayank Agarwal shines on debut, India are 215/2 at stumps on Day 1

'Wouldn't complain about the pitch, it was good to bat on', says Mayank Agarwal after his maiden Test half-century

3rd Test: Australia's almost 'invincible' record awaits India on Boxing Day

Kohli's message to batsmen: Bowlers won't be able to do anything with totals we've been putting up

News brief: Big stories of the day

'Relishing' battle with Virat Kohli, says Australia captain Tim Paine

MS Dhoni returns in India's squad for Australia and NZ ODIs; Pant dropped

Virat Kohli is the energy of Indian team: Brad Hogg

India under Virat has learnt to give it back: Viv Richards

Former Australia captain Border defends Kohli's aggression, says cricket needs such characters

Virat Kohli extends dominance as No.1 Test batsman, Bumrah reaches career-best 28th in latest ICC rankings

News brief: Big stories of the day

Virat Kohli is ‘silly and disrespectful’, says Australia's Mitchell Johnson

IPL 2019 auction: Bought for Rs 1.5 cr, Bangalore's Prayas Ray Barman is youngest crorepati at 16

IND vs AUS: Opening woes continue to blight India Down Under

BCCI says Virat Kohli never said 'he’s the best player in the world'

Kohli, Shastri's utility must be assessed if India do not win remaining Tests: Gavaskar

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