Cricket

India's recent loss to New Zealand at home has left a bitter taste in their mouths, and former captain and coach Ravi Shastri believes the team needs to start strong in the upcoming Test series against Australia to put that defeat behind them.Shastri pointed out that India was "caught unawares" by New Zealand, who ended India's unbeaten run at home that lasted over 12 years and 18 series. He believes that the team will be hurting after this defeat and will be eager to bounce back."The best way to bounce back from such a series is to start off another series in a good manner, so the first two Test matches become extremely crucial going ahead," Shastri said.He emphasized the importance of the coaching staff, led by head coach Gautam Gambhir, in ensuring that the players are in a "good state of mind" going into the five-Test affair starting on November 22 at Optus Stadium in Perth."The most important thing will be to ensure that they start off well; they keep the players in a good state of mind. That will be the most important thing for the coach," he said.Shastri, who was India's head coach during their series wins Down Under in 2018-19 and 2020-21, urged India to draw confidence from those feats."It's playing on their mind, confidence-wise. You can't go to the negatives. Think about the positives," he said."Think about what you did in Australia last time around and take it ahead from there. Put what (has) happened behind you. These are different conditions and some of the tracks in Australia when you get in are probably the best to bat," Shastri said."I think it will be totally different, the conditions when they get out there," he added.

Australia's dominance in the shortest format continued as they completed a comprehensive 3-0 T20 series victory over Pakistan with a convincing seven-wicket win in Hobart. Marcus Stoinis' blistering unbeaten 61 off just 27 balls proved to be the catalyst for Australia's triumph.Pakistan, who had triumphed in the preceding ODI series 2-1, were outplayed in the T20 format. Their batting faltered, mustering a mere 117 in 19 overs, with Babar Azam's 41 being the highest individual score. Aaron Hardie emerged as the standout bowler for Australia, claiming 3-21.In response, Australia chased down the target with ease, reaching the victory mark in the 12th over. Skipper Josh Inglis expressed his delight at the series sweep, highlighting Stoinis' devastating performance. "When he's going like that, it's really hard to stop," Inglis said.Stoinis' innings was a masterclass in power-hitting, featuring five sixes and five fours. He forged a crucial 55-run partnership with Inglis (27) to put Australia in control. The victory capped off a dominant series for the hosts, who had won the first two matches in Brisbane and Sydney by comfortable margins.Pakistan's batting woes were evident from the outset. They lost wickets regularly and failed to build any substantial partnerships. Shaheen Shah Afridi's solitary six was a rare bright spot in an otherwise disappointing display."There's lots of positives, the way some of the players batted and bowled, these youngsters will come good," said Salman Agha, Pakistan's skipper for the night.Australia's chase was a formality. Fraser-McGurk and Short got off to a flying start, but Short's dismissal for two opened the door for Stoinis to take center stage. He shared a match-winning partnership with Inglis, effectively ending the contest.Stoinis' half-century came off just 23 balls, underlining his status as one of the most destructive batsmen in the world. His innings featured a flurry of sixes and fours, leaving the Pakistani bowlers helpless.Australia's victory was a testament to their superior firepower and execution in the shortest format. Pakistan, despite their ODI success, were unable to match the hosts' intensity and skill in the T20 series.

Australian cricketer Travis Head anticipates a formidable performance from Indian star batsman Virat Kohli throughout the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy series. Head acknowledges Kohli's world-class batting abilities and emphasizes the importance of respecting his talent.Despite Kohli's recent dip in form, Head believes he will have his moments in the series. "He's a world-class player. Over the course of five Tests, he is going to play well at some stage. We have to understand and respect that," Head said.Head also expressed his understanding and support for Rohit Sharma's decision to prioritize family over the first Test match. "Hundred per cent, I support Rohit's decision. I would have done the same in the same situation," Head said.Despite Rohit's absence, Head cautioned against underestimating the Indian team. "If you look at our history, you would not rule out any Indian team. In the last two trips, they've had injuries and doubts, and people questioned them, but they pulled off incredible performances," Head said.Nathan Lyon, Australia's leading off-spinner, emphasized that the Australian bowling attack has strategies in place for every Indian batsman, not just Kohli. "We have got plans for each one of their guys. They have a side full of superstars, the batting lineup which is exciting, it is a massive challenge for us," Lyon said.Lyon expressed confidence in Australia's preparations and their anticipation for the series. "We are looking forward to that, we have some plans in store. Let's get cracking on Friday," Lyon said.The Border-Gavaskar Trophy series between Australia and India is set to commence on February 9th in Nagpur. The series will consist of four Test matches, with the second Test to be played in Delhi, the third in Dharamsala, and the fourth in Ahmedabad.

Nathan McSweeney, the unheralded opener, is set to make his Test debut for Australia against India in Perth. The 25-year-old has endured a baptism of fire in his first training session, facing the likes of Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc.McSweeney's selection has raised eyebrows, with some questioning his credentials. However, the South Australian has impressed with his form in the Sheffield Shield, earning the nod over more experienced openers.In his first session as a Test cricketer, McSweeney faced a barrage of short-pitched deliveries from Cummins and Starc. He struggled initially, but showed signs of improvement as the session progressed."It was a good challenge," McSweeney said. "I got through it unscathed. Didn't put much pressure on them but they bowled really well and great preparation to face those guys who are quality bowlers."McSweeney also received praise from his teammates, including Nathan Lyon. "I think nothing but exceptional in my eyes," Lyon said. "I saw him up close and personal in that Shield game a couple of weeks ago and I thought we had to run him out to get him out in the game."McSweeney will also play a role in Australia's slip cordon, filling the void left by David Warner's retirement. He is comfortable fielding at both third slip and gully.Despite the challenges ahead, McSweeney is confident in his abilities. "I know what works and I feel very capable to go and do the job and I'm batting the best I ever have, I feel," he said.McSweeney will have plenty of support in Perth, with family and friends traveling from Brisbane to witness his debut. "Got a great supporter base and great family that's looked after me and sacrificed a lot," he said.

Pakistan Pacer Jahandad Khan's Wardrobe Malfunction Steals the Show in T20IIn a hilarious turn of events during the third T20I between Australia and Pakistan, Pakistan pacer Jahandad Khan became the center of attention for an unexpected wardrobe malfunction. The incident occurred as Khan chased down a boundary, leaving everyone in stitches.As Australian batter Jake Fraser-McGurk attempted a shot into the covers off Shaheen Afridi, the ball squirted through third man off a thick outside edge. Khan sprinted to prevent the firmly struck shot from crossing the ropes, but his dacks betrayed him, slipping down at the most inopportune moment.The incident, captured on camera, has since gone viral, turning the boundary chase into an unforgettable highlight. It serves as a reminder that even in the high-stakes world of professional sports, the lighter moments often steal the show.Khan's wardrobe malfunction has become a talking point among cricket fans, with many praising his ability to laugh at himself and take the incident in stride. The incident has also sparked a discussion about the importance of proper attire in sports, particularly for athletes who engage in strenuous activities.While the wardrobe malfunction may have been an embarrassing moment for Khan, it has also endeared him to fans who appreciate his sense of humor and ability to find the lighter side of even the most awkward situations. The incident has also provided a much-needed moment of levity in a sport that can often be intense and competitive.

Former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly has hailed Rishabh Pant as the next-best red-ball batter after Virat Kohli, predicting a significant impact from the wicketkeeper-batter in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia.Pant's aggressive approach, coupled with his exceptional talent, has made him a formidable force in Test cricket, particularly against Australia. His fearless batting in the fourth Test in Brisbane in 2021 played a pivotal role in India's historic victory, earning him the moniker "Toota Hai Gabba Ka Ghamand."Ganguly, who has witnessed Pant's growth firsthand during their time together at Delhi Capitals in the IPL, believes the 25-year-old is a "generational talent" in red-ball cricket. "He is India's next-best red-ball batter after Kohli and could have a huge impact in the series," Ganguly said.Pant's recent performances in Test matches against Bangladesh and New Zealand have showcased his ability to score runs consistently. In five matches, he amassed 422 runs at an average of 46.88 and a strike rate of 86.47.In the opening Test against New Zealand in Bengaluru, Pant's scintillating 99, supported by Sarfaraz Khan, provided a glimmer of hope for India when they were struggling.Ganguly emphasized that while Pant still needs to improve his game in white-ball cricket, his talent in red-ball cricket is undeniable. "Look at the innings he has played in England, Australia, and South Africa, and you will know, he is a generational talent in red-ball cricket," Ganguly said.With the Border-Gavaskar Trophy set to begin on Friday in Perth, all eyes will be on Pant to continue his impressive form and make a significant contribution to India's quest for a third consecutive World Test Championship final appearance.

A verbal clash has erupted between Indian cricket team head coach Gautam Gambhir and Australian legend Ricky Ponting, igniting a war of words that has drawn reactions from former cricketers.The controversy began when Ponting criticized Virat Kohli's recent form and questioned his place in the Test team. Gambhir, in a press conference, reacted strongly, urging Ponting to focus on his own team.However, Gambhir's comments have sparked criticism from some former players, including ex-England captain Michael Vaughan. Vaughan, in a podcast discussion, labeled Gambhir as a "spicy" coach and expressed disagreement with his stance on barring foreign pundits from commenting on the Indian team.Vaughan argued that punditry should not be restricted to former players of a particular team. He pointed out that many foreign pundits have valuable insights and perspectives to offer."I don't quite agree with Gautam," Vaughan said. "But I do like a bit of spice and I like the fact that he is going to be very prickly."Vaughan also predicted that Gambhir's prickly nature could lead to challenges for the Indian team as they face setbacks in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy.As the series progresses, more verbal battles are expected between Gambhir and retired cricketers working as pundits. The clash highlights the growing tension between coaches and pundits, with coaches seeking to protect their teams from external criticism.

Former England captain Michael Vaughan has expressed concerns over India's decision to forgo a warm-up match ahead of the high-profile Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia. Vaughan believes that the lack of match practice could hinder India's ability to get into a "competitive mindset" and adapt to the Australian conditions.India has opted to focus on center-wicket training at the WACA in Perth instead of playing an intra-squad game or a match against an Australian domestic side. The Indian think tank believes that the bounce of the WACA center strip closely mirrors that of the Perth Stadium pitch, making it more beneficial for the top-order batters to spend time in the middle.However, Vaughan argues that match practice is essential for players to get into the rhythm of competitive cricket. He points out that Australia has also skipped warm-up matches in recent Test tours, but their players have a different mindset and are accustomed to playing 12 months of the year.Vaughan believes that the modern player may not prioritize tour matches, relying instead on the volume of cricket they play throughout the year. However, he emphasizes the importance of winning and setting a marker in the first match of a series.India's decision to forgo a warm-up match has raised questions about their preparation for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. While the Indian think tank believes that center-wicket training is sufficient, Vaughan's concerns highlight the importance of match practice in getting players ready for the rigors of Test cricket.

India's decision to conduct closed-door practice sessions ahead of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) opener in Perth has raised concerns among cricket experts. Former Pakistan batter Basit Ali believes it reflects a lack of confidence within the Indian team.India has dominated the BGT for a decade, but their recent form has been inconsistent. They were whitewashed 0-3 in the home Test series against New Zealand and have struggled to find their rhythm in red-ball cricket. The absence of star batters Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, who is expected to miss the first Test, has further compounded their problems.Basit Ali believes that India's closed-door practice sessions are a sign of their low confidence. "The Indian team's confidence at the moment is down," he said. "They are practicing behind closed doors, sorry to say that."He added that India should have played more warm-up matches to prepare for the Australian conditions. "The kind of preparation they should have had before the series is not there," he said. "They should have played (warm-up) matches and tackled their (Australian) bowling."Basit Ali also suggested that India should consider including wicketkeeper-batsman Dhruv Jurel in the playing XI for the Perth Test. Jurel impressed with knocks of 80 and 68 in the unofficial Test between India A and Australia A in Melbourne."My personal opinion is that Jurel, who is in form, should be included in the playing eleven," Basit said. "In Australia, whosoever is in form should be played...So what if he (usually) bats at No. 5 or 6! Push him to No. 3. He has guts, is a good player of the cut and pull shots. It might pay."Basit Ali also advised Virat Kohli to practice more against left-arm fast bowlers, especially Khaleel Ahmed. "Let me give one piece of advice," he said. "I think Khaleel (Ahmed) is there. Practice more against the left-arm (fast) bowler, especially Virat Kohli."The first Test of the BGT begins in Perth on November 22. India will be looking to defend their title and extend their dominance in the series.