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.

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."

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.

Indian cricket team spinner Kuldeep Yadav's fiery response to an online troll has sparked a buzz on social media. A year after India's heartbreaking loss to Australia in the ODI World Cup 2023 final, Kuldeep was targeted by a user on X (formerly Twitter) for his wicketless performance in the match.The troll's harsh criticism prompted Kuldeep to hit back with a sarcastic reply. "Yes, so, what's bothering you so much? Did you get money to write such beautiful words, or do you have a personal hatred for me?" Kuldeep wrote.Kuldeep's response has garnered widespread attention and support from fans and fellow cricketers. Many praised him for standing up to online abuse and for his witty retort.As India prepares for the highly anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia, former India captain Sourav Ganguly has shared his thoughts on the team's chances and the significance of the series.Reflecting on India's recent 0-3 series loss to New Zealand, Ganguly acknowledged the challenge ahead but expressed optimism about India's prospects. He emphasized the importance of the India-Australia and India-England series, noting their high excitement levels among cricket fans."I think for me, at the moment, India-Australia, India-England are two of the best series in world cricket. Obviously, Ashes is there. But I think these two series will be keenly watched and going through social media, through news and all, I can feel there is a lot of excitement in Australia. Rightfully so for five test matches, Kohli and Rohit may not be going back to the country again after this, there is enough in this series. It is going to be a fascinating series and I am looking forward to it," said Ganguly.Ganguly expressed regret over not being able to work on the series due to other commitments but emphasized his enthusiasm for watching the matches."I wish I could be there to work on the series, but my other commitments are stopping me from doing it. It is going to be a great series and I will be up in the morning to watch the action from Perth. I know it is not an early morning wake-up time, not at 5.30 because of time differences, and that should help!"

Rohit Sharma's participation in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy opener remains uncertain despite the birth of his second child. Former cricketer Surinder Khanna has urged Rohit to prioritize the series opener, emphasizing the significance of his presence for India's chances.Rohit had previously informed the BCCI of his unavailability for the first Test due to the birth of his son. In his absence, vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah is expected to lead the Indian team.Khanna, while extending his congratulations to Rohit and his family, stressed the importance of Rohit joining the squad for the high-stakes encounter. He recalled his own experience of returning to a match on the evening of his wedding reception, highlighting the commitment required from players.India's recent struggles in the New Zealand series have added to the complexities ahead of the Australia tour. The team suffered a 3-0 clean sweep, marking their first such defeat in a home Test series since 2000.The first Test against Australia begins on November 22 in Perth, followed by matches in Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney. The series is crucial for India's World Test Championship (WTC) Final hopes, as they currently trail Australia in the standings.To qualify for the third successive WTC final, India must win at least four of the five Tests against Australia. The team will be looking to bounce back from their New Zealand debacle and secure a strong start to the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

India's Sarfaraz Khan Steals the Show with Hilarious Catch in Perth TrainingAs the Indian cricket team intensifies its preparations for the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy, a moment of levity emerged during a fielding drill in Perth. Sarfaraz Khan, India's middle-order batter, became the center of attention with an unconventional catch that left his teammates in stitches.In a video that has since gone viral on social media, Khan is seen fielding at short leg when a ball is hit towards him. Instead of taking a conventional catch, Khan uses his body to trap the ball between his legs, much to the amusement of his teammates.The video captures the lighthearted camaraderie within the Indian camp, with Virat Kohli, Dhruv Jurel, and Rishabh Pant seen laughing uncontrollably at Khan's antics. The moment has provided a welcome respite from the intense training sessions as India gears up for the first Test in Perth on November 22.The Border-Gavaskar Trophy is a highly anticipated series between India and Australia, with both teams eager to claim victory. The series will consist of five Tests, with the remaining matches scheduled to be played in Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney.India will be looking to retain the trophy they won in 2018-19, while Australia will be determined to reclaim it on home soil. The series is expected to be fiercely contested, with both teams boasting a wealth of talent and experience.