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>
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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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IND vs AUS 4th Test: Day 1 of the Boxing Day Test between Australia and India at the Melbourne Cricket Stadium has ended. The hosts won the toss and elected to bat first. The Australian top order made the decision right, as all four top players scored a fifty each. Australia were looking to get to a big score at 237/3 when India pulled things back with some wickets.
Jasprit Bumrah once again was the pick of the bowlers, who took 3/75, while Akashdeep, Ravindra Jadeja, and Washington Sundar took one wicket each. Steve Smith and Pat Cummins (8*) are unbeaten at the stumps. Smith is looking good for another century as he has scored 68 not out from 111 balls.
It won't be wrong to say that the first day belongs to the hosts. It started with some positive batting from the 19-year-old debutant Sam Konstas. He slammed a debut fifty. He made 60 off 65 balls, with six fours and two sixes, and took on Bumrah. That's when there was an ugly altercation captured between him and former Indian captain Virat Kohli on the field.
<h2>IND vs AUS 4th Test: Virat Kohli fined 20 percent of his match fee for his physical altercation with Sam Konstas at MCG</h2>
The former Indian captain collided with Konstas in the middle, which saw the two engaging in a heated exchange at the pitch. Usman Khawaja had to intervene, putting his hands on the shoulders of Virat with a smile and separating the two. Notably, inappropriate physical contact with a player, umpire, player personnel, or match referee comes under Law 2.12.
As a result, Virat Kohli has been fined for his action on the field. The former captain has admitted his action and has been punished with 20 percent of his match fee. Some reports even claimed that Virat might have to suffer a ban, but he ended with a match fee deduction.
For the visitors, who are already struggling, this is a blow, but they would be happy that there is no ban for Virat. Speaking of the game, Australia finished the day with 311/6. Usman Khawaja (57) and Marnus Labuschagne (72) also made half-centuries. Travis Head was bowled for a duck by Bumrah.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/no-rohit-or-virat-harsha-bhogle-reveals-test-team-of-the-year-picks-this-indian-star-as-captain/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">No Rohit or Virat; Harsha Bhogle reveals Test Team of the Year; picks this Indian star as captain</a>

Virat Kohli and Sam Konstas were involved in a heated exchange on the field on Day 1 of the fourth Test at the MCG.

Big Blow for India: Virat Kohli suffered punishment for his physical altercation with Australia debutant Sam Konstas at the MCG

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In the currently ongoing fourth Test-Match of the 2024-25 Border Gavaskar Trophy between Australia and India in Melbourne, elite Indian batter Virat Kohli collided with 19-year-old Australian debutant Sam Konstas. A video of this incident is going viral on social media platforms. 
A heated argument took place between the two players on the field and the umpires were forced to intervene and cool down the situation. But the question which arises is, will the ICC suspend Kohli from participating in the final Border-Gavaskar Trophy match? In this article, we will be taking a look at the ICC rule under which the former Indian skipper can be proven guilty. 
<h2>What exactly happened on the field in Melbourne? </h2>
First of all, let's know what exactly happened on the field. Indian vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah was bowling the 11th over of the match and debutant Sam Konstas was hitting big shots constantly off the bowling of Mohammed Siraj and even Bumrah himself. 
Watch the full video here- <a href="https://x.com/mufaddal_vohra/status/1872075886947881321" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Virat Kohli vs Sam Konstas</a>
In such a situation, during the 11th over while cleaning the ball, Kohli was moving towards Konstas and at that point of time, both of them collided with each other as the former Indian skipper clashed his shoulder with the youngster. On watching the video carefully, it can be seen that Virat did the shoulder clash on purpose with the 19-year-old.
<h2>What do the rules of ICC say? </h2>
According to the rulebook of the ICC, article 2.1 states that a player can be punished if he gets involved in inappropriate physical-contact with a opposition player, support staff of the players, match-referee, umpires or any other person on the Cricket field. 
Such incidents have happened before in the past and considering the history of such incidents, Virat will not be getting harsh punishment like a one-match suspension or ban. However, the match-referee can definitely give the 35-year-old a demerit point and a deduction in his match-fee as a punishment. 
Do Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/big-blow-for-india-virat-kohli-suffered-punishment-for-his-physical-altercation-with-australia-debutant-sam-konstas-at-the-mcg/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Big Blow for India: Virat Kohli suffered punishment for his physical altercation with Australia debutant Sam Konstas at the MCG</a>

<a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/big-blow-for-india-virat-kohli-suffered-punishment-for-his-physical-altercation-with-australia-debutant-sam-konstas-at-the-mcg/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">. </a>

Sam Konstas (L) of Australia and Virat Kohli (R) of Indian exchanging words with each other in the Boxing-Day Test-Match in Melbourne as Ravindra Jadeja of India (C) watches | Image: Getty Images

In ongoing Boxing-Day Test between Australia and India, a heated moment took place on the field as experienced Indian player Virat Kohli got involved in a shoulder clash with 19-year-old Australian debutant Sam Konstas. We will take a look at whether ICC can suspend Kohli or not for this incident.

Will ICC suspend Virat Kohli from playing in the final BGT Test match for clashing with Sam Konstas in Melbourne?

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Day 1 of the Boxing Day Test between India and Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground was full of action. The day ended with Australia on top, but it was Virat Kohli and the debutant who gathered the headlines. All Australian and Indian media are talking about the incident that happened during the morning session.
It was Virat Kohli who bumped into Sam Konstas, and both were seen exchanging words on the field. Usman Khawaja and the umpires had to intervene to settle the matter. But both players were looking at each other. That physical altercation also saw Virat getting punished. He was fined 20 percent of his match fee and was given one demerit point.
<h2>What is Virat Kohli's salary, and how much will he get after a 20 percent deduction?</h2>
The cricket world is talking about the incident, and everyone has their opinion. Virat admitted and accepted his action. As a result, he was fined 20 percent of his match fee. But how much will be deducted from his salary? What will he get after deduction? We will talk about it here.
Notably, Virat Kohli is a top-grade Indian cricketer who falls in the A category. However, the grade doesn't decide the match fee. For an Indian cricketer, playing a test match, the fee is INR 15 lakhs. That means Virat will earn INR 15 lac from the ongoing test as the match fee.
As he has been fined 20 percent of the match fee, that means INR 3 lakh will be deducted from his salary as a penalty. After deduction, he will be getting INR 12 lacs. But as per the new incentive schemes for the Indian players by the BCCI, all players who play 75 percent of the test matches a year will get an additional INR 30 lacs per match as an incentive.
But Virat missed the five-match home test series against England earlier this year. He has featured in ten games out of 15 India played in 2024. That means he won't feature in that 75-percent category and won't get added INR 30 lac schemes. Speaking of the game, Australia finished the day at 311/6. Their top four all made half-centuries. For India, Jasprit Bumrah took three wickets.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/big-blow-for-india-virat-kohli-suffered-punishment-for-his-physical-altercation-with-australia-debutant-sam-konstas-at-the-mcg/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Big Blow for India: Virat Kohli suffered punishment for his physical altercation with Australia debutant Sam Konstas at the MCG</a>

Virat Kohli was fined 20 percent of his match fee after his physical altercation with the Australian debutant Sam Konstas at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

How much is Virat Kohli's match fee? What will he get after a 20 percent penalty at the MCG?

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Australia batter Sam Konstas opened up about his fight with Virat Kohli during Day 1 of the ongoing fourth Test against India, which is taking place at the Melbourne Cricket Ground in Melbourne. He said that he was doing his gloves and the senior batter accidentally bumped him. 
The Boxing Day Test between India and Australia started on a high note as day one of the game witnessed an enthralling day of cricket. Not only this, the tensions were high as well as Indian players had their go at the Australian players, and it lifted the crowds. 
One of the highlights of Day 1 came between Virat Kohli and Sam Konstas. The two were engaged in a heated argument in the first session of the day. It was then the Australian debutant started taking attacks on the Indian bowlers and slammed them all over the park. 
Sam Konstas, in particular, slammed Jasprit Bumrah all over the park. He played unorthodox shots and reversed-scooped him for six. While the battle between pacers and batter was going high, Virat Kohli was having a go at a batter behind the stumps. 
But the tensions flared up after the 10th over of the innings. After the over ended, Virat Kohli and Sam Konstas bumped shoulders while moving across the pitch between overs. Immediately after that, they shared a heated exchange of words before Usman Khawaja and umpire Michael Gough interrupted to separate the batters. 
<h2>"I was just doing my gloves. I think he accidentally bumped me - Sam Konstas on fight with Virat Kohli</h2>
This became a massive headline, but Australia batter Sam Konstas has now opened up about the entire incident. He said that Virat Kohli accidentally bumped him but mentioned that he, too, was trying to get into the contest. 
Sam Konstas revealed that he was trying to bring out the best version of himself. He feels that things getting heated up brought the best out of him, and he wants to carry on the confidence in the second innings. Speaking to reporters, he explained: 
"I was just doing my gloves. I think he accidentally bumped me. I think that's just cricket, just the tension. For me, I was just trying to get into the contest. 
"I was just trying to bring the best version of myself against whoever I was facing. It got heated at times, but that's good for me. I feel it brings the best out of me. Hopefully, it carries on in the next innings.". 
Konstas was the shining light for Australia on Day 1. The batter played aggressively and scored 60 runs off 65 balls, which ensured Australia got off to a brutal start with the bat.
Do Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/big-blow-for-india-virat-kohli-suffered-punishment-for-his-physical-altercation-with-australia-debutant-sam-konstas-at-the-mcg/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Big Blow for India: Virat Kohli suffered punishment for his physical altercation with Australia debutant Sam Konstas at the MCG</a>

Australia batter Sam Konstas opened up about his fight with Virat Kohli during Day 1 of the ongoing fourth Test against India.

"It carries on in the next innings" - Sam Konstas breaks silence on fight with Virat Kohli

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IND vs AUS DAY 2: Australia continued from their strong overnight score of 311/6 and completely dominated India in the first session of the day. Australia crushed India’s bowling, scoring 474 with Smith’s brilliant 140. India now faces a tough challenge on a tricky pitch.
Here’s how the action unfolded on Day 2:
<h2>Session 1: Australia Tightens the Grip</h2>
It was all about Australia in the morning session. In just 27 overs, they smashed 143 runs and lost only one wicket. India’s bowlers looked clueless as the Aussies made merry. Akash Deep, who shone yesterday, had a rough time today, giving away runs, while Jasprit Bumrah kept toiling but couldn’t find the breakthrough early on.
Steve Smith, looking every bit like the run-machine he is, played with ease and elegance. He kept the scoreboard ticking with clever singles and sharp boundaries, leaving no scoring chance behind. Meanwhile, Pat Cummins supported him brilliantly, finding the ropes regularly and frustrating the Indian bowlers.
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The big moment came when Smith brought up his fifth Test century at the iconic MCG. The 112-run partnership between Smith and Cummins left India reeling. Cummins eventually fell to Ravindra Jadeja, trying to attack, but by then, the damage was done. India’s bowlers seemed tired and out of ideas, with their short-ball strategy failing on a pitch that wasn’t offering much pace or bounce.
<h2>Session 2: India Strikes Back, But Australia Posts a Mammoth Total</h2>
After lunch, India finally had something to cheer about. Ravindra Jadeja struck early, dismissing Mitchell Starc, and the very next ball saw the end of the brilliant Steve Smith, who was trapped on 140. It was a knock that reminded everyone why Smith is considered one of the best in the world—two centuries in two matches, first in Brisbane and now here at the MCG.
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Jasprit Bumrah then wrapped things up, dismissing Nathan Lyon, but not before Lyon and Scott Boland added 19 valuable runs for the last wicket. Australia finished their innings with a massive 474 runs on the board.
<h2>Australia’s Commanding Total</h2>
474 runs is a huge score on this pitch. With the surface offering something for both pacers and spinners, it’s going to be a big test for the Indian batters.
The foundation of this innings was laid by debutant Sam Konstas’ brilliant knock on Day 1, followed by good and moving innings from Manus, Khwaja, Carey, and not to mention a masterclass from Steve Smith today. His knock had shades of his golden form from 2019, leaving the Indian bowlers scratching their heads.
India’s bowling attack had very few bright spots. Bumrah was once again the standout, fighting hard to contain the Aussie batters. Jadeja kept things steady, but Akash Deep struggled to replicate his heroics from yesterday.
Can India’s batters rise to the occasion and fight back, or will this Australian total prove too much to handle? The challenge is massive, and the MCG is set for another gripping chapter in this Test series!

Australia dominated on Day 2, piling up 474 runs with Steve Smith’s masterful century. India’s bowlers struggled, while brief resistance from Bumrah and Jadeja couldn’t stop the Aussie charge on a challenging pitch.

Steve Smith’s century and Australia’s 474-run total leave India facing an uphill battle on a pitch favoring both spinners and pacers.

IND vs AUS: Australia managed to put up a huge 474 First Innings score

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The time is ticking for India captain Rohit Sharma in Test cricket. As per the reports in PTI, it is learned that the opening batter is all set to play his last match in red-ball cricket at the Sydney Cricket Ground, which will be the last match of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25, provided few conditions. 
Chairman of Selectors Ajit Agarkar is in Melbourne, and he will soon be having a conversation with Rohit Sharma related to his future in Tests. As per the reports, if India fails to reach the final of the series, then the last match of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 will be the last match for India's captain.
This comes after Rohit Sharma's struggles in the Test cricket of last. In the last 8 games, the opening batter has scored just 155 runs at an average of 11.07 and his struggles are visible in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25, where he has managed just 22 runs from 5 innings. 
After playing two games in the middle order, Rohit Sharma moved back to the top order in the ongoing Melbourne Test. However, the move didn't pay off, as the skipper was back in the hut after facing just 5 balls. He attempted a half-hearted pull shot and was caught by Scott Boland with ease. 
<h2> Rohit Sharma felt uncomfortable while batting in the middle order in the second and third Test matches</h2>
The reports also added that Rohit Sharma felt uncomfortable while batting in the middle order in the second and third Test matches. However, to accommodate him back as an opener, Shubman Gill was dropped from the team for the ongoing game as Washington Sundar replaced him as an all-rounder. 
With their place for the ICC World Test Championship very far away, it is fair to say Rohit Sharma won't be playing any more Tests after the ongoing game. To make it into the final, India will have to win both the remaining games. However, with the way things are going in the ongoing match, Australia look like clear favourites. 
There also have been some other sections of reports that have claimed that a big announcement will be around the corner after the Melbourne Test concludes. It is learned that there will be some big news coming from Indian cricket, especially if the team loses the game. 
If the reports related to Rohit Sharma's retirement after the Sydney Test are true, it's safe to say that the batter will have a great opportunity to turn things around in the remaining three innings. If he sets the stage on fire in three innings, chances are he will continue leading the team.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/how-much-is-virat-kohli-s-match-fee-what-will-he-get-after-a-20-percent-penalty-at-the-mcg-/#google_vignette">How much is Virat Kohli's match fee? What will he get after a 20 percent penalty at the MCG?</a>

As per the reports in PTI, it is learned that Rohit Sharma is all set to play his last match in red-ball cricket at the Sydney Cricket Ground

Rohit Sharma to retire after Sydney Test, Ajit Agarkar set to talk to captain about his future

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It's really hard to imagine Pakistan's test team without the presence of Shaheen Shah Afridi and it's a situation which is really hard to occur. However, a shocking call was taken by the National Team's selectors and despite being in excellent form with the ball, elite Pakistani seamer was not considered for selection in Pakistan's two-match Test-Series verus the South Africans.
Afridi delivered am exceptional performance in the One Day International series versus the same opposition, dismissing the highest number of batters (7) and his role with the ball was crucial in his team's success. 
But despite all this, the pacer wasn't even considered for selection for the two-match Test-Series versus the Proteas. According to some news reports, prior to the squad-announcement of the Shaheens, a selector reportedly asked the 24-year-old to take part in a practice Four-day match before the commencement of the Test-Series. 
Due to some personal reasons, Shaheen wasn't able to comply with the instructions of the Pakistani selectors. This was comprehended as "disobedience" by the selectors which led to his eventual exclusion from the Test team. Notably, a similar instruction was given to former skipper Babar Azam too, who also didn't comply with the instructions but was still included in the Test team.
According to some inside sources of Pakistani Men's National Cricket Team, it's believed that the dominating behavior of a certain selector has caused a feeling of dissatisfaction among the national team players. The selector, who recently announced his retirement from Cricket, reportedly maintains a dominating attitude even towards former players. It's believed that the selector is none other than Aleem Dar who was drafted in the selection committee just a few months back. 
According to some close sources of Shaheen, the pacer still has the passion in him to represent Pakistan in the longest format of the game and he was pretty disappointed by the selectors' decision to exclude him from the Test Team for the South Africa series. 
Post the conclusion of the One-Day International series, the 24-year-old even gave the offer to stay in South Africa for the upcoming Test-Series if the national team selectora felt the need to include him in the squad, but no initiative was taken to select him. 
The Shan Masood-led team desperately felt the absence of a left-handed pacer and this was pretty evident in the Centurion Test-match versus the Proteas. Another left-arm seamer Mir Hamza, who is known for his speed and variations, was not considered for selection too. 
Talking about Shaheen Shah Afridi again, the reason for not selecting him was given as workload management but shockingly, he was allowed to participate in the upcoming edition of the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL). He is a part of the team of Fortune Barishal and the 24-year-old is anticipated to play in five contests for the franchise.
Do Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/watch-irfan-pathan-and-sanjay-manjrekar-get-involved-in-a-heated-argument-over-the-run-out-of-yashasvi-jaiswal-on-live-tv/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Watch:Irfan Pathan and Sanjay Manjrekar get involved in a heated argument over the run out of Yashasvi Jaiswal on live TV</a>

Shaheen Shah Afridi of Pakistan celebrates the dismissal of Australia's Mitchell Starc | Image: AFP

Shaheen Shah Afridi was shockingly not considered for selection in Pakistan's Test Team for the South Africa series and Aleem Dar is reportedly considered the main reason behind his exclusion from the team.

Shaheen Afridi neglected the orders of the selectors and this led to his exclusion from the Test Team

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Jasprit Bumrah bowled the worst spell of his career in the Tests during the fourth Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. The match between the teams is taking place at the Melbourne Cricket Ground in Melbourne. 
Jasprit Bumrah was taken for a lot of runs in the Tests against Australia. The fast bowler returned with the figures of 4/99 in the 28.4 overs. This saw him achieving a wanted record to his name as, for the first time, he gave away more than 90 runs in an innings in his career in Tests. 
Jasprit Bumrah also was hit for four sixes during his spell. It was for the first time in 4562 deliveries that six was hit against him. Sam Konstas slammed the fast bowler for two sixes, while Steve Smith and Mitchell Starc also hit one six each against the premier fast bowler. 
This was only the second time that more than one six in an innings (after England's first innings in 2018 at the Oval) was hit against the fast bowler. This was the first time three or more sixes were hit against the fast bowler. 
<h2>Jasprit Bumrah has been the leading wicket-taker in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25</h2>
Jasprit Bumrah has been the leading wicket-taker in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. The fast bowler has looked a class apart in the series. He picked fifer in Perth and followed it up with the four-fer in Adelaide. The pacer picked 6-fer wickets in Gabba and then four-fer in Melbourne.
Jasprit Bumrah, in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25, has taken 25 wickets at an average of 13.12 with five-wicket hauls. With the way he is going, he is expected to take more wickets in the series and it won't be a surprise if he goes past 35-mark in the series. 
Coming to the match, Australia had another dominating outing in the ongoing fourth Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25, underway at the Melbourne Cricket Ground in Melbourne. 
They came up with a terrific effort with bat and ball on Day two to put India under pressure. The hosts ended their first innings on 474 and then took five Indian wickets. At stumps, India was 165 for five and is still behind 310 runs.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/gautam-gambhir-and-rohit-sharma-ordered-to-drop-mohammed-siraj-following-his-worst-performance-/">Gautam Gambhir and Rohit Sharma ordered to drop Mohammed Siraj following his worst performance</a>

Jasprit Bumrah bowled the worst spell of his career in the Tests during the fourth Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25

Shocking! Jasprit Bumrah bowls the worst spell of his career and achieves two unwanted feats

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Former Indian skipper Sunil Gavaskar has ordered skipper Rohit Sharma and head coach Gautam Gambhir to drop Mohammed Siraj for the next game of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. He said that the team should include Harshit Rana and Prasidh Krishna in the team at Sydney. 
Mohammed Siraj has been one of the poor performers for India in the ongoing series against Australia. The fast bowler has failed to provide support to Jasprit Bumrah in the ongoing series, which has been the main reason behind the team's struggles with the ball. 
With Mohammed Siraj failing to take wickets and restrict run flow, all the burden has come on Jasprit Bumrah. The fast bowler has been single-handedly carrying the bowling lineup of the team and is the leading wicket-taker in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 with 25 wickets to his name. 
Mohammed Siraj has also leaked a lot of runs and his poor effort is the reason why Australia has piled up over 400 runs in the last two games. In the Melbourne Test, he failed to take a single wicket and gave away 122 runs in the 23 overs that he bowled. 
Sunil Gavaskar feels that Mohammed Siraj needs a break and team management needs to tell him that they are dropping him on the basis of his poor performances. While speaking to Star Sports, he explained: 
"I think Siraj, perhaps, needs a little bit of a break. In the sense that, I am not saying a break, he needs to be told that he is left out of the team for non-performance. There has to be a situation where you can’t beat around the bush." 
<h2>If you want to make two changes. Prasidh Krishna and Harshit Rana to support Jasprit Bumrah - Sunil Gavaskar wants Mohammed Siraj to be dropped </h2>
Sunil Gavaskar mentioned that Gautam Gambhir and Rohit Sharma need to directly say to Mohammed Siraj they are dropping him. The batting great also batted for the inclusion of Prasidh Krishna and Harshit Rana. He explained: 
"But I think Siraj needs to be told ‘look, you are not bowling as well as we expected you to on pitches that have been helpful’. That is something that needs to be told. If you want to make two changes. Prasidh Krishna and Harshit Rana to support Jasprit Bumrah. By all means, do that," he concluded.
Do Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/yashasvi-jaiswal-went-past-virat-kohli-to-join-sachin-tendulkar-in-an-elite-list-of-indians-with-his-glorious-82-at-mcg/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Yashasvi Jaiswal went past Virat Kohli to join Sachin Tendulkar in an elite list of Indians with his glorious 82 at MCG</a>

Former Indian skipper Sunil Gavaskar has ordered skipper Rohit Sharma and head coach Gautam Gambhir to drop Mohammed Siraj for the next game of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy

Gautam Gambhir and Rohit Sharma ordered to drop Mohammed Siraj following his worst performance

gautam-gambhir-and-rohit-sharma-ordered-to-drop-mohammed-siraj-following-his-worst-performance-

In the 2nd day of the Melbourne Boxing-Day Test-match of the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy series, the Indian Cricket Team has hit the axe on their own feet. In reply to Australia's first inning score of 474 runs, the Indian batters helped their team reach the score of 153-2 at one point and they were on course of reaching a big score in their first-inning. 
However, in the 41st over, young Indian opening batter Yashasvi Jaiswal got run out after playing a good knock of 86 runs. Lack of co-ordination with Virat Kohli on the other end meant he youngster missed out on the opportunity to slam his 2nd ton versus the Aussies in the ongoing BGT series. On one hand, the threat of a follow on being enforeced is looming over the Indian Team while on the other hand, the run out of Jaiswal sparked a heated argument between Cricket experts Irfan Pathan and Sanjay Manjrekar and the video of the same has gone viral on social media platforms. 
The Men in Blue ended the 2nd day of the Melbourne test at the score of 164 runs for the loss of five wickets and they are still trailing the Kangaroos by 310 runs. Post the conclusion of the 2nd day, Sanjay Manjrekar and Irfan Pathan were discussing the run out of Jaiswal in the post match show of Star Sports. Manjrekar on one hand was seen criticising Kohli while the opinions of Irfan were completely opposite.
Watch the full video <a href="https://x.com/Musafirr_hu_yar/status/1872543107272806770?t=08VDV_x1Pzgs82fX6qIX2g&amp;s=19">here</a>
<h2>Manjrekar had some harsh words to say about Kohli</h2>
First, Sanjay Manjrekar put forward his perspective and said, 
<blockquote>
"The ball was coming at a slower speed, I don't think that Virat would have got run-out in that situation. It was the call of Jaiswal and this run was probably not a free one but Jaiswal was the one who was running at the danger-end not Virat. It was his (Virat's) childish mistake that he looked back and decided that it was not a run. If Yashasvi's judgement was wrong then he would have got dismissed on the non-striker's end."

</blockquote>
<h2>Irfan Pathan hit back at the comments of Manjrekar</h2>
Initiating a counter attack on the views of his fellow commentator, Irfan said, 
<blockquote>
"He (Kohli) was probably not confident about taking that run because the ball went to fielder in a quick manner. Kohli, who was standing at the non-striker's end also has the right to deny a run call if he feels he's at the risk of getting run-out."

After this, Manjrekar said, "If you don't want to let me talk, then it's okay.
</blockquote>
Do Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/steve-smith-goes-past-sachin-tendulkar-and-kohli-sets-the-record-for-the-most-number-of-centuries-in-border-gavaskar-trophy/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Steve Smith goes past Sachin Tendulkar and Kohli, sets the record for the most number of centuries in Border-Gavaskar Trophy</a>

Irfan Pathan (L) and Sanjay Manjrekar (C) in the post match show of Star Sports alongside Jatin Sapru (R) | Image: X (Cricket NDTV)

Cricket Experts Irfan Pathan and Sanjay Manjrekar got involved in a heated exchange with each other on live television following the run out of Yashasvi Jaiswal

Watch:Irfan Pathan and Sanjay Manjrekar get involved in a heated argument over the run out of Yashasvi Jaiswal on live TV

watch-irfan-pathan-and-sanjay-manjrekar-get-involved-in-a-heated-argument-over-the-run-out-of-yashasvi-jaiswal-on-live-tv

India batter Virat Kohli has been the centre of attraction in the ongoing fourth Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 against Australia. The match between the teams is taking place at the Melbourne Cricket Ground in Melbourne. 
Virat Kohli has become the target of Australian media ever since India has reached the Melbourne. He was involved in a fight with Australian media and then, during the ongoing match, was also seen having a heated exchange with young opener Sam Konstas. 
Virat Kohli and Sam Konstas bumped shoulders while moving across the pitch between over, and after that, were seen having a heated argument. This saw Batter facing a lot of criticism for having a go at a young player who was making his debut for Australia. 
The Australian media, along with various Australian experts and former cricketers, went hard at Virat Kohli. Not only this, even the crowd was against the senior India batter as he got boos when the premier batter walked out to bat on the Day Two of the ongoing Test. 
<h2>Virat Kohli looked very solid at the crease and it seemed that he would reply to all the critics in style</h2>
Virat Kohli looked very solid at the crease and it seemed that he would reply to all the critics in style and with his bat. He looked in great touch as he played some crisp shots in his innings and with the way he was going, it was expected that he would get a big score.
Virat Kohli was highly cautious against the balls outside off early on his innings and, along with Yashasvi Jaiswal, added over 100 runs partnership. But the demons of the outside off stump came to haunt him again as he was back in the hut after a valuable start. 
Virat Kohli was removed by Scott Boland as he poked at the ball outside off and was caught by Alex Carey behind the stumps. The premier Indian batter was back in the hut after 36 runs, but what caught the attention of many was he fought with the crowd on his way back. 
Do Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/yashasvi-jaiswal-went-past-virat-kohli-to-join-sachin-tendulkar-in-an-elite-list-of-indians-with-his-glorious-82-at-mcg/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Yashasvi Jaiswal went past Virat Kohli to join Sachin Tendulkar in an elite list of Indians with his glorious 82 at MCG</a>
As he was going inside the dressing room, some of the fans near the entrance told him something. The batter, however, came up back and shared some words with the fans before going back in extreme anger. You can see the video below:

India batter Virat Kohli has been the centre of attraction in the ongoing fourth Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 against Australia

Watch: 'Angry' Virat Kohli fights with fans at MCG after getting out for 36 runs

watch-angry-virat-kohli-fights-with-fans-at-mcg-after-getting-out-for-36-runs-

In what proves to be a massive and a remarkable achievement, Australian Cricket Team's elite batsman Steven Smith has broken the legendary Sachin Tendulkar's prestigious record following his splendid hundred in the ongoing 4th test-match of the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Batting at the fourth spot in the batting-order, the former Aussie skipper slammed an incredible ton, helping the Kangaroos gain the upper-hand in the do-or-die encounter at the iconic stadium. 
The 35-year-old who failed to meet the expectations of the Australian fans in the Adelaide and Perth Test-Matches, rediscovered his magic with the bat with the help of a wonderful ton in the Gabba Test-match. He didn't let his good momentum go away, slamming yet another important century and helped the Kangaroos post a huge first inning score in the Melbourne Boxing-Day Test-match. In this process, the former Australian skipper also broken Tendulkar's record of slamming the highest number of centuries in the history of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series.
<h3>List of batters to have slammed the highest number of centuries in the history of Border-Gavaskar Trophy Series</h3>
<table id="table-m561o8g4" border="1" style="width: 100.732%; height: 112px;">
<tbody>
<tr id="row0" style="height: 10px;">
<th id="col0" style="width: 46.9242%; height: 10px;">Batter</th>
<th id="col1" style="width: 23.0329%; height: 10px;">Innings</th>
<th id="col2" style="width: 30.0429%; height: 10px;">Hundreds</th>
</tr>
<tr id="row1" style="height: 20px;">
<td id="col0" style="width: 46.9242%; height: 20px; text-align: center;">Steve Smith</td>
<td id="col1" style="width: 23.0329%; height: 20px; text-align: center;">41</td>
<td id="col2" style="width: 30.0429%; height: 20px; text-align: center;">10</td>
</tr>
<tr id="row2" style="height: 20px;">
<td id="col0" style="width: 46.9242%; height: 20px; text-align: center;">Sachin Tendulkar</td>
<td id="col1" style="width: 23.0329%; height: 20px; text-align: center;">65</td>
<td id="col2" style="width: 30.0429%; height: 20px; text-align: center;">9</td>
</tr>
<tr id="row3" style="height: 20px;">
<td id="col0" style="width: 46.9242%; height: 20px; text-align: center;">Virat Kohli</td>
<td id="col1" style="width: 23.0329%; height: 20px; text-align: center;">47</td>
<td id="col2" style="width: 30.0429%; height: 20px; text-align: center;">9</td>
</tr>
<tr id="row4" style="height: 20px;">
<td id="col0" style="width: 46.9242%; height: 20px; text-align: center;">Ricky Ponting</td>
<td id="col1" style="width: 23.0329%; height: 20px; text-align: center;">51</td>
<td id="col2" style="width: 30.0429%; height: 20px; text-align: center;">8</td>
</tr>
<tr id="row5" style="height: 22px;">
<td id="col0" style="width: 46.9242%; height: 22px; text-align: center;">Michael Clarke</td>
<td id="col1" style="width: 23.0329%; height: 22px; text-align: center;">40</td>
<td id="col2" style="width: 30.0429%; height: 22px; text-align: center;">7</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
Prior to his inning of 140 runs at the MCG, Smith had scored the same number of BGT tons as Kohli &amp; Tendulkar. So, elite Indian batter Virat Kohli also has an opportunity to go past the little master and match Smith if he slams a hundred in the Boxing-Day Test.
<h2>Steve Smith goes past Joe Root with his century in Melbourne</h2>
Records keep flowing from the bat of Elite Australian batter Steve Smith and with the help of 34th Test ton in Melbourne, he has now become the player who has scored the most centuries in the history of Test cricket versus the Indian Team i.e 11 centuries.
Before Smith, this record was in the name of England's Joe Root who has slammed 10 incredible tons versus the Men in Blue. Apart from him, the likes of Ricky Ponting, Vivian Richards and Gary Sobers have also scored 8 centuries each against India.
Also, Smith has now equalled Brian Lara, Sunil Gavaskar, Younus Khan and Mahela Jayawadene in terms of scoring the most centuries in the history of the five-day format. All of these legendary players had scored 34 centuries in Test cricket. This is also Smith's 46th century in his international career.
Do Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/yashasvi-jaiswal-went-past-virat-kohli-to-join-sachin-tendulkar-in-an-elite-list-of-indians-with-his-glorious-82-at-mcg/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Yashasvi Jaiswal went past Virat Kohli to join Sachin Tendulkar in an elite list of Indians with his glorious 82 at MCG</a>

Steven Smith of Australia celebrates scoring his 34 test ton in the Boxing-Day Test-match versus India at the MCG | Image: Getty Images

Steven Smith of Australia has broken multiple records with the help of his 34th Test century in the Boxing-Day Test-match versus Team India

Steve Smith goes past Sachin Tendulkar and Kohli, sets the record for the most number of centuries in Border-Gavaskar Trophy

steve-smith-goes-past-sachin-tendulkar-and-kohli-sets-the-record-for-the-most-number-of-centuries-in-border-gavaskar-trophy

Yashasvi Jaiswal was leading the Indian batting and brought the visitors back into the game. He stitched an important 102-run partnership with Virat Kohli for the third wicket, and Team India were looking good until there was a miscommunication between the two. Jaiswal was looking good for another big score and was going very well.
But on the last ball of the 41st over, he drove a ball to mid-on and was out of the blocks for a run. Virat, who was watching the ball, didn't respond, and Jaiswal got run out. That was the turning point in the Indian batting innings so far.
That run out also must have broken Virat's concentration, and he got out once again trying to poke at the ball outside off stump. Before that, he was leaving it pretty well. Jaiswal scored his ninth test fifty and made 82 runs off 118 balls, with 11 fours and one six. However, before getting out, he achieved a special feat.
<h2>IND vs AUS 4th Test: Yashavi Jaiswal joins Sachin Tendulkar among the Indian players with most Test runs in a calendar year.</h2>
Jaiswal has had a tremendous year with the bat for India. He has scored the most runs for India in tests this year, and overall, he is the second-highest scorer in 2024. Jaiswal has scored 1394 runs in 28 innings at an average of 53.61 with three centuries and 8 half-centuries. He has hit 36 sixes this year.
Earlier, Jaiswal broke the long-standing record of Brendon McCullum for most test sixes in a year. McCullum struck 34 sixes in 2014, and Jaiswal has already hit 36 in 2024. Apart from that, Jaiswal has joined Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag, and Sunil Gavaskar in an elite list of Indian batters with the most test runs in a calendar year.
In his 82-run innings, he went past Rahul Dravid (1357), Gundappa Viswanath (1388), and Virat (1322). Jaiswal has now scored the fifth-most test runs by an Indian in a calendar year. Sachin holds the Indian record with 1562 runs in 2010. Jaiswal still has one more innings in the MCG test, and he needs another 169 runs to break that record.
Speaking of the game, India finished Day 2 at 164/5. They were at 153/2 at one point and then lost three quick wickets for six runs. The visitors are still 111 runs behind to avoid the follow-on. Rishabh Pant (6) and Ravindra Jadeja (4) are at the crease, and India need a special effort from their lower order to do something.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/how-much-is-virat-kohli-s-match-fee-what-will-he-get-after-a-20-percent-penalty-at-the-mcg-/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">How much is Virat Kohli's match fee? What will he get after a 20 percent penalty at the MCG?</a>

Yashasvi Jaiswal was unlucky to get run out after a well-made 82 in the first innings of the ongoing Boxing Day Test match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

Yashasvi Jaiswal went past Virat Kohli to join Sachin Tendulkar in an elite list of Indians with his glorious 82 at MCG

yashasvi-jaiswal-went-past-virat-kohli-to-join-sachin-tendulkar-in-an-elite-list-of-indians-with-his-glorious-82-at-mcg

Jasprit Bumrah once again proved why he is one of the best in the business. Day 1 of the Boxing Day Test between India and Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground saw the Australian batters dominating the Indian bowlers.
The counterattack started when the debutant Sam Konstas took on Bumrah and slammed him for two sixes in an over. They set the tone for the hosts, and they had a great batting display in the first sessions. All four top Australian batters marked a fifty each.
But it was once again Bumrah who brought India into the game. He dismissed dangerous Travis Head and Mitchell Marsh in quick succession, which dented the Australian scoring rate. Bumrah ended the day at 3/75. He once again proved to be the real threat for the hosts.
<h2>IND vs AUS 4th Test: Jasprit Bumrah on verge of reaching 200 wickets in Test cricket on Day 2</h2>
Jasprit Bumrah, with his three wickets, registered a couple of great records. He dismissed Head for a duck and became the first Indian bowler to dismiss the Australian batter for a duck against India. Apart from him, with his three wickets, he also went past Anil Kumble (15) to take the most wickets at the MCG.
Bumrah now has 18 wickets at this iconic venue. But as he steps on the field on Day 2, Bumrah eyes a major record. Notably, Bumrah has 197 wickets now, and he has a chance to complete 200 wickets in the first innings itself. Australia still have four wickets left in the bank, and if the Indian pacer can take three wickets on Day 2, he will become the fastest Indian to reach this milestone.
Currently, Kapil Dev holds the record for the fastest Indian pacer to take 200 wickets in 50 tests. Jasprit Bumrah is currently playing his 44th Test, and he still has the second innings, but he can achieve this feat on Day 2 itself. Overall, Ravichandran Ashwin holds this Indian record in 37 tests.
Meanwhile, India need to make sure that they take the remaining four wickets early on Day 2 and try to bat long. India have dropped Shubman Gill, so they are one batter short. Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, and Nitish Reddy are three all-rounders in the lower middle order who need to take responsibility. Rohit Sharma is likely to open the innings, and KL Rahul will bat at no. 3.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/how-much-is-virat-kohli-s-match-fee-what-will-he-get-after-a-20-percent-penalty-at-the-mcg-/#google_vignette">How much is Virat Kohli's match fee? What will he get after a 20 percent penalty at the MCG?</a>

Jasprit Bumrah took three wickets as Australia finished 311/6 at the stumps on Day 1 of the fourth test at Melbourne Cricket Ground.