INDvsAUS https://www.cricketwinner.com INDvsAUS Wed, 22 Jan 2025 07:57:08 GMT https://validator.w3.org/feed/docs/rss2.html https://github.com/jpmonette/feed en Copyright © 2024 Cricket Winner. All Rights Reserved. <![CDATA[Selfless Leadership: Rohit Sharma Prioritizes Team Over Self, Earns Gambhir's Praise]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/selfless-leadership-rohit-sharma-prioritizes-team-over-self-earns-gambhir-s-praise/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/selfless-leadership-rohit-sharma-prioritizes-team-over-self-earns-gambhir-s-praise/ Sun, 05 Jan 2025 10:01:19 GMT

"Rohit Sharma Took the Right Step for the Team": Gambhir Praises Indian Captain

Indian cricket team captain Rohit Sharma recently garnered praise for his leadership decisions during a challenging series against Australia. Former cricketer and current coach Gautam Gambhir lauded Sharma’s selflessness after he chose to sit out the playing XI in the final Test, prioritizing the team’s success over individual contributions.

Gambhir, addressing recent speculations and criticisms, called Sharma’s decision a “bold and team-centric move.” Speaking to the media, Gambhir said, “When a captain makes a decision with the team’s best interests in mind, it reflects true leadership. Rohit Sharma has shown that the team and country come first, setting an example for others to follow.”

Struggles with Form and a Tough Call

Rohit Sharma’s performance in the series had been underwhelming, managing just 31 runs across five innings. Recognizing his form struggles, Sharma decided to give opportunities to in-form players in the final Test in Sydney. This move, according to Gambhir, demonstrated maturity and accountability.

“Leadership isn’t just about scoring runs; it’s about making tough decisions. By stepping aside, Rohit ensured the team had the best possible chance of competing. It’s a commendable act that shows his commitment to Indian cricket,” Gambhir added.

ALSO READ:WTC Points Table Update: India Out After Sydney Defeat, Australia to Face South Africa in Final

Gambhir on Media Rumors and Player Futures

The series loss against Australia sparked rumors about potential discord within the Indian team and raised questions about the futures of senior players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Gambhir dismissed these speculations, urging media outlets to exercise caution in their reporting.

“I’ve always believed that a good team thrives on unity, especially during tough times. Speculating about internal issues does no good for the team’s morale,” Gambhir remarked. On the future of Sharma and Kohli, he said, “Both have shown resilience and passion throughout their careers. It’s not for me to decide their future, but I believe they have the hunger to continue contributing to Indian cricket.”

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<![CDATA[WTC Points Table Update: India Out After Sydney Defeat, Australia to Face South Africa in Final]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/wtc-points-table-update-india-out-after-sydney-defeat-australia-to-face-south-africa-in-final/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/wtc-points-table-update-india-out-after-sydney-defeat-australia-to-face-south-africa-in-final/ Sun, 05 Jan 2025 06:11:05 GMT

India's team felt no great happiness out of the ICC World Test Championship because they couldn't make it to the final. They ended their run in a disappointment, losing the fifth test to Australia in Sydney on Sunday. Australia kept the Border-Gavaskar Trophy by taking the series 3-1. For the first time in ten years, India had to watch the trophy go to someone else in this manner.

Australia won in Sydney and made it to the WTC final again. Now, they will have a match against South Africa at Lord's Cricket Ground, from July 11 to 15, 2025. They are preparing for an important game against South Africa. Beating India in the 2023 WTC final at The Oval with Pat Cummins as their leader shows Australia has been doing great during the time.

ALSO READ:Foreign Players Set for PSL 2025 Draft: Full List for Season 10

After beating India, Australia moved up in the WTC standings, going from a points percentage of 61.45% to 63.72%, ensuring they stayed in first place. Afterward, India's points percentage dropped to 50.00% from 52.77%, which put them in third place, even though they've lost eight times in the current WTC cycle. Especially after not doing well lately, India's chances to make it to their third straight WTC final are completely spoiled.This terrible series for them included getting swept 0-3 by New Zealand at their own location last November and facing six more losses right after that.

Australia and South Africa are going to have a strikingly large first neutral Test match at Lord's in the WTC final. When it comes to their past games in Test cricket, Australia boasts more wins with 54, while South Africa has won 26 times. The match at the famous ground is turning into a very exciting battle between these two top cricket teams.Everyone's excited because Australia is extremely strong and South Africa won't back down, making the end of the WTC very exciting. They're going to face off at Lord's and both want to seal a historic win, which means cricket fans everywhere should expect something very exciting.

Updated ICC World Test Championship Points Table

RankTeamMatches PlayedWins LossesDraws PointsPCT (%)
1South Africa (Q)117318866.67
2Australia (Q)17114213063.72
3India1998211450.00
4New Zealand147708148.21
5Sri Lanka115606045.45
6England221110111443.18
7Bangladesh (E)124804531.25
8Pakistan (E)114704030.30
9West Indies (E)112723224.24
  • (Q) - Qualified for the final
  • (E) - Eliminated from the final race
  • PCT - Points Percentage
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<![CDATA[WATCH: Pant’s Massive Six Forces Ground Staff to Use Ladder; Video Goes Viral]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/watch-pant-s-massive-six-forces-ground-staff-to-use-ladder-video-goes-viral/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/watch-pant-s-massive-six-forces-ground-staff-to-use-ladder-video-goes-viral/ Fri, 03 Jan 2025 05:58:20 GMT

In January 2025, at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) during the fifth Test match between India and Australia, there was an absurd moment that made everyone very happy. Rishabh Pant was batting in the 46th against Beau Webster, who was playing his first match, when he hit a very big hit that went over the boundary. The ball went flying deep into the stands, and it was both incredible and silly because the ground staff actually had to get a ladder to go obtain the ball back.

ALSO READ:Afghanistan's Playing XI Featuring Rashid Khan: Roles and Players Breakdown

Pant's hit was not only extremely strong but also really accurate.

The shot from Pant was so powerful and perfectly done, it clearly demonstrated how he's noticeably about attacking when he bats. All the people on social media were discussing it, saying how brave Pant is and how amazing he played. A few people even thought it was the best moment of the year.

Pant proved he's utterly tough and difficult, despite taking hits from Mitchell Starc and Scott Boland, he didn't quit. He faced some hard times during the season but what really shined was his determination and batting skills.

Pant repeated the action! A major hit he just smacked down has definitely stretched his record of exceptionally wonderful performances, really showing us he's not only any player in cricket he's seriously brave and very exciting to watch. By just performing his role on the field, he manages to pull all eyes towards him every time he plays.Moves like that simply show his style of playing is characterized by bravery.

Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul were dismissed for scores of 10 and 4 runs, respectively. Shubman Gill contributed 20 runs to the total, while Virat Kohli made 17 runs. With four wickets lost early, star batter Rishabh Pant has been working hard to steady the innings for his team.

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<![CDATA[India's XI for the 5th Test vs Australia: A Strategic Mix of Experience and Youth]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/india-s-xi-for-the-5th-test-vs-australia-a-strategic-mix-of-experience-and-youth/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/india-s-xi-for-the-5th-test-vs-australia-a-strategic-mix-of-experience-and-youth/ Thu, 02 Jan 2025 13:34:12 GMT

India's XI for the 5th Test vs Australia: A Balanced and Strategic Lineup

The Indian cricket team has unveiled its playing XI for the decisive 5th Test against Australia. This lineup demonstrates a calculated mix of experience and emerging talent, aiming to outwit Australia in a high-stakes encounter.

ALSO READ:[Watch] DC Opener Jake Fraser-McGurk's Frustration Grows After Yet Another Failure

India’s Playing XI

RolePlayers
BattersYashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Nitish Reddy
Wicket KeeperRishabh Pant (WK)
All-roundersWashington Sundar, Ravindra Jadeja
BowlersJasprit Bumrah, Prasidh Krishna, Mohammed Siraj

KL Rahul: The seasoned opener provides reliability and resilience at the top, crucial for setting a strong foundation.

Yashasvi Jaiswal: The young left-hander, known for his aggressive stroke play, offers a perfect counterbalance to Rahul.

Shubman Gill: At No. 3, Gill's flair and consistency will be key in stabilizing the innings.

Virat Kohli: The heart of India’s batting lineup, Kohli’s leadership and form in high-pressure situations remain invaluable.

Rishabh Pant: The explosive wicketkeeper-batsman is poised to play his natural attacking game and turn the tide when needed.

Ravindra Jadeja: A world-class all-rounder, Jadeja’s left-arm spin and batting skills add vital balance to the side.

Nitish Kumar: Known for his compact technique and adaptability, Kumar strengthens India’s middle order with dependable batting.

Washington Sundar: His all-round abilities, combining off-spin with lower-order resilience, make Sundar a critical component.

Prasidh Krishna: The tall pacer brings an element of surprise with his pace and bounce, suited for Australian conditions.

Jasprit Bumrah (C): The captain and pace spearhead, Bumrah’s leadership and skill will be central to India’s bowling attack.

Mohammed Siraj: Complementing Bumrah, Siraj’s energy and ability to move the ball add potency to the pace attack.

 

Strategic Takeaways

India’s choice to include Nitish Kumar reflects their focus on strengthening the batting lineup, ensuring depth in the middle order. Washington Sundar’s inclusion adds versatility, with his off-spin likely to come in handy on a wearing pitch.

The decision to play Prasidh Krishna instead of a second specialist spinner suggests a clear emphasis on exploiting pace and bounce, particularly against Australia’s top order.

Key Matchups to Watch

Jaiswal and Gill vs Starc and Cummins: India's young openers will be tested by Australia’s fiery pace duo.

Bumrah and Siraj vs Smith and Labuschagne: India’s pacers will aim to unsettle Australia’s backbone with early breakthroughs.

 

 

 

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<![CDATA[Beau Webster Makes Debut in Australia's Final XI for 5th Test]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/beau-webster-makes-debut-in-australia-s-final-xi-for-5th-test/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/beau-webster-makes-debut-in-australia-s-final-xi-for-5th-test/ Thu, 02 Jan 2025 09:04:45 GMT

Beau Webster Set to Step in for Mitchell Marsh in the 5th Test Against India

Starting January 3, 2025, the Sydney Cricket Ground is going to be extremely busy because Australia is getting ready to face off against India in the fifth and vitally key test. The team is bringing in a new man, Beau Webster, for his first test game ever, and he's taking over for Mitchell Marsh. This change is very big news.

Since Australia is ahead in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series with a 2-1 lead, they're excited and ready to snatch their first series win in India in more than ten years.

Why Mitchell Marsh Is Out

The selectors saw that Mitchell Marsh wasn't doing too well in the series, only scoring 73 runs and not doing much with his bowling. They think this is a good opportunity for Beau Webster to step in and display his abilities at the international level.

Pat Cummins, our captain, said Mitch Marsh is still vitally important for the team, especially when we are discussing the short games but he also mentioned that adding Webster to the team will make things better. And he made sure everyone knew this is not farewell for Marsh in test cricket at all.

ALSO READ:Pat Cummins Reveals Australia’s Strategy to Tackle Jasprit Bumrah in Sydney Test

Spotlight on Beau Webster

Beau Jacob Webster has been making waves in domestic cricket, which earned him this debut. His versatility is a huge asset, as he bats right-handed and can bowl both off-spin and medium pace.

Domestic Career Highlights

Webster achieved it in the 2023-24 Sheffield Shield season, making him the second individual ever to hit more than 900 runs and take 30 wickets in just one season. Playing for Tasmania in the local games, he's also been doing really good for the Melbourne Stars in the Bash league.

First-Class Career Stats

Matches: 93

Runs Scored: 5,297

Batting Average: 37.83

Centuries/Half-Centuries: 12/24

Wickets Taken: 148

Bowling Average: 37.39

Best Bowling Figures: 6/100

Webster's all-around skills and impressive form make him a perfect fit for this high-pressure match against India.

Australia's Squad for the 5th Test

Most of the squad remains unchanged, with Webster being the only newcomer. The confirmed playing XI is:

Sam Konstas, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Beau Webster, Alex Carey, Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland

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<![CDATA[Pat Cummins Reveals Australia’s Strategy to Tackle Jasprit Bumrah in Sydney Test]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/pat-cummins-reveals-australia-s-strategy-to-tackle-jasprit-bumrah-in-sydney-test/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/pat-cummins-reveals-australia-s-strategy-to-tackle-jasprit-bumrah-in-sydney-test/ Thu, 02 Jan 2025 07:48:28 GMT

India Looks to Draw Level as SCG Hosts the Final Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25

The important game, the fifth and final test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25, between India and Australia, begins Friday, January 3, at the famous Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). India's playing very seriously because Australia's currently ahead in the series. Winning this match would mean not simply leveling the series at 2-2, but it also keeps India in the running to make it to the World Test Championship (WTC) 2025 final.

Jasprit Bumrah is a very essential player for India when they're trying to win. Bumrah's the main bowler and has been doing great in the series, grasping 30 wickets in four Tests and having a really good average of 12.83. Bumrah also was the top bowler in Tests in 2024 because he grabbed 71 wickets in just 13 matches and his average was 14.92.

Pat Cummins on Tackling Jasprit Bumrah

At the pre-match press conference on January 2, Pat Cummins, the captain of the Australian team, discussed Jasprit Bumrah, and how Australia plans to deal with the Indian bowler in the upcoming skill. Cummins mentioned that Bumrah is doing well today, Bumrah is throwing the ball nicely right now. Bumrah is always tough. Hopefully, by the time I come in, late in the afternoon, he has bowled quite a bit, which might make it a bit easier for me but he is bowling well.

Cummins said Bumrah is tough to play against but he hopes Bumrah is sleepy from all the bowling when it's his turn to bat, which might make it a little simpler. Across the world, in various formats, I've faced him quite a lot, and he always makes things challenging. Cummins made it clear that Bumrah's very good at what he does.

However, he knows it's going to be tough because he has faced Bumrah many times around the world and knows firsthand the challenge he poses.Cummins said something amusing about how lucky he was in the last match because he was at the non-striker's end when Bumrah was bowling. Last game, being at the non-striker's end definitely gave me an edge, he said with a little smile.

ALSO READ:Kusal Perera’s Blazing Century: A Record-Breaking Show in Sri Lanka’s Consolation Win

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<![CDATA[Rohit's Place or Gill's Form: India’s Tough Call for Sydney Test]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/rohit-s-place-or-gill-s-form-india-s-tough-call-for-sydney-test/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/rohit-s-place-or-gill-s-form-india-s-tough-call-for-sydney-test/ Wed, 01 Jan 2025 17:46:17 GMT

India's chances of making it to the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final are almost gone, and the fifth Test, against Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground, is vitally important. Rohit Sharma, the team's captain, is at a major moment in his career today. Rohit Sharma's ability to make some tough calls to strengthen the group, especially after losing the Boxing Day Test by 184 runs.

The choice of players for the playing XI for the Sydney Test is going to cause many discussions.

Shubman Gill's Comeback

Team management had to explain their decision to Shubman Gill about why they didn't pick him for the Melbourne match. They did it to make sure the group was equal but considering his stats, it's a hard choice to ignore him. In 2024, Gill achieved up 866 runs, only sitting behind Yashasvi Jaiswal among Indian batters, placing him firmly as the second-best.

Gill really seems to have a strong argument to rejoin the team, despite being sidelined for that game.

ALSO READ:If You Play Good Cricket, You Don't Need PR: MS Dhoni's Wisdom on Social Media and Publicity

Rohit's Balancing Act

Now, Rohit really needs to think through how to include Gill in the team without messing up everything. Since the Sydney pitch usually helps spinners, having Washington Sundar team with Ravindra Jadeja appears like a sharp and informed move. But, if Rohit decides to leave out a spinner to make room for Gill, the team's bowling might not be as strong unless Yashasvi Jaiswal can actually do a decent job with his occasional leg-spin.

Dropping one of the quick bowlers, Mohammed Siraj who performed well in Sydney, or Akash Deep who isn't taking wickets easily, is another choice. But, making this change would mean the team's left with only two main quick bowlers. In a game they must win, that's a major risk.

Should Rohit Take a Step Back?

Rohit quitting could make space for Gill, and then KL Rahul, who can be trusted, could open again. In Rohit's last five games, he obtained just 31 runs, and in total, 155 runs in 14 games.

This kind of decision would demand significant leadership from Rohit, demonstrating his commitment to prioritizing the team over personal interests.

A True Test of Leadership

The Sydney Test is not only another game. It's really key for India because it could help them qualify for the World Test Championship final. Also, it's a major situation for looking at how good of a leader Rohit Sharma is. No matter what choices he chooses to make, like changing the plan of action or even giving something up himself, it's going to show what captain he is.This might change how things go for India in this vitally important match.

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<![CDATA[India and Australia Teams Join PM Albanese for New Year's Reception Before Sydney Test]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/india-and-australia-teams-join-pm-albanese-for-new-year-s-reception-before-sydney-test/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/india-and-australia-teams-join-pm-albanese-for-new-year-s-reception-before-sydney-test/ Wed, 01 Jan 2025 16:38:19 GMT

A Memorable New Year's Celebration: Indian and Australian Cricket Teams Attend Prime Minister's Party

As the cricketing world gears up for the final game of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy on Friday, the Indian and Australian teams took a brief respite from the action to attend a grand New Year's party hosted by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. Held at the picturesque Kirribilli House in Sydney on Wednesday, the celebration lasted for about 90 minutes, blending cricket, camaraderie, and humor.

At the event, Albanese showed up with his fiancée Jodie Haydon and had some fun by telling funny stories. He really couldn't help making jokes about Jasprit Bumrah, the Indian bowler who's been a strikingly large problem for the Aussie hitters, getting 30 wickets already in the series. Albanese is known to have a pretty sharp sense of humor, and he made sure to share a cheerful moment with the players while he was there.

The crowd thought it was very amusing when the Prime Minister joked that Bumrah was so proficient at cricket, that they may potentially have to make him bowl with his left hand, or only let him take one step before he threw. Everyone really enjoyed the enjoyable event the prime minister brought.

ALSO READ:Ex-India Coach Shastri Pushes for Two-Tier Test Format After MCG Classic

Sam Konstas' Big Moment

At the party, Sam Konstas had a great tim

e when he was able to snap a photo with Virat Kohli, his cricket idol. Everyone knows about Konstas lately because he's been performing well in Australian cricket, especially after scoring a century in the Prime Minister's XI game, and another marvelous 60 runs at the MCG. This was very important for him since there was a nervous moment between him and the legendary Kohli before.

Konstas is a bright light that everyone at the party was noticing.

During the series, there was an incident on the field between them, and because of it, Kohli got his match fee cut by 20% and also obtained a demerit point but it looks like all their hard feelings were gone at the party. Konstas' parents were even able to have a photo taken with Bumrah, which was wonderful, owing to it showed everyone was just there to enjoy themselves and celebrate the event.

Words of Wisdom from Team Leaders

Gautam Gambhir, the Indian head coach, took over for Rohit Sharma and spoke to everyone. First thing, he tipped his hat to Australia for playing so well and making things tough. Even though he didn't say much about how the series might end up, he was focused on India trying very hard to make sure the last test is really fun. Gambhir knows it's not easy playing in Australia, and he said as much.

Pat Cummins, the Australian captain, is extremely excited after the Melbourne Test match. Cummins thinks it was probably the most intense and dramatic game he's ever played, taking an entire five days full of struggle. Since Australia is leading the series 2-1, Cummins is eager to win the last match and keep the series trophy.

 

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<![CDATA[BCCI Selectors Deny Gambhir's Call for Pujara in Australia Series]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/bcci-selectors-deny-gambhir-s-call-for-pujara-in-australia-series/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/bcci-selectors-deny-gambhir-s-call-for-pujara-in-australia-series/ Wed, 01 Jan 2025 08:08:27 GMT

Cheteshwar Pujara: The Missing Piece in India's Border-Gavaskar Trophy Campaign

Reports have surfaced suggesting that Indian Men's Team Head Coach Gautam Gambhir recommended the inclusion of Cheteshwar Pujara for the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy. However, the BCCI Selectors declined his request during the team selection meeting prior to the tour. This decision has gained significance as India's batting performance in Australia this year has been underwhelming.

India's Batting Struggles in Australia

During the series, major names such as Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant, and Virat Kohli just couldn't make a mark like they usually do. Kohli did hit a century in his second turn during the first game but his game has been up and down, especially with getting out on balls outside off-stump which reminds everyone of when he used to struggle with that before.

This inconsistent hitting from them is a strikingly large reason why India hasn't been doing great in the series.

ALSO READ:India's 2025 Cricket Calendar: England Series, Champions Trophy, Asia Cup, and Australia Tour Fixtures

Pujara's Role and Strengths

Pujara is famous for wearing down bowlers and creating strong partnerships, which makes him a key player to steady the batting lineup. The team really misses having someone who can help make things steady between the top and middle players like he does, especially in the current series. It's a major issue that they're thinking about bringing Cheteshwar Pujara back into the group because he's great at holding an innings together with his top-notch defensive skills.

Pujara's Past Performances in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy

2018-19 Series in Australia

Pujara was a total leader in the 2018-19 Border-Gavaskar Trophy and you notice it. He obtained 521 runs in just seven innings over four matches, which had everyone talking. He obtained three centuries and also scored fifty runs, boasting an average of 74.42. Among his best performances were:

A marathon 193 in the third Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground, which consumed 373 balls and ensured a draw.

A gritty 123 in the first match.

A remarkable 106 during the Boxing Day Test at the MCG.

2020-21 Series in Australia

During the 2020-21 series, Pujara hit a total of 271 runs. The Brisbane Gabba test was an important game, where his score of 56 from 211 balls showed how tough and gritty he could be, playing a major role in India's key win by staying strong against constant, very fast bowling.

Pujara's Test Career in Numbers

Pujara is a really solid and reliable batsman in Test cricket, having played 103 matches. He's scored 7,195 runs from 174 innings, which averages out to 44 runs every game he plays. Among those runs, he's hit 19 hundreds and 34 fifties, with his top score being a very high 206 runs without getting out against England. His track record seriously shows how valuable he is on the team.

India's Struggles in the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy

Today, India is losing 2-1 in the series, and they are having a hard time with batting. Even though they tried putting Shubman Gill and Rohit Sharma in key roles, both of them didn't manage to do well consistently. The match in Brisbane that ended in a draw really showed how the middle-order can't hold together and make the most of the chances they get.

Gambhir's Concerns and Australian Bowlers' Perspective

Gambhir's very upset because the batting's been awful for a long time and he told the team how bad it was. He was very upset that the players were apparently concentrated on demonstrating their own skills instead of playing as a team. Gambhir kept saying they must hold to the plan they agreed on before the meeting, and not only make content as they go.

He made it extremely unmistakeable that working together is significantly more important than trying to be a solo star.

Josh Hazlewood, the Australian bowler, was very happy that Pujara wouldn't be playing. Hazlewood really meant exactly what he said, that Pujara had a major effect because of how he could just stay at the crease forever, make the bowlers tired, and was always good when playing in Australia. He is someone who bats time and makes you earn his wicket every time, is actually how Hazlewood put it, showing that he really thought Pujara mattered a lot for India winning.

Hazlewood's comments before the series really shone a light on how crucial Pujara was.

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<![CDATA[Gavaskar Backs Nitish Reddy Over Hardik Pandya as a Better Test Cricketer]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/gavaskar-backs-nitish-reddy-over-hardik-pandya-as-a-better-test-cricketer/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/gavaskar-backs-nitish-reddy-over-hardik-pandya-as-a-better-test-cricketer/ Tue, 31 Dec 2024 16:37:38 GMT

Nitish Reddy Is Better Than Hardik Pandya in Tests": Gavaskar's Verdict

In cricket, people often compare players who do similar things, especially when new stars start doing very good in important matches this is happening with Nitish Kumar Reddy, a 21-year-old Indian all-rounder. Sunil Gavaskar, a cricket legend and former Indian team captain, has said some very wonderful things about him. Gavaskar mentioned that when you see how Nitish Reddy is doing as a Test batter and compare it to what Hardik Pandya was like at a similar point, Nitish might actually be doing better.

Reddy's Rise in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy

Even though Nitish Reddy hasn't played a lot of first-class cricket, he was given an opportunity to play for India in their long game, and he did very well. In the current Border-Gavaskar Trophy series playing against Australia, he's been clearly seen as one of India's top players.

Reddy, being extremely mature for his age, scored 114 runs which was really great for his first ever test century. This happened at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Boxing Day. He wasn't alone, though he and Washington Sundar together made a solid 127 runs, pushing India to a strong spot in the game.

Deep into the series, Reddy has been performing well with 294 runs from four games, and that's got him sitting as the second top scorer for India, right behind Yashasvi Jaiswal. Cricket experts and fans are extremely impressed by how he can handle the tough situations and still score important runs under all that pressure.

ALSO READ:Ayush Mhatre Shatters Yashasvi Jaiswal’s List A World Record with Brilliant Knock in Vijay Hazare Trophy

Gavaskar's High Praise

Sunil Gavaskar really praised Nitish Reddy's game. Gavaskar said that when you put Reddy's skills currently facing someone first-rate, like Hardik Pandya, Reddy's manner of batting just shines through the cricket legend had a lot of notably positive remarks to say regarding how Reddy plays.

Gavaskar said Reddy is a significantly better batter now than Pandya was at that time. He also mentioned that it's not only just regarding how many runs Reddy is scoring--but how he's doing it. According to Gavaskar, Reddy has a great way of thinking for playing long games, which you don't see much in young players today. ">Gavaskar pointed out that Reddy's bowling isn't perfect yet--but it's improving.

Acknowledgment for the Selection Committee

Really good decision to pick Reddy, even though he hasn't played much first-class cricket, proved to be wonderful. Gavaskar praised the Indian selection committee, with Ajit Agarkar at the helm, for their ability to see this potential in him ahead of time.

"It's a credit to Ajit Agarkar and his fellow selectors to have seen enough to pitchfork him into the Test arena," Gavaskar noted. "This series could very well mark the beginning of a stellar Test career for Reddy."

The Hardik Pandya Comparison

Hardik Pandya has excellent batting and bowling skills in white-ball cricket for India but he hasn't done as well in Test matches. Even though he's shown he can play the longer version of the game, he hasn't been able to keep up his performance and has missed a lot of Tests because he's been injured. Pandya is a major piece of India's white-ball teams because of his powerful hitting and his skill in getting the ball to seam.

At least when it comes to hitting, Reddy seems to be significantly better cut out for Test cricket. His skill to remain for long innings and change his game depending on what is going on has made people compare him to a portion of the greatest Test all-rounders ever.

Bowling: The Area for Improvement

Everyone's been conversing regarding Reddy's hitting skills but he still needs to improve his abilities in bowling. Gavaskar mentioned, saying, If he can improve his bowling, he might just turn into the all-rounder for tests that India has been on the lookout for.

Reddy's medium-pace bowling has shown promise, but he has yet to make a significant impact with the ball. However, at just 21 years of age, time is on his side to develop this aspect of his game.

A Promising Future

Reddy's excellent start has put India in a good spot in the current series and people are saying this might (simply) be the start of a long win streak for him in Test cricket. Major cricket names, even Sunil Gavaskar, think Reddy is doing very well.

As Indian cricket continues to evolve, players like Reddy are proving that the pipeline of talent remains strong, ensuring that the team remains competitive across formats.

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