Tag: BGT 2024-25

  • Travis Head rubs salt on India’s WTC and ODI WC agony with an Instagram story after Australia’s BGT victory

    Travis Head rubs salt on India’s WTC and ODI WC agony with an Instagram story after Australia’s BGT victory

    The recent Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 series saw Australia reclaim a title that had eluded them for nearly a decade, with Travis Head emerging as a standout performer. His contributions were pivotal in securing a 3-1 series victory over India, a team that had previously dominated their encounters. However, Head’s celebratory antics following the win have drawn significant backlash on social media, as he seemingly rubbed salt into the wounds of Indian cricket fans still reeling from multiple recent defeats.

    A series to remember for Travis Head

    The Border-Gavaskar Trophy was a rollercoaster ride for both teams. Australia, after suffering a heavy 295-run defeat in the opening Test in Perth, rebounded spectacularly. They won the next three Tests in Adelaide, Melbourne, and Sydney, showcasing their resilience and determination. Head was instrumental in this turnaround, finishing as the series’ leading run-scorer with an impressive 448 runs, including two centuries. His performances not only helped Australia regain the trophy but also secured their place in the World Test Championship final against South Africa.

    Head’s aggressive batting style was on full display throughout the series. After his initial setback, he scored a magnificent 140 in Adelaide and followed it up with a remarkable 152 in Brisbane. His ability to dominate Indian bowlers became a recurring theme, earning him accolades and further solidifying his status as a nemesis for India.

    Also READ: AUS vs IND: Cricket Australia accepts mistake after Sunil Gavaskar robbed off presenting BGT Trophy to the winning team

    Mockery or celebration from Head?

    Following Australia’s victory, Head took to social media to share his triumph. He posted an Instagram reel that included highlights of Australia’s recent wins over India in the World Test Championship and ODI World Cup, captioning it with “It feels right”—a remark that many interpreted as mocking. Additionally, he shared an image of himself with his finger in juice, a gesture reminiscent of an earlier controversy involving Rishabh Pant during the Boxing Day Test. This prompted outrage among Indian fans who felt that Head’s actions were disrespectful and insensitive given the context of their team’s struggles.

    The backlash was swift and severe. Social media platforms were flooded with comments criticizing Head for his perceived arrogance and lack of sportsmanship. Fans pointed out that while celebrating victories is part of sports culture, mocking opponents—especially those who have faced recent defeats—crosses a line. The sentiment echoed through various discussions online, highlighting how competitive spirit can sometimes be overshadowed by unsportsmanlike behaviour.

    The bigger picture

    Head’s antics have reignited discussions about sportsmanship in cricket. While celebrating victories is natural for athletes, it is crucial to maintain respect for opponents who are also striving for excellence. The Border-Gavaskar Trophy series not only showcased Australia’s resurgence but also reflected on India’s struggles, which included failing to qualify for the World Test Championship final due to this series loss.

    Also READ: Here’s how Australia have performed against each cricketing nation in their recent Test encounters



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  • AUS vs IND: Australia head coach opens up on Sam Konstas’ fiery on-field altercation with Indian players in the Sydney Test

    AUS vs IND: Australia head coach opens up on Sam Konstas’ fiery on-field altercation with Indian players in the Sydney Test

    The intense atmosphere surrounding the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 was palpable at the Sydney Cricket Ground as Indian players and Australia’s Sam Konstas found themselves at the center of a fiery exchange. Following a heated confrontation between Konstas and Indian captain Jasprit Bumrah, along with opener Yashasvi Jaiswal. Amid the escalating on-field drama, Australia’s head coach, Andrew McDonald, was quick to address the incident in a post-match comment.

    Australia head coach seeks clarification over Indian players’ stance on Sam Konstas

    Australia’s head coach, McDonald, stated that since no charges, fines, or punishments were imposed on the Indian team, their behavior is considered acceptable. He added that it is up to the match referee to decide whether the behavior is acceptable.

    Considering there has been no charges on Indian team, clearly it’s acceptable behaviour because there was no fines or punishments. It’s upto match referee, if this is acceptable behaviour or not,” McDonald was quoted as saying by The Indian Express.

    McDonald, mentioned that he spoke with Konstas to check on him after the intimidating Indian celebration, where the team surrounded him. McDonald wanted to ensure Konstas was okay.

    My conversation with Sam was about checking in with him. Clearly the Indian celebration was intimidating, with all of them Swarming in. So just wanted to make sure he’s okay,” said the Australian head coach.

    Also WATCH: Sam Konstas hits an audacious reverse ramp against Jasprit Bumrah on Day 2 of the SCG Test

    Sam Konstas’ dismissal in the Sydney Test

    In the 12th over of Australia’s innings when Mohammed Siraj dismissed Konstas in a thrilling moment. Konstas, who had made a solid start, was caught by Jaiswal at gully after playing an ill-advised drive to a full ball outside off stump. The Indian team erupted in jubilation as Jaiswal claimed the catch, flinging the ball high into the air in celebration. The Indian players gathered around, and the noise from the crowd reflected the intensity of the moment. However, the Australian crowd responded with boos, signaling their disapproval of the dismissal and the exuberant celebration that followed.

    Konstas, who had been playing with determination, was dismissed for 23 runs off 38 balls, with three boundaries to his name. The departure of the Australian debutant brought a wave of mixed emotions, as the Indian players celebrated fiercely.

    Also WATCH: ‘Oye Konstas’ – Yashasvi Jaiswal sledges Sam Konstas on Day 2 of SCG Test

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  • WATCH: Rishabh Pant shows his grit by taking body blows in Sydney Test, video goes viral

    WATCH: Rishabh Pant shows his grit by taking body blows in Sydney Test, video goes viral

    The fifth Test of the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT 2024-25) at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) witnessed wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant take multiple blows on his body for the nation. The visitors who entered the SCG Test following a defeat in Melbourne were trailing 2-1 in the series.

    Notably, Rohit Sharma dropped himself from the playing XI with Jasprit Bumrah taking up the captaincy duties. Batting first, India struggled early, with KL Rahul, Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill falling cheaply. Rishabh Pant walked to the crease after lunch to steady the wobbling ship.

    Rishabh Pant took on the Australian bowling attack and absorbed multiple body blows, reminiscent of Cheteshwar Pujara’s determination. Starc’s short-pitched deliveries struck Pant on the bicep, helmet, and shoulder. In the 35th over a sharp delivery struck his arm, causing immediate bruising and requiring on-field treatment.

    Also Read: Watch: Washington Sundar dejected after contentious DRS dismissal in Sydney Test

    Despite the discomfort, Pant stayed at the crease and continued his innings. He smashed the debutant Beau Webster for a six and executed a backcut off Nathan Lyon. His innings of 40 off 98 balls included three boundaries and one six. Pant’s knock came to an end against Boland, whose short-pitched delivery hit the batter’s toe end giving Pat Cummins an easy catch at short cover. His dismissal left India precariously placed at 120/6.

    Check out Rishabh Pant’s grit here:

    India bowled out cheaply in first innings of Sydney Test

    The tourist’s innings came to an end after 72.2 overs and managing to put 185 runs on the board. Pant was India’s only batter to score more than 30, with next best being Ravindra Jadeja’s 26.  For the Aussies, Boland was the pick of the bowlers, claiming a four-wicket haul, along with Starc and Cummins sharing five wickets between them.

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  • Breakdown of Mitchell Marsh’s IPL salary since debut

    Breakdown of Mitchell Marsh’s IPL salary since debut

    Australian selectors have excluded all-rounder Mitchell Marsh from the playing XI for the fifth and final Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 against India at the Sydney Cricket Ground. The match, commencing on January 3, marks a disappointing turn for the reigning Allan Border Medal winner after a lackluster series.

    Mitchell Marsh’s struggles in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy

    Marsh endured a challenging series, scoring just 73 runs in seven innings at an average of 10.42. His highest score was 47 in the first Test in Perth, with his performance declining significantly in subsequent matches. Adding to his woes, Marsh bowled only 13 overs across the last three Tests without claiming a single wicket, prompting widespread criticism from fans and pundits.

    Career highlights and IPL statistics

    Despite these struggles, Marsh’s talent and contributions to cricket remain undeniable, particularly in the Indian Premier League (IPL), where he has built a unique legacy. Marsh’s IPL career has spanned 42 matches, yielding 665 runs, including three half-centuries, and 37 wickets. Despite injuries hampering his consistency, his performances have showcased glimpses of brilliance, particularly during his time with Delhi Capitals.

    Also READ: No Mitchell Marsh in Australia’s playing XI for the SCG Test against India; replacement announced

    Marsh’s salary in the Indian Premier League

    1. Deccan Chargers (2010)

    At just 19 years old, Marsh began his IPL career with the Deccan Chargers before making his international debut. He played three matches, scoring 28 runs and taking two wickets.

    Salary

    2. Pune Warriors (2011-13)

    Marsh joined Pune Warriors in 2011, where he played five matches, scoring 50 runs and taking seven wickets. After missing the 2012 season due to a back injury, he returned in 2013, playing nine matches, scoring 140 runs, and claiming seven wickets.

    Salary

    • 2011: INR 1,33,40,000
    • 2012: INR 14,578,300
    • 2013: INR 1,54,48,300

    3. Rising Pune Supergiants (2016-17)

    In 2016, Marsh played for Rising Pune Supergiants but managed only three matches, scoring seven runs and taking four wickets.

    Salary

    • 2016: INR 4,80,00,000
    • 2017: INR 4,80,00,000

    4. Sunrisers Hyderabad (2020-21)

    Marsh joined Sunrisers Hyderabad in 2020 but played only one match before an injury sidelined him. He did not score any runs or take wickets. He opted out of the 2021 season.

    Salary

    • 2020: INR 2,00,00,000
    • 2021: Opted out

    5. Delhi Capitals (2022-24)

    Marsh enjoyed a resurgence with Delhi Capitals, delivering standout performances. In 2022, he scored 251 runs, including two half-centuries, and took four wickets. In 2023, he was DC’s leading bowler, taking 12 wickets in nine matches while scoring 128 runs. However, injuries returned in 2024, limiting him to four matches, 61 runs, and one wicket.

    Salary

    • 2022: INR 6,50,00,000
    • 2023: INR 6,50,00,000
    • 2024: INR 6,50,00,000

    6. Lucknow Super Giants (2025)

    In the IPL 2025 mega auction, Marsh was snapped up by the Lucknow Super Giants. Fans are optimistic about his potential role as an opener, leveraging his all-round abilities to boost the team’s prospects.

    Salary

    Also READ: Gujarat Titans to remove Shubman Gill from captaincy? GT’s New Year post featuring Rashid Khan sparks speculation ahead of IPL 2025

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  • AUS vs IND: Indian captain Rohit Sharma comes under fire for shifting blame on youngsters following MCG Test loss

    AUS vs IND: Indian captain Rohit Sharma comes under fire for shifting blame on youngsters following MCG Test loss

    In the aftermath of India‘s disappointing 184-run defeat to Australia in the Melbourne Test, captain Rohit Sharma has found himself at the center of a storm of criticism. His comments during the post-match press conference, particularly regarding the performance of younger players, have sparked outrage among fans and cricket analysts alike. As India trail 1-2 in the five-match Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25, the pressure is mounting on Rohit to lead both on and off the field.

    The weight of leadership on Rohit Sharma

    Rohit’s remarks in the press conference after the MCG Test, suggesting that the young players “will learn as they keep playing,” have been interpreted by many as an attempt to deflect responsibility from himself and his senior teammates.

    We got plenty of chances to win or even draw the game. But there are many guys who scored runs, but could have played a big innings. The guys are new and they will learn as they keep playing,” Rohit stated, emphasizing that new players need to convert their starts into significant scores

    This statement has not only frustrated fans but has also drawn sharp criticism from former players who believe that Rohit should take accountability for the team’s failures.

    Also READ: Top 5 most wickets by an Indian bowler in a calendar year ft. Jasprit Bumrah

    The fallout from Melbourne

    The loss at the Melbourne Cricket Ground was not just another defeat; it marked a significant setback for India, who were aiming for a historic hat-trick of Test series victories on Australian soil. After bowling Australia out in their second innings, India had a golden opportunity to chase down a target of 340 runs. However, they crumbled under pressure, losing their last seven wickets for just 34 runs. Rohit admitted that his team failed to capitalize on favourable conditions, calling it “mentally disturbing” and expressing disappointment over their inability to fight back.

    Criticism from all corners

    The backlash against Rohit has been swift and severe. Former cricketer Irfan Pathan pointed out that Rohit’s current form is underwhelming, suggesting that had he not been captain, he might not even be in the playing XI.

    If we talk about reality, considering how he is struggling with the bat, there might not have been a place for him in the playing XI. But because he is the captain, and you want to win the next match to draw the series, he stays in the team,” Pathan said on a Star Sports’ post match show.

    Fans took to social media to voice their discontent, with many accusing him of “throwing youngsters under the bus” instead of taking responsibility for his own batting failures and leadership decisions. This sentiment was echoed by cricket pundits who argue that as captain, Rohit should shoulder more blame rather than shifting it onto less experienced players.

    Rishabh Pant’s struggles with form and temperament

    Rohit also addressed Rishabh Pant‘s performance, particularly criticizing his rash shot selection during crucial moments. Pant’s dismissal in both innings raised eyebrows, leading Rohit to state that Pant must understand what is required of him in high-pressure situations. While acknowledging Pant’s potential, Rohit emphasized that it is essential for him to adapt his game according to the match context.

    It [Pant’s dismissal] just happened, there hasn’t been any discussion about today. Obviously we’ve lost the game, everybody is disappointed about how things panned out … But again, look, Rishabh Pant obviously he needs to understand what is required from himself. More than any one of us telling him, it’s about him understanding and figuring out what’s the right way to go about it. In the past, he has given us lot of success doing what he does. As a captain, there’s a kind of mixed reaction to that,” Indian skipper concluded.

    With this, India will now prepare for the final Test in Sydney on January 3, the focus will be on how Rohit can rally his team and address these criticisms head-on. With Australia aiming to seal their spot in the World Test Championship final with a victory, India must regroup and find a way to level the series. The upcoming match will not only test Rohit’s leadership but also determine whether he can inspire confidence in his young squad amid mounting pressure.

    Also READ: 3 key reasons behind Team India’s loss against Australia in the Boxing Day Test

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  • Who is Sharfuddoula Saikat? All you need to know about third umpire who adjudicated Yashasvi Jaiswal’s debatable decision

    Who is Sharfuddoula Saikat? All you need to know about third umpire who adjudicated Yashasvi Jaiswal’s debatable decision

    The third umpire of the fourth Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Sharfuddoula Saikat, caused a stir with his decision-making on Day 5 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). The 48-year-old Bangladeshi third umpire made a debatable decision as India’s opener Yashasvi Jaiswal was given out caught behind despite there being no spike on the snickometer.

    At that stage, the Indian team still had a chance to draw the match with Jaiswal at the crease. The Indian batter was given not out by on-field umpire Joel Wilson and the Australians chose to review straightaway. While there was no spike detected by the snickometer Saikat noticed a deflection and overruled the decision which saw the back of Jaiswal and the dashing of India’s hopes of saving the Test match.

    Saikat started his journey as a player and was more than a capable left-arm spinner. He also played three matches for Bangladesh during the 1994 ICC Trophy which was a tournament to ensure qualification for the World Cup. The Dhaka-born had some decent performances during this tournament, picking up six wickets at an average of 18.66 and an economy of 4.17. Apart from this, he had a short but decent first-class record as well with 31 wickets from 10 matches averaging 23, and having two five-wicket hauls to his name.

    Also Read: ‘This is an optical illusion’- Gavaskar disagrees with third umpire’s decision to give Yashasvi Jaiswal out

    Though Saikat could not play more international games he turned his attention to umpiring. He has officiated in both Men’s and Women’s international games. Saikat has umpired in 15 Tests, 63 ODIs, 52 T20Is, 13 WODIs, and 28 WT20Is as an on-field umpire and was part of the 2023 Women’s U-19 World Cup and 2023 ODI World Cup, too.

    Saikat replaced legendary South African umpire Marais Erasmus to become the first Bangladeshi umpire to become a part of the ICC Elite Panel of Umpires.

    Saikat also has an MBA degree in Human Resource Management from American University-Bangladesh. 

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  • WATCH: Commentators go gaga over Sam Konstas’ stunning reverse scoop six off Jasprit Bumrah in AUS vs IND 4th Test

    WATCH: Commentators go gaga over Sam Konstas’ stunning reverse scoop six off Jasprit Bumrah in AUS vs IND 4th Test

    In a thrilling display of youthful exuberance, 19-year-old Australia batter Sam Konstas made headlines during his Test debut at the Boxing Day Test against India. Facing the formidable Jasprit Bumrah, Konstas showcased a bold T20-style approach in his blistering knock of 60 runs that left commentators and fans alike in awe.

    The stage was set at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) as Konstas walked out to open the innings. The young debutant faced an uphill battle against Bumrah, who has long been regarded as one of the best fast bowlers in the world. After a cautious start, where he struggled to connect with two attempted ramp shots, Konstas finally found his rhythm in the seventh over. He executed a brilliant reverse ramp shot over the wicketkeeper’s head for four runs, followed by an audacious six that sent shockwaves through the stadium.

    Commentators were left speechless by his audacity. Mark Waugh exclaimed, “I cannot believe this,” while Ravi Shastri remarked on how Konstas had effectively unsettled Bumrah, a strategy that seemed to pay off handsomely. “He has done well to unsettle Bumrah and so far it has worked for Konstas”, Shastri said.

    The crowd erupted in cheers as Konstas continued to attack, finishing the over with two boundaries and a total of 16 runs – Bumrah’s highest concession in recent memory.

    Also WATCH: Virat Kohli and Sam Konstas exchanged heated words after shoulder bump on Day 1 of the Melbourne Test

    Here’s the video:

    A historic moment for Konstas

    Konstas’ achievement was not just about runs; it was historic in nature. By hitting Bumrah for a six, he became the first batter since Cameron Green in 2021 to achieve this feat against the Indian pacer, who had gone an astonishing 4483 deliveries without conceding a six in Test matches. This remarkable statistic underscores the significance of Konstas’ performance and positions him as a player to watch in future matches.

    The debutant’s fearless approach has drawn comparisons to the “Bazball” style of cricket popularized by England under coach Brendon McCullum. Waugh noted that Konstas had clearly formulated a plan against Bumrah, despite initially keeping it under wraps.

    The reactions from seasoned commentators were telling of the impact Konstas made with the bat. Adam Gilchrist praised his ability to take on one of the world’s best bowlers with such confidence at such a young age.

    “He had said that he has got a plan against Jasprit Bumrah, but didn’t reveal it. This might be his way of taking down Bumrah,” Gilchrist concluded. The consensus among experts was clear: Konstas’ performance was not merely an anomaly but rather indicative of a new generation of cricketers who are unafraid to challenge traditional norms.

    Also READ: AUS vs IND: Here’s why Shubman Gill not playing Boxing Day Test match against Australia



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  • Sachin Tendulkar, Kapil Dev call Ravichandran Ashwin after international retirement

    Sachin Tendulkar, Kapil Dev call Ravichandran Ashwin after international retirement

    One of India’s greatest spinners, Ravichandran Ashwin recently retired from international cricket, ending his 14-year-long career. With 765 wickets across all formats, Ashwin has contributed to numerous victories for India. After his retirement announcement, he revealed that he received congratulatory calls from legends Sachin Tendulkar and Kapil Dev, something he claimed would have given him a heart attack 25 years ago.

    Ashwin’s announcement came as a shock to many, as it was made during the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT 2024-25) in Australia. The 38-year-old spinner brought the curtains down on a career that spanned over a decade, including 106 Tests, 116 ODIs, and 65 T20Is. He revealed his decision was instinctive and walked away with zero regrets.

    The retirement, though, sparked controversy, with his father claiming Ravichandran Ashwin faced humiliation in the team. The cricketer, however, dismissed the comments as dad statements. Ashwin shared a screenshot of his call log on X (formerly Twitter), expressing his disbelief at receiving calls from two of India’s biggest cricket icons.

     “If some one told me 25 years ago that I would have a smart phone with me and the call log on the last day of my career as an Indian cricketer would look like this, I would have had a heart attack then only. Thanks Sachin Tendulkar and Kapil Dev paaji #blessed,” Ashwin wrote.

    Ashwin, I’ve always admired how you approached the game: Sachin Tendulkar

    Former India legend Sachin Tendulkar had earlier praised Ravichandran Ashwin’s ability to evolve and adapt. The former took it to his social media platform to congratulate the player on having such a successful career.

    Also Read: ‘Your legacy will inspire one and all’ – Sachin Tendulkar pays tribute to Ravichandran Ashwin

    “Ashwin, I’ve always admired how you approached the game with your mind and heart in perfect sync. From perfecting the carrom ball to contributing crucial runs, you always found a way to win. Watching you grow from a promising talent to one of India’s finest match-winners has been wonderful. Your journey shows that true greatness lies in never being afraid to experiment and evolve,” Tendulkar wrote.

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  • Rohit Sharma given time till Sydney!! Swords Hanging over Virat Kohli if India fail WTC final qualification

    Rohit Sharma given time till Sydney!! Swords Hanging over Virat Kohli if India fail WTC final qualification

    The ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 could be the last series for India’s big four in Test cricket. After Ravichandran Ashwin, three more senior players could retire at the end of this series if things don’t go their way.

    The three senior players are Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravindra Jadeja. All these players, alongside Ashwin, have served Indian cricket for more than a decade now. But recently, their form has been under the scanner.

    While Jadeja played a vital knock with the bat in the last Test at Gabba, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have been going through one of the worst phases of their career. Both of them have been troubled by Australian bowlers throughout the series so far.

    Also read: Inside details of Virat Kohli’s fight with Australian Media at Airport leaked

    Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Ravindra Jadeja to retire after BGT 2024-25?

    According to Dainik Jagran, Rohit Sharma needs to bat exceptionally well in the remaining innings of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. If he doesn’t score runs in the last two Tests, he is likely to hang up his boots.

    Meanwhile, the report also claimed that the trio of Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravindra Jadeja will retire after the fifth Test of the series at Sydney if India doesn’t make it to the World Test Championship (WTC) Final next year.

    Constant failures of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli

    Rohit Sharma missed the first Test of the series due to the birth of his second child. In his absence, Jasprit Bumrah led the team and took India to an emphatic win with an exceptional performance with the ball.

    Rohit became available from the second Test but demoted himself to the No. 6 spot from his usual opening position. However, he still looked woefully out of form. In two Tests of the series so far, he has scored just 19 runs at an average of 6.33.

    Meanwhile, Virat Kohli too hasn’t been in great form with the bat. The 36-year-old has scored just 126 runs in three Tests so far at an average of 31.50. He scored a brilliant hundred in the second innings of the Perth Test but has otherwise looked all at sea to the ball at the fourth and fifth stump.

    Pressure on Ravindra Jadeja after Ravichandran Ashwin’s retirement

    Allrounder Ravindra Jadeja has played just one Test so far and is likely to keep his place for the Boxing Day Test as well. Jadeja scored 77 runs in the only innings he batted but was not penetrative enough with the ball returning figures of 0-95 in 23 overs.

    With the retirement of his long-time spin bowling partner Ravichandran Ashwin, the pressure will be on Jadeja as well. Team India is going through a transition period and Washington Sundar is knocking on the door hard to become India’s first-choice spinner in Tests.



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  • WATCH: Ravindra Jadeja brings out his trademark sword celebration after hitting a gritty fifty on Day 4 of Gabba Test – AUS vs IND

    WATCH: Ravindra Jadeja brings out his trademark sword celebration after hitting a gritty fifty on Day 4 of Gabba Test – AUS vs IND

    In a riveting display of resilience and skill, Indian star Ravindra Jadeja has once again captured the hearts of cricket fans worldwide with his trademark sword celebration after reaching a gritty half-century on Day 4 of the Gabba Test against Australia. The moment was not just about personal achievement but also about showcasing the never-say-die spirit of the Indian veteran star.

    A gritty half-ton under pressure

    The match at the Gabba, known for its notoriously challenging conditions for visiting teams, has been a battleground where every run is fought hard. Jadeja, coming back into the playing XI after missing the first two Tests, demonstrated his value by standing firm when the team needed him the most. His fifty, his 22nd in Test cricket, was crucial in a situation where India was looking to stabilize their innings and avoid the follow-on.

    Jadeja’s innings was not just about the numbers; it was about the context. Facing an Australian attack on a pitch that was offering assistance to the bowlers, Jadeja played both defensively and aggressively, ensuring that the scoreboard kept ticking while also putting pressure back on the opposition. His partnership with KL Rahul, whose gritty performance was trending on social media, helped India navigate through a tricky phase of the game.

    Also WATCH: AUS vs IND – Rohit Sharma taunts Akash Deep in frustration during Day 3 of the Third Test

    The iconic sword celebration

    Upon reaching his fifty, Jadeja performed his well-known sword celebration, a gesture that has become as iconic as his all-round abilities on the field. This celebration, where he swings his bat like a sword, is not just a personal trademark but also resonates with fans as a symbol of his warrior-like approach to cricket.

    The celebration has its roots in Jadeja’s Rajput heritage, symbolizing courage and valor, traits that he embodies on the cricket pitch. Each time he brings out this celebration, it’s a moment of joy for fans, a sign that he’s not just playing the game but dominating it with his unique flair.

    Here is the video:

    Also READ: AUS vs IND: Isa Guha offers apology over her controversial comment on Jasprit Bumrah during Gabba Test



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