Cricket

Yashasvi Jaiswal, India's rising star opener, has received high praise from legendary West Indies captain Brian Lara, who believes the 22-year-old has the potential to excel in any conditions, including the challenging pitches of Australia.Jaiswal has made a remarkable start to his Test career, amassing 1217 runs in 11 matches at an impressive average of 64.05. However, the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia will present a new test for the young opener.Lara, who famously scored 277 in Sydney on his maiden trip to Australia in 1992-93, believes Jaiswal's mental strength will be crucial to his success Down Under. "The adjustment is upstairs," Lara said. "The adjustment is the ability to back your talent in whatever conditions."Lara emphasized that Jaiswal's technical skills are already strong, but he needs to develop a strong mindset to overcome the challenges of playing away from home and facing a formidable Australian team.Jaiswal's impressive performances in India's home Tests this year, where he has scored 901 runs in seven games, have caught Lara's attention. The former West Indies captain also highlighted Abhishek Sharma, who made his T20I debut earlier this year, as another exciting young Indian batter."They're very young, and they play the game in a style [that is] very attacking, very stylish," Lara said of Jaiswal and Sharma. "It's great to see them go from strength to strength."As India prepares for the three-match Test series against New Zealand starting October 16, Jaiswal has been rested from the ongoing T20I series against Bangladesh. The Test team will then embark on the tour of Australia, where they will face the Aussies in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy starting November 22.

Mark Taylor's tenure as Australia's Test captain began with an unfortunate milestone during the 1994 tour of Pakistan. In the first Test of the series, held in Karachi, Taylor etched his name in the wrong kind of record books by becoming the first player to bag a pair (dismissed for zero in both innings) in his debut match as captain. This unexpected failure underlined the difficulty of leading from the front, especially on subcontinental pitches that have historically troubled foreign batsmen. Karachi, notorious for its challenging conditions, proved to be a harsh initiation for the newly appointed Australian skipper.In the first innings, Taylor was caught and bowled by the king of swing Wasim Akram and then departed for a duck after being dismissed by Waqar Younis in the second. However, this disappointing start in Pakistan didn't define Taylor's career. In fact, Pakistan would later become one of his happiest hunting grounds. Four years later, during the 1998 series, Taylor returned to the subcontinent as a more seasoned leader and batsman. In the second Test in Peshawar, Taylor played one of the most iconic innings in Australian cricket history, scoring a magnificent 334 not out.With this innings, he equaled Sir Don Bradman's then-Australian Test record for the highest individual score. Yet, in a remarkable show of sportsmanship and humility, Taylor declared the innings while still at the crease, leaving Brian Lara's then-record of 375 within reach but unchallenged.Taylor's 334 not out was a testament to his resilience and determination. It was also a defining moment in his captaincy, as it showed that he was not afraid to take risks and back his players. Taylor's leadership would eventually lead Australia to a golden era of cricket, with the team winning the World Cup in 1999 and retaining the Ashes in 2001.

Australian all-rounder Mitchell Marsh has expressed his admiration for Indian wicket-keeper batter Rishabh Pant, stating that he wishes Pant was an Australian player. In an interview ahead of the Border-Gavaskar Test series, Marsh praised Pant's character and competitive spirit."He's a ripping bloke. I wish he was Australian. He's obviously been through a lot over the last few years, and it's been a hell of a comeback. He's a positive guy, still really young, and he loves winning. He's highly competitive for someone who has the persona of being relaxed and always laughing and smiling. He's got that big smile," Marsh said.Marsh's teammate Travis Head echoed similar sentiments, describing Pant as "the Indian cricketer I believe is most Australian." Head highlighted Pant's aggressive nature and work ethic as qualities that would make him a valuable asset to any team.Pant responded to the video of the interview on Instagram with a series of emojis, indicating his appreciation for the compliments.Meanwhile, Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood emphasized that his team would prioritize devising strategies to counter young Indian batters like Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill during the Border-Gavaskar series. Hazlewood acknowledged that Australia has limited experience playing against these players and would need to execute their basics effectively to win the series.The five-Test Border-Gavaskar series will commence in Perth on November 22, with India aiming to extend their dominance on the prestigious trophy. Australia, on the other hand, will be determined to showcase their bowling might and win it back after successive losses at home in 2018-19 and 2020-21.

Australian captain Mitchell Marsh has hailed leg-spinner Adam Zampa as he prepares to reach a significant milestone in his career. Zampa is set to play his 100th One Day International (ODI) against England on Thursday, a testament to his remarkable journey and impact on the Australian team.Marsh, speaking at a pre-match press conference, lauded Zampa's growth both as a cricketer and as a person. "Zamps has certainly had his ups and downs, but the way he's gone about it over the last four or five years is commendable," Marsh said. "He's tracking towards being one of our greatest ever ODI players."Zampa's importance to the team cannot be overstated, according to Marsh. "He's one of our go-to men with the ball over a 50-over period," Marsh emphasized. "He thrives off the bigger moments, which is what all great players do."Zampa's ability to perform under pressure has been a key factor in his success. He has taken 169 wickets in 99 matches, with his best figures of 5/35 against New Zealand in 2022. His impressive performances have also earned him a high ranking in the T20I bowlers' rankings, where he is just one rating point behind Sri Lanka's Wanindu Hasaranga in fifth place.Despite the ongoing debate about the future of the ODI format, Zampa remains committed to playing for Australia. "Every young guy coming through still thinks that's the be-all and end-all," Zampa said. "There are obviously those other opportunities in terms of franchise cricket, but all these different competitions give other guys opportunities."As Zampa prepares to reach his 100th ODI, he is poised to continue making a significant contribution to Australian cricket. His skill, determination, and ability to perform under pressure make him a valuable asset to the team and a role model for aspiring young cricketers.

Adam Zampa, Australia's premier white-ball spinner, has expressed his belief in the enduring significance of the ODI format despite the proliferation of franchise cricket and a congested international calendar. As he prepares to play his 100th ODI against England, Zampa emphasized that representing his country remains his paramount priority.Zampa's unwavering commitment to international cricket stems from the unparalleled emotions and achievements it offers. He believes that winning World Cups for Australia surpasses the triumphs of franchise cricket. This sentiment is echoed by a recent survey conducted by the World Cricketers Association, which revealed that 50% of players still view the ODI World Cup as the most prestigious title, with the T20 World Cup trailing at 35%.While acknowledging the opportunities provided by franchise cricket, Zampa maintains that playing for one's country remains the ultimate aspiration for young players. He believes that the ODI format continues to offer a valuable platform for aspiring cricketers to showcase their skills and represent their nation.Zampa's own success in both the T20 and ODI World Cups underscores his exceptional talent. He was Australia's leading wicket-taker in both the 2021 T20 World Cup and the 2023 ODI World Cup. Despite Australia's recent setbacks in the T20 World Cups, Zampa remains optimistic about their chances in the 2026 edition.As Zampa prepares for his 100th ODI, he will be accompanied by his wife, Harriet, and their baby boy. This milestone holds immense significance for him, as he never anticipated playing so many matches for Australia.

Mahli Beardman, a prodigious 19-year-old fast bowler, has been thrust into the spotlight as a standby player for Australia's upcoming ODI series against England. This unexpected call-up is a testament to Beardman's exceptional talent and the selectors' foresight in grooming future stars.Beardman's meteoric rise to prominence began with his stellar performance in the Under-19 World Cup final against India in February. His raw pace and incisive swing left an indelible mark on the cricketing world. Despite having played only one senior professional match, Beardman's potential has been recognized by the Australian selectors.The absence of Australia's leading fast bowlers, including Pat Cummins, has created an opportunity for Beardman to showcase his abilities. Injuries have also sidelined several other pacers, leaving the team short of experienced options. Beardman's selection, despite his limited experience, has raised eyebrows but also reflects the selectors' confidence in his abilities.Mentored by legendary Australian pace icon Dennis Lillee, Beardman possesses the raw pace and technical prowess to succeed at the highest level. Capable of bowling over 140 km/hr, he has the ability to unsettle even the most accomplished batsmen.Beardman's disbelief at his selection is a testament to his humility and the unexpected nature of his call-up. "I didn't think it was real, to be honest," he said. "I thought it might have been one of the boys pranking me."While Beardman may not get to play in the five-match series starting on Thursday, his selection is a clear indication that the selectors are looking to the future. As senior bowlers like Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Mitchell Starc age, Beardman is being groomed as a potential successor.Reflecting on his promotion, Beardman expressed his eagerness to learn from Australia's experienced pace bowlers. "Mitch Starc and 'Hoff' (Hazlewood), it's just unbelievable knowledge and an invaluable experience," he said. "I can't wait to get over there and soak up as much knowledge as possible."Beardman's selection is a reminder that the future of Australian cricket is in safe hands. With his raw talent, unwavering determination, and the guidance of experienced mentors, he has the potential to become one of the most feared fast bowlers in the world.

Nathan Lyon, Australia's premier spinner, has candidly discussed the immense pressure he has felt throughout his career to live up to the legacy of legendary leg-spinner Shane Warne.Warne, who retired in 2007, is widely regarded as one of the greatest bowlers of all time, having taken 708 wickets in 145 Test matches. Lyon, who made his Test debut in 2011, has emerged as Australia's go-to spinner, amassing 530 wickets in 129 appearances.Despite his impressive record, Lyon admits to still feeling the weight of Warne's shadow. "I still feel in the shadow of Shane Warne now, and I'm 129 Test matches in with 530 wickets," Lyon told Sky Sports Cricket. "The thing is, I'm happy with that, and I'm comfortable with that now."Lyon believes that the pressure he has faced has ultimately been a privilege. "A lot of us felt the pressure of Shane Warne's shadow, and it probably took me a good five, six, or seven years to understand that pressure is a privilege. And if you've got pressure, you're ok, you're doing ok; enjoy it," he said.While Lyon acknowledges that he will never be able to match Warne's unparalleled achievements, he remains determined to make his own mark on the game. "I'm never going to be able to do what Warnie did. Warnie's once-in-a-generation, he's the greatest to play the game in my opinion, and all I want to do is make my family proud, and make Shane Warne proud, and just go out there and compete," Lyon added.Lyon is currently just 34 wickets away from surpassing Glenn McGrath as Australia's second-highest wicket-taker in Test matches. He will have the opportunity to reach this milestone when Australia takes on India in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, which begins in Perth on November 22.

Sachin Tendulkar's remarkable cricketing career in Australia is a testament to his exceptional talent and unwavering determination. As an 18-year-old prodigy, Tendulkar arrived in Australia in 1991, already showcasing his batting prowess. His performances against the formidable Australian bowling attack, particularly in the fifth Test at the WACA Ground in Perth, cemented his status as one of the greatest batsmen of all time.On a notoriously bouncy pitch, Tendulkar faced a relentless barrage from the likes of Craig McDermott, Merv Hughes, and Shane Warne. Despite the hostile conditions, Tendulkar displayed an array of shots, including elegant cuts and powerful pulls, to reach his third Test century. His innings of 148 not out was a masterclass in batting, showcasing his ability to adapt to challenging conditions and dominate the best bowlers in the world.Tendulkar's rivalry with Australian legends like Warne, Glenn McGrath, and Brett Lee added another layer to his legacy. Warne famously described bowling to Tendulkar in India as his "worst nightmare," a testament to the Indian maestro's ability to counterattack even the most skilled bowlers.Tendulkar's performances in Australia solidified his place among cricket's all-time greats. His ability to dominate on challenging pitches earned him immense respect, even among Australian fans. His legacy as one of the greatest batsmen to ever grace the game is forever etched in the annals of cricket history.

Frank Misson, a former Australian and New South Wales fast bowler, passed away at the age of 85. Misson's promising Test career was cut short by an Achilles injury, but he left an enduring legacy on Australian cricket through his exceptional fitness and athleticism.Misson's journey began as a stellar athlete under the tutelage of legendary coach Percy Cerutty. He carried his athleticism into cricket, making a remarkable debut for New South Wales at the age of 20. His impressive performances earned him a spot in the Australian second XI that toured New Zealand in 1959-60.Misson's Test debut came against the West Indies in the 1960-61 series. He played two more Tests in the series before being selected for the 1961 Ashes tour to England. Despite his fitness regime, an Achilles injury hampered his performance on the tour, limiting him to just two Tests.Despite his limited Test appearances, Misson's impact on Australian cricket extended beyond his playing career. His son, David Misson, became the fitness advisor for the Australian men's team and Cricket New South Wales, carrying on his father's legacy of emphasizing fitness in the sport.Cricket NSW chief executive Lee Germon paid tribute to Misson, acknowledging his talent and determination. He noted that Misson's focus on health and fitness was ahead of its time, setting an example for future generations of cricketers.Frank Misson's passing marks the loss of a true pioneer in Australian cricket. His exceptional fitness and athleticism, coupled with his determination, left an indelible mark on the sport.