"Cricket Should Win": PCB Softens Tone On India-Pak Champions Trophy Row

Backing down from its boycott threat, the Pakistan Cricket Board has told the ICC that it is willing to accept the 'Hybrid' model for hosting next year's Champions Trophy provided the world body allows the same arrangement for events to be held in India till 2031. What was divulged by a PCB source in Karachi was all but confirmed by its chief Mohsin Naqvi in Dubai hours later. The tournament is scheduled to be held in February-March and India have refused to travel to Pakistan citing security concerns. "I don't want to comment too much because that can ruin things. We have given our point of view (to the ICC), the Indians have also given theirs. The effort is to ensure a win-win for all," Naqvi told reporters. "Cricket should win, that's most important but with respect for all. We are going to do what's best for cricket. Whichever formula we go for, it would be on equal terms," he added.

"Pakistan's pride is most important. We have to ensure that cricket wins but Pakistan's pride also remains intact." The latest proposal is a climbdown from the PCB, which had earlier threatened to boycott the tournament if its hosting rights were not granted in full and India's demand for a neutral venue was accepted.

When asked whether Pakistan has agreed to the arrangement now, Naqvi's response was, "Let's see what happens." "My effort is to ensure that there is no one-sided system. It shouldn't be that we travel to India and they don't come to our country. Idea is to settle it once and for all on equal terms." In Karachi, a PCB source said the Board is also demanding a greater share in the annual revenue cycle for agreeing to the model under which India would be playing its share of matches, including the clash against Pakistan, in Dubai.

"The current situation is that PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has said that it will only accept hosting the Champions Trophy on a hybrid model if the board agrees that in future all ICC events will be on same system with Pakistan not going to India to play matches," the source told PTI.

"Pakistan also wants the ICC board to increase its financial cycle share of revenues from 5.75 percent and Naqvi is insistent on this but he has not sought any additional hosting fees," he added.

Till 2031, India are due to host three ICC men's events -- the 2026 T20 World Cup jointly with Sri Lanka, the 2029 Champions Trophy and the 2031 ODI World Cup jointly with Bangladesh.

Given that Bangladesh and Sri Lanka are co-hosts for two major events, Pakistan would not be compelled to travel to India if they insist against it. The point of contention could be just the 2029 Champions Trophy, which will be held entirely in India.

Another flash-point could be next year's women's ODI World Cup in October, also to be held in India.

The state of flux surrounding next year's Champions Trophy is now expected to be resolved in the next couple of days after the ICC executive board considers Pakistan's latest demands.

The ICC Board met briefly to find a solution on Friday but no agreement could be reached.

The world body eventually told PCB to either accept the hybrid model or be prepared to be excluded from the tournament after Naqvi reiterated the unyielding position of his country.

The impasse has led to a delay in the announcement of the schedule for the tournament.

Naqvi, who is also the interior minister in his country, faces the prospect of a public backlash if PCB is seen to be backing down without any tangible gains.

Earlier in the day, he met Emirates Cricket Board head Mubashir Usmani in Dubai, conveying that Pakistan was ready to host the Champions Trophy and all the preparations were on schedule.

The PCB source though rejected speculation that the Board would get a bonus of USD 20 million besides the hosting fees of USD six million for the Champions Trophy for conceding to India's demands.

"Pakistan has taken only one stance and that is in future, it will also not play in India in any ICC events and the Hybrid model should be applied for all future ICC events that Pakistan and India will play their games at neutral venues," he said.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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New Zealand vs England 1st Test Day 4 Live Score Updates

New Zealand vs England, 1st Test Day 4 Live Updates: England are on the verge of wrapping up the first Test against New Zealand in Christchurch. A sustained seam attack by Chris Woakes and Brydon Carse following a belligerent batting effort on Day 3 put England in command. New Zealand were 155 for 6 at the close, ahead by just four runs and with only four wickets remaining. Daryl Mitchell (31 not out) and Nathan Smith (one not out) will resume the innings for the Blackcaps on the fourth day. The duo will aim to help New Zealand set a fighting target for England. The Three Lions made 499 in their first innings, an imposing 151-run lead, led by Harry Brook's 171. (Live Scorecard)

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Aus Great's Brutal 'Drop Labuschagne' Message For Selectors: "Play Some..."

Former pacer Mitchell Johnson reckons that Australia should drop out-of-form Marnus Labuschagne from the playing eleven for the day-night Adelaide Test against India, starting December 6. Labuschagne got out for two (52 balls) in the first innings and 5-ball three in the second essay during the Perth Test. "Marnus Labuschagne — after a lengthy poor run with the bat — should be replaced for the second Test in Adelaide. And that's not for the sake of having someone pay the price for the thrashing in Perth," Johnson wrote in ‘Nightly.' Johnson said it will help Labuschagne to go back to domestic cricket and rediscover his form.

"It (dropping) would give him a chance to play some Sheffield Shield and club cricket away from the pressure of playing for your country. I feel he would benefit from that more than going out there trying to survive against Jasprit Bumrah and co.,” he added.

Johnson said dropping Labuschagne, who has collected 4119 runs at an average of 48 from 51 Tests, should not be viewed as the end of the road for the top-order batter.

"In his past 10 Test innings, he's passed 10 just once. He's trying to fight through it in the middle but it's not currently working. Dropping Labuschagne, 30, would not mean he doesn't still have a long future in the Test team or that he's the wrong player to bat at three.

"For the time being in this form slump though, we need him to be better – which means making big runs, not bowling bouncers and risking the potential of injury when that's the job of the bowlers in the team," he added.

Johnson was referring to Labuschagne getting used as a back-up seamer after injury concerns to all-rounder Mitchell Marsh at Perth.

Johnson, who took 313 wickets with his left-arm pace and made 2065 runs from 73 Tests, said veteran batter Steve Smith too looked jaded.

"Steve Smith's form is a serious concern. He looks like he has lost his sharpness we are used to, missing balls on his pads that in the past were easy runs," he added.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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India vs PM's XI Live Streaming And Live Telcast: When And Where To Watch?

Prime Ministers XI vs India LIVE Telecast: India will face Prime Minister's XI in a two-day pink-ball practice match. It will be a day-night game and will serve as a preparation for the visitors' upcoming second Test of the ongoing five-match series against Australia. The last time India played Australia in a pink-ball game, they suffered an embarrassing 36 all out in their second innings. The visitors will aim to get some good practice before facing the Pat Cummins-led side again in a day-night Test.

India's aim during the two-day practice match would be to figure out their batting combination. KL Rahul opened for the side along with Yahsasvi Jaiswal in the absence of Rohit Sharma in the first Test in Perth. Given the regular captain has returned to the squad now, Rahul might have to leave the opening slot for him. India have played a total of four day-night Tests thus far with their only loss coming at Adelaide four years ago.

When will the India vs Prime Minister's XI practice match be played?

The India vs Prime Minister's XI practice match will be played on November 30 (Saturday) and December 1 (Sunday).

Where will the India vs Prime Minister's XI practice match be played?

The India vs Prime Minister's XI practice match will be played at the Manuka Oval, Canberra.

What time will India vs Prime Minister's XI practice match start?

The India vs Prime Minister's XI practice match will start at 9:10 AM (IST).

Where to follow the live streaming of the India vs Prime Minister's XI practice match?

The India vs Prime Minister's XI practice match will be streamed live on Disney+ Hotstar.

Where to follow live telecast of the India vs Prime Minister's XI practice match?

The India vs Prime Minister's XI practice match will be telecast live on Star Sports.

(All details are as per information provided by the broadcaster)

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New Zealand vs England 1st Test Day 3 Live Score Updates

New Zealand vs England 1st Test Day 3 Live Updates: Harry Brook will aim to continue his marathon knock with Ben Stokes as his partner, as five-down England aim to take lead against New Zealand on Day 3 of the ongoing first Test at Hagley Oval, Christchurch. A fearless Brook slammed an unbeaten century to give England the upper hand in the game against an error-strewn Blackcaps on day two. At stumps Brook was 132 not out with the visitors recovering from 71 for 4 to be 319 for 5, trailing the hosts by 29 runs and with five wickets in hand. Captain Stokes was unbeaten on 37 after being dropped by Tom Latham on 30 -- New Zealand's sixth dropped catch and the third by their skipper. (Live Scorecard)

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"Post 26/11...": Afridi's Direct Message To BCCI On Champions Trophy Mess

Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi has extended his support to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for not accepting the hybrid model for next year's Champions Trophy, scheduled to be played in Pakistan. The veteran all-rounder has blamed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for 'intertwining politics with sports' and called for ICC to 'uphold fairness and assert their authority'. The ICC Board meeting is set to take place on Friday to decide the schedule of the marquee tournament. The BCCI has told ICC that the Indian team will not travel to Pakistan for the tournament due to the Indian government's disallowance. However, the PCB is reluctant to host the entire tournament in Pakistan, leaving the future of the Champions Trophy uncertain.

Afridi added that Pakistan have travelled to India five times since the Mumbai terror attacks that deteriorated the relations of the neighbouring countries.

"By intertwining politics with sports, the BCCI has placed international cricket in a precarious position. Fully support the PCB's stance against the hybrid model - especially since Pakistan (despite security concerns) has toured India five times, including a bilateral white-ball series, post-26/11. It's time for the ICC and its Board of Directors to uphold fairness and assert their authority," Afridi wrote on X, formerly Twitter.

By intertwining politics with sports, the BCCI has placed international cricket in a precarious position. Fully support the PCB's stance against the hybrid model - especially since Pakistan (despite security concerns) has toured India five times, including a bilateral white-ball… pic.twitter.com/Xl4YBhCWuB

— Shahid Afridi (@SAfridiOfficial) November 28, 2024

The Champions Trophy is scheduled to be hosted across three venues in Pakistan over February and March next year. But India, who have not toured Pakistan since 2008, told the ICC that their government had not permitted them to travel to Pakistan for the event earlier this month.

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi has insisted that the PCB remains "clear" in its view on hosting the Champions Trophy, and added that "it's not possible that Pakistan play in India, and they don't come here".

"Our stance is very clear. I promise we'll do what is best for Pakistan cricket. I'm constantly in touch with the ICC chairman and my team is talking to them constantly. We're still clear in our stance that it's not acceptable that we play cricket in India, and they don't play cricket here. Whatever will happen, will happen on the basis of equality. We've told the ICC very clearly, and what happens next we'll let you know," Naqvi said during a press conference held at the Gaddafi Stadium.

"Whatever we do, we will make sure the best outcome for Pakistan is achieved," Naqvi said multiple times. "But I repeat, and I am sure you know what I mean, it's not possible that Pakistan play in India, and they don't come here," he added.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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New Zealand vs England 1st Test Day 2 Live Score Updates

New Zealand vs England 1st Test Day 2 Live Updates: England captured the vital wicket of Kane Williamson for 93 in a dramatic five-wicket final session to leave New Zealand 319 for 8 after day one of the first Test in Christchurch on Thursday. The hosts went to Tea at a healthy 193-3 and slumped to 252-7 before Glenn Phillips (41 not out) and Matt Henry (18) halted the collapse with a spirited 46-run stand for the eighth wicket. Shoaib Bashir, the only specialist spinner in the Test, was England's chief destroyer with 4-69. It left the contest finely balanced. (Live Scorecard)

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Pakistan At Risk Of Losing Champions Trophy Completely. Not Because Of BCCI

The 2025 Champions Trophy is likely to be moved out of Pakistan completely following the latest political unrest in the country which resulted in the Sri Lanka A cutting short their white-ball series, sources told IANS. The development comes a day before a virtual meeting of the International Cricket Council (ICC) Board, which will decide the schedule for the 2025 Champions Trophy. With some more participating countries expressing security concerns, the threat of the event being moved out of Pakistan looms, and under pressure, the PCB is likely to agree to host it in a hybrid model. "Some other cricket boards have also expressed concern. PCB may agree to a hybrid model," sources told IANS.

Pakistan's claims of successfully organising international cricket in the country suffered a big jolt on Tuesday as the Sri Lanka A team decided not to play the remaining two 50-over matches against Pakistan A due to socio-political unrest in the country's federal capital region.

Pakistan are hoping to host their first ICC event since 1996 but after this incident, the chances look bleak. The Pakistan capital is currently under security lockdown as a large number of supporters of jailed former Prime Minister and cricketer Imran Khan have laid siege to the capital, with many of them entering the city.

After India refused to travel across the border to play the Champion Trophy, this incident made hosting the mega event in the country further unfeasible and the possibility of ICC snatching the hosting rights from them now looks stronger.

International teams refused to travel to Pakistan for more than a decade following the attack on the Sri Lanka men's cricket team in 2013 and it was only recently that England, Bangladesh, New Zealand, and Sri Lanka sent their teams for short tours.

The cancellation of the Sri Lanka A tour will make the Champions Trophy wary of travelling to Pakistan because of safety concerns.

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1st Test, Day 1: Kumara Gives Sri Lanka Edge On Rain-Hit Day vs Proteas

Lahiru Kumara struck twice as Sri Lanka's bowlers had the better of a rain-hit opening day of the first Test against South Africa at Kingsmead on Wednesday. South Africa were 80 for four when rain stopped play for the day shortly before lunch. Fast bowler Kumara took wickets in successive overs to put his team on top -- and was denied a third wicket because of a no-ball. "There was a lot in favour of the bowling team and they bowled well. The deliveries that got wickets were all pretty decent," said South Africa batting coach Ashwell Prince.

"It's a skilled bowling line-up and obviously they have done their homework."

Sri Lankan bowling coach Darshana Gamage said pace was Kumara's biggest asset.

With a history of hamstring injuries, he is now being used as a Test specialist.

"In this Test championship, we wanted to have all our bowlers fresh," said Gamage.

"Our biggest challenge is to have quicks who will win us Test matches and I can say that we have the nucleus now to do the job away from home."

Sri Lanka's decision to bowl first on a well-grassed pitch paid off under a heavily overcast sky.

Namesakes Ajitha and Vishwa Fernando dismissed both South Africa's openers with the total on 14.

Ajitha Fernando had Aiden Markram caught at first slip and the left-armed Vishwa had the left-handed Tony de Zorzi caught at second slip in what were virtual mirror-image dismissals, with the ball swinging away from the batsmen.

Tristan Stubbs and South African captain Temba Bavuma defended doggedly, taking the total to 29 after 13 overs.

There was a flurry of scoring when Kumara came into the attack in the 14th over, with 17 runs added off his first over -- four leg-byes, a no-ball and three boundaries by Stubbs.

But the strongly-built Kumara found extra bounce with the first ball of his second over, having Stubbs caught at third slip for 16.

David Bedingham hit a boundary but was then beaten for pace by a ball which sent his off stump flying.

Kumara celebrated a third wicket when Bavuma, on 20, gloved an attempted hook at Kumara's first short-pitched delivery of the innings to be caught behind by wicketkeeper Kusal Mendis.

But a check by the third umpire showed that Kumara had over-stepped.

Bavuma, who was dropped at third slip by Dimuth Karunaratne off Vishwa Fernando when he was on one, was unbeaten on 28 when rain drove the players off the field.

The weather is expected to clear from Thursday and Prince said South Africa were in a reasonable position, referring to the first Test between Australia and India in Perth last weekend when two low first innings totals were followed by a strong Indian second-innings performance.

"Last week's Test in Australia was a good example of how when conditions change, things can change for the batting team. When the sun came out the pitch changed colour and conditions changed dramatically. We're hoping for a bit of sunshine tomorrow morning."

The two-Test series is crucial to both sides' hopes of reaching next year's World Test Championship final at Lord's, with Sri Lanka sitting third in the table and South Africa fifth.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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Rahane Or Venkatesh? KKR CEO's Brutally Honest Verdict On IPL Captaincy

There has been a lot of conversation surrounding the captaincy situation in Kolkata Knight Riders following the IPL 2025 auction. KKR won the IPL 2024 title under Shreyas Iyer's captaincy but the franchise decided to release the India batter ahead of the new season. Following the auction, two major contenders have emerged for the KKR captaincy role - Venkatesh Iyer and Ajinkya Rahane. While Rahane is the experienced option, the Rs 23.75 crore price tag makes Venkatesh a prime contender for the position. After the auction, KKR CEO Venky Mysore opened up about the situation and he provided a clear answer regarding the captaincy conundrum.

“Well, you know that. To be honest, we have to sit down and take stock. Sometimes what happens is, after you've done all of these things, you just have to sit down, reflect, look at the whole thing. There are stakeholders and parts of the think tank won't be here. So we'll all sit down and have a proper chat about that, and I'm sure a proper decision will be made," Mysore was quoted as saying to the broadcasters.

Meanwhile, Venkatesh Iyer on Sunday said he would be "more than happy" to take on the captaincy challenge and step into Shreyas Iyer's shoes.

In a bold and unexpected move, the Shah Rukh Khan-owned franchise chose not to retain their 2024 IPL-winning captain Shreyas Iyer at the mega auction here and went for an all out bidding war against Royal Challengers Bengaluru to secure Venkatesh.

"I had the opportunity to captain the side in Nitish Rana's absence when he was unfortunately injured, and I was the vice-captain as well," said Venkatesh after he was bought by KKR for the huge amount.

"I've always believed that captaincy is just a tag, but leadership is about creating an environment where everyone feels they can play for this team and contribute. If given the responsibility, I would be more than happy to take it on. Absolutely (I'm ready for it).

"Together, we will aim to defend the championship and continue our winning campaign. Thank you very much for picking me in your squad,” he added.

(With PTI inputs)

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"Stop...": Aus Great's Brutal Take On Bumrah's 'Illegal Action' Allegation

Former India head coach Greg Chappell believes that the Australian top order is a major concern for the hosts after a 295-run loss to India in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series opener in Perth. India's win was biggest by the margin of runs against Australia in Australia. The previous biggest win dates back to 1977, when India won their first Test Down Under in Melbourne. It was also their 10th Test victory in the country. After opting to bat first, India were bowled out for just 150 but Jasprit Bumrah, standing in as captain in full-time skipper Rohit Sharma's absence, swung the momentum back in India's favour with a brilliant five-wicket haul that restricted Australia to just 104. Overall, he snapped eight wickets across the match.

"Yet it was Australia's batting performance that was more concerning. India's bowlers, spearheaded by the lethal Jasprit Bumrah, looked sharper and more menacing. By the way, please stop this nonsense of questioning Bumrah's action. It is unique, but it is unequivocally clean. It demeans a champion performer and the game to even bring it up. The top order is a major concern. To avoid forced changes, they must deliver in Adelaide," Chappell wrote in his column in The Sydney Morning Herald.

Australia batter Marnus Labuschagne is facing pressure, having not scored a century since July 2023. He was dismissed for 2 from 52 balls and 3 from five deliveries in the first Test. Chappell believes that the right-hander is playing for survival instead of looking for runs.

"Marnus Labuschagne knows he is under pressure. With only 330 runs from his last 16 innings, he must rediscover his form quickly and revert to the free-flowing style of old; two off 52 balls is not good enough. A change of mindset should be his first port of call. He looks to be batting for survival when he really should be looking to score runs. A subtle but important difference," he wrote.

"At this stage, I don't expect the Australian selectors to panic. However, if the same team takes the field in Adelaide and falters under the lights … watch out!" Chappell added.

After India managed to dismiss Australia for 104 in the first innings and gained a 46-run advantage, Yashasvi Jaiswal (161) and KL Rahul (77) set the stage for a big total. The duo combined to add 201 runs - the highest opening wicket stand for India in Australia.

Chappell was full of praises for "emerging superstar" Jaiswal and called him a fearless cricketer who is following the mantle of Indian batting greats like Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli.

"The pitch, too, evolved, becoming less treacherous. Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul capitalised, making the Australian bowlers look ordinary. Rahul's quality is well-known, but Jaiswal is an emerging superstar. The young opener is fearless and appears poised to inherit the mantle of Indian batting excellence, following the likes of Virat Kohli and Sachin Tendulkar," he wrote.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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West Indies Wrap Up 201-Run Victory As Injury Ends Bangladesh Hopes

West Indies defeated Bangladesh by 201 runs on Tuesday to win the first Test, wrapping up a quick victory when tailender Shoriful Islam was forced to retire hurt. Chasing an unlikely 334 to win, and resuming on their overnight score of 109-7, Bangladesh lost Jaker Ali and Hasan Mahmud to fast bowler Alzarri Joseph early in the first session of the final day at North Sound. With Bangladesh on 132-9, last-man Shoriful retired injured having been hit on the back of his shoulder ducking into a bouncer by Alzarri Joseph in the fifth over of the day.

The right-arm quick had already removed Mahmud in the third over of the morning with the batsman caught behind for nought. Jaker's innings came to an end on 31 when he was lbw to Joseph for 31.

Jaker, who made a half century in the first innings, was just one of four Bangladesh batsmen to reach double figures in the second innings with skipper Mehidy Hasan Miraz top-scoring with 45.

Opening bowlers Kemar Roach (3-20) and Jayden Seales (3-45) did the bulk of the damage for the home side while Alzarri Joseph finished with 2-32. "A lot of learning has taken place from the England tour," said West Indies captain Kraigg Brathwaite reflecting on their 3-0 hammering in July. 

"Test cricket is all about learning and that's what I tell our guys. Good to get a Test win and we continue working hard."

While Taskin Ahmed took 6-64 in West Indies' second innings, it was a disappointing match for Bangladesh's batsmen who saw seven of their top eight make it into double figures in the first innings but none going beyond Jaker's 53.  "We didn't bat well in this match," said skipper Miraz. 

"I think we made a few mistakes but that can happen. We hope to come back strongly in the next match. We know what mistakes we made and we need to come back stronger."

The second Test of the series gets underway in Jamaica on Saturday.

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IPL's Youngest Buy Suryavanshi Faces Age Fraud Allegations. Father Says...

When Sanjiv Suryavanshi sold his farmland to fund his 10-year-old son Vaibhav's cricketing aspirations, little did he know that within three years the boy would be scripting history. During the second and final day of the IPL mega auction in Jeddah, Vaibhav, at 13 years and eight months, became the youngest cricketer ever to be picked by a franchise as Rajasthan Royals bought him for Rs 1.10 crore. Sanjiv, who owned farmland in his native Motipur village which is 15 km from Samastipur town in Bihar, was lost for words.

"Woh ab sirf humra bituwa nahi pura Bihar ka bituwa hai (He is not just my son now but entire Bihar's son)," Sanjiv told PTI over phone as his son is currently in Dubai for the U-19 Asia Cup.

"My son has worked hard. At the age of 8 years, he excelled at U-16 district trials. I would take him for his cricket coaching to Samastipur and then take him back," he recalled the days of hardships.

So were his finances in place as cricket is an investment? "Not just investment, it's a big investment. Aapko kya bataye humne toh apna zameen tak bech diya. Abhi bhi halat pura sudhra nahi (I have sold my land. Financial issues are still there)."

When asked about the controversies regarding Vaibhav's actual age which many believe is 15 years, the father was quick to clarify. "When he was 8 and half years old he first appeared for a BCCI bone test. He has already played India U-19. We don't fear anyone. He can again undergo age test," he sounded defiant.

Sanjiv said that Bihar Cricket Association president Rakesh Tiwary's "blessings" have always helped Vaibhav in his journey.

"Rakesh ji ka ashirwaad raha hai bahoot (Rakesh ji's blessings are there)." His base price in the auction was Rs. 30 lakh and Delhi Capitals made the opening bid. RR entered the fray at Rs. 35 lakh and eventually got the better of DC to get the player on board.

So how did this bidding war happened? "Rajasthan Royals had called him for trials in Nagpur. Vikram Rathour sir (batting coach) gave a match situation where he had to score 17 in an over. Bituwa ne 3 chakka mara. Trials mein aat chakka aur char chauwaa mara (He smashed three sixes. At trials, he hit eight sixes and four fours)," the father claimed proudly.

For a 13-year-old, it can be very difficult to understand what it means to earn a crore. So how does he plan to keep his young son away from monetary discussions? "He just wants to play cricket and nothing else. A few years back he loved Doremon, not anymore," Sanjiv said.

BCA lauds selection

BCA president Tiwary was all praise for the prodigy after his 1.10 crore bid for RR.

"Vaibhav Suryavanshi's incredible achievement at such a young age fills us with immense pride," Tiwary said in a statement.

"His journey from Bihar to the IPL is a reflection of his talent, hard work, and determination. The Bihar Cricket Association has always believed in nurturing young talent, and Vaibhav's success highlights the cricketing potential in our state.

"We are confident he will continue to shine and inspire aspiring cricketers across Bihar and beyond. I congratulate Vaibhav and his family." 

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All Team Compositions After Day 1 Of IPL Auction: Total Purse Spent Is...

A total of 84 players (72 sold and 12 unsold) went under the hammer on the first day of the IPL mega auction In Jeddah, Saudi Arabia on Sunday with teams breaking the bank for the marquee Indian cricketers. India wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant pipped Shreyas Iyer (Rs 26.75 crore) to become the costliest buy in IPL's history with a Rs 27 crore winning bid from Lucknow Super Giants, while Venkatesh Iyer was the surprise show-stopper as he was bought back for Rs 23.75 crore by his former franchise Kolkata Knight Riders. Teams spent a total sum of Rs 467.95 crore on Day 1.

Here is the team-wise list of the players sold by the end of the first day of the auction along with those unsold (price in Rs):

Chennai Super Kings: Ravichandran Ashwin for Rs 9.75 crore Devon Conway for Rs 6.25 crore Rachin Ravindra for Rs 4 crore Rahul Tripathi for Rs 3.40 crore Khaleel Ahmed for Rs 4.80 crore Noor Ahmad for Rs 10 crore Vijay Shankar Rs 1.20 crore Retained: Ruturaj Gaikwad, Matheesha Pathirana, Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, MS Dhoni.

Mumbai Indians: Trent Boult for Rs 12.50 crore Naman Dhir for RS 5.25 crore Robin Minz for Rs 65 lakh Karn Sharma for Rs. 50 lakh Retained: Jasprit Bumrah, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Rohit Sharma, Tilak Varma

Rajasthan Royals: Jofra Archer for Rs 12.50 crore Maheesh Theekshana for Rs 4.40 crore Wanindu Hasaranga for Rs 5.25 crore Akash Madhwal for Rs 1.20 crore Kumar Kartikeya for Rs. 30 lakh Retained: Sanju Samson, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Riyan Parag, Dhruv Jurel, Shimron Hetmyer, Sandeep Sharma

Gujarat Titans: Jos Buttler for Rs 15.75 crore Mohammed Siraj for Rs 12.25 crore Prasidh Krishna for Rs 9.50 crore Kagiso Rabada for Rs 10.75 crore Nishant Sidhu Rs 30 lakh Mahipal Lomror for Rs 1.70 crore Kumar Kushagra for Rs 65 lakh Anuj Rawat for Rs 30 lakh Manav Suthar for Rs. 30 lakh Retained: Rashid Khan, Shubman Gill, Sai Sudharsan, Rahul Tewatia, Shahrukh Khan

Kolkata Knight Riders: Venkatesh Iyer for Rs 23.75 crore Anrich Nortje for Rs 6.50 crore Quinton de Kock for Rs 3.60 crore Rahmanullah Gurbaz for Rs 2 crore Angkrish Raghuvanshi for Rs 3 crore Vaibhav Arora for Rs 1.80 crore Mayank Markande for Rs. 30 lakh Retained: Rinku Singh, Varun Chakaravarthy, Sunil Narine, Andre Russell, Harshit Rana, Ramandeep Singh.

Delhi Capitals: KL Rahul for Rs 14 crore Mitchell Starc for Rs 11.75 crore Jake Fraser-McGurk for Rs 9 crore Harry Brook for Rs 6.25 crore T Natarajan for Rs 10.75 crore Sameer Rizvi Rs 95 lakh Karun Nair Rs 50 lakh Ashutosh Sharma Rs 3.80 crore Mohit Sharma for Rs. 2.20 crore Retained: Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Tristan Stubbs, Abhishek Porel.

Punjab Kings: Shreyas Iyer for Rs 26.75 crore Yuzvendra Chahal for Rs 18 crore Arshdeep Singh for Rs 18 crore Marcus Stoinis for Rs 11 crore Glenn Maxwell for Rs 4.20 crore Nehal Wadhera for Rs 4.20 crore Harpreet Brar for Rs 1.50 crore Vishnu Vinod for Rs 95 lakh Vyshak Vijaykumar for Rs 1.80 crore Yash Thakur for Rs. 1.80 crore Retained: Shashank Singh, Prabhsimran Singh

Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Josh Hazlewood for RS 12.50 crore Phil Salt for Rs 11.50 crore Jitesh Sharma for Rs 11 crore Liam Livingstone for Rs 8.75 crore Rasikh Salam for Rs. 6 crore Suyash Sharma for Rs. 2.60 crore Retained: Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar, Yash Dayal

Sunrisers Hyderabad: Ishan Kishan Rs 11.25 crore Mohammed Shami Rs 10 crore Harshal Patel for Rs 8 crore Adam Zampa for Rs 2.40 crore Rahul Chahar for Rs 3.20 crore Abhinav Manohar for Rs 3.20 crore Atharva Taide Rs 30 lakh Simarjeet Singh for Rs. 1.5 crore Retained: Pat Cummins, Abhishek Sharma, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Heinrich Klaasen, Travis Head.

Lucknow Super Giants: Rishabh Pant for Rs 27 crore Avesh Khan for Rs 9.75 crore David Miller for Rs 7.50 crore Mitchell Marsh for Rs 3.40 crore Aiden Markram for Rs 2 crore Aryan Juyal for Rs. 30 lakh Retained: Nicholas Pooran, Ravi Bishnoi, Mayank Yadav, Mohsin Khan, Ayush Badoni.

List of unsold players with base price: David Warner (Rs 2 crore) Devdutt Padikkal (Rs 2 crore) Jonny Bairstow (Rs 2 crore) Waqar Salamkheil (Rs 75 lakh) Yash Dhull (Rs 30 lakh) Anmolpreet Singh (Rs 30 lakh) Upendra Yadav - (Rs 30 lakh) Luvith Sisodia - (Rs 30 lakh) Kartik Tyagi - (Rs 40 lakh) Utkarsh Singh - (Rs 30 lakh) Piyush Chawla - (Rs 50 lakh) Shreyas Gopal - (Rs 30 lakh).

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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On Ashwin-CSK Reunion, Head Coach's "Not So Much About Price" Remark

Chennai Super Kings can use Ravichandran Ashwin in "a number of ways" in the IPL 2025, said head coach Stephen Fleming after the five-time champions completed the venerable spinner's homecoming at the mega auction in Jeddah on Sunday. Ashwin was bought by CSK for Rs 9.75 crore during the opening day of the auction, as CSK looked to add players whose skill sets are suited to conditions at the Chepauk, which is known for producing slow and low turners. Having made his debut for CSK in 2009, Ashwin was a part of the team's title-winning campaign in 2010 and 2011 and has also also played for Kings XI Punjab (now Punjab Kings), Rising Pune Supergiants, Delhi Capitals and Rajasthan Royals.

"It was a bit of a homecoming for Ashwin but he's a world class bowler. Like Venky talked about, it's not so much the price, you look at how someone fits in and there's an emotional attachment of Ashwin with Chennai, so it is a nice fit," Fleming said at a press conference.

He was seated with Kolkata Knight Riders' managing director Venky Mysore.

"He has still got a very good skill set but the bowler's numbers are fantastic, he's obviously towards the latter part of his career but the experience that he brings is handy with the bat and we think we can use him in a number of ways," Fleming added.

Apart from Ashwin, CSK also bought Afghanistan spinner Noor Ahmad, who has played in the IPL for Gujarat Titans, for Rs 10 crore.

Fleming said the move was aimed at addressing specific bowling plans of the team.

"(The choice of) Noor Ahmed was looking more at the middle to attack, so if we do get turning conditions, then we've got an opportunity to keep taking wickets," he said.

"We've got (Matheesha) Pathirana at the end which is the death aspect and we've just identified that the way the game's going, your bowling has to be really specific and you have to take wickets to slow teams down." "If you're just trying to contain then some of the hitting power of players these days will just take the game away from you, so we've tried to be smart with our options given our retained players and add some variation which maybe we lacked a little bit last year," he said.

Fleming said CSK were surprised that not many teams showed interest in New Zealand star Rachin Ravindra, whose career graph has seen a big spike in the last two years.

"Yeah we were, we thought (that) Rachin, given his success in the Test series that often counts — the performances leading up to an IPL — but we obviously experienced the IPL with us last year," he said.

"To pick him up at what I think is a low price and continue his development, he could be a player with that skill set.

"He does the same as (Ravindra) Jadeja at the moment, but looking forward there could be an opportunity, so if his development continues, he's a very silky player and we're really happy to have him at that price," Fleming said.

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1st Test Live: Jaiswal, Rahul Eye Tons As India Look To Extend Lead vs Aus

IND vs AUS LIVE Score, 1st Test Day 3: India will look to seize control over Australia by extending their lead on Day 3 of the 1st Test in Perth. On Day 2, Yashasvi Jaiswal hit a composed unbeaten 90 and KL Rahul a stylish 62, helping India earn a 218-run lead. Jaiswal and Rahul added an unbeaten 172 runs for the opening stand and the duo will look to bat with the same mojo when the play resumes on Day 3. After making a miserly 150 on a lively pitch in their first innings, the pressure was again on. But their response proved admirable. They took a 46-run advantage into the second innings after dismissing the hosts for a meagre 104 at lunch. (Live Scorecard)

Here are the LIVE Score Updates of India vs Australia 1st Test Match Day 3, Straight from Optus Stadium, Perth

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"Little Bit Surprised": Aus Coach's Observation After India Dominate Day 2

The home team bowlers did not put a foot wrong but the pitch "surprisingly" dried up quite quickly at the Optus stadium on the second day, eventually helping the Indian batters, reckons Australia head coach Andrew McDonald. India openers Yashasvi Jaiswal (90) and KL Rahul (62) frustrated the hosts with their dogged unbeaten 172-run stand that has put the game in firm control of the visitors, who now lead by 218 runs. While the wickets fell in heap on the opening day with as many as 17 batters getting out, only three Australian tail-enders were dismissed on the second day. "The surface looked considerably dry today. It dried out fairly quickly," said McDonald during the post-day press conference.

"We thought there may have been a little bit more there. So, I suppose if you want to say that we were a little bit surprised, yeah, there wasn't as much seam movement or swing.

"The bowlers were presenting the seam in a similar fashion to they were yesterday. So I think the conditions may have had some say in that." McDonald said there was hardly any assistance for seam or swing, compared to the first day.

"If you look at the seam and swing, it was down comparative to yesterday. Yesterday was difficult work, I thought KL (Rahul) and Jaiswal played extremely well also.

"You need to ride your luck a little bit. Our guys got the balls in the right areas, and there was some plays and misses as well, so anything can happen if you get some edges on that. It could be a totally different day, but I think the conditions have changed, I'll state that," he said.

"In terms of the way that we bowled, I don't think it was too dissimilar, potentially early on we may have been a fraction short, if it was to be critical, but I thought they went about their work well, it could have been a different day." However, McDonald does not think Australia do not stand a chance in the series-opener, pinning hopes on the nature of Test cricket that keeps both the teams in hunt till the end.

"You've got the driver's seat at the moment, but that's not to say that tomorrow can't change very quickly. Test cricket ebbs and flows, we've all been a part of a game when you've been well ahead of the game and it can twist and turn, so we've got to get to work on what it looks like for us tomorrow morning," he said.

"It's about 20 odd overs to the second new ball, we've got to work out a way to navigate through a few batters before that second new ball arrives and that could be our entry point back into the game." He though admitted that they have to "get tactics right".

"If we're too aggressive then the scoreboard runs and then you put yourself right up against it. So it's a real combination about controlling the tempo of the game and creating opportunities within that." From the situation that India have batted themselves into, it is real a possibility that the hosts maybe looking at stiff chase of beyond 400 but McDonald would prefer not to look that far ahead.

"We're not looking that far ahead, we've got 10 wickets to take first, so that's our first focus. No, no targets, clearly 10 wickets to get, first priority, then we'll move from there." Talking about the frantic first day, the Australia coach admitted that it could be due to the nerves the players of both the teams felt due to the occasion.

"No doubt both the teams would have had some nerves there leading into a big series, so there might have been some error on the back of that, but I think as a batting unit when you get a look at a wicket and then obviously your bowlers go about their work and you get a second up opportunity, I think it looks a little bit different in terms of your mindset, your knowing what to expect and you can work from there." McDonald also backed Marnus Labuschagne, who consumed 52 balls for his two runs in the first innings.

"He's working his game as hard as ever. There's no doubt he can learn some lessons from the first innings, like I think both teams' batters.

"So he'll be the same in the nets this morning, working through what his method's going to be in the second innings. And clearly, your mindset changes based upon the conditions as well. So the game plan from the first innings is going to look different from the second innings." 

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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How Virat Kohli Lost Tactical Battle To Josh Hazlewood In Perth Test

The entire Optus Stadium in Perth cheered as India's Virat Kohli walked out to bat against Australia on Day 1 of the first Test. Kohli, whose place in the Indian team is under question over repeated failures, was backed to rise to the occasion and deliver with the bat against the opposition he loves facing the most. Kohli even came up with a new plan to counter the threat posed by the Aussies, batting outside the crease but the move backfired.

Kohli came out to bat with the intent of countering the sharp bounce available on Perth pitch by batting a little ahead of the crease. During his 12-ball stay at the crease, however, the talismanic batter looked far from comfortable. After adding just 5 runs to India's tally, Virat fell to a tactically smart delivery from Hazlewood in the 13th over.

Kohli made a debatable decision to bat well outside the crease in an attempt to negate the movement and bounce that the Australian pacers were managing to produce from the surface. However, the strategy fell flat on its face.

Realising that ploy Kohli had come up with, Hazlewood delivered a brilliant short-pitched ball. Kohli couldn't establish control over the delivery as the ball climbed on him, caught the edge, and landed into the safe hands of Usman Khawaja.

Kohli's decision to start well in front of the crease was a strategy that analysts on social media associated with a dip in his confidence.

"Virat Kohli's average interception point in that innings was the furthest down the track ever in his Test career. It's always what he does when he's under pressure - fire with fire. Quite a thing to try and do given his form though," an analyst remarked in on X (formerly Twitter).

Virat Kohli's average interception point in that innings was the furthest down the track ever in his Test career. It's always what he does when he's under pressure - fire with fire. Quite a thing to try and do given his form though

— Ben Jones (@benjonescricket) November 22, 2024

With another low score to his name, Kohli is bound to be under more pressure when he walks out to bat next.

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"Someone Like...": Pujara Wants This Star To Bat At No. 3 vs Aus. Not Gill

The 2024/25 Border Gavaskar Trophy will get underway on Friday, with India taking on Australia in the first Test of a five-match series in Perth. The Indian team will enter an unfamiliar territory as veteran batter Cheteshwar Pujara, who was a vital cog in the team's last two Test series triumphs in Australia, not part of the team for the lengthy tour. Pujara, who is part of the official commentary team for the series, feels Test cricket is moving into a different direction with white-ball players provide a fresh approach to batting in the longest format of the game.

Young batter Shubman Gill, who has been batting at no. 3, a position which Pujara made his own for over a decade, is likely to miss the opening game at the Optus Stadium due to a thumb injury.

Gill will have his task cut out against Australia, but Pujara wants the youngster to back his technique and carve out his own identity.

"Shubman has already played Tests in Australia. He has experience of handling those conditions. He should back his style and play according to it. But he needs to be clear about which shots to play and which ones to avoid because you can't play many of the shots in Australia that you play in India," Pujara in an interaction organised by Star Sports.

Pujara also advised Gill to be a bit thoughtful with his shot selection going forward.

"He needs to assess his strengths and identify the shots he must avoid. But he is a very talented player with a wide range of shots in his repertoire. Still, in Australia, you often have to avoid many shots. He needs to identify and avoid those," he added.

However, Pujara wants veteran batter KL Rahul to bat no. 3, highlighting the latter's experience of batting in the middle order the key factor.

"Someone like KL Rahul would be good at No. 3 because he has the technique and temperament for it, but it seems like the management want to make him open the batting," Pujara explained.

Meanwhile, Devdutt Padikkal, who was added to India's squad on the eve of the 1st Test, is likely to bat at no. 3 if Gill misses out.

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India, Pakistan Not In Same Pool For Champions Trophy? ICC 'Under Stress'

The solution to the Champions Trophy 2025 host venue row does not look a straight-forward one. India does not want to travel to Pakistan, while the latter does not want to play in hybrid model. Without the consent of the two, the ICC not being able to announce the Champions Trophy 2025 schedule. Former Pakistan player Basit Ali has said with both India and Pakistan not relenting, the possibility of both teams playing in separate pools in the Champions Trophy is also being thought of, but that scenario is not acceptable to the broadcasters. 

"What did I tell you about the Champions Trophy, I hope you remember? Try and do the hybrid model, Pakistan and India will not be in the same pool. What happened? Now, I talk to the people who say Ashes is a big series, Border-Gavsakar is a very big series, they should open their eyes. Broadcaster isn't agreeing to (hybrid model or India and Pakistan in different pools) and it won't," said Basit Ali on his YouTube channel. 

"Pakistan hasn't won against India in any 50-over World Cup. Even then why an India vs Pakistan match is so much important? Even then why is the broadcaster creating so much noise that the hybrid model is not acceptable. Even for ICC, it is not acceptable. If there is no India-Pakistan match in a tournament, then it would be like a tasteless dish.

"PCB has played its cards very well, well done! If you want to go ahead with the hybrid model, do it. But India and Pakistan won't be in the same pool, and Pakistan will play all their matches at home, If you have the courage, do it. ICC under stress," said Basit.

"BCCI sends a message to the ICC, and it is relayed to the PCB. Then the PCB sends a message to the ICC, and it is forwarded to the BCCI. Then the broadcaster jumped in and asked 'what's happening, this is not agreeable to us'. That's why ICC is not comfortable."

With both BCCI and Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) adamant on their stands at the moment, there is no clarity over the future of the competition. However, legendary Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar fired a grave warning to both PCB and International Cricket Council (ICC) as he reminded them that without India, they stand to lose $100 million (around Rs 844 crore).

"If Pakistan is not able to bring India to our country, or to a neutral venue, two things will happen. First, we will lose about $100 million from sponsorship which ICC and the hosting country receive. Second, it will be so much better that India comes to Pakistan, plays in Lahore and win or lose, whatever may be the scenario," Shoaib Akhtar said on a Pakistan channel.

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Pant Tipped To Become 'Most Expensive Buy' At IPL Auction By Ex-India Stars

Former India batter Robin Uthappa has claimed that bids for wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant will earn a paycheck of anywhere between Rs 25-28 crore in the upcoming IPL 2025 Mega Auction. Pant is amongst the high-profile Indian players in the auction, to be held on November 24 and 25 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, after not being retained by Delhi Capitals. With him in the auction, teams like Punjab Kings, Lucknow Super Giants, Chennai Super Kings and Royal Challengers Bengaluru are expected to bid heavily for him.

"I feel Rishabh Pant will go at around Rs 25-28 crores. He will definitely get the big bucks and become the highest-paid player in this auction. To afford Pant at such rates would be interesting to see, because I feel Punjab Kings may aim to get him, and so will RCB, for the role of leadership and as a wicketkeeper-batsman," said Uthappa on JioCinema.

Similar sentiments were echoed by former India opener Aakash Chopra. "I feel Rishabh Pant is going to become the most expensive player in the history of the IPL. If there is a good equation between Pant and Punjab Kings, then they will go hard for him, or else RCB becomes a very likely place for Rishabh Pant. But I believe other teams will also bid for Pant as well. Indian players are going to be the prime property in this mega auction."

Uthappa also thinks DC will go hard on buying back Shreyas Iyer, who was with the franchise from 2015 to 2021. "DC will go hard for Shreyas Iyer, and he should go within the bracket of 15-20 crores, and du Plessis above 10 crores. Indian youngsters like Nehal Wadhera and Ashutosh Sharma are a big part and the reason for the success of any team, and you want them to do really well. I think they will go for above 8 crores each."

Chopra mentioned that young Australian opener Jake Fraser-McGurk could be taken in by Punjab Kings, after a great opening stint with DC in IPL 2024. "With Ricky Ponting being with Punjab Kings, I feel they will target Jake Fraser-McGurk, and they would be keen on having him."

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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"Kohli Trying To Play In Pak...": Amid CT Stand-Off, Pace Great's Insight

The puzzle surrounding the Champions Trophy 2025 host venue is showing no signs of getting solved. Will it be held in Pakistan, or a hybrid model will be followed, or it will be completely shifted out of Pakistan? These are the three questions that have been the talking points in world cricket in recent past. It all started when the BCCI informed the International Cricket Council (ICC) that the Indian cricket team won't be travelling to Pakistan, the designated hosts, for the Champions Trophy. 

Since then, the PCB have shown a hard stance that a hybrid model is not acceptable to them. Now, Pakistan pace great Shoaib Akhtar has given his take on the issue.   

"There will be back channel talks. Even in days of war there is back channel talks. We should not lose hope. We have to look forward to a solution. We know a fact that 95-96 per cent of sponsorship for ICC comes from India," Shoaib Akhtar said in an interview. 

"It's really up to the governments. It's nothing to do with the BCCI. Virat Kohli is trying to play in Pakistan for the first time. Pakistan wants to see Virat play in Pakistan. Imagine him scoring a century in Pakistan. It will be a full circle for him. Pakistan has got a tag that it cannot host big tournaments like World Cup. If this (Champions Trophy) happens it will be a stepping stone for bigger events. I don't think this will happen. Keeping the fingers crossed. Wait till the last moment. I think currently, as of now, India is coming to Pakistan." 

Meanwhile, sources close to the development have revealed to new agency IANS that the ICC is likely to finalize and announce the schedule by the end of this week, following ongoing discussions with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to address India's concerns.

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"I Love Cricket But...": Aus Great's Clear Take On Rohit Missing 1st Test

Former Australia skipper Michael Clarke has come out in support of India captain Rohit Sharma's decision to miss out on the Border Gavaskar Trophy series opener due to the birth of his second child. During the buildup of the series between two Test heavyweights, Rohit's participation in Perth on Friday was up for debate. Last Saturday, Rohit took to Instagram to announce the birth of his second child. After the news became a hot topic on social media, reports suggested that Rohit is expected to miss the first Test. While former India captain Sourav Ganguly suggested that Rohit should feature in the opening Test, many stars came out in support of the Indian skipper's decision.

After Australia opener Travis Head, Clark completely agreed and respected Rohit's decision by declaring that family "always" comes first.

"To be honest, the greatest day of my life over any cricket event, over any Test match victory, over captaining Australia. The greatest day of my life was the day when my daughter was born, and being there for that moment was the most special moment of my life," Clarke said while speaking to Revsportz.

"So 100 per cent if I was having my daughter and I had a game of cricket, I love cricket, I love representing my country, and I love captaining Australia, but family always comes first. It has to. So, being there for my little girl, I would do it every day of the week. So I completely respect and agree with Rohit's decision," he added.

Clarke acknowledged that Rohit's hunger to play for India matches his appetite to represent Australia. He knows the Indian skipper will be missed in the first Test but respects his decision.

"I have no doubt that in an ideal world, it would have been great if his second child came a week early or two weeks early so he could play every Test match. Rohit loves playing for India as much as I love playing for Australia. He is a great player and a wonderful captain. He will be missed. But every single person must respect that decision of any man," Clarke noted.

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"This Could Be Last...": Ganguly's Unfiltered Verdict As Kohli Faces Heat

The entire cricket world is rallying behind Virat Kohli to produce an upturn in his form, after what has been a dismal year for the talismanic batter. In the 3-match Test series against New Zealand, Kohli even failed to cross the 100-run mark cumulatively in 6 innings. As he arrives in Australia, a happy hunting ground over the years, former India captain Sourav Ganguly has backed him to regain his mojo and steer the team forward with his runs in the series.

Ganguly also made a bold remark on Virat's career, suggesting this might be the last time the star batter will feature against Australia Down Under. Already 36, Kohli might not be a part of the Indian team when the unit arrives in Australia again in a few years' time for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

"Absolutely, he is a champion batter," Ganguly told RevSportz when asked if he is backing Kohli to make it count in Australia.

"And he has had success in Australia in the past. He scored four hundreds in 2014, scored a hundred in 2018 as well. He will want to make this series count, and he will also know this could be the last time he is touring Australia to play Test cricket. So, in every sense, this is a massive series for Kohli. I don't want to read too much into the New Zealand series. The pitches did not allow good batting. In Australia, he will enjoy the conditions. There will be good pitches. I am backing Virat to deliver in Australia in this series," he asserted. 

Kohli only registered one 50+ score in 6 innings as India stumbled to a 0-3 whitewash at home against the Kiwis. This year so far, Virat has only scored 250 runs in 12 Test innings, across six matches at an average of 22.72. He doesn't have a single Test ton to his name this year.

In Australia, however, he has aggregated 1352 runs in 13 Tests at a sublime average of 54.08, which includes 6 centuries.

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"Had Personal Rivalry With Virat Kohli": Ex Aus Star's Big BGT Confession

Australia have not beaten India home or away in a Test series since the 2014/15 tour Down Under. Currently under the leadership of Pat Cummins, the Aussies would look to right the wrong in the five-match series starting next Friday. Former pacer Mitchell Johnson, who was part of the last Australia side to beat India, has credited his one-time rival Virat Kohli for transforming the Indian cricket for good. Johnson feels Kohli's combative attitude is one of his biggest attributes. 

"When Virat Kohli first came on the scene, I remember hearing about him before I saw him. Many were saying he was the next Sachin Tendulkar, even though we all knew Sachin could never be replaced. I was fortunate enough to play against both Indian legends in all formats and while there are some similarities, they were also very different. One of Kohli's attributes stood out early to me above all others - he was up for the fight!" Johnson wrote in his column for The West Australian.

"That kind of aggressive attitude was something we had rarely seen from an Indian player at that point. We were used to giving it but didn't always get it back in return. While the occasional player from India may have been combative in moments, Kohli really made it a part of his game. He took his team with him as well so it's not an understatement to say that Kohli changed the face of Indian cricket, taking a new generation of players and showing them how to play tough cricket," he added.

Johnson recalled the 2014-15 series against India where Kohli did the majority of the scoring, even though Australia won the four match series 2-0. Johnson also said he had a personal rivalry with Kohli, but he enjoyed every minute of their duels.

"I remember hearing at the back end of Tendulkar and Virender Sehwag's careers, a young Kohli would push his teammates to go harder at training, particularly with fielding drills. He would train like he played and pushed players around him to get better. Kohli was demanding but he is one of those players you want in your team because he has your back and that is important in team sports. I could sense a difference in the Indian team I played against in 2014/15, my last full Aussie summer before I retired from international cricket the following November. They were competitive and confident they could beat us at home and while they didn't do it that summer, won 2-0 by Australia over four Tests, that was the last time the Aussies have won the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. I had a well-publicised personal rivalry with Kohli. We had many interactions on the field and I enjoyed it," recalled Johnson.

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India vs India A, Day 3 Live: India Eye New No. 3 After Gill Fracture

India vs India A Simulation Match Day 3 Live Updates: India and India A will face off in the intra-team simulation match at Perth's Western Australia Cricket Association (WACA) Ground for the third and final day. India are in need of a solution at No. 3, after Shubman Gill was ruled out of the first Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy due to a thumb fracture. So far, Ruturaj Gaikwad has impressed the most, as per reports. On the other hand, India will also look to scan their fast-bowling options once more as they look to finalise their pace battery for the first Test, starting November 22. 

Here are the Live Updates of India vs India A Simulation Match Day 3:

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5 Youngest Players In IPL 2025 Auction: One Has Been Scouted By CSK

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 mega auction promises plenty of surprises and record-breaking moments, with an unprecedented number of Indian and overseas superstars in contention. All ten franchises are gearing up to build their squads from scratch. A total of 574 players have been shortlisted from an initial pool of 1,574 names. These players will go under the hammer from November 24-25 in Jeddah. The list includes 208 overseas players, 12 uncapped overseas talents, and 318 uncapped Indian players, according to Wisden.

Here are the five youngest players in the auction list:

Vaibhav Suryavanshi (Age: 13 years 234 days)

Born on March 27, 2011, in Bihar, Vaibhav is the youngest player on the list. He made his first-class debut for Bihar in January 2024 at just 12 years and 284 days old. Last month, he was part of India U19's match against Australia in Chennai, where he smashed a 58-ball century.

In five first-class matches, Vaibhav has scored 100 runs, with a highest score of 41. He is currently participating in the ongoing Ranji Trophy.

Ayush Mhatre (Age: 17 years 123 days)

An opening batter, Mhatre earned a surprise call-up to Mumbai's Irani Trophy squad last month but failed to impress with scores of 19 and 14 against the Rest of India.

However, Mhatre has showcased excellent form in the Ranji Trophy, scoring 52 in his debut innings and following it with a 176 against Maharashtra. In the ongoing match against Services, he scored 116 in Mumbai's first innings. Across five matches and nine innings, he has accumulated 408 runs at an average of 45.33, with two centuries and one fifty. His highest score is 176.

Hardik Raj (Age: 18 years 44 days)

Hardik had an impressive 2024 season, playing for Shivamogga Lions in Karnataka's Maharaja T20 Trophy at the age of 16. A spin-bowling all-rounder, he bowls left-arm spin. In this year's Maharaja Trophy, he scored 155 runs in seven innings, including one fifty, with a strike rate of 180. He also claimed seven wickets.

Hardik represented India U19 in three ODIs during a home series against Australia last month, scoring 30 runs in one innings and taking five wickets. He has also played three Ranji Trophy matches for Karnataka.

C Andre Siddarth (Age: 18 years 80 days)

Siddarth, the nephew of former Tamil Nadu batter and selector S Sharath, has been making waves. He featured in the Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL) for the Chepauk Super Gillies and played in the Buchi Babu Invitational Tournament this year.

The middle-order batter has been in stellar form since earning a call-up to the Tamil Nadu Ranji squad. His scores include 38, 66*, 55*, 41, 94, and 78. He has also received his maiden call-up to the India U19 squad for the U19 Asia Cup, starting on November 30.

Kwena Maphaka (Age: 18 years 104 days)

The youngest overseas player on the list, Kwena Maphaka, is a South African U19 pace sensation who shone during this year's U19 World Cup with 21 wickets. He secured an IPL contract with Mumbai Indians (MI) last year, making two appearances and conceding 89 runs in six overs.

Since then, Maphaka has made his international debut, playing three T20Is for South Africa against the West Indies.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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Shami To Leave For Australia With Rohit For Border-Gavaskar Trophy: Report

Star India pacer Mohammed Shami has made a sensational comeback to competitive cricket. The right-arm pacer, who missed the action for around a year due to injury, played for Bengal in their recently-concluded Ranji Trophy match against Madhya Pradesh. Shami bowled 43.2 overs in the game and took seven wickets besides scoring a quickfire 36. Bengal went on to win the game by 11 runs. A fresh media report has claimed that Shami is set to be fast-tracked into India's Test squad.

A report in Dainik Bhaskar claimed that Shami is all set to be included in the India squad for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, starting November 22 in Perth. It added that Shami could fly to Australia with captain Rohit Sharma and both of them could join the team ahead of the first game. However, the report claimed that Shami's inclusion in the playing XI will be taken only after the match in Perth.

Shami showed remarkable performance on his first-class comeback to not only assure his boarding pass for the Australia series Down Under, but also guided Bengal to their first victory of this Ranji Trophy season against old nemesis Madhya Pradesh. Bengal in the last 15 years have always come a cropper against Madhya Pradesh.

But the presence of Shami certainly lifted the team's morale as Bengal defended a 338-run target by bowling out the hosts for 326 in the post-lunch session here on Saturday to clinch six points with an 11-run victory.

While grabbing 3 for 102 in 24.2 overs in the second innings, Shami removed former MI player Kumar Kartikeya much to the joy of the Bengal dressing room which was desperate for full points.

Bengal with 14 points are third in group C behind Haryana (20 points) and Kerala (18 points).

(With PTI Inputs)

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India U19 Star, Who Got Called For CSK Trials, Says This On MS Dhoni

Just a day after earning a coveted spot in India's Under-19 squad for the Asia Cup in the UAE, Mumbai's promising 17-year-old opener Ayush Mhatre smashed a commanding second first-class century, steering Mumbai to a strong position against Services on Day Two of their Elite Group A Ranji Trophy match at the Air Force ground at Palam here. The young batter scored 116 off 149 balls, studded with 12 boundaries and three sixes, giving the 43-time Ranji Trophy winner a 13-run lead in the match.

Mhatre also revealed his excitement about a call for trials with the senior talent scout of the Indian Premier League (IPL) giants Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and showed his interest in playing alongside legend Mahendra Singh Dhoni.

Reflecting on the call, Mhatre revealed to IANS that he had been approached by CSK for IPL trials— and showed his interest in playing with MS Dhoni. While acknowledging the prestigious chance to potentially don the yellow jersey alongside M.S. Dhoni, Mhatre remains focused on his immediate goals.

"Yes, I got a call from the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) talent scout team for the trials a few days back. I think I will go for the trials, but right now, my focus is on red-ball cricket. Since this is the last match of the first half of the Ranji Trophy season, I want to finish it on a high note," Mhatre said.

He added with hopeful excitement, "I can't say if I will be picked in the auction, but yes if I get a chance to play in the IPL for Chennai Super Kings, I will try to be productive for the franchise. Playing alongside Mahendra Singh Dhoni is every youngster's dream and it will be a dream come true for me. I haven't met him yet, but let's see what happens."

Mhatre's rise has been nothing short of remarkable. Earlier this season, he showcased his talent with a marathon innings of 176 against Maharashtra at the BKC Academy. His consistent performances have established him as a key player in Mumbai's batting lineup, and now, with his U-19 selection, he is on the cusp of greater opportunities.

Mumbai's innings began on a shaky note in their response to Services' total of 240. Opener Angkrish Raghuvanshi (1) and Siddhesh Lad (10) fell early to pacer Nitin Yadav, leaving the team reeling at 29 for two. The situation worsened when skipper Ajinkya Rahane (19) was bowled by Varun Choudhary, reducing Mumbai to a precarious 69 for three.

However, Mhatre anchored the innings, combining aggression with composure. He found valuable support from Shreyas Iyer, who contributed 47 off 46 balls. Together, they stitched a crucial 109-run partnership in just 104 balls, helping Mumbai regain their footing.

Meanwhile, Mumbai's pace bowling all-rounder Shardul Thakur delivered an impressive performance, taking four wickets to wrap up Services' innings. Thakur, overlooked by the national selectors for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, showcased his grit with figures of 4 for 46 in 19 overs. Services, who resumed their innings at 192 for six, folded for 240, with Mohit Ahlawat top-scoring with 76. Shams Mulani and Mohit Awasthi took two wickets each.

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Samson Scripts History, Becomes 1st Player Ever To Achieve Huge T20I Feat

Indian cricket team wicket-keeper batter Sanju Samson became the first player ever to score three T20I centuries in a calendar year following his sensational knock against South Africa on Friday. The India opener looked in phenomenal form as he ended up scoring off 109 just 56 balls with the help of 6 fours and 9 sixes in the fourth T20I. Samson started the four-matches series with a brilliant century but he was dismissed for a duck in the next two matches. However, that did not affect his form at all as he seemed completely in control against the South Africa bowlers on Friday and his brilliant knock took India to 283/1.

Centuries from Sanju Samson and Tilak Varma guide India towards a mammoth total#SAvIND : https://t.co/nCcnyy7c2U pic.twitter.com/BLjrRC9L6n

— ICC (@ICC) November 15, 2024

Sanju Samson's precision met its match in Tilak Varma's muscular elegance as India toyed with South African bowling attack to post an imposing 283 for 1 in the fourth and final T20 International. This is by far India's highest T20I total overseas and highest by any country on South African soil.

Among the plethora of records that tumbled, the most special one will be two Indian batters scoring centuries in same T20I innings. Samson and Varma also posted the highest partnership for India in T20 Internationals --- 210 off just 93 balls for the second wicket.

Samson (109 not out off 56 balls), who smashed a superb century in the first game, once again pummelled the Proteas in company of Varma (120 not out off 47 balls) who has really come into his own with new found confidence and vigour at number three.

Samson now has three T20I tons in the last five knocks which also included two ducks while Varma has scored back-to-back T20I tons.

Samson completed his ton in 51 balls while Varma's (41 balls) took 10 balls less.

Abhishek Sharma (36 off 18 balls) should also get his share of credit for upping the ante in the Powerplay with four huge sixes.

On a good batting track with true bounce on offer, Indian batters hit a record 23 sixes as it was possible to hit through the line by just clearing one's front leg. Samson's nine maximums was one less than Varma's 10.

It only helped India that the opposition's best fast bowler Gerald Coetzee seemed to be carrying a niggle. The two medium pacers Andile Simelane (0/47 in 3 overs) and Lutho Sipamla (1/58 in 4 overs) seemed like lambs for slaughter. The Indians hit 10 sixes from Simelane and Sipamla.

(With PTI inputs)

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India To Host Champions Trophy If Pakistan Pull Out? Big Claim By Report

The uncertainty over Champions Trophy 2025 is one that has kept the world cricket on tenterhooks. From the time, the BCCI informed the International Cricket Council (ICC) that it will not be travelling to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy, the future of the tournament is in doldrums. Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has also maintained a hard stance and has ruled out possibility of a 'hybrid model' where some matches, including India's, are played at a neutral ground. It has also written to the ICC seeking a written response on the reason behind India not agreeing to come to Pakistan. 

Among the places which were being discussed as the neutral venues were Sri Lanka, Dubai and South Africa. A PTI report claimed that there has been no recent discussion on South Africa as a venue. 

Now, a video report on Sports Tak has claimed that within the BCCI corridors, there has been a discussion that if Pakistan maintains its hard stance of not agreeing to a hybrid model and pulls out of the Champions Trophy, then the tournament can be hosted in India. The report further claimed that if Pakistan pulls out, then the ICC may have to pay huge compensation to the broadcasters as India vs Pakistan clash is a marquee match in any cricket event.  

The report added that this discussion is at an initial stage and nothing has been finalised yet. 

In the midst of this, Cricbuzz said that a 'key official' told the publication that the ICC could have been more proactive. 

The publication also gave a detailed reason. India have not been travelling to Pakistan, due to diplomatic issues, for a long time now. When the Champions Trophy schedule was shared with all, and well in advance, nobody raised an objection. Cricbuzz also said, no formal concerns were raised by the BCCI regarding the Champions Trophy in the 12 ICC Board meetings since then. 

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Kohli, Rohit Told To Hit 'Reset Button' By Aus Great: "Why They Failed..."

Former Australian pacer Brett Lee has advised India skipper Rohit Sharma and star batter Virat Kohli to hit the "reset button", work on their technique and hit the ground running in the five-Test series against Australia, beginning in Perth in less than 10 days' time. The two batting stalwarts will be keenly observed during the Border-Gavaskar series Down Under following their underwhelming performance in the 0-3 Test whitewash by New Zealand recently.

"When you have a couple of bad runs back to back, that's when the pressure gets set in. So, I guess the thing now is that someone like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, they've just got to go back to the drawing board," Lee said on his YouTube channel.

"They are champions because they do the basics better than anybody else. Then, just hit the reset button, almost." Lee also warned that the Australian pacers would be aiming to attack Rohit and Kohli with the new ball, and that they should quickly sort their batting.

"(They should) work on their technique, freshen up, get away from cricket for as much as they can and then hit the ground running when they go to Australia because I can promise you the Australian fast bowlers will be attacking Rohit Sharma with that brand-new ball," he added.

Rohit has managed 588 runs in 11 Tests at an average of just 29.40 this year, while Kohli has accumulated 250 runs in six Test at an average of 22.72.

Lee felt the tendency of the two batter to be too aggressive might have resulted in their poor show so far this year.

"It's hard to put your finger on why they (Rohit and Kohli) failed. If you first look at the way that Rohit Sharma got out, a lot to the quicks.

"So, I can't say there's a technical fault there because I've seen him play for the last decade. I still believe he's one of the best players of the pull shot in world cricket, but maybe he's a little bit too aggressive.

"Maybe there were a couple of shots... was there a technique issue? Was his bat leaving his pad a bit too early? Was he getting that far forward or not enough forward? Or, was he sort of being a little bit hesitant?" Lee wondered.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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U19 50-over Asia Cup: Mohammad Amaan To Lead India

Uttar Pradesh middle-order batter Mohammad Amaan will lead India in the 50-over ACC Under-19 Asia Cup, which will take place in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) later this month. India will open their campaign against Pakistan at Dubai on November 30. India have in their ranks some youngsters who have impressed in the domestic circuit like Mumbai's Ayush Mhatre, Bihar's Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Tamil Nadu's C Andre Siddarth, Kerala leg-spinner Mohammed Enaan and Karnataka batter Hardik Raj and state-mate Samarth Nagaraj.

Apart from India and Pakistan, the Group A features Japan and the hosts UAE. Group E will have Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan and Nepal.

Ahead of the tournament, India will take on Bangladesh in a practice match on November 26 in Sharjah.

The semifinals of the tournament are scheduled on December 6 while the final is slated for December 8.

India U19 squad: Ayush Mhatre, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, C Andre Siddarth, Mohammad Amaan (C), Kiran Chormale (VC), Pranav Pant, Harvansh Singh Pangalia (WK), Anurag Kawde (WK), Hardik Raj, Mohammad Enaan, KP Karthikeya, Samarth Nagaraj, Yudhajit Guha, Chetan Sharma, Nikhil Kumar.

Non-travelling reserves: Sahil Parakh, Naman Pushpak, Anmoljeet Singh, Pranav Raghavendra, D Dipesh.

India U19's schedule (All matches start at 10.30am IST)

November 30: India vs Pakistan at Dubai.

December 2: India vs Japan at Sharjah.

December 4: India vs UAE at Sharjah.

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KL Rahul Left LSG Because Of Goenka's 'Statement'? Star Breaks Silence

KL Rahul's separation from Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) was one of the major talking points about the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 retention phase ahead of the mega auction. Rahul and LSG parted ways after three years, with the batter revealing that he wanted to go back into the auction pool. Following the retention announcement, LSG owner Sanjiv Goenka had stated that the franchise retained players who they believed would put the team ahead of personal ambition.

"It was a simple mindset to go in for players, who have a mindset to win, who put the team before their personal goals and personal aspirations," Sanjiv Goenka said after LSG announced its set of retained players ahead of IPL 2025 auction.

On Tuesday, Rahul responded to these statements. When asked whether Goenka's statements had played a part in triggering Rahul's decision to part ways, the batter said that the decision had been made beforehand.

"The decision was made already. I don't know what the comments are but they must have come after the retentions were made. Just felt like I wanted to start fresh, I wanted to explore my options and I wanted to play somewhere I can find some freedom and team atmosphere would be something lighter, much more balanced, pressure is already very high in the IPL," said Rahul, in an interview to Star Sports.

Rahul had been LSG's captain in its first three years in the IPL. He amassed 616 runs in 2022, but that tally fell dramatically in an injury-driven 2023 campaign. In his three years at the franchise, Rahul's defensive approach came under intense scrutiny, with his strike rate being below 135 during the period.

Further in the interview, Rahul mentioned the need to maintain a balanced culture and team atmosphere within a franchise.

"I wanted to play in a team atmosphere where it is lighter. Dressing rooms like GT (Gujarat Titans) and CSK (Chennai Super Kings) seem balanced and calm even when they lose, and that is important to me as a player," said Rahul.

"We tried that at LSG with Andy Flower and GG (Gautam Gambhir) at first, and then with Justin Langer, and it was brilliant. But sometimes you have to move away and find something for yourself," said Rahul.

Rahul will go under the hammer in the IPL 2025 mega auction, which will be held on November 24 and 25.

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"Priority...": Cricket Australia CEO On Resting Stars For 3rd ODI vs Pak

Cricket Australia's CEO Nick Hockley has come out in defence of the selectors' decision to rest Australia's established Test players in the series-deciding third ODI loss against Pakistan in Perth. Australia's decision to rest top players in the final ODI against Pakistan has faced public criticism after the hosts succumbed to an 8-wicket defeat and an overall 2-1 series defeat on their turf after 22 years against Pakistan. Top stars, including pace trio Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc and established batters Steven Smith and Marnus Labuschagne, were all rested from the trip to Perth.

The decision was taken to ensure players remained fit before the Border Gavaskar Trophy despite an 11-day gap between the final ODI and the opening Test, which is also in Perth.

The first delivery of the highly-anticipated series between Australia and India will be bowled in Perth on November 22.

The historical data suggests that Australia's quicks are at risk of sustaining an injury of a one-day break with a lengthy flight, which was the case in the third ODI. The most recent example of it was visible during their UK tour when Australia lost six pacers to injury.

Hockley stated that the decision to rest their star players was taken in the best interest of the overall priorities for the schedule that lies ahead of them.

"The amount of planning and work that goes into squad selection and preparation across three formats it is incredible in the detail they go to," Hockley said at the MCG on Tuesday, as quoted from ESPNcricinfo.

"Certainly, in terms of the Test players, we want to get them through what's effectively seven Test matches, kind of back to back, and then for the all-format players into the Champions Trophy. It was felt on this occasion it was in the best interest of the overall priorities for the summer that they miss out on the third ODI," he added.

With Australia set to square off against India in a white-ball series next year before the Ashes, all eyes will fall upon CA's approach for the series.

Lessons that Australia learned from the last week will be in mind when CA finalises the schedule for the India series next summer, according to Hockley.

"I think we will have a look at that. I think what this schedule has really shone a spotlight on is that the travel schedule into such a big series is critical again. This is about thinking ahead and getting players through in the best possible condition," Hockley said.

"So, yeah, as we look to the schedule for next year, we'll get right into the detail to make sure that the travel schedule is optimised so we can continue to put our best possible XI on the field," he noted.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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"Nothing To Do With Me": Gambhir's Blunt Reply To Reporter On Samson Query

India head coach Gautam Gambhir might be preparing to help the Rohit Sharma-led Indian team in Australia but he also has one eye on what is happening in South Africa where the Suryakumar Yadav-led Indian team is engaged in a 3-match T20I series. Speaking to the media ahead of his flight to Australia, Gambhir encountered a rather unrelated question when the topic of Sanju Samson's performances in South Africa came up. Though Gambhir is the head coach of India's T20I team too, VVS Laxman has been given the boys' charge in the Rainbow Nation at the moment.

As a reporter credited Gambhir for Samson's performances, the head coach refused to take any credit.

"Not at all; I think it's nothing to do with me. I think it's his ability. It was all about giving him the right number and backing him. I think ultimately it's his hard work. What he is doing for Indian cricket is just the start; it's not the end. Hopefully, he can continue taking this form forward," Gambhir said in the press conference.

"For me, I think the good sign is that some of the young players are really coming through, which is always healthy and good for Indian cricket," he added.

Samson scored a century in the first match of the series, becoming the first Indian in history to record two consecutive tons in the shortest format in international cricket. However, he couldn't follow it up in the second T20I, incurring a duck.

Gambhir is now focused on the next task at hand, which is the 5-match Border-Gavaskar Trophy, a solid show in that would also help India's World Test Championship final hopes.

"We have got a lot of experienced players who have been to Australia a lot many times. Their experience will come in handy for the young players as well. These 10 days are going to be very crucial but come the 22nd morning, we should be absolutely ready and ready to fire from ball one," he said.

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"Took Us 22 Years...": Pak Great's Emotional Reaction To Aus Series Victory

Former Pakistan cricket team fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar was all praise for the youngsters as Pakistan registered a historic ODI series victory over Australia. Pakistan won the final ODI encounter by 8 wickets to clinch the three-match series 2-1 to register their first ODI series win on Australian soil in 22 years. Akhtar praised fast bowlers Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf and Naseem Shah for their impressive performances and recalled his experiences of 2002 - the last time when Pakistan won in Australia.

"Outstanding win. After 22 years, we won against Australia. In 2002, I remember I was there. We had won a series in Gabba, and it took us 22 years for the players to win the series. And they did an amazing job. They played really well. There was an attitude change. Rizwan changed the attitude. Naseem, Haris, Shaheen. All of them played really well and at the same time they did a comprehensively good job," Akhtar said on his YouTube channel.

Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan praised bowlers for their 2-1 ODI series win over Australia after beating Australia by eight wickets in the third and final match at Perth Stadium on Sunday.

This was Pakistan's first ODI series win over the hosts in 22 years. Chasing a modest 141 target, Pakistan openers, Saim Ayub (42) and Abdullah Shafique (37) added 84-run partnership for the first wicket. Rizwan (30 not out) and Babar Azam (28 not out) knitted an unbroken 58-run partnership for the third wicket to take the side over the line in 26.5 overs.

Earlier, after being put into bat, Australia were bowled out for 140 in 31.5 overs. Sean Abbott (30) was the top run-getter for the losing side. Left-arm pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah bagged three scalps each while Haris Rauf ended up taking two wickets.

"Special moment for me, the nation will be very happy today, we didn't perform as per expectations in the last couple of years. I'm the captain only for the toss and presentations - everyone gives me suggestions on the field, the batting group and the bowling group," Rizwan said in the post-match presentation.

"All the credit to the bowlers, Australia in Australia isn't easy, the conditions suit their style of playing, but the bowlers were outstanding. Also credit to the two openers, they made the chases easy. They (fans) don't care a lot about the results, but the people back home are always behind us and I want to dedicate this victory to them," the wicketkeeper-batter added.

(With IANS inputs)

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