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Tag: India tour of Australia 2024-25

  • 4 international captains who dropped themselves from the playing XI ft. Rohit Sharma

    4 international captains who dropped themselves from the playing XI ft. Rohit Sharma

    In a rare and bold decision, India’s Test captain Rohit Sharma dropped himself from the playing XI for the fifth and final Test against Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). The announcement surprised fans and experts when Jasprit Bumrah stepped out for the toss instead of Rohit.

    Here’s a look at Rohit’s self-removal and three other international captains dropping themselves from the playing XI:

    4. Rohit Sharma (India)

    Rohit’s decision to sit out the final Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25 came after a series of underwhelming performances. In the three Tests he played, Rohit managed to score only 31 runs in five innings, which likely prompted his self-removal to allow Shubman Gill to step in. Notably, Rohit became the first Indian skipper to drop himself from the playing XI, marking a significant moment in Indian cricket history.

    3. Misbah-ul-Haq (Pakistan)

    Misbah-ul-Haq
    Misbah-ul-Haq

    In 2014, Pakistan’s ODI skipper Misbah-ul-Haq decided to drop himself during the series against Australia after facing sharp criticism for his lack of form. Misbah scored just 0 and 15 in the first two ODIs and subsequently opted out of the third and final match. Shahid Afridi took over as captain, but Pakistan lost the game and the series.

    Also READ: Top 5 players with the most international catches in 2024 ft. Rohit Sharma

    2. Dinesh Chandimal (Sri Lanka)

    Dinesh Chandimal
    Dinesh Chandimal

    During the 2014 T20 World Cup, Sri Lanka’s captain Dinesh Chandimal made a strategic decision to sit out the knockout games. This move allowed Lasith Malinga to lead the team, and the change proved successful as Sri Lanka defeated India in the final to clinch the trophy. Chandimal’s selfless decision remains one of the most discussed captaincy moves in T20 cricket.

    1. Mike Denness (England)

    Mike Denness
    Mike Denness

    England’s Mike Denness dropped himself during the 1974-75 Ashes series in Australia after struggling with form. England had already suffered heavy losses in the first two Tests and managed a draw in the third. Denness, short of runs, chose to step aside for the fourth Test, handing over the captaincy to Tony Greig. However, the move did not change England’s fortunes as they lost the match and eventually the series. Denness returned for the fifth Test but failed to turn things around.

    Also READ: Top 5 best bowling figures in Test cricket in 2024 ft. Washington Sundar

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  • AUS vs IND: Gautam Gambhir spills beans on dressing room leaks and Rohit Sharma’s status for the final Test

    AUS vs IND: Gautam Gambhir spills beans on dressing room leaks and Rohit Sharma’s status for the final Test

    Gautam Gambhir, the head coach of the Indian cricket team, has recently made headlines by addressing the swirling rumours of unrest within the squad. As India prepare for the fifth and final Test against Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), Gambhir’s remarks during a press conference have brought clarity to the team’s internal dynamics and highlighted his approach to leadership.

    Gautam Gambhir emphasises on the importance of privacy in team discussions

    In a firm stance against public speculation, Gambhir emphasized that discussions held within the dressing room should remain confidential. He described debates and discussions as natural elements of any team environment but insisted that they should not be leaked to the media.

    “Debates and discussions are natural in any team, but they should not become public knowledge. These are just reports, not the truth,” he stated during the pre-match press conference of SCG Test, dismissing reports of discord as mere “speculation” and “not the truth”. This assertion underscores his belief that unity and discretion are vital for maintaining team morale and focus.

    Gambhir’s comments come in light of recent criticisms regarding the performance of senior players, particularly captain Rohit Sharma and veteran batter Virat Kohli. He also mentioned that his conversations with senior batters have solely revolved around strategies for winning Test matches.

    “Every individual knows what are areas to work on. We have only had one conversation with them (and that is) how to win Test matches,” Gambhir added.

    The coach reiterated that individual performances are crucial for securing a place in the playing XI, stating, “Indian cricket will be in safe hands till honest people stay in the dressing room. Only thing that keeps you in the dressing room is performance,“. His emphasis on accountability reflects a shift towards a merit-based selection process, which he believes will strengthen the team’s overall performance.

    Also READ: AUS vs IND: Gautam Gambhir engages in a fiery outburst with players after India’s defeat in the 4th Test – Reports

    Rohit Sharma’s future: A question mark ahead of SCG Test

    As speculation mounts about Rohit’s inclusion in the upcoming Test, Gambhir remained non-committal. When asked about Rohit’s position, he explained that decisions regarding the playing XI would be made after assessing pitch conditions closer to match day.

    “We will take the Playing XI call after looking at the pitch tomorrow,” he confirmed. This cautious approach indicates Gambhir’s strategic mindset, prioritizing adaptability based on real-time conditions.

    Rohit’s form has been under scrutiny, with many questioning his leadership capabilities amid declining personal performance. Gambhir’s handling of this situation is critical, as it not only affects Rohit’s standing but also impacts team dynamics leading into a decisive match against Australia. The pressure is palpable; a strong performance is essential for both Rohit and the team to regain momentum in the series, which currently sees India trailing 2-1.

    A call for honesty and performance-driven culture

    Gambhir’s leadership philosophy centers around honesty and transparency within the team framework. He acknowledged having had “honest conversations” with players about their roles and responsibilities but clarified that these discussions are strictly focused on strategies for winning matches rather than personal grievances. This approach aims to foster a culture where players feel supported yet accountable for their contributions.

    Moreover, Gambhir confirmed that pacer Akash Deep would miss the SCG Test due to a stiff back but did not specify a replacement, further indicating that he is focused on immediate performance rather than long-term planning at this juncture.

    Also READ: 7 embarrassing feats India achieved in 2024 under Gautam Gambhir as head coach

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  • Irfan Pathan calls out dressing room disclosures amid Gautam Gambhir’s fury

    Irfan Pathan calls out dressing room disclosures amid Gautam Gambhir’s fury

    The recent revelations about the Indian cricket team’s dressing room dynamics have sparked significant controversy, particularly surrounding head coach Gautam Gambhir‘s management style and communication issues with players and selectors. Irfan Pathan, a former cricketer, has voiced his concerns through social media, emphasizing that matters discussed within the dressing room should remain confidential. This situation raises questions about the internal conflicts that may be affecting the team’s performance on the field.

    The dressing room dilemma

    On January 1, 2025, a report by The Indian Express surfaced detailing a tumultuous atmosphere within the Indian dressing room following a disappointing loss to Australia in the fourth Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Gambhir reportedly expressed his frustration with the team’s performance, stating he had enough and that future games would adhere strictly to his strategies. This declaration came amidst growing tensions between Gambhir, captain Rohit Sharma, and the BCCI selectors regarding team selections and game strategies.

    Irfan Pathan reacts on the dressing room drama

    The discord appears to stem from several disagreements over player selections and game plans. Gambhir’s insistence on including veteran batter Cheteshwar Pujara in the squad was reportedly dismissed by the selection committee led by Ajit Agarkar. Furthermore, Gambhir’s decisions regarding younger players like Harshit Rana and Washington Sundar have also sparked debate. The lack of cohesion in these decisions suggests a deeper rift within the team structure that could hinder performance during critical matches.

    Pathan’s cryptic message on social media highlights the urgency of keeping internal discussions private. He took to X and wrote, “What happens in the dressing room should stay in the dressing room!” This sentiment resonates with many who believe that public leaks can exacerbate existing tensions rather than facilitate resolution.

    Also READ: AUS vs IND: Gautam Gambhir engages in a fiery outburst with players after India’s defeat in the 4th Test – Reports

    The pressure cooker environment for Team India

    As Team India navigate through a challenging phase marked by a series of losses—most notably against New Zealand and Australia—the pressure on Gambhir intensifies. His coaching tenure has been scrutinized as players struggle to adapt to his leadership style. Report also indicate that communication within the team is not as effective as it was under previous coaches like Rahul Dravid and Ravi Shastri. This breakdown in dialogue could be contributing to the team’s lack of synergy on the field.

    Former cricketers have echoed Pathan’s concerns, emphasizing that this is not the time for selective leaks that could further destabilize an already fragile environment. They argue that maintaining unity is crucial for Team India’s chances in upcoming matches, particularly as they aim to recover from their current losing streak.

    The ongoing saga raises critical questions about transparency and accountability within sports teams. While some level of openness is necessary for growth and improvement, excessive leaks can undermine trust among players and coaching staff. Pathan’s call for discretion reflects a broader understanding of team dynamics where internal conflicts should be resolved privately to foster a more cohesive unit.

    Also READ: AUS vs IND: Michael Clarke predicts Sydney Test as a farewell game for an Australian veteran



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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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  • WATCH: Jasprit Bumrah’s eye-catching send-off after dismissing Sam Konstas on Day 4 of Boxing Day Test

    WATCH: Jasprit Bumrah’s eye-catching send-off after dismissing Sam Konstas on Day 4 of Boxing Day Test

    In a match filled with moments of high drama and skill, Jasprit Bumrah, India’s premier fast bowler, delivered not only a devastating ball but also an animated send-off to young Australian debutant Sam Konstas during the fourth Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).

    Jasprit Bumrah cleans up Sam Konstas with a beauty

    The incident occurred early on the fourth day of the Test when Bumrah, known for his precision and often subdued celebrations, bowled an inswinger that shattered Konstas’s middle stump. Konstas, who had shown remarkable aggression against Bumrah during Australia’s first innings, was dismissed for just eight runs in the second essay.

    The delivery was a masterclass in seam bowling; it pitched on a good length, jagged back sharply between Konstas’s bat and pad, and clipped the top of the middle stump. This dismissal was a stark contrast to Konstas’s first innings performance where he had scored a brisk 60 off 65 balls, including two sixes off Bumrah, becoming the first in nearly four years to hit a six off the Indian in Test cricket.

    A duel of antics: The Bumrah-Konstas rivalry at MCG

    After the ball made its way through Konstas’s defense, Bumrah, typically reserved, erupted in celebration. He turned to the crowd, urging them to roar in approval with a dramatic gesture, mimicking the crowd-engaging celebrations Konstas himself had performed during India’s innings. This send-off was seen as a direct response to Konstas’s antics on day three when he had rallied the crowd while fielding near the boundary rope, a gesture Bumrah evidently had not forgotten.

    Here is the video:

    Also WATCH: AUS vs IND – Jasprit Bumrah castles Alex Carey with a peach on Day 4 of the Boxing Day Test

    Bumrah’s performance in this series has been stellar, showcasing his pivotal role in India’s bowling attack. His ability to adapt his bowling to different conditions and opponents has been on full display, particularly against a young and fearless Konstas who has been making waves since his Test debut.

    Also WATCH: Nitish Kumar Reddy’s father touches Sunil Gavaskar’s feet in emotional moment at MCG – AUS vs IND



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  • First time in 147 years: Nitish Kumar Reddy and Washington Sundar script historic record in MCG Test – AUS vs IND

    First time in 147 years: Nitish Kumar Reddy and Washington Sundar script historic record in MCG Test – AUS vs IND

    In an unprecedented display of resilience and skill, Nitish Kumar Reddy and Washington Sundar have carved their names into cricket history books during the third day of the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25.

    Nitish Kumar Reddy’s brilliant maiden century

    Nitish, the 21-year-old all-rounder, walked into bat when India were in a precarious position at 191/6, still trailing Australia significantly. His determination and technique were on full display as he not only anchored the innings but also scored his maiden Test century, becoming the first Indian at number eight to achieve this feat Down Under.

    Washington Sundar’s crucial role in a record partnership

    Nitish’s knock was a mixture of patience and aggression, showcasing his ability to adapt under pressure. Alongside Reddy, Washington, known for his off-spin bowling, played an equally crucial role. Together, they formed a partnership that not only frustrated the Australian bowling attack but also broke records.

    Also READ: AUS vs IND: Fans go wild as Nitish Reddy hits maiden century on Day 3 of the Boxing Day Test at MCG

    Breaking records: A partnership for the ages

    Their stand for the eighth wicket was not just about the runs but about the number of deliveries faced, with both players reaching over 150 balls in their innings – an achievement never before seen by batters at these positions in Test matches. Their partnership has achieved what no other pair from numbers eight and nine in the batting order has done in 147 years of Test cricket history for India. The duo’s resilience was evident as they faced 210 deliveries together, setting a new benchmark for endurance and skill at the MCG, one of cricket’s most iconic venues.

    India fightback on the bank of Nitish and Washington’s batting heroics

    Nitish’s innings was nothing short of spectacular, with him remaining unbeaten on 105 runs off 176 balls, including 10 fours and a six. His father’s emotional reaction to his son’s achievement, captured on camera, added a heartwarming human element to the sporting spectacle. Washington, on the other hand, played a more measured innings, scoring a half-century off 146 balls, providing the perfect foil to Reddy’s more aggressive approach.

    The partnership was crucial in reducing India’s deficit to 116 runs by the end of Day 3, giving India a glimmer of hope in what seemed like a lost cause earlier in the day. The duo’s effort was not just about personal milestones but about team survival, showcasing the depth and quality of Indian cricket’s lower order.

    Also READ: Twitter reactions: Nitish Kumar Reddy leads India’s fightback against Australia with stellar ton on Day 3 of MCG Test

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  • WATCH: Mohammed Siraj’s bail-switching ritual brings good fortune for Jasprit Bumrah on Day 1 of the AUS vs IND 4th Test

    WATCH: Mohammed Siraj’s bail-switching ritual brings good fortune for Jasprit Bumrah on Day 1 of the AUS vs IND 4th Test

    Cricket has always been a sport rich in tradition and superstition, and Day 1 of the fourth Test between Australia and India at the Melbourne Cricket Ground was no exception. An intriguing moment unfolded when Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj flipped the bails off the stumps while Australian batter Marnus Labuschagne was on strike, a ritual believed by some in the cricketing world to bring good luck and wickets for bowlers.

    Mohammed Siraj’s superstition: Bail-switching at play

    In the 43rd over of the Australian innings, Siraj approached the stumps and deliberately switched the bails, an act that caught the attention of onlookers. Labuschagne, unfazed, simply walked away. This was not the first time such an incident had occurred between the two players. A similar moment at the Gabba saw Labuschagne reversing the change and subsequently losing his wicket shortly after. Siraj even playfully informed Labuschagne about his actions, adding an air of levity to the tense match. However, on this occasion, Siraj’s ritual did not immediately bear fruit.

    While Siraj’s superstition didn’t work for him, it appeared to pave the way for teammate Jasprit Bumrah. In the 45th over, Bumrah dismissed Usman Khawaja in a dramatic turn of events. Khawaja, who was well-set on 57 runs off 121 balls, attempted a pull shot against a short-of-length delivery but mistimed it. The ball found its way to KL Rahul at short mid-wicket, leaving Khawaja walking back with a rueful smile. This breakthrough was crucial for India as Bumrah continued to demonstrate his prowess as a match-winner.

    Here is the video:

    Also READ: WATCH: Steve Smith gets hit in the groin area by Akash Deep; Australian star reacts comically

    Labuschagne, who had looked solid at the crease with a composed 72 off 145 balls, eventually fell in the 66th over. Washington Sundar, introduced into the attack, enticed the batter into an expansive shot. Labuschagne, failing to get to the pitch of the ball, mistimed his shot and was caught by Indian skipper Virat Kohli at mid-off. This dismissal, coming right after the drinks break, was a significant moment for the Indian side as they sought to regain control.

    Australia ends Day 1 strong but not unscathed

    At stumps, Australia had posted a formidable 311 runs for the loss of six wickets. Steven Smith remained unbeaten on 68, showcasing his class with five boundaries and a six. Bumrah emerged as the standout performer for India, claiming three wickets and providing critical breakthroughs. While the day belonged largely to Australia, India’s disciplined bowling ensured the game remained finely poised. As both teams prepare for Day 2, the focus will be on whether India’s bowlers can capitalize on the momentum or if Australia’s lower order will stretch their advantage.

    Also WATCH: Ricky Ponting’s double standards criticizing Virat Kohli while ignoring his own past in the 4th Test | AUS vs IND



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

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

    In an unexpected turn during the third Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 at the Gabba in Brisbane, Fox Cricket commentator Isa Guha found herself at the center of controversy due to a remark made about Indian fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah. Guha, known for her insightful commentary and respected voice in cricket broadcasting, has since issued a sincere apology for her choice of words.

    On the second day of the Test, while Bumrah was delivering an impressive performance with his second five-wicket haul of the series, Guha made a comment that quickly sparked debate online and among cricket fans. Describing Bumrah as “the MVP – Most Valuable Primate,” Guha’s attempt to highlight Bumrah’s significance to the Indian team was met with criticism for its potential racial insensitivity.

    The term “primate,” although technically accurate in a biological context, carries historical connotations particularly sensitive in cricket, harking back to the infamous ‘Monkeygate’ scandal involving India’s Harbhajan Singh and Australia’s Andrew Symonds in 2008.

    Guha offers her apology

    Realizing the unintended impact of her words, Guha addressed the issue head-on at the start of Day 3’s broadcast. She emphasized that her intention was to praise Bumrah’s exceptional performance and leadership, admitting she chose the wrong word to convey her admiration.

    “Yesterday in commentary I used a word that can be interpreted in a number of different ways. Firstly, I’d like to apologise for any offence caused. I set myself really high standards when it comes to empathy and respect of others,” Guha stated during the live coverage on Fox Cricket.

    Emphasizing her commitment to empathy, respect, and inclusivity, Guha expressed regret for any unintentional offence caused. Highlighting her advocacy for equality and understanding within cricket, she clarified that her South Asian heritage and dedication to diversity should reflect her genuine intentions, with no malice behind her comment.

    “If you listen to the full transcript I only meant the highest praise for one of India’s greatest players. And someone that I admire greatly. I’m an advocate for equality and someone who has spent their career thinking about inclusion and understanding in the game,” she added, clarifying her stance on diversity and respect within cricket.

    Also WATCH: Virat Kohli departs once again, edging a delivery outside the off-stump as Josh Hazlewood celebrates – AUS vs IND, 3rd Test

    Ravi Shastri commends Guha for showing bravery

    Former India head coach Shastri commended Guha for her bravery in apologizing on live television, describing her as a “brave woman” for addressing the issue directly. He acknowledged that mistakes can happen, especially in the heat of the moment during live commentary, and emphasized the importance of moving on, stating that Guha’s sincere apology should settle the matter.

    “Brave woman, to apologise on live television takes some steel. You heard it from the horse’s mouth so as far as I am concerned, game’s over. People are entitled to make mistakes, we are all human. In the heat of the moment, sometimes when you have the mic in your hand, things can happen. Let’s move on,” said Shastri.

    Also READ: Australia or India? Matthew Hayden and Adam Gilchrist predict the winner of Gabba Test

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