West Indies Tour Of Pakistan 2025: The West Indies Cricket team is set to tour Pakistan after 18 years and this historic tour of West Indies in Pakistan is scheduled to feature a red ball series starting January 17, 2025.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has revealed the schedule for the West Indies cricket team's tour of Pakistan. The team left the Caribbean on January 2 and landed in Islamabad on January 6. They spent a few days training before gearing up for a warm-up match against Pakistan Shaheens from January 10-12 at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.
As the West Indies squad has landed, Pakistan are yet to announce the official squad for the test series. The Pakistan A–led by Imam-Ul-Haq is currently playing against West Indies in the Warmup match at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. 
The upcoming Test series marks West Indies' first visit to Pakistan for red-ball cricket in 18 years. Their last Test tour in the country was back in November 2006, when they played a three-match series. More recently, in October 2016, the two teams clashed in an away series held in the UAE.
In that UAE series, Pakistan emerged victorious with a 2-1 win. The Men in Green claimed the first two matches, but West Indies finished strong, securing a win in the final Test. Since then, Pakistan has toured the Caribbean twice, but this series brings the West Indies back to Pakistani soil after nearly two decades.
Let's Take a look at the PAK vs WI 2025 Schedule, Full Squads and More Updates on the bilateral Series:
<h2>PAK vs WI 2025 Schedule</h2>
Pakistan will host the West Indies for an exciting two-match Test series, part of the ongoing World Test Championship cycle. The opening Test is scheduled from January 17 to 21, while the second match will follow shortly after, running from January 25 to 29. Both games will be played at the Multan Cricket Stadium.
Due to renovation work at the stadiums in Rawalpindi, Lahore, and Karachi in preparation for February’s Champions Trophy, Multan was chosen as the sole venue for this series. Cricket fans can look forward to an intense battle between the home side and the visitors in this much-anticipated Test showdown.
<table border="1" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;"><colgroup><col style="width: 24.9433%;"><col style="width: 24.9433%;"><col style="width: 24.9433%;"><col style="width: 24.9433%;"></colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Date</td>
<td>Match</td>
<td>Venue</td>
<td>Time</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>17 Jan- 21 Jan</td>
<td>PAK vs WI, 1st Test</td>
<td>Multan Cricket Stadium</td>
<td>10:00 AM</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>25 Jan- 29 Jan</td>
<td>PAK vs WI, 2nd Test</td>
<td>Multan Cricket Stadium</td>
<td>10:00 AM</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h2>PAK vs WI 2025 Squad</h2>
West Indies Squad: Kraigg Brathwaite (captain), Alick Athanaze, Keacy Carty, Joshua Da Silva, Justin Greaves, Kavem Hodge, Tevin Imlach, Amir Jangoo, Mikyle Louis, Gudakesh Motie, Anderson Phillip, Kemar Roach, Jayden Seales, Kevin Sinclair and Jomel Warrican.
Pakistan Squad: Yet To be announced!
**Squad will be updated here as soon as they are announced!
READ: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/pcb-subtly-destroys-bcci-for-tarnishing-their-image-dismisses-rumours-of-champions-trophy-moving-out-of-pakistan-/">PCB subtly destroys BCCI for tarnishing their image, dismisses rumours of Champions Trophy moving out of Pakistan</a>

West Indies Tour of Pakistan 2025 (Getty Images)

West Indies returns to Pakistan for a red-ball Test series after 18 years, starting January 17, 2025, featuring warm-up matches in Rawalpindi.

The West Indies cricket team tours Pakistan after nearly two decades, marking a historic red-ball series following extensive preparations in Islamabad.

PAK vs WI 2025 Schedule, Full Squads, Venues and More on West Indies Tour OF Pakistan 2025

pak-vs-wi-2025-schedule-full-squads-venues-and-more-on-west-indies-tour-of-pakistan-2025

ICC Men's Test Team Rankings: After a series of what we would say was a disaster for Team India in Australia and for Team Pakistan in South Africa, the International Cricket Council has come up with the latest updated ICC Men's Test Team Rankings where India slipped past South Africa. 
Two big teams from Asia toured two different countries in December.  The positive of the Pakistan Tour of South Africa was that they are the only nation to whitewash South Africa in the ODI format in South Africa. The end result of the test series is disappointing for both nations as they failed to deliver the best. Let's take a look at both tours in brief.
<h2>Border Gavaskar Trophy 2024/25</h2>
India’s struggles in Test cricket continued as they suffered a crushing 3-1 defeat against Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. This marked the second consecutive Test series loss for the team, adding to the earlier 3-0 drubbing against New Zealand at home. Despite starting the series with high hopes, Rohit Sharma’s leadership failed to inspire consistency, allowing Australia to dominate and reclaim the trophy after a decade.
The series began on a promising note for India with a commanding 295-run victory in Perth, led by stand-in captain Jasprit Bumrah. However, that early success turned out to be the only bright spot in an otherwise disappointing campaign.
<img class="img-additional" src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202412/image_430x256_67738a0bddf09.jpg" alt="">
Australia roared back with a 10-wicket triumph in Adelaide, while the rain-affected draw in Brisbane did little to shift the momentum. The Boxing Day Test in Melbourne saw Australia crush India by 184 runs, leaving the visitors on the back foot heading into the series finale.
India entered the decisive fifth Test in Sydney needing a win to salvage the series and avoid their first defeat to Australia since 2014-15. Unfortunately, their performance faltered once again, and the hosts sealed a comfortable six-wicket victory. With this win, Australia not only secured the series 3-1 but also ended India’s recent dominance in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, delivering a strong statement in world cricket.
<h2>Pakistan Tour of South Africa 2024/25</h2>
South Africa clinched a 2-0 series win against Pakistan, securing their place in the World Test Championship final. The first Test at SuperSport Park was a nail-biting affair, with South Africa chasing 148 and narrowly winning by two wickets after a dramatic collapse, thanks to their lower-order resilience. Pakistan’s bowlers fought hard but couldn’t break South Africa’s eight-match losing streak in the country.
The second Test in Cape Town saw South Africa dominate with a 10-wicket victory. The proteas, batting first put up 600+ runs on the board, already winning the pressure game. Despite following on, Pakistan put up a spirited fight with a strong second-innings total of 478. However, South Africa's bowlers limited the target to just 58, which the hosts chased with ease, sealing the series in just four days.
<img class="img-additional" src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202501/image_430x256_677de4a3187ba.jpg" alt="">
This series highlighted South Africa’s consistency and ability to deliver under pressure. Their strong bowling attack and solid team performance throughout ensured they remained unbeaten in the 2024/25 season. With this victory, South Africa carries significant momentum heading into the WTC final at Lord’s.
After these two series, here is the ICC Men's Test Team Rankings updated recently:
<h2>ICC Men's Test Team Rankings</h2>
India were leading the ICC Test Team Rankings a couple of months back in the time. The home series loss against New Zealand put them in a 121 rating and India slipped to the second spot. The Australia tour was also disappointing for the Indian team as they lost 3 matches which further damaged their rating and India are now ranked third with a 109 rating.
<table id="table_1" class="table table-bordered table-hover" border="1" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 62.561%; background-color: #F2EEFA; border-color: #000000; border-style: double;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=98.5" style="width: 10.6329%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Pos</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.87" style="width: 37.7215%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Team</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.79" style="width: 21.7722%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Matches</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.07" style="width: 12.6582%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Pts</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.97" style="width: 17.2152%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Rating</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=71.89" style="width: 10.6329%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">01</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.84" style="width: 37.7215%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">AUSTRALIA</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.98" style="width: 21.7722%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">36</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.98" style="width: 12.6582%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">4531</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.97" style="width: 17.2152%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">126</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=89.39" style="width: 10.6329%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">02</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.92" style="width: 37.7215%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">SOUTH AFRICA</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.93" style="width: 21.7722%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">30</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.75" style="width: 12.6582%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">3355</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.9" style="width: 17.2152%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">112</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=91.51" style="width: 10.6329%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">03</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.79" style="width: 37.7215%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">INDIA</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.92" style="width: 21.7722%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">39</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.91" style="width: 12.6582%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">4248</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.96" style="width: 17.2152%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">109</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=93.03" style="width: 10.6329%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">04</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.64" style="width: 37.7215%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">ENGLAND</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.88" style="width: 21.7722%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">46</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.92" style="width: 12.6582%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">4815</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.93" style="width: 17.2152%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">105</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=83.5" style="width: 10.6329%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">05</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.88" style="width: 37.7215%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">NEW ZEALAND</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.92" style="width: 21.7722%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">33</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.95" style="width: 12.6582%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">3216</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.95" style="width: 17.2152%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">97</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=79.98" style="width: 10.6329%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">06</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.59" style="width: 37.7215%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">SRI LANKA</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.9" style="width: 21.7722%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">28</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.96" style="width: 12.6582%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">2436</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.79" style="width: 17.2152%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">87</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=87.86" style="width: 10.6329%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">07</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=80.77" style="width: 37.7215%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">PAKISTAN</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.95" style="width: 21.7722%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">27</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.96" style="width: 12.6582%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">2237</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.64" style="width: 17.2152%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">83</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=81.49" style="width: 10.6329%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">08</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.77" style="width: 37.7215%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">WEST INDIES</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.93" style="width: 21.7722%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">29</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.71" style="width: 12.6582%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">2184</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.86" style="width: 17.2152%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">75</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=77.44" style="width: 10.6329%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">09</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.72" style="width: 37.7215%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">BANGLADESH</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.92" style="width: 21.7722%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">29</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.47" style="width: 12.6582%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">1884</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.9" style="width: 17.2152%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">65</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=89.56" style="width: 10.6329%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">10</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=64.23" style="width: 37.7215%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">IRELAND</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=97.56" style="width: 21.7722%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">5</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.91" style="width: 12.6582%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">131</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.91" style="width: 17.2152%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">26</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=84.32" style="width: 10.6329%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">11</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=56.91" style="width: 37.7215%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">AFGHANISTAN</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.87" style="width: 21.7722%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">6</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.89" style="width: 12.6582%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">112</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.91" style="width: 17.2152%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">19</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=72.44" style="width: 10.6329%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">12</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.09" style="width: 37.7215%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">ZIMBABWE</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.92" style="width: 21.7722%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">6</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=98.31" style="width: 12.6582%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">0</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=97.18" style="width: 17.2152%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

India dropped to third in the ICC Test Rankings after series losses against New Zealand and Australia. South Africa’s dominant 2-0 win over Pakistan secured their spot in the World Test Championship final.

India’s Test struggles continue as South Africa overtakes them in rankings following dominant performances against Pakistan and Australia.

ICC Men's Test Team Rankings Latest Updated After BGT 2024/25 and SA vs PAK Test Series

icc-men-s-test-team-rankings-latest-updated-after-bgt-2024-25-and-sa-vs-pak-test-series

Former England player Michael Vaughan picked his combined playing XI from the recently concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. What caught the attention of many was the cricketer-turned-commentator didn't name Nitish Kumar Reddy, who set the stage on fire in the series. 
Nitish Kumar Reddy was the shinning light for India in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. He made his debut in the first game at Perth and showed great promise and went on to slam ton in 4th Test in Melbourne. He ended the series with 298 runs with the bat and also went on to pick 5 wickets.
Michael Vaughan went on to pick five Indian players in his combined XI. Yashasvi Jaiswal will be opening the innings for the team along with the young Australian batter Sam Konstas. Both the batters were exceptional with the bat in the series and played a vital role for their teams. 
India batter KL Rahul, who opened the innings for India, will be batting at No.3 in Michael Vaughan's innings. Along with him, Steve Smith has been named at No.4 as the Australia batter returned to form and slammed two centuries in the series. 
Travis Head, who was the leading run-getter in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25, will be batting at No.5. The batter slammed over 500 runs in the series and was one of the main reasons why Australia won the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 by the margin of 3-1. 
India duo of Rishabh Pant, who will be keeping the innings, and Ravindra Jadeja will be two players who will form the lower order in the series. The duo did a decent job for India with the bat and were the main reasons why the team fought hard in the series. 
The pacer battery picked by Michael Vaughan in his combined Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 included the Australia pace trio of Pat Cummins, Scott Boland and Mitchell Starc. Also, Jasprit Bumrah features in the team picked by the former England cricketer. 
<h2>Michael Vaughan picks his combined XI from the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 </h2>
Here's the Michael Vaughan picks his combined XI from the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 
Sam Konstas, Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Rishabh Pant (WK), Ravindra Jadeja, Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Jasprit Bumrah, Scott Boland
Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/-youngster-will-maintain-a-batting-average-of-25-30-virat-kohli-asked-to-leave-team-india-/#google_vignette">"Youngster will maintain a batting average of 25-30"- Virat Kohli asked to leave Team India</a>

Former England player Michael Vaughan picked his combined playing XI from the recently concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25.

No place for Nitish Reddy! Michael Vaughan names his combined BGT XI

no-place-for-nitish-reddy-michael-vaughan-names-his-combined-bgt-xi-

The Australian Men's Cricket Team defeated Team India in the five-match Border-Gavaskar Trophy Series by a margin of 3-1 and this series victory helped them to qualify for their 2nd successive World Test Championship (WTC) final. While thier final qualification is already secured, the Kangaroos are scheduled to take part in one more Test-Series in the ongoing WTC cycle. 
They will be travelling to Sri Lank to take part in a two-match Test-Series and their Test Skipper Pat Cummins will not be a part of this tour as he will be away on paternal duty. Moreover, the Kangaroos will also be travelling without ace seamer Josh Hazlewood who injured himself in the India Test-Series. 
According to a news report of the Sydney Herald, since the Aussies have already confirmed their WTC final spot, they don't want to take any kind of risks with Hazlewood.The 33-year-old who hurt his calf in the Gabba Test-Match versus the Men in Blue got ruled out of the remainder of the BGT series and he had previously said that he was aiming to make a comeback to Australia's first Test-Series versus the Sri Lankans since 2022.
<h2>The trio of Starc, Boland and Abbott will go on the tour of Sri Lanka</h2>
According to some sources of the Sydney Morning Herald, since Josh won't get the opportunity to travel to Sri Lanka as the selectors don't want to risk him, the duo of Sean Abbot and the in-form Scott Boland will be travelling as the seamers alongside Mitchell Starc. 
Boland was in red hot form in the BGT series versus the Indians, dismissing 21 batters in just six innings with a mind blowing average of 13.19. He also picked up an important fifer in the series and his performance with the ball were crucial in his team's success in the five-match Series. 
Abbot on the other hand was called up to the squad but he didn't get a chance to feature in any of the matches. With Cummins and Hazlewood missing the Sri Lanka series, there are high chances of Abbott playing versus the Island nation. 
<h2>What's the news about Australian skipper Pat Cummins</h2>
The selectors will meet on Wednesday of this week to finalise their squad. 16 players can be selected for the tour and The team is expected to be announced on Thursday, 9th of January
Captain Pat Cummins has indicated that he will not be available for part or all of the tour as he awaits the birth of his 2nd child. It will also have to be seen how he recovers from fatigue after playing five consecutive Test matches against India. Cummins and Starc were selected as Australia's only two frontline fast bowlers for the Sri Lanka tour three years ago, which was tied 1-1.
Do Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/icc-champions-trophy-2025-rohit-sharma-s-career-under-danger-bcci-wants-yashasvi-jaiswal-in-the-squad-/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ICC Champions Trophy 2025: Rohit Sharma's career under danger! BCCI wants Yashasvi Jaiswal in the squad</a>

The selection woes of Australia have increased following the injury of Hazlewood and it's reported that he won't be travelling to Sri Lanka for taking part in the two-match Test-Series

SL vs AUS: Another Headache for Australia, this fast bowler will miss the Sri Lanka tour

sl-vs-aus-another-headache-for-australia-this-fast-bowler-will-miss-the-sri-lanka-tour

The 5th &amp; Final Test-Match in Sydney between Fierce-Rivals Australia and India ended today and the home team secured an easy six-wicket win and this win allowed them to secure the series by 3-1.This win of the Aussies has also made some significant changes in the overall standings of the 2023-25 World Test Championship (WTC) cycle. 
Talking about the contest, the Jasprit Bumrah-led team were at 124-4 in their 2nd inning and they were looking set to set a big target for the Pat Cummins-led team. However, the Australian bowlers were in deadly mood as their perfect bowling display led to Team India suffering a batting collapse and they lost wickets in quick succession and eventually got bundled out for a mere score of 157 runs. 
Wicket-keeper batsman Rishabh Pant fought the lone warrior's battle as he played an impressive inning of 61 runs in just 33 deliveries but he didn't get any kind of support from his fellow batters at the other end and the Kangaroos took full advantage of this and eventually the game turned in the favour of the Defending Champions. 
For the Australian team, Scott Boland took 6 wickets while giving away 45 runs while skipper Pat Cummins also played a good hand with figures of 3-44 next to his name. 
The Aussies were given a target of 162 runs to win the Sydney Test-Match but they lost wickets unnecessarily as Sam Konstas (22 runs in 17 deliveries), Marnus Labuschagne (6 runs in 20 deliveries), and Steve Smith (4 runs in 9 balls) went back to the pavilion cheaply, leaving the Australian team suddenly in a dire position of 58/3.
Next, opening batter Usman Khawaja played a good knock of 41 runs in 45 deliveries which allowed his team to initiate a comeback in the contest. If Bumrah wouldn't have got injured, then Khawaja wouldn't even get the chance to go past the 10 runs mark. 
Without the availability of Bumrah, the Aussie batters started to play their shots freely and theu began creating a lot of pressure on the Indian bowling unit. While Prasidh Krishna did his best to help his team stay alive in the contest, he began to falter and this worked in the favour of the Australians. 
As a result, the duo of Beau Webster &amp; Travis Head got involved in a strong partnership for thethe fifth wicket and added 58 runs in just 53 balls and this turned out to be winning factor. They helped their team reach a score of 162-4 and the Kangaroos won the encounter by a margin of six wickets.
<h2>WTC Final Chance:</h2>
Pat Cummins-led Aussies have successfully qualified for the 2023-25 World Test Championship (WTC) Final after securing the BGT series 3-1. Temba Bavuma-led South Africa have already secured their tickets for the Final after defeating Pakistan in the first Test-Match. 
Keeping the statistics in mind, Team India have failed to qualify for the WTC Final for the first time since 2021. They are ranked third in the overall Standings with a PCT of 50. South Africa are the table toppers with a PCT of 66.67 while the Kangaroos are ranked 2nd with 63.73 PCT next to their name. They are followed by the likes of New Zealand (48.21) and Sri Lanka (45.45) respectively.
Do Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/india-vs-pakistan-will-the-two-rivals-play-a-test-match-versus-each-other-this-english-legend-wants-them-to-play-in/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">India vs Pakistan: Will the two rivals play a test match versus each other? This English legend wants them to play in</a>

Indian Captain Rohit Sharma couldn't really have a say in the way things panned out in the Sydney Test-Match| Image: Getty Images

Can Team India still qualify for the WTC Final after suffering an embarrassing defeat in the Sydney Test-Match Or have they been eliminated completely?

Team India lost the Sydney Test Match, do they have any chances of qualifying for the WTC Final? Explained!

team-india-lost-the-sydney-test-match-do-they-have-any-chances-of-qualifying-for-the-wtc-final-explained-

The Test series between India and Australia result has significantly impacted the ICC Men’s Test Team Rankings and the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Standings. The South Africa National Cricket team secured a spot in the WTC final after their victory in the first Test match against Pakistan, while Australia holds the second spot with 118 points.

<h3>ICC Men's Test Team Rankings Table</h3>
<div class="flex max-w-full flex-col flex-grow">
<div data-message-author-role="assistant" data-message-id="0195a902-e249-45bd-9da6-f29067815fcb" dir="auto" class="min-h-8 text-message flex w-full flex-col items-end gap-2 whitespace-normal break-words text-start [.text-message+&amp;]:mt-5" data-message-model-slug="gpt-4o">
<div class="flex w-full flex-col gap-1 empty:hidden first:pt-[3px]">
<div class="markdown prose w-full break-words dark:prose-invert dark">
Australia maintains its top spot in the ICC Test Rankings with a rating of 124, while India remains in the second position with a rating of 111. However, in the WTC points table, India slips down to 3rd place.
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<table border="1" cellpadding="10" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 42.8249%; height: 280px; border-width: 1px; border-spacing: 0px;"><caption>ICC Team Rinking [TEST]</caption>
<thead>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<th style="width: 14.3432%; height: 20px; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">Position</th>
<th style="width: 21.4286%; height: 20px; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">Team</th>
<th style="width: 14.5529%; height: 20px; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">Matches</th>
<th style="width: 11.1134%; height: 20px; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">Points</th>
<th style="width: 11.3129%; height: 20px; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">Rating</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="width: 14.3432%; height: 20px; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">1</td>
<td style="width: 21.4286%; height: 20px; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">Australia</td>
<td style="width: 14.5529%; height: 20px; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">30</td>
<td style="width: 11.1134%; height: 20px; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">3715</td>
<td style="width: 11.3129%; height: 20px; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">124</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="width: 14.3432%; height: 20px; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">2</td>
<td style="width: 21.4286%; height: 20px; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">India</td>
<td style="width: 14.5529%; height: 20px; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">33</td>
<td style="width: 11.1134%; height: 20px; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">3654</td>
<td style="width: 11.3129%; height: 20px; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">111</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="width: 14.3432%; height: 20px; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">3</td>
<td style="width: 21.4286%; height: 20px; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">South Africa</td>
<td style="width: 14.5529%; height: 20px; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">27</td>
<td style="width: 11.1134%; height: 20px; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">2947</td>
<td style="width: 11.3129%; height: 20px; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">109</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="width: 14.3432%; height: 20px; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">4</td>
<td style="width: 21.4286%; height: 20px; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">England</td>
<td style="width: 14.5529%; height: 20px; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">50</td>
<td style="width: 11.1134%; height: 20px; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">5303</td>
<td style="width: 11.3129%; height: 20px; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">106</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 40px;">
<td style="width: 14.3432%; height: 40px; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">5</td>
<td style="width: 21.4286%; height: 40px; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">New Zealand</td>
<td style="width: 14.5529%; height: 40px; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">37</td>
<td style="width: 11.1134%; height: 40px; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">3536</td>
<td style="width: 11.3129%; height: 40px; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">96</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="width: 14.3432%; height: 20px; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">6</td>
<td style="width: 21.4286%; height: 20px; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">Sri Lanka</td>
<td style="width: 14.5529%; height: 20px; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">28</td>
<td style="width: 11.1134%; height: 20px; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">2436</td>
<td style="width: 11.3129%; height: 20px; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">87</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="width: 14.3432%; height: 20px; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">7</td>
<td style="width: 21.4286%; height: 20px; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">Pakistan</td>
<td style="width: 14.5529%; height: 20px; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">24</td>
<td style="width: 11.1134%; height: 20px; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">2060</td>
<td style="width: 11.3129%; height: 20px; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">86</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="width: 14.3432%; height: 20px; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">8</td>
<td style="width: 21.4286%; height: 20px; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">West Indies</td>
<td style="width: 14.5529%; height: 20px; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">29</td>
<td style="width: 11.1134%; height: 20px; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">2184</td>
<td style="width: 11.3129%; height: 20px; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">75</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="width: 14.3432%; height: 20px; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">9</td>
<td style="width: 21.4286%; height: 20px; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">Bangladesh</td>
<td style="width: 14.5529%; height: 20px; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">29</td>
<td style="width: 11.1134%; height: 20px; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">1884</td>
<td style="width: 11.3129%; height: 20px; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">65</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="width: 14.3432%; height: 20px; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">10</td>
<td style="width: 21.4286%; height: 20px; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">Ireland</td>
<td style="width: 14.5529%; height: 20px; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">5</td>
<td style="width: 11.1134%; height: 20px; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">131</td>
<td style="width: 11.3129%; height: 20px; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">26</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="width: 14.3432%; height: 20px; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">11</td>
<td style="width: 21.4286%; height: 20px; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">Zimbabwe</td>
<td style="width: 14.5529%; height: 20px; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">3</td>
<td style="width: 11.1134%; height: 20px; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">11</td>
<td style="width: 11.3129%; height: 20px; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">4</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="width: 14.3432%; height: 20px; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">12</td>
<td style="width: 21.4286%; height: 20px; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">Afghanistan</td>
<td style="width: 14.5529%; height: 20px; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">3</td>
<td style="width: 11.1134%; height: 20px; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">0</td>
<td style="width: 11.3129%; height: 20px; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Standings Table</h3>
<table border="1" cellpadding="10" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 94.1035%; border-width: 1px; border-spacing: 0px;"><caption>WTC Points table</caption>
<thead>
<tr>
<th style="width: 9.70235%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">Position</th>
<th style="width: 12.3054%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">Team</th>
<th style="width: 13.7253%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">Matches Played</th>
<th style="width: 6.38935%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">Won</th>
<th style="width: 6.38935%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">Lost</th>
<th style="width: 6.98096%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">Draw</th>
<th style="width: 15.0268%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">Points Deduction</th>
<th style="width: 8.04585%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">Points</th>
<th style="width: 21.4162%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">Points Percentage (PCT)</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="width: 9.70235%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">1</td>
<td style="width: 12.3054%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">South Africa</td>
<td style="width: 13.7253%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">11</td>
<td style="width: 6.38935%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">7</td>
<td style="width: 6.38935%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">3</td>
<td style="width: 6.98096%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">1</td>
<td style="width: 15.0268%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">0</td>
<td style="width: 8.04585%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">88</td>
<td style="width: 21.4162%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">66.67</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 9.70235%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">2</td>
<td style="width: 12.3054%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">Australia</td>
<td style="width: 13.7253%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">16</td>
<td style="width: 6.38935%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">10</td>
<td style="width: 6.38935%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">4</td>
<td style="width: 6.98096%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">2</td>
<td style="width: 15.0268%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">10</td>
<td style="width: 8.04585%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">118</td>
<td style="width: 21.4162%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">61.46</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 9.70235%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">3</td>
<td style="width: 12.3054%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">India</td>
<td style="width: 13.7253%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">18</td>
<td style="width: 6.38935%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">9</td>
<td style="width: 6.38935%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">7</td>
<td style="width: 6.98096%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">2</td>
<td style="width: 15.0268%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">2</td>
<td style="width: 8.04585%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">114</td>
<td style="width: 21.4162%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">52.78</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 9.70235%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">4</td>
<td style="width: 12.3054%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">New Zealand</td>
<td style="width: 13.7253%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">14</td>
<td style="width: 6.38935%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">7</td>
<td style="width: 6.38935%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">7</td>
<td style="width: 6.98096%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">0</td>
<td style="width: 15.0268%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">3</td>
<td style="width: 8.04585%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">81</td>
<td style="width: 21.4162%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">48.21</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 9.70235%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">5</td>
<td style="width: 12.3054%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">Sri Lanka</td>
<td style="width: 13.7253%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">11</td>
<td style="width: 6.38935%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">5</td>
<td style="width: 6.38935%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">6</td>
<td style="width: 6.98096%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">0</td>
<td style="width: 15.0268%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">0</td>
<td style="width: 8.04585%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">60</td>
<td style="width: 21.4162%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">45.45</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 9.70235%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">6</td>
<td style="width: 12.3054%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">England</td>
<td style="width: 13.7253%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">22</td>
<td style="width: 6.38935%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">11</td>
<td style="width: 6.38935%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">10</td>
<td style="width: 6.98096%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">1</td>
<td style="width: 15.0268%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">22</td>
<td style="width: 8.04585%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">114</td>
<td style="width: 21.4162%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">43.18</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 9.70235%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">7</td>
<td style="width: 12.3054%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">Bangladesh</td>
<td style="width: 13.7253%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">12</td>
<td style="width: 6.38935%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">4</td>
<td style="width: 6.38935%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">8</td>
<td style="width: 6.98096%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">0</td>
<td style="width: 15.0268%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">3</td>
<td style="width: 8.04585%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">45</td>
<td style="width: 21.4162%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">31.25</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 9.70235%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">8</td>
<td style="width: 12.3054%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">Pakistan</td>
<td style="width: 13.7253%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">11</td>
<td style="width: 6.38935%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">4</td>
<td style="width: 6.38935%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">7</td>
<td style="width: 6.98096%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">0</td>
<td style="width: 15.0268%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">8</td>
<td style="width: 8.04585%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">40</td>
<td style="width: 21.4162%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">30.30</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 9.70235%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">9</td>
<td style="width: 12.3054%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">West Indies</td>
<td style="width: 13.7253%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">11</td>
<td style="width: 6.38935%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">2</td>
<td style="width: 6.38935%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">7</td>
<td style="width: 6.98096%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">2</td>
<td style="width: 15.0268%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">0</td>
<td style="width: 8.04585%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">32</td>
<td style="width: 21.4162%; border-width: 1px; padding: 10px;">24.24</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

Points System in WTC
<ul>
<li>Win: 12 points</li>
<li>Tie: 6 points</li>
<li>Draw: 4 points</li>
<li>Penalty: Points deducted for slow over rates</li>
</ul>
Check ICC Latest ranking on the ICC officla website <a href="https://www.icc-cricket.com/tournaments/world-test-championship/standings" title="WTC Standing" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.icc-cricket.com</a>

Latest ICC Men's Test Team Rankings and ICC World Test Championship (WTC) standings. Find out which teams are leading the charts, their matches played, points, and ratings as they compete for a place in the WTC Final at Lord’s in 2025.

ICC Team Ranking After India vs Australia Test Series 4th Match - ICC WTC Standings

icc-team-ranking-after-india-vs-australia-test-series-4th-match-icc-wtc-standings

Rohit Sharma, the current captain of the Indian Cricket Team is set to take the big decision of retiring from Test Cricket following the conclusion of the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy series versus the Australians. According to a media report, Rohit will be taking a big decision regarding his career after the conclusion of the ongoing series. 
Let us tell you that the Men in Blue have failed to win the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series, a series which the Indians have won on the previous four occasions. On the other hand, the personal performance of the 37-year-old with the bat have been poor too, managing to score just 31 runs in five innings versus the Aussies in the current edition of the BGT. 
According to the news report of Times of India, the top officials of thr BCCI and the National Team selectors have already talked to Rohit and it looks like the 'Hitman' will not be changing his decision of retiring. While the date of his retirement has not been revealed yet, some news reports suggest that the 37-year-old will be taking the tough decision after the conclusion of the Sydney Test-Match. 
If the two time WTC runners-up manage to qualify for the 2023-25 WTC Final, then Rohit can carry on as the captain of the team for some more time and he will most likely have a discussion with the selectors regarding staying on as the skipper. 
Following the team's defeat in the Melbourne Boxing-Day Test, the Indian captain was deeply hurt by the defeat. On one hand, elite seamer Jasprit Bumrah has single handedly dismissed Australian batters 30 times in the ongoing series while Rohit on the other hand, has managed to amass just 31 runs. It's possible that the retirement of the 'Hitman' is not that far but he won't be moving away from Red-ball Cricket without fighting back in the Sydney Test-Match.
<h2>What did Indian Captain Rohit Sharma say following the team's embarrassing defeat in Melbourne? </h2>
The Indian Team fell to an embarrassing 184 runs defeat in the Melbourne Boxing-Day Test-Match versus the Australians and this defeat meant that the home team have taken a 2-1 lead in the five-match series. After the defeat, Skipper Rohit Sharma that there are many things that are not happening according to his wishes. He also said that this defeat is mentally disturbing. 
"It's evident that we have had a few unfavorable-outcomes, and as captain, I find this disheartening. Many of the things I'm attempting to do as a batter are not working out and it's upsetting to the mind," the Indian captain said.
Do Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/mitchell-starc-ruled-out-of-sydney-test-australian-coach-makes-a-big-revelation-ahead-of-5th-test/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Mitchell Starc ruled out of Sydney Test? Australian coach makes a big revelation ahead of 5th Test</a>

A dejected Rohit Sharma walks back to the dugout after getting dismissed for yet another low score in the BGT 2024 series | Image: Associated Press

Reportedly, Indian skipper Rohit Sharma has decided to retire from Test Cricket and the announcement is likely to be made by the BCCI after the end of the Sydney Test-Match versus the Australians.

Team India: Captain Rohit Sharma decides to retire from Tests, BCCI likely to make an announcement soon

team-india-captain-rohit-sharma-decides-to-retire-from-tests-bcci-likely-to-make-an-announcement-soon

The finalists of both World Test Championship cycles in the history of Test cricket—once the number-one ranked team for a long time before the home series against New Zealand and a side brimming with some of the finest red-ball cricketing talent—have suffered as many as 11 batting collapses in their last 14 innings.
If we set aside a few individual performances from these 14 innings, the overall display as a unit reveals two more poor performances. Not to mention, India managed to win just one Test out of those seven, and that too only when the entire top order fired up and put up substantial runs.
The most disheartening aspect is that India faltered against New Zealand at home, on pitches they themselves had chosen to play on. New Zealand, on the other hand, executed their plans and tactics flawlessly, adapting brilliantly to subcontinent conditions. They not only outplayed India but also delivered a resounding statement by securing a 3-0 whitewash in the Test series on Indian soil.
Following the home humiliation, India embarked on their tour of Australia for the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy and started on a high note, winning the first Test in Perth. Despite being bowled out for just 150 in the first innings, a brilliant 161 from Jaiswal and an unbeaten century from Kohli (100*) secured a memorable victory for India.
While Indian bowling, led by Jasprit Bumrah, has delivered consistently and performed satisfactorily, the same cannot be said for the batting lineup, which continues to struggle with inconsistency.

The second innings at Perth was the last time Indian batting displayed solidity. In the pink-ball Test at Adelaide, the team suffered a double collapse, resulting in a defeat. At Brisbane, KL Rahul, Jadeja, and Akash Deep were the only players to score above 20, highlighting the lack of form and consistency within the batting order.
The latest disappointment came in Melbourne, where the story was no different. Despite promising starts, the batters threw away their wickets, leading to yet another collapse. Jaiswal, however, continued his excellent form and proved to be the lone bright spot in an otherwise dismal batting performance, fully deserving the bit of luck that came his way.
<h2>Things Going Wrong With Indian Batting</h2>
<h3>Out of Form Captain</h3>
<img class="img-additional" src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202412/image_430x256_67738a0a1ea8d.jpg" alt="">
Rohit Sharma, the Indian Test Captain, is just out of the knick and it looks like he is out of the mindset he used to have. If we talk on his numbers in the Border Gavaskar trophy 2024-25, he has scored only 31 runs in the three tests of the series. His total runs in the series are just one more than Jasprit Bumrah's wickets in the series.
The runs simply aren’t coming. While the statistics might provide material for laughs and social media memes, on a serious note, they paint a grim picture of Rohit as a batter. Not only has he struggled with his form, but his performance as a Test captain has also been far from tactically sound or proactive. The prolonged lean patch has seemingly further impacted his decision-making, compounding the issues for both himself and the team
<h3>Virat and the fifth Stump Love Affair</h3>
<img class="img-additional" src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202412/image_430x256_67738a0bddf09.jpg" alt="">
‘Modern-day greats will figure out their way… you know… path,’ Rohit Sharma said with a smile when asked about Kohli's tendency to chase the fifth-stump ball ahead of the Boxing Day Test. Ironically, in both innings at the MCG, Kohli was dismissed chasing deliveries outside the off-stump, proving that the issue remains unresolved.
There seems to be a clear pattern emerging for both Kohli and Rohit, and opposing teams now know exactly how to send them back to the pavilion. The Australians, in particular, are enjoying testing Virat Kohli's patience, and it hasn’t taken much effort to reap the rewards. At this point, even someone like Mitch Marsh could dismiss Kohli by consistently bowling on the fourth or fifth stump line.
This issue needs to be addressed urgently. Kohli has earned his place among the greats over the years, but now it’s time for him to show how he can adapt and overcome this persistent fifth-stump vulnerability.
<h3>Rishabh Pant Being Over Aggressive </h3>
<img class="img-additional" src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202412/image_430x256_67738a0dba404.jpg" alt="">
Pant, known for his fearless and attacking style, has played key roles in many of India's victories. Yet, his tendency to go for high-risk shots has led to untimely dismissals, one of the most notable being a poor judgment call during the Melbourne Cricket Ground match, where he attempted an ill-conceived scoop shot.
Pant is putting in significant effort to get those valuable starts, and he’s been successful in doing so. But his aggressive instincts often take over, causing his well-earned starts to end in unfortunate dismissals.
READ: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/on-this-day-in-2014-the-legendary-ms-dhoni-played-his-final-test-and-retired-from-the-longest-format-of-the-game/">On this day in 2014, the legendary MS Dhoni played his final test and retired from the longest format of the game</a>

India’s recent struggles in Test cricket reflect inconsistent batting, with key players like Kohli and Rohit failing to find form. Despite strong individual performances, persistent issues, especially against Australia, remain unresolved.

India’s Test cricket woes continue with inconsistent batting and decision-making, despite individual brilliance, especially against Australia’s relentless pressure.

What's Wrong With India's Batting in Recent Times? Indepth Analysis Featuring Border-Gavaskar Trophy

what-s-wrong-with-india-s-batting-in-recent-times-indepth-analysis-featuring-border-gavaskar-trophy

The Indian Cricket Team, under the captaincy of Rohit Sharma, suffered a humiliating 184 runs defeat in the Melbourne Boxing-Day Test-Match and after this defeat, their road to qualifying for the 2023-25 WTC Final has become even more difficult. In this article, we will find out how the Men in Blue can still qualify for the WTC final despite suffering a defeat in Melbourne
Let us tell you that Temba Bavuma-led South Africa have already booked their ticket for the 2023-25 WTC Final in Lord's. The Indian Team are competing with the Mighty Australians to secure the second vacant final spot. While the Men in Blue are currently sitting at the third position in the overall WTC standings following their defeat in Melbourne, the Kangaroos on the other hand have occupied the second spot. 
<h2>How can the Indian Team qualify for the WTC Final after suffering a defeat in the Melbourne Test-Match?</h2>
Following their defeat in the Melbourne Boxing-Day Test-Match, the first thing which the Indian team needs to do is defeat the Mighty Australians by any means possible in the fifth and highly important Test-Match in Sydney of the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy series. The Sydney Test-Match is going to be the Rohit Sharma-led team's final fixture of the current WTC cycle which makes it mandatory for them to secure a victory there. 
If they suffer a defeat in the Sydney Test-Match, then all of their hopes of qualifying for the final will get crushed. Securing a win in the final BGT Test will allow Rohit Sharma and his men to snatch the second position away from the Kangaroos in the overall standings. 
This will only be possible though if the Pat Cummins-led team lose the two-match Test-Series versus Sri Lanka by a margin of 1-0 or 2-0. If the Kangaroos lose the Sydney Test but end up winning the Test-Series versus the Sri Lankans by a margin of 2-0, then in this situation, the Men in Blue will get eliminated from the race of the final. 
<h2>The Proteas have qualified for the WTC Final for the first time</h2>
The Proteas have qualified for the WTC Final for the first time ever in their Cricketing history and they will be looking to go all out in search of their first ever ICC Trophy. The Final of the previous edition of the World Test Championship (WTC) was played between Fierce-Rivals Australia and India where the the Kangaroos managed to reign supreme. The Final of the Inaugural edition of the event took place between New Zealand and the Indians in 2021 where the Kane Williamson-led team crossed the finish line successfully.
Do Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/-rohit-thank-you-for-your-service-massive-statement-comes-on-india-retirement-/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">‘Rohit, thank you for your service' - Massive statement comes on India retirement</a>

Australia celebrate after dismissing the final Indian batter in the Melbourne Boxing-Day Test | Image: ICC

The Indian Team suffered a humiliating defeat in the Boxing-Day Test and this defeat has made their chances of qualifying for the WTC 2023-25 cycle Final even harder.

Can Team India still qualify for the WTC Final despite suffering a defeat in Melbourne versus Australia?

can-team-india-still-qualify-for-the-wtc-final-despite-suffering-a-defeat-in-melbourne-versus-australia-

The Boxing Day Test between India and Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Stadium ended with a dominating win for the hosts. After having a wicketless second session prior to the tea break on Day 5, India came back strong to take seven wickets in the final session.
The Indian batting line-up once again struggled against the disciplined bowling attack and were bowled out for just 155 runs in the second innings. As a result, Australia have bagged a win by 184 runs to take an unassailable 2-1 lead in the series.
This win has certainly boosted Australia's chances of winning the Border-Gavaskar Trophy after more than a decade and also booking a place in the World Test Championship 2023-25 final. India had their chances, and they would have liked a win, but their performance with the bat was one key reason that they had to surrender once again.
<h2>WTC 2023-25 Final: Australia firm their grip on the remaining place in the World Test Championship final with the MCG win</h2>
It was India's fifth loss in the last seven tests, which has put them on the verge of being eliminated from the race to the World Test Championship final. And now, the loss at the Boxing Day Test has hurt their chances to qualify to a big extent. South Africa have already made it to the final after winning the first Test against Pakistan in Centurion.
<table border="1" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 99.9702%; height: 200px;"><colgroup><col style="width: 11.1012%;"><col style="width: 11.1012%;"><col style="width: 11.1012%;"><col style="width: 11.1012%;"><col style="width: 11.1012%;"><col style="width: 11.1012%;"><col style="width: 11.1012%;"><col style="width: 11.1012%;"><col style="width: 11.1012%;"></colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="height: 20px;">Pos</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">Teams</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">Played</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">Won</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">Lost</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">Draw</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">Ded</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">Points</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">PCT</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="height: 20px;">1</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">South Africa (Q)</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">11</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">7</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">3</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">1</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">0</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">88</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">66.67</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="height: 20px;">2</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">Australia</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">16</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">10</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">4</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">2</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">10</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">118</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">61.46</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="height: 20px;">3</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">India</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">18</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">9</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">7</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">2</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">2</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">114</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">52.78</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="height: 20px;">4</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">New Zealand</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">14</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">7</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">7</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">0</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">3</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">81</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">46.21</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="height: 20px;">5</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">Sri Lanka</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">11</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">5</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">6</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">0</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">0</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">60</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">45.45</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="height: 20px;">6</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">England</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">22</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">11</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">10</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">1</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">22</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">114</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">43.18</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="height: 20px;">7</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">Bangladesh</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">12</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">4</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">8</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">0</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">3</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">45</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">31.25</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="height: 20px;">8</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">Pakistan</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">11</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">4</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">7</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">0</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">8</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">40</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">30.30</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="height: 20px;">9</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">West Indies</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">11</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">2</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">7</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">2</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">0</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">32</td>
<td style="height: 20px;">24.24</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
They are at the top of the WTC table with 66.67 PCT. The race is between Australia and India for the second spot. However, the loss at MCG has decreased India's chances more. Australia are second on the WTC table with 61.45 PCT, and India are placed third with 53.27 PCT now.
<div dir="auto">The fifth and final test at the Sydney Cricket Ground has now become a must-win clash for Rohit Sharma and his men. They need to win that game to draw the series and retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and also to keep their hopes alive for the WTC final. But if India win that game, they also need to hope that Sri Lanka can beat Australia in the upcoming home test series.</div>
<div dir="auto">Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/top-five-highest-totals-chased-down-by-india-in-test-cricket-/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Top five highest totals chased down by India in Test cricket </a></div>

India lost the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Stadium by 184 runs. Australia took a 2-1 lead in the series.

india-lost-the-boxing-day-test-at-the-melbourne-cricket-stadium-by-184-runs-australia-took-a-2-1-lead-in-the-series-

The International Cricket Council's (ICC) World Test Championship (WTC) is a prestigious tournament that brings together the world's top cricket teams in a two-year-long competition. The WTC aims to promote and elevate the importance of Test cricket, the oldest and most traditional form of the game. Here you will get latest update on ICC WTC

World Test Championship (WTC)

India pacer Jasprit Bumrah has been advised complete bed rest by the doctors following the back swelling that he developed during the last match of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. As per the reports in Times India, it is learned that the fast bowler's return to action so far seems to have no clarity. 
Jasprit Bumrah has been advised bed rest so that his muscles recover and the swelling gets over. Following that, he will be moving to the newly built NCA of the BCCI, which is known as the Center of Excellence for his recovery and rehabilitation process. 
The BCCI are hopeful that the fast bowler doesn't have a disc bulge or muscle swelling, which is of a higher grade. This might rule him out of cricketing action for a longer period of time and leave a massive void in the Indian team, especially with important assignments around the corner. 
The Board of Control for India doesn't want to rush Jasprit Bumrah back into the action. So far, there hasn't been any clarity on what is the exact nature of the injury, but if it's more than the back swelling, then there are chances his return could take longer than expected. 
<h2>Hope it's not a disc bulge or a muscle swelling which is of a higher grade - BCCI source on Jasprit Bumrah </h2>
A source close to BCCI confirmed the development, saying that they will be deciding on a future course of action once there is clarity. He said that they want to make sure that talent like Bumrah is preserved. Speaking to the Times of India, he explained: 
"Bumrah could go to the CoE next week, but right now, there is no fixed date yet. He has been advised bed rest at home to help the muscles recover and the swelling to subside. Once that is done, the future course of action will be ascertained," said a well-placed source. 
"Bed rest doesn't sound good. I hope it's not a disc bulge or a muscle swelling which is of a higher grade. The approach has to be similar with him - wrap him in cotton wool and preserve the talent like him," added the source. 
Earlier, there were reports which claimed that Jasprit Bumrah would be back in action during the later stages of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The report said that the pacer will miss the league stage and could return to action during the semi-final and final.
Also Read: <a href="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/admin/Gautam%20Gambhir%20finds%20out%20who%20leaked%20dressing%20room%20talks%20during%20BGT%202024-25,%20Player's%20career%20under%20huge%20threat%20now">Gautam Gambhir finds out who leaked dressing room talks during BGT 2024-25, Player's career under huge threat now</a>

India pacer Jasprit Bumrah has been advised complete bed rest by the doctors following the back swelling that he developed during the last match of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25.

Jasprit Bumrah advised bed rest, puts his ICC Champions Trophy 2025 participation in jeopardy

jasprit-bumrah-advised-bed-rest-puts-his-icc-champions-trophy-2025-participation-in-jeopardy-

The discussion between Gautam Gambhir, Ajit Agarkar, Rohit Sharma and BCCI officials during the review meeting has been coming out in the media slowly. The higher authorities in Indian cricket talked about the poor performances of the team late in the Test and the ODIs. 
The reports in Dainik Jagran revealed that Gautam Gambhir and his coaching staff were asked by the BCCI for the reasons behind the poor performances. However, one of the members of the support staff came up with the massive reasons behind the team's poor performance. 
As per the reports, it is learned that the member of the support staff blamed IPL for the team's poor performance in the Tests. He reportedly said that big IPL contracts were one of the biggest reasons why the players weren't on top of the money with their performances. 
One of the members of the team management said that IPL contracts were the reason why the players didn't play with full intensity and commitment in the Tests. This was one of the reasons given by Gautam Gambhir and his staff for the loss in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. 
<h2>India looked extremely torrid with the bat and ball in the Test series against Australia</h2>
India looked extremely torrid with the bat and ball in the Test series against Australia. They won the first match of the series in Perth, but after that, nothing went their way as they faced humiliation in all the remaining games of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. 
India faced a horrific 10-wicket loss in Adelaide, and then, thanks to rain in Gabba, the game ended in a draw. In the Melbourne Cricket Ground Test, the Rohit Sharma-led side faced an 184-run thrashing before bagging a 6-wicket loss in the last game at the Sydney Cricket Ground in Sydney. 
The change in the Test team is likely to happen soon. BCCI soon will be taking a massive step ahead of the England Test series. The five-match series between the teams is all set to take place in June next year and it remains to be seen what will be the future of the team.
Also Read:<a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/ashwin-opens-up-on-his-retirement-says-i-am-only-in-the-team-because-/"> </a><a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/ashwin-opens-up-on-his-retirement-says-i-am-only-in-the-team-because-/">Ashwin Opens Up on his Retirement, Says "I am only in the Team Because..."</a>

The reports in Dainik Jagran revealed that Gautam Gambhir and his coaching staff were asked by the BCCI for the reasons behind the poor performances

Blame Game on! Gautam Gambhir and the coaching staff blame the IPL for poor Test performances

blame-game-on-gautam-gambhir-and-the-coaching-staff-blame-the-ipl-for-poor-test-performances-

The India Cricket Team of late has been under the massive scanner of late. Not only the poor performances on the field but also there have been various off-field antics as well. Also, there have been several rumours as well of a rift inside the dressing room. 
India faced a thrashing 3-1 loss at the hands of Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. The Rohit Sharma-led displayed poor performance with the bat and ball, and this saw them getting eliminated from the race to reach the final of the ICC World Test Championship for the first time. 
With performances not going in the team's way, there were reports of unrest in the Indian dressing room, especially after the fourth Test. As reported by the Indian Express, head coach Gautam Gambhir was unhappy with the way the team performed and said harsh words to the players that they now have to play in his way. 
Also, there were reports which claimed that some Mr Fix-It had raised his hand to take over the captaincy of the team, especially with the side struggling. He boldly said that he is the right man to take the team forward and is ready to be the interim captain of the team during the transition phase. 
However, this all got leaked and was in the media all over. This saw many reactions from fans and pundits from all across the globe. Even head coach Gautam Gambhir, during the press conference, said things that happen inside the dressing room shouldn't go out of it. 
<h2>Gautam Gambhir blames young batter Sarfaraz Khan for leaking the details from the dressing room during the Australia tour</h2>
In a massive turn of events now, it is learned, as per the reports in News 24, that Gautam Gambhir has blamed young batter Sarfaraz Khan for leaking the details from the dressing room during the Australia tour. The batter was part of the squad but didn't get to play a single match in the series. 
Gautam Gambhir reportedly told the BCCI about Sarfaraz Khan's act. The head coach was confident that it was the Mumbai batter who leaked all the talks and informed the same during the review meeting, where captain Rohit Sharma and the chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar were also present. 
This now could be a massive turn in the career of Sarfaraz Khan. The batter is likely to face some punishment for his antics. The reports added that there are chances that his career might also take a hit.
Also Read:<a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/ashwin-opens-up-on-his-retirement-says-i-am-only-in-the-team-because-/"> </a><a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/ashwin-opens-up-on-his-retirement-says-i-am-only-in-the-team-because-/">Ashwin Opens Up on his Retirement, Says "I am only in the Team Because..."</a>

Gautam Gambhir was unhappy with the way the team performed  in Australia and said harsh words to the players

Gautam Gambhir finds out who leaked dressing room talks during BGT 2024-25, Player's career under huge threat now

gautam-gambhir-finds-out-who-leaked-dressing-room-talks-during-bgt-2024-25-player-s-career-under-huge-threat-now-

31-year-old Usman Qadir, the son of Pakistan's legendary spinner Abdul Qadir, has shocked the entire world of Cricket as he has decided to leave his home country and has shifted his focus to Australia in order to start a new chapter in his Cricketing Journey
The leg spinner, who featured in 25 T20 Internationals and a single One-Day International, with a combined total of 32 scalps to his name, is currently plying his trade for the Hawkesbury Cricket Club of Sydney. 
Having previously demonstrated his skills in the Big Bash with the Adelaide Strikers &amp; Perth Scorchers, Usman has also featured in matches for Australia's Prime Minister's XI and the team of South Australia. 
Despite retiring from Pakistan Cricket in 2024, the 31-year-old has high hopes about his future Cricket endeavors in Australian Cricket.
Speaking about his decision of moving to Australia, Usman said, " My livelihood is the beloved sport of Cricket. I have goals for the future and am committed to taking advantage of the fantastic chances that Australia has to offer."
On the 3rd of October, 2024, Qadir had announced his decision to officially retire from Pakistan Cricket and this decision had come four years after returning to Pakistan from Australia in order to commit his International future to the National Team. 
Qadir wrote an emotional message on his social media handles as he reflected on his career: " Today, I announce the decision of leaving Pakistan Cricket. I want to sincerely thank you all as I think back on this incredible adventure. Representing my nation has been a tremendous honor, and I am grateful for the encouragement of my teammates and coaches who have stood by me the entire time," he stated.
Usman's International Cricket career started off on an incredible note during the T20 International seris versus Zimbabwe. He dismissed eight batters in three contests, which also helped him earn the Man-of-the-series award. 
During his peak days, the 31-year-old was the main leg-spinner of the Green Shirts for a brief period of time, keeping his fellow compatriot Shadab Khan out of the T20 International playing 11.
However, disappointing displaye and limited-chances led to him taking the harsh decision of leaving Pakistan Cricket. It remains to be seen whether he will be given the chance to make his debut for the Australian Men's Cricket Team Or not.

Usman Qadir of Pakistan bowls an over versus Zimbabwe | Image: Getty Images

Pakistani Leg Spinner Usman Qadir has quit Pakistan Cricket and has shifted to Australia in order to start a new chapter in his Cricketing Career

Leg Spinner Usman Qadir has moved to Australia from Pakistan in order to restart his Cricket career

Usman Qadir quits Pakistan Cricket and moves to Australia in search of a new chapter in his Cricket Career

usman-qadir-quits-pakistan-cricket-and-moves-to-australia-in-search-of-a-new-chapter-in-his-cricket-career

Smriti Mandhana has been the best all-format women's cricketer for Team India for a while now. She is consistently scoring runs and breaking records with her bat. That's what she did in the ongoing ODI match against the Ireland women. The third game between India women and Ireland women is underway at Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot.
India won the toss and decided to bat first. Captain Mandhana, along with youngster Pratika Rawal, went on to register a massive opening stand. Both batters added 233 runs in just 26.4 overs. This is the fourth 100-run opening stand between the opening duo for India in just 6 innings.
Mandhana slammed her 10th WODI ton and reached the landmark in just 70 balls. With that, she recorded the fastest ODI hundred by an Indian women's cricketer. She went past Harmanpreet Kaur's tally of an 87-ball hundred. With this, the Indian opener also achieved a number of records.
<h2>Smriti Mandhana creates havoc with her 70-ball ton in third ODI in Rajkot</h2>
The left-hander reached her century off just 70 balls and registered the fastest ODI ton by an Indian women cricketer. This was her 10th ton in this format, and she became the first Indian to reach the double figure in ODI centuries by an Indian women cricketer. Now, she has the joint-third most centuries in WODIs.
Australia's Meg Lanning (15), New Zealand's Suzie Bates (13), and England's Tammy Beaumont (10) are ahead of her only. Mandhana got out after scoring 135 runs off just 80 balls, with 12 fours and seven sixes, with a strike rate of 168.75. With this, she also equalled Harmanpreet's record for most sixes by an Indian women cricketer in an ODI innings.
Harmanpreet did it against Australia during the 2017 Women's ODI World Cup when she slammed an unbeaten 171 off 115 balls. The left-hander has scored 996 runs since 2024 in WODIs in just 16 innings with four half-centuries and five centuries, while no other batter has reached even the 700-run mark.
She also added the third-highest opening stand of 233 along with Pratika in this game. Notably, Mandhana is leading the team as Harmanpreet has been rested from this series. India have already won the first two games, and they are looking for a 3-0 whitewash here.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/jasprit-bumrah-adds-another-feather-to-his-wings-wins-major-icc-award-after-historic-bgt-performance/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Jasprit Bumrah adds another feather to his wings; wins major ICC award after historic BGT Performance</a>

Smriti Mandhan reaches her 10th WODI century off just 70 balls.

Smriti Mandhana scores her 10th century in ODIs. She completed her hundred off just 70 balls.