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England cricket team faces thorough ECB review after 4-1 Ashes defeat in Australia, with focus on preparation, performance, and future improvements.

England cricket board launches immediate review into Ashes debacle

England cricket team faces thorough ECB review after 4-1 Ashes defeat in Australia, with focus on preparation, performance, and future improvements.

The England and Wales Cricket Board said it had launched an immediate and "thorough" review following the tourists' defeat in the fifth and final Ashes Test on Thursday.
England's preparations, coaching and off-field behaviour all came under the microscope during a demoralising series in Australia which they lost 4-1.
As soon as the series was over, ECB chief executive Richard Gould released a statement calling the team's failure to regain the Ashes "deeply disappointing".
Gould said there were "moments of strong performance and resilience", notably victory in the fourth Test in Melbourne, which saved England from a humiliating series whitewash.
But he said: "We were not consistent enough across all conditions and phases of the contest and Australia ultimately deserved to retain the Ashes.
"We will take many lessons from this tour and are determined to improve quickly. Our focus is on regaining the Ashes in 2027.
"A thorough review of the campaign is already under way.
"This will cover tour planning and preparation, individual performance and behaviours, and our ability to adapt and respond effectively as circumstances require."
While captain Ben Stokes appears safe from the axe, the roles of head of cricket Rob Key and coach Brendon McCullum are set to come under the microscope.
British media, including the BBC, have reported that Key and McCullum are likely to survive to show they can make improvements to the England set-up.
"We will implement the necessary changes over the coming months," Gould added.
England's next Test assignment is not until June, at home to New Zealand.
Coming up fast is the T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka next month when McCullum will expect to be in charge of the squad, which will be captained by Harry Brook.

England captain Ben Stokes has pledged to continue in his role and backed coach Brendon McCullum following a crushing 4-1 Ashes defeat in Australia, admitting mistakes must be corrected.

Ben Stokes backs McCullum, vows to continue as England captain after Ashes loss

England captain Ben Stokes has pledged to continue in his role and backed coach Brendon McCullum following a crushing 4-1 Ashes defeat in Australia, admitting mistakes must be corrected.

Ben Stokes vowed Thursday to stay on as England captain and said he believes coach Brendon McCullum will too, while admitting there were "wrongs to put right" after a crushing 4-1 Ashes defeat.
England arrived for their long tour in November confident of a first series win in Australia since 2010-11.
But they quickly imploded, despite facing a depleted attack missing key quicks Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins.
A two-day defeat in Perth by eight wickets and another by the same margin at the pink-ball clash in Brisbane left them reeling and in the firing line at home.
An 82-run loss in Adelaide meant the Ashes were over within three Tests, with England's ultra-aggressive "Bazball" style ruthlessly exposed by the Australian conditions.
Stokes, who was a rare bright spot for England, intends to continue as captain.
"Definitely, I'm as keen as anything to carry on," he said after defeat in the fifth and final Test in Sydney by five wickets.
England at least won the fourth Test in Melbourne to avoid a whitewash.
"I've loved having a challenge thrown at me," said Stokes.
"And at the moment the challenge is getting the team back to where we once were in terms of the performances that we were delivering."
They will face an inquisition when they get home with the England Cricket Board under pressure to act.
Stokes said he expected New Zealander McCullum to still be in the job when they next play a Test in June.
"I do expect him to be, but that's not my decision. If I'm asked my opinion, he'll be getting my full support and backing," he said.
"I absolutely love working with Baz. He's a great man and he's a very, very, very good coach."
McCullum agreed there were "areas to improve" but said he won't be told what to do.
"I will look at it individually and say, 'What could I have done better?'," he told the BBC.
"Am I for being told what to do? Of course I am not."
 - Glimpse of hope -
Whoever remains in the fallout, Stokes acknowledged they had a lot of work ahead of them.
"We could have played much better than what we did," he said.
"The time for reflection is not right now. We've got a long time away to reflect on it. Come June when we next play, hopefully we can put the wrongs right."
Despite the heavy series defeat there were a few plus points for England, who lost fast bowlers Mark Wood, Jofra Archer and Gus Atkinson to injury at various points.
Seamer Josh Tongue came in and was admirable while 22-year-old Jacob Bethell produced a magnificent 154 in Sydney after replacing the out-of-form Ollie Pope.
"Incredible for Beth to get his opportunity in the last game of the series," said Stokes.
"To come out in the fifth game of the series and the way he batted was a terrific effort.
"Josh also put in his best and bowled really well so we have good talents coming through."

Australia’s Usman Khawaja admitted it was hard to control his emotions in his final Test, celebrating a 4-1 Ashes series win and reflecting on his 15-year, 88-Test career.

Australia's emotional Usman Khawaja bows out for final time with Ashes win

Australia&rsquo;s Usman Khawaja admitted it was hard to control his emotions in his final Test, celebrating a 4-1 Ashes series win and reflecting on his 15-year, 88-Test career.

Australia batsman Usman Khawaja admitted he found it hard to control his emotions after playing the final Test of a distinguished 88-Test career on Thursday.
The 39-year-old was given a guard of honour by the England players when he walked out to bat for the final time at the Sydney Cricket Ground, with visiting captain Ben Stokes shaking his hand.
His farewell did not go as planned, out for six in the fifth Ashes Test, but Khawaja said it was a memorable occasion after a decorated 15-year career and more than 6,000 runs.
"It means a lot. The only thing I wanted was a win," he said on Fox Sports after Australia won the final Ashes Test by five wickets to seal the series 4-1.
"Grateful for the one last final win and to celebrate with my teammates.
"It was very tough, I was trying to act cool but the whole Test match I found it really hard to control my emotions. I found it hard to concentrate.
"I'm glad that we got over the line and it's something I'll cherish for the rest of my life. I can just relax now."
It culminated a career where it began after Khawaja made his debut at the SCG in 2011, also against England.
Khawaja immigrated to Australia from Islamabad as a child, battling the odds to become the country's first Pakistan-born, and first Muslim, national player.
At one point, he was the only Asian first-class player in Australia and is credited as a role model who opened doors for others.
Khawaja, a qualified pilot, plundered 16 centuries, averaging more than 43.
He also played 40 one-dayers and nine Twenty20 internationals.
"Some people have lost family, I am lucky my parents are still around. My family, my wife, my kids and another one on the way," he said.
"I love the game of cricket but life outside cricket has been more important.
"Few dicey runs there with a little bit of pressure, but we got the job done in the end."

Australia defeated England by five wickets in the final Ashes Test to clinch a 4-1 series victory, giving retiring Usman Khawaja a memorable farewell at home.

Australia win fifth Ashes Test to complete 4-1 series victory over England

Australia defeated England by five wickets in the final Ashes Test to clinch a 4-1 series victory, giving retiring Usman Khawaja a memorable farewell at home.

Australia clinched the final Ashes Test against England Thursday by five wickets to complete a dominant 4-1 victory after a gruelling series, sending the retiring Usman Khawaja out on a high.
The nervy hosts saw wickets tumble as they chased their 160 target, which they reached after lunch on day five with Cameron Green not out 22 and Alex Carey on 16.
"That's Ashes cricket. Everyone got tense," said Carey who hit the winning runs.
"Usman is going to be missed. A great career and a great way to finish."
Australia lost openers Travis Head (29) and Jake Weatherald (34), along with captain Steve Smith (12) and Khawaja who made six in his final knock before retirement.
"It means a lot. So much has gone into it. The only thing I wanted was a win, as much as I wanted to hit the winning runs," said Khawaja, who was almost in tears as he walked off to a standing ovation after being bowled by Josh Tongue.
"The whole Test match I found it hard to control my emotions," Khawaja added after his 88th and final appearance on the Test stage.
"I'm grateful I've had the career I've had. I have full gratitude," he said, adding that Australia were relieved to have got over the winning line.
"It definitely got a bit too tight. You never count your chickens. We got the job done though."
Marnus Labuschagne, dropped on 20, compiled 37 before needlessly running himself out to give Ben Stokes's men a flicker of hope as they reduced Australia to 121-5.
But victory was never seriously in doubt after England were dismissed for 342 on the back of Jacob Bethell's stylish 154.
 - England horror show -
Defeat ended a long tour for the visitors that quickly turned into a horror show when they lost the opening two Tests in Perth and Brisbane by eight wickets and the third at Adelaide by 82 runs.
Stokes's side had arrived confident they could win their first series in Australia since 2010-11 amid taunts about the hosts having their worst side in 15 years.
Facing heavy criticism over their preparations, discipline and ultra-aggressive "Bazball" style of cricket, they rallied to pull off a stunning four-wicket comeback win in the fourth Test in Melbourne.
It was their first victory in 18 Tests on Australian soil and restored some pride, but another loss in Sydney, albeit close, will see them face a tough inquisition on their return home with coach Brendon McCullum's job on the line.
Australia achieved their success despite being without pace spearhead Josh Hazlewood for the series and Pat Cummins for all but one Test, while veteran spin king Nathan Lyon played a limited role.
Nearly 860,000 fans watched the series with a record 211,032 through the turnstiles in Sydney.
 - Tempers flare -
Tempers flared earlier when Weatherald survived a review for caught behind on 16 despite the controversial Snicko technology, which has been unreliable all series, appearing to indicate a faint murmur.
An angry Carse had to be pulled away from complaining to the on-field umpire by Stokes and the bowler exchanged heated words with Weatherald.
England finally got their reward when Head swiped Tongue to Carse at midwicket and Weatherland top-edged the same bowler to Matthew Potts.
Smith was bamboozled by a turning ball by spinner Will Jacks and Khawaja, after being given a guard of honour by England when he walked out for the final time, played on.
England resumed on 302-8 with a 119-run advantage and added 40.
Precocious number three Bethell, trumpeted as the future of English cricket, padded up on 142 with Potts yet to score.
He reached 150 before edging Mitchell Starc to wicketkeeper Carey to end a breakthrough innings, with his marathon 265-ball stay including 15 fours.
Tongue was the last man out for six, again to Starc, with Potts unbeaten on 18.
It was Starc's 31st wicket of the series, more than any other bowler.
Australia were all out for 567 in their first innings on Wednesday on the back of centuries from Head and Smith in reply to the tourists' 384, built on Joe Root's 160.

Jacob Bethell scored his maiden Test century to lift England to a 119-run lead against Australia in the fifth Ashes Test at Sydney.

Bethell slams maiden century to leave final Ashes Test on knife edge

Jacob Bethell scored his maiden Test century to lift England to a 119-run lead against Australia in the fifth Ashes Test at Sydney.

Rock-solid Jacob Bethell plundered a chanceless maiden Test century Wednesday as England reeled in Australia then built a tenuous 119-run lead to leave the fifth and final Ashes Test on a knife edge.
By stumps on day four at the Sydney Cricket Ground, the tourists were 302-8 with Bethell not out 142 and Matthew Potts yet to score.
The 22-year-old Bethell saved the day after Zak Crawley fell early and veteran Joe Root cheaply, powering to his hundred in style off 162 balls.
But wickets tumbled around him with Harry Brook (42) and Will Jacks (0) removed in the space of three balls by the part-time off-spin of Beau Webster two overs after Bethell reached the landmark.
"I certainly didn't think I would (impact) with spin this game," said Webster, who is more usually employed as a seaming all-rounder, but had figures of 3-51.
"That's the way it goes sometimes."
Australia opted not to play a specialist spinner, but Webster said the pitch had begun to take turn.
"There was a bit of wear and tear there from Starcy's footmarks and we managed to make the most of it in that session.
"I was just trying to bowl my best ball. I don't bowl them a hell of a lot."
A calamitous mix-up then saw Jamie Smith (24) run out.
Ben Stokes (1) came in at seven after limping off clutching what appeared to be his groin while bowling the third over of the day, but only lasted five balls with Webster again doing the damage.
England are desperate for another morale-boosting win after victory in the previous Test at Melbourne. Australia lead 3-1 and have already retained the Ashes.
Remarkably, it was not just Bethell's maiden Test ton but the only one he has scored in red-ball cricket, with his previous best 96 against New Zealand.
Bethell was recalled for Melbourne to replace the under-performing Ollie Pope, scoring a gritty 40 in difficult batting conditions with the number three position now his to lose.
His exploits came after the hosts were dismissed for 567 before lunch on the back of Travis Head's 163 and 138 from skipper Steve Smith.
That left England chasing a 183-run deficit after their first innings 384.
 - Starc strikes early -
They needed a solid start, but chief tormentor Mitchell Starc once again conjured up a first-over breakthrough -- his 29th wicket for the series.
The pace spearhead delivered a beautiful inswinger that Crawley misjudged and left, with the ball smacking his pads and he was out lbw for one.
Fellow opener Ben Duckett was dropped on 38, but failed to capitalise and was bowled by Michael Neser on 42, his highest score in a wretched series.
Root, fresh from his first innings 160, was terrorised by Starc and Neser.
He finally fell lbw after facing 37 balls for his six runs to the relentless Scott Boland, with the 35-year-old trudging off dejected.
But Bethell proved unmovable.
A single off Neser overhauled Australia's lead soon after tea and the youngster passed three figures emphatically with a cracking boundary through midwicket.
But Webster then swung the momentum back to Australia with his double strike, trapping Brook lbw before Jacks inexplicably holed out to Cameron Green in the deep.
Smith's run-out compounded England's problems, the wicketkeeper-batsman setting off for a single but sent back by Bethell and caught well short by Jake Weatherald's throw.
Stokes edged Webster to Smith in the slips with Brydon Carse doing the same off Boland on 16.
Australia resumed at 518-7, with Smith on 129 after his 13th Ashes century -- more than any other player except the legendary Don Bradman -- and Webster on 42.
Smith flogged Stokes through the covers for a boundary in his first over, while Webster dished out similar treatment to Carse.
But the Australia skipper did not last long, nicking a fuller length delivery from Josh Tongue to wicketkeeper Jamie Smith.
Webster reached a fifth half-century in his eighth Test with a single and put on 20 with Starc before the big paceman was bowled by Tongue for five.
Boland suffered a golden duck to leave Webster unbeaten on 71.
Tongue ended with 3-97 and Carse 3-130.

Joe Root’s masterful 160 helps England reach 384 in fifth Ashes Test, while Travis Head’s unbeaten 91 brings Australia back into contest at SCG.

5th Test: Travis Head hits back for Australia after Root's majestic 160

Joe Root&rsquo;s masterful 160 helps England reach 384 in fifth Ashes Test, while Travis Head&rsquo;s unbeaten 91 brings Australia back into contest at SCG.

An imperious Joe Root hit a magnificent 160 to drive England to 384 in the fifth and final Ashes Test on Monday before Travis Head let rip to haul Australia back into the contest with a rapid-fire unbeaten 91.
Root's superb innings, his 41st ton to match Ricky Ponting, was only ended courtesy of a brilliant caught-and-bowled by Michael Neser, who finished with 4-60.
Australia were left to negotiate the final session of day two at a sold-out Sydney Cricket Ground, which they did for the loss of Jake Weatherald (21) and Marnus Labuschagne (48).
By stumps the hosts -- who have already won the series -- had raced to 166-2 with nightwatchman Neser on one alongside Head.
"I think it's set interestingly," Root told TNT Sports.
He added: "Most important for us is not panicking, not dwelling too much on what happened here.
"It's how we respond tomorrow morning and maximise that chance first up."
Weatherald, who needed a big score to stave off the critics, again failed to live up to expectations since making his debut at the first Test in Perth.
He was dropped twice in the space of three balls, by Root then Ben Duckett, before Ben Stokes trapped him lbw.
But Head, who like Root has slammed two centuries this series, was in the zone.
He clattered three boundaries off the second over from Matthew Potts, in the side for the injured Gus Atkinson, and there was no let-up, blitzing a quickfire 50 off 55 balls.
Labuschagne was also in good touch, stroking seven boundaries before thick-edging Stokes to Jacob Bethell at gully.
Labuschagne and Stokes had clashed between overs, with the England captain aiming an expletive at the batsman.
The hosts lead the series 3-1 and have already retained the Ashes, with England desperate for another win after victory at the previous Test in Melbourne.
"Fresh start tomorrow," said Neser.
"But the wicket seems to be quickening up just a little bit, so we're going to be mindful of that tomorrow."
 - Root joins Ponting &nbsp;-
England resumed at 211-3 but lost Harry Brook (84), Stokes (0) and Jamie Smith (46) before lunch.
Will Jacks (27), Brydon Carse (1) and Josh Tongue (0), along with Root, departed in the second session.
The day belonged to Root, who started on 72 and reached an almost chanceless century off 146 balls to reaffirm his status as an all-time great.
The 35-year-old had begun the series under pressure after failing to make a hundred in Australia over three previous Ashes tours.
He snapped the drought with an unbeaten 138 in the day-night Test at Brisbane and his exploits in Sydney drew him level third with Australia's Ponting on the all-time century-makers' list, with 41.
Only India's Sachin Tendulkar (51) and South Africa's Jacques Kallis (45) have scored more Test centuries.
Root and Brook came together with England in trouble at 57-3 on Sunday, with both eyeing big centuries on an ideal batting deck.
But Brook only lasted five balls on Monday, adding six to his overnight 78 before dabbing at a Scott Boland delivery and edging into the safe hands of Steve Smith at slip.
It ended a 169-run partnership, not just England's best of the series but the biggest by either team, surpassing Head and Alex Carey's 162 in Adelaide.
Stokes only survived 11 balls before getting the faintest of edges off Mitchell Starc to Carey.
Jamie Smith lived dangerously and was fortunate to survive after chipping Cameron Green to Labuschagne at cover on 22. He began walking off but replays showed Green overstepped and it was a no-ball.
He added another 24 before medium-pacer Labuschagne bagged him in his first over.
The run rate slowed significantly after lunch when the new ball was taken, but Root persisted, passing 150 for a 17th time, just one behind the legendary Don Bradman and three short of Tendulkar.
He and Jacks put on 52 for the seventh wicket until Jacks sent a leading edge to Green in the gully off Neser. Root was ninth man out and Tongue followed without any addition to the score.

Australian opener Usman Khawaja will retire from international cricket after the final Ashes Test, reflecting on his career as Australia’s first Muslim Test cricketer and speaking out against racial stereotyping.

Usman Khawaja Retires: Reflects on Ashes Legacy and Racial Challenges

Usman Khawaja Retires After Final Ashes Test

Australian opener Usman Khawaja will retire from international cricket after the final Ashes Test, reflecting on his career as Australia&rsquo;s first Muslim Test cricketer and speaking out against racial stereotyping.

Usman Khawaja said Friday he will retire from international cricket after the fifth and final Ashes clash against England, leaving a legacy as Australia's first Muslim Test cricketer while lashing out at perceived "racial stereotyping" during his 15-year career.
The 39-year-old will pad up for the last time, should he be selected, when the Test gets under way in Sydney on Sunday, ending months of speculation about his future.
It would be an 88th Test for the classy left-hander, culminating a career where it began after making his debut at the Sydney Cricket Ground in 2011, also against England.
"The number one emotion is contentment. I'm very lucky to have played so many games for Australia the way I have," Khawaja said. "I hope I have inspired people along the way.
"I'm a proud Muslim coloured boy from Pakistan who was told that he would never play for the Australian cricket team. Look at me now, and you can do the same," he added.
Khawaja immigrated to Australia from Islamabad as a child, battling the odds to become the country's first Pakistan-born, and first Muslim, national player.
At one point, he was the only Asian first-class player in Australia and is credited as a role model who opened doors for others.
"Usman has made a huge contribution to Australian cricket both through his outstanding achievements as one of our most stylish and resilient batters since his Test debut 15 years ago, and off field, particularly through the Usman Khawaja Foundation," said Cricket Australia chief Todd Greenberg.
"On behalf of Australian cricket I would like to thank and congratulate Usman for all he has achieved."
Khawaja's foundation helps youths from refugee, immigrant, Indigenous, and poor socioeconomic backgrounds through introductory cricket programs and educational support.
 -- 'Attacked me' --
Khawaja, a qualified pilot, has plundered 6,206 runs in Test cricket with 16 centuries, averaging 43.39.
He smashed a career-high 232 against Sri Lanka a year ago, but has not made three figures since.
The current Ashes series has been a rollercoaster ride, with the veteran batsman coming under scrutiny.
He injured his back in the first Test in Perth and was replaced as opener in the second innings by Travis Head who blasted a match-winning century.
Khawaja did not feature in the next match at Brisbane and was omitted from the team for the third Test in Adelaide, only to get a lifeline when Steve Smith dropped out ill just before the toss.
He came in at number four and hit 82 and 40 before making 29 and 0 in the fourth Test at Melbourne.
"I'm glad I get to leave on amy own terms, with a little bit of dignity, and go out at the SCG where I love," he said, while expressing frustration at how he was treated.
"When I did my back (in Perth), I hurt my back and had back spasms and it was something I couldn't control.
"The way the media and past players came out and attacked me. I could have copped it for a couple of days but it went on for five days.
"The way everyone came out at me about my preparation, 'he's not committed to the team. Only worried about himself. Playing a golf competition. He's selfish, he didn't train hard enough. He's lazy'.
"These are the same racial stereotypes (I thought we had moved past).
"But obviously we haven't fully moved past that. I haven't seen anyone treated like that in the Australian cricket team before."
He nevertheless admitted the writing was on the wall during the current Ashes series.
"Going into Adelaide and then not being picked initially for that game was probably a sign for me to say 'all right, it's time to move on'," he said.
Khawaja also played 40 one-dayers and nine Twenty20 internationals.

Virat Kohli's poor form continues in the Sydney Test as he is dismissed for 17 runs, while India are bowled out for 185. 

Kohli's Form Dips Further, First Innings Average Lower Than Bumrah's

This poor run has seen him outscored by his teammate, pacer Jasprit Bumrah, who is now averaging more runs than Kohli in the series after contributing with a valuable 22 in a late innings partnership.

Virat Kohli's struggles in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy continue as he faces challenges Down Under, a place that has typically been a fruitful venue for him. The Sydney Cricket Ground saw another disappointing outing for the Indian batter, where he only managed to score 17 runs before falling to an outside-off delivery from Scott Boland. This marks yet another lackluster performance in what has been a tough year for Kohli in Test cricket.
Since missing the England series earlier in the year, Kohli has had a rough run, especially in the first innings of Test matches. Across five such innings against Bangladesh, New Zealand, and Australia towards the end of 2024, Kohli has managed only 35 runs. In fact, his batting average in first innings stands at a worrying 7.00, placing him among the lowest for players with five or more innings since the start of 2024. Keshav Maharaj sits at the bottom with an average of 5.33, but Kohli&rsquo;s average is still dangerously low in comparison to others, including specialist batters like Aiden Markram.
Kohli&rsquo;s inability to cope with deliveries outside the off stump has continued to haunt him, and his frustration was evident after a decent start that eventually led to another failure. This poor run has seen him outscored by his teammate, pacer Jasprit Bumrah, who is now averaging more runs than Kohli in the series after contributing with a valuable 22 in a late innings partnership.
ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.editorji.com/sports-news/cricket/sydney-test-india-vs-australia-bgt-day-1-1735881246090" target="_blank">Sydney Test: Australia 9/1 at Stumps as India bowled out for 185 on day one</a> 
India&rsquo;s total of 185 saw Rishabh Pant as the top scorer with 40 runs, but despite Kohli's slump, there is optimism within the camp. The pitch in Sydney, with plenty of assistance for the bowlers, promises a potential turnaround, as Bumrah and the other pacers will hope to replicate their success from Perth earlier in the series.

India faced a tough opening day in the fifth Test against Australia. Rishabh Pant showed grit with a battling 32 despite enduring blows, while Virat Kohli's persistent issues outside the off-stump added to India's woes.

India struggles as Australia dominates Day 1 of fifth Test

India captain Rohit Sharma rested himself from the series finale with Jasprit Bumrah walking out for the toss in his place.

Rohit Sharma "opted to rest" in the team's interest but the same old script unfolded on a new day for Indian batters as they surrendered meekly for a paltry 185 in the face of some hostile seam bowling from Australia on the opening day of the fifth and final Test in Sydney.
Virat Kohli (17 off 69 balls), whose form and technical weaknesses are also under the scanner, was for the seventh time dismissed in the corridor of uncertainty in the tour, a problem that seems incurable at the moment. WATCH: <a href="https://www.editorji.com/sports-news/cricket/watch-virat-kohli-and-steve-smith-s-heated-exchange-after-controversial-catch-at-scg-1735892419675" target="_blank">Virat Kohli and Steve Smith's heated exchange after controversial catch at SCG</a>
At stumps, Australia were 9 for 1 with stand-in skipper Jasprit Bumrah sending the woefully out-of-form Usman Khawaja (2) back in the hut.
Teenage sensation Sam Konstas was unbeaten at 7 after hitting Bumrah for a first-ball four. The 19-year-old also had an animated exchange with the Indian star.
Bumrah opted to bat under overcast conditions and the ultra-defensive approach by Indian batters only compounded their problems with Scott Boland's (20-8-31-4) immaculate length and tremendous discipline leaving them in a disarray.
Mitchell Starc (18-5-49-3) and Pat Cummins (15.2-4-37-2) were equally relentless giving the Indians no room for release shots.
Rishabh Pant top-scored for the visitors with a 98-ball 40, going against his grain to battle it out, taking painful blows to his body in the process.
If Rohit's decision to "rest" was a forward thinking move, the persistence with Kohli is proving to be detrimental and the celebrated batter might just have one more Test innings left to save his place in the traditional format.
"I wouldn't say it's a par score but still a competitive score," said Pant, admitting that the pitch is not easy to bat on.
If one takes away the second innings hundred at Perth out of his last 20 Test innings, Kohli has managed an average of 17.57.
He could have been out off Boland's first delivery but tried to battle hard. However, it has always been that one moment in which his hands and the willow magnetically follow a delivery in the corridor of uncertainty.
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Pant curbs natural instincts for a session
Having copped criticism from all quarters for his bizarre shot selection in Melbourne, Pant, for a change, copped body blows, trying to curb his natural game.
The big-hitter in him came out only on a couple of occasions with one of them fetching him a straight six off Beau Webster.
Pant put his head down and endured nasty blows on his bicep, helmet and twice in the sensitive abdominal area. He and the dogged Ravindra Jadeja (26 off 95 balls) defended dourly as they added 48 off 151 deliveries for the fifth wicket.
Only 50 runs were scored in the second session and trying not to be adventurous proved counter-productive with most batters retreating in a shell letting Boland and company dictate the terms of play.
Finally, Pant's patience ran out and one pull shot too many became his undoing.
India realised they haven't scored enough runs and lost a lot of wickets. The defensive tactic in the second session when the ball got old ended up costing them dearly.
There wasn't much swing on offer despite cloudy conditions but a decent grass cover ensured that Boland's back-of-length deliveries proved enough.
As far as Pant was concerned, the "honest conversations" with head coach Gautam Gambhir seemed to have worked with the southpaw respecting the game situation for most part.
If Pant was disciplined, Shubman Gill's judgement on the last delivery before lunch did cause trouble for India.
Gill (20 off 64 balls) did all the hard work for close to couple of hours before stepping out to Nathan Lyon on the last ball of the session only to be caught at first slip.
In the morning KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal came in to open the innings but didn't last long and the saga of first innings failures continued.

Virat Kohli survived a controversial third umpire decision on the opening day of the Sydney Test against Australia. Steve Smith's stunning catch was ruled not out after the third umpire determined the ball had touched the ground.

Watch: Virat Kohli and Steve Smith's heated exchange after controversial catch at SCG

Smith&rsquo;s swift reaction had the Australian players celebrating, but the on-field umpire referred the decision to the third umpire for further review.

On the opening day of the fifth Test between India and Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground, Virat Kohli narrowly escaped a dismissal, providing fans with a dramatic moment in the match.
The day began with a surprising move, as regular captain Rohit Sharma was rested and star pacer Jasprit Bumrah took over as the stand-in captain for this critical Test.
India's batting woes started early, as openers Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul were both dismissed quickly, leaving the team in a tough position. Kohli then joined Shubman Gill at the crease and faced a challenging moment right away.
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
Just missed a beat there! 🥶 ICYMI, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ViratKohli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ViratKohli</a> was dropped by <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SteveSmith?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SteveSmith</a> on the very first ball he faced!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvINDOnStar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvINDOnStar</a> 👉 5th Test, Day 1 LIVE NOW! | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ToughestRivalry?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ToughestRivalry</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BorderGavaskarTrophy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BorderGavaskarTrophy</a> <a href="https://t.co/iLhCzXCYST">pic.twitter.com/iLhCzXCYST</a>
&mdash; Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/StarSportsIndia/status/1874992007812432286?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2025</a></blockquote>
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On the very first ball he faced, Scott Boland, the Australian pacer, nearly had Kohli caught. The ball edged off Kohli's bat and flew to Steve Smith at second slip, who made a spectacular diving catch to dismiss the Indian batter.
Smith&rsquo;s swift reaction had the Australian players celebrating, but the on-field umpire referred the decision to the third umpire for further review.
The third umpire&rsquo;s analysis showed that the ball had initially touched the ground before Smith managed to get his hands on it, leading to Kohli being given a crucial lifeline. This reprieve allowed Kohli to continue batting, avoiding an early exit.
After the over, Kohli and Smith exchanged words, with tensions running high over the controversial incident. 
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
"100%. No denying it whatsoever." Steve Smith weighs in on whether he got his hand underneath the ball in the biggest moment of the morning. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/bqIy8iGIRm">pic.twitter.com/bqIy8iGIRm</a>
&mdash; cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1874994592967176496?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2025</a></blockquote>
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During the lunch break, Smith spoke up about the incident, defending his actions. He remained firm in his belief that he had successfully caught the ball, claiming that his hands were beneath it and that it was a legitimate catch.
However, former Australian captain Ricky Ponting disagreed with the third umpire&rsquo;s decision, expressing his opinion during the live commentary. "As far as I was concerned, if (the ball) had've come out of (Smith's) hand, he wouldn't have been able to scoop it up. That's what I'm saying, I think his fingers are clearly underneath the ball... look where his pointer figure is there, it's still underneath the ball," Ponting remarked on-air during the commentary with 7Cricket.
The dramatic incident became a hot topic of conversation, sparking debate over the umpire's decision and fueling discussions about the fairness of the catch. Despite the controversy, Kohli&rsquo;s escape added intrigue to what promised to be an action-packed day of cricket.

As India prepares for the final Test against Australia, speculation surrounds Rohit Sharma's place in the team due to poor form, while Rishabh Pant’s shot selection could see him dropped.

Pressure mounts on Rohit Sharma as India braces for must-win Sydney Test

There are reports that Rishabh Pant's shot selection has invited the wrath of Gambhir, who is now planning a rap on the knuckles by dropping him in favour of Dhruv Jurel.

Battered by extra bounce and seam movement along with scathing criticism of his leadership, India skipper Rohit Sharma's career as a Test cricketer seems headed for a dispiriting climax amid swirling speculation that he is set to be dropped from the fifth and final Test against Australia starting here on Friday.
Rohit, just like Melbourne, was last among recognised batters to enter the nets but this was after head coach Gautam Gambhir refused to confirm whether the out-of-form skipper will be at the toss on Friday morning.
"We will take a call on the playing XI after looking at the pitch," Gambhir gave a cryptic reply to a straight query on whether Rohit will play.
If it happens, Rohit will become the first Indian captain to be dropped on account of poor form and he would have none to blame except for the abysmal return of 31 runs from five innings.
Should this happen, pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah, who has been the team's top performer with an astonishing 30 wickets in four outings at a sub-20 average, will take over the leadership role. It was under Bumrah's captaincy that India won its only Test on the tour so far -- the lung-opener in Perth.
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Where would that leave Rohit?
Mahendra Singh Dhoni and Anil Kumble walked into Test retirements mid-series as their bodies could no longer take the rigours of the longest format.
However, in Rohit's case, he will be dropped on the basis of form after Gambhir made it clear that performance is the only thing that would keep a player in the dressing room helmed by him.
If he doesn't come out for toss on Friday, it would be safe to conclude that Rohit, the Test batter, played his last knock at the MCG earlier this week where he looked completely out of place on a good track.
While Gambhir didn't spell out the playing eleven, there were enough indications that India might bring back Shubman Gill at number three.
"Indian cricket's transition is in safe hands as long as there are honest people in the dressing room. Only criteria to be in that dressing room is performance," Gambhir said at the pre-match press conference.
Trailing 1-2, a win for Australia will seal their place in the final at the Lord's against South Africa.
India, on other hand, not only require a win but also need Sri Lanka to not lose any of their two Tests at home against Pat Cummins' men.
The visitors aren't looking like a team at ease right now especially Rohit, who is caught between a rock and a hard place both as skipper and batter.
He may or may not announce retirement but playing the traditional format after Sydney looks a long shot.
Add to this, the murmurs of dissension in the team that could have a bearing on how the players perform.
The implosion started with Ravichandran Ashwin retiring and going back home midway through the series and Rohit's poor form has certainly made him lose a bit of command.
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Rishabh Pant in line of fire
There are reports that Rishabh Pant's shot selection has invited the wrath of Gambhir, who is now planning a rap on the knuckles by dropping him in favour of Dhruv Jurel.
If Pant is indeed axed from the game, it would be a redux of the time when legendary all-rounder Kapil Dev was taught a lesson for his poor shot selection during a 1984 tour of England with a similar omission.
During practice on Thursday, Jurel got the same net time as his senior.
When an Australian reporter asked if had some stern words for the boys post the 184-run drubbing in Melbourne, Gambhir didn't deny having an "honest conversation" and also stressed on the need to play for the team's cause.
Pant was also seen engaged in a long conversation with vice captain Jasprit Bumrah.
India will also have to make one change owing to Akash Deep's stiff back that has forced him out.
The coach's favourite Harshit Rana could be in but with his questionable consistency and drop in speed in the second and third spells, Prasidh Krishna can't be ruled out either.
In this backdrop, facing an Australian team with Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne back in form isn't an easy proposition.
"I haven't actually noticed as I am in my own bubble," Pat Cummins said when asked about whether he noticed that in the rival camp, another out-of-form batter Virat Kohli has been looking more proactive in the leadership role than the regular skipper.
The Australian team will be handing a debut to all-rounder Beau Webster, who would replace an off-colour Mitchell Marsh who hasn't scored much runs throughout the series.
"There is one change with Beau Webster coming in place of Mitch Marsh. Mitch knows that he hasn't scored enough runs," the home skipper informed.
Cummins will also have Mitchell Starc for company as he has been cleared after back scans.
The pitch, according to Cummims, is seamer-friendly. He said the fast bowlers are "happy with the surface".
Despite the challenging build-up, Gambhir said he is "extremely confident" of retaining the Border Gavaskar Trophy. The players will hope to be as confident as they prepare for the fight to keep their World Test Final chances alive.
Teams (from):
Australia: Pat Cummins (captain), Sam Konstas, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Alex Carey (wk), Beau Webster, Mitchell Starc, Scott Boland and Nathan Lyon
India: Rohit Sharma (captain), Jasprit Bumrah (vice captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant (wk), Dhruv Jurel (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Siraj, Harshit Rana, Prasidh Krishna, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Tanush Kotian, Sarfaraz Khan.
Match starts at 5 am IST.

India pacer Akash Deep ruled out of the fifth Test against Australia due to a stiff back. India trails 1-2 in the series and needs a win to retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Replacement options include Harshit Rana or Prasidh Krishna.

Akash Deep Ruled Out of Fifth Test Against Australia

India trail 1-2 in the five-match series and need to win the fifth and final game to retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

India pacer Akash Deep was on Thursday ruled out of the the fifth and final Test against Australia starting here on Friday owing to a stiff back.
Akash had taken five wickets from two Tests in Brisbane and Melbourne so far. He was a bit unlucky to not get more as multiple catches were dropped off his bowling during the two games.
" Akash Deep is out with back issue," India coach Gautam Gambhir said in the pre-match press conference here.
Gambhir said the playing XI would be decided after taking a look at the pitch.
The 28-year-old right-arm pacer bowled a total of 87.5 overs across two Test matches and his niggle could be a result of the heavier than usual workload he has endured.
The hard Australian grounds can cause knee, ankle and back issues for pacers.
Either Harshit Rana or Prasidh Krishna could make it to the eleven in place of Akash.
India trail 1-2 in the five-match series and need to win the fifth and final game to retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

India's head coach Gautam Gambhir emphasizes the importance of private dressing room debates, honest conversations, and performance as key to staying in the team.

Gautam Gambhir Prioritizes Honesty and Performance in Indian Cricket

Gambhir also confirmed that pacer Akash Deep will miss the New Year Test with a stiff back, though he refrained from naming a replacement for him.

Asserting that "debates" in the dressing room should not come out in public domain, India head coach Gautam Gambhir on Thursday said he has had some "honest" conversations with his players as only performance can help them stay in the set-up.
Gambhir also side-stepped queries on whether out-of-form skipper Rohit Sharma will get a place in the final XI for the fifth and final Test against Australia starting on Friday.
Amid speculation of unrest in the dressing room, the feisty head coach sought to douse the fire by declaring that they were "just reports, not truth".
"Debates between coach and player should remain in dressing room. Stern words. They were just reports not truth," Gambhir said in the pre-match press meet here.
"Indian cricket will be in safe hands till honest people stay in the dressing room. Only thing that keeps you in the dressing room is performance," he added.
"There were honest words and honesty is important," he asserted.
Gambhir refused to say whether Rohit will get a place in the team. The question thrown at him was why the captain had not come to address the match-eve press conference as is the norm and if he is there in the final XI.
"Everything is fine with Rohit. The head coach is here and that should be enough. We will decide on the playing XI after looking at the pitch," Gambhir said.
The former opener also said his discussions with senior batter Virat Kohli and Rohit have only been about strategies to win the ongoing Test series.
"Every individual knows what are the areas to work on. We have only had one conversation with them (and that is) how to win Test matches," he said.
Gambhir also confirmed that pacer Akash Deep will miss the New Year Test with a stiff back, though he refrained from naming a replacement for him.
Although he refused to analyse individuals when asked about the questionable shot selection of players like Rishabh Pant in crunch situations, Gambhir did assert that the team's interest is paramount.
"I don't want to talk about individuals. Team first ideology matters. People can play natural game but in team sport, individuals only contribute," he said.

Cricket Australia unveiled a sculpture of the former women's team captain in the Sydney Cricket Ground precinct.

WATCH: Australia's Belinda Clark becomes first woman cricketer honoured with sculpture

Australian legend Belinda Clark, who captained the national side for a period of 12 years, became the first woman cricketer in the world to be honoured with a sculpture.


Australia's Belinda Clark becomes first woman cricketer honoured with sculpture

Cricket Australia unveiled a sculpture of the former women's team captain in the Sydney Cricket Ground precinct.

Former Australia captain and world cup winner Belinda Clark became the first woman cricketer to be honoured with a sculpture.
Cricket Australia unveiled a sculpture of Clark in the Sydney Cricket Ground precinct on Thursday.
Clark was the captain of Australia for a period of twelve years and won two ICC Women's World Cup trophies. The Australian is also a member of the ICC Hall of Fame.
Also read: <a href="https://www.editorji.com/sports-news/football/premier-league-bhupinder-singh-gill-scripts-english-football-history-1672886479407">Premier League: Bhupinder Singh Gill scripts English football history</a>

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