The IPL 2025 mega auction for the upcoming season marked several unexpected choices made by the franchises, as many players were picked for a considerably illogical amount of money while many crucial players who could be useful shortly were left unsold. 
 
While players like <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Faf_du_Plessis">Faf du Plessis</a> were picked considering their form despite their old age, David Warner, the retired IPL veteran, was left out unsold. Great English pacer Jimmy Anderson, who registered for the first time in IPL auction history, never got a bid as well. 
 
Though some decisions seemed imminent, as all predicted Pant to be the highest-bid player in the auction, while the likes of Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jos Buttler, and Yuzvendra Chahal seemed to have acquired their best-deserved prices. 
 
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<h2 dir="ltr" role="presentation">Jofra Archer</h2>
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The English bowling all-rounder was picked for a whopping INR 12.25 crore after a fierce bidding war between the Rajasthan Royals and the Mumbai Indians. Eventually the Royals got back their old hat. 
 
However, given Jofra's weak form and frequent injuries, Archer didn't appear to be a likely player in the long run. Hence, fans have railed against him as not a very conventional pick, especially owing to his high purse. 
 
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<h2 dir="ltr" role="presentation">Venkatesh Iyer</h2>
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Venky Iyer, one of the two Iyers who received a lump sum amount of money in the auction, was picked by the Kolkata Knight Riders for a huge INR 23.75 crore. With due respect to the players caliber in the game, none anticipated this insane amount of money spent for the MP all-rounder. 
 
KKR signed a middle-order batsman in him, with him not bowling very often with the white ball; hence, for KKR fans as well as the cricket fans, this is among the worst picks in the history of the IPL.
 
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<h2 dir="ltr" role="presentation">Jitesh Sharma </h2>
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Punjab Kings fame Jitesh Sharma, the wicketkeeper batsman, was picked this time by the Royal Challengers Bangalore for a huge INR 11 crore. This seemed like a very abrupt choice, as the player has neither shown promising form nor does his record in the domestic or IPL format impress enough for this huge amount of money. 
 
Sharma will be one of the players in the RCB middle order, adding power to their long middle order comprising several power hitters. Yet for a team lacking all-rounders and proper long-scoring batters, Jitesh doesn’t seem to be a good pick. 
 
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<h2 dir="ltr" role="presentation">Abdul Samad </h2>
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LSG made some insane choices this time around; despite having retained Pooran, the explosive left-handed wicketkeeper-batter, for a huge amount, they included Pant for INR 27 crores, the highest-ever bid made in the IPL. 
 
Samad, who played for J&amp;K, has never sparked in the IPL, playing the previous editions for Sunrisers Hyderabad. Samad is known as a big-hitting finisher, yet including him for INR 4.2 crores doesn’t seem to be a calculated move. 
 
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<h2 dir="ltr" role="presentation">Shreyas Iyer</h2>
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Shreyas Iyer, this name suggests otherwise in this list, as the ex-KKR title-winning skipper has many reasons to acquire a huge amount of money. Iyer has shown promising form in both the IPL and other domestic games, and he is currently one of the best batters in the IPL. 
 
Ponting and Co. have picked Iyer. It seems a bit unwarranted to cite his supreme form and his antics as a skipper, despite the amount they spent bidding on the player, as social media is rife with Iyer having not done anything to manifest this big bid.

ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/Veteran-cricketer-Ajinkya-Rahane-emerges-as-the-frontrunner-for-captaining-Kolkata-Knight-Riders-in-IPL-2025/">Rahane emerges as the frontrunner for KKR captaincy in the IPL 2025</a>

A list of the most controversial picks in the IPL 2025 (Image Credit: X)

From the highest-bidding LSG to the PBKS, who had the biggest purse into the mega-auction, here is a good look into the most controversial bids made in the IPL 2025 mega-auction; social media has a say.

After the IPL mega-auction, here is a set of the most controversial picks made in the IPL 2025 auction

Social media makes a mockery of franchises for their choices of these players: Top 5 Most Controversial Signings of IPL 2025

Social-media-makes-a-mockery-of-franchises-for-their-choices-of-these-players:-Top-5-Most-Controversial-Signings-of-IPL-2025

India pacer Jasprit Bumrah is the main reasons why the team fighting hard in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. The fast bowler has been single-handedly carrying the bowling lineup of the team in the ongoing series, making him extremely important for the last three games. 
Jasprit Bumrah, however, faced a massive injury scare during the second Test, which was a pink-ball game in Adelaide. During the first innings, the fast bowler was down on the pitch as he experienced discomfort in his leg while bowling with the second new ball. 
Jasprit Bumrah, although, kept bowling in that innings, but the intensity surely wasn't the same. The fast bowler then, in the second innings, bowled just one over, and what caught the attention of many was he was down with the speed. He bowled in mid 120s, which surely is something which he doesn't bowls. 
As India started their preparations for the Brisbane Test, which will begin on 14th December, Jasprit Bumrah was the notable absentee in the session. It was reported that the fast bowler didn't join the nets to keep his workload in control, especially with three more games remaining in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. 
However, as per the reports on SEN Radio, the fast bowler was seen spending time with the strength and conditioning coach. This has made many speculate about his availability for the third game of the series, which currently stays levelled at 1-1. 
<h2>There’s got to be some serious doubts - Damien Fleming on Jasprit Bumrah</h2>
With a lot of concerns over Jasprit Bumrah's injury, former Australian cricketer Damien Fleming, speaking on SEN Radio, gave a massive update about the fitness of the pacer. He believes that there are serious doubts over the fast bowler. He explained: 
“There’s got to be some serious doubts. Siraj might be workload [related], but I’m bemused. Bumrah bowled that over. They could have hidden this. They showed their hand." 
<h2>There’s no way that’s cramp - Damien Fleming on Jasprit Bumrah</h2>
Damien Fleming also criticised India skipper Rohit Sharma for giving Jasprit Bumrah bowling in the second innings when he wasn't fit. He stressed that it wasn't the cramp that the pacer suffered. He added: 
“There’s no way that’s cramp. He was very ginger after the break in the first innings. He bowled again, not quite as slow second innings. I don’t even know why he bowled that over [in the second innings]. That actually gave some secrets away to everyone.” 
Jasprit Bumrah has made a massive impact in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. The fast bowler is the leading wicket-taker in the series so far with 12 scalps in two games. India management would be hoping that the fast bowler recovers before the next game.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/3-strong-reasons-why-rohit-sharma-should-open-the-innings-for-india-in-3rd-test-at-gabba/#google_vignette">3 Strong Reasons why Rohit Sharma should open the innings for India in 3rd Test at Gabba</a>

India pacer Jasprit Bumrah is the main reasons why the team fighting hard in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25.

Jasprit Bumrah injured ahead of the Brisbane Test? Massive update comes with "There’s got to be some serious doubts" statement

Jasprit-Bumrah-injured-ahead-of-the-Brisbane-Test-Massive-update-comes-with-There’s-got-to-be-some-serious-doubts-statement

IND vs AUS: Rohit Sharma missed the first test in Perth, which India won by 295 runs. The Indian captain joined the team ahead of the day-night test and led the team in Adelaide. He decided to bat in the middle order and let KL Rahul bat at the top. But it didn't turn out well for both of them.
Rahul had a poor outing in Adelaide, and Rohit had an even more horrible test, scoring only 3 and 6 in two innings. That has certainly put him under a lot of pressure, and the media has started talking once again. The third test will be played at the Gabba, which will begin on December 14.
India need to win the remaining games to qualify for the WTC 2023-25 final. Rohit has scored 142 runs at an average of 11.82 since the home series against Bangladesh. His form is a big worry for India, but his batting position is another big question. However, we will talk about three key reasons why him batting at the top will be beneficial for India.
<h2>IND vs AUS: Three Strong Reasons Why Rohit Sharma should bat at the top in Gabba Test</h2>
<h3>3. Formidable pairing with Yashasvi Jaiswal</h3>
Though KL Rahul played brilliantly in Perth and added a record stand of 21 with Jaiswal. But if we look at the ground reality, Rohit has done well whenever he has batted with Jaiswal in tests. These two have played together in 26 innings and scored 1236 runs as a pair.
The highest stand between the two teams is 229, and these are the sixth-best numbers for an opening pair in Indian cricket history. With a lot depending on the third test, India should go with the proven pair, which has done the job in the recent past for them.
<h3>2. KL Rahul's ability to bring flexibility to middle order</h3>
Though Rahul started his career as an opener but the last couple of years have shown that he has adapted to the situation of batting in the middle order. The best example was in the ODI World Cup 2023.
Rahul can play a long innings if the top order fails and is someone who can be good when the ball gets old. That is why if he bats at no. 5 or 6, he can give more flexibility to the top order than Rohit Sharma.
<h3>1. Rohit Sharma at top - A Proven match-winner</h3>
Rohit Sharma didn't start as an opener; he was a middle-order batter until MS Dhoni gave him a chance at the top. But since then, there was no stopping back, and he is among the best all-format openers in the world. In test, he opened for the first time in 2019. He has played in swinging conditions in SENA countries and done well as an opener.
As an opener, he has scored 2685 runs in 64 innings at an average of 44.02. It includes nine centuries and 8 half-centuries. Though his current form is concerning but his numbers back him as an opener for the Gabba Test.

Rohit Sharma scored nine runs in the second test at Adelaide Oval. He batted at no. 6 in the batting order. Questions have been raised over his batting position and form.

Rohit Sharma scored nine runs in the second test at Adelaide Oval. He batted at no. 6 in the batting order.

3 Strong Reasons why Rohit Sharma should open the innings for India in 3rd Test at Gabba

3-strong-reasons-why-rohit-sharma-should-open-the-innings-for-india-in-3rd-test-at-gabba

Former Indian Head coach Ravi Shastri has come up with a suggestion for the Indian team and Mohammed Siraj going into the Brisbane Test against Australia. He wants the Rohit Sharma-led side to not hold back and fight with fire. 
The Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 is peaking as both India and Australia have played a terrific brand of cricket. While the competition has been high between bat and ball, players have engaged in some heated battles as well and this has raised the intensity of the series. 
All the eyes will be on Mohammed Siraj and Travis Head going into the Brisbane Test. The two were engaged in a verbal spat during the Adelaide Test, and with the way they were involved in a fight, it has become a massive topic of discussion in the media. 
The series between the two teams is levelled at 1-1, and the third game is all set to take place on Saturday (14th December). The match will be played at the Gabba in Brisbane, and with the way the last two games have panned out, it promises to be an exciting clash. 
Ravi Shastri took the side of Mohammed Siraj amid his battle with Travis Head, saying that it was a reaction from the fast bowler after getting hit for a six. While calling both players mature, he said: 
“I’m sure Siraj and Head are mature individuals who will deal with it and the dust would have settled already. If anything, I wouldn’t have expected anything else from a fast bowler after he’d been hit for a six. Siraj was letting off some steam. That’s the fast bowler’s temperament. You want it to be like that." He wrote in a column for CODE Sports. 
<h2>Do not hold back one bit - Ravi Shastri's message to India </h2>
Ravi Shastri further said that when he was the Indian coach, he used to tell his players to not hold back. He urged the current team to not take a backward step and wants them to fight with fire. 
"When I was playing, my philosophy was to give it back as good as you get. And it’s exactly what I would tell my players when I was coaching India in Australia. Do not hold back one bit. 
“Do not take even one backward step. It then became the team’s philosophy and everyone from Virat Kohli to Rishabh Pant and every member of the squad was prepared to give it back to the Aussies.”
<a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/India-vs-Australia:-ICC-responded-with-strict-actions-to-the-verbal-misconduct-between-Travis-Head-and-Mohammed-Siraj-in-Adelaide/">India vs Australia: ICC responded with strict actions to the verbal misconduct between Travis Head and Mohammed Siraj in Adelaide</a>

Former Indian Head coach Ravi Shastri has come up with a suggestion for the Indian team and Mohammed Siraj going into the Brisbane Test against Australia.

All the eyes will be on Mohammed Siraj and Travis Head going into the Brisbane Test

Mohammed Siraj vs Travis Head: India pacer ordered to fight with fire in Brisbane

Mohammed-Siraj-vs-Travis-Head:-India-pacer-ordered-to-fight-with-fire-in-Brisbane

The Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 is evenly poised at 1-1 after both India and Australia came up with two brilliant performances in the first two games. It's now time for the third match, which will be played at the Brisbane in Gabba from Saturday (10th December). 
India is under immense pressure, having lost the second Test in a shambolic way. They were at the receiving end of a 10-wicket thrashing at the hands of Australia in a pink-ball game, and the way they played in the match has raised a lot of questions about their batting, which failed in both innings. 
Going into the third game, India will be underdogs, but the way they have risen from pressure and situations has been a standout for them. They cannot afford to lose the game as well because it would cost them a place in the final of the <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/has-indias-defeat-in-the-adelaide-test-shattered-their-dream-of-qualifying-for-the-wtc-final-know-their-qualification-scenario/">ICC World Test Championship</a>. 
Their playing 11 for the third Test has become the major talking point and in this piece, we will take a look at that. 
<h2>India Playing 11 for the third Test against Australia </h2>
Openers - Rohit Sharma and Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill at 3 
There are chances that Rohit Sharma will be back in the opening spot, having played the last match in the middle order. The batter sacrificed his place for KL Rahul in the second Test as he, along with Yashasvi Jaiswal, scripted history in Perth with their opening partnership. 
But with both Rohit struggling in the middle order and Rahul too not making runs in the last game, there are chances that the captain might be back at the top for the Brisbane Test. 
Yashasvi Jaiswal will be the other opener, as the batter proved his worth in the first game with a massive century. He looked solid in the second game as well but couldn't play another big innings. He would be hoping to replicate his effort from the first game in the third Test. 
At No.3, Shubman Gill will likely be there. He looked like the best Indian batter in the pink-ball Test in both innings. However, big runs, too, didn't come from him as he was bagged in the hut after having started. A lot would be reliant on him in the next game as well.
Middle order - Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant and KL Rahul 
Virat Kohli will be leading the charge in the middle order. The batter failed in both the innings of the pink-ball Test and will be key for India in Brisbane. He has looked in decent touch as he slammed a vital century in the Perth and would be keen to carry on that form in what will be the crucial game for the game. 
Rishabh Pant will be keeping the wickets and would want to play the way he has been playing. In the last two games, he has come to bat under pressure and has been making runs with his ability to score runs with counter-attack. Along with him, KL Rahul will likely be there in the middle order. The right-hander has a great record in the middle-order too.
All-rounders - Nitish Kumar Reddy and Washington Sundar 
Nitish Kumar Reddy has been the biggest positive for India in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. With the way he has batted down the order, the batter has impressed many and would be hoping to carry on the same form in the upcoming few games. 
Washington Sundar is also expected to make a comeback to the team. He was replaced by Ravichandran Ashwin in the last game, but the senior pro failed to make an impact with bat and ball, and hence it is expected that Sundar will be back. The all-rounder was impressive with bat and ball in Perth and also has a great record at Perth. 
Pacers - Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj and Harshit Rana 
The Indian pace battery for the third Test against Australia is expected to be the same. Jasprit Bumrah is currently the leading wicket-taker in the series, while Mohammed Siraj has backed him up well. Harshit Rana looked off colours in the second game, but it is likely that he will be backed by team management.

The Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 is evenly poised at 1-1 after both India and Australia came up with two brilliant performances in the first two games

India is under immense pressure, having lost the second Test in a shambolic way.

India playing 11 for the third Test prediction

India-playing-11-for-the-third-Test-prediction

The Indian Cricket Team's 10-wicket defeat versus the Mighty Australians in the Adelaide Test-Match has hurt them in many ways. This defeat has not only made their chances of winning the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series difficult, but it has also hampered their chances of qualifying for the final of the 2023-2025 World Test Championship (WTC) cycle. The Men in Blue have now slipped to the third position in the overall standings of the World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-2025 cycle
Talking about the WTC Points Table, the Proteas are sitting at the top of the Overall Standings with a good 63.33 PCT. Their recent 2-0 series win over Sri Lanka helped them to displace the Australians at the top of the table. The Aussies are at the 2nd spot with a 60.71 PCT next to their name. 
Additionally, Team India were the table toppers, but their embarrassing 10-wicket defeat in the Adelaide Test-Match has changed everything in a single go.
<h1></h1>
<h1>One more defeat will end India's hopes of qualifying for their third-successive WTC Final</h1>

The currently ongoing five-match Test-Series (BGT) between India and Australia is currently level at 1-1. Three more matches are left to be played in the series and if the Men in Blue end up on the losing side even in one single contest, then their hopes of qualifying for a successive WTC Final will come to an end. 
If the Rohit Sharma-led team draws one match and secures victories in the other two contests, then their hopes will remain alive. However, to cement their spot in the Final of the 2023-2025 World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, they will have end up on the winning side in all of the remaining three BGT Test-Matches. 

<h1>What are the qualification equations for Rohit Sharma &amp; CO? </h1>

If the Rohit Sharma-led team defeats the Mighty Australians by a margin of 3-2, then they will remain in the top two of the overall standings.
Following the end of the 2024 Border-Gavaskar Trophy series, Pat Cummins and his men will be travelling to Sri Lanka to take part in a two-match Test-Series. It will not be easy for the Aussies to secure a victory in the spin-friendly conditions of the island nation. 
South Africa on the other hand are slated to square off versus Pakistan in a home two-match Test-Series. They are anticipated to secure a victory in that series. In such a scenario, the race to reach the all-important title-deciding WTC Final clash between South Africa, India &amp; Australia has heated up and it has become very exciting.

Do Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/India-vs-Australia:-ICC-responded-with-strict-actions-to-the-verbal-misconduct-between-Travis-Head-and-Mohammed-Siraj-in-Adelaide/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">India vs Australia: ICC responded with strict actions to the verbal misconduct between Travis Head and Mohammed Siraj in Adelaide</a>

Senior batters Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma walk back after India's loss in Adelaide | Image: Associated Press

WTC Final Scenario: After suffering a 10-wicket defeat in Adelaide, the path to reach the final of the World Test Championship has become very difficult for India. They have to win the series versus fierce-rivals Australia at any cost if they want to have any chances of making it to their third consecutive WTC Final. In this article, we will be taking a look at Indian's WTC Final qualification scenarios

Has India's defeat in the Adelaide Test shattered their dream of qualifying for the WTC Final? Know their Qualification-Scenario

has-indias-defeat-in-the-adelaide-test-shattered-their-dream-of-qualifying-for-the-wtc-final-know-their-qualification-scenario

India pacer Mohammed Siraj has been called out by the ex-India captain Kris Srikkanth for his fierce send-off to the Australia batter Travis Head. The fast bowler was called brainless and mad by a former Indian selector for his antics during the Adelaide Test. 
Mohammed Siraj has been in the headlines since Day 2 of the Adelaide Test, which was a pink-ball game against the Australia National Cricket Team. This was because of the send-off that he gave to Travis Head, who hit a brutal century in the first innings. 
Travis Head took the game away from India with his brutal batting and made sure that he helped his team win the match. The batter played a glorious innings and slammed a magical century. What caught the attention of many was the way he played, which was quite aggressive and brutal. 
Travis Head showed no mercy on the Indian bowlers as he hit them out of the park. The batter also slammed Mohammed Siraj for a six but that didn't go well with the fast bowler as on the very next ball, he removed the batter with his pinpoint yorker and sent him packing. 
As Mohammed Siraj removed Travis Head, he came up with the aggressive send-off. The bowler celebrated wildly, and then the batter too didn't take that well as he said some harsh words, and then the matter got serious and was all over the news in Australia. 
<h2>Hey Siraj, don't you have brains? What are you doing? - Kris Srikkanth </h2>
But amid all this, former India selector Kris Srikkanth lashed out at Mohammed Siraj for his send-off to Travis Head. He called fast bowler's Sledging to batter as rubbish. Speaking in a video posted on his YouTube channel, he explained: 
"He has smashed the bowling mercilessly. Hey Siraj, don't you have brains? What are you doing? Have you gone mad? He smashed you left, right and centre. He hit boundaries and sixes effortlessly in his knock of 140. You're giving him a send-off 0after that. Is this called Sledging? What rubbish is this? It's just madness,
<h2>One batter has scored 140. Give him credit, and applaud his knock - Kris Srikkanth on Mohammed Siraj </h2>
Kris Srikkanth further added Mohammed Siraj should've applauded Travis Head for his knock. While pointing out that the batter smashed bowlers all over the park, they said that India had no answers to the onslaught. He added: 
"One batter has scored 140. Give him credit, and applaud his knock. Instead of saying 'brilliant knock', you're giving him a send-off? As if, you got him out on 10 or 0, as if you planned it and got his wicket! He smashed you all over. The Indian bowlers had no answers to Head's onslaught. 140 off 141 balls. Look at that. He hit sixes at will. He didn't treat Ashwin as a spinner, he is dancing down the track and smashing him,"  
<a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/south-africa-displaces-australia-at-the-top-of-the-wtc-standings-following-their-win-vs-sri-lanka-updated-wtc-points-table/">Both Travis Head and Mohammed Siraj were penalised by the ICC for their antics</a>. But after the game ended, they also clarified the talks between them.

India pacer Mohammed Siraj has been called out by the ex-India captain Kris Srikkanth for his fierce send-off to the Australia batter Travis Head

Mohammed Siraj called mad and brainless as Ex-India captain slams him for his 'rubbish' behaviour against Travis Head

Mohammed-Siraj-called-mad-and-brainless-as-Ex-India-captain-slams-him-for-his-rubbish-behaviour-against-Travis-Head

Australia is all set to be boosted by the inclusion of Josh Hazlewood for the third Test against India. His availability for the Brisbane Test will be depicted within the next 24 hours. The match is all set to take place from 14th December (Saturday). 
Josh Hazlewood, who was the best Australia pacer in the first Test, missed the Adelaide game due to a side strain. However, the fast bowler has been putting in hard yards and is nearing full fitness. This surely will be a massive problem for India as he arguably is a most threatening bowler from Australian side.
After the Test against India concluded, Josh Hazlewood bowled a top-pace spell and was examined by the medical team. The fast bowler was the only player in action as he delivered two spells, making his case strong for the third Test of the series. 
<h2>I think it'll be how I pull up in the 24 hours following it - Josh Hazlewood on his fitness </h2>
While talking about his fitness, Josh Hazlewood revealed that a call related to his availability for the third Test would be taken after 24 hours. He also added that he has ticked a few boxes right, and he is hopeful of returning. Speaking to Fox Cricket, he explained: 
"I think it'll be how I pull up in the 24 hours following it. It’s just that repetitive (action) and obviously two spells makes a big difference. 
"Cooling down pretty much fully and then going again on the same day, and the intensity has got to be right up there as well. So a few boxes to tick, but it's probably the 24 hours that follow and pulling up again the next day and then thinking 'yeah, I'd be right to go again if I had to'." 
Should Josh Hazlewood be fit for the third Test, Australia will have to take a call between him and Scott Boland for the match. The latter was pretty impressive in the second match as he picked 5 wickets across two innings in the pink-ball Test and helped India win. 
If Josh Hazlewood gets fit for the third Test, it will be a huge boost for Australia and a problem for India. The Pat Cummins-led side have enjoyed playing their cricket in Gabba, Brisbane. However, when the two teams collided at the venue last time, it saw India winning the match and creating history.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/Rift-in-the-Indian-dressing-room-Adelaides-loss-fuels-rumours-of-division-in-coaching-staff/#google_vignette">Rift in the Indian dressing room? Adelaide's loss fuels rumours of division in coaching staff</a>

Australia is all set to be boosted by the inclusion of Josh Hazlewood for the third Test against India

Josh Hazlewood, who was the best Australia pacer in the first Test, missed the Adelaide game due to a side strain against India

More-problems-for-India-Australia-set-to-be-boosted-by….

India suffered a shambolic loss in the second Test against Australia. They were at the receiving end of the 10-wicket thrashing at the hands of hosts in the pink-ball Test as they took perfect revenge for the Perth Test and levelled the series. 
India looked extremely horrible with bat and ball and was clueless throughout the game, which concluded in just three days. All the batters failed to go big, and then the bowlers too struggled to control the pink ball and pick early wickets happened in the Perth Test, which the visitors won by 295 runs. 
However, the loss in the second Test seems to have created tensions among the Indian camp. The rumours of the rift have started to fuel, and this came, especially after the Indian coaching staff conducted the net sessions just after the team's loss in the Adelaide Test.
<h2> There have been rumours of a rift between the Indian coaching staff</h2>
There have been rumours of a rift between the Indian coaching staff, and this came after bowling coach Morne Morkel, assistant coaches Abhishek Nayar and Ryan ten Doeschate, and fielding coach T. Dilip were seen having an intense chat among themselves while standing in the middle of nets. 
What fuelled rumours of the rift was head coach Gautam Gambhir was not there, and the rest of the coaches were having talks among themselves when it should been with the head coach. Also, Abhishek Nayar's finger-pointing gesture towards Morne Morkel didn't go well with many and sparked rumours of division. 
The picture of this was posted by a Journalist of RevSportz, and it sparked various rumours about the rift. Here's the picture:
<img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202412/image_870x_6756849961a7a.jpg" alt="">
India played the first Test in Perth with a positive mindset. They were all over the opposition with bat and ball. However, it was a completely different effort in the second Test. The Adelaide game also was the shortest match down under as it lasted just 1031 balls across four innings.

India suffered a shambolic loss in the second Test against Australia in Adelaide.

India looked extremely horrible with bat and ball in Adelaide.

Rift in the Indian dressing room? Adelaide's loss fuels rumours of division in coaching staff

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IND vs AUS 3rd Test: The Border-Gavaskar Trophy is at the level with a 1-1 scoreline. All the speculations of India dominating the rest of the series after the Perth victory were left untouched just after the three-day Pink-ball test match.
How dramatically the tides have shifted for the visitors since Jasprit Bumrah led the side. India appeared on track to assert their supremacy over Australia and the entire Border-Gavaskar Trophy after a stunning and unforeseen triumph at Perth Stadium, defying expectations and expert predictions.
However, the scenario changed drastically with Rohit Sharma taking the lead over. Unfortunately for him, most of his tactics and plans at the Adelaide Oval failed to deliver, leaving the team struggling to regain momentum.
The aftermath of the Adelaide loss is unlikely to see the Indian team facing the same level of harsh criticism or being written off as the Australians were following their defeat in Perth. The scrutiny is often harsher and more unforgiving for the home side. Besides, India has earned some goodwill thanks to their commanding performance in the opening Test, which still adds weight to their campaign.
Let's take a look at the areas where the Indian team could make a change or improvement before going to the third Test:
<h2>The Changes India could make for the IND vs AUS 3rd Test</h2>
India faces a tough challenge with the short turnaround before the third Test in Brisbane. It will be a test of resilience for the bowlers to recover in time and for Jasprit Bumrah to sustain his exceptional energy levels. For the batting unit, the focus will be on finding much-needed consistency to support the team’s efforts in this crucial match.
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Mindset: Yes! There is a need to have an attacking and aggressive mindset of the entire team for the remaining three matches. From the Siraj-Head incident, the Indian Team can take this as a challenge and quite the whole of Australia right at the Gabba. 
Rohit Sharma has won many test matches for India with his style of leading. He has a wonderful mix of aggression and calmness but that just might not be sufficient for the conditions we are in!
Combination: For combination, Why? There is definitely no room for any change in the playing11 as of now. What would you change? Rohit, Jaiswal, Gill, Kohli, KL Rahul, Pant, and Nitish Reddy are just untouchables in the current scenario and the fast Bowling unit is also giving out their full. However, the skipper could think of replacing Jadeja with Ashwin, as he provides better batting but it is not that necessary. 
Position: Not much to change in the team combination but one thing is for sure, i.e., batting order. Ravi Shastri, Sunil Gavaskar, and many others said on air, that they didn't see any reason for Rohit Sharma to bat down the order now. He has been his best when batted top of the order and that position gave birth to the New Rohit Sharma and he must return to the top order. 
Now, after all, India had bad batting days at Adelaide, inefficient bowling, and they were lacking confidence for sure. The Men in Blue are sure to bounce back as they have done in the past. A complete team game and supporting each other is going to win us the Gabba Test once again. 
READ: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/Whats-next-for-Rohit-Sharma-Test-failures-spark-calls-for-his-retirement/">What's next for Rohit Sharma? Test failures spark calls for his retirement</a>

Mindset, Combination, or Else! What Changes could India make for the IND vs AUS 3rd Test

India again lost the all-hyped pink ball test and now all eyes are on Rohit Sharma and management for the third test. India could learn a lot from their mistakes at Adelaide Oval and let's look at the improvements that India could make.

The loss of India in the second match of the series has put the scoreline 1-1. Are there going to be any big changes in the team India? Let's find out.

Mindset, Combination, or Else! What Changes could India make for the IND vs AUS 3rd Test at Gabba?

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The WTC standings saw a major change in the rankings after the dramatic Adelaide win of Australia over the visitors, India, who didn’t seem very confident facing the pink ball, as even their skipper admitted to not having batted well. 
 
On the other hand, a simultaneous series held between South Africa and visitors Sri Lanka is at its all-time high, with the Proteas looking strong to make another major shift in the points table with a win in the ongoing second test at Gqeberha. 
 
With teams like England, Pakistan, and New Zealand ruled out of contention for any further chances for qualification despite all-win situations, only the top four teams are left with scanty to large chances for qualification. 
 
<h2 dir="ltr">Let’s take a good look at the WTC final qualification scenarios for the franchises: </h2>
 
<h3 dir="ltr">India </h3>
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The table toppers for the last three editions of the WTC have slipped down to the lowest ever in their WTC history. India has never left the top two spots since 2019 when the first WTC cycle began; however, after the pink-ball test loss, they now stand at an all-time low at the no. 3 position behind the Aussies and Proteas. 
 
India is left with 3 matches in the WTC campaign, which will be played against Australia in the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Border%E2%80%93Gavaskar_Trophy">Border-Gavaskar Trophy</a>, and now the Indian side needs to manage 2 wins and a draw to make their way through to the finals. 
 
No. of wins needed from remaining matches: 2 wins and a draw
 
<h3 dir="ltr">Australia </h3>
 
The current table toppers also do not look very firm at the top, as South Africa, with a dominating victory, can take the position of the table toppers as a fight ensues for the two final spots in the WTC. 
 
However, as of now, for the defending champions and to the joy of Pat Cummins, Australia needs to win only 3 of their remaining test matches, which are scheduled in this WTC. 
 
3 matches to be played in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against India
2 matches to be played against Sri Lanka
 
With a three-match home advantage, the Australians can fancy their chances to win at least 2 games and retain themselves at the top, as any further wins for India already eradicate their qualification chances, which makes the Aussies the second favorite. 
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<h3 dir="ltr">South Africa </h3>
 
The Proteas have always been drafted as one of the greatest teams to have played the longest format of the game; however, their record has never been great since the WTC began. 
 
This time around, however, Temba Bavuma has turned the tables for the Proteas, as they are the likely team to fancy their chances most in the WTC final, playing all their remaining tests at home. 
 
South Africa will play their last match against Sri Lanka with a decider awaited today, while their next two matches come under home conditions against Pakistan, a not-so-confident side this WTC. 
 
With a 2-win situation in the remaining games at home, South Africa currently looks like the most dominant side for one of the spots in the WTC final. 
 
<h3 dir="ltr">Sri Lanka </h3>
 
The Lankans are undoubtedly one of the teams in the WTC that have posed a major threat to many teams like New Zealand and England under both home and away conditions. 
 
With still slim chances of a win remaining against the Proteas in the second test, they can turn the tables to their end and play their remaining home tests against Australia with huge confidence. 
 
Sri Lanka has a stunning home record this WTC, and hence they impose a serious threat to the Aussies, as Sri Lanka is in an all-win situation to make their WTC chances assured for the first time. 
 
The likes of England, Pakistan, New Zealand, the West Indies, and Bangladesh have been officially knocked off any further chances for qualification into the WTC finals of 2023/25 to be played at The Lord’s.

ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/Massive-shift-in-WTC-Standings-after-Australia-crush-India-at-the-Adelaide-Oval-in-the-Pink-Ball-Test/">Massive Shift in WTC standings post Australia's historic Adelaide win </a>

WTC final scenarios : Strong fight between India, Australia, and South Africa for the two final spots

The major changes caused in the WTC standings post India's Adelaide loss have created a stir between India, Australia, and South Africa as they ensure an intense battle in the quest for the two WTC final spots.