IND vs AUS: India is about to begin their upcoming hectic test schedule with the first home test against Bangladesh. There has been much buzz around India?s next 10-match test schedule, which comprises a 2-match home Test series against Bangladesh and then followed by an immediate 3-match red ball series against New Zealand. The most anticipated among them is the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, which is often one of the finest red ball tournaments played between the two modern-day greats of Test cricket. These two teams have emerged as the biggest rivals in test cricket, after England and Australia. Also, the Border-Gavaskar Trophy has been a monopoly for both the Aussies and the Indians whenever they play on their own land, and now it has been won by the Indian side four times in a row, with all of them being played in India. However, this time around players like Marnus Labuschagne have exclaimed that they might not have been able to win the series for long; however, they are a good team and will target their victory. While skipper <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pat_Cummins">Pat Cummins </a>also exclaimed that this has been the only trophy they have not won in a long time, he has also lauded India?s greatness and strengths as a team. 



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 After Aussie kingpin batter David Warner retired from Test matches, their master batter, Steven Smith, could be seen opening the innings alongside Usman Khawaja. However, Smith has not been relishing the role, as it often hampered his form until the 90+ score against the West Indies. 



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 However, the Aussie management has now made an official announcement that Steven Smith will be back in his role as a no. 4 batter, while their star white-ball opener, Travis Head, who has been a part of the red-ball team for a long time now, will be promoted up the order as an opener. Usman Khawaja and Travis Head will be their new opening pair from the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. While Labuschagne and Steven Smith will be the middle-order batters at no. 3 and no. 4. Now, as Head is promoted from no. 5 to the top, both all-rounders, Mitchell Marsh and Cameron Green, might be likely seen as batters at no. 6 and no. 5. 



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 Alex Carey and the three pacers alongside Lyon might be seen among the tailenders. The Indian team is also looking to make subtle and realistic changes to their squad, which they identified from the Duleep Trophy. 



ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/ipl-2025-3-stars-whom-kkr-might-appoint-as-their-mentors-after-gambhir-turned-india-head-coach/">IPL 2025: 3 stars whom KKR might appoint as their mentors after Gambhir turned India head coach</a> With the likes of Rohit Sharma and young Yashasvi Jaiswal likely being the openers, Shubman Gill is doubtful at No. 3 since his form has been a major concern. Hence, India's new head coach Gambhir might be trying out new batters at the position, while following veteran Kohli at second down, players like KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, Dhruv Jurel, and Sarfaraz Khan have been suitable for the middle order. India has the most suitable set of Test all-rounders, with Ravindra Jadeja and Ravi Ashwin being picked by the ICC as the top two in the men's Test all-rounder rankings. While Axar Patel has also been important for the role, as his batting prowess down the order adds to his excellence. 



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 Next, India?s pace attack might be spearheaded by Mohammad Shami after his return and the vice captain Jasprit Bumrah. They still remain in the hunt for their third pacer, as Akash Deep emerges as their ace option to be included in the role, while now, after his maiden call-up, even Dayal turns himself into a contender for the role. Hence, before the BGT this year, the Indian team is likely to undergo many major changes, which might be among the middle-order batters as well as their pace bowling deck. India is also in the quest to avenge their loss in the WTC final last time, as the defending champions might be the second team again to make it into the World Test Championship final alongside Team India for the third time, after their two initial losses.

IND vs AUS: With Steven Smith all set to come at No. 4 and Head to Open|||

IND vs AUS: With Steven Smith all set to come at No. 4 and Head to Open, what changes can be predicted to be seen before the upcoming BGT for both teams?

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IND vs AUS: Veteran Indian batter and skipper of the Indian test side, Rohit Sharma, might miss a few of the opening matches in the forthcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy owing to personal reasons. Reports suggest that Sharma has communicated his situation to the BCCI, though nothing has been made official from their end. The Indian team is scheduled to feature in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy, which will be held from the 22nd of November, with the first test at Perth. Rohit is currently under a busy red-ball schedule, as he has currently featured in a two-match test series against Bangladesh and will also be seen gearing up to lead the Indian side against the Kiwis this October. If Rohit can resolve his issue before the BGT, then he might feature in all of the matches of the series, while if not, then Abhimanyu Easwaran, who is supposed to lead the India A team, might be brought in to replace the Indian opener. However, the team has the likes of Shubman Gill and KL Rahul, who have extensive experience in taking over the role of an opener in the absence of their skipper. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Rohit Sharma?s recent form in red-ball cricket </h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/10/Disappinting-form-for-the-Indian-skipper.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-148473" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Rohit Sharma struggled with the bat against Bangladesh (Image Credit: myKhel)</figcaption></figure>



After, Sharma recently helped India begin their quest for the third consecutive WTC final in 2025 with a comfortable win over Bangladesh with a 2-0 victory. Though this time around his form saw a major dip, as he averaged 10.50, though he was India?s best-ranked ICC test batter before the start of the series. India is at the top of the points table of the WTC, as his next assignment begins on the 16th of October with a three-match test series against New Zealand. With this home series, Sharma would be in the quest to restore his stunning form in red-ball cricket to mark his commanding presence in the BGT before he sets foot on Australian soil to secure a hat-trick of wins on Australian soil. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Rohit Sharma?s role in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy</h2>



The Indian skipper would be a very vital player for the Men in Blue in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. Rohit?s ability on the back foot is what makes him a very important asset to the Indian team on Australian soil. Rohit is one of the finest players of a short ball, as he can be identified as the finest player of the pull shot, following the trademark of the great Aussie batter and skipper Ricky Ponting. Also, his aggressive intent is what hands his team a perfect start at the top of the order. The record for Rohit Sharma in Australia does not look great by his standards, as he has 408 runs scored over 7 Tests at an average of 31.38 without a century. However, when the Indian team in the WTC is considered, Rohit has been their highest scorer, with the most hundreds scored as well. 



ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/womens-t20-world-cup-2024-chances-of-india-womens-qualification-into-the-semi-finals-all-scenarios-explained/">Women?s T20 World Cup 2024: Chances of India Women?s Qualification into the Semi-finals: All scenarios explained</a>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Who can be Rohit?s deputy for the role of Indian skipper?</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/10/Bumrah-or-Pant-1024x534.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-148472" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Jasprit Bumrah or Rishabh Pant might be Rohit's deputy in the upcoming BGT (Image Credit: Cricket Times)</figcaption></figure>



Since there was no official player in the role of vice-captain of the Test team, India currently has no deputy player in the role in the longer format of the game against Bangladesh. However, many such players have been considered for the role, while they have the likes of Shubman Gill, India?s deputy across all other white-ball formats. While experienced hats like <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jasprit_Bumrah">Jasprit Bumrah</a> and Rishabh Pant are also placed into the side, who can be considered for such a role? "I wouldn't look at them as youngsters anymore. Yes, they are youngsters in terms of age and the amount of cricket they have played. But, I think overall, mentally and in their development as a cricketer, I think they have the leadership qualities that are required. You don't need to have a vice-captain that should be designated," claimed Abhishek Nayar on assigning the role of vice-captain to some player in the Indian team.

IND vs AUS: No Hitman in BGT!! Reports speculate that Indian skipper Rohit Sharma might miss a few matches in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy; search over deputy continues||

IND vs AUS: No Hitman in BGT!! Reports speculate that Indian skipper Rohit Sharma might miss a few matches in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy; search over deputy continues

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IND vs NZ: India, who started their long schedule of 10-test matches with a win against Bangladesh in their home series, next saw New Zealand visiting the Indian subcontinent for the same. India has not had the finest of starts to the series, as they faced sheer humiliation in having succumbed to a low score of 46, which is the second-lowest ever WTC total score in the history of the game, and both of them have been part of the Indian team?s tally of runs. The Kiwis batted on the same track as they put on a far better score when first Devon Conway on Day 2 and later <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rachin_Ravindra">Rachin Ravindra</a> the centurion alongside Tim Southee, who batted down the order for a quickfire fifty, led the Blackcaps to a huge 400+ total.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/10/Rachin-Ravindra-NZ.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-148704" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Rachin Ravindra scores a hundred in debut test in India (Image Credit: News18)</figcaption></figure>



 The Indian batters pulled in a better match in the second inning, as skipper Sharma gave the start with a quickfire fifty, followed by Kohli and Sarfaraz?s master partnership to end the day with a respectable 231/3. However, for India, who are supposed to win at least 5 of their next 8 test matches, nothing would concern them if India loses the first Test against New Zealand. This loss, if it takes place, will not jeopardize India?s WTC chances. 



ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/pak-vs-eng-updated-wtc-points-table-following-pakistans-win-in-the-2nd-test-match-pakistan-rise-to-the-8th-spot/">PAK vs ENG: Updated WTC Points-Table following Pakistan?s win in the 2nd test-match, Pakistan rise to the 8th spot</a> However, this would be a concern for sure?that India would have been in a better position if they could have clean-swept the New Zealand team under home conditions. With two days left in the test, we still await the match, with India trailing by 125 runs.



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 With the threat of rain still over the Bengaluru ground, the overcast conditions might prevail again as the match could go in favour of the visiting team, who are very adapted to such conditions. India would still be in the hope of strengthening their scope in the remaining two tests before they enter the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, which is supposed to begin in Australia next month.

IND vs NZ: What happens to India?s qualification scenario for the WTC final if India loses the first test against New Zealand?|

IND vs NZ: What happens to India?s qualification scenario for the WTC final if India loses the first test against New Zealand?

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Legendary Indian pacer Mohammad Shami has hinted at his return from injury. Shami stated in a recent tweet that he is pain-free now and he wants to bowl a few overs in a domestic circle before the start of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. The legendary pacer supposedly informed that he would look to feature for Bengal in the Ranji Trophy games to deck himself as Border-Gavaskar Trophy. To quote Shami, ?I am pain-free now. I want to make sure I bowl enough before going to Australia. And for that, I?m targeting 1-2 Ranji games." (Revsportz). Mohammad Shami has been one of the most successful bowlers for India in the longest format of the game. Known widely for his accuracy and impeccable seam position, Shami can often seam the ball under any conditions. 



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 If the Border-Gavaskar Trophy is to be taken into consideration, India would need an experienced campaigner like Shami in the side to spearhead bowling alongside<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jasprit_Bumrah"> Jasprit Bumrah</a>. India, who are now in need of winning the BGT to secure their entry into the third WTC final, this duo would be an asset for the side. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Mohammed Shami was last seen for India in the ODI World Cup</h2>



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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/10/Shamis-World-Cup-campaign-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-148796" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mohammad Shami's breathtaking World Cup campaign (Image Credit: ESPNcricinfo)</figcaption></figure>
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Mohammad Shami last stepped onto the cricket field with the white ball in hand back in 2023, where he was a surprise package, as he kept picking wickets for India at an amazing rate. After the World Cup, he suffered from an ankle injury post-surgery; he has been in rehabilitation. Some reports claimed that he might miss the Border-Gavaskar Trophy matches, and he responded strongly against the rumours. Meanwhile, the veteran pacer said, ?The only thing on my mind is to ensure that I am fit and how strong I can be for the Australia series. I can see what kind of attack we need in Australia. I have to spend more time on the ground.? This remains a concern about whether Shami would be fit on time before the five-match series against Australia begins in November.



ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/icc-mens-test-team-rankings-latest-updated-after-ind-vs-nz-1st-test/">ICC Men?s Test Team Rankings Latest Updated After IND vs NZ 1st Test</a>

Mohammad Shami has dropped a major on his return to the red-ball side before the Border-Gavaskar Trophy|

Mohammad Shami has dropped a major on his return to the red-ball side before the Border-Gavaskar Trophy

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IND vs NZ: India has been the only side who have repeatedly made it to the finals of the World Test Championship, which is held following a long two-year group stage match in the longest format of the game. The first final of the championship was played between India and New Zealand, while the next WTC final, which was scheduled for 2023, featured the Indian team against the Australians, as in both scenarios India lost the ultimate test to the neighbouring nations. This time around as well, India stands as the firm team as they have established themselves at the top of the WTC 2023-25 points table, with their latest win in the red-ball format coming against Bangladesh in a 2-match home series. Even after the first test loss at the Chinnaswamy against New Zealand, India?s chances at the WTC were not shaken. The ongoing second test at Pune is turning out to be another nightmare home test for the Indian team. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/10/Washington-Sundar-7-for.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-148968" style="width:693px;height:auto" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Washington Sundar - India's lone fighter in the Pune Test with 11 wickets (Image Credit: India Today)</figcaption></figure>



 However, Indian spinners <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Washington_Sundar">Washington Sundar</a> and Ravi Ashwin aced with the ball as India reduced the visitors to a minor total of 259 in the first inning. They faced a blow on the slower and turning pitch of Pune. Mitchell Santner overpowered the Indians and seemed to have trapped them in their own hole, as the Kiwi spinner picked 7 wickets alongside Glenn Phillips; he restricted the hosts to only 156, which gave the Kiwis an early 103-run lead. 



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 After such developments, which seem very abrupt for a team of India?s calibre, questions have arisen over India?s WTC chances ahead of a potential loss in the Pune Test. India has played 12 matches in the WTC and has managed eight wins and is hence placed at the top with a PCT of 68.060 with 98 points. On the other hand, defending champions Australia are second in the points table with 90 points and a PCT of 62.50. The teams that can fancy their chances any further lie in Sri Lanka, placed third, and will next host Pakistan at home, while New Zealand and South Africa are placed next, and can fancy their chances at the WTC final. 



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 South Africa is currently the most probable side to make their first entry into the WTC final if Australia fails to advance with losses in the BGT. South Africa is in a situation to advance only if they win all of their games. However, if India loses the second game, they can still make it straight into the WTC finals even if they win at least 3 of their remaining 6 games in the WTC. The team will travel to Australia for the BGT, sighting their form in the nation only a layman can way off India?s chances into the third consecutive WTC final.



ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/pak-vs-eng-updated-wtc-points-table-following-pakistans-historic-victory-in-the-3rd-test-match/">PAK vs ENG: Updated WTC Points Table Following Pakistan?s Historic Victory in the 3rd Test-Match</a>

IND vs NZ: What will happen to India?s WTC chances if they lose the second test against New Zealand at Pune?|

IND vs NZ: What will happen to India?s WTC chances if they lose the second test against New Zealand at Pune?

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The IND vs AUS Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 is slowly gaining further importance in terms of this WTC. Since India has slipped their PCT to almost a marginal difference with the defending champions Australia, they would also be in the quest for a very successful BGT to better their chances for the WTC final. Before the BGT, India A will take on Australia A for the 2-match series, for which Cricket Australia has announced the 17-member squad. India has made the squad announcement for the BGT, as Australia is yet to announce the squad. Playing the Sheffield Shield, many Australian players are looking to gear up for their probable entry to the squad for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, which can be a triumphing series for the home team as well. 



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 The Aussies have faced a major setback since <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David_Warner_(cricketer)">David Warner</a> retired from the longest format of the game, as earlier Steve Smith was seen playing in the opening slot. In recent reports, Smith suggested that he might be moved back down the order to his natural position of No. 4, especially to strengthen their middle order in the absence of ace all-rounder Cameron Green. 



<div class="wp-block-rank-math-toc-block" id="rank-math-toc"><nav><ul><li class=""><a href="#sam-konstas-and-nathan-mc-sweeney-have-stepped-in-as-the-ideal-aussie-opening-replacements">Sam Konstas and Nathan McSweeney have stepped in as the ideal Aussie opening replacements</a></li><li class=""><a href="#likes-of-beau-webster-and-aaron-hardie-are-in-roles-to-replace-cameron-green">Likes of Beau Webster and Aaron Hardie are in roles to replace Cameron Green</a></li></ul></nav></div>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="sam-konstas-and-nathan-mc-sweeney-have-stepped-in-as-the-ideal-aussie-opening-replacements">Sam Konstas and Nathan McSweeney have stepped in as the ideal Aussie opening replacements</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/10/Sam-Konstas.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-148995" style="width:689px;height:auto" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The rising talent for Australian cricket - Sam Konstas (Image Credit: The Sydney Morning Herald)</figcaption></figure>



Sam Konstas, the player who went on to win the U-19 World Cup this time around with the Aussies, has emerged as a major talent in the Australian domestic circle. Konstas, who scored his twin hundreds, has been compared with Ricky Ponting, the great captain, who had the same feat achieved 21 years ago in the Shield game. Another major name to have stepped up in the opening role alongside Usman Khawaja would include the likes of Nathan McSweeney or seasonal impactful Cameron Bancroft, who has been on the target list of George Bailey, the national selector. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/10/Cameron-Bancroft-1024x576.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-148996" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Cameron Bancroft ideal to pair alongside Khawaja for Tests (Image Credit: Fox Sports)</figcaption></figure>



 McSweeney started off his Sheild season with a confident hundred, while Cameron Bancroft averaged over 50.67 in the last two summers on the Sheffield Shield seasons, especially when run-scoring turned difficult in the previous season. Another major name in the squad includes <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marcus_Harris_(cricketer)">Marcus Harris</a>, who has had international experience, though in 2022, owing to his weak form, he was dismissed from the squad, despite being a part of Australia's WTC winning squad. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="likes-of-beau-webster-and-aaron-hardie-are-in-roles-to-replace-cameron-green">Likes of Beau Webster and Aaron Hardie are in roles to replace Cameron Green</h2>



Missing out on Cameron Green would be a huge concern for the Australian side, as his batting abilities are often an asset for the Aussies in the middle order. Likes of Mitchell Marsh might be the known all-rounder in the middle order, but his bowling void seems eminent. Webster is one of the greatest all-rounders in the Australian domestic circle, as he has averaged over 53.12 playing for Tasmania with the bat. Webster is a unique bowler who bowls an intermediate between medium pace and off-spin, as he completed 66 wickets over the last two seasons. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/10/Beau-Webster-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-148997" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Webster is the most in-form player to replace Cameron Green (Image Credit: X.com)</figcaption></figure>



 His chances for Australia A might hand him better chances, as his versatility can hand him a spot in the Aussie test squad, and his spin can be effective against India despite their overseas conditions, while also being effective for the Sri Lankan tour. Hardie, who has often been drafted to replace the likes of Cameron Green in limited-overs cricket, can be an equally effective bowler while his batting finesse is still under the radar. Likes of Sean Abbott, Michael Neser, and Scott Boland are always in consideration for the red-ball matches that are yet to come, while Murphy might also be sighted as the optional spinner alongside Nathan Lyon for the BGT. 



ALSO READ:<a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/huge-update-for-csk-fans-as-reports-claim-ms-dhoni-is-all-set-to-feature-for-csk-in-ipl-2025/"> Huge update for CSK fans as reports claim MS Dhoni is all set to feature for CSK in IPL 2025</a>

IND vs AUS Border-Gavaskar Trophy: With Steven Smith destined to be back at No. 4, these players are auditioning for the opening spot in the Australian 11|||

IND vs AUS Border-Gavaskar Trophy: With Steven Smith destined to be back at No. 4, these players are auditioning for the opening spot in the Australian 11

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IND vs AUS Border-Gavaskar Trophy: India is all set to tour the Aussie island for a five-match series in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, named after the two legends of the game from both nations. India will tour Australia for a red-ball series after a three-year break in 2021, where India emerged the proud winners, while the series this time is scheduled from 22nd November at every iconic venue in Australia. The BCCI earlier this week announced the squad for the Indian travel that will travel to Australia for the BGT. Some notable omissions, along with some very fresh recruits, took the cricketing world by surprise. 



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 Last time India visited Australia, they included the likes of Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, and Shardul Thakur, who have been left out this time despite Pujara being in the best of forms with the bat both in the Ranji Trophy and the County Championship this season. Senior pacer <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mohammad_Shami">Mohammad Shami</a> is not yet available based on his recovery schedule from an injury he faced during the World Cup back in 2023. In his absence, the Indian pace deck will be led by ace bowler Jasprit Bumrah, as he will have the likes of Mohammad Siraj, Akash Deep, and Harshit Rana alongside him, none of whom have played a single red-ball match in the country. Raising questions on the same, former Indian selector for the BCCI back in 2020, Sunil Joshi slammed the selectors with harsh words over ignoring experience for such a vital series en route to the WTC. 



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ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/ind-vs-nz-kane-williamson-was-ruled-out-of-the-third-test-while-the-uncapped-pacer-has-been-drafted-into-indias-squad-for-the-third-wankhede-test/">IND vs NZ: Kane Williamson was ruled out of the third test, while the uncapped pacer has been drafted into India?s squad for the Third Wankhede Test</a> He directly took names of players, as he mentioned the likes of Shardul Thakur and T Natrajan among the players who could have had the experience India needed under such conditions. Alongside Pant, he also had the backs of Pujara and Hanuma Vihari, once an Indian player who had been left out of the squad for a long time now. His faith in the likes of Shardul Thakur, Pujara, and Natrajan?s experience seemed far more compelling than the inclusion of youngsters in Harshit Rana, NK Reddy, and lastly, promising batter Abhimanyu Easwaran.



ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/ind-vs-aus-border-gavaskar-trophy-with-steven-smith-destined-to-be-back-at-no-4-these-players-are-auditioning-for-the-opening-spot-in-the-australian-11/">IND vs AUS Border-Gavaskar Trophy: With Steven Smith destined to be back at No. 4, these players are auditioning for the opening spot in the Australian 11</a>

IND vs AUS Border-Gavaskar Trophy: ?Pujara, Shardul, and Natrajan, gone birds for India selection? Former Indian selector slams BCCI over inexperienced squad selection for the BGT 2024-25

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IND vs AUS: India?s campaign at the Border-Gavaskar Trophy is a highly anticipated contest, especially with the loss faced in the home test series against New Zealand. India would now be in the quest to secure a 4-0 victory in the BGT. The first test which is scheduled for the 22nd of November, will be held in Perth. The Indian skipper Rohit Sharma has not conveyed anything as of now, while Rohit revealed that he is unsure of continuing in the initial one or two BGT games owing to personal reasons. Instead of the skipper, promising Indian opener <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abhimanyu_Easwaran">Abhimanyu Easwaran</a> has been added as an optional opener. However, great Indian cricketer, Sunil Gavaskar has shed light that in case Rohit Sharma misses out on the first test, Bumrah who has been seen as his deputy should step in as the skipper not only for the First test but the entire series. 



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 Detailed analysis says, that the new skipper would be under extreme scrutiny and pressure ahead of the first test, especially with the players down on morale due to their loss in the home series. Keeping Bumrah a skipper for all five matches would give him his dependency back. ?I have been reading that Rohit Sharma might not play the first two Tests of the Australia series. I feel that, in that case, the selection committee should appoint Jasprit Bumrah the captain of the side for the entire Australia tour, and tell Rohit Sharma that you will participate as a player in this series. For the first Test match, Rohit Sharma has to be there,? he added.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Gavaskar?s blunt remark on India can?t beat Australia 4-0 in the BGT </h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/11/Sunil-Gavaskar-New-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-149252" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Sunil Gavaskar doubts India's chances to secure 4-0 victory at the BGT (Image Credit: Crictoday)</figcaption></figure>



India who are in need of securing a 4-0 victory in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy, to fancy their chances properly into the World Test Championship. Gavaskar feels that the visitors won?t be able to advance comfortably with such results. However, the players should still focus on beating the Aussies and creating a unique record in the history of the BGT. ?No, I don?t. I actually don?t. India cannot beat Australia 4-0 in the Test series. If they do that, I would be over the moon if they do that. But 4-0. India can win 3-1, 4-0 is, don?t talk about the World Test Championship final. Now just focus on trying to win the series in Australia. Never mind whether you win 1-0, 2-0, 3-0, 3-1, 2-1. But go and win. Because that is how all of us Indian cricket fans are going to be back to feeling good again,? Gavaskar concluded.



ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/ind-vs-aus-border-gavaskar-trophy-pujara-shardul-and-natrajan-gone-birds-for-india-selection-former-indian-selector-slams-bcci-over-inexperienced-squad-selection-for-the-bgt-2024/">IND vs AUS Border-Gavaskar Trophy: ?Pujara, Shardul, and Natrajan, gone birds for India selection? Former Indian selector slams BCCI over inexperienced squad selection for the BGT 2024-25</a>

IND vs AUS: Former Indian great backs veteran pacer as India Test Captain for the entire Border-Gavaskar Trophy replacing Rohit Sharma seeking initial absence|

IND vs AUS: Former Indian great backs veteran pacer as India Test Captain for the entire Border-Gavaskar Trophy replacing Rohit Sharma seeking initial absence

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IND vs AUS: India suffered a humiliating whitewash in the home Test series against New Zealand by a 3-0 margin. It marked India?s first Test series defeat at home since 2012 and the first whitewash in a home Test series since they started playing Test cricket.



This was much down to the Indian batters? struggles while playing spin on spin-friendly pitches. Ajaz Patel, <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mitchell_Santner">Mitchell Santner</a> and Glenn Phillips wreaked havoc on the Indian batters and they failed to get going. India has really struggled to play spin on spin-friendly pitches in both ODI and Test cricket. Former World Cup-winning captain, Ricky Ponting, has blamed the IPL for Indian batters? inability to play spin.



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?Maybe it?s the IPL or how much IPL cricket they?re playing that the younger players are learning the game that way rather than the way that players did 15 or 20 years ago,? said Ricky Ponting.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Ricky Ponting was shocked to see India?s 3-0 loss against New Zealand</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/11/Ricky-Ponting-New-1024x576.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-149367" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Ponting was left startled by India's 3-0 loss to New Zealand (Image Credit: NDTV Sports) </figcaption></figure>



Ponting also added that the series result came as a shock for him given India?s dominance at home and the Kiwis playing without their main batter in Kane Williamson. He highlighted India?s vulnerability while playing spin on helpful tracks and stated that the modern Indian batters don?t have the skill of negative quality spin bowling as the earlier batters used to have.



Ponting also pointed out that the Indian batters are playing on good wickets on pace-friendly wickets in domestic cricket and that has really developed their pacers. However, the one downside is that it has really deteriorated the spin-playing abilities of the current Indian batters.



Team India lost the first match of the series by eight wickets at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, then they suffered a 113-run defeat in Pune and finally a 25-run defeat at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. The batting averages of the Indian batters have really gone down in Test cricket due to their inability to play spin on home soil.



ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/citing-security-reasons-india-denies-travelling-to-pakistan-for-the-upcoming-champions-trophy-matches-are-to-be-shifted-to-dubai/">Citing security reasons, India denies travelling to Pakistan for the upcoming Champions Trophy; matches are to be shifted to Dubai</a>

IND vs AUS: ?Maybe it?s the IPL..?- Ricky Ponting makes another huge claim on Indian batters? struggles against spin||

IND vs AUS: ?Maybe it?s the IPL..?- Ricky Ponting makes another huge claim on Indian batters? struggles against spin

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IND vs AUS: The India vs Australia Border-Gavaskar Trophy is underway and the first match has begun at the Iconic Optus Stadium. This will be the first time India has played red-ball cricket on Aussie soil since their famous BGT victory back at the Gabba in 2021. Indian skipper Rohit Sharma missed out on the First test, owing to the birth of his second child, though reportedly the skipper will be back with the Indian side midway through the First test. Currently, Jasprit Bumrah has been appointed as India?s interim captain for the first test. Having left out the likes of Ravindra Jadeja and Ravi Ashwin, India?s veteran and most experienced spin all-rounders duo for the First test, India has decided to opt with a fairly inexperienced squad. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harshit_Rana">Harshit Rana</a> and all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy made their debut for the Indian side, while Bumrah won the toss and elected to bat first on a track that seemed good to bat on by the Indian management and the skipper. 



<div class="wp-block-rank-math-toc-block" id="rank-math-toc"><nav><ul><li class=""><a href="#starc-strikes-with-the-new-ball">Starc strikes with the New ball</a></li><li class=""><a href="#hazelwoods-bumper-too-tough-for-king-kohli">Hazelwood?s bumper too tough for King Kohli</a></li><li class=""><a href="#kl-rahuls-unfortunate-dismissal">KL Rahul?s unfortunate dismissal</a></li></ul></nav></div>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="starc-strikes-with-the-new-ball">Starc strikes with the New ball</h2>



However, as said earlier by the Head Pitch curator from the Optus Stadium, the pitch will behave friendly for bowlers due to it being kept under covers due to long exposure to overcast conditions. Mitchell Starc who was observed yesterday oozing fire in the nets with his steaming bouncers, struck early as he dismissed opener Jaiswal for a duck in the very third over of the game. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="hazelwoods-bumper-too-tough-for-king-kohli">Hazelwood?s bumper too tough for King Kohli</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/11/Kohli-dismissed-by-Hazelwood-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-149664" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Hazelwood baffles Virat (image Credit: BDCricTime)</figcaption></figure>



Josh Hazelwood next dismissed Devdutt Padikkal for a 23-ball duck in his debut innings, not very pleasant for the young man. Virat Kohli?s weak form continues as he gets dismissed by a quick bouncer bowled by Josh Hazelwood. Hazelwood?s seaming bumper off the short length took the outside edge of the troubled batter who seemed well surprised by the elemental short-length delivery bowled by the lanky pacer. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="kl-rahuls-unfortunate-dismissal">KL Rahul?s unfortunate dismissal</h2>



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KL Rahul was the only Indian batter who seemed to tackle the valiant pace of the Aussies well, as he stood firm with a fighting 26 runs off 71 balls. He was struck in the elbow and chest but kept onto his confidence until he was dismissed off an outside edge off Starc caught by Carey. KL Rahul believed the same time the ball passed off his outside edge he hit the pads with the inner edge which made the sound that seemed conclusive of him being given out. Rishabh Pant, the last BGT?s hero and Dhruv Jurel are now on the crease and will advance with the proceedings post Lunch.



ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/5-players-who-can-stir-up-a-bidding-contest-between-rcb-and-pbks-two-teams-with-the-highest-purse-in-the-ipl-2025-mega-auction/">5 players who can stir up a bidding contest between RCB and PBKS; two teams with the highest purse in the IPL 2025 mega-auction </a>

IND vs AUS: India struggling early on Day 1 at Perth; Bumrah?s assessment has gone wrong India is 51/4 at Lunch|

IND vs AUS: India struggling early on Day 1 at Perth; Bumrah?s assessment has gone wrong India is 51/4 at Lunch

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Pakistan National Cricket Team put hard yards in their preparations for the game against India in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy.

IND vs PAK: Pakistan ordered to win at any cost against India in 2025 ICC Champions Trophy

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Babar Azam, as per the reports, is down with viral just like India's Rishabh Pant.

Babar Azam ruled out of India game in 2025 ICC Champions Trophy? Batter suffers...

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India and Pakistan's fierce ICC rivalry continues, with India dominating overall but Pakistan excelling in the Champions Trophy. Shubman Gill’s record-breaking form adds excitement to this high-stakes clash.

IND vs PAK Dream11 Prediction, Dream11 Teams, Hot Picks and Tips for Grand League Teams | ICC Champions Trophy 2025

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Josh Inglis's firey TON sails Australia to a winning start at the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Here is the updated ICC Champions Trophy 2025 points table along with match summary and other details.

Josh Inglis Powers Australia to a WINNING Start Against England | Check Updated Points table of ICC Champions Trophy 2025

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The stage is set for the clash between the two border-sharing nations India and Pakistan at Dubai International Stadium! Take a look at the playing Conditions, Stats and Team News for the iconic face-off.

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