Test https://www.cricketwinner.com Test Sun, 22 Dec 2024 10:00:13 GMT https://validator.w3.org/feed/docs/rss2.html https://github.com/jpmonette/feed en Copyright © 2024 Cricket Winner. All Rights Reserved. <![CDATA[Social Media Drama After Day 3 of India vs Australia 3rd Test: Criticism, Sarcasm, and Rising Frustration]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/social-media-drama-after-day-3-of-india-vs-australia-3rd-test-criticism-sarcasm-and-rising-frustration/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/social-media-drama-after-day-3-of-india-vs-australia-3rd-test-criticism-sarcasm-and-rising-frustration/ Mon, 16 Dec 2024 11:54:38 GMT

Day 3 of the 3rd Test match between India and Australia in Brisbane not only saw a challenging contest on the field but also ignited a wave of harsh criticism and sarcastic commentary on social media. As India faced struggles, the online platforms were flooded with debates, jabs, and calls for accountability. Here’s a breakdown of the key talking points making the rounds:

Virat Kohli’s Shot Selection Sparks Debate

Virat Kohli’s dismissal, caught behind after attempting a drive on a fifth-stump line ball, quickly became a hot topic on social media. Fans criticized his shot selection as reckless and unnecessary, questioning his ability to leave balls outside the off-stump. The dismissal sparked comparisons to Sachin Tendulkar’s famous innings in the 2003–04 Sydney Test, where Tendulkar showed the discipline to avoid risky shots like the cover drive. Fans even suggested watching his idol’s videos to learn how to avoid such dismissals, as Kohli has fallen to similar shots multiple times.

Rohit Sharma Faces Leadership Questions

Rohit Sharma has been in the spotlight, with social media buzzing with questions about his leadership. Critics have been questioning his abilities, especially after the team’s struggles. Rohit’s batting form is also a concern, although he remains not out at the end of Day 3. People are waiting for the next opportunity to either praise him or criticize him, depending on his performance on Day 4. His leadership has become a frequent topic of debate, with fans eager to see if he can lead India to a comeback.

Rain Sarcasm: India’s “Savior”

With rain interruptions dominating Day 3, social media users sarcastically suggested that only the weather could save India from a certain defeat. Jokes and memes circulated, mocking the team’s inability to counter Australia’s dominance and suggesting that rain was their only hope. This sentiment reflected the frustration of fans who, while hopeful, questioned India’s chances of winning without external factors coming into play.

Young Players Criticized

Young players like Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Rishabh Pant found themselves in the line of fire after their disappointing performances. Gill was criticized for his inconsistent batting, with many questioning his place in the team due to his relatively low batting average. Jaiswal, who was dismissed after just the second ball of the innings, found himself the target of mocking comments. This was especially pointed given his bold remarks during the Perth Test, where, after his impressive knock, he had taunted Australian bowler Mitchell Starc by saying, "You're too slow." Fast forward to the second Test in Adelaide, where Jaiswal was dismissed for a duck off the very first ball of the innings, and then again in this match, dismissed on just the second ball. Fans were quick to mock him, questioning his overconfidence and how quickly things turned around after his earlier comments to Starc. Pant, too, came under criticism after failing in five consecutive innings.

 

India has a difficult task ahead in the final days of the 3rd Test, but a comeback is within reach. Fans must stay supportive, offering both constructive feedback and encouragement as the team battles to recover.

 

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<![CDATA[BCB to launch women's first-class tournament with the hope of playing Test cricket]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/bcb-to-launch-women-s-first-class-tournament-with-the-hope-of-playing-test-cricket/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/bcb-to-launch-women-s-first-class-tournament-with-the-hope-of-playing-test-cricket/ Fri, 13 Dec 2024 07:08:13 GMT

The Bangladesh cricket board is all set to launch a first-class competition for women from December 21 in Rajshahi to keep the hope alive for the women's team's Test debut. The Women's Bangladesh Cricket League (WBCL) will include four teams - South, North, East and Central, who will take on each other in four rounds of three-day matches as well.

Four teams will feature in the tournament

South will play against East while Central will take on North in the opening round, scheduled at two venues in Rajshahi as well. In the second round of games slated to take place from December 26-28, South will play against North while Central will be placed East. The other two rounds will take place following the return of the Bangladesh women's team from West Indies as well.

However, Bangladesh women were granted Test status alongside Afghanistan and Zimbabwe in 2021 after the International Cricket Council (ICC) decided to give all their full-member Women's teams Test and ODI status permanently as well. Meanwhile, the Bangladesh women's team is yet to play Tests as they play only white-ball cricket.

BCB's women's wing head Habibul Bashar said to Cricbuzz on Thursday (December 12) that they are aiming to launch the three-day competition for women with the hope of Test cricket.

SEE ALSO: Sanjiv Goenka breaks his silence, calls former LSG captain "shareef"

"I think our girls need to adapt with three day cricket" - Habibul Bashar

"If we want to play Tests, we need to play first-class matches and so you can say this is our first step towards that direction," said Habibul.

However, the maiden WBCL was played in 2023 as a two-day tournament but this time, the have decided to see how they perform in a three-day match as well.

"I think our girls need to adapt with three day cricket if they want to play longer version at international level and if they can continue to develop in this format, surely we will be able to compete in Test cricket. But for that we need to prepare ourselves and this WBCL will certainly help us to prepare," Habibul said.

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<![CDATA[Pant leads gritty fightback; Where's the wall? Fans ask]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/pant-leads-gritty-fightback-where-s-the-wall-fans-ask/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/pant-leads-gritty-fightback-where-s-the-wall-fans-ask/ Fri, 22 Nov 2024 07:01:07 GMT

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 inch 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

 

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<![CDATA[Watch: Hazlewood strikes big as Kohli falls early in Perth]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/hazlewood-strikes-big-as-kohli-falls-early-in-perth/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/hazlewood-strikes-big-as-kohli-falls-early-in-perth/ Fri, 22 Nov 2024 04:15:30 GMT

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.

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.

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<![CDATA[Kohli’s road to redemption: Intense training ahead of Border-Gavaskar Trophy]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/kohli-s-road-to-redemption-intense-training-ahead-of-border-gavaskar-trophy/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/kohli-s-road-to-redemption-intense-training-ahead-of-border-gavaskar-trophy/ Thu, 21 Nov 2024 16:54:50 GMT

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.

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<![CDATA[Ashwin set for Test debut in Perth after 5 tours]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/ashwin-set-for-test-debut-in-perth-after-5-tours/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/ashwin-set-for-test-debut-in-perth-after-5-tours/ Thu, 21 Nov 2024 09:15:17 GMT

Ravichandran Ashwin, India’s record-breaking premier off-spinner, is all set to play his first-ever Test match at Perth’s Optus Stadium on Friday, November 22. This Test marks Ashwin’s fifth tour of Australia, and the 38-year-old is ready to showcase his skills on Australian soil, a place where his opportunities have often been limited in the past.

For the first time, Ashwin will be part of India's lineup for the Perth Test, with the team opting for him as the sole spinner. He replaces Ravindra Jadeja, who has often been India’s first-choice spinner outside the subcontinent in the last few years. In this high-stakes game, Ashwin’s inclusion signals a shift in the team management’s approach towards spin bowling, with the veteran expected to lead the charge.

Ashwin's journey and role in the Perth Test

Despite his impressive track record in Indian conditions, Ashwin has had a challenging time on Australian pitches. Across 10 Tests in Australia, he averages 42.15 with 39 wickets. However, his role in India’s recent Test series wins cannot be overlooked. Ashwin’s contribution, especially on the last two Australian tours, played a key role in India’s success, and this Test in Perth provides him with the perfect opportunity to prove his mettle once again.

This will be Ashwin’s first appearance on the Perth pitch, and his involvement comes after a long-standing trend of India opting for four-prong pace attacks in Australia. Historically, Ashwin was overlooked in favour of pacers, but with India’s change in strategy, the off-spinner will now be the lone spinner on what is likely to be a pace-friendly pitch. His selection has also been a signal of faith from the team management in Ashwin’s abilities, as he prepares to take on the challenge on this difficult surface.

A shift in India’s strategy: Ashwin and Nitish Kumar Reddy

Ashwin’s inclusion also comes with an interesting twist—Nitish Kumar Reddy, the seam-bowling all-rounder, is set to make his debut as India’s latest Test cricketer. This marks a change in India’s approach, with both Reddy and Ashwin expected to provide key contributions with the ball and bat. The 38-year-old will be looking to make the most of this opportunity to cement his place as a core member of India’s Test squad.

Ashwin’s absence from previous Australian tours, including the 2018 series when India played their first-ever Test at the Optus Stadium, left a gap that pacers struggled to fill. The team had opted for a fourth fast bowler, with Umesh Yadav unable to provide the control needed on the surface. In the end, part-time off-spin from Hanuma Vihari proved crucial during that series. However, Ashwin's inclusion now offers India the chance to strengthen their bowling attack with a world-class spinner in foreign conditions.

It will be interesting to see how Ashwin adapts to the conditions, particularly under the leadership of Jasprit Bumrah, marking the first time in his career that Ashwin will play under a bowling captain. This shift in leadership dynamics might bring a fresh perspective to Ashwin’s approach, as he partners with Bumrah in a game that could determine India’s success in this crucial Test series.

Ashwin's selection for this Test is not just a matter of strategy; it represents a new phase in his international career, where he gets another opportunity to prove that he belongs on the world’s biggest stage. His past experiences and resilience in the face of challenges will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in the outcome of this match.

See Also: “Pacers leading teams should happen more”: Pat Cummins

As Ashwin prepares for his Perth Test debut, all eyes will be on him to see how he tackles the challenge. With his extensive experience and the backing of the team management, this could be the turning point in his career in Australia. India’s decision to trust Ashwin as their lead spinner in this Test marks a bold move, and it’s one that could have a significant impact on the team’s chances of victory in this crucial series.

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<![CDATA[5 Indian bowlers with most wickets against Australia in Test]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-stats/5-indian-bowlers-with-most-wickets-against-australia-in-test/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-stats/5-indian-bowlers-with-most-wickets-against-australia-in-test/ Thu, 21 Nov 2024 05:26:34 GMT

The rivalry between India and Australia in Test cricket is one of the most celebrated contests in the sport. With a history dating back to 1947-48, this clash has produced unforgettable matches, marked by exceptional performances from legendary players. While batsmen often take the spotlight, bowlers play an equally critical role in securing victories in the longest format of the game.

Indian bowlers, both spinners and pacers, have risen to the challenge against Australia, delivering spellbinding performances that have etched their names in cricketing history. Here’s a look at the top five Indian bowlers with the most wickets against Australia in Test cricket.

5. Kapil Dev – 79 wickets

India’s first World Cup-winning captain, Kapil Dev, was a masterful all-rounder who thrived against Australia. In 20 Tests between 1979 and 1992, Kapil claimed 79 wickets at an impressive average of 25.35. His fiery spell of 8/106 in Adelaide during the 1985-86 series remains etched in memory, as he dismantled a strong Australian batting lineup led by Allan Border.

4. Ravindra Jadeja – 89 wickets

A modern-day maestro, Ravindra Jadeja has emerged as a consistent performer against Australia. In 17 Tests, Jadeja has taken 89 wickets at an average of 18.89, showcasing his ability to excel in both Indian and Australian conditions. His 7/42 at Delhi’s Arun Jaitley Stadium in 2023 stands out as one of the most dominant spells in recent history, helping India secure a resounding victory.

3. Harbhajan Singh – 95 wickets
Harbhajan Singh’s magical spells against Australia earned him the nickname "The Turbanator." In 18 Tests, he picked 95 wickets, highlighted by his stunning performance in the 2001 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. With 32 wickets in three matches, including a memorable hat-trick at Kolkata, Harbhajan proved to be Australia’s nemesis time and again. His best figures of 8/84 underline his dominance over the mighty Aussies.

2. Anil Kumble – 111 wickets

Anil Kumble, India’s highest wicket-taker in Tests, was a force to be reckoned with against Australia. Over 20 matches, he scalped 111 wickets, including 10 five-wicket hauls. Kumble’s precision and ability to exploit spin-friendly conditions made him Australia’s biggest challenge. His iconic 8/141 at the Sydney Cricket Ground during the 2003-04 tour remains one of the finest spells by an Indian bowler Down Under.

1. Ravichandran Ashwin – 114 wickets

Sitting at the top of the list is Ravichandran Ashwin, who has taken 114 wickets in 22 Tests against Australia. Known for his tactical brilliance and versatility, Ashwin’s standout performance came in Chennai in 2013, where he recorded figures of 7/103 and 5/95. With an impressive mix of spin variations, Ashwin continues to trouble Australian batters both at home and away, cementing his legacy as one of India’s finest.

India’s bowlers have played a pivotal role in scripting historic victories against Australia. From Kapil Dev’s fiery pace to Ashwin’s guileful spin, these legends have consistently delivered match-winning performances. Their ability to adapt to vastly different conditions in India and Australia has made the rivalry thrilling to watch.

See Also: The Future of KL Rahul: Opportunities and Challenges

As India and Australia continue to produce epic battles on the field, the legacy of these iconic bowlers serves as a reminder of the importance of taking 20 wickets to win a Test match. With each series, new stars emerge, but the contributions of these stalwarts will forever remain an integral part of this storied rivalry.

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<![CDATA[Top 5 Indian batters with most runs against Australia in Test]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-stats/top-5-indian-batters-with-most-runs-against-australia-in-test/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-stats/top-5-indian-batters-with-most-runs-against-australia-in-test/ Wed, 20 Nov 2024 04:43:52 GMT

India vs. Australia has been one of the most exciting rivalries in cricket history, delivering unforgettable matches since their first encounter in 1947-48. The contrasting playing conditions in the two countries add a layer of intrigue, making every series unique. Over the decades, many Indian batters have risen to the challenge, dominating Australian bowlers at home and away.

Here’s a look at the top five Indian batters who have scored the most runs against Australia in Test cricket.

5. Virat Kohli – 2042 Runs

Former Indian captain Virat Kohli has an outstanding record against Australia across formats. In Test cricket, he ranks fifth among Indians with the most runs against the Aussies.

In 25 matches, Kohli has amassed 2042 runs at an average of 47.48, including eight centuries (the second-most by an Indian vs. Australia) and five half-centuries. His highest score of 186 reflects his dominance with the bat. Kohli's leadership was historic; under him, India secured their first-ever Test series victory in Australia in 2018-19.

4. Cheteshwar Pujara – 2074 Runs

Known for his grit and resilience, Cheteshwar Pujara has been a thorn in Australia’s side. Between 2010 and 2023, Pujara played 25 Tests against them, scoring 2074 runs at an average of 49.38.

Pujara was instrumental in India’s victories in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) series, emerging as the highest scorer in 2016-17 and 2018-19, and the second-highest in 2020-21. His tally includes five centuries and 11 half-centuries, proving his consistency across challenging conditions.

3. Rahul Dravid – 2143 Runs

Rahul Dravid, often referred to as The Wall, was a dependable batter for India in tough situations. Against Australia, he played 32 Tests between 1996 and 2012, scoring 2143 runs at an average of 39.68.

Dravid's contributions included two centuries and 13 half-centuries. His memorable 233 at Adelaide in 2003, and his partnership with VVS Laxman at Eden Gardens in 2001, underline his significance in India’s Test cricket history.

2. VVS Laxman – 2434 Runs

VVS Laxman had a special connection with playing against Australia, producing some of his career-best performances. He scored 2434 runs in 29 Tests between 1998 and 2012 at an impressive average of 49.67.

His innings of 281 at Eden Gardens in 2001 remains one of the greatest Test knocks of all time, helping India achieve a famous comeback win. Laxman’s six centuries and 12 half-centuries against Australia further highlight his ability to perform under pressure.

See Also: Watch: Travis Head looks set to bring back WC 2023 nightmare

1. Sachin Tendulkar – 3630 Runs

The Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar tops the list with 3630 runs against Australia, the most by any Indian and second-most overall in Test cricket. Tendulkar played 39 Tests against Australia from 1991 to 2013, averaging 55 with 11 centuries and 16 half-centuries.

His innings of 241 not out in Sydney in 2004 showcased his mastery over the Australian bowlers. Tendulkar’s consistency and ability to rise to the occasion made him the Aussies’ biggest challenge for over two decades.

The India-Australia rivalry in Test cricket is more than just a contest—it’s a battle of grit, skill, and legacy. These five batters have left an indelible mark on this storied competition, inspiring generations of cricketers and fans alike.

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<![CDATA[Gill’s injury and Rohit’s absence leave India in a tight spot for Perth Test]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/gills-injury-and-rohits-absence-leave-india-in-a-tight-spot-for-perth-test/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/gills-injury-and-rohits-absence-leave-india-in-a-tight-spot-for-perth-test/ Sat, 16 Nov 2024 10:17:38 GMT

India’s preparations for the first Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Perth suffered a significant blow as Shubman Gill sustained an injury to his left hand during a simulated match at the WACA. Gill, fielding in the slips on the second day, was forced off the field after the incident and did not return for the rest of the session.

While the severity of the injury is yet to be assessed, concerns loom over Gill’s availability for the crucial first Test, which begins on November 22 at the Optus Stadium. This development adds further uncertainty to India’s top-order lineup, already in flux with captain Rohit Sharma potentially unavailable for the game due to personal commitments.

A growing batting dilemma

Gill’s versatility has made him a key part of India’s plans, with the management considering him both as a No. 3 batter and an opening option alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal. However, with Rohit Sharma absent owing to the birth of his second child, India might need Gill at the top of the order.

Rohit’s wife, Ritika Sajdeh, gave birth to their second child on Friday, and the Indian captain had informed selectors of his likely unavailability for the Perth Test. There was speculation that Rohit might travel to Australia early to train with the team before returning for the child’s birth, but he ultimately chose to remain in India.

Compounding the issue, another opening option, KL Rahul, sustained an elbow injury on the first day of the training match and has not participated in subsequent sessions. Rahul was hit by a short ball and did not bat or take the field on Saturday, leaving his fitness in question.

See Also: Watch: Surya Kumar Yadav's humble gesture wins hearts on and off the field

India’s backup plans and the road ahead

With injuries piling up, Abhimanyu Easwaran remains India’s only fully fit opening option in the squad. However, Easwaran’s inexperience at the international level makes him a gamble for the high-stakes Border-Gavaskar opener.

Gill, who batted twice on the first day of the simulation match, showcased his potential by scoring an unbeaten 42 in his second innings after managing 28 in the first. His absence would leave a significant void in India’s batting order, particularly given their recent struggles.

India are already reeling from a 3-0 whitewash in their T20I series against New Zealand, and the batting lineup’s fragility was a glaring issue. Without their captain and with Gill’s fitness uncertain, India’s top order faces a stern test against Australia’s pace-heavy attack in Perth.

The waiting game

As the Indian camp anxiously awaits updates on Gill’s condition, fans and selectors alike will hope for good news. Gill’s injury scare has highlighted the fragility of India’s squad depth, especially in overseas conditions where resilience and experience are crucial.

With less than a week to go before the series opener, India’s management faces tough decisions. Will Gill recover in time? Can Rohit Sharma make a last-minute appearance to stabilize the lineup? And will KL Rahul regain fitness?

For now, all eyes are on the medical updates and last-minute adjustments that could determine India’s fate in the series opener of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

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<![CDATA["NZ walo agar himmat hein to Ranji trophy me bhid lenaa" fans share after Sarfaraz's performance]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/nz-walo-agar-himmat-hein-to-ranji-trophy-me-bhid-lenaa-fans-share-after-sarfarazs-performance/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/nz-walo-agar-himmat-hein-to-ranji-trophy-me-bhid-lenaa-fans-share-after-sarfarazs-performance/ Sun, 03 Nov 2024 06:50:55 GMT

India’s batting lineup faltered against a resilient New Zealand spin attack on Day 3 of the third Test, with Sarfaraz Khan’s form coming under scrutiny after another underwhelming performance. India, now at 81/6, faces an uphill task to reach their target as Rishabh Pant leads a one-man rescue effort at the Wankhede Stadium.

Sarfaraz Khan’s struggles in spotlight as India’s top order collapses

Sarfaraz Khan’s disappointing scores have added fuel to fan concerns over his place in India’s Test lineup. Selected over seasoned batters like Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul, Sarfaraz was expected to bring stability, especially on pitches favoring spinners. However, his recent scores of 11, 9, 0, and 1 across the last two Tests have sparked debate over his inclusion, particularly as he struggled against New Zealand’s spin attack in both innings.

Fans have voiced disappointment, pointing to Sarfaraz’s inability to handle turning tracks—a skillset they feel Iyer, known for his resilience on challenging pitches, could have provided. Critics argue that his inclusion, alongside captain Rohit Sharma, who’s been questioned for his own struggles, reflects an imbalance in selection that leaves India vulnerable on spin-friendly wickets. With India now six down and still trailing in their run chase, Pant’s fight alone may not be enough to overturn this shaky position.

See Also: Ishan Kishan lands in controversy as India A accused of ball-tampering against Australia A

Pant’s grit and New Zealand’s spin dominance

Amid India’s collapse, Rishabh Pant has shown determination, fighting hard to stabilize the innings. Pant’s aggression against the New Zealand spinners kept the scoreboard ticking, with crucial boundaries keeping India’s hopes alive. His spirited 55 off 56 deliveries brought some relief to the team, but with little support from the other end, India remains in a challenging position. As Washington Sundar joins him after lunch, fans are hoping the pair can pull off a miracle chase.

New Zealand’s spinners, particularly Ajaz Patel, have been impressive, exploiting India’s vulnerabilities on the turning Wankhede pitch. Patel, who broke the partnership by removing Ravindra Jadeja for just six runs, has been instrumental in breaking India’s top order, and the Black Caps’ spinners continue to keep India under constant pressure. In the early sessions, Patel and Rachin Ravindra dismissed Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sarfaraz Khan, putting the visiting team on the back foot early on.

As Day 3 continues, India’s chances rest heavily on Pant’s shoulders. If Pant and Sundar can build a resilient stand, India may still have a fighting chance, but any further wickets could put New Zealand firmly in command and expose India’s vulnerability to quality spin—a factor that has haunted their performance in this series.

 

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