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Nathan McSweeney could be dropped for Boxing Day Test against India

Charbel Coorey
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Nathan McSweeney could be dropped for Boxing Day Test against India

Nathan McSweeney will be dropped for the fourth Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) according to a report in the Sydney Morning Herald. Daniel Brettig and Tom Decent previously reported that the selectors could look for a more aggressive option up top to tackle Jasprit Bumrah, who has been dominant in this series with 21 wickets at 10.90.

“According to sources close to the team, speaking on the condition of anonymity, McSweeney’s spot in the XI is not guaranteed for Melbourne after passing 10 just once in six innings,” the initial report read. “Australia may opt for a more proactive approach at the top of the order given Bumrah has been able to dictate terms.”

On Friday morning, Tom Decent and Andrew Wu reported that McSweeney is set to be dropped. “Nathan McSweeney is set to be dropped from Australia’s Test squad for the Boxing Day Test, with NSW young gun Sam Konstas poised for a call-up,” the report read.

“Sources with knowledge of selection, speaking on the condition of anonymity because they do not have permission to discuss selections, have indicated that McSweeney won’t feature for Australia in the fourth Test. The 25-year-old has been informed of the decision.”

Selectors drop Nathan McSweeney for Boxing Day – report

Nathan McSweeney has found the going tough this series, scoring 72 runs in three Tests at an average of 14.40. He has fought hard across 212 balls, doing his best to get through the new ball period and set up a platform for Travis Head, with his effort under lights in Adelaide a promising display.

McSweeney’s start to his Test career is the worst of any Australian opener in the past 40 years. However, he is up against one of the all-time greats. Bumrah has had his number, dismissing him four times for 15 runs in 66 balls.

It is to be noted Usman Khawaja and Marnus Labuschagne are also struggling, which would make dropping McSweeney seem the harsh move. Bumrah has dismissed Khawaja four times for 17 runs in 71 balls, with the left-hander scoring a total of 63 runs at 12.60. Labuschagne hasn’t fared much better, with 82 runs in total at 16.40, with returns of 2/6 off 72 balls against Bumrah.

However, captain Pat Cummins defended the returns of the top three. He said their contribution at Adelaide and Brisbane ensured that Head walked out to the pitch in the 41st and 39th over respectively.

“I think the trend in world cricket pretty much all around the world is the top three is a really hard place to bat at the moment,” Cummins said, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo. “Particularly here in Australia, the wickets are tough. I think there’s little snippets that have been important. Again, that first innings, Trav walks in 35 overs into the game, I think that makes a big difference, the same in Adelaide. Obviously they [the top three] would be hoping to score more runs, we’d like them to score more runs, but I think they have made some important contributions that others have benefited from.”

Sam Konstas to play – report

There are calls for young gun Sam Konstas to come into the squad and open. The 19-year-old is enjoying a fine season so far. This includes hitting twin hundreds in a Sheffield Shield game, hitting an unbeaten 73* against India A at the MCG, smacking 107 against India in a tour game in Canberra and then hammering 56 off 27 balls on BBL debut.

According to Ben Horne for CODE Sports, Konstas is on the verge of an Australian squad callup. “A behind-the-scenes push to overhaul Australia’s struggling top order has put Sam Konstas in the frame to be called into the squad for the Boxing Day Test,” read the post on X.

Whether Konstas can have success against Bumrah and co. remains to be seen. But, his more attacking approach could be what the selectors are after. It adds to the already interesting narratives building ahead of Boxing Day. Debates are rife as to which team has the upper hand heading into the all-important fourth Test.

Australia cannot lose. If India win, the Border-Gavaskar Trophy will remain with them once again, prolonging Australia’s wait which stretches back to the start of the 2017 series.

Reactions to Gabba BGT Draw: Which team has the upper hand before the 4th Test at the MCG?

Charbel Coorey
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Reactions to Gabba BGT Draw: Which team has the upper hand before the 4th Test at the MCG?

The third Test at the Gabba had many narratives, talking points and possible scenarios, but rain ultimately had the final say with the match ending in a draw. It was a frustrating five days with a seemingly infinite number of rain delays as the Brisbane weather would not relent.

Australia were on top for the majority of the Test. Centuries to Travis Head and Steve Smith drove a strong first innings, with Alex Carey then taking the hosts to 445. It was then a case of “what ifs” for the Australians, with Steve Smith’s drop on the first ball of day four and Josh Hazlewood’s injury making their quest for victory all the more difficult.

Pat Cummins’ team still had hope of enforcing the follow on with India 233 behind and nine down, but Akash Deep and Jasprit Bumrah saw them to safety following a fine innings from Ravindra Jadeja. Deep’s boundary to take his team past the follow on mark sparked celebrations and perhaps a renewed sense of belief in the Indian camp, reflected in their bowling effort as they ripped through Australia’s lineup on day five, although the hosts were on the search for quick runs.

Australian offspinner Nathan Lyon saw it in a different way. “There’s a few of us who spoke about [how we’re] surprised about their reaction [to passing the follow on]. We have played well and driven the game to where we are,” he said on Fox Cricket.

So, it has led to a debate. Which team is better placed to take out this series? India would be thrilled with the 1-1 scoreline heading into the MCG and SCG Tests. In fact, the tourists have not lost at either ground in each of their last three visits. Also, India would feel they have Australia’s measure, with just Travis Head standing in their way.

However, Australia too have reason for optimism. They dominated much of the Gabba Test and while India have performed admirably in the last two BGT series downunder, the absence of a rock – most notably Cheteshwar Pujara – puts pressure on the current top order to perform. Plus, there is still an over-reliance on the great Bumrah with the ball, although Akash Deep showed more than enough promise to be considered a factor in Melbourne.

Reactions to the Gabba draw: How will the 2024/25 BGT pan out?

There are various (interesting) points of view as to who holds the upper hands. Scott Boland is set to return to the XI at his beloved MCG, and will be sure to test the Indian lineup. Of course, the Australians have their own concerns. It shapes up as an interesting fourth Test.

Looking for a cricket podcast? Check out The CricBlog Podcast hosted by an Australian and Indian fan covering the great game

Marcus Stoinis interview – chance for me to bring silverware to Punjab Kings

Arvind Kalyana Krishnan
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Marcus Stoinis interview – chance for me to bring silverware to Punjab Kings

It wouldn’t be an overstatement to say that Marcus Stoinis is one of the most explosive all-rounders of this era. Melbourne Stars recently appointed him as their new skipper. As the star all-rounder has now taken the captaincy duties from Glenn Maxwell, a lot is expected from him. Moreover, as the Stars are yet to win a BBL title, Stoinis would want to break the jinx, and lead the Melbourne-based franchise to their maiden triumph.

An important point to be noted is that the Stoinis-led side played the season opener without some of their star players like Glenn Maxwell, Ben Duckett and Usama Mir. While the former Stars skipper is yet to recover from his injuries, Duckett and Mir have their international and domestic commitments respectively before eventually joining the men in green.

During an exclusive interview with Arvind Kalyana Krishnan, Marcus Stoinis drew light on Melbourne Stars’ batting lineup for this season. He expressed his excitement over the prospect of having Ben Duckett in their side. Duckett has been participating in the three-match Test series in New Zealand and thus, hasn’t joined the Melbourne-based franchise just yet.

Further on, while speaking to Arvind Kalyana Krishnan during a media presser in Melbourne, Stoinis expressed his happiness over being picked by the Punjab Kings during the recently-concluded IPL 2025 Auction. He was excited to reunite with Ricky Ponting once again. Stoinis was with Ponting at the Delhi Capitals in 2020 and 2021. The all-rounder also stated that Ponting managed to get the best out of him and thus, was looking forward to representing the Punjab-based franchise in IPL 2025.

As for the Indian T20 league, Stoinis has been one of the best all-rounders over there for quite a while now. His exploits for Lucknow Super Giants during the previous editions prompted Punjab Kings to fetch him during the auction.

Keen to join Ricky Ponting at Punjab Kings – Marcus Stoinis

Below is the video and transcript of the Stoinis interview.

Arvind Kalyana Krishnan: As far as Ben Duckett is concerned, he’s been in amazing form. So how excited are you to have him?

Marcus Stoinis: Yeah, we’re excited to have him obviously. He was our first pick and he’s going to play a big role there for us at the top of the order. So we got Joe Clarky right now and then Benny Duckett is gonna come and fill that space when he’s available. He’s been very consistent. He’s come into his own. He hits the ball into different areas, he brings a different aspect to our team as well. He hits the ball behind the wicket, and plays spin very well so yeah, there’s a reason he was our first pick and we’re excited to have him.

Arvind Kalyana Krishnan: And Punjab picked you during the IPL auction. So how excited are you to work with Ricky Ponting again?

Marcus Stoinis: Yeah, Ricky’s my man (smiles). It’s no secret for the cricket circles that I’ve enjoyed working with him…..on a few occasions, and he’s got the best out of me, so that’s exciting. Also exciting that we’ve got a lot of Aussie boys there and a lot of teammates that I’ve played with in Western Australia and Australia, so the setup looks good. It’s a new team for me and it’s a chance to bring some silverware home for a team that hasn’t won anything yet either.

Melbourne Stars lost their first match away to Perth Scorchers to kick off BBL 14. They have a quick turnaround as they host the defending champions Brisbane Heat at the MCG on Wednesday, December 18.

BBL 2024/25 – Full squads and possible XIs for every team

Charbel Coorey
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BBL 2024/25 – Full squads and possible XIs for every team

Mid-December is upon us, and that means it’s time for the 2024/25 Big Bash League (BBL). Eight teams will compete for the title, with seven aiming to dethrone Brisbane Heat who beat Sydney Sixers in last season’s final.

In this article, we’ll look at the full squads for each team plus the possible XIs for their respective first matches, including injury news. It should be noted that Australian Test representatives may be available for the final three league games of the season, but that will ultimately depend on fitness and any management ahead of the Sri Lanka tour in January.

BBL 2024/25: A look at all the squads and possible playing XIs

Adelaide Strikers

Squad: Fabian Allen (West Indies), James Bazley, Cameron Boyce, Jordan Buckingham, Alex Carey, Brendan Doggett, Travis Head, Thomas Kelly, Chris Lynn, Harry Nielsen, Jamie Overton (England), Lloyd Pope, Ollie Pope (England), Alex Ross, D’Arcy Short, Matt Short, Henry Thornton, Jake Weatherald. Signed replacement player: Liam Scott

Possible XI for first match against Sydney Thunder at Manuka Oval, Canberra: 1. Chris Lynn, 2. Matt Short (c), 3. D’Arcy Short, 4. Jake Weatherald, 5. Alex Ross, 6. Jamie Overton (OS), 7. Harry Nielsen (wk), 8. Fabian Allen (OS), 9. Jordan Buckingham, 10. Cameron Boyce, 11. Henry Thornton

Alex Carey, Travis Head and Ollie Pope are all on Test duty. It remains to be seen if Brendan Doggett will be available as he is part of the Australia Test squad. Jamie Overton and Fabian Allen are expected to line up as the latter is not part of the West Indies T20I squad against Bangladesh.

Brisbane Heat

Squad: Tom Alsop (England), Xavier Bartlett, Max Bryant, Spencer Johnson, Usman Khawaja, Matthew Kuhnemann, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan McSweeney, Colin Munro (New Zealand), Michael Neser, Jimmy Peirson, Will Prestwidge, Matthew Renshaw, Mitchell Swepson, Callum Vidler, Paul Walter (England), Jack Wildermuth, Jack Wood

Possible XI for first match against Melbourne Stars at MCG: 1. Colin Munro (OS), 2. Matthew Renshaw, 3. Max Bryant, 4. Tom Alsop (OS), 5. Jimmy Peirson (c & wk), 6. Paul Walter (OS), 7. Jack Wildermuth, 8. Will Prestwidge/Spencer Johnson, 9. Matt Kuhnemann, 10. Mitchell Swepson, 11. Xavier Bartlett

Champions Brisbane Heat have early season challenges. Michael Neser is expected to miss the first half of the season due to a hamstring injury according to cricket.com.au. Spencer Johnson is in doubt for the first match. Also, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne and Nathan McSweeney are all on Australian Test duty.

“He’s [Bartlett] done really well for Australia, he did a great job for the Heat last season and with two of our senior bowlers under an injury cloud at the moment, he’s going to become huge,” coach Johan Botha said to cricket.com.au.

Hobart Hurricanes

Squad: Iain Carlisle, Nikhil Chaudhary, Tim David, Paddy Dooley, Jake Doran, Nathan Ellis, Peter Hatzoglou, Shai Hope (West Indies), Caleb Jewell, Chris Jordan (England), Ben McDermott, Riley Meredith, Mitch Owen, Waqar Salamkheil (Afghanistan), Billy Stanlake, Matthew Wade, Charlie Wakim, Mac Wright. Signed replacement player: Marcus Bean

Possible XI for first match against Melbourne Renegades at GMHBA Stadium, Geelong: 1. Shai Hope (OS), 2. Matthew Wade (wk), 3. Caleb Jewell, 4. Ben McDermott, 5. Tim David, 6. Nikhil Chaudhary, 7. Mitch Owen, 8. Chris Jordan (OS), 9. Nathan Ellis, 10. Paddy Dooley, 11. Riley Meredith

There are question marks around the Hurricanes’ batting for this season. Matthew Wade and West Indies’ Shai Hope could open the batting, with Ben McDermott to bat further down. England’s Chris Jordan plus Nathan Ellis and Riley Meredith are expected to be the three frontline pace bowlers.

Melbourne Renegades

Squad: Jacob Bethell (England), Josh Brown, Xavier Crone, Harry Dixon, Laurie Evans (England), Jake Fraser-McGurk, Marcus Harris, Mackenzie Harvey, Nathan Lyon, Fergus O’Neill, Kane Richardson, Tom Rogers, Gurinder Sandhu, Tim Seifert (New Zealand), Will Sutherland, Jon Wells, Adam Zampa. Signed replacement player: Hassan Khan (USA/Pakistan), Callum Stow

Possible XI for first match against Sydney Sixers at SCG: 1. Jake Fraser-McGurk, 2. Josh Brown, 3. Mackenzie Harvey, 4. Tim Seifert (OS, wk), 5. Jon Wells, 6. Laurie Evans (OS), 7. Will Sutherland, 8. Kane Richardson, 9. Adam Zampa, 10. Tom Rogers, 11. Fergus O’Neill

The Melbourne Renegades look strong in the batting department. Josh Brown joins from the Brisbane Heat and they still have Jacob Bethell to join them after the England Test series in New Zealand. He not only offers excellent strokeplay, but also an important spin option – an area where the Renegades look a little light despite the quality of Adam Zampa in their ranks.

Melbourne Stars

Squad: Scott Boland, Hilton Cartwright, Brody Couch, Tom Curran (England), Ben Duckett (England), Sam Harper, Campbell Kellaway, Glenn Maxwell, Hamish McKenzie, Jon Merlo, Usama Mir (Pakistan), Joel Paris, Tom Rogers, Peter Siddle, Mark Steketee, Marcus Stoinis, Doug Warren, Beau Webster. Signed replacement players: Joe Clarke (England), Adam Milne (New Zealand), Austin Anlezark

Possible XI for first match against Perth Scorchers at Optus Stadium, Perth: 1. Joe Clarke (OS), 2. Tom Rogers, 3. Sam Harper (wk), 4. Marcus Stoinis (c), 5. Hilton Cartwright, 6. Beau Webster, 7. Tom Curran (OS), 8. Brody Couch, 9. Adam Milne (OS), 10. Peter Siddle, 11. Hamish McKenzie

Glenn Maxwell is out of the Stars’ opening match at least with a hamstring injury. In fact, the Stars named their squad for the opening match. Where Stoinis bats is the big question.

Scott Boland, Ben Duckett and Usama Mir are unavailable for the opening match due to international duty.

Perth Scorchers

Squad: Ashton Agar, Finn Allen (New Zealand), Mahli Beardman, Jason Behrendorff, Cooper Connolly, Sam Fanning, Aaron Hardie, Nick Hobson, Matthew Hurst (England), Josh Inglis, Keaton Jennings (England), Matt Kelly, Mitch Marsh, Lance Morris, Jhye Richardson, Matthew Spoors, Ashton Turner, Andrew Tye. Signed replacement player: Bryce Jackson

Possible XI for first match against Melbourne Stars at Optus Stadium, Perth: 1. Finn Allen (OS), 2. Keaton Jennings (OS), 3. Aaron Hardie, 4. Ashton Turner (c), 5. Nick Hobson, 6. Cooper Connolly, 7. Ashton Agar, 8. Jhye Richardson, 9. Jason Behrendhorff, 10. Andrew Tye, 11. Lance Morris

The availability of Jhye Richardson and Lance Morris remains unclear for Perth Scorchers. If one or both are out, they have the likes of Mahli Beardman and Matthew Kelly who could slot in.

Mitch Marsh is unavailable due to Test duty. Josh Inglis is also in the Test squad, so it remains to be seen what his availability is. However, they still have a strong batting lineup with Finn Allen up top and proven BBL performer Aaron Hardie as well.

Sydney Sixers

Squad: Sean Abbott, Jackson Bird, Jafer Chohan (England), Joel Davies, Ben Dwarshuis, Jack Edwards, Moises Henriques, Akeal Hosein (West Indies), Daniel Hughes, Hayden Kerr, Ben Manenti, Todd Murphy, Kurtis Patterson, Mitch Perry, Josh Philippe, Jordan Silk, Steve Smith, James Vince (England). Signed replacement player: Lachlan Shaw

Possible XI for first match against Melbourne Renegades at SCG: 1. Josh Philippe (wk), 2. James Vince (OS), 3. Daniel Hughes, 4. Moises Henriques (c), 5. Jordan Silk, 6. Jack Edwards, 7. Hayden Kerr, 8. Ben Manenti, 9. Ben Dwarshuis, 10. Todd Murphy, 11. Jackson Bird

It remains to be seen if Sean Abbott is available as he was selected in the Australia Test squad. Akeal Hosein will miss the early part of the season as he is in the West Indies T20I squad against Bangladesh. All in all, the Sixers look settled with in-form players including Jack Edwards and Kurtis Patterson to choose from.

Sydney Thunder

Squad: Wes Agar, Cameron Bancroft, Sam Billings (England), Ollie Davies, Lockie Ferguson (New Zealand), Matthew Gilkes, Chris Green, Ryan Hadley, Liam Hatcher, Sam Konstas, Nic Maddinson, Nathan McAndrew, Sherfane Rutherford (West Indies), William Salzmann, Daniel Sams, Jason Sangha, Tanveer Sangha, David Warner. Marquee supplementary list: Pat Cummins

Possible XI for first match against Adelaide Strikers at Manuka Oval, Canberra: 1. David Warner (c), 2. Nic Maddinson, 3. Jason Sangha, 4. Sam Billings (OS, wk), 5. Ollie Davies, 6. Sherfane Rutherford (OS), 7. Daniel Sams, 8. Chris Green, 9. Nathan McAndrew/Wes Agar, 10. Lockie Ferguson (OS), 11. Tanveer Sangha

David Warner will captain the Thunder in what promises to be a strong season. He is available for the whole campaign. Sam Billings, Sherfane Rutherford and Lockie Ferguson is a strong overseas contingent. How the likes of Nic Maddinson and Daniel Sams go can be crucial to their hopes.

WATCH: Melbourne Stars and Melbourne Renegades train together for BBL 2024/25, play practice match

Arvind Kalyana Krishnan
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WATCH: Melbourne Stars and Melbourne Renegades train together for BBL 2024/25, play practice match

The 14th edition of the Big Bash League (BBL) 2024/25 is all set to start from December 15. After the Indian Premier League, it is safe to say that the BBL is one of the biggest T20 leagues in the world.

Teams have started their preparations for the competition in the quest to knock Brisbane Heat, who emerged victorious during the previous edition, off their perch.

Melbourne Stars, as well as the Melbourne Renegades, were recently seen training ahead of the tournament. Both the Melbourne-based teams were recently seen sweating out in the middle. While the Renegades won their first and only title during the 2017/18 season, the Stars are yet to get their hands on the trophy. Thus, both teams would want to script history. Besides, the Stars and Renegades have developed their own rivalry over the years.

Melbourne Stars and Melbourne Renegades play practice match ahead of BBL 2024/25

Both teams were seen practicing on the same ground at the Junction Oval on Thursday. As a matter of fact, they even had a practice match after their respective sessions. Stars from both sides were seen playing this unofficial game. The likes of Tom Curran, Peter Siddle and of course, Stars’ newly-appointed skipper Marcus Stoinis, were a part of this match for the Green brigade.

Having said that, it was the Renegades who had the last laugh as they scored more runs than the Stars. Renegades scored a massive 210 while losing six wickets during the first innings. After which, they restricted the Stars to 140-9.

During and after this practice match, several star players were seen training. This includes the likes of Jake Fraser-McGurk, Marcus Harris, Adam Zampa, Kane Richardson and Will Sutherland for the Renegades. Although the Renegades managed to win the practice match, it was Australia and Stars superstar Glenn Maxwell who received all the limelight during today’s session.

While covering the media and training sessions, Arvind Kalyana Krishnan also noticed that the former Melbourne Stars skipper Glenn Maxwell was part of the training drills and was seen practicing alongside his fellow teammates. In an exclusive video by Arvind Kalyana Krishnan, the “Big Show” was seen giving catches to keeper Sam Harper.

Despite not being the Stars skipper anymore, all eyes will be on the star all-rounder as his recent form hasn’t been great, to say the least. Stars’ new skipper Stoinis was vocal about Maxwell and was clearly seen with the “Big Show” and supported him during the press conference earlier as well. This indicated that the former and current Stars skipper would want to fire together, and get their hands on the trophy that has eluded their franchise.

Australia’s legendary cricketer Meg Lanning was also watching their training sessions, as well as their practice match. The former Australia Women’s captain was present at the Junction Oval in Melbourne too. With the media events and pre-tournament training in full flow, both teams looked set and were rearing to get on the field. Some of the younger stars like Fergus O’Neill, Campbell Kellaway, Jonathan Merlo and of course, Jake Fraser-McGurk spent relatively more time in the middle as compared to the senior players.

The opening game of the BBL 2024/25 shall see the Stars take on the Perth Scorchers on Sunday in Perth. As for the 2018/19 champions, they are set to face the Sydney Sixers on Monday at the Sydney Cricket Ground. The “Melbourne Derby” is slated to take place on January 4. All eyes will be on how both the Melbourne-based teams perform in the BBL 2024/25 and each team is aiming for an improved season.

Melbourne Renegades and Melbourne Stars finalise their preparations for the 2024/25 BBL season, including a practice match.
Melbourne Stars and Melbourne Renegades play a practice match.
Melbourne Renegades and Melbourne Stars finalise their preparations for the 2024/25 BBL season, including a practice match.

Gabba Brisbane weather forecast for 3rd AUS vs IND BGT Test

Charbel Coorey
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Gabba Brisbane weather forecast for 3rd AUS vs IND BGT Test

The inclement Brisbane weather is very likely to have the final say in the third Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (GBT) at the Gabba. After an interrupted day three following just 13.2 overs on day one, even more rain is forecast on the final two days.

In good news for India who are 51/4 in response to Australia’s 445, the forecast for Tuesday (day four) has got worse.

Gabba weather forecast: How much more of the 3rd BGT Test will be affected?

According to Bureau of Meterology (bom.gov.au), there is a 90% chance of rain on day four (Tuesday) with up to 30mm forecast to fall. “Cloudy. Very high chance of showers, most likely in the morning and afternoon. The chance of a thunderstorm, possibly severe. Winds southeasterly 15 to 20 km/h becoming light before dawn,” the bom.gov.au Brisbane forecast reads.

Day five looks just as bleak. There is a 90% chance of rain once again with up to 25mm expected. Given how the rain can linger around South-East Queensland at this time of year, it is very unlikely there will be enough overs to yield a result even with India’s batting struggles.

Brisbane weather forecast for days 4 and 5 of the 3rd BGT Test.

Reliable app AccuWeather forecasts a 100% chance of rain on day four followed by 90% on day five. At least 10.1mm is expected to fall on Tuesday, followed by a huge 23.2mm during the day on Wednesday.

Gabba weather forecast for BGT 3rd Test day 4:

Gabba weather forecast for BGT 3rd Test day 5:

A look at the Gabba weather forecast for the 3rd Test of the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) between Australia and India.

A draw is a good result for India given their standing in this Gabba Test and the fact they hold the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Australia must then avoid defeat at both the MCG and SCG (while winning at least one) to regain the trophy.

Saurabh Netravalkar interview – Nice to meet Indian team after the World Cup game

Arvind Kalyana Krishnan
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Saurabh Netravalkar interview – Nice to meet Indian team after the World Cup game

Saurabh Netravalkar was unarguably one of the most prominent cricketers of 2024. As far as associate nations are concerned, there haven’t been too many cricketers who
have grabbed the headlines like the USA pacer. During the T20 World Cup 2024,
Netravalkar went on to become an overnight sensation.

His performance during the tournament managed to impress fans across the globe.
Moreover, his ability to multitask between his career as a cricketer and his full-time profession as a software engineer for Oracle led to appreciation by the cricketing fraternity. It is to be noted that after being the leading wicket-taker for India in the 2010 ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup, he then made his first-class debut for Mumbai in 2012/13. It was in 2015 when he moved to the United States of America (USA) to pursue his post graduation in computer science.

The fact that he completed his master’s at Cornell University, which is widely regarded
as one of the best universities in the world, is nothing short of marvellous. Post which,
he made his international debut for the USA in 2019.

During an exclusive interview with Arvind Kalyana Krishnan, the star pacer drew light on his struggles as an immigrant and his journey as an American cricketer. Netravalkar spoke about the challenges he and his teammates had to face during their initial days. Further on, he also named his favourite bowlers of all time as well as of this era.

Netravalkar also revealed more information about his interactions with Rohit Sharma and the Indian team during the ICC T20 WC 2024.

Netravalkar had picked the wickets of Sharma as well as Virat Kohli during the
encounter between India and USA in the ICC tournament. Lastly, the 33-year-old said
that he was following the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 as well.

Saurabh Netravalkar interview: Bumrah, Hazlewood, Arshdeep my favourite bowlers of current era

    Below is the entire interview with Saurabh Netravalkar:

    Arvind Kalyana Krishnan: You migrated to a new country and now play for the United
    States of America. Could you draw light on the challenges you had to overcome as an
    immigrant and how you became an international cricketer for the United States of
    America?

    Saurabh Netravalkar: The challenges are unique:

    1. Players come from diverse cultural backgrounds and the way we work together
      towards our common love for cricket is our strength.
    2. Geographically USA is a vast country. Hence it’s not possible for us to get together
      often as a team. So most of us train with limited facilities, mostly indoor synthetic
      pitches and in our own respective local gyms and parks for fitness and get together few
      days before an international tour.
    3. Doing the best out of limited resources is the challenge in USA, but gradually things
      are getting better with more competitive tournaments like Major League Cricket and more international cricket exposure.

    Arvind Kalyana Krishnan: Who’s your favourite bowler/Who are your favourite bowlers
    from the current era?

    Saurabh Netravalkar: All time- Glen McGrath, Wasim Akram, Zaheer Khan, James
    Anderson. Current Era- Bumrah, Hazelwood, Arshdeep

    Arvind Kalyana Krishnan: You recently dismissed both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli
    during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024. Did you manage to speak to either of them
    after that? Could you speak about some of the conversations you had wi”h Rohit
    Sharma, Virat Kohli, or any of the other Indian cricketers during that match/after that
    match?

    Saurabh Netravalkar: Managed to talk to Rohit as I knew him since my days in
    Mumbai. Mostly about growth of the game in USA, some cricketing conversations about the game and the World Cup in general. After the game, had a greeting exchange with all members of the Indian team and it was a very nice feeling to meet everyone.

    Arvind Kalyana Krishnan: Are you following the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy
    2024-25? What are your thoughts and what are your predictions for the series?

    Saurabh Netravalkar: Yes, I’m watching. Sometimes live, sometimes highlights based
    on my schedule. No predictions, I just love watching good competitive cricket between
    top teams.

    Reactions: Mohammad Rizwan slammed for 74 off 62 in T20I vs South Africa

    Charbel Coorey
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    Reactions: Mohammad Rizwan slammed for 74 off 62 in T20I vs South Africa

    Pakistan T20I captain Mohammad Rizwan has been criticised for his 62-ball 74 that ultimately saw his team fall short in the first T20I against South Africa in Durban. Chasing 184, Pakistan were never really in the hunt despite a promising powerplay, with Rizwan – striking below 100 for much of his innings – putting pressure on the other Pakistani batsmen.

    Rizwan was 15 off 19 balls at the end of the powerplay. Saim Ayub’s brisk innings helped Pakistan reach a respectable 55/1 at the end of six overs. However, the visitors struggled for any momentum thereafter, with Rizwan crawling to 36 off 44 balls at one point before reaching his half-century off 50 balls.

    Commentator and former Pakistan batsman Ramiz Raja came in for criticism regarding his view of Pakistan’s innings. Ayub, who hit 31 off 15 balls, was called to have more calmness. “He needs to be calm, he just needed to play sensible cricket,” Raja said. When Rizwan was dismissed in the final over, Raja said “a very good innings comes to an end. He [Rizwan] fought right till the end.”

    Fans criticise Mohammad Rizwan for 74 off 62 balls in T20I loss to South Africa in Durban

    Last month, left-arm pacer Mohammad Amir said Rizwan needs to play with more freedom. “Even though Mohammad Rizwan is so brave and captaining like a warrior, in batting he does seem stuck. He should play freely, he is the captain, he should play with a fresh mind and perform,” Amir said, as quoted by Cricket Pakistan.

    “You score 36 off 44 balls, pile pressure on your team-mates and then attack when it’s too late. Not very clever batting,” wrote well-known journalist Saj Sadiq on X.

    Here are some more reactions to Rizwan’s innings of 74 that played a huge role in Pakistan’s defeat in the opening T20I.

    Earlier, the ageless David Miller (82 off 40 balls) and George Linde (48 off 24 balls) propelled South Africa to 183/9. Linde then won man of the match for his superb spell of 4/21 to help the Proteas take a 1-0 lead in the best-of-three series.

    Worrying trend? Fans share thoughts on huge increase in 2 and 3 day Tests

    Charbel Coorey
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    Worrying trend? Fans share thoughts on huge increase in 2 and 3 day Tests

    The second Test between South Africa and Sri Lanka in Gqeberha reached the fifth and final day, a rare occurence in Test cricket these days. The two concurrent Tests in Adelaide (Australia vs. India) and Wellington (New Zealand vs. England) were complete well before the end of the third day.

    Sri Lanka, on November 28, were bowled out for 42 in the first Test against the Proteas in Durban. The match ended in four days only because rain washed out most of the first day’s play.

    The results in Adelaide and Wellington are reflective of a growing trend. As ABC Grandstand cricket analyst Ric Finlay highlights, there has been a significant increase in the number of three-day Tests as a proportion of games played since 2020.

    Between 2010 and 2019, there were just two 2-day Tests, compared to four already between 2020 and 2024. 3-day Tests (34) are also on track to beat the 59 in the previous decade. In fact, Tests that last three days or less have risen to 21.1% of the total played since 2020.

    Fans share thoughts on shifting trend towards shorter Tests

    Fans and experts have taken to social media to share their thoughts as to why there is a growing trend towards shorter Tests. Many believe the exponential growth in T20 cricket has affected batting techniques, but the rise in bowling-friendly surfaces has also played a part.

    England great Kevin Pietersen, a very attacking player himself, believes there is a lack of application and skill in Tests.

    “No one should be surprised by the lack of batting application and technique in Test Match cricket,” he wrote on X in November. “Cricket is a ‘smackers’ game now and there is a disintegration of Test Match batting skill in the game. When it comes to playing spin, the only way, spend time playing against it for hours and hours and hours. There’s no quick remedy!”

    However, there are fans who prefer the quick nature of Test cricket today compared to the years of batting dominance, especially in the mid-to-late 2000s.

    Should Tests be made four days?

    Cricbuzz’s Bharat Sundarasen put the idea forward of four-day Tests. Speaking on SEN cricket, Sundarasen said “I can’t see the big rivalries, Aus/Eng/India series being 4-day Test matches, but there could be a case made for other countries to play 4-day test matches. It may help a few cricket boards and might enhance some series.”

    The Willow Talk Podcast put the question forward. Cricket journalist Ben Horne believes four-day Tests are becoming “logical” given that boards and broadcasters can get more value. However, fans still value five-day Tests, with many of the comments asking for the five days to be kept as its a unique feature of the sport.

    Do you believe the shift towards shorter Tests is a worry especially given broadcasters would want to spend less in the future? Or does it make for a more entertaining product? Share your thoughts @cric_blog or in the comments!

    4 Cricket Teams That Defined the Game’s History

    CricBlog News Desk
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    4 Cricket Teams That Defined the Game’s History

    Those who aren’t familiar with the world of cricket might think it’s more of a background sport that can’t match up to the marvel of soccer or the spectacle of American football. The reality is that cricket has such a deep history and significance in many different cultures around the globe that it simply can’t – and likely never will – be cast aside. In comparison to other bat-and-ball games like baseball and golf, cricket is the only one with a specific target: the wicket. It also originated centuries ago, some say during the medieval period, as a children’s game.

    For so long, cricket has been able to come into its own and develop into a full-fledged sport, allowing fans to form an identity around it and connect with other like-minded people. In the sport’s history, a handful of teams have achieved unbelievable victories and broken records that have defined the trajectory of cricket. Ready to find out which teams managed to achieve greatness? Then read on!

    Cricket teams that defined the history of the sport

    India National Cricket Team (1983 World Cup Winners)

    It’s a well-known fact that India’s favourite sport is cricket. Most Indians have a special place in their heart for the sport, with it making its debut in the country in the 1700s, thanks to the British. Whether their first religion is Hinduism, Islam, or even Jainism, their second is usually cricket. So, when the India National Cricket Team won the Cricket World Cup for the first time in 1983, they sent the country into a frenzy.

    Captained by all-rounder Kapil Dev, the team bowled and batted their way out of the group stage and into the semi-finals. They won by six wickets over England and thus advanced to face the reigning champions, the West Indies. Winning by an impressive 43 runs, they owed that advantage to the bowler’s exploitation of the pitch conditions and weather. To this day, it remains one of the most jarring upsets in the history of the sport.

    For India, this incredible feat will forever be remembered. It propelled India to stardom within cricket, and it became a country to watch out for in international tournaments.

    Imran Khan and the Pakistan Cornered Tigers (1992 World Cup)

    On the topic of dramatic victories, let’s talk about Pakistan’s win in the 1992 ICC Cricket World Cup. Known fondly as the Cornered Tigers, this iconic team certainly didn’t seem like they’d clinch the trophy in the slightest. In fact, their initial performance suggested they would be out before they knew it. They won only five of their league games in the tournament, and national hero Imran Khan missed several matches. Fortunately, their luck changed when Khan entered the dressing room before their game against Australia, wearing a t-shirt depicting a tiger and telling his teammates to play like a “cornered tiger.”

    His now legendary motivational words worked, and they went on to knock out Australia, Sri Lanka, and New Zealand and qualified for the semi-final. Pakistan won against New Zealand by four wickets and faced England in the final. England had already had a rocky start, and Pakistan capitalised on that. Khan eventually sealed the deal by taking the final wicket. The team embodied the ferociousness of cornered tigers that year, becoming an event of pure national pride for the country.

    Australia Men’s Cricket Team (1948)

    If you thought the “Cornered Tigers” was a cool name, what about the term we all know and love in sports: The Invincibles? Well, that’s what the Australia Men’s Cricket team was known as in 1948, leaving the country to play 34 matches over 5 months and returning entirely undefeated. They effectively solidified their legacy in cricket and Australian history, led by one of the most legendary cricketers of all time, Don Bradman. He is statistically one of the greatest sportspeople in history, with a batting average of 99.94. Complementing his abilities with the other icons on the team that year, Australia were poised to win.

    While they had 34 official matches to participate in, their schedule included a whopping 112 days of play in 144 days. Their incredible victory is so significant to cricket history because of the sheer skill of the team as a whole and the collective honours of the players.

    England Men’s Cricket Team (1877-1930s)

    Cricket’s earliest known history stems from none other than England. While there were variations of the game played in other parts of the world, England established it as an official sport, with formal Test cricket formed there too. Thus, the significance of the England Men’s Cricket team can’t be overstated—they essentially built the foundations of the cricket we know and love today. When England and Australia played the first-ever Test match in Melbourne, it introduced the idea of international cricket and birthed the Ashes series between the two countries.

    Other than the evolution of the game itself, the English Men’s team was also part of establishing the International Cricket Council, which oversees the rules and regulations of cricket worldwide. Since England, Australia, and South Africa were already playing international matches, they needed a way to govern them. After two years of discussion, the ICC was founded in 1909.

    And, of course, we can’t forget about England’s many accolades in cricket. The team’s skill and determination allowed them to win 36.9% of their matches over the years, ranking them the third most successful in Test cricket. They’ve also won one ICC Cricket World Cup (out of 13) and are undefeated against Ireland and Zimbabwe.

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