With the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 currently tied 1-1, the cricketing rivalry between Australia and India continues to capture the imagination of fans worldwide. Over the years, this contest has w??itnessed legendary performa??nces from some of the finest players in cricket history.

Former Australia captain Michael Clarke has now added to the excitement by unveiling his India-Australia combined XI of the 21st century. The lineup features a mix of iconic ??batters, bowlers, and ke?epers who have dominated the game across different eras. Clarke shared his selections during a conversation with cricket journalist Bharat Sundaresan.

Michael Clarke’s combined India-Australia XI

Explosive openers

Virender Sehwag: Clarke picked Sehwag as one of his openers for the unmatched impact he brought to the top order. Known for his fearless stroke play, the? Ind??ian opener dismantled bowlers with his aggressive approach, particularly excelling against Australia.

Matthew Hayden: Clarke went with his former teammate Hayden, who was known for his commanding presence at the crease. Hayden’s ability to dominate spinners, especially in subcontinental?? conditions, made him a natural choice.

Dynamic middle order

Ricky Ponting: Clarke sel??ected Ponting for his incredible consistency and leadership. The former Australia captain’s aggressive style and abili??ty to perform under pressure made him a standout player of his era.

Sachin Tendulkar: Clarke?? chose Tendulkar, describing him as the ep??itome of class and skill. Tendulkar’s unparalleled records and ability to adapt to all conditions solidify his place in the lineup.

Virat Kohli: Clarke then opted for Kohli, praising his intensity and hunger for runs. Kohliâ€?™s ability to chase down targets and dominate in all formats made him a must-pick in the combined XI.

Steve Smith: Clarke went for Smith due to his unorthodox technique and incredible focus. Smith’s knack for scoring runs in difficult situat??ions and his ability to bat for long periods earned him a spot in this elite XI.

Also READ: A?US vs IND: Cheteshwar Pujara picks India’s ideal playing XI for the upcoming Gabba Test

Interesting choice in wicketkeepers

Adam Gilchrist: Clarke? picked Gilchrist as his keeper when playing in Australia. The explosive left-hander revolutionized the role of a wicketkeeper-batter with his counterattacking style.

MS Dhoni: For matches in India, Clarke went with Dhoni, citing his calm demeanor and unparalleled finishing skills. Dhoni’s tactical acumen and leadershi??p further enhanced his value in the lineup.

“If it’s in Australia Gilchrist is my Keeper in Australia. If it’s in India MS Dhoni is my keeper,” said Clarke.

Top class bowling attack

Shane Warne: Clarke selected Warne as his spinner for his unmatched ab??ility to turn games around. The legendary leg-spinner’s t?actical brilliance and wicket-taking skills were key to Australia’s dominance.

Ryan Harris: Clarke picked Harris for his relentless accuracy and ability to swing the ball. Harris was a ?dependable bowler who delivered crucial ??breakthroughs in tough conditions.

Jasprit Bumrah: Clarke went with Bumrah for his unique action and devastating yorkers. The Indian pacer’s remarkable abilit??y to perform under pressure made him a standout choice.

Glenn McGrath: Clarke picked McGrat?h for his extraordinary consistency and ability to exploit batter weaknesses. McGrath’s pinpoint accuracy made him one of the mo??st feared bowlers of his time.

Flexibility in choosing 12th man

Mitchell Johnson: Clarke selected Johnson as his 12??th man in Australian conditions, highlighting the left-arm pacer’s raw pace and intimidating spells.

Zaheer Khan: For matches in India, Clarke went with Zaheer, praising the Indian pacer’s mastery of swing and seam movement, particularly in home condit??ions.

“12th man who can come into the team. If it’s in Australia Mitchell Johnson, if it’s in India Zaheer Khan,” added Clarke

Also READ: AUS vs IND: Harbhajan Singh names two changes in the Indian team for? Brisban??e Test

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The current World Test Champions, Australia, experienced a harsh defeat by the commanding margin of 295 runs in the first Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25, which marked a dramatic start to the series. Captain Pat Cummins’ side was left reeling as India outplayed Australia at their own game. The win was significant for India as they managed to deliver the first major blow in this high-stakes series. This match not only demonstrated India’s strength but also put pressure on Australia’s squad, leading to calls for changes ahead of the next encounter.

Australia’s Mitchell Johnson calls for champion player’s omission

Amidst the fallout from the Perth loss, former Australian bowler Mitchell Johnson has advocated for a shift in Australia’s lineup. Johnson has called for Marnus Labuschagne to be dropped for the second Test in Adelaide, citing the batter’s prolonged struggle with the bat. Labuschagne’s poor run has been highlighted, with scores of just 2 and 3 in the Perth Test and an underwhelming average of 23.57 in Tests since the start of last summer.

In his column for The Nightly, Johnson expressed, “Labuschagne – after a lengthy poor run with the bat – should be replaced for the second Test in Adelaide.”

Also READ: AUS vs ??IND: Here’s how India h?ave flared in pink-ball Tests

He further elaborated that it would be beneficial for Labuschagne to step away from the pressures of international cricket and play some domestic cricket, such as Sheffield Shield or club cricket, to regain form and confidence. Johnson argued that this break would be more constructive than continuing to struggle against a formidable Indian attack led by bowlers like Jasprit Bumrah.

“I honestly believe the best thing for Labuschagne at this stage would be to be left out. It would give him a chance to play some Sheffield Shield and club cricket away from the pressure of playing for your country and I feel he would benefit from that more than going out there trying to survive against Jasprit Bumrah and co,” the 43-year-old added.

Labuschagne’s recent struggles have come under the microscope following Australia’s defeat. His past 10 Test innings have yielded an average of just 13.66, with only one score exceeding 10 runs. This alarming form has led to intense scrutiny and calls for a change Johnson further emphasized that cricketers often face a period where they must be dropped and that the measure of a player’s resilience is shown in how they respond to such challenges.

“Some will say, hold up a minute, it’s just the first Test of a long summer. But this has been going on for a while. In his past 10 Test innings, he’s passed 10 just once. Cricketers get dropped at some point of their careers and it’s about how you bounce back from that,” Johnson concluded.

Pink-ball Test in Adelaide against India

The focus now shifts to Adelaide, where India and Australia are set to face off in the only pink-ball Test of the series. Scheduled to begin on December 6, 2024, at the Adelaide Oval, the match will last until December 10, barring any unexpected early conclusion, similar to what occurred in Perth. The Adelaide Test is expected to offer a unique challenge with the pink ball, which has its own set of conditions and may impact team strategies and selections. Australia’s lineup, including decisions regarding Labuschagne, will be closely scrutinized as they seek to bounce back from their opening defeat and take advantage of the different conditions posed by the day-night format.

Also WATCH: Virat Ko??hli hits back with wit after Australian PM’s remark on his Perth century

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Former Australian pacer Mitchell Johnson, who has had a fierce rivalry with India’s Virat Kohli, has put their past on-field confrontations behind him and expressed a special wish for the Indian star ahead of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25. The two players, who clashed both verbally and physically during the 2014-15 seri?es, have a history of aggressive encounter.

Virat Kohli’s recent form and the stakes for BGT 2024-25 

Kohli, despite being one of the greatest modern-day batters, has been struggling in the longest format lately. With only two centuries in the last four years, and just one half-century in his last ten innings, the pressure will be on Kohli to deliver in the BGT 2024-25 . The five-match series, beginning on November 22 in Perth, may very well be Kohli’s final Test assignment in Australia. Johnson’s request for Kohli to score a century holds particular significance, considering the batter’s struggles and the emotional weight this tour could carry.

Mitchell Johnson’s perspective: A special request

Johnson, writing in The West Australian, acknowledged Kohli’s past success in Australia, where he has an outstanding average of 54.08, higher than his career average of 47.83. The former fast bowler admitted that while Kohli’s form has dipped in recent times, his history on Australian soil means he has the ability to turn things around. Johnson expressed a desire to see Kohli score a century in what may be his final tour.

“The 36-year-old is most likely in Australia for the final time on a Test tour. It’s a place he’s done well. He averages 54.08 in Australia â€?higher than his career average of 47.83 and few batsmen around the world can say that. His form hasn’t been at its best recently and he will be under pressure to perform again here in front of the many Indian fans who will turn out,” Johnso?n wrote in his column for The West Australian.

“I wonder if the situation will give him all the determination he needs or if it will all be too much for him. As a fan now watching on, maybe I’d like to see him make one more Test ton in Australia. As his adversary from a decade ago, maybe not,” the 43-year-old added.

Also READ: AUS vs IND: Sourav Ganguly urges Rohit Sharma and Mohamm?ed Shami to fly to Australia for Border-Gavaskar Trophy

The rivalry between Johnson and Kohli

The rivalry between Johnson and Kohli traces back to the 2014-15 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia, a series marked by intense on-field incidents. Kohli had a phenomenal run, amassing four centuries in as many? Tests, despite India losing 2-0. One notable clash occurred when Johnson, attempting a run-out, inadvertently struck Kohli with the ball. This sparked tensions, with Kohli openly expressing his disappointment and stating that he had lost respect for the Australian pacer. Despite these heated exchanges, Kohli concluded the series as the second-highest run-scorer, accumulating an impressive 692 runs at an average of 86.50.

The evolution of Kohli and Indian cricket

Johnson also commented on Kohli’s transformation, particularly as a captain. He praised Kohli’s dedication to fitness and his relentless drive to push his teammates to better their performances. Reflecting on the Indian team of the 2014-15 series, Johnson noted the competitive spirit Kohli had instilled, noting that the Indian team had become far more ambitious and aggressive. He observed a significant shift in the Indian team since that series, noting their newfound desire to challenge Australia and assert their dominance on the world stage.

“He trains hard and pushes players to get better. I heard about him when Sachin and Sehwag were about to retire. Kohli was demanding as a captain, but he is one player you want to have in your team. I saw a difference in the Indian team that played in Australia in 2014-15, which was my last Aussie summer. They were competitive and wanted to beat us,” Johnson concluded

Also READ: AUS vs IND 2024: India’s playing X?I for the first Test against Australia �Predicted

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The Ashes series between Australia and England ??is one of the oldest and most celebrated rivalries in the history of cricket. It has produced some of the most thrilling and intense moments in the sport. For over a century, legendary players from both nations have ri??sen to the occasion, defining their careers through performances in this iconic contest. With countless records set and broken, the Ashes remain the pinnacle of Test cricket competition, with players etching their names in history.

Adam Gilchrist names his all-time Ashes XI

In a recent chat with Cricket.com, former Australian wicketkeeper Adam Gilchrist named his all-time Ashes XI, comprising some of the greatest players who excelled in this high-pressure series. While many of Gilchrist’s selections were expected, his choice of Shane Warne as captain over other notable leaders raised eyebrow?s, adding a unique touch to?? his lineup.

Star openers

Gilchrist chose the explosive duo of Matthew Hayden and Justin Langer to open the batting for his all-time Ashes XI. The pair was known for their aggressive yet calculated approach, consi??stently giving Australia strong starts during their Ashes campaigns.

Hayden made 1461 runs in Ashes matches, averaging 58.93 with five centuries. His combination of brute strength and elegant stroke play made him a nightmare for English bowlers. Similarly, Langer accumulated 1658 runs at an impressive average of 56.62 in Ashes contests, with five centuries. Langer’s determination and resilience often wore down the opposition, and his partnership with Hayden became one of the most productive in Ashes history.

Dynamic middle order featuring Don Bradman

Gilchrist’s middle order is filled with cricketing giants, starting with Don Bradman, widely regarded as the greatest batter of all time. Bradman dominated Ashes series like no one else, amassing 5028 runs at an astonishing average of 89.78, including 19 centuries. His Ashes record remains unmatched to this day, with ‘The Don’ single-handedly demolishing England’s bowling attacks throughout his career.

Ricky Ponting, another Ashes stalwart, compiled 2476 runs at an average of 44.21, including eight centuries. His ability to play both defensivel?y and aggressively made him a key figure in Australia’s dominance over England during his era.

Steve Smith?, the modern-day batting sensation, has already cemented his place in Ashes history. With 3417 runs at an outstanding average of 56.01, Smith’s 12 centuries reflect his hunger for runs and ability to adapt in challenging condi?tions.

Michael Hussey, known for his calmness under pressure, played pivotal roles in Australia’s middle order. Hussey scored 1304 Ashes runs at an average of 59.27, with four centuries. His stability and reliability added immense value to his team in crunch situations.

Gilchrist selected Brad Haddin as the wicketkeeper for his all-time Ashes XI. Haddin, who took over from Gilly, made his mark in Ashes history with his exceptional skills behind the stumps and with the bat. Hadd?in scored 1366 runs in Ashes contests at an impressive average of 41.31, including three centuries. His Ashes batting performances were crucial, especially during the 2013-14 series when he made several lower-order contributions to help A??ustralia dominate the series.

Also READ: Aussie legend Adam Gilchrist names his three greatest wicket??-kee?per batters

Brilliant bowling attack

Gilchrist’s Ashes XI features an enviable bowling attack led by Shane Warne, who is not only the captain but also the greatest leg-spinner to grace the Ashes stage. Warne’s influence with the ball and tactical mind makes him the perfect l?eader of this team.

Warne holds the record for the most wickets in Ashes history with 195 wickets at an average of 23.25. His ability to outfox the English batters, particularly in pivotal moments, made him a match-winner. Dennis Lillee was known for his fiery pace and relentless aggression. He claimed 128 Ashes wickets at an average of 23.32, often delivering crucial breakthroughs fo??r his team.

Glenn McGrath, a master of line and length, terrorized England with his remarkable consistency. McGrath took 157 Ashes wickets at an average of 20.92, cementing his place as one of the most successful bowlers in Ashes history. Mitchell Johnson rounds off the attack with his raw pace and aggression. Johnson’s memorable 2013-14 Ashes series, where he dismantled England’s bat??ting, was a highlight of his career. He claimed 87 wickets in Ashes matches at an average of 25.81.

Also READ: India ??or Australia? Adam Gilchrist picks the winner of the Border Gavaskar Trophy 2024??-25

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In honor of International Left handers Day on Tuesday (August 13), former Indian opener Wasim Jaffer ?took to social media to reveal his all-time left-handers XI for?? both Test and ODI cricket.

Legendary left-handers: Wasim Jaffer’s ultimate XI

Jaffer, known for his sharp cricketing insights, shared the list with the caption, “A day late but here’s my Test and ODI left-handers XI,” paying tribute ??to the legendary ?southpaws who have left an indelible mark on the sport.

Jaffer’s selections featured some of the most iconic left-handed cricketers in the history of the game. His teams were a blend of players who have not only dominated the records but have also shaped the course of cricket with their unique styles and exceptional performances. These XI’s are a testament to the skill and influence of left-handers in cricket’s rich history.

All time left-handers’ Test XI:

1. Matthew Hayden (Australia): Hayden was known not only for his power but also for his mental toughness and ability to thrive in challenging conditions. His famous innings of 380 against Zimbabwe in 2003 was then the highest individual Test score by an Australian, showcasing his penchant for big knocks.
2. Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka): Sangakkara was not just a prolific run-scorer but also a brilliant wicketkeeper and captain. His 11 double centuries in Tests are second only to Sir Donald Bradman, highlighting his capacity to play long innings.
3. Brian Lara (West Indies): Lara’s batting was marked by elegance and an ability to score big runs under pressure. His unbeaten 153 against Australia in 1999 is widely regarded as one of the greatest Test innings ever, demonstrating his match-winning capabilities.
4. Graeme Pollock (South Africa): Pollock’s career was cut short by South Africa’s exclusion from international cricket due to apartheid, but his impact in the matches he played was profound. His average of 60.97 is the second-highest in Test history for any player with over 20 innings, underscoring his consistency and class.
5. Allan Border (Australia) – Captain: Border is credited with resurrecting Australian cricket during the 1980s. He was known for his gritty, determined batting and led Australia to their first World Cup title in 1987, along with a famous Ashes victory in 1989.
6. Sir Garfield Sobers (West Indies): Sobers was a cricketer with almost no weakness, capable of excelling with bat, ball, and in the field. His versatility as a bowler allowed him to be both a destructive pace option and a cunning left-arm spinner.
7. Adam Gilchrist (Australia) – Wicketkeeper: Gilchrist revolutionized the role of a wicketkeeper-batsman with his aggressive batting. His ability to change the course of a game within a session made him one of the most feared lower-order batsmen in Test history.
8. Wasim Akram (Pakistan): Akram is often considered the greatest left-arm fast bowler of all time. His mastery of reverse swing and ability to bowl with pace and accuracy made him lethal in all conditions. Akram’s contribution as a lower-order batsman, where he scored around 3,000 with three centuries, added to his value.
9. Zaheer Khan (India): Zaheer was India’s premier fast bowler for much of his career, known for his ability to swing the ball both ways and deliver in crucial matches. His performance in the 2011 World Cup was instrumental in India’s triumph.
10. Mitchell Johnson (Australia): Johnson’s express pace and intimidating bowling were key features of his career. His devastating spells during the 2013-14 Ashes series, where he took 37 wickets, are still remembered as one of the most dominant performances by a fast bowler.
11. Kuldeep Yadav (India): Yadav is one of the few left-arm wrist spinners in cricket, and his ability to turn the ball both ways makes him a unique threat. His hat-tricks in ODIs and five-wicket hauls in Tests demonstrate his potential to be a match-winner.

Also READ: BCCI releases revised schedule for India’s home T20I series with Bangladesh and E??ngland

All time left-handers’ ODI XI:

1. Matthew Hayden (Australia): Hayden was a dominant force in ODIs, with his aggressive batting at the top of the order helping Australia to multiple successes, including the 2007 World Cup where he was the leading run-scorer.
2. Sanath Jayasuriya (Sri Lanka): Jayasuriya changed the role of an opener in ODIs with his explosive batting during the 1996 World Cup. His all-around abilities, with both bat and ball, made him a pivotal figure in Sri Lanka’s rise in world cricket.
3. Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka): Sangakkara’s ODI career was equally impressive, particularly in the later stages where he scored four consecutive centuries in the 2015 World Cup, leading Sri Lanka to the knockout stages.
4. Brian Lara (West Indies): Lara’s ODI career was marked by his ability to play match-winning innings. His 153* against Pakistan in 2005 is considered one of the finest chases in ODI history.
5. Yuvraj Singh (India): Yuvraj was the hero of India’s 2011 World Cup win, where he was named Player of the Tournament for his all-round brilliance. His ability to hit sixes at will and provide crucial breakthroughs with the ball made him one of the most valuable ODI players.
6. Michael Bevan (Australia): Bevan was known as the ‘finisher�in ODIs, with his ability to guide Australia to victory from precarious situations. His unbeaten 78 against West Indies in 1996, where he led Australia to a one-wicket win, is one of the most iconic moments in ODI cricket.
7. Lance Klusener (South Africa): Klusener was a destructive lower-order batsman and a handy bowler. His performance in the 1999 World Cup, where he almost single-handedly took South Africa to the final, remains legendary.
8. Wasim Akram (Pakistan): In ODIs, Akram was not just a lethal bowler but also a powerful hitter lower down the order, capable of changing the game with the bat as well.
9. Zaheer Khan (India): Zaheer was a key component of India’s bowling attack in ODIs, particularly in the 2011 World Cup where he finished as the joint-highest wicket-taker, playing a vital role in India’s title win.
10. Mitchell Starc (Australia): Starc’s fast, swinging deliveries have made him one of the most dangerous ODI bowlers. His performances in the 2015 and 2019 World Cups, where he was the highest wicket-taker in both tournaments, underline his match-winning capabilities.
11. Kuldeep Yadav (India): Yadav’s wrist-spin has brought a new dimension to India’s bowling attack in ODIs, with his ability to deceive batsmen with turn and flight making him a potent weapon, particularly in the middle overs.

A day late but here's my Test and ODI left handers XI. What's yours? #LeftHandersDay pic.twitter.com/4BjGkNJ5Jh

— Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) August 14, 2024

Sourav Ganguly’s omission from the XI

Despite being one of India’s finest left-handed batters and a successful captain, Sourav Ganguly did not make it to Jaffer’s XI in either format. Ganguly’s ODI records are impressive, with 11,363 runs at an average of 41.02, including 22 centuries. In Tests, he accumulated 7,212 runs at an average of 42.17 with 16 centuries.

As a captain, he transformed Indian cricket, instilling a fighting spirit that led to several overseas victories. However, the stiff competition and the inclusion of multi-faceted players like Sir Garfield Sobers and Yuvraj Singh, who offered additional bowling options, might have influenced his exclusion. Additionally, in the context of Jaffer’s selected XI, players like Lara, Sangakkara, and Hayden were prioritized for their consistent and game-changing performances across various conditions and eras.

Also READ: Not Sachin Tendulkar or Virat Kohli! Sun??il Gavaskar names India’s greatest sportsperson

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The stage is set for a thrilling IPL 2024 final as Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) lock horns with Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on?? Sunday. Both teams finished as the top two in the league stage, show??casing their consistent performances throughout the season.

KKR, led by Shreyas Iyer, will be brimming with confidence after securing convincing victories against SRH in both their previou??s encounters this season. They claimed a win in their opening match at home in Kolkata and followed it up with another dominant performance in Qualifier 1 at Ahmedabad.

This will be KKR’s third appearance in the IPL final. They will be hoping to learn from their narrow defeat in the 2021 final against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and claim their third IPL title. SRH, on the other hand, will be determined to dethrone?? KKR and lift their second IPL tro??phy.

Also READ: IPL 2024 Final, KKR vs SRH – Broadcast, Live Streaming details | When and where to watch in India, USA, UK, Pakistan & other countries

With both teams boasting strong batting lineups and potent bowling attacks, this promises to be a closely c?ontested final. Cricket fans around the world will be e??agerly awaiting this high-voltage encounter to see who emerges victorious in the battle for IPL 2024 supremacy.

Major IPL final stats and records ahead of the KKR vs SRH encounter:

Most runs in IPL finals

Highest individual score in IPL finals

• Shane Watson (CSK) – 117 not out vs SRH (2018)
• Wriddhiman Saha (PBKS) – 115 not out vs KKR (2014)
• Sai Sudharsan (GT) – 96 vs CSK (2023)

Most wickets in IPL finals

Best bowling figures in IPL finals

• Anil Kumble (RCB) – 4/16 in four overs vs Deccan Chargers (2009)
• Dwayne Bravo (CSK) – 4/42 in four overs vs MI (2013)
• Karanveer Singh (PBKS) – 4/54 in four overs vs KKR (2014)

Most catches in IPL finals

• MS Dhoni (CSK) – 8 in 11 matches (as a wicket-keeper)
• Ravindra Jadeja (CSK) – 6 in 8 matches
• Suresh Raina (CSK) – 6 in 8 matches

Also READ: IPL 2024, KKR vs SRH – MA Chidambaram Stadium Pitch Report, Chennai Weather Forecast, T20 Stats & Records | Kolkata Knight Riders vs Sunrisers Hyderabad

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In a recent fun interview with ESPNCricinfo, England’s cricketer Jonny Bairstow, currently playing for Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024, shared insights in??to his views on the top T20 batters, toughest bowlers he has faced throughout his career and many other interesting questions.

Jonny Bairstow insights: Top three T20 batters

Bairstow, known for his explosive batting and dynamic wicketkeeping skills, revealed his current top three T20 batters. According to him, the list includes Suryakumar Yadav, Jos Buttler and Heinrich Klaasen. Each of these players brings a unique skill set to the T20 format, with Yadav’s innovative stroke play, Buttler’s aggressive batting style, and Klaasen’s ability to anchor the innings effectively.

Toughest bowlers

Reflecting on the toughest bowlers he has encountered, Bairstow highlighted South African legend Dale Steyn and Indian pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah. Both Steyn and B??umrah are renowned for their pace, accuracy, and abilit??y to trouble batters with their variations, making them formidable opponents on any surface.

Also READ: Sam Curran picks Rohit Sharma among the three batters f?or his dream T20 hat-trick

One admirable opponent in England’s team

Bairstow also shared insights into the bowler who gave him sleepless nights, naming Australian pace legend Mitchell Johnson. Johnson’s raw pace and aggressive bowling style posed significant challenges for Bairstow during their encounters on the field. Expressing admiration for Australian skipper Pat Cummins, Bairstow revealed his desire to face Cummins in the Ashes series, citing his al??l-round cricketing abilities and leadership qualities as reasons for wanting him on the England team.

Spinner to avoid

When asked about a spinner he would like to avoid facing, Bairstow wasted no time in naming Indian all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, describing him as “phenomenal” due to his ability to turn the ball sharply and contribute with both bat and ball in crucial situations.

Bairstow’s IPL 2024 campaign with Punjab Kings

Despite his illustrious career, Bairstow has faced a challenging IPL 17 campaign with Punjab, struggling to replicate his top form in the tournament. With just 96 runs in six matches at an average of 16.00, Bairstow will be keen to turn the tide and make significant contributions to his team’s success in the upcoming matches.

As Punjab currently sits in ninth place in the IPL standings with two wins and five losses, Bairstow and his teammates will be aiming to bounce back and showcase their potential in the remainder of the tournament. Their next challenge awaits them against the Gujarat Titans (GT) at Mullanpur Stadium on Sunday (April ??21),? where Bairstow will have another opportunity to make an impact on the field.

Also READ: IPL 2024: Mumbai ??Indians dugout accused of signaling for DRS review

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Former Australian fast bowler Mitchell Johnson has expressed his skepticism regarding Steve Smith‘s motivation for playing T20 internationals for Australia, suggesting that Smith might be using these matches to enhance his appeal for T20 leagues worldwide after his Test career concludes, thereby securing lucrative contr??acts.

Steve Smith’s T20 struggles: A dilemma for Australia ahead of World Cup 2024

Despite Australia’s recent dominance in the T20I series against New Zealand, Smith’s struggles in the shortest format persist, raising concerns with the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024. The 34-y??ear-old, after sitting out the first game, featured in the last two matches against New Zealand but failed to make a significant impact, scoring 11 and four in the respective games.

Mitchell Johnson questions Smith’s T20 International motivation

In a column for the Nightly, Johnson, who represented Australia in international cricket from 2005 to 2015. questioned Smith’s genuine interest in international T20 cricket and speculated on the allure of playing in global T20 leagues post his Test career. Johnson pondered whether Smith aim to perform at the international level and in World Cups to bolster his chances of securing substantial contracts in T20 leagues worldwide.

“I wonder if international T20 cricket is something he really wants to play. Of course, he will most likely play in a few different leagues around the world when his Test career is over and so maybe there is a dangling carrot in that he wants to perform at international level and at a World Cup to boost his chances of playing in leagues where he can earn himself big pay cheques,” Johnson said.

Also READ: Andrew McDonald provides clarity on Steve Smith’s chances for? the T20 World Cup 2024

Only way to make a place

Despite a??cknowledging the possibility of Smith featuring in T20 leagues post his Test career, Johnson indicated that the opening slo??t might be the only position where the batter could be accommodated in the playing XI for Australia.

“That (opening) gives him time to get himself in and his eye in and once that happens he can hit it all over the park. And with Australia’s explosive batting attack, that could be a good fit for Smith. But Australia need to see him score and do that job consistently before he could be considered for the World Cup,” the 42-year-old concluded.

Despite Smith’s stellar performances in ODIs and Tests, the T20I format has proven to be a challenge for him, amassing only 1094 runs in 67 matches with an average of 24.86 and a strike rate of 125.

Also READ: Mitc??hell Marsh identifies the most crucial Australian player for T20 World Cup 2024

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Australian cricket sensation David Warner‘s electrifying century in the first Test against Pakistan at Optus Stadium in Perth became the talk of the town, not just for his? exceptional batting prowess but also for his unique celebration that stirred co??ntroversy.

David Warner’s explosive century shuts down critics

Warner’s blistering innings, marked by a remarkable 26th Test century, showcased his aggressive batting style as he took on the Pakistani bowlers with a flurry of boundaries and sixes. His scintillating form on Day 1 left spectators in awe and the cricket world abuzz.

After reaching his century, Warner’s celebratory leap took an unexpected turn when he placed his fingers on his lips, prompting speculation about its intended message. The gesture quickly went viral, with fans speculating that it was directed at former cricketer Mitchell Johnson, who had questioned Warner’s form and suggested doubts about a fitting farewell.

Warner clarifies the air surrounding his gesture

In an interview with Adam Gilchrist after the conclusion of second session, Warner clarified the meaning behind his controversial?? celebration. He revealed t?hat the gesture was a response to the criticism surrounding his place in the team leading up to the Test. The opener acknowledged the challenges he faced and expressed satisfaction in silencing his critics through his remarkable performance.

“It was just another Test hundred for Australia. Always feels great. We need to put enough runs on the board to give the bowlers something to bowl at. Yeah, if put in the right areas, the wicket looks a nice one. You can do nothing about the criticism, but you have to put your head down and get into your work. Nothing better than getting runs and silencing the critics,” Warner told Gilchrist on 7 cricket.

Also READ: Twitter reactions – Aamer Jamal sparks Pakistan comeback hopes after David Warner’s terrific ton for Australia on Day 1 of Perth Test

Focus on team success

Warner’s on-field response was nothing short of emphatic as he showcased his aggressive approach, smashing 16 fours and 4 sixes during his exceptional 164-run innings. The century not only solidified his position in the team but also set the tone for Australia’s dominance in the Test match.

Reflecting on his innings, Warner emphasized the team’s goal of putting enough runs on the board to support the bowlers. He credited his partnership with Usman Khawaja and later with Steve Smith for building pressure on Pakistan. Warner reiterated his commitment to the team’s success and his determination to deliver with the bat.

“Look, it’s my job to come here and score runs for my team. From the get-go, I was on my way, and along with Ussie Khawaja (Usman Khawaja), it was great to build up a partnership and put pressure on Pakistan. Now, I am in a partnership with Smudge (Smith),” added Warner.

Also READ: AUS vs PAK – Twitter abuzz as David Warner hits his 26th Test century at Perth

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