James Faulkner’s attempt to engage India’s Virat Kohli in a war of words during the third ODI here backfired on the Australian paceman as the star batsman emphatically told him to just keep bowling as “I have smashed you enough in my life”.
“You’re wasting your energy. There’s no point, I’ve smashed you enough in my life. Just go and bowl,” Kohli was heard telling Faulkner, who challenged the Indian to go after his bowling.
“Smile. Having fun aren’t we”IJ the Australian responded.
The incident happened as Kohli completed a single at the non-striker’s end when Faulkner was returning to his bowling mark in the 35th over of the Indian innings. Faulkner tried to instigate Kohli, who is also known for his aggressive attitude, and the batsman responded in kind. Their utterances were caught in the stump microphone.
Tait back for T20, lyon in ODI
In wilderness for five years, pacer Shaun Tait on Monday made a stunning return to Australia’s power-packed squad for the three-match Twenty20 series against India while off-spinner Nathan lyon was brought in for the remaining two ODIs against the visitors.
With one eye on the World Twenty20 in India in March, the Australian selectors named a 17-strong squad for the T20 series against Dhoni’s side starting January 26 in Adelaide.
Australia have opted for lyon’s services in place of young pacer Joel Paris in the 13-member squad while vice-captain and opener David Warner also returns to the team from paternity leave to replace Usman Khawaja.
Cricket Australia also made wholesome changes in the T20 squad for the three-match series. Steven Smith and Warner will play only in the opening match in Adelaide before sitting out in the next two games to prepare for the first ODI against New Zealand on Feb 3.
The major surprises come in the form of Tait and Shane Watson.