Cricket

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.

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.

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.

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.

Virat Kohli, the talismanic Indian batter, has endured a dismal year in 2023, failing to cross the 100-run mark in six innings against New Zealand. As he embarks on a tour of Australia, a country where he has enjoyed success in the past, former India captain Sourav Ganguly has expressed confidence in Kohli's ability to regain his form and lead the team to victory.Ganguly believes that this could be Kohli's last tour of Australia, given his age and the team's future plans. He emphasized the importance of this series for Kohli, who will be eager to make a statement and prove that he is still a force to be reckoned with."He is a champion batter," Ganguly said. "He has had success in Australia in the past. He will want to make this series count, and he will also know this could be the last time he is touring Australia to play Test cricket. So, in every sense, this is a massive series for Kohli."Kohli's struggles in New Zealand have been attributed to the challenging pitches, which did not favor batting. Ganguly believes that the conditions in Australia will be more conducive to Kohli's style of play."In Australia, he will enjoy the conditions," Ganguly said. "There will be good pitches. I am backing Virat to deliver in Australia in this series."Kohli's record in Australia is impressive, with 1352 runs in 13 Tests at an average of 54.08, including six centuries. He will be hoping to add to that tally and help India secure a series victory Down Under.

Virat Kohli's exceptional batting prowess in Australia is a testament to his remarkable skills as a batsman. In his 13 Test matches on Australian soil, he has amassed an impressive 1352 runs at an average of 54.08, including six centuries and four half-centuries.Among his many memorable innings in Australia, one stands out as his most cherished, despite coming in a losing cause. During the 2018-19 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Kohli produced a masterful 123-run performance in Perth, a venue renowned for its lightning-fast and bouncy pitch. His knock, which included 13 boundaries and one six, remains his finest achievement in Australia."My best knock in Australia will definitely be my 100 at Perth. 2018-19 series that we played. I thought that was the toughest pitch that I played on in Test cricket. It was great to get a hundred on that tour," Kohli said in a video uploaded by the BCCI titled "Ask the Next One".Despite Kohli's brilliant century, India suffered a 146-run defeat in that match. However, the series saw India, captained by Kohli, secure victory in the first Test by 31 runs, followed by the Perth loss. They bounced back to win in Melbourne by 137 runs and drew in Sydney, clinching the four-match series 2-1.This victory marked India's first-ever Test series win on Australian territory, a testament to Kohli's leadership and the team's resilience. Kohli's exceptional record in Australia is a reflection of his ability to adapt to challenging conditions and perform at the highest level. His 123-run knock in Perth stands as a shining example of his batting prowess and his unwavering determination to succeed.

Indian Cricket Team's Lighthearted Photoshoot Highlights Camaraderie Ahead of Border-Gavaskar TrophyAs the highly anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy approaches, the Indian cricket team has engaged in a lighthearted and memorable photoshoot, offering fans a glimpse into their camaraderie and the playful banter that characterizes their interactions.Among the participants were Sarfaraz Khan, Mohammed Siraj, and the ever-charismatic Virat Kohli. In a moment captured by the BCCI's social media team, Sarfaraz and Siraj were heard calling Kohli a "legend" as he wrapped up his segment.Despite his ongoing struggles with consistency in all formats of the game, Kohli's stature as a global cricket icon continues to inspire those around him. In another playful interaction, KL Rahul was asked to name the most famous contact on his phone. Without hesitation, Rahul responded, "Virat Kohli," showcasing the batting maestro's unparalleled status both on and off the field.Beyond the lighthearted moments, the team's preparations for the series have been meticulous. Match simulations have been taking place to prepare Team India for one of the biggest challenges of the year. The Border-Gavaskar Trophy, starting November 22 at Perth's Optus Stadium, promises to be a thrilling showdown between two cricketing giants, India and Australia.With five intense Test matches on the cards, the series holds immense significance as both teams vie for supremacy in the longest format. India, led by Jasprit Bumrah in the absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma, will look to build on their historic success in Australia during their last two visits. Meanwhile, Australia, buoyed by home advantage and a formidable squad, will aim to reclaim their lost legacy against India.The Indian team's camaraderie and lighthearted interactions, as captured in the photoshoot, serve as a reminder of the team's unity and determination as they prepare for the challenges that lie ahead in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

Australian cricketer Travis Head anticipates a formidable performance from Indian star batsman Virat Kohli throughout the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy series. Head acknowledges Kohli's world-class batting abilities and emphasizes the importance of respecting his talent.Despite Kohli's recent dip in form, Head believes he will have his moments in the series. "He's a world-class player. Over the course of five Tests, he is going to play well at some stage. We have to understand and respect that," Head said.Head also expressed his understanding and support for Rohit Sharma's decision to prioritize family over the first Test match. "Hundred per cent, I support Rohit's decision. I would have done the same in the same situation," Head said.Despite Rohit's absence, Head cautioned against underestimating the Indian team. "If you look at our history, you would not rule out any Indian team. In the last two trips, they've had injuries and doubts, and people questioned them, but they pulled off incredible performances," Head said.Nathan Lyon, Australia's leading off-spinner, emphasized that the Australian bowling attack has strategies in place for every Indian batsman, not just Kohli. "We have got plans for each one of their guys. They have a side full of superstars, the batting lineup which is exciting, it is a massive challenge for us," Lyon said.Lyon expressed confidence in Australia's preparations and their anticipation for the series. "We are looking forward to that, we have some plans in store. Let's get cracking on Friday," Lyon said.The Border-Gavaskar Trophy series between Australia and India is set to commence on February 9th in Nagpur. The series will consist of four Test matches, with the second Test to be played in Delhi, the third in Dharamsala, and the fourth in Ahmedabad.

Virat Kohli, India's batting mainstay, has endured a lean patch in recent Test matches, averaging a mere 22.72 in six games this year. However, legendary Sunil Gavaskar believes that Kohli will bounce back with a vengeance in the upcoming Test series in Australia.Kohli has a remarkable track record in Australia, averaging an impressive 54.08. Gavaskar believes that this familiarity will give Kohli an edge against the formidable Australian bowling attack. "He's consistently performed at Adelaide, so it's a familiar ground for him," Gavaskar said. "And before Adelaide, it's Perth, where he played one of the finest Test centuries in 2018-19."Former India batsman Sanjay Manjrekar anticipates that Australia will target Kohli's off-stump line in the early stages of the series. "They'll start with that line outside the off stump and gauge what his mindset is," Manjrekar said. "Australia might also try to cramp him for room and attack his body since he likes to get forward."Manjrekar also highlighted the effectiveness of New Zealand's strategy of bowling on the middle stump to Kohli. "If he's focused on balls outside off stump, bowlers like Josh Hazlewood might target that typical Vernon Philander line on middle stump," he said.Despite the challenges, Gavaskar remains confident in Kohli's ability to overcome adversity. "Because he hasn't got runs against New Zealand, he'll be very, very hungry," Gavaskar said. "If he gets off to a good start, he will get big runs."Kohli's return to form will be crucial for India's chances of success in Australia. The team will need their star batter to lead the charge against a bowling attack that includes Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, and Nathan Lyon.