Australia’s bowlers showcased outstanding skill and precision, reducing India to a challenging position in the ongoing Test match in Perth. The standout performances came from Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood, who took key wickets as India struggled to build partnerships. With precise bowling and sharp fielding, the hosts are in a commanding position.

Reddy's promising knock cut short by brilliant catch

Amidst the top-order fall Reddy was trying to stand tall on his debut match, but in a moment of brilliance, Usman Khawaja took a stunning running catch to dismiss India's Nitish Reddy for 41 (59). Reddy had been looking confident at the crease, displaying impressive shots, including an upper-cut for six and a few boundaries. However, his promising innings ended when he top-edged a pull shot off Pat Cummins’ bowling, handing Khawaja a spectacular catch.

Pant falls to Cummins after brief resistance

Rishabh Pant, who had been playing steadily, fell for 37 (78) when a thick leading edge was caught by Steve Smith in the slips off Cummins’ bowling. Pant’s dismissal proved to be a turning point, as India lost another key wicket, leaving their middle order exposed.

Earlier Dhruv Jurel (11 off 20) also fell to Starc, caught by Labuschagne, while Washington Sundar (4 off 15) was dismissed poking outside off, caught by Carey. KL Rahul (26 off 74) was given out caught behind after a review confirmed an edge. Virat Kohli (5 off 12) and Devdutt Padikkal (0 off 23) fell to short-pitched deliveries, both caught by Khawaja and Carey respectively. Yashasvi Jaiswal (0) was another early casualty, edging Starc to McSweeney at gully. India’s lower order struggled to resist, and they were eventually dismissed by the Australian bowlers in a dominant performance.

See Also: "Follow the process" - Here's what Kohli says Yashasvi before the Perth Test

Marsh strikes twice, breaking India's middle order

Australia’s bowlers delivered a clinical performance, picking up wickets at crucial moments and putting India under constant pressure. Pat Cummins was the standout, claiming key wickets, including that of Nitish Reddy, who was caught by Khawaja after a tough midwicket chance, and Bumrah, who edged a full delivery to Carey. Josh Hazlewood also played a pivotal role, dismissing both Kohli and Padikkal, with the former caught by Khawaja and the latter caught by Carey. Nathan Lyon, with his subtle spin, contributed by dismissing Nitish Reddy with a reverse-sweep catch, further rattling the Indian lineup. Mitchell Starc made his mark with wickets of Jurel and Jaiswal, while Mitchell Marsh’s accurate bowling accounted for Sundar, caught by Carey. The Australian bowlers, led by Cummins and supported by Hazlewood, Lyon, Starc, and Marsh, were relentless in their efforts, securing India’s collapse and restricting them to a modest total.

India was bowled out for 150, with Nitish Reddy (41) and Rishabh Pant (38) being the top scorers. Australia’s bowlers, led by Josh Hazlewood (4/29) and Mitchell Marsh (2/12), dominated the innings.

India barely managed to crawl past the 100-run against a relentless Australian bowling attack. The absence of seasoned campaigners like Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane was palpable as Mitchell Starc and Mitchell Marsh tormented the Indian lineup. Fans couldn’t help but reminisce about the duo, who are now offering insights from the commentary box instead of their usual stoic presence at the crease.

Pant's lone fight amid the collapse

Amid a top-order failure, Rishabh Pant stood tall with his characteristic grit and flair. He endured the Aussie pace barrage, including a fiery spell from Mitchell Starc, and capitalized on a rare dropped catch by Pat Cummins. Pant's ability to counter-attack gave India a glimmer of hope, especially after debutant Nitish Kumar Reddy joined him to stabilize the innings. Their partnership, although scratchy, ensured India crossed the 100-run mark. A fuller delivery on a straighter line swings away late, catching Rishabh Pant's outside edge as he tries to flick. Steven Smith at second slip grabs a sharp catch, ending Pant's valiant knock of 37 off 78. India now reeling at 121/7.

However, it wasn’t smooth sailing. Starc's probing deliveries and Marsh's crucial breakthroughs left India reeling. A spirited effort from Pant brought some respite, but the road ahead remains arduous for the hosts.

See Also: AUS vs IND, Perth Test: Was KL Rahul really out? Explained

Fans yearn for Pujara and Rahane's stability

As the wickets kept tumbling, fans turned nostalgic, recalling the resilience of Pujara and Rahane. Social media was abuzz with comparisons, with many lamenting the absence of the experienced duo in the lineup. Their commentary, insightful as ever, added salt to the wounds of fans yearning for their calmness under pressure.

The current Indian batting order may have talent, but the lack of experience was evident against the likes of Starc and Cummins. As India inches forward, the onus lies on Pant and the lower order to salvage what remains of a challenging innings.

See Also: IPL 2025 to start on March 14; Dates revealed for next three seasons

Where is the number 3 of this Indian team who defends for 50 over and softens the ball so that the likes of Pant can come and play their shots for the next 30 overs? Where is the wall of India? Who is the Dravid, Pujara Rahane of this team #INDvsAUS #BGT2025#Kohli

— MadMax (@BullsVsBearss) November 22, 2024

Two left-handers, two ducks, and Paddikal’s struggles finally come to an end… Trust me, this tour will constantly remind you of Rahane and Pujara at every moment. pic.twitter.com/6rBtEi439Z

— Vipin Tiwari (@Vipintiwari952) November 22, 2024

Pujji should be allowed to step down from com box to the crease for gods sake ,For every Pant to win you games, you need a Pujara to stand like a rock at the other end. Sadly we don't .

— Jaammii.. (@Jaammiing) November 22, 2024

INDIA HAVE SCORED MORE THAN 36 RUNS IN AUSTRALIA. 🤯😳

— Himanshu Pareek (@Sports_Himanshu) November 22, 2024

national animal of australia - kangaroo
national animal of india - duck

— Xavier Uncle (@xavierunclelite) November 22, 2024

Australia thought they can get India out under 50? 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣 Let's laugh at the Aussies.

— Silly Point (@FarziCricketer) November 22, 2024

When the whole team is playing like they've never seen a cricket bat but you're just a chill guy standing in the middle with the number 17 jersey on. pic.twitter.com/I1Ay5vylKi

— Heisenberg ☢ (@internetumpire) November 22, 2024

KL Rahul’s dismissal in the ongoing Perth Test has stirred controversy among fans and cricket experts alike. The decision came during a crucial phase of the game, just minutes before lunch, when Mitchell Starc delivered a sharp ball that seemed to brush past Rahul's bat. Initially given not out by the on-field umpire, Australia opted for a review, and UltraEdge detected a spike as the ball passed the bat. However, Rahul insisted the ball made contact with his pad flap and not the bat. The umpire upheld the third umpire's decision, declaring Rahul out, much to the dismay of the batter and Indian supporters.

Fans have taken to social media, claiming that the UltraEdge spike may have been caused by the bat striking the pad and not the ball. Experts, including former cricketers, have echoed these sentiments, arguing that the evidence was inconclusive and the benefit of the doubt should have gone to the batter.

Rahul’s dismissal raises questions about DRS protocol

The on-field umpire initially ruled KL Rahul not out after Australia’s appeal for a caught-behind dismissal. However, upon reviewing the decision, the third umpire overturned it, citing a spike on UltraEdge. This spike appeared as the ball passed the bat, but Rahul’s bat also seemed to simultaneously hit the pad, adding to the ambiguity.

Despite Rahul’s visible disbelief and a request for a front-on angle, the third umpire relied on an inconclusive angle from behind the stumps to make the final call. Typically, in cases of inconclusive evidence, the on-field umpire’s decision is upheld. However, in this instance, the decision was reversed, sparking debates about consistency in DRS protocols.

Forced to depart for 26 off 74 balls, Rahul’s exit left India struggling at 47/4 just before lunch, with his reaction reflecting the frustration of an outcome marred by unclear evidence.

See Also: Watch: Hazlewood strikes big as Kohli falls early in Perth

Fans and experts react to the controversial call

The dismissal has sparked a heated debate on social media. This incident adds to the ongoing discussion about the accuracy and reliability of DRS technology, with many questioning whether it truly eliminates human error. 

"His pad and bat are not together at that point in time as the ball passes.

"It's (bat hitting pad) after, in fact, the ball passes the edge. Does Snicko pick up the sound of the bat hitting the pad?

"We're assuming (Snicko) may be the outside edge of the bat but that may not… pic.twitter.com/hvG0AF9rdo

— 7Cricket (@7Cricket) November 22, 2024

DRS to the rescue for Australia!

Snicko shows an edge and KL Rahul goes.

Starc has 2/6 in his 7th over 🔥 #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/R4mW3yE3VM

— 7Cricket (@7Cricket) November 22, 2024

This fraction of second and gap in frame costed many decisons.

There was no conclusive evidence to overturn the original decision.

BTW Well Played KL Rahul 👏
A great knock and hopefully a good series ahead.#CricketTwitter#KLRahul pic.twitter.com/28yDlrPSzT

— Riseup Pant (@riseup_pant17) November 22, 2024

There was no off-side angle available and that means there wasn’t enough evidence to overturn the decision because KL Rahul’s bat had hit the pad.

This is a shocking decision by the third-umpire. Absolutely shocking!

#INDvAUS pic.twitter.com/YttQzXhSYp

— Madhav Sharma (@HashTagCricket) November 22, 2024

What the hell, that’s not out! These umpires need to get their heads checked.

KL Rahul won’t be happy; he was looking amazing out there! pic.twitter.com/O17H6UnfhM

— Vipin Tiwari (@Vipintiwari952) November 22, 2024

The only batter who looked solid was KL Rahul but poor decision got him out 💔 pic.twitter.com/YHr8TCCS14

— Dinda Academy (@academy_dinda) November 22, 2024

Virat Kohli's innings ended prematurely during the ongoing Test match at Perth as Josh Hazlewood delivered a fiery spell. Known for his resilience, Kohli struggled to settle against the relentless Australian pacers. Facing just 12 balls, Kohli managed 5 runs before a sharp delivery from Hazlewood led to his dismissal, marking a significant breakthrough for the hosts.

Hazlewood strikes big to remove Virat Kohli

Hazlewood, bowling with precision and extracting extra bounce from the lively Perth pitch, kept Kohli on his toes. The decisive moment came in the 17th over. Hazlewood bowled a hard-length delivery just outside off-stump that reared off the pitch, catching Kohli by surprise. Attempting to steer clear of the line, Kohli inadvertently edged the ball, and Usman Khawaja at first slip took a comfortable catch.

Extra bounce from Hazlewood - Kohli's back in the sheds for five #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/6M5DjgOqrV

— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) November 22, 2024

India in trouble as early wickets fall
India’s batting lineup has struggled against Australia’s seam attack on a pitch offering plenty of assistance to the bowlers. After an engaging first hour of play, Kohli’s dismissal left India at 18/3, with KL Rahul and incoming batters shouldering the responsibility of stabilizing the innings.

The Australian pace trio of Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc, and Pat Cummins has consistently exploited the conditions, making life difficult for the Indian batters. With the ball seaming and bouncing off the deck, the Indian lineup faces a steep challenge ahead to recover and post a competitive score.

See Also: Former Pakistan cricketer and international umpire passes away

Despite his early dismissal, Virat Kohli holds the distinction of having the highest batting average for an Asian batsman at Perth, boasting an impressive 52.80, surpassing even the legendary Sachin Tendulkar, who averaged 37.66 at this venue. However, today marked an unusual low for Kohli, as he was dismissed for a single digit for the first time in his career at Perth, highlighting the exceptional challenge posed by the Australian bowlers on this lively surface.

As India gear up for the AUS vs IND 1st Test in Perth on November 22, all eyes are on Virat Kohli. The batting maestro, known for his unparalleled commitment to preparation, is set to be a key player in the highly anticipated series. Former India fielding coach R Sridhar shed light on Kohli’s rigorous training regimen and his approach to overcoming challenges in SENA (South Africa, England, New Zealand, and Australia) countries.

Kohli’s unique training routine

Virat Kohli’s preparations for major overseas series have always been intense and calculated. Speaking to Times of India, Sridhar revealed that Kohli’s training involves batting on the toughest pitches and facing up to 200–250 deliveries in every session. These drills include match simulations and high-pressure practice scenarios.

According to Sridhar, Kohli prefers to arrive early for such series, giving himself 10–12 days to adapt to the conditions. During this period, he focuses on honing his technique and staying mentally prepared. Sridhar estimated that before the first Test in Perth, Kohli might have already faced over 1,000–1,500 deliveries in practice sessions, showcasing his dedication to perfection.

“Kohli thrives on challenging himself. He demands the most difficult pitches and pushes bowlers to test him under match-like scenarios. This rigorous preparation defines his success in challenging conditions,” Sridhar said.

See Also: Former Pakistan cricketer and international umpire passes away

Pressure to overcome a slump in form

While Kohli’s fitness remains at its peak, 2024 has been a challenging year for him in Test cricket. His performances in recent series against Bangladesh and New Zealand were below par, with only 93 runs across three Tests against the Kiwis. These struggles have raised concerns ahead of the high-stakes Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

Despite his dip in form, Kohli’s track record in Australia is exceptional. With eight centuries and five fifties to his name in Tests Down Under, Kohli remains a formidable opponent. Moreover, he has been dismissed for a duck only three times against the Aussies in his Test career. As Kohli prepares to take on Australia in Perth, fans and critics alike are hopeful that he will rediscover his rhythm and lead India to a strong start.

The Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 will begin on November 22nd in the Optus Stadium in Perth. India, who have won the last four BGTs, is up against a home team eager to end their winning streak. Rohit Sharma's unavailability will be felt, as Jasprit Bumrah leads the Indian team. 
Let's check out Three key player battles to watch include:

Jasprit Bumrah vs Travis Head: 

Jasprit Bumrah, India's top fast bowler, will face Travis Head, Australia's in-form batter. Head has a long history of troubling Indian bowlers, so Bumrah will have to be at his best to contain him. Bumrah's unique action and capacity to generate reverse swing may be the key to dismissing Head cheaply. Travis Head's Test cricket career has been significantly impacted by Jasprit Bumrah, who dismissed him twice during their encounters. Despite this, Head has scored 50 runs off 126 balls against Bumrah, averaging 25.

Virat Kohli vs Mitchell Starc:

Virat Kohli, an experienced and successful Indian batter, will compete against Mitchell Starc, Australia's top fast bowler. Starc is known for extracting speed and bounce from perhaps the most benign pitches, making him an uphill battle for Kohli. Mitchell Starc dismissed Virat Kohli four times in Test cricket matches. Notably, Kohli has still scored 236 runs off 394 balls against Starc, with an impressive average of 59. This suggests that, despite being dismissed four times, Kohli always performed well against Starc, demonstrating his versatility and batsmanship.

Ravindra Jadeja vs Steve Smith:

Ravindra Jadeja, India's veteran off-spinner, will face off against Steve Smith, Australia's experienced and successful batter. Smith is known for his history of handling Jadeja well, but Jadeja has been developing his variations and can be unpredictable. The duel between these two will be critical in determining the series' outcome, as both players have the ability to change the game with a few well-placed deliveries completely. Ravindra Jadeja dismissed Steve Smith eight times in Test cricket. Despite this, Smith has scored 270 runs from 735 balls, averaging 33.

Pat Cummins vs KL Rahul:

In the absence of Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul will open the batting against Pat Cummins. His biggest challenge will be Pat Cummins, who is tall and fast. The Australian speedster hasn't been at his best in a few months, and the same is true for the struggling KL Rahul. Both players will attempt to get on top of each other. KL Rahul has been dismissed twice by Pat Cummins in Test matches. Nonetheless, he has managed to score a respectable 80 runs off 157 balls against Cummins. His batting average of 40 and strike rate of 51 show his ability to counter Cummins' bowling.

Marnus Labuschagne vs Ravindra Jadeja:

The battle between Marnus Labuschagne and Ravindra Jadeja will be crucial in determining the series' outcome. Labuschagne's adaptability to different bowling styles will be tested against Jadeja's spin. Jadeja's experience and skill will make it difficult for Labuschagne to score freely, making this a battle to remember. Ravindra Jadeja knocked out Marnus Labuschagne five times in Test cricket, while Labuschagne has 99 runs off 301 balls at an average of 19 and a strike rate of 32.

One of the most awaited series begins. India taking on Australia in Australia. A lot of narratives come in but to start, we will be seeing two fast bowlers at the top of their games leading their sides at Perth. India will be hurting after getting whitewashed by New Zealand at home and they know that their hopes of getting to the WTC Finals is now very slim. While the required margin of 4-0 in Australia is a next-to-impossible task for India to achieve against Australia, they will be hoping to get some results to keep themselves in and about the top two. Can they though? Their line-up possess so many questions.

Firstly their opening issue with Rohit Sharma out and their number three Shubman Gill injured as well. The next question they will face is the inclusion of their spinners. While Perth generally offers very little for spin early on, the cracks opening up does tend to bring spinners in as Nathan Lyon once spun India to defeat in 2018. India has Ashwin, Jadeja and Washington Sundar. In the past they have looked at Jadeja as the sole spinner overseas but Ashwin did really well last time in Australia and the lefties in the line-up could push him in the reckoning as well. Furthermore, while Ashwin is a little off rhythm, both Ashwin and Jadeja have in the past shown that the duo can both find space in the eleven with Jadeja in particular contributing spectacularly with the bat. Their pace attack is another question given they are short on experience. The biggest concern though will be Virat Kohli who is due a big score. Can Australia bring the best out of him?

Australia has a more settled line-up, fortunately. The return of Smith to number four though left an opening spot vacant and that is where Nathan McSweeny will get his opportunity. Australia are likely to start with their big three pacers and Nathan Lyon but they will remember the importance of rotation given their pacers were tired by the time India came to the Gabba last time around. Australia will be eager to get the cup back to them after last winning the Border Gavaskar in 2014. With India short on experience and form this is their best chance. They will look to silence Virat Kohli and in turn find ways to get him thinking about his future as well.

AUS vs IND Match Details

Date: November 22nd, 2024

Time:  7:50 AM IST

Venue: Perth Stadium

AUS vs IND Weather Report

The weather is clear for the Test with some heat coming in towards the back end. 

AUS vs IND Pitch Report

Batting first generally remains a better option in most Australian grounds. With rain in the lead-up to the Test match though the pitch could have some extra moisture which prevents the cracks from opening up as easily.

AUS vs IND Head to Head

AUS vs IND Predicted Playing XI

AUS Playing XI

Usman Khawaja, Nathan McSweeney, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, Alex Carey, Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood

IND Playing XI

Yashashvi Jaiswal, Abhimanyu Easwaran, KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Sarfaraz Khan/ Dhruv Jurel/ Nitish Kumar Reddy, Rishabh Pant, Ravindra Jadeja/ Harshit Rana, Ravichandran Ashwin, Mohammad Siraj, Jasprit Bumrah, Prasidh Krishna 

See Also: Today’s Cricket Match Predictions – Cricket Winner

AUS vs IND Key Players

Ravichandran Ashwin

The spotlight has been on Virat Kohli's form but another legend who didn't have a good time at home against New Zealand was Ravichandran Ashwin. While Ashwin still has it in him and is bowling well, his rhythm has been off. Like Kohli though, he loves the competition and challenge and will be waiting to get going at the Aussies. He has a strong chance of making the eleven with his head to head against Smith and the presence of a good number of lefties in the Aussie side. Overall though Ashwin will be waiting to get in and find form very soon.

Marnus Labuschagne

While the talk generally is about Steve Smith's mammoth scores against India in the past and Travis Head's recent love for the Indian bowlers, Marnus Labuschagne is one to silently watch. On the last tour to Australia, Labuschagne was consistent in making crucial fifties, and a hundred as well, batting out time and silently irritating the Indian bowlers.

AUS vs IND Match Tips

India's confidence would have taken a huge beating after their last series against New Zealand and Australia is one of the toughest places to visit when low on confidence. While the Indian players are capable of getting back to form, Australia are likely to start favorites given their own strength at home.

Match Prediction: Australia Will Win The Match

In a thrilling turn of events at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, Indian captain Rohit Sharma did not hide his relief at the Australian cricket team being knocked out of the tournament. This significant development comes ahead of India’s all-important semi-final clash against England at the Providence Stadium in Guyana.

Rohit Sharma’s relief

When asked about his biggest takeaway from the victory over Australia, Rohit Sharma’s witty remark, “That there is no more Australian cricket team in this competition,” left everyone in splits. This statement underlined the immense pressure and respect that the Australian cricket team commands in the cricketing world.

See Also: India’s T20I squad update: Shivam Dube replaces injured Nitish Reddy for Zimbabwe tour

India have had a stellar run in the tournament so far, remaining unbeaten in the group stages. Key matches and turning points include their victories over Pakistan and South Africa, which solidified their dominance and boosted team morale.

The Match against Australia

The clash against Australia was a pivotal moment for India. Rohit Sharma was the star of the show, delivering a sublime knock of 92 runs in just 41 balls. His aggressive batting set the tone for India’s innings, allowing them to post a competitive total. Contributions from other key players like Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, and Arshdeep Singh with the ball ensured that Australia’s chase fell short by 24 runs.

Pre-Match Press conference

At the pre-match press conference ahead of the semi-final against England, Rohit Sharma’s confidence was palpable. His witty remark about Australia’s elimination highlighted the mental edge India gained from their victory over the Australians. The press conference also emphasized the importance of confidence and execution in T20 cricket.

“That there is no more Australian cricket team in this competition,” said Rohit while breaking into laughter.

Confidence boost for India

The victory over Australia provided a significant confidence boost for the Indian team. T20 cricket is often described as a game of confidence, where the mental state of players can greatly influence their performance. The Indian team’s ability to defend a challenging total against a formidable Australian batting line-up instilled a sense of belief and momentum.

“Australia is a great side. That is the reason they have won so many championships. The last game was the confidence of bowlers executing their plans. The batters going out and doing your jobs. So I think, that was the big one for us. When you play a game against a quality team and win like that, that gives you so much confidence. This format is all about confidence. As long as you have confidence in what you want to do, you are putting your foot in the right direction. That is what we wanted from that game. We wanted to take a lot of confidence. Batters getting the job done and bowlers trying to defend that score.”

Rohit Sharma’s personal satisfaction

For Rohit Sharma, the match against Australia was personally satisfying. He has long aspired to dominate high-pressure games by putting pressure on bowlers, and his performance against Australia was a testament to his hard work and strategic acumen.

“We know the batting line-up Australia has, no score is safe. For us to defend and win by 20 odd runs, it was a great confidence. Personally, I wanted to try something that I have been trying for a number of years, which was to put pressure on the bowlers. For me to do that was a great satisfaction. I was waiting for that game. When the result is in your favour, it is a great satisfaction,” Rohit added.

India’s Quest for ICC Trophy

India’s cricketing history have seen its fair share of heartbreaks, most notably the 2023 World Cup final loss to Australia. Such defeats have left an indelible mark on the team and its supporters, adding to the pressure to win a global title.

India’s last global title came in 2013 when they won the Champions Trophy. The team have not won the T20 World Cup since the inaugural edition in 2007 under MS Dhoni’s captaincy. The 11-year drought for a major ICC trophy is a significant motivator for the current squad.

Sachin Tendulkar, the epitome of cricketing excellence, celebrates his 51st birthday amidst the repercussions of his unparalleled legacy. From the green fields of Maharashtra to the grand stadiums of international cricket, Tendulkar’s journey is not merely a tale of runs scored but a saga of inspiration, dedication, and unwavering passion for the sport.

Sachin Tendulkar’s Early Years

In the annals of cricket history, Sachin Tendulkar’s name resonates with unparalleled reverence. Making his Test debut at 16 in 1989, Tendulkar swiftly rose to prominence with his prodigious talent and unwavering determination. His foray into One Day International (ODI) cricket further solidified his status as a cricketing prodigy.

See Also: Watch: KKR introduce new spinner from Afghanistan

Sachin’s Monumental Records

Tendulkar’s cricketing prowess is immortalized through many records that testify to his dominance on the field. With 34,357 runs across 664 international appearances, Tendulkar etched his name as the highest run-scorer in international cricket. His century of centuries remains unparalleled in the annals of cricketing history.

Tendulkar, known as ‘Master Blaster’ for his ability to blast his way through any bowling attack and his mastery over every skill, technique, and shot in the book, entertained and mesmerized the entire world with his batting from 1989 to 2013. Holding nearly every batting record imaginable, adorned with accolades such as the Khel Ratna and Bharat Ratna, and known affectionately as the Master Blaster, the genius of Tendulkar legend lives on.

He has scored 100 centuries and 164 half-centuries, the most in international cricket. He is the only player to have a century of centuries. In addition to Test cricket, Sachin has created numerous records in the ODI format.

With 18,426 runs in ODIs at an average of 44.83, 49 centuries, and 96 half-centuries, and 15,921 runs in Tests at an average of 53.78, 51 centuries, and 68 fifties, Sachin has the highest runs in both formats. The Master Blaster is also the first-ever cricketer to have hit a double hundred in ODIs and played 200 Test matches.

As Sachin Tendulkar turns another year older, cricket enthusiasts worldwide pause to celebrate the enduring legacy of the ‘God’ of cricket. Beyond the numbers, Tendulkar’s birthday is a poignant reminder of his indelible mark on the sport and the hearts of millions of fans globally.

Sachin’s Iconic Innings: The Desert Storm

Against the backdrop of scorching desert heat and the formidable Australian cricket team, Sachin Tendulkar crafted an innings of unparalleled brilliance, etching his name in the annals of cricket history. Even a quarter of a century later, Tendulkar’s ‘Desert Storm innings remain a testament to his genius and indomitable spirit.

In the heart of the desert at Sharjah Cricket Stadium, India faced a monumental challenge against the mighty Australian side. With the task of surpassing a daunting target of 285 to secure a place in the final, the odds were stacked against them. The match held immense significance for Indian cricket, with qualification hinging on the outcome against Australia.

The ‘Desert Storm’ Unfolds

As the sandstorm swept across the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, play was temporarily halted, intensifying the challenge for both teams. However, Tendulkar’s resolve remained unshaken as he resumed his onslaught upon resumption, treating the audience to a spectacle of masterful batting prowess amidst the chaos of nature.

India ensured they would take part in the final to be played two days later, after crossing their qualification target of 237 with Tendulkar stroking past his previous best – 137 – in ODIs with the shot embellishing the event with poetic symbolism.

The match’s narrative unfolded dramatically with each stroke of Tendulkar’s bat. As he surpassed his previous best in ODIs, Tendulkar propelled India towards victory and ensured their qualification for the final. His record-breaking century not only sealed India’s place in the finals but also etched his name in the annals of cricketing history.

Adding bells and whistles to the brilliant knock was Tony Grieg’s voice behind the microphone in the commentary. His lines, “They are dancing in the aisles in Sharjah,” to capture the excitement among the fans at the stadium, “Sacchinn Tendulkar. Whadddaplaya, what a wonderful player!” immortalizing the great man’s innings.

India fell 25 runs short of victory, but Tendulkar’s hand gave him and his side a chance to take on the Aussies again in the finals two days later. Along with his 25th birthday, Tendulkar smashed another century, this time to help India win the Coco Cola Cup.

Tendulkar’s Triumph in the Desert Storm Final

In the nail-biting final match against Australia, Tendulkar emerged as the beacon of hope for the Indian team. With a scintillating century, he propelled India to victory, showcasing his grit and unwavering determination even in the face of formidable opponents. He went on to hammer 134 runs in 131 balls, with 12 fours and 3 sixes in his innings, helping his side win the match by four wickets, and lift the trophy.

Tendulkar’s Retirement and Legacy

In November 2013, Sachin Tendulkar bid farewell to the sport, leaving behind a legacy that transcends the boundaries of cricket. Beyond the limits of the cricket field, Tendulkar’s influence continues to inspire generations of aspiring cricketers and fans alike.

Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif has stirred controversy by accusing skipper Rohit Sharma and head coach Rahul Dravid of meddling with the World Cup 2023 final pitch. His allegations have raised questions about the integrity of pitch preparation and its influence on match outcomes.

Mohammad Kaif’s Allegations

Kaif, who was present at the Narendra Modi Stadium during the final, claimed to have witnessed changes in the pitch over three days. He asserted that the Indian team management, including Rohit Sharma and Rahul Dravid, intervened to manipulate the pitch conditions to favor slow bowling.

See Also: Rohit wants Kohli, report claims amidst T20 World Cup squad speculations

Kaif’s Statements and Criticism

In an interview with The Lallantop, Kaif expressed disappointment over the pitch manipulation tactics employed by the Indian team management. He criticized the decision to alter the pitch excessively, attributing it to India’s defeat in the final.

Kaif said, “Emotions the. 2003 mein inse (Australia) hum haare the. Main waha 3 din tha. Rohit Sharma shaam ko aaye, Dravid dono shaam ko aaye. Pitch pe gaye, ghume kaisi pitch hai. Ye 3 din lagatar hua hai aur maine pitch ka rang badalte hue dekha hai. Cummins hai Starc hai, inke pass tezz gendbaazi hai, toh inko naa slow pitch do aur waha galti hui. 100%. Chahe log kitna bhi bole ki curator apna kaam karta hai, hum kuch nahi bolte, bakwaas hai. (Rahul Dravid and Rohit Sharma arrived in the evening to examine the field. They stood behind the pitch every hour for three days, and I witnessed the pitch turn a different color. Give them slow pitches because they have fast bowlers like Starc and Cummins. And that’s where they went wrong. People saying that the curator makes the pitch and no one has a say is just rubbish. This is the truth, even if people don’t want to believe it).

Host Country’s Influence on Pitch Preparation

Kaif acknowledged the host country’s prerogative to dictate pitch conditions but cautioned against excessive interference. While conceding that such practices are commonplace in cricket, Kaif emphasized balance and fair play in pitch preparation.

Kaif said, “You have to express just two sentences when you are moving across the field. Please don’t add water; just cut down on the grass. That is reality. And it should to be carried out. You’re at home playing. And we overindulged in it.”

Impact on the World Cup Final

The pitch alterations purportedly backfired on India as Australia emerged victorious in the final, chasing down a target of 240 runs. Despite early success, the Indian bowlers struggled to contain Travis Head, who played a pivotal role in Australia’s triumph.

Australia’s Victory and Indian Strategy

Despite India’s efforts to tailor the pitch to their advantage, Australia’s bowlers, particularly Pat Cummins, demonstrated resilience and adaptability. Cummins’ decision to bowl first in a final, despite conventional wisdom favoring batting first, proved instrumental in securing Australia’s victory.