Cricket

Team India's head coach Gautam Gambhir addressed the media ahead of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, shedding light on various topics. Despite facing critical questions, Gambhir remained composed and provided insights into the team's plans for the Australia tour.Regarding Rohit Sharma's availability for the opening Test in Perth, Gambhir remained non-committal. However, he confirmed that Jasprit Bumrah would lead the team if Sharma missed out. "We will let you know exactly what the situation will be. Hopefully, he is going to be available," Gambhir said.Gambhir also discussed the opening partnership, stating that KL Rahul and Abhimanyu Easwaran were the top candidates to partner Yashasvi Jaiswal if Sharma was unavailable. He emphasized the importance of a strong opening partnership in setting the tone for the innings.Gambhir defended his players, particularly senior players who have faced criticism for their recent form. He expressed confidence in their abilities and highlighted the need for support and encouragement.However, former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar expressed his disapproval of Gambhir's press conference performance. Manjrekar suggested that Gambhir lacked the appropriate demeanor and communication skills for such interactions. He recommended that the BCCI consider keeping Gambhir away from press conferences and allowing him to focus on his behind-the-scenes role.Despite Manjrekar's criticism, Gambhir remained focused on the task at hand. He outlined the team's plans for the Australia tour, emphasizing the importance of preparation and adaptability. He expressed optimism about the team's chances of success and urged fans to support the players.

India's head coach Gautam Gambhir has expressed unwavering confidence in skipper Rohit Sharma and star batter Virat Kohli, asserting that they remain "incredibly hungry" to perform and will bounce back in Australia.Gambhir's comments come amidst concerns over India's recent 0-3 whitewash at home against New Zealand. However, the coach dismissed theories that he is under pressure, stating that he is honored to lead the Indian team."There are incredible people in the dressing room who have done a great job," Gambhir said. "I am not feeling the heat. It's an honor and privilege to coach the Indian team."Gambhir emphasized that the team is not undergoing a transition but is focused on the upcoming five-Test series against Australia. He acknowledged the presence of "incredibly tough characters" in the dressing room who are eager to prove themselves.Regarding the series-opening Perth Test, Gambhir confirmed that Jasprit Bumrah, as the designated vice-captain, will lead the side if Rohit Sharma is unavailable for personal reasons. He also mentioned that KL Rahul and Abhimanyu Easwaran are options for the opener's slot.Gambhir's unwavering support for Sharma and Kohli is significant, given their recent struggles with form. Sharma has not scored a century in over a year, while Kohli has not reached the three-figure mark in international cricket since November 2019.However, Gambhir believes that both players have the experience and determination to overcome their challenges. He pointed out that they have been through similar situations in the past and have always emerged stronger."They are still incredibly hungry to perform," Gambhir said. "They are not going to give up. They are going to keep fighting and keep trying to get better."India's tour of Australia will be a major test for the team, especially after their disappointing performance against New Zealand. However, Gambhir's confidence in his players suggests that they are ready to face the challenge head-on.

Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir has strongly defended star batters Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma against criticism from former Australian captain Ricky Ponting. Ponting had expressed concerns about the form of both players, who have struggled with the bat in recent times.Gambhir dismissed Ponting's comments, stating that they have no relevance to Indian cricket. He emphasized the importance of hunger and determination within the team, and praised Kohli and Sharma as "incredibly tough men."Kohli has endured a difficult 2024, with only two international fifties to his name. His struggles against spinners have been particularly evident in the 10 Test innings he played against Bangladesh and New Zealand.Despite India's 2-0 Test series victory over Bangladesh, Kohli managed only 99 runs at an average of 33.00. In the subsequent three-Test series against New Zealand, he scored just 93 runs at an average of 15.50, with only one score of 70.Rohit's poor form has also impacted his captaincy. In the four innings of the two Test matches against Bangladesh, he scored just 43 runs at an average of 10.50. Against New Zealand, he managed only 91 runs at an average of 15.16, with his highest score being 52.India's upcoming five-Test Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia will be crucial for both Kohli and Rohit. Kohli will be eager to rediscover his form in red-ball cricket, while Rohit will be looking to improve his captaincy and lead India to victory.India need to win four Tests in Australia to directly qualify for the World Test Championships final, which will be held at Lord's in June 2025.

Team India's head coach Gautam Gambhir has cast doubt over captain Rohit Sharma's availability for the first Test against Australia in Perth, starting November 22. Addressing the media in Mumbai, Gambhir stated that there was no confirmation on Rohit's participation and that a decision would be made before the series.In the event of Rohit's absence, Gambhir indicated that Abhimanyu Easwaran or KL Rahul would be considered for the opening slot. Rohit's potential absence would be a significant blow to India, as his presence as captain and top-order batsman has been crucial in recent years.Rohit's recent form has been a cause for concern, with the 37-year-old averaging just 10.50 in the two Tests against Bangladesh and 15.16 in the three Tests against New Zealand. His poor run has also impacted his captaincy, as he admitted to not being at his best as a skipper.India's tour of Australia is crucial, as they need to win four Tests to qualify directly for the World Test Championships final in June 2025. In Rohit's absence, vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah is expected to lead the team in the first Test.Gambhir emphasized that the team would select the best XI for the first Test and that a decision on Rohit's availability would be made before the match. India's hopes of a successful tour will hinge on the fitness and form of their key players, including Rohit Sharma.

India Embarks on Historic Border-Gavaskar Trophy Quest in AustraliaThe Indian cricket team has set sail for Australia, embarking on a pivotal five-Test series that will shape their World Test Championship aspirations. The Border-Gavaskar Trophy, commencing on November 22, 2024, holds immense significance for India, who seek redemption after a recent series loss.With a points percentage of 58.33%, India trails Australia in the World Test Championship standings. To remain in contention for the championship, they must emerge victorious in at least four of the five Tests. This series marks a historic milestone, as it will be the first time India and Australia will engage in a five-Test series on Australian soil since the inception of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.Rohit Sharma will lead the Indian charge, with Jasprit Bumrah serving as his deputy. The squad boasts a formidable lineup, including Virat Kohli, Shubman Gill, KL Rahul, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Abhimanyu Easwaran. Rishabh Pant returns as wicketkeeper, joined by newcomer Dhruv Jurel. The spin attack features the experienced trio of Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, and Washington Sundar. The pace attack comprises Mohammad Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Akash Deep, and Harshit Rana.The first Test will commence on November 22 in Perth, followed by Adelaide on December 6, Brisbane on December 14, Melbourne on December 26, and Sydney on January 3, 2025. India faces a daunting task, but they possess the talent and determination to overcome the challenges and emerge victorious.

Indian cricket team captain Rohit Sharma's participation in the upcoming Test series against Australia remains uncertain, as he is not expected to travel with the team to Australia for the first match. According to reports, Rohit's absence is due to personal reasons.The Indian squad is scheduled to depart for Australia in two batches on Sunday and Monday, but Rohit's travel plans are still up in the air. Head coach Gautam Gambhir will address the media in a pre-departure press conference in Mumbai on Monday, where he is expected to provide an update on Rohit's status.If Rohit misses the first Test, which begins on November 22 in Perth, vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah is likely to lead the team. Bumrah has been backed by Australian batting great Ricky Ponting to handle the dual responsibility of leading the team and spearheading the Indian pace attack.Ponting believes that Bumrah's experience and understanding of the game will enable him to manage the captaincy duties effectively. He also emphasized the importance of utilizing the experience of senior players in the team to support the captain.The Indian team will be hoping for Rohit to recover in time for the first Test, as his presence would provide a significant boost to their chances of success. However, if he is unable to play, Bumrah will be tasked with leading the team in one of the most challenging Test series in world cricket.

Jasprit Bumrah's leadership potential has been endorsed by former Australian captain Ricky Ponting, who believes the Indian pacer has the qualities to effectively lead the team in Rohit Sharma's absence.With Rohit Sharma's availability for the first Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test in Perth uncertain due to personal reasons, Bumrah emerges as a strong candidate to captain India. Ponting, who has witnessed Bumrah's leadership skills firsthand during the rescheduled fifth Test against England at Edgbaston, acknowledges the challenges of captaincy, especially for a bowler.However, Ponting draws parallels to Pat Cummins, the Australian Test captain, who has successfully balanced his bowling responsibilities with leadership duties. He emphasizes that experienced players like Bumrah understand when to bowl and when to rest, and often thrive under pressure and responsibility."Guys like that tend to thrive on the extra pressure and the responsibility," Ponting said. "He's always been the leader of the attack for a long time anyway. Whether that's red ball, T20, or ODIs, he's the main man."Ponting also highlights the presence of senior players like Virat Kohli, Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, and Rishabh Pant in the Indian team, who can provide valuable guidance to Bumrah."In that Indian team, there's a lot of experience around him," Ponting said. "And it's really important, I think, that you use the experience around you even when you are the captain, and just ask the appropriate questions at the right time."Ponting shares his own experience as Australia's Test captain, emphasizing the importance of seeking advice from experienced teammates. He credits Adam Gilchrist, Matthew Hayden, and Justin Langer as valuable sources of guidance during his captaincy."I liked to ask the questions of Gilchrist, Hayden, and Langer," Ponting said. "Ask them where they thought the game was, and what we needed to do. At the end of the day, as a captain, you're the one that's making that final decision, but whatever advice you can get along the way can only be good."With his experience, leadership qualities, and the support of senior players, Jasprit Bumrah is well-positioned to lead the Indian cricket team in Rohit Sharma's absence.

Fox Cricket Poster Controversy: Rohit Sharma Snubbed, Nathan McSweeney and Josh Inglis Earn Test CallsAustralian media channel Fox Cricket has sparked a social media storm with its poster for the upcoming Test series between India and Australia. The poster, featuring Pat Cummins and Virat Kohli, has drawn criticism for omitting Indian captain Rohit Sharma.Social media users were quick to point out the absence of Sharma, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest batters of all time. Many accused Fox Cricket of disrespecting the Indian skipper and questioned the decision to feature Kohli instead.The controversy has overshadowed the announcement of Australia's Test squad for the series opener in Perth on November 22. Uncapped Nathan McSweeney has been handed a surprise call-up to open the batting alongside Usman Khawaja, while Josh Inglis has been named as backup wicketkeeper to Alex Carrey.McSweeney, 25, has impressed with his consistent performances in the Sheffield Shield and his leadership qualities as captain of South Australia. Inglis, who moved to Perth from England at the age of 14, has also been rewarded for his strong domestic form.The pace unit will be led by skipper Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Josh Hazlewood, with Scott Boland as the reserve quick. Nathan Lyon remains the lone specialist spin option.The Test series between India and Australia is one of the most anticipated events in the cricketing calendar. The two teams have a long and storied rivalry, and the upcoming series promises to be another thrilling contest.However, the controversy surrounding Fox Cricket's poster has cast a shadow over the build-up to the series. The channel has been accused of bias and disrespect, and it remains to be seen how the issue will be resolved.

India's upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia has taken on heightened significance following their 3-0 loss to New Zealand. To qualify for the World Test Championship final without relying on other teams, India must defeat Australia in at least four of the five Tests.Amidst this crucial series, reports emerged that skipper Rohit Sharma might miss the first Test due to personal reasons. Former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar suggested that if Sharma is unavailable for the first two Tests, the team should appoint a new captain for the entire series.However, former Australian captain Aaron Finch disagreed with Gavaskar's opinion. Finch emphasized the importance of supporting Sharma during a significant personal moment, stating that he should take all the time he needs.Sharma's wife, Ritika Sajdeh, expressed her appreciation for Finch's stance. She reacted with a 'salute' emoji on an Instagram post highlighting both Gavaskar and Finch's comments.The debate over Sharma's potential absence has sparked discussions about the importance of leadership and team unity. Gavaskar believes that a captain is essential to guide the team, especially after a disappointing series loss. Finch, on the other hand, prioritizes personal well-being and believes that Sharma should not be penalized for attending to family matters.As the Border-Gavaskar Trophy approaches, the Indian team faces a crucial decision regarding Sharma's availability. The outcome of the series will have a significant impact on their chances of reaching the World Test Championship final.