<p>On Wednesday (December 8), BCCI named Rohit Sharma as the new Team India ODI captain, replacing Virat Kohli. Many believe it was always coming ever since Kohli stepped aside as the T20I captain post the World Cup in the UAE.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reacting to the development, BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly explained the thinking behind Kohli's removal and Rohit's appointment. He told ANI, "t's a call that the BCCI and the selectors took together.&nbsp;Actually, the BCCI had requested Virat to not step down as the T20I skipper but obviously, he did not agree. And the selectors then did not feel it right to have two different captains for two white-ball formats. So it was decided that Virat will continue as Test captain and Rohit will take over as the white-ball captain. I as President personally spoke to Virat Kohli and the chairman of selectors has also spoken to him."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-succeeds-virat-kohli-sourav-ganguly-breaks-silence-as-hitman-named-indias-odi-captain-435527"><strong>Rohit Sharma succeeds Virat Kohli: Sourav Ganguly breaks silence as Hitman named India's ODI captain</strong></a></p>

<p>Former Pakistan captain Salman Butt has also reacted to the ODI captaincy switch in Team India, seeing Rohit become the limited-overs captain&nbsp;altogether. On his YouTube channel, Butt said, "This doesn't come as a surprise to me. It was on the cards. It doesn't make sense anyway if he's only the T20I captain. It makes sense to segregate between white between red ball and white ball to reduce the pressure on a certain player. India doesn't not play a lot T20Is; they mainly play ODIs and Tests. In order to reduce workload (off Kohli), the entire white-ball captaincy had to go one way."</p>

<p>"Like I said, there is no element of surprise here. It's a good thing because you will see Virat Kohli's performance getting better because he was extremely overloaded.</p>

<p>"And as it is, the volume of cricket that India plays is very high. The pressure is even higher when all eyes are on him and people only talk about him not scoring runs. For people, him scoring 50s did not amount to anything. I reckon this was a perfect exchange with Rohit Sharma," the tainted player added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hes-still-a-leader-of-the-team-indias-newly-appointed-limited-overs-captain-rohit-sharma-opines-on-virat-kohli-435550"><strong>He's still a leader of the team: India's newly-appointed limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma opines on Virat Kohli</strong></a></p>

<p>Under Rohit, India will now look to end their eight-year-long ICC-title drought. While India did enjoy considerable success under Kohli's leadership in the shorter formats, he couldn't lead the national side to an ICC trophy. In addition, the&nbsp;BCCI as well as the selectors wanted one captain for the white-ball formats, hence, the 33-year-old got replaced from the top post in ODIs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At present, India is set to tour South Africa where they will three Tests and ODIs each starting from December 26. Kohli will continue to lead in Tests, with Rohit being promoted as his deputy in whites, whereas Hitman will take charge of the limited-overs side altogether.</p>


On Wednesday (December 8), BCCI named Rohit Sharma as the new Team India ODI captain, replacing Virat Kohli. Many believe it was always coming ever since Kohli stepped aside as the T20I captain post the World Cup in the UAE.

On Wednesday (December 8), BCCI named Rohit Sharma as the new Team India ODI captain, replacing Virat Kohli. Many believe it was always coming ever since Kohli stepped aside as the T20I captain post the World Cup in the UAE. Reacting to the development, BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly explained the thinking behind Kohli's removal and Rohit's appointment. He told ANI, "t's a call that the BCCI and the selectors took together. Actually, the BCCI had requested Virat to not step down as the T20I skipper but obviously, he did not agree. And the selectors then did not feel it right to have two different captains for two white-ball formats. So it was decided that Virat will continue as Test captain and Rohit will take over as the white-ball captain. I as President personally spoke to Virat Kohli and the chairman of selectors has also spoken to him." ALSO READ | Rohit Sharma succeeds Virat Kohli: Sourav Ganguly breaks silence as Hitman named India's ODI captain Former Pakistan captain Salman Butt has also reacted to the ODI captaincy switch in Team India, seeing Rohit become the limited-overs captain altogether. On his YouTube channel, Butt said, "This doesn't come as a surprise to me. It was on the cards. It doesn't make sense anyway if he's only the T20I captain. It makes sense to segregate between white between red ball and white ball to reduce the pressure on a certain player. India doesn't not play a lot T20Is; they mainly play ODIs and Tests. In order to reduce workload (off Kohli), the entire white-ball captaincy had to go one way." "Like I said, there is no element of surprise here. It's a good thing because you will see Virat Kohli's performance getting better because he was extremely overloaded. "And as it is, the volume of cricket that India plays is very high. The pressure is even higher when all eyes are on him and people only talk about him not scoring runs. For people, him scoring 50s did not amount to anything. I reckon this was a perfect exchange with Rohit Sharma," the tainted player added. ALSO READ | He's still a leader of the team: India's newly-appointed limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma opines on Virat Kohli Under Rohit, India will now look to end their eight-year-long ICC-title drought. While India did enjoy considerable success under Kohli's leadership in the shorter formats, he couldn't lead the national side to an ICC trophy. In addition, the BCCI as well as the selectors wanted one captain for the white-ball formats, hence, the 33-year-old got replaced from the top post in ODIs. At present, India is set to tour South Africa where they will three Tests and ODIs each starting from December 26. Kohli will continue to lead in Tests, with Rohit being promoted as his deputy in whites, whereas Hitman will take charge of the limited-overs side altogether.

'Doesn't make sense...' - Former Pak captain reacts as Rohit replaces Kohli to become India's ODI skipper

<p>The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Thursday thanked Virat Kohli for leading Team India with "grit, passion and determination".</p>

<p>Opening batter Rohit Sharma was on Wednesday named India's new ODI skipper and the star player will take over from Kohli starting with the South Africa series in January next year.</p>

<p>"A leader who led the side with grit, passion &amp; determination. Flag of IndiaTop with upwards arrow above. Thank you Captain .@imVkohli," BCCI tweeted.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hes-still-a-leader-of-the-team-indias-newly-appointed-limited-overs-captain-rohit-sharma-opines-on-virat-kohli-435550">He's still a leader of the team: India's newly-appointed limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma opines on Virat Kohli</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A leader who led the side with grit, passion &amp; determination. 🇮🇳🔝<br />
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Thank you Captain <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a>!👏👏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/gz7r6KCuWF">pic.twitter.com/gz7r6KCuWF</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1468919777120829441?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 9, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Rohit was also named as India's Test vice-captain as the All-India Senior Selection Committee picked an 18-member squad for the upcoming three-match Test series against South Africa.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">ᴛʜʀᴏᴡʙᴀᴄᴋ <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> announced his arrival as <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> ODI captain with a stunning match-winning knock in the chase in Pune. 🔥 🔥<br />
<br />
Relive that batting masterclass against England 🎥 🔽</p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1468929218738229248?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 9, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>The Test series which gets underway from December 26 will form a part of the new cycle of the ICC World Test Championship.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-succeeds-virat-kohli-sourav-ganguly-breaks-silence-as-hitman-named-indias-odi-captain-435527"><strong>Rohit Sharma succeeds Virat Kohli: Sourav Ganguly breaks silence as Hitman named India's ODI captain</strong></a></p>

<p>India's Test squad: Virat Kohli (Captain), Rohit Sharma (vice-captain), KL Rahul, Mayank Agarwal, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Shreyas Iyer, Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant (wk), Wriddhiman Saha (wk), R Ashwin, Jayant Yadav, Ishant Sharma, Mohd. Shami, Umesh Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Shardul Thakur, Md. Siraj.Standby Players: Navdeep Saini, Saurabh Kumar, Deepak Chahar, Arzan Nagwaswalla.&nbsp;</p>


The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Thursday thanked Virat Kohli for leading Team India with "grit, passion and determination". Opening batter Rohit Sharma was on Wednesday named India's new ODI skipper and the star player will take over from Kohli starting with the South Africa series in January next year.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Thursday thanked Virat Kohli for leading Team India with "grit, passion and determination". Opening batter Rohit Sharma was on Wednesday named India's new ODI skipper and the star player will take over from Kohli starting with the South Africa series in January next year. "A leader who led the side with grit, passion & determination. Flag of IndiaTop with upwards arrow above. Thank you Captain .@imVkohli," BCCI tweeted. ALSO READ: He's still a leader of the team: India's newly-appointed limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma opines on Virat Kohli A leader who led the side with grit, passion & determination. 🇮🇳🔝 Thank you Captain @imVkohli!👏👏#TeamIndia pic.twitter.com/gz7r6KCuWF — BCCI (@BCCI) December 9, 2021 × Rohit was also named as India's Test vice-captain as the All-India Senior Selection Committee picked an 18-member squad for the upcoming three-match Test series against South Africa. ᴛʜʀᴏᴡʙᴀᴄᴋ @imVkohli announced his arrival as #TeamIndia ODI captain with a stunning match-winning knock in the chase in Pune. 🔥 🔥 Relive that batting masterclass against England 🎥 🔽 — BCCI (@BCCI) December 9, 2021 × The Test series which gets underway from December 26 will form a part of the new cycle of the ICC World Test Championship. ALSO READ | Rohit Sharma succeeds Virat Kohli: Sourav Ganguly breaks silence as Hitman named India's ODI captain India's Test squad: Virat Kohli (Captain), Rohit Sharma (vice-captain), KL Rahul, Mayank Agarwal, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Shreyas Iyer, Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant (wk), Wriddhiman Saha (wk), R Ashwin, Jayant Yadav, Ishant Sharma, Mohd. Shami, Umesh Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Shardul Thakur, Md. Siraj.Standby Players: Navdeep Saini, Saurabh Kumar, Deepak Chahar, Arzan Nagwaswalla.

'Thank you Captain', BCCI thanks Virat Kohli for his service as Team India's ODI captain

<p>India's Jhilli Dalabehera won a silver medal in the Commonwealth Weightlifting Championships in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, which is being held alongside the World Championships.<br />
<br />
Jhilli, the 22-year weightlifter from Odisha's tribal Mayurbhanj district, finished second in the women's 49 kg, the same weight class in which Mirabai Chanu won silver in Tokyo Olympics Games. Mirabai is not participating in this event as she is on a break.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-2020-star-neeraj-chopra-emerges-as-most-searched-personality-on-google-by-countrymen-in-2021-435426"><strong>Tokyo 2020 star Neeraj Chopra emerges as most-searched personality on Google by countrymen in 2021</strong></a><br />
<br />
Jhilli, who is an Asian champion and a bronze medallist in the World junior in 45kg but has moved up to 49kg as 45kg is not a recognised Olympic discipline, came up with the best effort of 73kg in snatch and 94 kg in clean and jerk for a total of 167kg -- her personal best in this class.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Weightlifting?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Weightlifting</a> Medal Update<br />
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🇮🇳's <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JhilliDalabehera?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JhilliDalabehera</a> 🏋️‍♀️ lifts a total of 167kg with 73kg in Snatch &amp; 94kg in Clean &amp; Jerk to win 3️⃣ medals in Women's 49kg (GOLD🥇in Snatch &amp; SILVER🥈in Total and Clean &amp; Jerk category) at ongoing Commonwealth Senior C'ships 2021<br />
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Congrats 👏 <a href="https://t.co/XaN8ssKomV">pic.twitter.com/XaN8ssKomV</a></p>
— SAI Media (@Media_SAI) <a href="https://twitter.com/Media_SAI/status/1468841027200905226?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 9, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>She finished second in the Commonwealth nations, behind Nigeria's Peter Stella Kingsley, who lifted 168kg (72 + 96).</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/italys-olympic-bronze-medal-winning-boxer-irma-testa-comes-out-as-gay-433948">Italy's Olympic bronze medal-winning boxer Irma Testa comes out as gay</a></strong><br />
<br />
Though the Commonwealth Weightlifting Championship is a qualifying event for next year's Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, Jhilli could clinch her berth on Thursday as only the gold medallists at Tashkent make the grade.</p>


India's Jhilli Dalabehera won a silver medal in the Commonwealth Weightlifting Championships in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, which is being held alongside the World Championships.

India's Jhilli Dalabehera won a silver medal in the Commonwealth Weightlifting Championships in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, which is being held alongside the World Championships. Jhilli, the 22-year weightlifter from Odisha's tribal Mayurbhanj district, finished second in the women's 49 kg, the same weight class in which Mirabai Chanu won silver in Tokyo Olympics Games. Mirabai is not participating in this event as she is on a break. ALSO READ: Tokyo 2020 star Neeraj Chopra emerges as most-searched personality on Google by countrymen in 2021 Jhilli, who is an Asian champion and a bronze medallist in the World junior in 45kg but has moved up to 49kg as 45kg is not a recognised Olympic discipline, came up with the best effort of 73kg in snatch and 94 kg in clean and jerk for a total of 167kg -- her personal best in this class. #Weightlifting Medal Update 🇮🇳's #JhilliDalabehera 🏋️‍♀️ lifts a total of 167kg with 73kg in Snatch & 94kg in Clean & Jerk to win 3️⃣ medals in Women's 49kg (GOLD🥇in Snatch & SILVER🥈in Total and Clean & Jerk category) at ongoing Commonwealth Senior C'ships 2021 Congrats 👏 pic.twitter.com/XaN8ssKomV — SAI Media (@Media_SAI) December 9, 2021 × She finished second in the Commonwealth nations, behind Nigeria's Peter Stella Kingsley, who lifted 168kg (72 + 96). ALSO READ: Italy's Olympic bronze medal-winning boxer Irma Testa comes out as gay Though the Commonwealth Weightlifting Championship is a qualifying event for next year's Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, Jhilli could clinch her berth on Thursday as only the gold medallists at Tashkent make the grade.

Commonwealth Weightlifting Championship: India's Jhillia Dalabehera bags silver in 49kg category

<p>Former Pakistan skipper Shahid Afridi will represent Quetta Gladiators in what will be his farewell Pakistan Super League (PSL) after participating for Multan Sultan's last year in the tournament.</p>

<p>According to Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), also moving from Sultan to Gladiators is England's James Vince and Multan Sultans will take Quetta's Diamond and Silver round picks, respectively.</p>

<p>"I am excited to join Quetta Gladiators, a side that has had a roller-coaster ride in the past few events despite winning the title in 2019. In my final HBL PSL event, it will my dream and wish to sign off with another HBL PSL trophy after tasting success with Peshawar Zalmi in 2017," said Afridi in a PCB statement on Thursday.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/2nd-test-dhaka-pakistan-sweep-series-vs-bangladesh-with-an-innings-and-8-run-win-on-final-day-435167">2nd Test, Dhaka: Pakistan sweep series vs Bangladesh with an innings and 8 run-win on final day</a></strong></p>

<p>"HBL PSL is an event that encourages and inspires a player to give his very best. I will use the same motivation to help my team and put up performances that can help us achieve our event objectives," he added.</p>

<p>In another major trade, player of the National T20 Iftikhar Ahmed has joined Quetta after being part of Islamabad United for the 2021 season. He has swapped teams with wicketkeeper/batter Azam Khan, who has moved to Islamabad United from Quetta Gladiators.</p>

<p>"It has been a difficult decision to move from Islamabad United, but looking ahead to my future in T20 cricket that is linked to the Pakistan team, I thought this was the best move," said Iftikhar</p>

<p>"I am grateful to the Islamabad United management for their support and understanding, as they have continued to stand behind me in all my decisions."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-babar-azam-bowls-for-the-first-time-in-international-cricket-nearly-gets-his-maiden-wicket-434883"><strong>WATCH: Babar Azam bowls for the first time in international cricket, nearly gets his maiden wicket</strong></a></p>

<p>The PSL Draft 2022 will be held at the High-Performance Centre in Lahore on Sunday. Each side will come to the draft with a maximum of eight-player retentions from the last event.&nbsp;</p>


Former Pakistan skipper Shahid Afridi will represent Quetta Gladiators in what will be his farewell Pakistan Super League (PSL) after participating for Multan Sultan's last year in the tournament.

Former Pakistan skipper Shahid Afridi will represent Quetta Gladiators in what will be his farewell Pakistan Super League (PSL) after participating for Multan Sultan's last year in the tournament. According to Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), also moving from Sultan to Gladiators is England's James Vince and Multan Sultans will take Quetta's Diamond and Silver round picks, respectively. "I am excited to join Quetta Gladiators, a side that has had a roller-coaster ride in the past few events despite winning the title in 2019. In my final HBL PSL event, it will my dream and wish to sign off with another HBL PSL trophy after tasting success with Peshawar Zalmi in 2017," said Afridi in a PCB statement on Thursday. ALSO READ: 2nd Test, Dhaka: Pakistan sweep series vs Bangladesh with an innings and 8 run-win on final day "HBL PSL is an event that encourages and inspires a player to give his very best. I will use the same motivation to help my team and put up performances that can help us achieve our event objectives," he added. In another major trade, player of the National T20 Iftikhar Ahmed has joined Quetta after being part of Islamabad United for the 2021 season. He has swapped teams with wicketkeeper/batter Azam Khan, who has moved to Islamabad United from Quetta Gladiators. "It has been a difficult decision to move from Islamabad United, but looking ahead to my future in T20 cricket that is linked to the Pakistan team, I thought this was the best move," said Iftikhar "I am grateful to the Islamabad United management for their support and understanding, as they have continued to stand behind me in all my decisions." ALSO READ | WATCH: Babar Azam bowls for the first time in international cricket, nearly gets his maiden wicket The PSL Draft 2022 will be held at the High-Performance Centre in Lahore on Sunday. Each side will come to the draft with a maximum of eight-player retentions from the last event.

Former Pakistan all-rounder Shahid Afridi to play his farewell PSL season for Quetta Gladiators

<p>BCCI named Rohit Sharma as the new Team India captain in ODIs on Wednesday (December 8). Thus, Rohit is now India's limited-overs captain whereas Virat Kohli remains in-charge of the Test side. Recently, Rohit lavished huge praise on King Kohli, who he believes will remain a leader in the team.</p>

<p>During a recent interaction, when he wasn't officially announced as the ODI captain, Hitman spoke highly of Virat and how the team will continue to benefit having the former captain in the limited-overs format.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-succeeds-virat-kohli-sourav-ganguly-breaks-silence-as-hitman-named-indias-odi-captain-435527"><strong>Rohit Sharma succeeds Virat Kohli: Sourav Ganguly breaks silence as Hitman named India's ODI captain</strong></a></p>

<p>"A batter of Kohli's quality is always needed in the squad. To have an average of 50 plus in the T20 format, it is crazy and unreal. Obviously, with the experience... he has batted and bailed India out so many times from difficult situations.</p>

<p>"The quality and his kind of batsmanship is required. Plus, he is still a leader of the team. All those things put together, you don’t want to miss out. You don’t want to ignore that kind of stuff. His presence is very important to the team," said Rohit on&nbsp;the show 'Backstage with Boria', organised by veteran sports journalist Boria Majumdar</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-is-not-overawed-ravi-shastri-gives-his-take-on-captain-rohit-sharma-as-hitman-succeeds-virat-kohli-435518"><strong>'He is not overawed' - Ravi Shastri gives his take on Captain Rohit Sharma as Hitman succeeds Virat Kohli</strong></a></p>

<p>Under Kohli, India dominated the bilateral series -- both in T20Is and ODIs. In the shortest format, India won bilaterals in SENA countries, beat West Indies in the Caribbean island, Sri Lanka in their own backyard and also thrashed oppositions at home. In ODIs, the 33-year-old led India to the 2017 Champions Trophy final and 2019 ODI World Cup semi-finals and also won bilateral series in South Africa, Australia and New Zealand. Nonetheless, India couldn't end their eight-year-long ICC-title drought.</p>

<p>Rohit will now like to make the most of Kohli's presence as a batter and take Indian cricket to greater heights in the shorter formats.&nbsp;</p>


BCCI named Rohit Sharma as the new Team India captain in ODIs on Wednesday (December 8). Thus, Rohit is now India's limited-overs captain whereas Virat Kohli remains in-charge of the Test side.

BCCI named Rohit Sharma as the new Team India captain in ODIs on Wednesday (December 8). Thus, Rohit is now India's limited-overs captain whereas Virat Kohli remains in-charge of the Test side. Recently, Rohit lavished huge praise on King Kohli, who he believes will remain a leader in the team. During a recent interaction, when he wasn't officially announced as the ODI captain, Hitman spoke highly of Virat and how the team will continue to benefit having the former captain in the limited-overs format. ALSO READ | Rohit Sharma succeeds Virat Kohli: Sourav Ganguly breaks silence as Hitman named India's ODI captain "A batter of Kohli's quality is always needed in the squad. To have an average of 50 plus in the T20 format, it is crazy and unreal. Obviously, with the experience... he has batted and bailed India out so many times from difficult situations. "The quality and his kind of batsmanship is required. Plus, he is still a leader of the team. All those things put together, you don’t want to miss out. You don’t want to ignore that kind of stuff. His presence is very important to the team," said Rohit on the show 'Backstage with Boria', organised by veteran sports journalist Boria Majumdar ALSO READ | 'He is not overawed' - Ravi Shastri gives his take on Captain Rohit Sharma as Hitman succeeds Virat Kohli Under Kohli, India dominated the bilateral series -- both in T20Is and ODIs. In the shortest format, India won bilaterals in SENA countries, beat West Indies in the Caribbean island, Sri Lanka in their own backyard and also thrashed oppositions at home. In ODIs, the 33-year-old led India to the 2017 Champions Trophy final and 2019 ODI World Cup semi-finals and also won bilateral series in South Africa, Australia and New Zealand. Nonetheless, India couldn't end their eight-year-long ICC-title drought. Rohit will now like to make the most of Kohli's presence as a batter and take Indian cricket to greater heights in the shorter formats.

He's still a leader of the team: India's newly-appointed limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma opines on Virat Kohli

<p>Former captain Shantha Rangaswamy believes Smriti Mandhana is the best contender to lead India once ODI and Test skipper Mithali Raj retires after the Women's World Cup in New Zealand next year.</p>

<p>Harmanpreet Kaur has been the T20 captain since 2016, but her inconsistency as a batter makes her an unlikely replacement for Mithali in the longer forms. Mandhana, on the other hand, has established herself among&nbsp;one of the world's top batters.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/who-will-be-rohit-sharmas-deputy-in-odis-kl-rahul-rishabh-pant-in-contention-report-435381">Who will be Rohit Sharma's deputy in ODIs? KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant in contention: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>"Smriti is the ideal choice after Mithali retires. She has been an excellent performer for India and should be given the opportunity to lead the country,"&nbsp;Shantha, who guided India to their maiden Test victory in 1976, said according to PTI.<br />
<br />
Shantha, who is also a member of the BCCI Apex Council, believes Harmanpreet's batting has been impacted because of the burden of&nbsp;captaincy, which she believes is critical to India's success.</p>

<p>Mandhana, who has played four Tests, 62 ODIs, and 84 T20s, was last seen in Australia during the Women's Big Bash. In the cash-rich league, she also got a century against the Melbourne Renegades.</p>

<p>Harmanpreet, who has struggled with form and fitness over the previous year, also performed well in the Big Bash, and it remains to be seen if she can maintain that form at the top level.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-drops-a-bomb-rohit-sharma-replaces-virat-kohli-as-indias-odi-captain-ahead-of-sa-series-435208"><strong>BCCI drops a bomb! Rohit Sharma replaces Virat Kohli as India's ODI captain ahead of SA series</strong></a></p>

<p>Before&nbsp;the&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;in&nbsp;March-April,&nbsp;India&nbsp;will&nbsp;play&nbsp;an&nbsp;away&nbsp;series&nbsp;against&nbsp;New&nbsp;Zealand. For the unversed, India&nbsp;were&nbsp;the&nbsp;runners-up in the previous edition in 2017.</p>

<p>Shantha said the Women's Challenger, which concluded on Thursday (December 9), indicated that there is no shortage of talent in the country. "The event has unearthed a lot of talent which augurs well for women's cricket. It also shows that we are ready for a Women's IPL," she added.</p>


Former captain Shantha Rangaswamy believes Smriti Mandhana is the best contender to lead India once ODI and Test skipper Mithali Raj retires after the Women's World Cup in New Zealand next year.

Former captain Shantha Rangaswamy believes Smriti Mandhana is the best contender to lead India once ODI and Test skipper Mithali Raj retires after the Women's World Cup in New Zealand next year. Harmanpreet Kaur has been the T20 captain since 2016, but her inconsistency as a batter makes her an unlikely replacement for Mithali in the longer forms. Mandhana, on the other hand, has established herself among one of the world's top batters. ALSO READ: Who will be Rohit Sharma's deputy in ODIs? KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant in contention: Report "Smriti is the ideal choice after Mithali retires. She has been an excellent performer for India and should be given the opportunity to lead the country," Shantha, who guided India to their maiden Test victory in 1976, said according to PTI. Shantha, who is also a member of the BCCI Apex Council, believes Harmanpreet's batting has been impacted because of the burden of captaincy, which she believes is critical to India's success. Mandhana, who has played four Tests, 62 ODIs, and 84 T20s, was last seen in Australia during the Women's Big Bash. In the cash-rich league, she also got a century against the Melbourne Renegades. Harmanpreet, who has struggled with form and fitness over the previous year, also performed well in the Big Bash, and it remains to be seen if she can maintain that form at the top level. ALSO READ | BCCI drops a bomb! Rohit Sharma replaces Virat Kohli as India's ODI captain ahead of SA series Before the World Cup in March-April, India will play an away series against New Zealand. For the unversed, India were the runners-up in the previous edition in 2017. Shantha said the Women's Challenger, which concluded on Thursday (December 9), indicated that there is no shortage of talent in the country. "The event has unearthed a lot of talent which augurs well for women's cricket. It also shows that we are ready for a Women's IPL," she added.

Smriti Mandhana ideal candidate to succeed Mithali Raj after her retirement, says former Indian cricketer

<p>BCCI dropped a bomb on Wednesday (December 8) as the board announced Rohit Sharma as the new Team India ODI captain. Many believed Virat Kohli was set to lose the top job in the ODI format after he resigned as the T20I skipper.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per reports, the BCCI had given Kohli 48 hours to announce that he would be stepping aside as the ODI captain. However, when the 33-year-old chose to remain silent, the board went ahead by announcing Rohit as the new captain in the 50-over format. For the unversed, Rohit had already succeeded Kohli as the T20I captain and, hence, will now serve as the limited-overs skipper altogether.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-is-not-overawed-ravi-shastri-gives-his-take-on-captain-rohit-sharma-as-hitman-succeeds-virat-kohli-435518"><strong>'He is not overawed' - Ravi Shastri gives his take on Captain Rohit Sharma as Hitman succeeds Virat Kohli</strong></a></p>

<p>BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly finally reacted to big development and broke his silence on Kohli being replaced by Hitman. “It's a call that the BCCI and the selectors took together,” Ganguly told ANI.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Actually, the BCCI had requested Virat to not step down as the T20I skipper but obviously, he did not agree. And the selectors then did not feel it right to have two different captains for two white-ball formats. So it was decided that Virat will continue as Test captain and Rohit will take over as the white-ball captain. I as President personally spoke to Virat Kohli and the chairman of selectors has also spoken to him," he stated.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/thats-something-that-he-will-be-able-rohit-sharma-opines-on-team-india-head-coach-rahul-dravid-435510"><strong>'That's something that he will be able...' - Rohit Sharma opines on Team India head coach Rahul Dravid</strong></a></p>

<p>The BCCI President added, "We have full faith in Rohit Sharma's leadership abilities, and Virat will continue as the Test captain. We as BCCI are confident that Indian cricket is in good hands. We thank Virat Kohli for his contributions as captain in the white-ball format."</p>

<p>Talking about Kohli's run as an ODI captain, he led India to the 2017 Champions Trophy final and the semi-final of the 2019 ODI WC. He ended with a win percentage of over 70 (70.43), however, couldn't end India's eight-year-long ICC-title drought.</p>

<p>Thus, Indian cricket will start a new era in their forthcoming tour of South Africa, where they will have Kohli serving as the Test captain whereas Rohit will start his journey as the shorter formats' skipper.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India's tour of SA comprises three Tests and ODIs each, which will commence with the Test series on December 26 in Centurion.</p>


BCCI dropped a bomb on Wednesday (December 8) as the board announced Rohit Sharma as the new Team India ODI captain. Many believed Virat Kohli was set to lose the top job in the ODI format after he resigned as the T20I skipper.

BCCI dropped a bomb on Wednesday (December 8) as the board announced Rohit Sharma as the new Team India ODI captain. Many believed Virat Kohli was set to lose the top job in the ODI format after he resigned as the T20I skipper. As per reports, the BCCI had given Kohli 48 hours to announce that he would be stepping aside as the ODI captain. However, when the 33-year-old chose to remain silent, the board went ahead by announcing Rohit as the new captain in the 50-over format. For the unversed, Rohit had already succeeded Kohli as the T20I captain and, hence, will now serve as the limited-overs skipper altogether. ALSO READ | 'He is not overawed' - Ravi Shastri gives his take on Captain Rohit Sharma as Hitman succeeds Virat Kohli BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly finally reacted to big development and broke his silence on Kohli being replaced by Hitman. “It's a call that the BCCI and the selectors took together,” Ganguly told ANI. "Actually, the BCCI had requested Virat to not step down as the T20I skipper but obviously, he did not agree. And the selectors then did not feel it right to have two different captains for two white-ball formats. So it was decided that Virat will continue as Test captain and Rohit will take over as the white-ball captain. I as President personally spoke to Virat Kohli and the chairman of selectors has also spoken to him," he stated. ALSO READ | 'That's something that he will be able...' - Rohit Sharma opines on Team India head coach Rahul Dravid The BCCI President added, "We have full faith in Rohit Sharma's leadership abilities, and Virat will continue as the Test captain. We as BCCI are confident that Indian cricket is in good hands. We thank Virat Kohli for his contributions as captain in the white-ball format." Talking about Kohli's run as an ODI captain, he led India to the 2017 Champions Trophy final and the semi-final of the 2019 ODI WC. He ended with a win percentage of over 70 (70.43), however, couldn't end India's eight-year-long ICC-title drought. Thus, Indian cricket will start a new era in their forthcoming tour of South Africa, where they will have Kohli serving as the Test captain whereas Rohit will start his journey as the shorter formats' skipper. India's tour of SA comprises three Tests and ODIs each, which will commence with the Test series on December 26 in Centurion.

Rohit Sharma succeeds Virat Kohli: Sourav Ganguly breaks silence as Hitman named India's ODI captain

<p>Team India got a new ODI captain in the form of Rohit Sharma on Wednesday evening (December 8). The BCCI made the official announcement as there were speculations that Virat Kohli was on the verge of losing ODI captaincy after stepping down as the T20I captain recently.</p>

<p>As per reports, Kohli was given a 48-hours deadline by the BCCI to officially announce him stepping down as the ODI captain. However, the the Indian cricket board went ahead with the decision to name Rohit as Kohli's successor in ODIs after the 33-year-old remained mum and didn't officially step aside. While speculations are rife, Indian cricket is heading into a new era under Rohit Sharma in the shorter formats.</p>

<p>Ravi Shastri, who served as India's team director from 2014-2016 and then as head coach from mid-2017 to late 2021, opened up on Captain Rohit and also spoke highly of both 'superstars' Kohli and Hitman.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/thats-something-that-he-will-be-able-rohit-sharma-opines-on-team-india-head-coach-rahul-dravid-435510">'That's something that he will be able...' - Rohit Sharma opines on Team India head coach Rahul Dravid</a></strong></p>

<p>"Rohit is not overawed; he always does what is best for the team. He marshalls all the resources of the team unlike, let's say, in football," Shastri told The Week in an interview.</p>

<p>He added, "In 2014, when I first came in, there was only one big player – MS Dhoni. Who else was there? Who was superstar material? Virat, and maybe Rohit Sharma, in white-ball cricket. To see these two guys come through and become great players in red- and white-ball cricket, to have a great fast-bowling attack, to beat Australia in their backyard – there have been so many firsts with this team. It is overwhelming."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/throwback-when-virat-kohli-had-seen-a-future-team-india-captain-in-rohit-sharma-435458"><strong>Throwback: When Virat Kohli had seen a future Team India captain in Rohit Sharma</strong></a></p>

<p>Rohit Sharma will now lead Team India in ODIs and T20Is whereas he has also been promoted as the vice-captain in Tests. Kohli, on the other hand, remains in-charge of the Test side but has been relived of leadership duties in the limited-overs format.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At present, India is gearing up to tour South Africa where they will play three Tests and ODIs each. The tour opener will commence on December 26.</p>


Team India got a new ODI captain in the form of Rohit Sharma on Wednesday evening (December 8). The BCCI made the official announcement as there were speculations that Virat Kohli was on the verge of losing ODI captaincy after stepping down as the T20I captain recently.

Team India got a new ODI captain in the form of Rohit Sharma on Wednesday evening (December 8). The BCCI made the official announcement as there were speculations that Virat Kohli was on the verge of losing ODI captaincy after stepping down as the T20I captain recently. As per reports, Kohli was given a 48-hours deadline by the BCCI to officially announce him stepping down as the ODI captain. However, the the Indian cricket board went ahead with the decision to name Rohit as Kohli's successor in ODIs after the 33-year-old remained mum and didn't officially step aside. While speculations are rife, Indian cricket is heading into a new era under Rohit Sharma in the shorter formats. Ravi Shastri, who served as India's team director from 2014-2016 and then as head coach from mid-2017 to late 2021, opened up on Captain Rohit and also spoke highly of both 'superstars' Kohli and Hitman. ALSO READ | 'That's something that he will be able...' - Rohit Sharma opines on Team India head coach Rahul Dravid "Rohit is not overawed; he always does what is best for the team. He marshalls all the resources of the team unlike, let's say, in football," Shastri told The Week in an interview. He added, "In 2014, when I first came in, there was only one big player – MS Dhoni. Who else was there? Who was superstar material? Virat, and maybe Rohit Sharma, in white-ball cricket. To see these two guys come through and become great players in red- and white-ball cricket, to have a great fast-bowling attack, to beat Australia in their backyard – there have been so many firsts with this team. It is overwhelming." ALSO READ | Throwback: When Virat Kohli had seen a future Team India captain in Rohit Sharma Rohit Sharma will now lead Team India in ODIs and T20Is whereas he has also been promoted as the vice-captain in Tests. Kohli, on the other hand, remains in-charge of the Test side but has been relived of leadership duties in the limited-overs format. At present, India is gearing up to tour South Africa where they will play three Tests and ODIs each. The tour opener will commence on December 26.

'He is not overawed' - Ravi Shastri gives his take on Captain Rohit Sharma as Hitman succeeds Virat Kohli

<p>Pele was hospitalised for a scheduled procedure as part of his treatment for a colon tumor and the Brazilian soccer great will be home in time to spend Christmas with his family, his daughter Kely Nascimento said.</p>

<p>Three-time World Cup winner Pele, who was admitted to Sao Paulo's Hospital Albert Einstein on Wednesday, underwent an operation to remove the tumor in September and spent nearly a month under care.</p>

<p>The hospital said at the time that the 81-year-old would need to undergo chemotherapy.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lionel-messi-surpasses-pele-with-twin-strikes-vs-club-brugge-eyes-arch-rival-cr7s-goal-tally-435052">Lionel Messi surpasses Pele with twin strikes vs Club Brugge, eyes arch-rival CR7's goal tally</a></strong></p>

<p>"In two or three days he will be back home to enjoy Christmas," his daughter said on Instagram. "This was not a surprise. It was already scheduled and is part of the treatment."</p>

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<p>Widely considered to be one of the greatest footballers of all time, Pele has suffered from a series of health issues in recent years. Hip surgery left him with recurring pain and he cannot now walk unaided.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-legend-pele-hospitalized-again-to-undergo-colon-tumor-treatment-435249">Football legend Pele hospitalized again to undergo colon tumor treatment</a></strong></p>

<p>He appeared upbeat in videos taken during his recovery period in September and October and he said on Twitter last month that he was feeling better.</p>


Pele was hospitalised for a scheduled procedure as part of his treatment for a colon tumor and the Brazilian soccer great will be home in time to spend Christmas with his family, his daughter Kely Nascimento said.

Pele was hospitalised for a scheduled procedure as part of his treatment for a colon tumor and the Brazilian soccer great will be home in time to spend Christmas with his family, his daughter Kely Nascimento said. Three-time World Cup winner Pele, who was admitted to Sao Paulo's Hospital Albert Einstein on Wednesday, underwent an operation to remove the tumor in September and spent nearly a month under care. The hospital said at the time that the 81-year-old would need to undergo chemotherapy. ALSO READ: Lionel Messi surpasses Pele with twin strikes vs Club Brugge, eyes arch-rival CR7's goal tally "In two or three days he will be back home to enjoy Christmas," his daughter said on Instagram. "This was not a surprise. It was already scheduled and is part of the treatment." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kely Nascimento (@iamkelynascimento) × Widely considered to be one of the greatest footballers of all time, Pele has suffered from a series of health issues in recent years. Hip surgery left him with recurring pain and he cannot now walk unaided. ALSO READ: Football legend Pele hospitalized again to undergo colon tumor treatment He appeared upbeat in videos taken during his recovery period in September and October and he said on Twitter last month that he was feeling better.

Pele will be home from hospital before Christmas after treatment for colon tumour, confirms daughter

<p>Team India have gone through rapid changes post the T20 World Cup in the UAE. While Virat Kohli had already announced his decision to step aside as the T20I captain, Rohit Sharma was named his successor whereas Rahul Dravid replaced Ravi Shastri as the national side's head coach till 2023 ODI World Cup.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Wednesday (December 8), Rohit was also named as the ODI captain as Hitman will take charge of the side in limited-overs. Recently, the 34-year-old Indian opener opined on Dravid the coach during a recent interaction in a&nbsp;show 'Backstage with Boria'.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/throwback-when-virat-kohli-had-seen-a-future-team-india-captain-in-rohit-sharma-435458"><strong>Throwback: When Virat Kohli had seen a future Team India captain in Rohit Sharma</strong></a></p>

<p>Rohit opened up on Dravid's impact on the team and stated what the current coach will be able to create within Team India. Rohit&nbsp;said, "Rahul Bhai was a brilliant cricketer, we all know that without a doubt. We all know how he has played his cricket. He himself has come out and said on so many occasions that he was not so talented. He had to work so hard to get where he is today. I think that is going to reflect on this team as well."</p>

<p>Rohit further asserted, "That nothing is given on a platter to anyone. He will make you work hard. Obviously, when you do that, when you enjoy that process, you feel good about it. Because there is a process that has been put in place."</p>

<p>"And there is a structure as well. So people will enjoy that. Guys that are coming in, going out. They will have so much clarity about why they were out of the team, why they came into the team and all that. That is something that he will be able to create," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-was-given-2-days-to-resign-as-odi-captain-before-bcci-announced-rohit-as-his-successor-report-435370"><strong>Virat Kohli was given 2 days to resign as ODI captain before BCCI announced Rohit as his successor: Report</strong></a></p>

<p>Dravid has a huge task to end India's ICC-title drought, since 2013, and will have to work with Kohli (the Test captain) and Rohit in tandem to take Indian cricket to greater heights. At present, the Indian team is gearing up to leave for South Africa where they will play three Tests and equal number of ODIs, starting from December 26.</p>


Team India have gone through rapid changes post the T20 World Cup in the UAE. While Virat Kohli had already announced his decision to step aside as the T20I captain, Rohit Sharma was named his successor whereas Rahul Dravid replaced Ravi Shastri as the national side's head coach till 2023 ODI World Cup.

Team India have gone through rapid changes post the T20 World Cup in the UAE. While Virat Kohli had already announced his decision to step aside as the T20I captain, Rohit Sharma was named his successor whereas Rahul Dravid replaced Ravi Shastri as the national side's head coach till 2023 ODI World Cup. On Wednesday (December 8), Rohit was also named as the ODI captain as Hitman will take charge of the side in limited-overs. Recently, the 34-year-old Indian opener opined on Dravid the coach during a recent interaction in a show 'Backstage with Boria'. ALSO READ | Throwback: When Virat Kohli had seen a future Team India captain in Rohit Sharma Rohit opened up on Dravid's impact on the team and stated what the current coach will be able to create within Team India. Rohit said, "Rahul Bhai was a brilliant cricketer, we all know that without a doubt. We all know how he has played his cricket. He himself has come out and said on so many occasions that he was not so talented. He had to work so hard to get where he is today. I think that is going to reflect on this team as well." Rohit further asserted, "That nothing is given on a platter to anyone. He will make you work hard. Obviously, when you do that, when you enjoy that process, you feel good about it. Because there is a process that has been put in place." "And there is a structure as well. So people will enjoy that. Guys that are coming in, going out. They will have so much clarity about why they were out of the team, why they came into the team and all that. That is something that he will be able to create," he added. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli was given 2 days to resign as ODI captain before BCCI announced Rohit as his successor: Report Dravid has a huge task to end India's ICC-title drought, since 2013, and will have to work with Kohli (the Test captain) and Rohit in tandem to take Indian cricket to greater heights. At present, the Indian team is gearing up to leave for South Africa where they will play three Tests and equal number of ODIs, starting from December 26.

'That's something that he will be able...' - Rohit Sharma opines on Team India head coach Rahul Dravid

<p>Google has recently released its year-end list about the most-searched topics in India in 2021. The IPL has emerged as the most searched topic whereas three other mega sporting events also made it to the top five.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Here's the top-five most-searched topics in India in the calendar year:</strong></p>

<p><strong>1.</strong> IPL</p>

<p><strong>2.</strong> CoWIN</p>

<p><strong>3.</strong> ICC Men's T20 World Cup</p>

<p><strong>4.</strong> Euro 2020</p>

<p><strong>5.</strong> Tokyo 2020</p>

<p>Talking about the IPL, this year's edition was the first-ever to have taken place in two halves. Hence, it generated a lot of noise. The first edition took place in India when the second wave of COVID-19 led to its indefinite postponement in early May.&nbsp;The second and final leg, on the other hand, ended in the UAE in mid-October with the MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) winning their fourth title.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ I&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>CoWIN was the second most searched topic. It doesn't come as a huge surprise given how the countrymen were constantly monitoring the official website to book their Covid vaccination slots.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The other three in the top five are T20 World Cup, Euro 2020 and the Tokyo 2020 Games. As it has been a year filled with big-ticket sporting events, it isn't surprising that the three mega events were also one of the most-searched topics in India in 2021. Interestingly, all the three events were postponed in 2020 due to the spread of the Covid-19 virus.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong></p>

<p>Talking about the T20 WC, Australia won the championship for the first-time ever whereas Italy won Euro 2020. The Indian contingent, meanwhile, had a glorious run in the Tokyo 2020 as they returned with as many as seven medals. Being India's most successful appearance in an Olympic event, the countrymen searched a lot about the tournament and made it enter the top 5 in Google's year-end list.</p>


Google has recently released its year-end list about the most-searched topics in India in 2021. The IPL has emerged as the most searched topic whereas three other mega sporting events also made it to the top five.

Google has recently released its year-end list about the most-searched topics in India in 2021. The IPL has emerged as the most searched topic whereas three other mega sporting events also made it to the top five. Here's the top-five most-searched topics in India in the calendar year: 1. IPL 2. CoWIN 3. ICC Men's T20 World Cup 4. Euro 2020 5. Tokyo 2020 Talking about the IPL, this year's edition was the first-ever to have taken place in two halves. Hence, it generated a lot of noise. The first edition took place in India when the second wave of COVID-19 led to its indefinite postponement in early May. The second and final leg, on the other hand, ended in the UAE in mid-October with the MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) winning their fourth title. ALSO READ I CoWIN was the second most searched topic. It doesn't come as a huge surprise given how the countrymen were constantly monitoring the official website to book their Covid vaccination slots. The other three in the top five are T20 World Cup, Euro 2020 and the Tokyo 2020 Games. As it has been a year filled with big-ticket sporting events, it isn't surprising that the three mega events were also one of the most-searched topics in India in 2021. Interestingly, all the three events were postponed in 2020 due to the spread of the Covid-19 virus. ALSO READ | Talking about the T20 WC, Australia won the championship for the first-time ever whereas Italy won Euro 2020. The Indian contingent, meanwhile, had a glorious run in the Tokyo 2020 as they returned with as many as seven medals. Being India's most successful appearance in an Olympic event, the countrymen searched a lot about the tournament and made it enter the top 5 in Google's year-end list.

Most-searched topic in India in 2021: IPL atop, 3 other sporting events in top-5 in Google's year-end list

<p>BCCI, on Wednesday (December 8), announced Rohit Sharma as the new Indian ODI captain, replacing Virat Kohli. Hitman was being considered for the post as soon as he succeeded Kohli as the T20I captain post the World Cup in the&nbsp;UAE.</p>

<p>Prior to the T20 WC, Kohli had announced that he would step aside as the captain in the shortest format but continue to lead in Tests and ODIs. However, BCCI named Rohit as the only white-ball captain going forward whereas Kohli will continue to call the shots in Tests.</p>

<p>Not many know that during an event in 2013, Kohli had stated that he sees a future Team India captain in Rohit.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-was-given-2-days-to-resign-as-odi-captain-before-bcci-announced-rohit-as-his-successor-report-435370"><strong>Virat Kohli was given 2 days to resign as ODI captain before BCCI announced Rohit as his successor: Report</strong></a></p>

<p>Back then, Kohli had stated, "Rohit has a tremendous cricketing brain. I often take his advice during matches. He has shown his capability while leading Mumbai Indians in the IPL." The right-hander had shared his views when asked about who can lead the team apart from him and MS Dhoni, who was the Indian captain at that time.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/who-will-be-rohit-sharmas-deputy-in-odis-kl-rahul-rishabh-pant-in-contention-report-435381">Who will be Rohit Sharma's deputy in ODIs? KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant in contention: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>It is to be noted that Rohit became a part of India's leadership group in 2017, when he was named Kohli's deputy in the shorter formats. Now being appointed as India's limited-overs captain, the onus is on Rohit to take the team forward and lead them to ICC titles (which has been missing in India's cabinet since 2013).</p>

<p>Talking about Kohli's run as ODI and T20I captain, India won bilateral T20Is in SENA countries and played the final and semi-finals of the 2017 Champions Trophy and 2019 ODI WC, respectively, but couldn't end their ICC-title drought.</p>


BCCI, on Wednesday (December 8), announced Rohit Sharma as the new Indian ODI captain, replacing Virat Kohli. Hitman was being considered for the post as soon as he succeeded Kohli as the T20I captain post the World Cup in the UAE.

BCCI, on Wednesday (December 8), announced Rohit Sharma as the new Indian ODI captain, replacing Virat Kohli. Hitman was being considered for the post as soon as he succeeded Kohli as the T20I captain post the World Cup in the UAE. Prior to the T20 WC, Kohli had announced that he would step aside as the captain in the shortest format but continue to lead in Tests and ODIs. However, BCCI named Rohit as the only white-ball captain going forward whereas Kohli will continue to call the shots in Tests. Not many know that during an event in 2013, Kohli had stated that he sees a future Team India captain in Rohit. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli was given 2 days to resign as ODI captain before BCCI announced Rohit as his successor: Report Back then, Kohli had stated, "Rohit has a tremendous cricketing brain. I often take his advice during matches. He has shown his capability while leading Mumbai Indians in the IPL." The right-hander had shared his views when asked about who can lead the team apart from him and MS Dhoni, who was the Indian captain at that time. ALSO READ | Who will be Rohit Sharma's deputy in ODIs? KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant in contention: Report It is to be noted that Rohit became a part of India's leadership group in 2017, when he was named Kohli's deputy in the shorter formats. Now being appointed as India's limited-overs captain, the onus is on Rohit to take the team forward and lead them to ICC titles (which has been missing in India's cabinet since 2013). Talking about Kohli's run as ODI and T20I captain, India won bilateral T20Is in SENA countries and played the final and semi-finals of the 2017 Champions Trophy and 2019 ODI WC, respectively, but couldn't end their ICC-title drought.

Throwback: When Virat Kohli had seen a future Team India captain in Rohit Sharma

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