Cricket

Mohammed Shami's Return Boosts India's Hopes for Border-Gavaskar TrophyWith the highly anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia approaching, the return of veteran pacer Mohammed Shami has ignited excitement among Indian cricket enthusiasts. Shami, who has been sidelined with a long-term injury, made a remarkable comeback in the Ranji Trophy, sparking calls for his inclusion in the Test squad.Kirti Azad, a member of India's 1983 World Cup-winning team, believes Shami should be part of the squad for the second Test in Adelaide, provided he is fully fit. "Mohammed Shami is the best seam bowler India has," Azad said. "He has excellent control, can swing both ways, and is a very sensible bowler."Shami's return to competitive cricket has been impressive. In his first match for Bengal against Madhya Pradesh, he claimed a seven-wicket haul, dismantling the opposition's batting lineup. He also contributed with the bat, scoring a quickfire 37 runs.To gain more playing time, Shami will represent Bengal in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. The Border-Gavaskar Trophy begins on November 22 with the first Test in Perth, followed by a Day-Night encounter in Adelaide from December 6.Azad acknowledged the challenges of playing in Australia, particularly on the bouncy wickets of Perth and Melbourne. However, he expressed confidence in the Indian team's ability to adapt to any conditions. "The Indian team is capable of playing on any track," he said. "They have played against international bowlers and batters in IPL matches."Shami's return provides a significant boost to India's bowling attack. His experience, skill, and ability to swing the ball both ways will be crucial in the upcoming series. With Shami in the squad, India will have a more balanced and formidable bowling unit capable of challenging Australia's formidable batting lineup.

India's preparations for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy have suffered a setback with the news that opener Shubman Gill has been ruled out of the first Test due to a hairline fracture on his left thumb. The injury occurred during a match simulation in Perth on Saturday, leaving Team India scrambling for a replacement in the playing XI.Former Indian cricketer and 1983 World Cup winner Kirti Azad has suggested that Virat Kohli should be considered as the ideal candidate to fill the void at No. 3 in Gill's absence. Azad believes that Kohli's experience and ability to perform under pressure make him the best choice for the crucial position.However, Kohli's record at No. 3 in Test cricket has been inconsistent. In eight innings at the position since his debut, he has scored just 167 runs at an average of 23.85, with only one fifty to his name. His overall Test performance in 2024 has also been underwhelming, with 250 runs at an average of 22.72 across twelve innings.Despite Kohli's recent struggles, Azad remains confident that he can rediscover his form in Australia. "He likes challenges, though this is a tough one in Australia," Azad said.Other potential candidates to replace Gill at No. 3 include Hanuma Vihari, Shreyas Iyer, and Suryakumar Yadav. Vihari has a solid Test record, averaging 32.61 in 16 matches, while Iyer has impressed in limited-overs cricket and has a first-class average of 52.18. Yadav, on the other hand, is a dynamic batter who has made a name for himself in the Indian Premier League.The Indian team management will have a tough decision to make in selecting Gill's replacement. Kohli's experience and pedigree make him the favorite, but his recent form is a concern. Vihari and Iyer offer more stability, while Yadav brings a touch of flair and unpredictability.

Yashasvi Jaiswal, the 22-year-old Indian opener, has made a remarkable start to his Test career with three daddy hundreds in just 14 matches. His impressive double centuries against England at home and a 171 on debut in the West Indies have earned him a reputation as one of the most promising young batters in the world.However, Jaiswal's biggest challenge lies ahead as India prepare to face Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT). The challenging conditions Down Under will test his grit, determination, and mental toughness to the limits.Former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri believes that Jaiswal has the potential to thrive in Australia and emerge as an even better player after the tour. "I think he'll be a better player when he leaves Australian shores. Already, he’s world-class,” Shastri said.Shastri praised Jaiswal's freedom of play and his ability to score freely. He believes that once the youngster settles into the Australian conditions, he will be a force to reckon with. "If he can see that phase through, he will love these pitches. He scores freely and has the temperament to thrive in tough conditions,” Shastri added.Jaiswal will be playing his first-ever match in Australia when the BGT commences in Perth on November 22. He is likely to open the batting alongside KL Rahul in the absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma.The Indian team has been preparing diligently for the series, with extended net sessions and simulation matches at the WACA stadium in Perth. They had their first training session at the Optus Stadium in Perth on Tuesday, the venue of the first Test.Jaiswal's performance in Australia will be closely watched by fans and experts alike. If he can overcome the challenges posed by the bouncy Australian tracks and the formidable Australian bowling attack, he will cement his status as one of the most exciting young talents in world cricket.

Ahead of the highly anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy against India, both teams are grappling with batting concerns. India is worried about Virat Kohli's recent poor form, while Australia is facing a dilemma over Steve Smith's position in the batting order.Kohli, the former India captain, has struggled for runs in recent months, averaging just 26.50 in his last 10 Test innings. His poor form has raised questions about his place in the team, especially with the emergence of young players like Shubman Gill and Suryakumar Yadav.Australia, on the other hand, is facing a different kind of batting dilemma. Steve Smith, one of the world's best batsmen, has been struggling to find his form as an opener. In his last 10 Test innings as an opener, Smith has averaged just 27.80.Smith's struggles have led to calls for him to move back to his preferred position at number four. However, Australia's selectors are reluctant to make a change, especially with David Warner retiring from Test cricket.The return of Cameron Green from injury has further complicated Australia's batting order. Green, who is a genuine all-rounder, has been in excellent form with the bat in recent months. He is likely to bat at number four, which would push Smith down to number five.Smith has admitted that he has struggled as an opener. He said, "Marnus (Labuschagne) and Uzzie (Khawaja), they hated me up top, to be honest. They wanted me behind them. So that was a big part of it."Despite his struggles, Smith remains a key player for Australia. He has a phenomenal record in Test cricket, averaging over 60. However, if his poor form continues, Australia may be forced to make a change in their batting order.India will be hoping to exploit Smith's weakness against spin bowling. Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja have dismissed Smith eight times each in Test cricket. Ashwin has said that he has "the wood" over Smith, and he will be looking to continue his dominance over the Australian batsman.The Border-Gavaskar Trophy is one of the most prestigious Test series in the world. India and Australia are two of the best teams in the world, and the series is always fiercely contested. The outcome of the series could hinge on the performances of Kohli and Smith.

Prithvi Shaw, India's prodigious young opener, has been hailed as the "New King" by Australian media ahead of the Border Gavaskar Trophy. His coach, Jwala Singh, has taken the prediction a step further, declaring that Shaw has the potential to become the "next legend" of Indian cricket.Shaw, 22, is set to make his debut on Australian soil in the upcoming Test series. Despite the formidable challenge, Singh is confident in his student's abilities. "I think that in four or five years, yes, he can become the next legend of Indian cricket," Singh told 'The Sydney Morning Herald'.Since his Test debut in 2023 against the West Indies, Shaw has amassed 1407 runs in 14 matches at an impressive average of 56.28. His tally includes three centuries, two of which were converted into double hundreds, and eight half-centuries.Singh's unwavering belief in Shaw stems from his discovery of the young batsman a decade ago. At the time, Shaw was just 12 years old and struggling to make ends meet in Mumbai. "That small boy came out from the nets, and he just removed his helmet, and I asked him...'Where are you living? Where are you from?' He said, 'I am from Uttar Pradesh, I live in a tent...and I'm staying here alone for cricket," Singh recalled.Singh was moved by Shaw's determination and promised himself that he would help him fulfill his dreams. "Psychologically, he was very down. His fitness was not that great because he had a knee injury. So if I tell you frankly, it was my passion to make him my (first) India player," Singh said.Shaw's journey to the top has been marked by hard work and resilience. Despite facing challenges both on and off the field, he has remained focused on his goal of becoming a legendary cricketer. With his exceptional talent and the unwavering support of his coach, Shaw is poised to make a significant impact on the upcoming Border Gavaskar Trophy and beyond.

Nathan McSweeney, a 25-year-old debutant, has been entrusted with the responsibility of opening the batting for Australia in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy against India. Despite not being a specialist opener, McSweeney's impressive technique and ability to bat for extended periods have earned him the nod.David Warner, Australia's vice-captain, expressed confidence in McSweeney's abilities, stating that he possesses the necessary technique and patience to succeed at the highest level. Warner also highlighted the importance of being patient with young players like McSweeney, who will be facing a formidable Indian bowling attack led by Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj.McSweeney's selection as an opener is a result of the absence of a clear contender to partner Usman Khawaja at the top of the order since Warner's retirement earlier this year. Steve Smith, who initially filled the role, has been moved back to his usual No. 4 position, while Marnus Labuschagne will bat at No. 3.Warner believes that McSweeney's partnership with Khawaja will be crucial for Australia's success. He emphasized the need for patience and support for the young opener, who will be making his debut in a high-pressure series.McSweeney's selection is a testament to his talent and the faith that the Australian selectors have in his abilities. With his technique and determination, he has the potential to make a significant impact on the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and establish himself as a reliable opener for Australia in the years to come.

Former India coach Ravi Shastri has urged Virat Kohli to rediscover his aggressive form during the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) against Australia. Shastri believes that facing the Aussies on their home turf could reignite Kohli's fire and help him regain his lost touch.Kohli has struggled for consistency in recent years, scoring only two centuries in his last 60 innings. His performances in the recent Test series against Bangladesh and New Zealand were particularly disappointing, with the 36-year-old managing just 192 runs in 10 innings.Shastri, who coached India to their first-ever Test series win in Australia in 2018-19, believes that Kohli needs to bring back his aggression to succeed Down Under. "You mellow with age, don't you? But I think at the start of the Test series, you might just see (Kohli) firing again. He needs to be, I'd like to see him (like that) again," said Shastri.Shastri also highlighted the importance of Steve Smith for Australia. "In the face, that's Kohli," said Shastri. "Come Australia, he'll get his juices going. It's (about) how he starts off, and for Australia, it's with Steve Smith. These guys, don't write them off – because if they get cracking in the first two or three innings, they'll have a good series."India will defend the BGT in a five-Test series, beginning with the tour opener in Perth on November 22. The series is expected to be a closely contested affair, with both teams boasting world-class players.

Jasprit Bumrah, India's bowling spearhead and vice-captain, has emerged as a formidable force ahead of the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) in Australia. His exceptional skills and ability to excel in diverse conditions have made him a key player for India.Bumrah's unique bowling style, characterized by a short run-up and an awkward stiff-arm delivery stride, has left Australian batters in awe. His ability to generate significant pace from a short run-up, combined with his control over line, length, and swing, makes him a formidable opponent.Australian batters have expressed their admiration for Bumrah's bowling prowess. Travis Head described him as "impossible" to face, while Usman Khawaja compared him to Mitchell Johnson due to his awkward action and the deceptive pace he generates. Steve Smith acknowledged the difficulty of facing Bumrah's deliveries, particularly in the initial stages of an innings.Former Australian all-rounder Shane Watson explained how Bumrah's unique release point and coordination allow him to generate so much pace. He also highlighted Bumrah's ability to swing the ball both ways at speed, making him even more unpredictable.Marnus Labuschagne, the top-scorer in the last BGT played in Australia, praised Bumrah's ability to control his pace and swing, as well as his use of the bouncer. He emphasized that Bumrah's exceptional skills have made him one of the best bowlers in India.Bumrah's leadership will be crucial for India in the first Test of the BGT, as designated skipper Rohit Sharma will be unavailable due to personal reasons. His experience and ability to inspire his teammates will be vital in India's quest to retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

Virat Kohli, the legendary Indian batter, returns to Perth, the city where his Test career took flight in 2012. Now, at the twilight of his career, Kohli seeks to reignite his brilliance in the land that forged his legacy.In 2012, a young and fiery Kohli faced intense scrutiny after a poor performance in Perth. However, he responded with a defiant 75 in the second innings, proving his mettle. Now, a decade later, Kohli is back at the WACA, where India is preparing for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.The Australian media has been effusive in their praise for Kohli, despite his recent struggles. They recognize his past achievements and believe he can still produce a masterpiece. Kohli's arrival in Australia has been met with glowing headlines and full-page write-ups.Despite his recent dip in form, Kohli remains a formidable batter. He has scored two centuries in the last five years, and his average has dropped to 47.83. However, his determination and passion remain unwavering.Kohli's journey in Australia has been marked by both triumph and adversity. In 2014, he led India to a spirited draw in Adelaide, scoring a century in each innings. His duels with Mitchell Johnson were legendary, showcasing his fiery spirit.In 2018, Kohli played a pivotal role in India's 2-1 series victory, scoring a gritty 123 in the second Test at Optus Stadium. He has also faced setbacks, such as the infamous 36 all-out in Adelaide in 2020.As Kohli enters the twilight of his career, he faces the challenge of reclaiming his aura in the land where he first earned it. With peers surpassing him in the quest for batting immortality, Kohli is determined to summon one last effort and prove that he remains a force to be reckoned with.