<p>Team India won the second and penultimate T20I versus West Indies in a thrilling contest, held on Friday evening (February 18) at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. Being asked to bat first, India posted 186-5 and defended the score by 8 runs despite Nicholas Pooran-Rovman Powell's pyrotechnics.&nbsp;</p>

<p>There were a lot of positives for the Rohit Sharma-led Indian team. One of the biggest shining points was the return of Virat Kohli's form. While Kohli had&nbsp;two fifty-plus scores in the South Africa ODIs, he fell flat versus the Kieron Pollard-led Men in Maroon in the 50-over series. The former Indian captain got a start but fell for 17 in the series opener before turning the tide emphatically with a blistering 41-ball 52 on Friday evening. The 33-year-old Kohli started off aggressively and while he did get a tad bit slow as his innings progressed, he got to his fifty with a six.</p>

<p>On the very next delivery, he was cleaned up by Roston Chase as Kohli walked back for 52. With another half-century in the shortest format, Kohli has joined Rohit at the top with most fifties in T20Is.</p>

<p><strong>Most half-centuries in T20I cricket&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>1) Virat Kohli/Rohit Sharma - 30&nbsp;</p>

<p>2) Babar Azam- 26&nbsp;</p>

<p>3) David Warner/Martin Guptill- 22&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-rishabh-pant-granted-bio-bubble-break-ahead-of-series-finale-vs-wi-duo-to-skip-sl-t20is-454506">Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant granted bio-bubble break ahead of series finale vs WI; duo to skip SL T20Is</a></strong></p>

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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kohli-pant-and-bhuvneshwar-star-as-india-beat-west-indies-by-8-runs-in-2nd-t20i-clinch-series-454457"><strong>Kohli, Pant and Bhuvneshwar star as India beat West Indies by 8 runs in 2nd T20I, clinch series</strong></a></p>

<p>After his impressive fifty, Kohli told the broadcasters at the half-way stage of the second and penultimate T20I, "I decided to be positive when I went in. Despite losing a few wickets, I wanted to continue in the same way. I was disappointed to get out because the game was set up nicely to go hard in the last few overs, which is my strength. I am happy that I went out with a clear intent today."</p>

<p>At the post-match presentation, Rohit lauded Kohli and said, "It was very important innings from Virat. The way he started off, took the pressure of me as well. We didn't start well in the first two overs, then he came in and started playing those shots which was very pleasing to the eye."</p>


Team India won the second and penultimate T20I versus West Indies in a thrilling contest, held on Friday evening (February 18) at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. Being asked to bat first, India posted 186-5 and defended the score by 8 runs despite Nicholas Pooran-Rovman Powell's pyrotechnics.

Team India won the second and penultimate T20I versus West Indies in a thrilling contest, held on Friday evening (February 18) at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. Being asked to bat first, India posted 186-5 and defended the score by 8 runs despite Nicholas Pooran-Rovman Powell's pyrotechnics. There were a lot of positives for the Rohit Sharma-led Indian team. One of the biggest shining points was the return of Virat Kohli's form. While Kohli had two fifty-plus scores in the South Africa ODIs, he fell flat versus the Kieron Pollard-led Men in Maroon in the 50-over series. The former Indian captain got a start but fell for 17 in the series opener before turning the tide emphatically with a blistering 41-ball 52 on Friday evening. The 33-year-old Kohli started off aggressively and while he did get a tad bit slow as his innings progressed, he got to his fifty with a six. On the very next delivery, he was cleaned up by Roston Chase as Kohli walked back for 52. With another half-century in the shortest format, Kohli has joined Rohit at the top with most fifties in T20Is. Most half-centuries in T20I cricket 1) Virat Kohli/Rohit Sharma - 30 2) Babar Azam- 26 3) David Warner/Martin Guptill- 22 ALSO READ | Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant granted bio-bubble break ahead of series finale vs WI; duo to skip SL T20Is × ALSO READ | Kohli, Pant and Bhuvneshwar star as India beat West Indies by 8 runs in 2nd T20I, clinch series After his impressive fifty, Kohli told the broadcasters at the half-way stage of the second and penultimate T20I, "I decided to be positive when I went in. Despite losing a few wickets, I wanted to continue in the same way. I was disappointed to get out because the game was set up nicely to go hard in the last few overs, which is my strength. I am happy that I went out with a clear intent today." At the post-match presentation, Rohit lauded Kohli and said, "It was very important innings from Virat. The way he started off, took the pressure of me as well. We didn't start well in the first two overs, then he came in and started playing those shots which was very pleasing to the eye."

India vs WI: Virat Kohli joins Rohit Sharma at the top in elite list with blistering 52 in 2nd T20I

<p>Virat Kohli hasn't scored an international ton since late 2019. The 33-year-old's last triple-figure knock came during India's maiden day-night Test versus Bangladesh and since then, he hasn't managed to score a hundred across formats.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While Kohli has&nbsp;fifty-plus scores in white-ball formats, he hasn't done anything extra ordinary in the ongoing limited-overs home series versus Kieron Pollard-led West Indies. On the other hand, he averaged 28.21 in Tests in 2021. Thus, the Indian cricket fans are desperate to see King Kohli return to his usual best and score a ton. However, it looks like not only the Indian fans, Kohli's followers in Pakistan&nbsp;also want to see a hundred from his willow.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/psl-2022-wasim-akram-reacts-as-video-of-his-animated-chat-with-babar-azam-goes-viral-454288">PSL 2022: Wasim Akram reacts as video of his animated chat with Babar Azam goes viral</a></strong></p>

<p>During Multan Sultans' encounter versus Quetta Gladiators in ongoing PSL 2022 edition, a Pakistani fan expressed his desire to see Kohli hit a century in Pakistan. <strong>The fan's message has gone viral on social media platforms:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A Virat Kohli fan in PSL with the banner of, "I want to see your century in Pakistan, Virat". <a href="https://t.co/XzHlBPq43A">pic.twitter.com/XzHlBPq43A</a></p>
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) <a href="https://twitter.com/mufaddal_vohra/status/1494628928153030657?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 18, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-just-ran-towards-virat-kohli-and-hugged-him-rcb-pacer-md-siraj-recalls-best-surprise-of-life-454323">I just ran towards Virat Kohli and hugged him: RCB pacer Md Siraj recalls 'best surprise of life'</a></strong></p>

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<p>At present, Kohli is involved in the three-match T20I series between India and West Indies at home. In the series opener, the former Indian captain managed a 13-ball 17 during India's six-wicket win. He will be desperate to score big in the second and penultimate T20I and enable an unassailable 2-0 lead for the home side on Friday evening (February 18), at Eden Gardens, Kolkata.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>


Virat Kohli hasn't scored an international ton since late 2019. The 33-year-old's last triple-figure knock came during India's maiden day-night Test versus Bangladesh and since then, he hasn't managed to score a hundred across formats.

Virat Kohli hasn't scored an international ton since late 2019. The 33-year-old's last triple-figure knock came during India's maiden day-night Test versus Bangladesh and since then, he hasn't managed to score a hundred across formats. While Kohli has fifty-plus scores in white-ball formats, he hasn't done anything extra ordinary in the ongoing limited-overs home series versus Kieron Pollard-led West Indies. On the other hand, he averaged 28.21 in Tests in 2021. Thus, the Indian cricket fans are desperate to see King Kohli return to his usual best and score a ton. However, it looks like not only the Indian fans, Kohli's followers in Pakistan also want to see a hundred from his willow. ALSO READ | PSL 2022: Wasim Akram reacts as video of his animated chat with Babar Azam goes viral During Multan Sultans' encounter versus Quetta Gladiators in ongoing PSL 2022 edition, a Pakistani fan expressed his desire to see Kohli hit a century in Pakistan. The fan's message has gone viral on social media platforms: A Virat Kohli fan in PSL with the banner of, "I want to see your century in Pakistan, Virat". pic.twitter.com/XzHlBPq43A — Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) February 18, 2022 × ALSO READ | I just ran towards Virat Kohli and hugged him: RCB pacer Md Siraj recalls 'best surprise of life' × At present, Kohli is involved in the three-match T20I series between India and West Indies at home. In the series opener, the former Indian captain managed a 13-ball 17 during India's six-wicket win. He will be desperate to score big in the second and penultimate T20I and enable an unassailable 2-0 lead for the home side on Friday evening (February 18), at Eden Gardens, Kolkata.

'Want to see your century in Pakistan': Fan's message for Virat Kohli goes viral during PSL 2022

<p>Ahead of the three-match T20I series versus West Indies, India's white-ball captain Rohit Sharma shunned reporters for adding too much hype regarding Virat Kohli's indifferent form. For the unversed, the 33-year-old ended with only 26 runs in the three ODIs versus Kieron Pollard-led Windies. Thus,&nbsp;talks have intensified on Kohli's form as the 33-year-old remains without a century since late 2019.</p>

<p>“It starts from you guys (media). If you guys keep quiet for a while, he'll be alright. If you don't do much talking from your side, everything will be taken care of," Rohit had said in the pre-match presser ahead of the first T20I against the Men in Maroon in Kolkata.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/want-to-see-your-century-in-pakistan-fans-message-for-virat-kohli-goes-viral-during-psl-2022-454359"><strong>'Want to see your century in Pakistan': Fan's message for Virat Kohli goes viral during PSL 2022</strong></a></p>

<p>Reacting to Rohit's backing of his predecessor Kohli, former India player Nikhil Chopra feels Hitman's statement sends a strong message to the Indian dressing room. “I had said earlier as well that Rohit is the right candidate for captaincy because he has earned the respect of the dressing room. Everyone knows that the captain will back them even if they are not able to perform a specific role given to them. Players know the captain will never humiliate them publicly and keep backing them completely," Chopra said on the&nbsp;<em>Khelneeti&nbsp;</em>podcast.</p>

<p>Reflecting on Kohli's run of form, Chopra pointed out that the empty stands are also playing a role in the former captain's century drought.&nbsp;“I am not saying that it is happening with Kohli. But when a player receives appreciation for hitting fours and sixes, he feeds off that energy. In empty stadiums, your concentration might be affected as there is no reaction to big hits. We know a lot of players who take strength from crowd’s energy. Maybe, it might be affecting him a little bit," the ex-cricketer further pointed out.</p>

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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-just-ran-towards-virat-kohli-and-hugged-him-rcb-pacer-md-siraj-recalls-best-surprise-of-life-454323">I just ran towards Virat Kohli and hugged him: RCB pacer Md Siraj recalls 'best surprise of life'</a></strong></p>

<p>Kohli smashed a fifty (52) in the second and penultimate T20I versus the Windies, on Friday evening (February 18), at the eden Gardens, however, once again failed to convert it into a big score.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rohit-led India lead the three T20Is 1-0 after winning the series opener, at the same venue, by six wickets.</p>


Ahead of the three-match T20I series versus West Indies, India's white-ball captain Rohit Sharma shunned reporters for adding too much hype regarding Virat Kohli's indifferent form.

Ahead of the three-match T20I series versus West Indies, India's white-ball captain Rohit Sharma shunned reporters for adding too much hype regarding Virat Kohli's indifferent form. For the unversed, the 33-year-old ended with only 26 runs in the three ODIs versus Kieron Pollard-led Windies. Thus, talks have intensified on Kohli's form as the 33-year-old remains without a century since late 2019. “It starts from you guys (media). If you guys keep quiet for a while, he'll be alright. If you don't do much talking from your side, everything will be taken care of," Rohit had said in the pre-match presser ahead of the first T20I against the Men in Maroon in Kolkata. ALSO READ | 'Want to see your century in Pakistan': Fan's message for Virat Kohli goes viral during PSL 2022 Reacting to Rohit's backing of his predecessor Kohli, former India player Nikhil Chopra feels Hitman's statement sends a strong message to the Indian dressing room. “I had said earlier as well that Rohit is the right candidate for captaincy because he has earned the respect of the dressing room. Everyone knows that the captain will back them even if they are not able to perform a specific role given to them. Players know the captain will never humiliate them publicly and keep backing them completely," Chopra said on the Khelneeti podcast. Reflecting on Kohli's run of form, Chopra pointed out that the empty stands are also playing a role in the former captain's century drought. “I am not saying that it is happening with Kohli. But when a player receives appreciation for hitting fours and sixes, he feeds off that energy. In empty stadiums, your concentration might be affected as there is no reaction to big hits. We know a lot of players who take strength from crowd’s energy. Maybe, it might be affecting him a little bit," the ex-cricketer further pointed out. × ALSO READ | I just ran towards Virat Kohli and hugged him: RCB pacer Md Siraj recalls 'best surprise of life' Kohli smashed a fifty (52) in the second and penultimate T20I versus the Windies, on Friday evening (February 18), at the eden Gardens, however, once again failed to convert it into a big score. Rohit-led India lead the three T20Is 1-0 after winning the series opener, at the same venue, by six wickets.

'Players know captain will never...': Ex-India player reacts to Rohit Sharma's stance on Virat Kohli's form

<p>Team India defeated West Indies by 8 runs in a thrilling second and penultimate T20I at Eden Gardens, Kolkata on Friday (February 18). Rohit Sharma-led Indian team were asked to bat first as they rode on Virat Kohli's 52, Rishabh Pant's 52* and Venkatesh Iyer's 33 to post 186-5 in 20 overs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In reply, WI were 59-2 before a century-stand between half-centurions Rovman Powell and Nicholas Pooran steadied the ship but impressive death-over bowling from Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Harshal Patel ensured a series win for India. After the series victory, former Indian skipper Virat Kohli and wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant have reportedly left for their respective homes after being given a bio-bubble break by the BCCI.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/players-know-captain-will-never-ex-india-player-reacts-to-rohit-sharmas-stance-on-virat-kohlis-form-454406"><strong>'Players know captain will never...': Ex-India player reacts to Rohit Sharma's stance on Virat Kohli's form</strong></a></p>

<p>According to a report filed by news agency PTI, BCCI have given a ten-day break to Kohli, who will now miss the forthcoming Sri Lanka T20Is and return for the two Tests versus the Islanders. On the other hand, Pant -- who was named Rohit's deputy for the ongoing WI T20Is -- will also miss the white-ball series versus the Sri Lankans.</p>

<p>"Yes, Kohli has left home on Saturday morning as India have already won the series. As it has been decided by BCCI, it will be a policy to give all the regular all format players periodic breaks from the bubble to ensure that their workload management and mental health is taken care of," a senior BCCI official was quoted as saying.&nbsp;</p>

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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kohli-pant-and-bhuvneshwar-star-as-india-beat-west-indies-by-8-runs-in-2nd-t20i-clinch-series-454457">Kohli, Pant and Bhuvneshwar star as India beat West Indies by 8 runs in 2nd T20I, clinch series</a></strong></p>

<p>Both Kohli and Pant were part of the three ODIs and the first two T20Is versus the Men in Maroon. While Kohli regained some form, after a string of low scores in the 50-over series, Pant also contributed well with the bat before being given a break now. Despite the duo's departure, Rohit &amp; Co. have enough options to go for the kill and claim the WI T20Is by a 3-0 margin.</p>


Team India defeated West Indies by 8 runs in a thrilling second and penultimate T20I at Eden Gardens, Kolkata on Friday (February 18). Rohit Sharma-led Indian team were asked to bat first as they rode on Virat Kohli's 52, Rishabh Pant's 52* and Venkatesh Iyer's 33 to post 186-5 in 20 overs.

Team India defeated West Indies by 8 runs in a thrilling second and penultimate T20I at Eden Gardens, Kolkata on Friday (February 18). Rohit Sharma-led Indian team were asked to bat first as they rode on Virat Kohli's 52, Rishabh Pant's 52* and Venkatesh Iyer's 33 to post 186-5 in 20 overs. In reply, WI were 59-2 before a century-stand between half-centurions Rovman Powell and Nicholas Pooran steadied the ship but impressive death-over bowling from Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Harshal Patel ensured a series win for India. After the series victory, former Indian skipper Virat Kohli and wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant have reportedly left for their respective homes after being given a bio-bubble break by the BCCI. ALSO READ | 'Players know captain will never...': Ex-India player reacts to Rohit Sharma's stance on Virat Kohli's form According to a report filed by news agency PTI, BCCI have given a ten-day break to Kohli, who will now miss the forthcoming Sri Lanka T20Is and return for the two Tests versus the Islanders. On the other hand, Pant -- who was named Rohit's deputy for the ongoing WI T20Is -- will also miss the white-ball series versus the Sri Lankans. "Yes, Kohli has left home on Saturday morning as India have already won the series. As it has been decided by BCCI, it will be a policy to give all the regular all format players periodic breaks from the bubble to ensure that their workload management and mental health is taken care of," a senior BCCI official was quoted as saying. × ALSO READ | Kohli, Pant and Bhuvneshwar star as India beat West Indies by 8 runs in 2nd T20I, clinch series Both Kohli and Pant were part of the three ODIs and the first two T20Is versus the Men in Maroon. While Kohli regained some form, after a string of low scores in the 50-over series, Pant also contributed well with the bat before being given a break now. Despite the duo's departure, Rohit & Co. have enough options to go for the kill and claim the WI T20Is by a 3-0 margin.

Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant granted bio-bubble break ahead of series finale vs WI; duo to skip SL T20Is

<p>Rohit Sharma-led Team India won the second and penultimate T20I versus West Indies on Friday evening (February 18), at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. Asked to bat first, India posted 186-5 and defended the score by 8 runs despite fireworks from Rovman Powell and Nicholas Pooran.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The match lived upto expectations as the Windies' batters Pooran and Powell kept the run-chase alive till the end overs before their respective half-centuries went in vain. During the run-chase, India dropped quite a few chances. Ravi Bishnoi and Bhuvneshwar Kumar dropped a catch each&nbsp;whereas some extra runs were also given to the visitors due to the hosts' sloppiness on the field.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-wi-rohit-gives-hilarious-reaction-after-pant-wins-player-of-the-match-in-2nd-t20i-watch-454607"><strong>Ind vs WI: Rohit gives hilarious reaction after Pant wins Player of the Match in 2nd T20I - Watch</strong></a></p>

<p>Bishnoi gave Pooran a reprieve off senior leg spinner Yuzvendra Chahal's bowling. For the unversed, the former had also touched the boundary rope while completing a catch off Chahal's delivery in the series opener. Thus, broadcasters Irfan Pathan and Aakash Chopra interacted with Chahal post the second T20I, where the former reminded Chahal of Bishnoi's fielding.</p>

<p>When Irfan asked 'where is Bishnoi taking you for dinner', Yuzi Chahal left the former all-rounder, Chopra and other presenters in splits by saying, "firstly, I'll take him to the corner.' <strong>Here's the video:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="und">😂😂🔥🔥 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YuzvendraChahal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#YuzvendraChahal</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RaviBishnoi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RaviBishnoi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IrfanPathan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IrfanPathan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AkashChopra?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AkashChopra</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvsWI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvsWI</a> <a href="https://t.co/6rDIzR74t4">https://t.co/6rDIzR74t4</a> <a href="https://t.co/KK4MhjmGCJ">pic.twitter.com/KK4MhjmGCJ</a></p>
— Harshit Poddar (@harshitpoddar09) <a href="https://twitter.com/harshitpoddar09/status/1494941757162680320?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 19, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/2nd-t20i-rohit-sharma-loses-his-cool-as-pacer-bhuvneshwar-kumar-drops-a-catch-watch-454574"><strong>2nd T20I: Rohit Sharma loses his cool as pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar drops a catch - WATCH</strong></a></p>

<p>At the post-match presentation, Rohit also opined on India's fielding and told the broadcasters, "We were a bit sloppy on the field. A little disappointed with that. The game would have been different had we taken those catches."</p>


Rohit Sharma-led Team India won the second and penultimate T20I versus West Indies on Friday evening (February 18), at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. Asked to bat first, India posted 186-5 and defended the score by 8 runs despite fireworks from Rovman Powell and Nicholas Pooran.

Rohit Sharma-led Team India won the second and penultimate T20I versus West Indies on Friday evening (February 18), at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. Asked to bat first, India posted 186-5 and defended the score by 8 runs despite fireworks from Rovman Powell and Nicholas Pooran. The match lived upto expectations as the Windies' batters Pooran and Powell kept the run-chase alive till the end overs before their respective half-centuries went in vain. During the run-chase, India dropped quite a few chances. Ravi Bishnoi and Bhuvneshwar Kumar dropped a catch each whereas some extra runs were also given to the visitors due to the hosts' sloppiness on the field. ALSO READ | Ind vs WI: Rohit gives hilarious reaction after Pant wins Player of the Match in 2nd T20I - Watch Bishnoi gave Pooran a reprieve off senior leg spinner Yuzvendra Chahal's bowling. For the unversed, the former had also touched the boundary rope while completing a catch off Chahal's delivery in the series opener. Thus, broadcasters Irfan Pathan and Aakash Chopra interacted with Chahal post the second T20I, where the former reminded Chahal of Bishnoi's fielding. When Irfan asked 'where is Bishnoi taking you for dinner', Yuzi Chahal left the former all-rounder, Chopra and other presenters in splits by saying, "firstly, I'll take him to the corner.' Here's the video: 😂😂🔥🔥 #YuzvendraChahal #RaviBishnoi #IrfanPathan #AkashChopra #INDvsWI https://t.co/6rDIzR74t4 pic.twitter.com/KK4MhjmGCJ — Harshit Poddar (@harshitpoddar09) February 19, 2022 × ALSO READ | 2nd T20I: Rohit Sharma loses his cool as pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar drops a catch - WATCH At the post-match presentation, Rohit also opined on India's fielding and told the broadcasters, "We were a bit sloppy on the field. A little disappointed with that. The game would have been different had we taken those catches."

WATCH: Yuzi Chahal leaves Irfan, Chopra in splits on being asked about Bishnoi's dropped catch off his bowling

<p>BCCI have announced an&nbsp;18-man squad for Team India's forthcoming three-match T20I series versus Sri Lanka at home. The Chetan Sharma-led All India senior selection committee named the squad in a virtual press conference.</p>

<p>The likes of Virat Kohli and wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant have been rested for the white-ball assignment versus the Islanders. Following the second and penultimate T20I versus West Indies, on Friday evening (February 18), reports came in that the duo were given a bio-bubble break and have left for their respective homes before the series finale versus the Men in Maroon. Thus, they will now also miss the SL T20Is.</p>

<p>On the other hand, the likes of Jasprit Bumrah and all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja have returned to the T20I setup. Bumrah was rested for the WI limited-overs series whereas Jadeja was out of action due to injury. He had also missed the entire South Africa tour, due to a knee injury which he sustained during the New Zealand home series in late 2021. Bumrah will also be Rohit Sharma's deputy in the white-ball series as regular white-ball vice-captain KL Rahul is out with a hamstring injury (during the WI ODIs).</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-named-test-captain-as-bcci-announces-squad-for-sri-lanka-series-pujara-rahane-dropped-454583">Rohit Sharma named Test captain as BCCI announces squad for Sri Lanka series; Pujara, Rahane dropped</a></strong></p>

<p>The rest of the squad majorly remains the same (compared to the WI series). Shardul Thakur's name is missing (reasons unknown) whereas Sanju Samson has also made a comeback.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The SL series will get underway on February 24 with the series opener to be played in Lucknow. The remainder of the T20Is will be held in Dharamshala before the two Tests follow suit. The red-ball series will be played from March 4-March 16.</p>

<p><strong>India's squad for the Sri Lanka T20I series:</strong></p>

<p>Rohit Sharma (C), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer, Venkatesh Iyer, Deepak Hooda, Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Bhuvneshwar, Chahar, Harshal Patel, Mohammed Siraj, Sanju Samson, Ravindra Jadeja, Yuzvendra Chahal, Bishnoi, Kuldeep Yadav, Avesh Khan</p>


BCCI have announced an 18-man squad for Team India's forthcoming three-match T20I series versus Sri Lanka at home. The Chetan Sharma-led All India senior selection committee named the squad in a virtual press conference.

BCCI have announced an 18-man squad for Team India's forthcoming three-match T20I series versus Sri Lanka at home. The Chetan Sharma-led All India senior selection committee named the squad in a virtual press conference. The likes of Virat Kohli and wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant have been rested for the white-ball assignment versus the Islanders. Following the second and penultimate T20I versus West Indies, on Friday evening (February 18), reports came in that the duo were given a bio-bubble break and have left for their respective homes before the series finale versus the Men in Maroon. Thus, they will now also miss the SL T20Is. On the other hand, the likes of Jasprit Bumrah and all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja have returned to the T20I setup. Bumrah was rested for the WI limited-overs series whereas Jadeja was out of action due to injury. He had also missed the entire South Africa tour, due to a knee injury which he sustained during the New Zealand home series in late 2021. Bumrah will also be Rohit Sharma's deputy in the white-ball series as regular white-ball vice-captain KL Rahul is out with a hamstring injury (during the WI ODIs). ALSO READ | Rohit Sharma named Test captain as BCCI announces squad for Sri Lanka series; Pujara, Rahane dropped The rest of the squad majorly remains the same (compared to the WI series). Shardul Thakur's name is missing (reasons unknown) whereas Sanju Samson has also made a comeback. The SL series will get underway on February 24 with the series opener to be played in Lucknow. The remainder of the T20Is will be held in Dharamshala before the two Tests follow suit. The red-ball series will be played from March 4-March 16. India's squad for the Sri Lanka T20I series: Rohit Sharma (C), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer, Venkatesh Iyer, Deepak Hooda, Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Bhuvneshwar, Chahar, Harshal Patel, Mohammed Siraj, Sanju Samson, Ravindra Jadeja, Yuzvendra Chahal, Bishnoi, Kuldeep Yadav, Avesh Khan

BCCI announces India squad for SL T20Is: Kohli, Pant rested; Bumrah named Rohit's deputy, Jadeja returns

<p>Rohit Sharma-led Team India beat West Indies in the second and penultimate T20I by 8 runs to clinch the series with a game to go. On Friday evening (February 18), the Men in Blue locked horns with Kieron Pollard-led West Indies at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata and put on another good show to claim the three-match series.</p>

<p>Being asked to bat first, Rohit &amp; Co. rode on half-centuries from Virat Kohli and Rishabh Pant to post 186-5. In reply, West Indies were kept in the run-chase courtesy a century-stand from half-centurions Nicholas Pooran and Rovman Powell before some tight bowling in the end overs turned the tide in India's favour.</p>

<p>At the post-match presentation, captain Rohit was a relaxed man after an intense encounter at his happy hunting ground. Nonetheless, he gave a hilarious reaction after knowing that Pant was adjudged the Player-of-the-Match in the high-voltage encounter.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-announces-india-squad-for-sl-t20is-kohli-pant-rested-bumrah-named-rohits-deputy-jadeja-returns-454589"><strong>BCCI announces India squad for SL T20Is: Kohli, Pant rested; Bumrah named Rohit's deputy, Jadeja returns</strong></a></p>

<p>Rohit sarcastically asked presenter-cum-commentator Harsha Bhogle,&nbsp;“Rishabh Pant Is The Man of the-Match?.” Harsha replied&nbsp;saying, “Come on Rohit, he batted very well though.”</p>

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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/2nd-t20i-rohit-sharma-loses-his-cool-as-pacer-bhuvneshwar-kumar-drops-a-catch-watch-454574">2nd T20I: Rohit Sharma loses his cool as pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar drops a catch - WATCH</a></strong></p>

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<p>At the post-match presentation, Pant pointed out, "As long as the team wants me to bat anywhere, I am fine. I think inside the circle, everyone was looking for that catch (Powell) to be taken and we thought it was Bhuvi's catch but it happens and it's part and parcel of the game. I don't mind playing the situation and not only at the death. The more you practice, the better you get. The only thing we (during partnership with Venkatesh Iyer) were talking was we will play according to every ball. It is never easy to play every game but this is what I have always wanted to do. I always enjoy what I do. He (Powell) was hitting bullets. At the back of my mind I was happy as well as Powell will be playing for Delhi Capitals (smiles)."</p>

<p>Pant and Kohli have been rested for the third and final match versus West Indies and will also skip the Sri Lanka T20Is. BCCI named the squad for the SL series on Saturday (February 19).</p>

<p><strong>India squad for SL T20Is:</strong></p>

<p>Rohit Sharma (C), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer, Venkatesh Iyer, Deepak Hooda, Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Bhuvneshwar, Chahar, Harshal Patel, Mohammed Siraj, Sanju Samson, Ravindra Jadeja, Yuzvendra Chahal, Bishnoi, Kuldeep Yadav, Avesh Khan</p>


Rohit Sharma-led Team India beat West Indies in the second and penultimate T20I by 8 runs to clinch the series with a game to go. On Friday evening (February 18), the Men in Blue locked horns with Kieron Pollard-led West Indies at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata and put on another good show to claim the three-match series.

Rohit Sharma-led Team India beat West Indies in the second and penultimate T20I by 8 runs to clinch the series with a game to go. On Friday evening (February 18), the Men in Blue locked horns with Kieron Pollard-led West Indies at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata and put on another good show to claim the three-match series. Being asked to bat first, Rohit & Co. rode on half-centuries from Virat Kohli and Rishabh Pant to post 186-5. In reply, West Indies were kept in the run-chase courtesy a century-stand from half-centurions Nicholas Pooran and Rovman Powell before some tight bowling in the end overs turned the tide in India's favour. At the post-match presentation, captain Rohit was a relaxed man after an intense encounter at his happy hunting ground. Nonetheless, he gave a hilarious reaction after knowing that Pant was adjudged the Player-of-the-Match in the high-voltage encounter. ALSO READ | BCCI announces India squad for SL T20Is: Kohli, Pant rested; Bumrah named Rohit's deputy, Jadeja returns Rohit sarcastically asked presenter-cum-commentator Harsha Bhogle, “Rishabh Pant Is The Man of the-Match?.” Harsha replied saying, “Come on Rohit, he batted very well though.” pic.twitter.com/QHnaAzZPRC — Addicric (@addicric) February 18, 2022 × ALSO READ | 2nd T20I: Rohit Sharma loses his cool as pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar drops a catch - WATCH × At the post-match presentation, Pant pointed out, "As long as the team wants me to bat anywhere, I am fine. I think inside the circle, everyone was looking for that catch (Powell) to be taken and we thought it was Bhuvi's catch but it happens and it's part and parcel of the game. I don't mind playing the situation and not only at the death. The more you practice, the better you get. The only thing we (during partnership with Venkatesh Iyer) were talking was we will play according to every ball. It is never easy to play every game but this is what I have always wanted to do. I always enjoy what I do. He (Powell) was hitting bullets. At the back of my mind I was happy as well as Powell will be playing for Delhi Capitals (smiles)." Pant and Kohli have been rested for the third and final match versus West Indies and will also skip the Sri Lanka T20Is. BCCI named the squad for the SL series on Saturday (February 19). India squad for SL T20Is: Rohit Sharma (C), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer, Venkatesh Iyer, Deepak Hooda, Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Bhuvneshwar, Chahar, Harshal Patel, Mohammed Siraj, Sanju Samson, Ravindra Jadeja, Yuzvendra Chahal, Bishnoi, Kuldeep Yadav, Avesh Khan

Ind vs WI: Rohit gives hilarious reaction after Pant wins Player of the Match in 2nd T20I - Watch

<p>New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson returned to training on Saturday after recovering from an elbow injury.</p>

<p>Earlier this month, Williamson was ruled out of the South Africa series due to the injury."Great to be back in the nets," Williamson captioned the post on Instagram.</p>

<p>New Zealand coach Gary Stead had said Williamson was desperate to be fit but the management had to make a tough call for the skipper.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-wi-virat-kohli-joins-rohit-sharma-at-the-top-in-elite-list-with-blistering-52-in-2nd-t20i-454516">India vs WI: Virat Kohli joins Rohit Sharma at the top in elite list with blistering 52 in 2nd T20I</a></p>

<p>"He was desperate to be fit for the series but with the amount of loading required for Test cricket, we had to make the tough call for him to sit it out and focus on returning for the white ball matches against the Netherlands in March," Stead had said.</p>

<p>"Kane loves playing for the BLACKCAPS and especially in Test cricket so it was a particularly hard call.</p>

<p>However the priority has to be trying to get the injury right and having him available long term," he added.</p>

<p>The Kiwi skipper had also missed the home Test series against Bangladesh.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-rishabh-pant-granted-bio-bubble-break-ahead-of-series-finale-vs-wi-duo-to-skip-sl-t20is-454506">Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant granted bio-bubble break ahead of series finale vs WI; duo to skip SL T20Is</a></p>

<p>Meanwhile, Pacer Tim Southee picked five wickets in the second innings as New Zealand on Saturday defeated South Africa by an innings and 276 runs in the first Test here at the Hagley Oval on Day 3.</p>

<p>With this win, New Zealand has taken a 1-0 lead in the two-match Test series. The hosts claimed 12 World Test Championships (WTC) points following their win over South Africa.</p>


New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson returned to training on Saturday after recovering from an elbow injury. Earlier this month, Williamson was ruled out of the South Africa series due to the injury.

New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson returned to training on Saturday after recovering from an elbow injury. Earlier this month, Williamson was ruled out of the South Africa series due to the injury."Great to be back in the nets," Williamson captioned the post on Instagram. New Zealand coach Gary Stead had said Williamson was desperate to be fit but the management had to make a tough call for the skipper. ALSO READ: India vs WI: Virat Kohli joins Rohit Sharma at the top in elite list with blistering 52 in 2nd T20I "He was desperate to be fit for the series but with the amount of loading required for Test cricket, we had to make the tough call for him to sit it out and focus on returning for the white ball matches against the Netherlands in March," Stead had said. "Kane loves playing for the BLACKCAPS and especially in Test cricket so it was a particularly hard call. However the priority has to be trying to get the injury right and having him available long term," he added. The Kiwi skipper had also missed the home Test series against Bangladesh. ALSO READ: Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant granted bio-bubble break ahead of series finale vs WI; duo to skip SL T20Is Meanwhile, Pacer Tim Southee picked five wickets in the second innings as New Zealand on Saturday defeated South Africa by an innings and 276 runs in the first Test here at the Hagley Oval on Day 3. With this win, New Zealand has taken a 1-0 lead in the two-match Test series. The hosts claimed 12 World Test Championships (WTC) points following their win over South Africa.

New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson desperate to get fit as he returns to training

<p>Having defeated West Indies 3-0 in the ODI series, Team India will look to replicate the same when the two sides meet in the third and final T20I on Sunday.</p>

<p>India defeated West Indies in the second T20I on Friday on the back of Virat Kohli and Rishabh Pant's fifties.</p>

<p>However, Team India will be missing the services of Kohli and Pant as both have been given bio-bubble break by the BCCI.</p>

<p>While India will eye for a clean sweep, the hosts will also try different combinations in the absence of Kohli and Pant.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-named-test-captain-as-bcci-announces-squad-for-sri-lanka-series-pujara-rahane-dropped-454583">Rohit Sharma named Test captain as BCCI announces squad for Sri Lanka series; Pujara, Rahane dropped</a></strong></p>

<p>On the other hand, West Indies will look to end the tour of India on a high by winning the third and final T20I on Sunday.</p>

<p>The visitors have not won a single game and will definitely look to seal the dead rubber to open the account in the white-ball leg.</p>

<p>Coming back to Team India, after the win in the second ODI, Pant said young batter Venkatesh Iyer is a mature cricketer, who reads the situation very well.</p>

<p>Pant (52) and Venkatesh Iyer (33) had played crucial knocks to help India post 186/5 in the 20 overs in the second T20I.</p>

<p>"When you come down the order, you know the situation. He (Iyer) is someone who reads the situation really well. We talked about keeping it simple and not trying too many things. The plan was simple, see the ball, hit the ball," said Pant in the post-match press conference.</p>

<p>"He (Iyer) is a mature cricketer. He used to play down the order for MP. Yes, in the IPL he is opening, but we can't be thinking too much about that. In the Indian team, we are just trying to find different positions for different people," he added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="2nd T20I: Rohit Sharma loses his cool as pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar drops a catch - WATCH">2nd T20I: Rohit Sharma loses his cool as pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar drops a catch - WATCH</a></strong></p>

<p>Squads: India: Rohit Sharma (Captain), Ishan Kishan, Shreyas Iyer, Surya Kumar Yadav, Venkatesh Iyer, Deepak Chahar, Shardul Thakur, Ravi Bishnoi, Yuzvendra Chahal, Washington Sundar, Mohd. Siraj, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Avesh Khan, Harshal Patel, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Deepak Hooda.</p>

<p>West Indies: Kieron Pollard (c), Nicholas Pooran, Fabien Allen, Darren Bravo, Roseton Chase, Sheldon Cottrell, Dominic Drakes, Jason Holder, Shai Hope, Akeal Hosein, Brandon King, Kyle Mayers, Rovman Powell, Romario Shephard, Odean Smith, Hayden Walsh Jr.</p>


Having defeated West Indies 3-0 in the ODI series, Team India will look to replicate the same when the two sides meet in the third and final T20I on Sunday. India defeated West Indies in the second T20I on Friday on the back of Virat Kohli and Rishabh Pant's fifties.

Having defeated West Indies 3-0 in the ODI series, Team India will look to replicate the same when the two sides meet in the third and final T20I on Sunday. India defeated West Indies in the second T20I on Friday on the back of Virat Kohli and Rishabh Pant's fifties. However, Team India will be missing the services of Kohli and Pant as both have been given bio-bubble break by the BCCI. While India will eye for a clean sweep, the hosts will also try different combinations in the absence of Kohli and Pant. ALSO READ: Rohit Sharma named Test captain as BCCI announces squad for Sri Lanka series; Pujara, Rahane dropped On the other hand, West Indies will look to end the tour of India on a high by winning the third and final T20I on Sunday. The visitors have not won a single game and will definitely look to seal the dead rubber to open the account in the white-ball leg. Coming back to Team India, after the win in the second ODI, Pant said young batter Venkatesh Iyer is a mature cricketer, who reads the situation very well. Pant (52) and Venkatesh Iyer (33) had played crucial knocks to help India post 186/5 in the 20 overs in the second T20I. "When you come down the order, you know the situation. He (Iyer) is someone who reads the situation really well. We talked about keeping it simple and not trying too many things. The plan was simple, see the ball, hit the ball," said Pant in the post-match press conference. "He (Iyer) is a mature cricketer. He used to play down the order for MP. Yes, in the IPL he is opening, but we can't be thinking too much about that. In the Indian team, we are just trying to find different positions for different people," he added. ALSO READ: 2nd T20I: Rohit Sharma loses his cool as pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar drops a catch - WATCH Squads: India: Rohit Sharma (Captain), Ishan Kishan, Shreyas Iyer, Surya Kumar Yadav, Venkatesh Iyer, Deepak Chahar, Shardul Thakur, Ravi Bishnoi, Yuzvendra Chahal, Washington Sundar, Mohd. Siraj, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Avesh Khan, Harshal Patel, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Deepak Hooda. West Indies: Kieron Pollard (c), Nicholas Pooran, Fabien Allen, Darren Bravo, Roseton Chase, Sheldon Cottrell, Dominic Drakes, Jason Holder, Shai Hope, Akeal Hosein, Brandon King, Kyle Mayers, Rovman Powell, Romario Shephard, Odean Smith, Hayden Walsh Jr.

3rd T20I: West Indies look to end tour on winning note as India eyes series whitewash

<p>India and West Indies played out a humdinger of a clash in the second and penultimate T20I on Friday evening (February 18), at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. Being asked to bat first, Rohit-led Indian team posted a challenging 186-5, riding on half-centuries from Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant and Venkatesh Iyer's quickire 33.</p>

<p>In reply, WI were 59 for 2 but were kept in the run-chase courtesy Rovman Powell and Nicholas Pooran's century-stand. The two's third-wicket stand kept Indian team on their toes in defence of 187. During the 16th over, when the chase was wide open and the Windies' batters were going hard, Bhuvneshwar Kumar was brought back into the attack in a bid to break the partnership.</p>

<p>Bhuvi used the short ball to good effect, pitching it outside off stump, as a well-set Powell went hard at it. He didn't get the desired timing&nbsp;as the ball went high up&nbsp;in the air. The pacer reacted late to the catch as he thought wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant was going for it. Thus, in the mixup, he dropped it&nbsp;and captain Rohit showed his frustration by kicking the ball. As a result, the two batters sneaked in another run, due to Rohit's kicking, to rub salt on the wounds of the home side.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-wi-virat-kohli-joins-rohit-sharma-at-the-top-in-elite-list-with-blistering-52-in-2nd-t20i-454516">India vs WI: Virat Kohli joins Rohit Sharma at the top in elite list with blistering 52 in 2nd T20I</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>Here's the video:</strong></p>

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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-rishabh-pant-granted-bio-bubble-break-ahead-of-series-finale-vs-wi-duo-to-skip-sl-t20is-454506"><strong>Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant granted bio-bubble break ahead of series finale vs WI; duo to skip SL T20Is</strong></a></p>

<p>Eventually, Bhuvi only dismissed Pooran (62) and bowled a game-changing penultimate over, conceding only 9 runs when the required rate was over 14, as India restricted the Kieron Pollard-led Windies for 178-3.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At the post-match presentation, Bhuvi told, "I was just believing in myself, Rohit told me that if I can give just 9-10 runs it will be difficult for them, so I just backed myself with the yorkers. There was a bit of dew, but I still backed myself and it came out well. He (Powell) was hitting it pretty hard, probably 200kmph (chuckles). It's always tough to bowl yorkers with the dew. When we bowled the slower balls it wasn't gripping and I changed my plan not to bowl slower balls, so it totally depends on the wicket. These guys are very powerful and if you bowl in their zone and it gets difficult. (The body)Feels good and don't want to say anything on that."</p>

<p>The experienced pacer returned with 4-0-29-1 as India took an unassailable lead, with one match to go (on Sunday, February 20).</p>


India and West Indies played out a humdinger of a clash in the second and penultimate T20I on Friday evening (February 18), at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. Being asked to bat first, Rohit-led Indian team posted a challenging 186-5, riding on half-centuries from Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant and Venkatesh Iyer's quickire 33.

India and West Indies played out a humdinger of a clash in the second and penultimate T20I on Friday evening (February 18), at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. Being asked to bat first, Rohit-led Indian team posted a challenging 186-5, riding on half-centuries from Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant and Venkatesh Iyer's quickire 33. In reply, WI were 59 for 2 but were kept in the run-chase courtesy Rovman Powell and Nicholas Pooran's century-stand. The two's third-wicket stand kept Indian team on their toes in defence of 187. During the 16th over, when the chase was wide open and the Windies' batters were going hard, Bhuvneshwar Kumar was brought back into the attack in a bid to break the partnership. Bhuvi used the short ball to good effect, pitching it outside off stump, as a well-set Powell went hard at it. He didn't get the desired timing as the ball went high up in the air. The pacer reacted late to the catch as he thought wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant was going for it. Thus, in the mixup, he dropped it and captain Rohit showed his frustration by kicking the ball. As a result, the two batters sneaked in another run, due to Rohit's kicking, to rub salt on the wounds of the home side. ALSO READ | India vs WI: Virat Kohli joins Rohit Sharma at the top in elite list with blistering 52 in 2nd T20I Here's the video: pic.twitter.com/JNYZTNxmmd — Addicric (@addicric) February 18, 2022 × ALSO READ | Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant granted bio-bubble break ahead of series finale vs WI; duo to skip SL T20Is Eventually, Bhuvi only dismissed Pooran (62) and bowled a game-changing penultimate over, conceding only 9 runs when the required rate was over 14, as India restricted the Kieron Pollard-led Windies for 178-3. At the post-match presentation, Bhuvi told, "I was just believing in myself, Rohit told me that if I can give just 9-10 runs it will be difficult for them, so I just backed myself with the yorkers. There was a bit of dew, but I still backed myself and it came out well. He (Powell) was hitting it pretty hard, probably 200kmph (chuckles). It's always tough to bowl yorkers with the dew. When we bowled the slower balls it wasn't gripping and I changed my plan not to bowl slower balls, so it totally depends on the wicket. These guys are very powerful and if you bowl in their zone and it gets difficult. (The body)Feels good and don't want to say anything on that." The experienced pacer returned with 4-0-29-1 as India took an unassailable lead, with one match to go (on Sunday, February 20).

2nd T20I: Rohit Sharma loses his cool as pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar drops a catch - WATCH

<p>Organisers scrambled to reorganise the Alpine mixed team parallel race for the final day of the Beijing Olympics after high winds on Saturday forced the competition to be postponed.</p>

<p>Team officials and organisers agreed to hold the event, which is only its second edition, on Sunday at 9 a.m. (0100 GMT) despite several teams being scheduled to fly home.</p>

<p>The decision is likely to mean some teams have to rearrange their flights and accommodation bookings but it was not immediately clear if all would remain to compete.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-wins-bid-to-host-2023-international-olympic-committee-session-in-mumbai-after-four-decades-454533">India wins bid to host 2023 International Olympic Committee session in Mumbai after four decades</a></p>

<p>Alpine team officials will hold their usual pre-race "captains'&nbsp;meeting" at 5 p.m. when the start list will be agreed upon, and only then will it be clear how many of the 15 teams will remain in the rescheduled event.</p>

<p>Olympics and International Ski Federation (FIS) officials were keen to avoid the complications that would come with the rare case of an event not being held.</p>

<p>Juan Antonio Samaranch, the head of the International Olympic Committee's coordination commission for Beijing, told the IOC session that these issues were to be expected at a Winter Games.</p>

<p>"We had weather issues but this is Winter Games. We are coping with the difficulties still left but this is winter and we are here to celebrate exactly that: winter," he said.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/britain-lose-4x100m-relay-olympic-silver-medal-as-cas-upholds-chijindu-ujahs-doping-violation-454452">Britain lose 4x100m relay olympic silver medal as CAS upholds Chijindu Ujah's doping violation</a></p>

<p>The closing ceremony for the Beijing Games is on Sunday at 8 p.m. The weather forecast for Sunday is for slightly better wind conditions earlier in the day.</p>

<p>On Saturday at 9 a.m., gusts were recorded as between 24 and 28 metres per second. On Sunday gusts are forecast between 19-22 m/s at that time.<br />
The weather also disrupted competition at the National Cross-Country Centre in Zhangjiakou.</p>

<p>The men's 50 km cross-country mass start, one of the sport's blue riband events, was postponed by an hour and shortened to 30km due to the high winds.</p>

<p>Not everybody in the field was happy with the decision.</p>

<p>"Of course athletes health comes first but we knew it was gonna be cold .... Look to other sports who moved their events a day earlier. This is not the way to go if we want to develop our sport!" Irish skier Thomas Maloney Westgaard tweeted.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/athletics-integrity-unit-bans-nigerian-sprinter-blessing-okagbare-for-10-years-under-doping-charges-454431">Athletics Integrity Unit bans Nigerian sprinter Blessing Okagbare for 10 years under doping charges</a></p>

<p>The men's freeski halfpipe final went ahead but gusts of wind kicked up snow and skiers lost momentum on the pipe, with several crashing, as temperatures dropped to minus 22 Celsius (minus 7.6 Fahrenheit).</p>

<p>"It was gnarly today. And there wasn't even a discussion about postponing or waiting a little bit or anything," British skier Gus Kenworthy said.</p>

<p>The women's 12.5 km biathlon event, originally scheduled for Saturday, was brought forward to Friday due to weather concerns.</p>


Organisers scrambled to reorganise the Alpine mixed team parallel race for the final day of the Beijing Olympics after high winds on Saturday forced the competition to be postponed.

Organisers scrambled to reorganise the Alpine mixed team parallel race for the final day of the Beijing Olympics after high winds on Saturday forced the competition to be postponed. Team officials and organisers agreed to hold the event, which is only its second edition, on Sunday at 9 a.m. (0100 GMT) despite several teams being scheduled to fly home. The decision is likely to mean some teams have to rearrange their flights and accommodation bookings but it was not immediately clear if all would remain to compete. ALSO READ: India wins bid to host 2023 International Olympic Committee session in Mumbai after four decades Alpine team officials will hold their usual pre-race "captains' meeting" at 5 p.m. when the start list will be agreed upon, and only then will it be clear how many of the 15 teams will remain in the rescheduled event. Olympics and International Ski Federation (FIS) officials were keen to avoid the complications that would come with the rare case of an event not being held. Juan Antonio Samaranch, the head of the International Olympic Committee's coordination commission for Beijing, told the IOC session that these issues were to be expected at a Winter Games. "We had weather issues but this is Winter Games. We are coping with the difficulties still left but this is winter and we are here to celebrate exactly that: winter," he said. ALSO READ: Britain lose 4x100m relay olympic silver medal as CAS upholds Chijindu Ujah's doping violation The closing ceremony for the Beijing Games is on Sunday at 8 p.m. The weather forecast for Sunday is for slightly better wind conditions earlier in the day. On Saturday at 9 a.m., gusts were recorded as between 24 and 28 metres per second. On Sunday gusts are forecast between 19-22 m/s at that time. The weather also disrupted competition at the National Cross-Country Centre in Zhangjiakou. The men's 50 km cross-country mass start, one of the sport's blue riband events, was postponed by an hour and shortened to 30km due to the high winds. Not everybody in the field was happy with the decision. "Of course athletes health comes first but we knew it was gonna be cold .... Look to other sports who moved their events a day earlier. This is not the way to go if we want to develop our sport!" Irish skier Thomas Maloney Westgaard tweeted. ALSO READ: Athletics Integrity Unit bans Nigerian sprinter Blessing Okagbare for 10 years under doping charges The men's freeski halfpipe final went ahead but gusts of wind kicked up snow and skiers lost momentum on the pipe, with several crashing, as temperatures dropped to minus 22 Celsius (minus 7.6 Fahrenheit). "It was gnarly today. And there wasn't even a discussion about postponing or waiting a little bit or anything," British skier Gus Kenworthy said. The women's 12.5 km biathlon event, originally scheduled for Saturday, was brought forward to Friday due to weather concerns.

Beijing Winter Olympics: Strong winds postpone Alpine mixed team parallel race on final day

<p>After the IPL mega auction, the focus has now shifted entirely on the forthcoming 15th edition of the cash-rich league. The IPL 2022 edition is set to be held entirely in India. BCCI had to host the IPL 2020 edition in the UAE, following the advent of the Covid-19 pandemic, whereas the Indian cricket board had to shift the second-half of last year's edition in the Middle East, due to the second wave of Covid-19, but the 15th season will be held in India.</p>

<p>As per a report in Sportstar, BCCI are likely to host the league across six venues. Five venues in Maharashtra have been 'zeroed in on' -- due avoid flight travel amid such testing times nationwide --&nbsp;whereas the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad will host the knockout games.</p>

<p>For the unversed, the IPL 15 season is set to welcome two new teams -- Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Gujarat Titans (GT) -- as the number of games in the league will also increase. It will be a 70-match league stage followed by the playoffs (with the total being 74).</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-jason-holder-to-tim-david-5-underrated-overseas-stars-who-fetched-big-fat-cheques-at-mega-auction-454108"><strong>From Jason Holder to Tim David: 5 underrated overseas stars who fetched big-fat cheques at mega auction</strong></a></p>

<p>The 15th season will be held in India from March 27 to May 28. The report further stated that the Sourav Ganguly-led BCCI are also keen on hosting a couple of games&nbsp;at Jio Stadium, Navi Mumbai. Meanwhile, the Wankhede Stadium, Brabourne Stadium, Dr. D.Y. Patil Sports Stadium, Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium (in Pune) will&nbsp;host the&nbsp;majority of games during&nbsp;the league stage.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report has added that the apex cricket board is expected to share the detailed schedule of the forthcoming season by February-end.</p>

<p>The MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are the defending champions, having clinched the title for the fourth time during IPL 2021.</p>


After the IPL mega auction, the focus has now shifted entirely on the forthcoming 15th edition of the cash-rich league. The IPL 2022 edition is set to be held entirely in India.

After the IPL mega auction, the focus has now shifted entirely on the forthcoming 15th edition of the cash-rich league. The IPL 2022 edition is set to be held entirely in India. BCCI had to host the IPL 2020 edition in the UAE, following the advent of the Covid-19 pandemic, whereas the Indian cricket board had to shift the second-half of last year's edition in the Middle East, due to the second wave of Covid-19, but the 15th season will be held in India. As per a report in Sportstar, BCCI are likely to host the league across six venues. Five venues in Maharashtra have been 'zeroed in on' -- due avoid flight travel amid such testing times nationwide -- whereas the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad will host the knockout games. For the unversed, the IPL 15 season is set to welcome two new teams -- Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Gujarat Titans (GT) -- as the number of games in the league will also increase. It will be a 70-match league stage followed by the playoffs (with the total being 74). ALSO READ | From Jason Holder to Tim David: 5 underrated overseas stars who fetched big-fat cheques at mega auction The 15th season will be held in India from March 27 to May 28. The report further stated that the Sourav Ganguly-led BCCI are also keen on hosting a couple of games at Jio Stadium, Navi Mumbai. Meanwhile, the Wankhede Stadium, Brabourne Stadium, Dr. D.Y. Patil Sports Stadium, Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium (in Pune) will host the majority of games during the league stage. The report has added that the apex cricket board is expected to share the detailed schedule of the forthcoming season by February-end. The MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are the defending champions, having clinched the title for the fourth time during IPL 2021.

IPL 2022: BCCI likely to be host 15th edition across 6 venues from March 27 to May 28 - Report

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