The Royal Challengers Bangalore are enjoying a dream run in the IPL. They made it to the playoffs for 3 consecutive IPL seasons! The players looked well-managed and coordinated in Faf?s captaincy. They will be keen on emulating the same performance in TATA IPL 2023. For this, the <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/royal-challengers-bangalore5-players-to-be-released-before-ipl-2023/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">RCB</a> team needs to stack up multi-faceted players. RCB has had decent all-rounders over the years. Their top all-rounder currently is Glenn Maxwell. <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/icc-t20i-player-of-the-year-2021-nominee-announced-mohammad-rizwan-mitchell-marsh-wanindu-hasaranga-jos-buttler/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Wanindu Hasaranga </a>is also an all-rounder. But who will the RCB management target and retain in TATA IPL 2023? Here?s a look:&nbsp;



<h2>1) Ben Stokes can play for Royal Challengers Bangalore in TATA IPL 2023:&nbsp;</h2>



Ben Stokes can play for RCB next season. The only two things that can prevent him from playing are his availability for the next season and whether RCB can liquidate that much purse for him. The fact of the matter is that RCB has always had superstars. They have played Chris Gayle, <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/ipl-2022-ab-de-villiers-and-chris-gayle-inducted-into-the-rcb-hall-of-fame/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AB De Villiers</a>, Virat Kohli, and Mitchell Starc together. This shows the capability of the management to manage many senior players at once. Here is a look at his stats in the IPL:&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Stats&nbsp;</td><td>Value&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>Matches&nbsp;</td><td>43&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>Runs&nbsp;</td><td>920&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>Wickets&nbsp;</td><td>28&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>Best Batting&nbsp;</td><td>107*&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>Best Bowling&nbsp;</td><td>3/15&nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



RCB has always been very lucrative concerning its branding. And no other player fits the bill more than Ben Stokes. Ben is the top all-rounder across the globe beside Ravindra Jadeja. He bats at number 5 and is expected to give at least 2 overs of good pace bowling. He also has a set of variations. He has previously played for the <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/ipl-2022-rajasthan-royals-rr-squad-2022-playing-11-schedule/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rajasthan Royals </a>and the Rising Pune Super Giants.&nbsp;



<h2>2) Chris Woakes:&nbsp;</h2>



Chris Woakes is expected to be available for the IPL next year. His chances of playing for RCB are higher as he has numbers and stats equivalent to that of Ben Stokes but he will come for a lower price. The market value of Chris Woakes is lower because his performances have gone into the eyes of the cricket community and he is not in the public eye. Woakes has previously played for RCB and has done well for the franchise. Here is a look at his stats in the IPL:&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Stats&nbsp;</td><td>Value&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>Matches&nbsp;</td><td>21&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>Runs&nbsp;</td><td>78&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>Wickets&nbsp;</td><td>30&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>Best Batting&nbsp;</td><td>15*&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>Best Bowling&nbsp;</td><td>3/6&nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2022/06/Chris-Woakes-min.jpg" alt="Royal Challengers Bangalore" class="wp-image-90329" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">IMG SRC: NDTV Sports</figcaption></figure>



Chris bowls a few overs in the powerplay and a few at the death. When fully-fit very few bowlers get as much swing as Chris gets. Woakes bowls at around 135 to 140 clicks. He can bat at number 7 or even at number 6 if the team relies on him. He has a hundred at the LORDs against an Indian bowling line-up. His batting abilities have not been effectively used by any franchise in the IPL.&nbsp;



<h2>3) Mahipal Lomror will play for Royal Challengers Bangalore in TATA IPL 2023:&nbsp;</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2022/06/Mahipal-Lomror-min.jpg" alt="TATA IPL 2023 Mahipal Lomror" class="wp-image-90330" width="797" height="588" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">IMG SRC: Espn Cricinfo</figcaption></figure>



Mahipal Lomror will play for the Royal Challengers Bangalore in TATA IPL 2023. The Rajasthan youngster will get another stint with RCB. His performance with the bat was above average this season. RCB did not use his bowling abilities but he can certainly bowl a few overs of leg-spin. He can be used in multiple ways but it is high time that RCB gives him a very well-defined role. Here is a look at his stats in the IPL:&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Stats&nbsp;</td><td>Value&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>Matches&nbsp;</td><td>18&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>Runs&nbsp;</td><td>267&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>Wickets&nbsp;</td><td>1&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>Best Batting&nbsp;</td><td>47&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>Best Bowling&nbsp;</td><td>1/22&nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



The best role for Mahipal will be off the number 5 batter or the number 4 batter. But with Maxi in the mix, number 4 belongs to Maxi any day. So, number 5 will fit the bill for Mahipal Lomror. They need to back this player. His ball-striking ability is like no other. Also being left-handed he adds a dynamic nature to the batting. He can also be floated up but that is not the ideal thing to do with an uncapped player. &nbsp;



Read more such articles at <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/mumbai-indians-top-3-all-rounders-to-target-in-tata-ipl-2023/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mumbai Indians: Top 3 All-Rounders to Target in TATA IPL 2023.&nbsp;</a>



To read more such articles go to <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/tata-ipl-2023-top-3-all-rounders-the-chennai-super-kings-can-target/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">TATA IPL 2023: Top 3 All-Rounders the Chennai Super Kings can Target.</a>&nbsp;



Read more such articles at <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/tata-ipl-2022-top-5-bowling-performances-in-ipl-2022/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">TATA IPL 2022: Top 5 Bowling Performances in IPL 2022.&nbsp;</a>



To know more go to the <a href="https://www.royalchallengers.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">official website of RCB.</a>

Royal Challengers Bangalore: 3 All-Rounders to Target in IPL 2023. &nbsp;

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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

bgt-team-india-hasn-t-lost-a-single-game-in-melbourne-since-2011-know-the-men-in-blue-s-record-at-their-lucky-stadium

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...

jasprit-bumrah-equals-ravichandran-ashwin-s-massive-record-and-becomes-the-first-indian-pacer-to-

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?

shubman-gill-s-place-in-massive-doubt-will-the-batter-play-the-boxing-day-test-

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

ind-vs-aus-following-the-retirement-of-ashwin-this-star-player-plans-to-announce-his-retirement-in-1-week-this-is-the-reason

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

Rohit Sharma's knee injury rules him out of the MCG Test? Captain provides a colossal update

rohit-sharma-s-knee-injury-rules-him-out-of-the-mcg-test-captain-provides-a-colossal-update-

Cricket's global governing body, the International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday, 24th of December announced the official schedule and fixture list of the upcoming ICC Mega-Event, the 2025 Champions Trophy. The competition, featuring the top eight One-Day International teams, will be played between 19th of February to 9th of March, with matches to be help in Dubai and Pakistan. 
The opening fixture of the tournament will be played between Pakistan and New Zealand in the city of Karachi as both teams will be kicking off the tournament. A total of 15 games will be played over a span of 19 days, with the city's of Lahore, Karachi and Rawalpindi playing host to the games in Pakistan. UAE's Dubai will also host several encounters, including the all-important group-stage phase contests of the Indian Cricket Team and the first semi-final as well. 
The all-important Final is scheduled to be played on the 9th of March in the city of Lahore, unless Team India qualifies for the marquee match, in which case the summit clash will be shifted to Dubai. Both the semi-finals and the final will have reserve days if rain interrupts the proceedings of the contests.
The highly anticipated India vs Pakistan match will be played on the 23rd of February in Dubai, which is also going to be a highlight of the competition. Other key matches include Australia vs England on the 22nd of February in the city of Lahore and South Africa vs Afghanistan in Karachi on 21st of February. 
Each of the three Pakistani venues will play host to three group-stage encounters, with Lahore also set to host the 2nd Semi-Final. The Dubai leg of the Champions Trophy kicks off on 20th February, with the Men in Blue squaring off versus Asian-rivals Bangladesh. 
The 2025 edition of the Champions Trophy will witness the top eight teams from the 2023 Men's ODI World Cup competing versus each other to get their hands on the prestigious Trophy. Fans are eagerly waiting for this exciting tournament, with hosts Pakistan aiming to defend their title. 
<h2>Group Stages  </h2>
<h2>All of the participating teams are divided into two groups:  </h2>
- Group A: India, New Zealand, Bangladesh and Pakistan
- Group B: South Africa, England, Australia and Afghanistan

<h2>Champions Trophy 2025: Full schedule of the competition</h2>
19th of February, Wednesday: New Zealand versus Pakistan in the city of Karachi, Pakistan
 
20th of February, Thursday: Bangladesh versus India in the city of Dubai, UAE
 
21st of February, Friday: South Africa versus Afghanistan in the city of Karachi, Pakistan
 
22nd of February, Saturday: England versus Australia in the city of Lahore, Pakistan
 
23rd of February, Sunday: Pakistan versus India in the city of Dubai, UAE
 
24th of February, Monday: Bangladesh versus New Zealand in the city of Rawalpindi, Pakistan

25th of February, Tuesday: South Africa versus Australia in the city of Rawalpindi, Pakistan
 
26th of February, Wednesday: Afghanistan versus England in the city of Lahore, Pakistan
 
27th of February, Thursday: Bangladesh versus Pakistan in the city of Rawalpindi, Pakistan
 
28th of February, Friday: Australia versus Afghanistan in the city of Lahore, Pakistan

1st of March, Saturday: England versus South Africa in the city of Karachi, Pakistan
 
2nd of March, Sunday: New Zealand versus India in the city of Dubai, UAE
 
4th of March, Tuesday: First Semi-Final in the city of Dubai, UAE
 
5th of March, Wednesday: Second Semi-Final in the city of Lahore, Pakistan
 
9th of March, Sunday: The All-important Final in the city of Lahore (If Team India qualifies, then the match will get shifted to the city of Dubai, UAE) 
 
10th of March, Monday: Reserve-day for the Final

Do Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/3-players-who-can-prove-to-be-long-term-replacements-for-ravi-ashwin-in-india-s-test-team/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">3 Players who can prove to be long-term replacements for Ravi Ashwin in India's Test Team</a>

The Champions Trophy on display in the city of Karachi, Pakistan | Image: Getty Images

The eight-team tournament runs from February 19 to March 9. The highly-awaited India versus Pakistan match wi be played on the 23rd of February in the city of Dubai.