Should Team India Add More Pacers Or More Spinners Post BGT Loss?

The Indian Cricket Team struggled during their recent tour of Australia. With the bowling unit completely dependent on Jasprit Bumrah, the question arises whether team India should go back playing four specialist spinners or should they continue with four specialist pacers in their bowling unit? Team India’s Preference For Pace For sometime now, Indians have had recourse to a substantial group of frontline pacers particularly during overseas tours where there were favorable conditions. Historically, it has been an obsession under Ravi Shastri and Virat Kohli that there needs to be at least four specialist pacers in the playing XI, an approach which most of the times was found successful. The Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia, however, brought forth the debate on whether it is valid in the present times or time to think in a different balance of pace and spin. Recent BGT Upset For Team India The 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy was a demonstration of the dangers of straying from this winning formula. India’s bowling attack was stretched to its limits with Jasprit Bumrah ruled out through injury and India ended up with a disappointing series result of 1-3. Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna bowled long hours but to no avail against an Australian batting lineup that was far too strong. This put into the fore how important it is to have a strong core of pace bowling when cricketing is done under seam and swing-friendly conditions. Team India’s Bowling Strategy Under head coach Gautam Gambhir, India’s bowling strategy was slightly changed during the recently concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Instead of relying on four fast bowlers as specialists, India relied on a core of three specialist pacers accompanied by many all-rounders. This change, though flexible in batting order, went wrong for India in the bowling department. All-rounders like Nitish Kumar Reddy were used and played a not so vital role with the ball and such a move was questionable considering the conditions where pace would play a crucial role. Statistics Highlight Team India’s Bowling Needs Statistical analysis indicated that team India’s third and fourth seamers did well in the away conditions during the last several years, having an average of 27.18 and the main strike bowlers showed an even better average of 24.94. In sharp contrast, while playing the recently concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy, the very same third and fourth seamers combined to post a worrying 40.18. Such statistics may indicate going back to more traditional configuration of valuing more proven effectiveness over flexibility. Team India’s Condition-Based Decisions The constant seesaw between the pace and the spin also led to a question about the playing conditions. Traditionally, Australian pitches have been known to favor fast bowling, with their speed and bounce. However, team India chose two spinners in its playing XI. It was a rare decision and one that did not go right for them at all. The spinners could bowl only 16 percent of the overs and did little in taking wickets. In contrast, Australia used their fast bowlers very effectively by placing a well-balanced lineup that constantly threatened the Indian batsmen throughout the series. Team India’s Future Bowling Strategy With these recent performances, there is sufficient evidence to justify a return to a pace-heavy strategy for team India’s future excursions, especially on fast, bouncy tracks abroad. Four specialist pacers would ensure sharper penetration with rest for the primary strike bowlers coming into each contest in fresh conditions. These words of Gambhir from previous remarks—words where he does actually emphasize that to win a test match, the team has to take 20 wickets —reinforces that a potent pace attack simply cannot be in test match cricket. The Balanced Philosophy By Team India Bowling Team India should strike the right balance of both pace and spin and depending on conditions and opposition. However, it should, in a way, depend on away conditions more on the pacers side. The strategy would be restored back to using more specialist pacers as future planning is on by the selection committee and management team. Do you think that team India will go back playing with four specialist spinners in their upcoming test match series or will they go with four specialist pace bowlers in their lineup? The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
What Did Australia’s BGT Win Tell About Their Present And Future?

Australia’s comprehensive 3-1 series win over India in the recently concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy was a result that showed the team’s mentality, depth and future potential. Some testing moments were seen, especially from India’s star pacer Jasprit Bumrah and challenging pitch conditions, however, the win raises several questions about Australia’s squad, their immediate future and their long-term plans. Here’s a breakdown of the key takeaways from the series with a focus on what lies ahead for Australia. How Long Can Usman Khawaja Continue Playing For Australia? At 38, Usman Khawaja’s test future for Australia is now in question. His series against India was a tough one—he managed only 184 runs at an average of 20.44, which was a disappointing return for the opener. Khawaja was struggling against Bumrah, getting out to him six times and his last 24 innings average is just 28.68. However, his captain Pat Cummins feels that Khawaja is still playing well and can continue as long as he’s contributing. However, with his 39th birthday looming during the 2025-26 Ashes, how long can Khawaja continue to hold on to his spot? Performances in tough conditions in Sri Lanka and India may provide him with a temporary reprieve, however, a tour of the West Indies and a World Test Championship Final could well determine his immediate future. Can Australia Accommodate Both Beau Webster And Cameron Green In The Same XI? Beau Webster’s performances at Sydney, have given selectors plenty to think about. He looked the most assured batter on show when things were toughest and can also offer off-spin which adds value to his package. With Cameron Green recovering from back surgery, it is possible both might play in the same side especially with Green set to be used as a batter-only short-term solution. However, how might Australia squeeze both into the one XI? Beyond Nos. 4 and 5, to be taken up by Travis Head and Steven Smith, reshaping the top order to make way for both looks a challenge in itself. So if Green ever returns to top form, being able to include the luxury of keeping both in the same team at least offers further balance to Australia. Will Scott Boland Future Regularly For Australia? Scott Boland’s strong record of 56 wickets at 17.66 has given him a safety, however, a regular spot in the Australian XI by no means is sure. Boland was pretty good in the last two matches of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy at Melbourne and Sydney. At 35, Boland’s future depends on managing his knee issues and with Hazlewood and Starc also in the twilight of their careers, Australia could soon need to look to younger quicks to maintain their strength in attack. What Does Australia’s Squad Depth Say About Their Future? Australia has a fine balance of experience and youth. With only two players below 30 in the side for the India series, things are looking bright for the young contingent. Todd Murphy (24) seems likely to be part of the Sri Lanka tour. Sam Konstas (19) did a fine job on debut. Cameron Green (26), Josh Inglis (29) and Beau Webster (31) give the side some excellent future options. While some might say the old core of the team is getting on, Australia’s selectors feel this transition will occur organically. The blend of experience and youth with an ever-changing squad ensures a bright future, as they now look to retain their World Test Championship title while continuing their hegemony in test match cricket. What Does All Of This Mean For Australia’s Forthcoming Tours? The series win over India showed that Australia has the power and flexibility to win in the short term, however, raises big questions about the roles of players like Khawaja, Green and Boland. Decisions made in the next series against Sri Lanka, the West Indies and the Ashes will define Australia’s future. The old guard and the new faces are going to be a perfect blend in defining the team’s test cricket journey in the years to come. Do let us know how does the future look like for Australia in test match cricket? The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
AUS v IND: India’s Tour Of Australia Dissected

Team India has had a disastrous Border-Gavaskar Trophy. The men in blue were expected to do much better by their fans. However, let’s understand what went wrong with the Indian Cricket Team during their tour of Australia. Team India’s Early Concerns India’s tour of Australia started with a question mark over Jasprit Bumrah’s fitness, many wondering what the team would do if he wasn’t available. However, Bumrah not only played but also produced a series of scintillating performances, almost single-handedly keeping India in the hunt. His leadership and bowling inspired the rest of the attack. However, despite his heroics, India’s chances of success ultimately crumbled without him in the final stages of the series. Team India’s Batting And Leadership Struggles The most notable subplot of the series was the disappointing batting. While Rohit Sharma led by example, his own batting form let him down, whereas Virat Kohli, even at his best attempt to rally his team, made only an indelible mark in the second innings of the Perth test with a crucial century but couldn’t convert stars into substantial innings. Virat and Rohit, who form the spine of Indian batting were not well supported by the rest of the batters. KL Rahul, starting quite sensibly, again became invisible in important moments of the game, something like his ill-judged shot against Scott Boland at the SCG. Team India’s Haphazard Selections And Missed Chances What was concerning at the selection end too. Introducing Harshit Rana at Perth when things were already down and not sending Washington Sundar to bat before the overcast SCG is a dubious policy. Further changes in opening combo, like asking Rohit Sharma to bide time to bat below five, haven’t helped. Among these selection mistakes, all through the series it was such strategic blunders also that provided flavor to chaos this tour epitomized. Australia’s Consistent Performances With chaos all around, India’s bowling remains a strength still led by Jasprit Bumrah. Nevertheless, without appropriate support from their batting lineup, the bowlers did not win any of the moments where they needed them to win this series. It was a case of a very balanced performance by Australia. For Pat Cummins, his tie-up with Mitchell Starc and Scott Boland as well as great contributions from the bat of Steven Smith and Travis Head kept his team ahead. Gambhir’s Tough Decisions In the end, team India’s failure to bring their best games through key individuals in addition to few tough selections they made in a series resulted to be very pricey. Now the series ends losing the BGT, the head coach Gautam Gambhir needs to take many tough calls on players like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. Ahead team India will have to find a gap and rebuild again for challenges it will face again in the upcoming WTC cycle. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
AUS v IND: Rohit Sharma Opts To ‘Rest’ At Sydney

How many times have you ever seen a Captain of a side himself getting dropped out of the side due to a reason? Was It Rohit Sharma’s Decision To Rest? Indian skipper Rohit Sharma has left everyone stunned when it was declared that he won’t be in the playing eleven for the fifth and final test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground. This has raised an all-round furore as people are now left wondering whether it was Rohit Sharma who took the decision to rest or it was the team management who is sugarcoating things? Stand-In Skipper, Bumrah Confesses The Reason Rohit Sharma is indeed one of the master architects who have been successful in India’s success story for recent times as well as to the 2024 T20 World Cup triumph. He was not found in the playing eleven for the series decider against Australia. It was official communication from the Indian stand-in skipper Jasprit Bumrah right at the toss that he has been ‘rested’ for the Sydney test. Since the official declaration was to come from Bumrah, a bundle of speculations about the reasons for dropping Rohit Sharma took place; in this way, some ambiguity and vagueness behind the event was created. Is Rohit Sharma The First Indian Captain To Be Dropped? This is the first time in a while that an Indian captain has been left out of the playing 11 in the mid-series. Historically, Polly Umrigar was dropped from the Indian test side against the West Indies. The second incident was when Sourav Ganguly was left out after a string of poor scores and a strained relationship with coach Greg Chapell. Rohit Sharma’s Test Career The exclusion of Rohit Sharma has raised numerous questions due to his test career. Since his test match debut in 2013, Rohit has scored more than 4300 runs in 67 Tests with 12 centuries at an average of 40.57 runs. Rohit Sharma’s Last Chance In Limited-Overs Cricket Just when his international future hangs in the balance, February’s 2025 ICC Champions Trophy might just become Rohit Sharma’s last crack at delivering on the international platform. India is all set to fight it out against other teams that are competing at the cricketing event that begins on February 19, 2025 and would end on March 9, 2025 across Pakistan and the UAE. It could very well be the swansong for one-day and limited-overs cricket careers of the experienced campaigner in Rohit Sharma, who would be looking at one final hurrah on the international field. As the Indian Cricket Team sets off to Sydney without the skipper, everyone is thinking, has this finally been the last word on Rohit Sharma’s test match career or one last go at redemption? Only time will tell. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
AUS v IND: Why Is Mitchell Marsh Out For Sydney Test?

Australia has dropped all-rounder Mitchell Marsh for the fifth and the final test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, in Sydney and it is confirmed by captain Pat Cummins that Beau Webster will make his test debut. Mitchell Marsh’s Struggles In The BGT Mitchell Marsh’s exclusion comes after a tough series in which he struggled with both bat and ball. In the first four test matches, Mitchell Marsh scored only 73 runs at an average of 10.42, with 47 of those runs coming in the second innings of the Perth Test, when the result was already decided. With the ball, Marsh bowled only 33 overs across seven innings (excluding a brief second innings in Brisbane) and since taking 2 for 12 in the series’ opening innings, his figures have been not up to the standards he has set—1 for 127 from his last 28 overs. Webster’s Impressive Domestic Form Beau Webster, on the other hand, has been in outstanding form in domestic cricket. He was the highest run-scorer in last season’s Sheffield Shield, scoring 938 runs at 58.62 and taking 30 wickets at 29.30. Only Sir Garfield Sobers has previously matched this remarkable achievement in Shield history. This season, Webster has continued his strong form, scoring 303 runs at 50.50, including a century and a half-century and taking nine wickets at 37.88 in four games. He has also impressed with a six-wicket haul in a 50-over game and with a solid show for Australia A against India A, making crucial contributions with bat and ball alike. Decision Based On All-Round Capabilities Mitchell Marsh’s exclusion, although the cricketer was extremely popular with the team and enjoyed a very close relationship with Pat Cummins did not take much to be decided. He also said that Marsh received all this without being shocked. He further added that his bowling skills weighed in this decision but certainly the batting form was the priority matter and Webster could bowl more number of overs more than anyone else. Cummins Enthusiastic Over Webster’s Performances According to Pat Cummins, Beau Webster had hardly worked with him before his time in the side however, was effusive in praising his performances both for Tasmania and Australia A. Captain Cummins cited that Webster did quite well and he was an excellent allrounder who suited this kind of pressure of international cricket. Will adding Beau Webster in place of Mitchell Marsh have a more positive impact on the results at Sydney? The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
Is Rohit Sharma Stepping Down From Captaincy Really The Solution?

The defeat at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) was a bitter pill to swallow for Indian cricket fans. Australia’s win by 184 runs was something that the Indians would rather forget and while Pat Cummins was rightly the Player of the Match, the focus was on the Indian captain, Rohit Sharma and his leadership. It hurts to see our leader battle through a lean patch and more heart-wrenching is the sound of voices clamoring for his retirement. Is this how we must treat a man who has given Indian cricket so much? Rohit Sharma Deserves Our Support Of course, Rohit Sharma’s recent numbers are not upto the mark. At an average of 6.2 runs in five innings in the present series, he managed just 31 runs. Since September he has had 164 runs in 15 innings-a far cry from the powerful hitter we know and love to watch. However, before judging Rohit, let us take one step back and think on this issue. Rohit Sharma is also a human and like any great cricketer there have been moments in his career as well, where he did struggle. Those overs without a single run scored during those crucial minutes at the crease are nothing but moments. It would be tragic to judge a man who has carried the Indian batting lineup for more than a decade on the basis of a few difficult weeks. Rohit Sharma’s Legacy Of Glory Let’s not forget the heroics Rohit Sharma has delivered over the years. Double hundred in test match cricket against South Africa, game saving knocks over the years against teams like England, New Zealand and some truly epic leadership performances when India wins. This man has provided the base for Indian Cricket Team’s success not merely with the bat but also under his tranquil leadership. His current struggles at the bat do not and should not, overshadow everything he has achieved. Rohit is a player of rare elegance, a batsman whose presence at the crease inspires the crowd to play fearless cricket. His ability to rise to the occasion, when it matters most, is one of the reasons we place our trust in him as captain. And now, in his time of need, it is our turn to show the same trust and patience. A Leader Beyond The Runs The value of a captain far outweighs the runs he scores. It’s about leadership, about motivating your team when the chips are down, about staying composed when the pressure is suffocating. Rohit Sharma embodies all these qualities. His leadership has sent India to the summit of test cricket, his judgment calls many times have proven right and his ability to stay afloat in extremely testing times is what makes him the backbone of this side. A captain’s worth is not solely determined by his personal performance. It is defined by his ability to inspire his team, to lead them with courage and conviction. In these trying times, when his bat has remained silent, Rohit Sharma has stood tall as a leader India needs. His composure, his confidence and his belief in his team have not wavered at all. It is in such moments that a true leader shines-not in the easy victories but in the tough times when the team looks up to him for guidance. Rohit Sharma Needs Support, Not Criticism As fans, as supporters of Indian cricket, we have a responsibility to lift our captain when he is down. Rohit Sharma has given us moments of sheer joy, moments we will never forget. To ask him to retire based on a rough patch is to disregard everything he has contributed to the game and to the team. No player should be judged by their worst moments and no captain should be deserted by the very fans who cheered for him when he did well. True loyalty will be shown in standing up for a man when he most needs us to stand. Rohit has given us everything – his passion, his dedication, his heart. He has shown up for us when we needed him and now it’s time we show up for him. Let’s not forget that a true champion always finds a way back. The best players rise from their struggles and Rohit Sharma is no exception. Rohit Sharma Is A Hero Who Deserves Our Faith For us, Rohit Sharma is more than just a cricketer. He is the epitome of leadership and consistency. His journey from Mumbai to Melbourne has been to what it means to play for the love of the game, for the pride of the country and for the millions who look up to him. His current form does not define him. It is just a chapter in an illustrious career. We also have to note that champions are not made from victories but from how they rise above adversity. We should stand by our captain and give him all the support he needs and remind him that he is still our leader. Let’s not rush to replace a man who has given us everything. Let’s rally behind him and show the world that we believe in Rohit Sharma. The road to redemption might be long. However, if there is one player capable of coming through, it’s Rohit Sharma. The best is yet to come and we, as his loyal supporters, will be there every step of the way. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
AUS v IND: How Can India Still Qualify For The WTC 2025 Final?

India’s chances of qualifying for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2025 final suffered a huge setback after being defeated by 184 runs against Australia in the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. With Australia now holding an unassailable 2-1 lead in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), India’s chances of qualifying for the WTC 2025 final now depend on a series of scenarios. India is yet not completely out of the race at all and their hopes of qualification still rest on how they perform in the remaining matches and some unlikely results in other series. India’s Short-Term Task For WTC 2025 Qualification First, India needs to secure the fifth and final test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia. The match is slated to start on January 3, 2025, at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Winning in Sydney will bring the series to a 2-2 level and thereby keep alive their hopes for qualifying for the WTC 2025 final. The qualification path, however, lies beyond their control. India’s fate will also be determined by how Sri Lanka does in their two-match test series against Australia, which begins on January 29, 2025, in Galle. Will Sri Lanka A Role In India’s WTC 2025 Qualification? India will qualify for the WTC 2025 final only if they beat Australia in Sydney and then pray for Sri Lanka to whitewash Australia in their series. If Sri Lanka wins 2-0 over Australia, India can conclude the WTC 2025 cycle with a percentage of 55.26% and thereby surpass Australia’s projected 51.75% and Sri Lanka’s expected 53.85%. This will ensure India qualify for the final, scheduled to be held at Lord’s. However, if India loses or draws the Sydney test, their chances of qualifying for the WTC 2025 final will be effectively over, irrespective of the result in the Sri Lanka-Australia series. What Present WTC 2025 Standings Mean For India? Presently, India is at the third position in the WTC 2025 standings with a percentage of 52.78%. Since it qualified into the final after winning a contest against Pakistan, Australia finds a share percentage of 51.75%, while Sri Lanka placed fourth with a share of 53.85%. If India loses in Sydney, Sri Lanka’s 2-0 win over Australia would not help India into the final, since that would not enhance India’s percentage enough to get it above both Australia and Sri Lanka. What India Probably Could Do At Sydney? For India, the way to the WTC 2025 final is well-laid but not easy. They need to start by performing well in Sydney, where they can’t afford to drop any more matches. Top-order issues have been an issue for the team in the Boxing Day Test and the big names such as Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul and Virat Kohli have not performed upto the mark, so they’ll be looking to do the job in the final test at Sydney. Some other players who had shown lot of grit and resilience in that last game would play a major role if India have to win over Sydney. Can India Make It To The WTC 2025 Final? India can still reach the WTC 2025 final, however, that will only happen if they win in Sydney and Sri Lanka beats Australia 2-0. Their fate will be determined by how both teams perform in the next few weeks. For now, India needs to focus on winning the fifth and the final test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy at Sydney and hoping that other results will fall in their favor, keeping their dreams of qualifying for the WTC 2025 final alive. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
AUS v IND: The MCG Rises To Nitish Kumar Reddy

Cricketing tales of sacrifice are often the pillars of success. For a youngster like Nitish Kumar Reddy, the dream of representing India in test match cricket and standing on top of the game happened in the most remarkable of ways-at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground on Day 3 of the 4th test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Nitish Kumar Reddy Scripts History At The MCG At the age of 21, Nitish Kumar Reddy achieved a feat that no Indian had done before him. Entering at number eight, Reddy became the first ever Indian to score a century in Australia while coming in at number eight. He scored a rather patient 100 runs made off 171 balls inclusive of nine boundaries and a six while playing in front of the daunting crowd at the MCG. While the crowd erupted in applause, the young Reddy stood tall, a wave of relief washing over him, as his century symbolized not just his personal achievement, but the culmination of years of hard work and sacrifice. Reddy’s Father’s Sacrifice Nitish Kumar Reddy’s journey to this moment has not been an easy one. Indeed, it was paved with immense challenges not only for Reddy but also for his family, particularly his father. While many would have doubted the boy’s pursuit of a cricketing career, Reddy’s father remained steady in his support. He had given up a stable job, believing in his son’s potential despite the doubts and criticisms that often came their way. For years, his father had borne the dual load of financial strain and the emotional cost, all that time urging his son on, encouraging him to pursue this dream of the game. Reddy’s Awakening: Cost Of Sacrifice For the young cricket enthusiast, cricket was, after all, just something one enjoyed without fully being conscious of the sacrifices he had to make for him to pursue his dream. However, the time the sacrifice really weighed up: on finances perhaps but it weighed up something bigger-those sacrifices placed enormous weight. In that minute Reddy’s attitude in front of the game went over the wall. He did all his own eyes saw as pain reflected through his father, in those tears Reddy took the vow for a reason. He knew that for the sacrifices his dad made, he had to give everything to his dream. Reddy’s Commitment Towards The Game It was followed by an extreme dedication for a year of that time. Each practice and each match was the ability to prove to himself that to the man who stood by his side for all those years these sacrifices were not wasted on him. He developed really very fast as a person and the changes went not only for skills each day but also as mental strength that would produce performances nobody would doubt again for his talent. Reddy Rises To The Occasion At The MCG It was an emotional moment at the MCG on Saturday, December 28, 2024, after all those years of struggle and a sense that all his sweat had just paid off when he was raising his bat to a crowd as an acknowledgement and a tribute, for a century wasn’t just just a milestone but also gratitude to the man who has made it all possible, his father. Reddy’s century came in front of his father. Nitish Kumar Reddy surely is living all the boys’ dream. The True Measure Of Reddy’s Success In that moment, it would be clear that success did not just lie in the runs scored on the field, but in the strength and determination and support that had shaped Nitish Kumar Reddy to become the player he became. Reddy’s journey was the story of one man’s ambition, a father’s sacrifices, a son’s commitment and the power of self-belief that transforms a dream into reality. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
AUS v IND: Should Virat Kohli Have Treated Sam Konstas Better?

The Boxing Day test at the MCG witnessed the 19-year-old Sam Konstas make his international debut in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy. The Australian rookie immediately made his mark with an audacious batting display, reverse-scooping India’s pace bowling spearhead, Jasprit Bumrah, for a stunning six. This indeed has to be said about the way Konstas approached the game with no fear. Sam Konstas slammed a brisk 60 off 65 balls. Still, what stole all that was happening was an unfortunate fireworks incident when Virat Kohli seemed to deliberately bump his shoulder to Konstas. Did Kohli Bump Konstas Intentionally? Virat Kohli, at one time after an over went up to Sam Konstas and shoulder-shovelled the young Aussie. A seemingly unprovoked body check had people wondering about Kohli’s motives. Was it that he was frustrated with the audacity of the younger bloke or something more? Whatever was there, it made Virat Kohli look aggressive, especially coming out against a debutant who in person is also very young in age. Later in the evening, Virat Kohli was sanctioned 20% of his match fees and given one demerit point by the ICC for his on-field behaviour. Was That Really Needed From Kohli? While emotions often run high in the heat of competition, this incident set questions about the conduct of a player of Kohli’s stature. His actions could be seen as needing to be unnecessarily hostile towards a youngster making the mark on the biggest of stages. Kohli, as one of the most experienced players in world cricket, carries the responsibility of setting a good example for the younger generation. Did Spirit Of Cricket Go For A Toss? Konstas, who had once revealed how much he adored Kohli in the media, seemed to be put between the devil and the deep blue sea. Here was a young cricketer, full of big dreams and with a thirst to prove himself, receiving an unexpected shoulder charge from one of his idols. The confrontation stood starkly against the mutual respect that often defines cricket’s values, where even fiercest rivalries are conducted with a sense of sportsmanship. Should Kohli Have Been A Mentor? This incident raises questions over how senior players treat their junior colleagues, especially on debut. Debut is the time to encourage them, make them feel welcomed and give them all positive vibes. Instead, “welcome to international cricket” would have been in much better taste than this shoulder-bumping gesture which came with an air of irritation for the young man’s uncanny ways of playing. In fact, it was not just about Sam Konstas to prove his worth, but Virat Kohli also had something to show the world – that he was the first one in a competitive atmosphere to have respect for the game as well as respect for one’s fellow players. Senior Players’ Influence On Youngsters It is important to understand that sports are more than just individual performances. It is a team effort and harmony in the dressing room is essential. A leader both on and off the field, Virat Kohli should have realized that his actions could set the wrong tone for the younger generation watching. Sam Konstas may have been a rookie, however, Kohli’s experience should have guided him to a more respectful interaction, one that fostered an environment where new talent could thrive. A Race Between Passion And Sportsmanship For Kohli At the end of it all, when Virat Kohli is most brilliant on the field, it was his passion and intensity that played against him in this instance. Perhaps, he needed more temperance, especially with such young, impressionable players around. Cricket is a game of respect and veterans like Virat Kohli are expected to set a good example, not only in their skills but also in their character. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
AUS v IND: Tanush Kotian’s Story From Mumbai To Melbourne

Mumbai’s off-spin-bowling all-rounder Tanush Kotian, received his biggest call-up for a place in the Indian Cricket Team for the fourth test of the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy to be held in Melbourne. Kotian Still In His Early Days Aged just 26, Kotian’s call-up for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 brings him to a new pinnacle as part of his cricketing journey built after years of arduous work, dogged persistence, and relentless commitment to cricketing. His rise to the Indian Cricket Team is a sign of India’s domestic cricket systems in producing world-class talent. From Local Streets To Professional Cricket Tanush Kotian’s cricketing journey started on the streets of Vikhroli, a suburb in Mumbai, where he honed his skills in the highly competitive environment of the city’s local cricket scene. A versatile player in his early years, Kotian began as an opening batsman and even bowled pace before a growth spurt pushed him to specialize in off-spin. His father, a semi-professional cricketer who runs a coaching academy, played a vital role in fostering his love for the game. Kotian Breaking Through With Mumbai Tanush Kotian’s breakthrough came when he joined Mumbai’s senior team in the 2022-2023 season after being dropped early in his career. Despite the setback, Kotian’s determination saw him rise through the ranks, leading to consistent performances that garnered attention. His off-spin bowling, along with his rise as a batsman, made him a true all-rounder. With his ability to extract turn and bounce at a pace of 85-90kph, Tanush Kotian’s bowling has often drawn comparisons with R. Ashwin, India’s legendary off-spinner. Tanush Kotian Shines In The Domestic Circuit Tanush Kotian’s stint with Mumbai in the season 2023-24 was nothing but phenomenal. He played a pivotal role in Mumbai’s historic Ranji Trophy victory, winning the Player-of-the-Tournament award with 502 runs and 29 wickets. His all-round brilliance included a memorable first-class century against Baroda, where he scored 120 runs off 115 balls at No. 10, setting a record 232-run partnership with Tushar Deshpande. His performances in the semi-finals and finals further stamped his reputation, with contributions like his 89* against Tamil Nadu and 7 wickets in the final against Vidarbha. Tanush Kotian’s India A Call-Up These performances not only helped Mumbai win the Ranji Trophy for the 42nd time but also caught the eye of the national selectors. A few months later, Kotian was selected for the India A team, which toured Australia ahead of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. His stellar performances in domestic cricket, coupled with his excellent temperament and technical abilities, made him a strong contender for a spot in the senior squad. Is Tanush Kotian Called-Up To Fill Ashwin’s Shoes? Tanush Kotian’s rise also coincided with the retirement of R. Ashwin from international cricket, as a move that opened a window of opportunity for such emerging spin bowlers like Kotian. Ashwin, whose impact on Indian spin bowling has been monumental, became a guide for Kotian when he joined Rajasthan Royals for the IPL 2024. Although Kotian didn’t feature much in the tournament, the learnings for the young cricketer must have been very rich indeed from people like Ashwin, Yuzvendra Chahal and Keshav Maharaj. It is well known that playing IPL helped him get more refined on how to play the spin bowlers in proper red-ball cricket. Rahane Backs Kotian Despite his success, Tanush Kotian remains focused on improving his skills. As Ajinkya Rahane, Mumbai’s captain, once told him, his next challenge is to continue evolving as a bowler who can take wickets even when conditions aren’t favorable for spin. This advice from Rahane reflects Kotian’s constant desire to push boundaries, a quality that will serve him well as he transitions to the international stage. Now all eyes would turn toward the promising newcomer as Tanush Kotian is scheduled to board for Melbourne to play with the Indian Cricket Team while hoping to behold the new chapter in India’s journey towards spin bowling legacy. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye