Cricket

India's Miraculous Comeback After Adelaide Humiliation: Ashwin Recounts Dressing Room MoodIn the aftermath of India's humiliating 36 all out in the first Test against Australia in Adelaide in 2020, veteran spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has shed light on the somber mood in the dressing room.Despite holding a 53-run lead in the first innings, India collapsed to their lowest Test score, handing Australia a comfortable victory. The defeat left the team reeling and questioning their chances of winning the series.However, according to Ashwin, head coach Ravi Shastri played a pivotal role in lifting the team's spirits. "The mood in the dressing room was a bit down," Ashwin said. "But Ravi Bhai organized a team dinner and arranged for karaoke. He started singing old Hindi songs, and everybody joined in."With captain Virat Kohli preparing to leave for the birth of his child, the team set modest goals for the remaining Tests. "We were just focusing on doing well in the next Test in Melbourne," Ashwin said. "We kept small targets."What followed was a remarkable turnaround. Under the leadership of Ajinkya Rahane, India fought back with determination and resilience. They drew the second Test in Melbourne, won the third Test in Sydney, and triumphed in the fourth Test at the Gabba, where Australia had not lost in 32 years.Ashwin credits the team's unity and belief for their success. "We had a lot of belief in ourselves," he said. "We knew we could do it, and we just kept fighting."India's victory in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2020-21 remains one of the most inspiring stories in cricket history. It showcased the team's ability to overcome adversity and achieve greatness.

Australia's star opener Usman Khawaja has expressed his admiration for legendary Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, praising his strategic approach and cricketing intelligence. As the highly anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy between India and Australia approaches, Khawaja acknowledged Ashwin's formidable record against the Aussies.Ashwin has been a thorn in Australia's side, claiming 114 wickets in 22 Tests and 42 innings against them. His economy rate of 2.70 is a testament to his ability to control the flow of runs. On Australian soil, Ashwin has taken 39 wickets in 10 Tests, maintaining an impressive economy rate of 2.93.Khawaja believes that Ashwin's success stems from his ability to stay ahead of the game. "He is very strategic, he always has a plan," Khawaja said. "He always tries to figure it out. He is trying to get ahead of the game, one step ahead of the game, which I respect. I respect his cricketing brain."Ashwin's debut in 2011 marked the beginning of a remarkable Test career. In 100 matches and 189 innings, he has captured 516 wickets at an economy rate of 2.81. His ability to spin the ball prodigiously and deceive batsmen with his variations has made him one of the most successful bowlers in the world.The upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy promises to be a thrilling contest, with India seeking to extend its dominance over Australia. The series will begin on November 22 in Perth, with the second Test scheduled for Adelaide Oval from December 6 to 10. The third Test will be played at The Gabba in Brisbane from December 14 to 18, followed by the traditional Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground from December 26 to 30. The series will conclude with the fifth and final Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground from January 3 to 7.

India's World Test Championship (WTC) campaign will culminate in a highly anticipated five-Test Border Gavaskar Trophy against Australia. Ahead of this crucial series, Australian cricketers have identified Yashasvi Jaiswal as a rising star from India.In a video shared by Star Sports Tamil, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, and Nathan Lyon named Jaiswal as a future superstar. Marnus Labuschagne also included Jaiswal alongside Shubman Gill.Jaiswal, 21, has impressed in his limited international appearances. In nine Tests, he has amassed 1028 runs at an astonishing average of 68.53, including two double centuries. His T20I record is equally impressive, with 723 runs at an average of 36.15 and a strike rate of 164.32.Gill, on the other hand, has established himself as a key member of India's batting lineup. He has played 25 Tests, 47 ODIs, and 21 T20Is, scoring 1492, 2328, and 578 runs respectively.Cameron Green and Travis Head voted for Gill as the future superstar, while Labuschagne recognized both Jaiswal and Gill's potential. Head praised Gill's ability to make bowling look slow and his proficiency in playing off both the front and back foot.India, currently leading the WTC table, will embark on a busy schedule of 10 Tests over the next four months. They will host Bangladesh for two Tests, followed by a three-Test series against New Zealand. The Border Gavaskar Trophy will be the ultimate test for India's WTC aspirations.The WTC final is scheduled to be held at Lord's Cricket Ground in London from June 11. India will be aiming to defend their title and cement their status as the world's leading Test team.

The upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy between India and Australia promises to be a thrilling spectacle, with both teams eager to prove their dominance. Aussie opener Travis Head has acknowledged the formidable challenge posed by the Rohit Sharma-led Indian side, but remains confident in his team's abilities.India has emerged as a formidable force in the series, having won the last four encounters against Australia, including two victories on Australian soil. This has shifted the balance of power in India's favor, with the team winning the BGT 10 times compared to Australia's five.Head, however, is not ready to label India as favorites. He believes that the Aussies have played against them enough to understand their strengths and weaknesses. The 30-year-old has been in impressive form in recent years and is eager to contribute to his team's success."I don't feel like they're my favorite. I just feel like we play them enough, play them lots. And, I guess the last couple of years I've been in nice form. So yeah, being able to, to play well, it's always nice. It's not hard to get up for the contest. It's hugely competitive. Yeah, it's easier to get up for the game. So I wouldn't say they're my favorites," Head said.Despite acknowledging India's strength, Head remains optimistic about Australia's chances. He believes that the team has the potential to perform well and is looking forward to a successful summer."They're extremely difficult but it's been nice to play well in a couple of games and looking forward to preparing well and being ready to go and...hope hopefully I can contribute to what's a successful summer for us," he added.The Border-Gavaskar Trophy will commence on November 22 with the first Test at Perth. The series will feature a day-night Test at Adelaide Oval, a traditional Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, and a thrilling finale at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

The Border-Gavaskar Trophy, a highly anticipated Test series between India and Australia, is set to commence on November 22 in Perth. India, led by Rohit Sharma, aims to make a strong start, while Australia will seek to capitalize on their home advantage. The second Test, a day-night pink-ball match, will be held from December 6 to 10 at Adelaide Oval, presenting a unique challenge for both teams.Adelaide Oval's Test pitch is renowned for its reliable batting surface. Initially, it offers a firm and true surface with well-rolled grass, ideal for batsmen. Teams often prefer to bat first, as the conditions favor batsmen in the early days of the match. However, as the pitch deteriorates, spin bowlers gain an advantage due to widening footmarks and unpredictable bounce, making batting in the final innings difficult unless the target is low.The ground's oval shape makes straight sixes harder to hit, while shots square of the wicket are easier. Since 2000, India has played six Test matches at Adelaide Oval against Australia, with Australia winning three, India two, and one match ending in a draw.India's Test matches at Adelaide Oval have been marked by unforgettable moments. In 2003, Rahul Dravid scripted one of India's most iconic wins on Australian soil. Despite Ricky Ponting's powerful double century in the first innings, Dravid's equally dominant 233-run knock countered Australia's efforts. In a tense chase of 233 in the fourth innings, when batting became challenging, Ponting couldn't even open his account, but Dravid stood tall with a gritty 72*, leading India to a historic win.In 2008, both teams showcased their batting prowess, crossing 500 runs in their respective first innings. Australia saw centuries from Matthew Hayden, Ponting, and Michael Clarke, but India was kept alive by Sachin Tendulkar's 153. Despite a middle-order collapse, Anil Kumble and Harbhajan Singh chipped in with crucial scores of 87 and 63. In the second innings, Virender Sehwag's 151 on a tough pitch was vital, as the next high scorer for India was MS Dhoni with 20 runs. The match ended in a draw, with no team able to force a result on Day 5.The third encounter, in 2012, was less memorable for India. The batting line up included Gautam Gambhir, Sehwag, Dravid, Tendulkar, VVS Laxman, and a young Virat Kohli, who was still finding his place in the team. India lost the match by 298 runs, marking one of their most forgettable encounters. Ponting and Clarke both scored double centuries, helping Australia surpass 600 runs. Kohli’s century in the first innings saved India from the follow-on, but in the second innings, Australia set a target of 500 runs. Sehwag’s 62 was the highest score as India were bowled out for 201.In 2014, a new generation of Indian cricketers, including Shikhar Dhawan, Cheteshwar Pujara, Rohit Sharma, and Ajinkya Rahane, was led by Virat Kohli, making his debut as Test captain. Kohli announced himself in style, scoring a century in both innings. Australia, powered by centuries from David Warner, Michael Clarke, and Steve Smith, declared at 517. The young Indian batting line up responded with 444, showing resilience. In Australia's second innings, Warner struck another century, and they set India a challenging target of 364. Murali Vijay and Kohli led the chase, with Vijay getting out on 99 and Kohli making 141. However, Nathan Lyon’s seven-wicket haul spun India out, and Australia won by 48 runs.The 2018 Test marked a significant shift. For the first time in their Adelaide encounters, neither India nor Australia crossed 500 in their innings. Virat Kohli’s team, with a potent pace attack featuring Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, and the experienced Ishant Sharma, dominated. Cheteshwar Pujara stood tall with 121 in the first innings and a crucial 71 in the second. Australia, without Warner and Smith due to the ball-tampering scandal, struggled. India set a target of 323 for Australia, who fell short by 31 runs. India went on to win the series and become the first Asian team to win a Test series in Australia.The 2020 Test during the COVID-19 pandemic was a day-night affair with the pink ball, known for assisting swing. India posted 244 in their first innings, with Kohli scoring 74 before a crucial run-out, which some argue sparked his lean patch. Despite R. Ashwin’s 4-wicket haul, which helped bowl Australia out for 191, the match turned into a nightmare for India in their second innings. India was skittled for a shocking 36, their lowest-ever Test score, as Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins tore through the batting. Australia chased the target of 90 comfortably, winning by 8 wickets.Among active players from the visiting nation, Virat Kohli tops the list of leading run-scorers with 509 runs in 8 innings, including 3 centuries and 1 half-century. India has displayed exceptional performances at Adelaide Oval throughout the years, notwithstanding some challenging defeats. Since 2000, India has emerged victorious in two out of six Test matches, with the triumphs in 2003 and 2018 being particularly unforgettable. These encounters highlighted India's tenacity, especially with outstanding contributions from Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, Virender Sehwag, Virat Kohli, and Cheteshwar Pujara.Even in losses, India has demonstrated unwavering determination, as evidenced by the closely contested match in 2014. The pitch conditions at Adelaide Oval tend to favor India's adept batsmen and spinners, particularly in the later stages of the game, providing them with a competitive advantage. Considering their impressive track record and the indelible victories, it is reasonable to assert that Adelaide Oval could be regarded as India's home ground on Australian soil.

Australia's upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy clash against India has sparked anticipation, with Aussie opener Usman Khawaja heaping praise on legendary Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin. Khawaja lauded Ashwin's strategic brilliance and cricketing acumen, acknowledging his ability to stay a step ahead of the game.Ashwin's impressive record against Australia stands as a testament to his prowess. In 22 Test matches, he has claimed 114 wickets at an exceptional economy rate of 2.70. His 39 wickets on Australian soil further highlight his dominance.Khawaja's admiration for Ashwin stems from the spinner's ability to anticipate the batsman's moves and set cunning traps. "He is very strategic, he always has a plan," Khawaja remarked. "He always tries to figure it out. He is trying to get ahead of the game, one step ahead of the game, which I respect."The upcoming Border-Gavaskar series promises to be a thrilling contest, with India holding a slight edge over Australia in recent encounters. India has won its last four series against Australia, including two victories Down Under. This has shifted the balance of power in the rivalry, with India now boasting 10 series wins to Australia's five.The series will commence on November 22 with the first Test in Perth. The second Test, scheduled for December 6-10 at Adelaide Oval, will feature the exciting day-night format. The third Test will take place at The Gabba in Brisbane from December 14-18, followed by the customary Boxing Day Test at Melbourne's storied Melbourne Cricket Ground from December 26-30. The series will culminate with the fifth and final Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground from January 3-7.

Mohammed Shami Aspires for Bengal Comeback, Eyes Border-Gavaskar Trophy TriumphThe Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) recently held its Annual Award Ceremony, honoring exceptional achievements in cricket. Among the celebrated individuals was India's star fast bowler, Mohammed Shami, who received a special award for his outstanding performance during the Cricket World Cup 2023.During his acceptance speech, Shami expressed his desire to return to the Bengal team. The fast bowler, who has been sidelined from international cricket, aims to regain his place in the national squad by showcasing his skills in domestic tournaments."I definitely want to play for Bengal next season. I am looking forward to playing two to three matches for Bengal in Ranji. It will help me to make a comeback in international cricket. I have been training at the NCA and I want to play as and when I am 100 percent fit," Shami said, as quoted by IANS.Shami, who hails from Uttar Pradesh, was discovered while playing first-class cricket for Bengal. After debuting in 2011, he played 15 first-class and 15 List A matches before being selected for India's ODI squad to face Pakistan in Delhi in January 2013.Expressing his gratitude towards Bengal, Shami said, "I can't thank Bengal enough. I was born in a family in UP where there was no opportunity. So I often say I was born in UP but made in Bengal. This is a journey of 22 years and I am so grateful to Bengal for making me what I am. The love and warmth Bengal has shown will never be forgotten."Shami also shared his thoughts on the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy, set to begin in December. He believes that India are the favorites to defeat Australia in the five-match Test series later this year."I think India are favorites to win the series. In the last series in Australia, we played with a young team with a lot of senior players missing. But we proved we were the best. So I feel the next series will be competitive one and India will be victorious," Shami added.

Mitchell Starc Relishes Rivalry with Virat Kohli Ahead of Border-Gavaskar TrophyAustralian pace spearhead Mitchell Starc has expressed his excitement for the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy, where he will once again face off against Indian batting maestro Virat Kohli. The two cricketing giants have engaged in numerous intense battles over the years, and Starc relishes the opportunity to test his skills against Kohli."I enjoy my battles with Virat Kohli, it's because we've played a lot of cricket against one another," Starc told Star Sports. "I always have some good battles. I've managed to get him out once or twice and he's no doubt scored a fair few runs against me so it's always a good contest and one we both enjoy."The Border-Gavaskar Trophy, which begins on November 22 in Perth, will be the fifth consecutive series between India and Australia. India has emerged victorious in the previous four encounters, including triumphs on Australian soil in 2018-19 and 2020-21.Starc acknowledges India's dominance in recent years but remains confident in Australia's ability to challenge them. "India has been playing really well in the last few years, especially in their home conditions," he said. "But we're confident in our team and we know that if we play to our potential, we can beat anyone."The rivalry between Starc and Kohli is one of the most captivating in international cricket. Both players are known for their fierce competitiveness and unwavering determination. Starc's ability to generate pace and swing with the new ball makes him a formidable opponent, while Kohli's exceptional batting skills and leadership qualities have established him as one of the greatest batsmen of all time.The upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy promises to be another thrilling chapter in the Starc-Kohli rivalry. With both players in top form, fans can expect a series filled with high-quality cricket and intense battles.

Australia's veteran spinner Nathan Lyon has identified the three Indian batsmen he believes will pose the greatest threat in the upcoming Border Gavaskar Trophy series. The series will kick off with the first Test in Perth on November 22, followed by the second Test in Adelaide from December 6, the third Test in Brisbane from December 14, the fourth Test (Boxing Day Test) in Melbourne from December 26, and the fifth and final Test in Sydney from January 3.According to Lyon, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Rishabh Pant are the top three batsmen to watch out for in the series against Australia. Lyon acknowledged that facing the likes of Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, and Ravindra Jadeja, who will follow the trio, will be a significant challenge for the Australian team.In an interview with Star Sports, Lyon said: "Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Rishabh Pant are probably going to be the three really big ones. But then you've still got Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Jadeja, and who else will come out—another five, I'm not sure."Lyon emphasized the formidable nature of the Indian lineup. "But it's a pretty amazing line-up they've got, so it's going to be a massive challenge. As I said, if we, as a bowling group, are good enough for long periods, hopefully, we can challenge their defense," he said.The Indian team will embark on a challenging tour of Australia for a five-match Test series, commencing in November. Lyon's comments highlight the respect he has for the Indian batting lineup and the challenges that Australia will face in the upcoming series.