Cricket

Team India's decision to cancel their practice match in Australia has drawn criticism from legendary cricketer Sunil Gavaskar. The team had initially planned to play a warm-up game against India A at the WACA ground before their opening Test match against Australia, which begins on November 22 at Perth Stadium.Gavaskar expressed his disbelief at the decision, stating that the batters needed the practice game, especially given their struggles against New Zealand at home. He pointed out that despite scoring over 400 in the second innings of the first Test in Bangalore, the Indian batters looked clueless in the subsequent innings against a spin attack that was not particularly dangerous.Gavaskar emphasized the importance of playing in real practice matches over just facing bowlers in net sessions. He acknowledged that some may argue that 'A' team bowlers might hold back against top players in practice games to avoid injuries, but he countered that in the nets, batters often face less prepared pitches and bowlers who sometimes bowl no-balls without penalty.He also highlighted the benefits for bowlers in playing proper matches, such as getting into a proper rhythm with their run-up and gaining confidence in not overstepping. He stressed that line and length are also aspects that can be learned in a proper game rather than in the nets.Gavaskar concluded by expressing his hope that the decision to cancel the warm-up game and reduce the match between the first and second Test against the Australian Prime Minister's XI to two days would prove to be the right one for Indian cricket. However, he emphasized that the batters and bowlers would have benefited greatly from the additional practice and match experience.

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.

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.

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.

Team India Prepares for Border-Gavaskar Trophy with Pre-Departure Press ConferenceAhead of the highly anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia, Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir will address the media in a pre-departure press conference on Monday at 9:00 AM at Ballroom 4, ITC Maratha in Mumbai.The press conference will provide an opportunity for Gambhir to discuss the team's preparations, strategies, and expectations for the challenging Test series. The Indian contingent will depart for Australia in two batches on November 10 and 11, with the first Test scheduled to begin in Perth on November 22.The tour will feature a highlight in the form of the pink-ball, day-night Test at Adelaide Oval from December 6 to 10. The third Test will take place at The Gabba in Brisbane from December 14 to 18, followed by the traditional Boxing Day Test at Melbourne Cricket Ground from December 26 to 30. The fifth and final Test is slated for January 3 in Sydney.India has enjoyed consecutive Test series wins in Australia, first under Virat Kohli's leadership in 2018-19 and then under Ajinkya Rahane in 2020-21. With Rohit Sharma now at the helm, the team will be aiming for a historic third straight series win on Australian soil.The press conference will provide insights into the team's mindset, preparations, and expectations for the upcoming series. Gambhir is expected to discuss the team's strengths, weaknesses, and strategies for countering the formidable Australian team.

Former India batter Aakash Chopra has vehemently dismissed rumors suggesting that head coach Gautam Gambhir could be ousted if the team fails to perform in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia. These rumors emerged after India's humiliating whitewash at home by New Zealand, marking their first Test series loss on home soil in nearly 12 years.A report in Dainik Jagran had claimed that Gambhir could be removed from his role in Test cricket if India fails to impress in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, which begins on November 22. The report also speculated that former India batter and current National Cricket Academy (NCA) chief VVS Laxman could be asked to take over.However, Chopra has strongly refuted this narrative, labeling it as "malicious intent." He emphasized that it is premature to consider such drastic measures after Gambhir's recent appointment as head coach."I feel it is an absolute rumor. This news seems absolutely baseless that if Team India doesn't perform well in Border-Gavaskar Trophy, then change the coach. Have different coaches for different formats. I'd say it's a little too soon. I see this rumor being floated around with malicious intent. Gambhir has just been made the head coach. It does not happen like this that if players are not performing, fire the coach. This is not the way. I do not agree with this thinking at all. I am discarding this kind of report," Chopra stated in a video on his YouTube channel.Nevertheless, Chopra acknowledged that Gambhir should be held accountable for the team's recent performance, given that the BCCI had granted all his requests, including the appointment of his own coaching staff."Whatever Gautam asked for, the BCCI gave him. Publicly, Gautam had said in the past that Team India should have Indian coaches but when he asked for Ryan ten Doeschate and Morne Morkel, the board agreed. When Gautam asked for senior players in Sri Lanka, the board said yes to it. Liberty was given in making pitches as well. When so much happens, then accountability is obvious," he added.India's tour of Australia will commence with the first Test in Perth on November 22. The team will be eager to redeem themselves after their disappointing home series against New Zealand.

Sanju Samson's scintillating century propelled India to a resounding 61-run victory in the series opener against South Africa in Durban. However, the lack of contributions from other key batters remains a concern heading into the second game in Gqeberha.Samson's 107-run knock from 50 balls, studded with seven fours and 10 sixes, powered India to a formidable 211/4. The Proteas, missing several key players, struggled to keep up with the pace and were restricted to 150/9.Despite the emphatic win, India's batting lineup has raised questions. Apart from Samson, only Suryakumar Yadav (33) and Hardik Pandya (29) made significant contributions. The likes of Abhishek Sharma, Rinku Singh, and Tilak Varma failed to make an impact.The weather forecast for the second T20I in Gqeberha is not promising. Rain is expected to arrive after the start of the match, around 6 PM local time (9:30 PM IST). The forecast predicts high chances of afternoon and evening showers, which could lead to interruptions and delays.Even if the overs are reduced, there is a high possibility that rain might return later in the day, which could eventually lead to the match being washed out. The temperature will fluctuate between 15 to 21 degree celsius throughout the day.For South Africa, the loss was a hard blow, marking their second consecutive defeat to India after their loss in the T20 World Cup final in June. With key players such as Quinton de Kock, Kagiso Rabada, Anrich Nortje, and Tabraiz Shamsi all missing from the squad, the Proteas are already struggling without some of their most experienced campaigners.The absence of these senior players will make the second T20I an uphill battle for South Africa, particularly with their recent form. Having lost 0-3 to the West Indies and drawn a series against Ireland, the Proteas will need improved performances from their senior players, including captain Aiden Markram, David Miller, and Heinrich Klaasen.

Virat Kohli Departs for Australia Amidst Crucial Border-Gavaskar TrophyIndian cricket star Virat Kohli was spotted at the Mumbai airport on Saturday night, departing for Australia ahead of the highly anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy. The Indian team embarks on a challenging tour Down Under, where they will face the formidable Australian side in a five-match Test series commencing on November 22 in Perth.Kohli, along with his family, was seen at the airport before his departure. Despite the presence of his family, Kohli graciously obliged to fans' requests for photographs, cheekily remarking, "I can't take pictures with you guys while holding my family back."The Border-Gavaskar Trophy has become even more crucial for the Indian team following their unprecedented home whitewash against New Zealand. To qualify for the World Test Championship final without relying on other teams' results, India must win four out of the five Tests in the upcoming series.Kohli's recent home season was below par, with scores of 6, 17, 47, 29*, 0, 70, 1, 17, 4, and 1 in the five Tests against Bangladesh and New Zealand. However, the Indian team will be hoping for a strong performance from their star batter in Australia.The Indian team will depart for Australia in two batches on November 10 and 11. The first batch, including Kohli, will arrive in Perth on November 12, while the second batch will join them on November 14.The Border-Gavaskar Trophy is a prestigious Test series between India and Australia, named after former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar and former Australian captain Allan Border. India has won the trophy three times, while Australia has won it nine times. The last series, held in Australia in 2018-19, was won by India 2-1.