PAK vs SA World Cup 2023: Following three consecutive losses, Pakistan now have their next fixture against South Africa at MA Chidambaram Stadium Chennai on 27th October. There are a lot of issues that the Babar Azam-led Pakistan Team is suffering through and current form is one of them. In this post, we discuss three changes that Pakistan might make for the next match against South Africa.



<div class="wp-block-rank-math-toc-block" id="rank-math-toc"><nav><ul><li class=""><a href="#pak-vs-sa-three-changes-for-pakistan-vs-south-africa">PAK vs SA: Three Changes For Pakistan vs South Africa</a><ul><li class=""><a href="#1-fakhar-zaman-to-replace-imam-ul-haq">1- Fakhar Zaman To Replace Imam-Ul-Haq</a></li><li class=""><a href="#2-agha-salman-to-replace-saud-shakeel">2- Agha Salman To Replace Saud Shakeel</a></li><li class=""><a href="#3-mohammad-nawaz-to-replace-usama-mir">3- Mohammad Nawaz to Replace Usama Mir</a></li></ul></li></ul></nav></div>



Pakistan won the first two matches with ease and they looked like a promising team for at least semis but things turned south when they met India on 14 October. Pakistan look no longer the same Pakistan as they were before 14 October. 



If you look at the batting, Abdullah Shafique has been the root of the team in the past few games. He not only has runs under his belt but has also been showing good technique and class. His opening partner Imam has been the exact opposite of it. Being an experienced player at the top, the team needs more of his contribution. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2023/10/Team-India-vs-Pakistan.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-121359" /></figure>



Babar Azam has been decent but not up to his standards. Many doubt his captaincy skills but he has been one of the most successful captains for Pakistan for the past few years. Following him is Rizwan and arguably he is the best and most reliable batsman in the current Pakistan Squad. 



Team management has put belief in Saud Shakeel but to be very honest, he too is not up to the mark. Ifthikar has been doing his work nicely but he is not a great fielder. Shadab Khan also needs to give more on the ground. He is a good spinner of the ball and on Indian pitches, he should have been the most effective Pakistani Bowler but he isn't.



Usama Mir got a few chances but couldn't squeeze the maximum out of them. He dropped catches and seemed sluggish on the field and also he is not that effective in the middle. Haris Rauf is taking wickets but he is also being too expensive. Shaheen and Hasan are decent at their jobs.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2023/10/usama-mir-1.jpg" alt="PAK vs SA: Three Changes That Pakistan Might Make For Next Match Against South Africa | Pakistan vs South Africa ICC World Cup 2023" class="wp-image-121792" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Usama Mir dropped Warner but the match (ICC)</figcaption></figure>



This was an overview analysis of the team and clearly, there are some loopholes that need to be covered. Down below are the three changes that Pakistan might make for the next match against South Africa:



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="pak-vs-sa-three-changes-for-pakistan-vs-south-africa">PAK vs SA: Three Changes For Pakistan vs South Africa</h2>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="1-fakhar-zaman-to-replace-imam-ul-haq">1- Fakhar Zaman To Replace Imam-Ul-Haq</h4>



Imam has been out of runs for quite some time and the team might look for other options now. However, Fakhar was also out of form when the team left him out but Pakistan need to find the winning combination and winning formula back.



Fakhar Zaman is the only Pakistani who has a double hundred in ODIs under his belt and his strike rate is way better than that of Imam. And the good news for the management is that he is fully fit now.



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="2-agha-salman-to-replace-saud-shakeel">2- Agha Salman To Replace Saud Shakeel</h4>



Agha Salman has represented Pakistan in a total of 16 innings where he has amassed 436 runs at an average of ~40 comparable to Saud Shakeel's 29 in 11 matches. His Strike rate is also better than Saud so there are definitely chances that team management would look for this shuttle change.



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="3-mohammad-nawaz-to-replace-usama-mir">3- Mohammad Nawaz to Replace Usama Mir</h4>



Usama Mir was added to the playing 11 to strengthen the spin bowling attack but Nawaz was also putting forward what he is delivering. Additionally, Nawaz is an allrounder so his inclusion means more depth in the batting line-up.



READ:<a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/icc-world-cup-2023-points-table-updated-october-24-after-afghanistan-defeated-pakistan/"> ICC World Cup 2023 Points Table Updated (October 24)</a>



Visit the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.icc-cricket.com/homepage" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ICC OFFICIAL WEBSITE</a>&nbsp;for more recent updates.

PAK vs SA: Three Changes That Pakistan Might Make For Next Match Against South Africa | Pakistan vs South Africa ICC World Cup 2023

pak-vs-sa-three-changes-that-pakistan-might-make-for-next-match-against-south-africa-pakistan-vs-south-africa-icc-world-cup-2023

VIRAT Kohli Vs SAM Konstat: The Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground turned fiery during the morning session as Virat Kohli and debutant Sam Konstas found themselves in a mid-pitch showdown. The clash unfolded in the 10th over when Kohli, with the ball in hand, and Konstas, walking from the crease, bumped shoulders unexpectedly.
Both players stopped in their tracks, turning back to exchange sharp words. It wasn’t long before Usman Khawaja, Konstas’ opening partner, stepped in to defuse the tension, putting a calming arm around Kohli. Although the argument didn’t last long, it was enough to set the tone for a charged session.
WATCH THE FULL VIDEO- <a href="https://x.com/mufaddal_vohra/status/1872075886947881321">CLICK HERE</a>
<img class="img-additional" src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202412/image_430x256_676ce4a4c251e.jpg" alt="">
Replays added layers to the drama, revealing Kohli straying far from his position on the field and walking into Konstas’ path. Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting didn't hold back, providing commentary on Channel 7. “Virat walked one whole pitch over to his right and instigated that confrontation. No doubt in my mind,” he remarked, suggesting Kohli deliberately sought the encounter.
Sam Konstas, later reflecting on the incident with Channel 7, dismissed it as a heat-of-the-moment scuffle. “I didn’t even realize it was happening at first,” said the 19-year-old. “I was adjusting my gloves, and then there was this shoulder bump. These things happen in cricket, though.”
The fiery exchange also drew comments from umpiring legend Simon Taufel, who pointed out that the collision might fall under “inappropriate physical contact” as per the ICC Code of Conduct. “Virat clearly changed his line and entered Sam’s personal space. This will likely be reviewed after play,” Taufel explained.
Even Indian legend Sunil Gavaskar weighed in, saying, “These things are avoidable. It’s like walking down a crowded street—you see someone coming, and you just sidestep. It doesn’t make you any smaller. We don’t want this on the cricket field.” Gavaskar also speculated that fines could be in order, depending on how the match officials interpreted the footage.
Despite the confrontation, Konstas made a memorable Test debut. After a slow start, he unleashed a dazzling counterattack, reverse-scooping Jasprit Bumrah for a six over slips and later pulling off a more traditional scoop for four. His audacity shook the Indian bowling attack, and he raced to 60 runs off just 65 balls before Ravindra Jadeja trapped him lbw before lunch.
As tensions simmered on and off the field, the incident between Kohli and Konstas became the highlight of the day’s play. While debates raged over whether Kohli crossed the line, the focus ultimately shifted back to the young Australian, who showed remarkable poise and skill under pressure, making his mark in one of cricket’s most iconic rivalries.
READ: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/preview/watch-virat-vs-sam-konstas-on-field-heated-exchange-sunil-gavaskar-not-impressed/">Shocking! Pakistan drops Abdullah Shafique as they announce XI for the Boxing-day Test against SA</a>

Virat Kohli and debutant Sam Konstas clashed mid-pitch during the Boxing Day Test, sparking debates over sportsmanship. Despite the altercation, Konstas shone with a bold 60-run knock, impressing on his Test debut.

Kohli's heated encounter with debutant Konstas added drama to the MCG Test, but Konstas stole the show with his fearless batting.

WATCH Virat vs Sam Konstas on-field Heated Exchange! Sunil Gavaskar NOT Impressed

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The fourth Test and the Boxing-Day Test-Match of the 2024-25 Border Gavaskar Trophy between Australia and India kicks off from tomorrow. The series is currently level at 1-1 as the third Test-Match in Brisbane ended in a draw. The upcoming Boxing-Day Test will be played at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) and this proves to be a major boost to the confidence of the Indian Team. 
The MCG is a ground where the Men in Blue have created a lot of records. In the last 76 years, the Indians have participated in 14 Test-Matches in Melbourne and have managed to win four of them
<h2>Face to face</h2>
The Blue Army have not lost a single match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) since the the Boxing-Day Test-Match in December of 2011. They have secured victories in one contest and two encounters have ended as draws. Overall, Team India has managed to reign supreme in four contests out of 14, suffering defeats in the other eight games. Two games have ended as draws. 
<h3>Team India at the MCG</h3>
The Men in Blue secured a comfortable win in the 2021-22 Boxing-Day Test-Match versus the Mighty Aussies even without Virat Kohli. Skipper Ajinkya Rahane's brilliant knock of 112 runs were crucial in the team's victory. 
In the BGT series of 2018-19, the Indians secured yet another victory which was also their first at the MCG since 2011, thanks to Cheteshwar Pujara's 106 runs knock and the nine wickets taken by Jasprit Bumrah. The 2014-15 MCG Boxing-Day Test-Match between Australia and India ended in a draw. 
The Men in Blue played their 1st test at the MCG in 1948 and it was the third match of the five-match Test-Series versus the Kangaroos. The Australians ended up winning that match by a comfortable margin of 233 runs. The main highlight of that contest was two back-to-back centuries by the legendary Sir Don Bradman. Vinoo Mankad also slammed a hundred for the Indian Team. 
The Men in Blue won their first ever Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in the year 1977 thanks to Bhagwat Chandrasekhar's 12-wicket haul and a century by the legendary Sunil Gavaskar in the third inning of that contest. The team won that encounter by a margin of 222 runs. 
Legendary batsman Sachin Tendulkar is the highest run-getter for India at the MCG with 449 runs at an average of 44.9. The most wickets are taken by Anil Kumble and Jasprit Bumrah. Both have taken 15 wickets each. India's highest score at the venue is 465, scored in 2014-15. Kohli has scored 316 runs at the MCG at an average of 52.66. That is why Indian fans are eagerly waiting for the Kohli-Bumrah partnership.

Do Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/ind-vs-aus-smith-and-cummins-eye-huge-milestones-in-boxing-day-test-versus-india/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">IND vs AUS: Smith and Cummins eye huge milestones in Boxing Day Test versus India</a>

KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill of India celebrating a wicket with Mohammed Siraj in the Gabba Test-Match | Image: Getty Images

The Indian Cricket Team haven't lost a single match at the MCG since 2011 and this ground has proven to be a lucky one for them. They have played 14 Tests in Melbourne in the last 76 years, winning four of them.

BGT: Team India hasn't lost a single game in Melbourne since 2011! Know the Men in Blue's record at their lucky stadium

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India fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah has touched another feather of greatness following his heroics with the ball in Test cricket. The vice-captain of the Indian Test team now has the joint highest rating by an Indian bowler in Test ranking, equalling Ravichandran Ashwin with 904 rating points. 
Jasprit Bumrah also becomes the first fast bowler from India to reach 904 ratings in the ICC Test rankings. The premier fast bowler achieved the feat after his sensational performance with the ball in the third Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25, which took place at the Gabba in Brisbane. 
Jasprit Bumrah picked 6 wickets in the first innings and followed it up with a three-wicket haul in the second innings. The vice-captain of the Indian Test team will now have a great chance to go past Ravichandran Ashwin's tally of 904 rating points as there are still two games left in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. 
<h2>Jasprit Bumrah is the leading wicket-taker in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25</h2>
Jasprit Bumrah, who is the No.1 ranked Test bowler, is also the leading wicket-taker in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. The fast bowler has taken 21 wickets in the three games that he has played in the series and has troubled the opposition pacers. 
Jasprit Bumrah has looked in golden touch in the ongoing series against Australia. The fast bowler will be extremely crucial for the Indian team in the last two games of the series. He will be the key for India and would want to carry on his golden form with bat. 
If India has to fancy their chances of winning the last two series of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25, Jasprit Bumrah surely will have to bring his A game. The premier pacer also would want some support from the other players in the team as they looked to seal the series. 
The Test series between India and Australia is levelled at 1-1. If the Rohit Sharma-led manage to win even one game in the series, they will retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Also, they need to win two games to reach the final of the ICC World Test Championship.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/3-player-battles-to-watch-out-for-in-the-fourth-ind-vs-aus-test-at-the-mcg/">3 Player Battles to Watch out for in the Fourth IND vs AUS Test at the MCG</a>

India fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah has touched another feather of greatness following his heroics with the ball in Test cricket

Jasprit Bumrah equals Ravichandran Ashwin's massive record and becomes the first Indian pacer to...

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The fourth Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 between India and Australia is just a sleep away from now. The match between the teams is all set to take place at the Melbourne Cricket Ground in Melbourne from Thursday (26th December). 
India has been training hard to prepare for the Boxing Day Test and has almost ticked every box right. But as per the various reports, it is learned that the Rohit Sharma-led side is expected to make a few changes in the team going into the game, looking at conditions. 
<h2>There is a lot of debate going around Shubman Gill's batting ahead of the MCG Test </h2>
One of the biggest changes that is expected on the cards is that skipper Rohit Sharma will be taking his opening spot and will walk out to bat at the start with Yashasvi Jaiswal. Not only this, KL Rahul, who has done a great job as an opener, will be asked to bat at No.3 in the MCG Test. 
With Rohit Sharma moving to top and KL Rahul at No.3, the situation becomes tricky for Shubman Gill. As per the reports in Cricbuzz, it is learned that there is a lot of debate going around his batting ahead of the Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground in Melbourne. 
Shubman Gill, who hasn't scored a Test half-century outside India since 2021, might even get dropped. This is because the reports suggest that they might look to add another spinner in the team in Washington Sundar, and to fit him in the XI, Gill or Nitish Reddy might have to make way.
By removing Shubman Gill, India will be having an extra bowling action and they might be tempted to do that. This is because Nitish Kumar Reddy has shown great promise as a batter in the series and has also been decent with the ball as well in the series. 
Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/3-player-battles-to-watch-out-for-in-the-fourth-ind-vs-aus-test-at-the-mcg/">3 Player Battles to Watch out for in the Fourth IND vs AUS Test at the MCG</a>
Shubman Gill, who missed the first Test in Perth, hasn't been able to make valuable contributions to the team. He had starts in Adelaide but failed to get going and in Gabba, he got out while playing rash shot. The batter has scored just 60 runs in the three innings.

With Rohit Sharma moving to top and KL Rahul at No.3, the situation becomes tricky for Shubman Gill.

Shubman Gill's place in massive doubt! Will the batter play the Boxing-day Test?

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Australia Cricket Team's test skipper Pat Cummins and elite batter Steven Smith are on the brink of securing significant-milestones ahead of the Boxing-Day Test-Match versus Team India. 
Smith, who brought an end to his 25-inning hundred drought in the Gabba Test-Match which ended in a draw, possesses an incredible record with the bat in Boxing-Day Test-Matches as he has amassed 1,093 runs in 11 games at an unbelievable average of 78.07, with four hundreds and five half-centuries next to his name.
The 35-year-old is away by just 191 runs to reach the milestone of 10,000 runs in the longest format of the game and become just the fourth Aussie batter to achieve the massive landmark after Allan Border, Ricky Ponting and the legendary Steve Waugh. 
Smith's current runs tally in Test-Matches stands at 9,809 runs after taking part in 112 games and 200 innings, with an amazing average of 56.05 and he has also scored 33 hundreds and 41 half centuries. 
Pat Cummins on the other hand, is also approaching yet another huge milestone as he is close to completing 500 wickets in International Cricket.
The 31-year-old pacer needs to dismiss eight more batters to become just the seventh Aussie bowler to pick up 500 wickets in International Cricket after the likes of the legendary Shane Warne, Brett Lee, Mitchell Johnson, Glenn McGrath, Mitchell Starc and Nathan Lyon. 
The Australian skipper has currently picked up 492 wickets at a really good average of 24.53, with his best figures standing at 6-23 and he also has 14 five-wicket-hauls next to his name.
<h2>Australia's Playing 11 for the Boxing-Day Test-Match versus India</h2>
Pat Cummins (Captain), Sam Konstas, Alex Carey (WK), Mitch Marsh, Usman Khawaja, Steven Smith, Mitchell Starc, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Travis Head and Scott Boland.

Do Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/ind-vs-aus-4th-test-dream-11-teams-h2h-record-pitch-report-weather-report-and-more/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">IND vs AUS 4th Test: Dream 11 Teams, H2H Record, Pitch Report, Weather Report and more</a>

Steve Smith (L) and Pat Cummins (R) of Australia | Image: Getty Images

The Australian duo of Steven Smith and Pat Cummins are anticipated to play an important role in helping Australia win the BGT after 10 years. Both of them are also looking to secure massive milestones in the Boxing-Day Test-Match versus India

IND vs AUS: Smith and Cummins eye huge milestones in Boxing Day Test versus India

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The highly anticipated high-intensity encounter between fierce-rivals India and Australia is set to unfold in the fourth Test-Match of the 2024-25 Border Gavaskar Trophy, a match which has created a lot of excitement &amp; buzz among fans and Cricket enthusiasts. 
Known as the Boxing-Day Test-Match, this iconic contest will be played at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) from the 26th of December onwards, kicking off at 5:00 AM Indian Standard Time (IST). As the series is level at 1-1, fans are eager to see which team will take the series lead in this battle between the fierce-rivals
The road to this all-important Boxing-Day Test-Match has been a rollercoaster ride for both teams. The Rohit Sharma-led team started the series on a strong note, securing a dominant 295-runs victory in the Perth Test-Match only for the Mighty Australians to bounce back on a strong note, reigning supreme in the Adelaide Test-Match by a comfortable margin of 10 wickets. 
The Gabba Test-Match was a really important and exciting one for both sides but due to constant rain interruptions, the contest ended in a draw. However, immediately post the conclusion of that match, Indian Cricket Team's elite off-spinner, Ravichandran Ashwin announced his decision to retire from International Cricket, leaving fans and Cricket enthusiasts shocked.
As the Boxing-Day Test-Match emerges closer and closer, questions regarding the Starting XI will be asked. Will Indian Captain Rohit Sharma fit enough to play in the 4th Test? Sharma's participation in the Melbourne Test-Match is eagerly anticipated, as is the potential inclusion of Australia's hard hitting batter Travis Head who is facing some injury related issues too. In this article, we will be taking a look at the best possible Dream 11 team and other related information to the game.
<h2>IND vs AUS: Head-2-Head records in Test Cricket between Australia and India</h2>
Fierce-rivals Australia and India have played a total of 110 Test-Matches versus each other and out of these 110 encounters, the Men in Blue have triumphed on 33 occasions while the Mighty Australians have had the upperhand over the Indians as they have reigned supreme in 46 contests. 30 matches between the two sides have ended in a draw while one contest ended in a tie.
<h3>IND vs AUS 4th Test: Pitch-Report of the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) </h3>
In recent years, the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) has created pitches which prove to be favourable for the seamers making a bowling paradise for the speedsters. While the MCG surface lacks the sharp bouncy nature of the Optus Stadium of Perth or the helpful seam-movement of the Gabba Stadium, it's 6mm grass-covering makes it's surface a favourable one for the fast bowlers. 
As the game progresses and the pitch starts to wear out, the spinners will then start coming into the game. Overall, the Melbourne Boxing-Day Test-Match promises to be an even encounter between bat and ball.
<h2>IND vs AUS 4th Test: Weather Forecast of Melbourne</h2>
The weather forecast of the fourth Test-Match in Melbourne is going to prove to be a mixed-bag. On the first day of the contest (26th of December), there's a 50% chance of rain interrupting with the proceedings of the game, with strong-winds anticipated in the evening period. The second day is also expected to be a rain affected one, with possible showers in the morning hours. 
However, the weather conditions are anticipated to see improvisations from the 3rd day onwards, with the rain percentage reducing to 30%. The fourth and fifth days of the contest are expected to have minimal rain interruptions, offering better playing conditions.
<h2>IND vs AUS 4th Test: When and Where to watch the match live in India? </h2>
The Boxing-Day Test-Match between fierce-rivals India and Australia will kick off from Thursday, 26th of December onwards. The proceedings of the contest will start from 5:00 AM Indian Standard Time (IST) onwards and Indian fans can tune into the Star Sports 1 &amp; Star Sports 1-HD channels to catch the live action of the contest. The Hindi coverage of the Boxing-Day Test-Match can be watched live on the Star Sports 1 Hindi and Star Sports 1 Hindi HD channels. 
For the OTT lovers, the application &amp; website of Disney + Hotstar will be offering live-streaming services for the forthcoming match.
<h2>IND vs AUS 4th Test: Best Dream 11 team for the forthcoming contest between Australia and India</h2>
Wicket Keepers: Rishabh Pant and KL Rahul
Batters: Travis Head, Virat Kohli and Steven Smith
All Rounders: Ravindra Jadeja and Nitish Reddy
Bowlers: Pat Cummins, Jasprit Bumrah, Mitchell Starc and Mohammed Siraj
<h2>IND vs AUS 4th Test: Best player options for Captain and Vice-Captain | Dream 11</h2>
Captain: Jasprit Bumrah, Travis Head
Vice-Captain: Mitchell Starc, Steven Smith

Do Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/ind-vs-aus-4th-test-mcg-pitch-report-ground-conditions-and-weather-forecast/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">IND vs AUS 4th Test: MCG Pitch Report, Ground Conditions, and Weather Forecast</a>

Ravindra Jadeja of India scored a brilliant half-century in the Gabba Test-Match versus Australia | Image: Getty Images

The Boxing-Day Test-Match between India and Australia promises to be a really exciting and exciting encounter with the series currently level at 1-1, both sides would be looking to make full use of the conditions on offer and take the lead in the series. In this article, we will be taking a look at various details related to the match

IND vs AUS 4th Test: Dream 11 Teams, H2H Record, Pitch Report, Weather Report and more

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IND vs AUS 4th Test: The stage is set for an epic showdown as cricketing giants India and Australia prepare to face off at the Melbourne Cricket Ground during the much-anticipated Boxing Day Test Match. The stakes couldn't be higher with the series delicately poised at 1-1. These final two Tests carry immense significance as they will determine who walks away victorious in this gripping Border-Gavaskar Trophy series.
For India, a win at the MCG means retaining the coveted trophy, solidifying their dominance. On the other hand, Australia is eyeing a breakthrough victory, one that would mark their first series triumph over India in a decade. A loss for the hosts would spark serious introspection, while for India, a defeat could leave their World Test Championship (WTC) journey hanging by a thread. 
<img class="img-additional" src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202412/image_430x256_67567da01e404.jpg" alt="">
The Gabba Test may have ended on a damp note just six days ago, but the cricketing world has been buzzing with developments ever since. India’s bowling maestro Jasprit Bumrah has forced Australia to reshuffle their top order, paving the way for the remarkable debut of 19-year-old Sam Konstas, who steps into the limelight after just 11 first-class games. This bold move by Australia reflects their determination to counter India’s fiery attack and regain control of the series.
However, off-field controversies have added extra spice to the build-up. Indian captain Virat Kohli had a heated exchange with a reporter at Melbourne airport, and Ravindra Jadeja stirred up debate by answering media questions exclusively in Hindi.
To top it off, whispers of a conspiracy surfaced when the visitors were reportedly given used pitches to practice on at the MCG. With tempers flaring and tensions mounting, all eyes are on Boxing Day, where the fate of the series—and perhaps much more—will be decided.
<h2>IND vs AUS 4th Test: Melbourne Cricket Ground</h2>
With a clear weather forecast and MCG’s recent history favoring results, a draw seems unlikely, especially with an expected crowd of over 90,000 eagerly awaiting this high-stakes drama.
<img class="img-additional" src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202412/image_430x256_676b8808363bf.jpg" alt="">
<h3>Pitch Report</h3>
In recent years, the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) has worked to create Test pitches that favor pace bowlers, making it a battleground for speedsters. While it lacks the sharp bounce of Perth or the pronounced seam movement of the Gabba, the MCG compensates with a lively 6mm grass covering, ensuring a pace-friendly surface for the fast bowlers to exploit early on.
As the match progresses, spinners are expected to step into the spotlight, playing a crucial role in the latter stages. Interestingly, the pitch offers no clear edge to teams batting first or second, adding an unpredictable element to the game. However, according to curator Matt Page, the surface is unlikely to crack enough to significantly aid spin, keeping the pacers firmly in the spotlight.
<h3>Weather Forecast</h3>
The weather forecast for the fourth Test at the MCG brings a mix of uncertainty and optimism. Day 1 (December 26) comes with a 50% chance of rain, potentially disrupting play, while strong winds are expected to make conditions challenging in the evening. Day 2 might also see morning showers, keeping the teams on edge as they adapt to unpredictable interruptions.
From Day 3 onward, the outlook brightens significantly, with rain chances dropping to just 30%, paving the way for more uninterrupted cricket. The fourth and fifth days are expected to have minimal rainfall, offering favorable conditions for the match's climax. As the weather shapes the narrative, players must seize every opportunity amid these shifting conditions.
READ: I<a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/india-playing-11-for-the-fourth-test-against-australia-prediction-/">ndia playing 11 for the fourth Test against Australia prediction</a>

The MCG Test promises high stakes, pace-friendly pitches, unpredictable weather, and fiery contests. India and Australia face off with the series tied, amid off-field drama, rising stars, and crucial World Test Championship implications.

High-stakes cricket at MCG: Series tied, pace-friendly pitch, unpredictable weather, off-field drama, rising stars, and trophy-deciding action! The Fourth Test between India and Australia is going to bring it all to us!

IND vs AUS 4th Test: MCG Pitch Report, Ground Conditions, and Weather Forecast

ind-vs-aus-4th-test-mcg-pitch-report-ground-conditions-and-weather-forecast

Fierce-rivals India and Australia are currently squaring off versus each other in the currently ongoing 2024-25 Border Gavaskar Trophy series. Following the completion of the first three games, the series is level at 1-1.
However, a big incident took place after the conclusion of the Gabba Test-Match. Team India's elite off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin made a shock announcement that he will be retiring from International Cricket and this decision shocked the entire Cricketing world. 
His decision to retire seems to have been executed due to the emergence of Washington Sundar and the preference which the Indian management gave to the youngster over Ashwin. However, it's believed that the 38-year-old off-spinner took the harsh decision of hanging up his boots as he wasn't given much importance in Overseas Test-Matches and this situation has persisted in the current BGT series as well.
In this situation, it's been reported by many sports news websites that following the retirement of Ashwin, one more star Indian player is likely to call time on their Test Career within a span of one week. And it's none other than pacer Mohammed Shami.
Shami is has missed out on selection from the remaining two matches due to a minor swelling in his left-knee. It's being reported that the seamer will wait till the end of the fourth Test-Match and if the BCCI decides that Shami will not be considered for the fifth and final match of the 2024-25 Border Gavaskar Trophy, then he is anticipated to announce his retirement from the longest format of the game. 
Some rumors are also suggesting that the pacer will only be ready to play five-day format matches for the Men in Blue if they manage to qualify for the final of the 2023-2025 cycle of WTC. 
<h2>What are the chances of Shami getting selected in Team India's squad for the upcoming 2025 edition of the Champions Trophy?</h2>
34-year-old Mohammed Shami is currently representing the team of Bengal in the ongoing 2024-25 edition of the Vijay Hazare tournament. This competition is considered as a crucial one for the fast bowler as his good performances with the ball will guarantee him a place in the Indian Cricket Team's squad for the 2025 Champions Trophy starting in February of next year. 
Reportedly, post the conclusion of next year's Mega-Event, Shami is planning to retire from International Cricket and place his focus solely on the IPL

Do Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/icc-unveil-the-official-champions-trophy-2025-schedule-know-all-the-details-regarding-india-s-matches/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ICC unveil the official Champions Trophy 2025 schedule, know all the details regarding India's matches</a>


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Mohammed Shami of India is currently playing for Bengal in the ongoing edition of the Vijay Hazaar Trophy | Image: PTI

It's likely that one more star player is going to follow in the footsteps of Ravi Ashwin and announce his retirement from Test Cricket post the conclusion of the BGT 2024 series vs Australia

IND vs AUS: Following the retirement of Ashwin, this star player plans to announce his retirement in 1 week, this is the reason

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India batter Virat Kohli has been under the spotlight for his batting in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. The batter started the series on a high as he hit a magnificent century in the opening game the Perth. 
However, after that, Virat Kohli hasn't been at his best, as he has fallen cheaply and has bagged a series of low scores. The premier batter has struggled against the balls outside off as Australia pacers have found the weakness to send him packing early on in innings. 
After scoring a century in Perth, Virat Kohli has struggled to get going with most of his dismissals coming against the balls outside off. The premier batter after that innings in Perth has added just 26 runs, which is a cause for concern. 
In Adelaide, Virat Kohli got out against Mitchell Starc and then Scott Boland. In the Gabba Test, he got out while driving the ball towards cover against Hazlewood. This has seen him getting criticised a lot for his approach. 
But to negate this threat, Virat Kohli worked hard in the nets. As per the reports in Sports Tak, it is learned that the batter focussed on leaving the ball and looked very solid, best in the nets so far in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25.
<h2>Virat Kohli reportedly asked Harshit Rana and Prasidh Krishna to bowl to him outside off stump, asks fast bowlers to bowl fast</h2>
Virat Kohli reportedly asked Harshit Rana and Prasidh Krishna to bowl to him outside off stump. Not only this, the fast bowler also was telling the pacers to bowl fast and also was seen shouldering their arm so that the bowler would not find an edge even if there was extra bounce.  
Virat Kohli will be key for India going into the next match of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. He would be keen to silence all his critics and help his team win the next game of the series at the Melbourne Cricket Ground in Melbourne.
Also Read:<a href="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/admin/India%20playing%2011%20for%20the%20fourth%20Test%20against%20Australia%20prediction"> </a><a href="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/admin/India%20playing%2011%20for%20the%20fourth%20Test%20against%20Australia%20prediction">India playing 11 for the fourth Test against Australia prediction</a>

India batter Virat Kohli has been under the spotlight for his batting in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25.

Virat Kohli finally manages to counter the challenge of the outside off-stump ball; comes up with this huge thing in nets

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India skipper Rohit Sharma provided a massive update about his fitness ahead of the fourth Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. The Boxing-day game of the series between the teams will be played at the Melbourne Cricket Ground in Melbourne. 
India was jolted by the massive blow as skipper Rohit Sharma was hit on the knee during the training session. The batter looked in immense pain and was also seen wearing an ice pack around his knee as it was learned that he had some swelling. 
Rohit Sharma also stopped batting in the nets as physios turned his attention towards him. However, after some attention, the batter looked fine and even batted in nets but the swelling was still there, raising speculations over his availability for the next game of the series. 
<h2>Knee is fine - Rohit Sharma </h2>
However, during the press conference ahead of the Melbourne Test, Rohit Sharma provided an update about his fitness. He mentioned that he is fine and will be playing the next match. He also talked about used pitches being given to them for practice. He stated: 
"Knee is fine. Nothing had changed since last I spoke. We had two sessions what can change? I think those pitches that we trained are used pitches. Today is the only day we are gonna get fresher wickets. Will go and see how it is, train accordingly." 
Rohit Sharma also believes that the series is fairly levelled at 1-1, depicting that both the teams have played a great brand of cricket. He elaborated: 
"It's been good. We have been fortunate as well the attitude boys showed after getting all out for 150 and then to bowl out for 100 Adelaide we didn't play well, Brisbane there wasn't much. After 3 Tests, if I look at 1-1 it's a fair reflection of how both teams have played." 
The MCG Test will be a great opportunity for Rohit Sharma to return to form and silence all his critics. The batter so far has scored 19 runs in the series and would want to set the stage on fire.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/tanush-kotian-over-kuldeep-or-axar-rohit-sharma-makes-a-big-revelation-why-india-picked-an-uncapped-spinner-ahead-of-boxing-day-test/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Tanush Kotian over Kuldeep or Axar? Rohit Sharma makes a big revelation why India picked an uncapped spinner ahead of Boxing Day Test</a>

India skipper Rohit Sharma provided a massive update about his fitness ahead of the fourth Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25