Cricket

The highly anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy between Australia and India kicks off on Friday at Perth Stadium, with all eyes on the pitch prepared by 27-year-old curator Isaac McDonald. Known for producing some of the fastest and bounciest surfaces in world cricket, the Perth pitch is expected to challenge both batters and bowlers alike.McDonald has been carefully monitoring the conditions, especially with a forecast of up to 10mm of rain over the next few days. He is balancing the need to retain enough moisture to prevent excessive cracking with the risk of overwatering if more rain than expected arrives."In terms of pace and bounce, that [ODI] pitch was really good," McDonald said, referencing the recent ODI between Australia and Pakistan, where the surface provided explosive bounce but resulted in a low-scoring match with Australia bowled out for 140. "The Pakistan attack was quite skiddy, but when guys like [Australia's] Lance Morris and Spencer Johnson were really banging it into the wicket — not so much bowling short balls but hitting the surface a bit harder — that's when it was really coming through."McDonald believes the Test pitch will exhibit similar characteristics, explaining that moisture readings from the preparation process align closely with those from the ODI. "So far, I've done a few tests on the [Test] wicket's moisture content readings, and we're about similar," he noted. "So it's just whether or not the weather wants to play its part and I can hold it there or have to add a bit more moisture."The young curator admitted to feeling the pressure of his high-profile role but also expressed pride in preparing what is regarded as the fastest track in world cricket. "The hour before the first ball, it's horrible," McDonald confessed. "You just want it to start, to make sure it's all good and the ball gets through to the 'keeper nicely and the batters are playing some strokes. Then I can relax and start to enjoy the spectacle of what the Test match actually is."Despite his nerves, McDonald views them as a sign of his dedication to his craft. "I do get quite nervous, but I guess that means it matters because I care about the success of the game and about the facility as a whole. So maybe if I didn't get nervous, it might be a bad thing," he added with a smile.Fans and players alike will hope the Perth pitch lives up to its reputation, promising a thrilling contest between the world’s top two Test sides in the opening act of this prestigious series.

Indian cricket star Virat Kohli's recent social media post has sparked concerns among fans ahead of the upcoming Test series against Australia. Kohli, who has been struggling for form in recent months, posted a cryptic message on social media that left many puzzled.In the post, Kohli reflected on the 10-year anniversary of his apparel brand, Wrogn. However, the wording of the post raised questions about his future in cricket. "Looking back, we've always been a bit different. We never fitted into any box they tried putting us in. Two misfits, who just clicked," Kohli wrote.The post continued, "We've changed over the years, but always done things our way. Some called us crazy; others didn't get it." Kohli's words have led to speculation that he may be considering retirement or a break from cricket.However, Kohli's post also expressed a sense of resilience and determination. "But honestly? We didn't care. We were busy figuring out who we are. Ten years of ups and downs, and even the pandemic couldn't shake us," he wrote.Kohli's post has been met with mixed reactions from fans. Some have expressed concern about his future in cricket, while others have praised him for his honesty and vulnerability.Ahead of the first Test against Australia, former Australian captain Ricky Ponting hailed Kohli as a "superstar" of the game. "He's passionate about the way that he plays. He's passionate about his team. He wants to win and he plays with his heart on his sleeve," Ponting said.It remains to be seen whether Kohli's social media post is a sign of things to come. However, one thing is for sure: the Indian star remains one of the most talked-about and polarizing figures in world cricket.

Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood has expressed his relief at not having to bowl to veteran Indian batter Cheteshwar Pujara in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Pujara has been a thorn in Australia's side in recent years, amassing 792 runs at an average of 56.57 in his last two Test series Down Under."I'm pretty happy that Puj isn't here (smiles)," Hazlewood said to reporters ahead of the opening Test in Perth. "He's obviously one that bats time, makes you really earn his wicket every time, has done really well in Australia on all these tours."Pujara's absence is a significant boost for Australia, who have struggled to dismiss him in the past. In the 2018-19 series, he scored three centuries and averaged 74.42, while in the 2020-21 tour, he scored 271 runs with three half-centuries.Hazlewood also acknowledged the depth of India's batting lineup, despite Pujara's absence. "There's always young, fresh guys coming into the Indian team that they're under so much pressure to perform in the Indian team with with so many guys nipping at their heels all the time," he said. "Whoever they pick in that XI, they're unbelievable players. It doesn't really matter who they pick, they're all great players."Another challenge for India going into the first Test is the absence of Shubman Gill, who fractured his left thumb during a match simulation over the weekend. Gill is ruled out of the first Test, and his availability for the rest of the series is uncertain."Anytime you disrupt the top-six it's a bit of an issue," Hazlewood said. "But as I said the amount of talent in the Indian squad is quite unbelievable, the depth is phenomenal, better than any other country in the world. So whoever comes in has earned their stripes and no doubt will do well."

Team India's bowling coach, Morne Morkel, has provided an encouraging update on the fitness of Shubman Gill ahead of the highly anticipated first Test against Australia in Perth, commencing on November 22. Gill sustained a left-hand injury while fielding in the slips during the intra-squad match and was unable to return to the field on the second day.Morkel expressed optimism about Gill's recovery, stating, "Shubman is improving on a day-by-day basis. We will make a decision on the morning of the Test. He played well in the match simulation during the build-up, so fingers crossed."In the simulation match, Gill scored 28 in the first innings before being caught at gully off Navdeep Saini's delivery. He later returned to bat, remaining unbeaten on 42*. The young batter is expected to play a crucial role in the Test series, emulating Cheteshwar Pujara's ability to tire Australian bowlers with a solid defensive approach.In 14 matches batting at number three, Gill has amassed 926 runs at an average of 42.09, with three centuries and three fifties, including a top score of 119*. This year, he has been in excellent form, scoring 806 runs in 19 innings at an average of 47.41, with three centuries and three fifties, his highest score also being 119*.The much-anticipated Border-Gavaskar series between India and Australia begins on November 22 with the first Test in Perth. The second Test, a day-night match at the Adelaide Oval, is scheduled from December 6 to 10. The third Test will follow at The Gabba in Brisbane, from December 14 to 18.The Boxing Day Test at Melbourne Cricket Ground, running from December 26 to 30, will serve as the penultimate game, with the series concluding at the Sydney Cricket Ground from January 3 to 7. This thrilling finale promises a fitting end to the high-stakes series.

The upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 between Australia and India is highly anticipated, with Hall of Famer Ricky Ponting comparing the rivalry to the iconic Ashes series. Ponting believes these battles are among the most eagerly awaited in world cricket.The first Test of the series will commence at Perth's Optus Stadium on November 22. Ponting has emphasized the importance of maintaining a competitive yet fair spirit throughout the series. He anticipates intense matches played on the edge, with both teams refusing to concede an inch."Australia-England, with the history of the Ashes, but Australia-India is not far behind that and it's built up over a long period," Ponting said. "I think we all look forward to these sorts of battles. As a past player, as a commentator, I want to see these two teams go out there and play hard and fair and then see who is left standing at the end of the next five games."Ponting highlighted the significance of the rivalry, stating that it is now one of the biggest in world sport, not just cricket. He expects the matches to be played with a competitive edge, with both teams determined to emerge victorious.The series will feature a day-night Test in Adelaide from December 6 to 10, followed by Tests in Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney. The squads for the first Test have been announced, with Rohit Sharma leading India and Pat Cummins captaining Australia.Ponting's comments underscore the intense rivalry between Australia and India, which has produced some of the most memorable moments in cricket history. The upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy promises to continue this tradition of thrilling and competitive matches.

Former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has expressed concerns over KL Rahul's form as an opener ahead of the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia. Manjrekar believes Rahul's recent performances lack confidence and suggests he would be better suited in the middle order.Rahul's form has been inconsistent, with Manjrekar noting that he is "not setting the stage on fire" as an opening option. He attributes this to a lack of confidence, which is evident in Rahul's body language and shot selection.Manjrekar proposes that Rahul would be more effective in the middle order, citing his successful performance as No. 6 during India's tour of South Africa. He believes Rahul's ability to handle the softer Kookaburra ball and bat with the tailenders would make him a valuable asset in that position.Rahul's availability for the first Test is also in question after he was hit on the elbow during a practice match simulation. While he resumed practice on Sunday, his batting appeared slightly off. This injury, coupled with Shubman Gill's thumb injury, has raised concerns about India's opening options.Manjrekar's analysis highlights the importance of form and confidence in the opening position. Rahul's struggles have put pressure on the Indian team to find a reliable opener who can set the tempo for the innings. With the first Test just days away, Rahul's fitness and form will be closely monitored as India seeks to retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

Mitchell Marsh, Australia's in-form Test batter, has attributed his recent success to a significant shift in his mental approach to the game. Heading into the highly anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy series against India, Marsh has emphasized the importance of letting go of failures and focusing on preparation.Marsh's Test career has been marked by both highs and lows. From 2014 to 2019, he struggled to find consistency, averaging a mere 25.20 with only three centuries and six fifties in 55 innings. However, his return to the Test side in the Ashes series against England last year marked a turning point.Marsh's newfound mental resilience has been instrumental in his resurgence. He has learned to compartmentalize failures and focus on the present moment. "I have worked really hard on the mental side of my game, to be able to walk out there and get straight into my pre-ball routines, no matter how nervous I am," he said."For me, it is all about my preparation. If I prepare as well as I possibly can, I go into a game or an innings really confident, then if I fail, I can look at myself in the mirror and say that I have actually done all I can."Marsh's mental fortitude has also allowed him to enjoy the game more. "It does not guarantee me success, but it certainly allows me to enjoy the game a bit more, no matter what situation I find myself in. I feel as if I have got tools now to hopefully get me through," he said.Australia's recent struggles against India in Test cricket have provided additional motivation for the team. Marsh believes that the team's experience and the support of their fans will be crucial in overcoming this challenge."Since the last time they played here, we have grown a lot as a team. We have got a really experienced group now, and I think the fact that we have lost the last two series, our fans will be up and about for that and hopefully get right behind us," he said.The Border-Gavaskar Trophy series promises to be a thrilling contest between two of the world's top Test teams. Marsh's mental resilience and newfound consistency will be key factors in Australia's quest for victory.

Virat Kohli's immense popularity in Australia stems from his passionate and aggressive approach to cricket, particularly in Test matches. Despite recent challenges in his form, his prominence in Australia remains undiminished.Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting attributes Kohli's appeal to his competitive spirit and willingness to play with his heart on his sleeve. Australian supporters appreciate this emotional and aggressive style, which aligns with their sporting values.Kohli's Test performance in Australia is remarkable, with 1352 runs in 25 innings at 54.08, including six centuries. He led India to a historic victory in 2018/19, achieving the first Test series win by an Asian team in Australia.Ponting emphasizes that Kohli's recognition from Australian supporters is earned through performance. He notes that international cricket stars face varying pressures across different nations and cultures, but Kohli's leadership qualities and willingness to take responsibility for his team in challenging situations have earned him respect.Despite recent struggles in form, Kohli's historical success in Australia suggests that the upcoming tour could be a turning point. In 13 Tests in Australia, he has scored 1,352 runs at 54.08, with six centuries and four fifties.The Border-Gavaskar Trophy begins on November 22 at Perth, followed by a day-night Test at Adelaide Oval from December 6-10. The series continues at The Gabba, Brisbane (December 14-18), followed by the Boxing Day Test at Melbourne Cricket Ground (December 26-30). The final Test at Sydney Cricket Ground (January 3-7) concludes this significant series.