<p>Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting feels that the Tim Paine saga will be talked about wherever the Australian team will go during The Ashes. He added that it might end up distracting Paine and the Australian team in their quest to retain the Ashes at home. Paine had suddenly stepped down from being the Test captain on Friday after an off-field scandal involving text messages with a former Cricket Tasmania female staffer came into limelight.<br />
<br />
"As much as we would all love to see it go away and there comes a point where it`s never talked about, it`s inevitable that it`s going to be there. If he plays in Brisbane (for the first Test), the rest of the group and everyone needs to move on and do the best they can to forget about it and knuckle down," Ponting was quoted as saying by cricket.com.au on Wednesday.<br />
<br />
"I think inevitably it will (be a distraction). Yes, he`s made a huge call for himself, for Australian cricket and for the betterment of the Australian cricket team. But it`s not going to go away. We`re only a few weeks out from the first Test - it will bubble along," added Ponting.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pat-cummins-interviewed-by-ca-for-test-captaincy-steve-smith-likely-to-be-pacers-deputy-reports-431553"><strong>Pat Cummins interviewed by CA for Test captaincy, Steve Smith likely to be pacer's deputy: Reports</strong></a></p>

<p>He also thinks that Paine will be asked about the scandal wherever he goes in future. "Unfortunately for Tim he`s going to get asked about it everywhere he goes. Whenever you make mistakes and you`ve got to front up in front of the cricket-loving public, you have some doubts in the back of your mind for a period of time."<br />
<br />
The 46-year-old believes that Paine making an on-field comeback after a neck surgery will provide him solace. In a match for Tasmania`s second XI, Paine took six catches but made just one run with the bat. "When you`re out in the middle, that`s the only place you can get away from it. The first thing he did Saturday morning was put his club gear on, head out and try to play club cricket in Hobart, which is where he will find the most serenity. When he`s out in the middle he`s got something else to focus on and think about, which is cricket. It will blow over and hopefully it passes in enough time to have some really good clear headspace going into Brisbane."<br />
<br />
Ponting signed off by saying that wicketkeeper-batter Alex Carey could be a good pick if Paine doesn`t feature in the first Ashes Test at Brisbane. For future, his pick is Josh Inglis. "If he (Paine) plays this series and he finishes at the end of the series, they might look at a younger guy. If he`s not picked for Brisbane, they might think about someone who`s a bit more experienced, being an Ashes series. If Paine doesn`t play in Brisbane the obvious one is Alex Carey. If Paine does play the Ashes series, they might look at someone like Inglis post this summer."<br />
<br />
"I`m on record saying I love Inglis - I think he`s going to be a really good cricketer for Australia for a long time in whatever format they pick him in first, whether it`s T20s, one-dayers or Test cricket. Speaking to Brad Haddin and even `Painey`&nbsp;they really rate his keeping, they talk really highly of it. He could definitely be a long term, not just an international player, (but also) a Test player."</p>


Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting feels that the Tim Paine saga will be talked about wherever the Australian team will go during The Ashes. He added that it might end up distracting Paine and the Australian team in their quest to retain the Ashes at home.

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting feels that the Tim Paine saga will be talked about wherever the Australian team will go during The Ashes. He added that it might end up distracting Paine and the Australian team in their quest to retain the Ashes at home. Paine had suddenly stepped down from being the Test captain on Friday after an off-field scandal involving text messages with a former Cricket Tasmania female staffer came into limelight. "As much as we would all love to see it go away and there comes a point where it`s never talked about, it`s inevitable that it`s going to be there. If he plays in Brisbane (for the first Test), the rest of the group and everyone needs to move on and do the best they can to forget about it and knuckle down," Ponting was quoted as saying by cricket.com.au on Wednesday. "I think inevitably it will (be a distraction). Yes, he`s made a huge call for himself, for Australian cricket and for the betterment of the Australian cricket team. But it`s not going to go away. We`re only a few weeks out from the first Test - it will bubble along," added Ponting. ALSO READ | Pat Cummins interviewed by CA for Test captaincy, Steve Smith likely to be pacer's deputy: Reports He also thinks that Paine will be asked about the scandal wherever he goes in future. "Unfortunately for Tim he`s going to get asked about it everywhere he goes. Whenever you make mistakes and you`ve got to front up in front of the cricket-loving public, you have some doubts in the back of your mind for a period of time." The 46-year-old believes that Paine making an on-field comeback after a neck surgery will provide him solace. In a match for Tasmania`s second XI, Paine took six catches but made just one run with the bat. "When you`re out in the middle, that`s the only place you can get away from it. The first thing he did Saturday morning was put his club gear on, head out and try to play club cricket in Hobart, which is where he will find the most serenity. When he`s out in the middle he`s got something else to focus on and think about, which is cricket. It will blow over and hopefully it passes in enough time to have some really good clear headspace going into Brisbane." Ponting signed off by saying that wicketkeeper-batter Alex Carey could be a good pick if Paine doesn`t feature in the first Ashes Test at Brisbane. For future, his pick is Josh Inglis. "If he (Paine) plays this series and he finishes at the end of the series, they might look at a younger guy. If he`s not picked for Brisbane, they might think about someone who`s a bit more experienced, being an Ashes series. If Paine doesn`t play in Brisbane the obvious one is Alex Carey. If Paine does play the Ashes series, they might look at someone like Inglis post this summer." "I`m on record saying I love Inglis - I think he`s going to be a really good cricketer for Australia for a long time in whatever format they pick him in first, whether it`s T20s, one-dayers or Test cricket. Speaking to Brad Haddin and even `Painey` they really rate his keeping, they talk really highly of it. He could definitely be a long term, not just an international player, (but also) a Test player."

Inevitable that it's going to be there: Ricky Ponting feels Tim Paine saga will be discussed in Ashes 2021

<p>Bangladesh all-rounder Mahmudullah has retired from Test cricket, confirmed Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) on Wednesday. As a result, the all-rounder`s 12-year career in the longest format has come to an end."I had always thought of going on a high and I believe this is the right time to end my Test career. I want to extend my gratitude to the BCB president for supporting me when I returned to the Test team," Mahmudullah stated in a release issued by Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), as reported by ESPNcricinfo.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-v-nz-1st-test-going-to-be-different-challenge-to-what-we-get-back-home-says-kyle-jamieson-431539"><strong>IND v NZ, 1st Test: Going to be different challenge to what we get back home, says Kyle Jamieson</strong></a></p>

<p>"I thank my teammates and the support staff for always encouraging me and believing in my ability. It has been an absolute honour and privilege to play Test cricket for Bangladesh and I will cherish the many memories," he added.Mahmudullah however confirmed that he will continue to play white-ball cricket for his country. "Although I am retiring from Tests, I will still be playing ODIs and T20 internationals and really looking forward to continue giving my best for my country in white-ball cricket," said Mahmudullah. The 35-year-old played 50 Tests for Bangladesh, managing to score 2,914 runs at an average of 33.49. He also managed to scalp 43 wickets in his career with his best figures being 5/51.&nbsp;</p>


Bangladesh all-rounder Mahmudullah has retired from Test cricket, confirmed Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) on Wednesday. As a result, the all-rounder`s 12-year career in the longest format has come to an end.

Bangladesh all-rounder Mahmudullah has retired from Test cricket, confirmed Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) on Wednesday. As a result, the all-rounder`s 12-year career in the longest format has come to an end."I had always thought of going on a high and I believe this is the right time to end my Test career. I want to extend my gratitude to the BCB president for supporting me when I returned to the Test team," Mahmudullah stated in a release issued by Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), as reported by ESPNcricinfo. ALSO READ | IND v NZ, 1st Test: Going to be different challenge to what we get back home, says Kyle Jamieson "I thank my teammates and the support staff for always encouraging me and believing in my ability. It has been an absolute honour and privilege to play Test cricket for Bangladesh and I will cherish the many memories," he added.Mahmudullah however confirmed that he will continue to play white-ball cricket for his country. "Although I am retiring from Tests, I will still be playing ODIs and T20 internationals and really looking forward to continue giving my best for my country in white-ball cricket," said Mahmudullah. The 35-year-old played 50 Tests for Bangladesh, managing to score 2,914 runs at an average of 33.49. He also managed to scalp 43 wickets in his career with his best figures being 5/51.

Mahmudullah announces retirement from longest format ahead of Bangladesh's home series vs Pakistan

<p>Ahead of India's first Test versus New Zealand, at Green Park Stadium, Kanpur, head coach Rahul Dravid bowled some off-spin at the nets. The video has gone viral in no time as it was shared of Team India's official Instagram handle.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dravid, who ended with 13,288&nbsp;Test runs and 10, 889 runs in ODIs, also accounted for five wickets in his entire international career, which spanned from 1996-2012. Hence, the former Indian captain rolled his arms in the nets and bowled to India's No. 3 Cheteshwar Pujara.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/there-will-be-great-understanding-and-irfan-pathan-confident-of-rahul-dravid-virat-kohli-partnership-431639">'There will be great understanding and...' - Irfan Pathan confident of Rahul Dravid-Virat Kohli partnership</a></strong></p>

<p>The video was shared on Indian cricket's official Instagram page with the caption, "That moment when #TeamIndia Head Coach Rahul Dravid rolled his arm over in the nets."&nbsp;&nbsp;The priceless clip has soon become the talk of the town and has already garnered over 220k likes on the photo and video sharing platform. <strong>Here's the video:</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/tv/CWp9ip8ju4N/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
<div style="padding:16px;">
<div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;">
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 19% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/tv/CWp9ip8ju4N/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"><svg height="50px" version="1.1" viewbox="0 0 60 60" width="50px" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd" stroke="none" stroke-width="1"><g fill="#000000" transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></a></div>

<div style="padding-top: 8px;">
<div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/tv/CWp9ip8ju4N/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank">View this post on Instagram</a></div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 12.5% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;">
<div>
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: 8px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: auto;">
<div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/tv/CWp9ip8ju4N/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Team India (@indiancricketteam)</a></p>
</div>
</blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/there-wont-be-any-unfair-treatment-harbhajan-points-out-changes-rahul-dravid-will-bring-in-team-india-431619"><strong>There won't be any unfair treatment: Harbhajan points out changes Rahul Dravid will bring in Team India</strong></a></p>

<p>Ahead of the two-match Test series opener, Pujara opened up on having someone of the stature of Dravid as India's coach. "It will help most of the players, especially young players who have worked with Rahul bhai during U-19 and India A days. Even experienced players like us, I have played with Rahul bhai.I have worked with him during the A series, so all of us are looking forward to his guidance. The amount of experience he has as a player and coach of the team, helps," Pujara said during a press conference.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This will be India's first Test series under new coach Dravid. After whitewashing the Kiwis in the three T20Is, the Ajinkya Rahane-led hosts will look to maintain their dominance over the Black Caps and take an unassailable 1-0 lead in the series opener, at Green Park, Kanpur. The first Test begins from November 25 whereas the second and final Test will commence on December 3 in Mumbai.</p>


Ahead of India's first Test versus New Zealand, at Green Park Stadium, Kanpur, head coach Rahul Dravid bowled some off-spin at the nets. The video has gone viral in no time as it was shared of Team India's official Instagram handle.

Ahead of India's first Test versus New Zealand, at Green Park Stadium, Kanpur, head coach Rahul Dravid bowled some off-spin at the nets. The video has gone viral in no time as it was shared of Team India's official Instagram handle. Dravid, who ended with 13,288 Test runs and 10, 889 runs in ODIs, also accounted for five wickets in his entire international career, which spanned from 1996-2012. Hence, the former Indian captain rolled his arms in the nets and bowled to India's No. 3 Cheteshwar Pujara. ALSO READ | 'There will be great understanding and...' - Irfan Pathan confident of Rahul Dravid-Virat Kohli partnership The video was shared on Indian cricket's official Instagram page with the caption, "That moment when #TeamIndia Head Coach Rahul Dravid rolled his arm over in the nets." The priceless clip has soon become the talk of the town and has already garnered over 220k likes on the photo and video sharing platform. Here's the video: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Team India (@indiancricketteam) × ALSO READ | There won't be any unfair treatment: Harbhajan points out changes Rahul Dravid will bring in Team India Ahead of the two-match Test series opener, Pujara opened up on having someone of the stature of Dravid as India's coach. "It will help most of the players, especially young players who have worked with Rahul bhai during U-19 and India A days. Even experienced players like us, I have played with Rahul bhai.I have worked with him during the A series, so all of us are looking forward to his guidance. The amount of experience he has as a player and coach of the team, helps," Pujara said during a press conference. This will be India's first Test series under new coach Dravid. After whitewashing the Kiwis in the three T20Is, the Ajinkya Rahane-led hosts will look to maintain their dominance over the Black Caps and take an unassailable 1-0 lead in the series opener, at Green Park, Kanpur. The first Test begins from November 25 whereas the second and final Test will commence on December 3 in Mumbai.

VIRAL: Team India coach Rahul Dravid resorts to off-spin in nets ahead of 1st Test vs NZ - WATCH

<p>In early 2020, the world was left shattered with the spread of the Covid-19 crisis. As a result, all major political gatherings, sporting events, etc. were cancelled or postponed with immediate effect. As there was panic worldwide due to the spread of the invisible enemy, sporting fans did their bit to try and spread some positivity and started a new trend, i.e. of engaging with their contemporaries or teammates via Instagram live sessions.</p>

<p>Among the various Instagram live sessions held during the Covid-19 lockdown worldwide, the memorable engagement between tennis greats Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer was a huge hit. The two have been fierce rivals on the tennis court but have often maintained healthy relations outside the court. While there are separate fan clubs of Nadal and Federer, who often get involved in banters or remain extremely possessive of their respective player, the scenario is very different in reality between Nadal and Federer. The two proved their healthy camaraderie and solid off-court relationship by engaging in a hilarious Instagram live session during the early Covid lockdown and dwelled on various aspects.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/china-makes-first-official-statement-on-tennis-star-peng-shuai-says-case-maliciously-hyped-up-431368"><strong>China makes first official statement on tennis star Peng Shuai, says case 'maliciously hyped up'</strong></a></p>

<p>Here's a compilation of the Instagram live session held between Nadal and Federer (where even Andy Murray joined in later):</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Nadal: *intensely trying to work instagram*<br />
<br />
Andy Murray: <a href="https://t.co/rIyA4hLUb4">pic.twitter.com/rIyA4hLUb4</a></p>
— Matthew Willis (@mattracquet) <a href="https://twitter.com/mattracquet/status/1252274020382277634?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 20, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Federer &amp; Murray making fun of Nadal while he struggles to find how to add Federer in IG Livestream<br />
<br />
This is the lockdown content we need <a href="https://t.co/yWbsZQtHJ0">pic.twitter.com/yWbsZQtHJ0</a></p>
— jani (@abhayjani4) <a href="https://twitter.com/abhayjani4/status/1252297185200427013?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 20, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">When rivals become friends... And then try to get together for an Instagram live.<br />
<br />
A priceless moment between Nadal &amp; Federer. <a href="https://t.co/ExQXYubBDO">pic.twitter.com/ExQXYubBDO</a></p>
— Ada Ada (@queeninghere) <a href="https://twitter.com/queeninghere/status/1252312630456393730?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 20, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-roger-federer-rafael-nadal-and-novak-djokovics-equations-make-fan-club-fights-seem-meaningless-425070"><strong>WATCH: Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic's equations make fan-club fights seem meaningless</strong></a></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Nadal hoping he can join the fathers group soon.... 👀👀 <a href="https://t.co/xDaU20QasC">pic.twitter.com/xDaU20QasC</a></p>
— José Morgado (@josemorgado) <a href="https://twitter.com/josemorgado/status/1252309587975376898?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 20, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>The Nadal-Federer Instagram live session was an instant hit. It not only provided much relief to the fans, who were deprived of sporting action due to Covid-19 crisis in early 2020, but also shunned some negativity which was prevalant worldwide due to the pandemic.</p>

<p>Talking about the tennis events in 2021, all major tournaments have ended in the calendar year. Hence, the duo Nadal and Federer have shifted their focus to the upcoming calendar year. The 2022 season will commence with the Australian Open. With Nadal, Federer and world number one Novak Djokovic tied on 20 grand slam titles each, it will be interesting to see who among the famed trio will be the first to get to the elusive 21st title.&nbsp;</p>


In early 2020, the world was left shattered with the spread of the Covid-19 crisis. As a result, all major political gatherings, sporting events, etc. were cancelled or postponed with immediate effect.

In early 2020, the world was left shattered with the spread of the Covid-19 crisis. As a result, all major political gatherings, sporting events, etc. were cancelled or postponed with immediate effect. As there was panic worldwide due to the spread of the invisible enemy, sporting fans did their bit to try and spread some positivity and started a new trend, i.e. of engaging with their contemporaries or teammates via Instagram live sessions. Among the various Instagram live sessions held during the Covid-19 lockdown worldwide, the memorable engagement between tennis greats Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer was a huge hit. The two have been fierce rivals on the tennis court but have often maintained healthy relations outside the court. While there are separate fan clubs of Nadal and Federer, who often get involved in banters or remain extremely possessive of their respective player, the scenario is very different in reality between Nadal and Federer. The two proved their healthy camaraderie and solid off-court relationship by engaging in a hilarious Instagram live session during the early Covid lockdown and dwelled on various aspects. ALSO READ | China makes first official statement on tennis star Peng Shuai, says case 'maliciously hyped up' Here's a compilation of the Instagram live session held between Nadal and Federer (where even Andy Murray joined in later): Nadal: *intensely trying to work instagram* Andy Murray: pic.twitter.com/rIyA4hLUb4 — Matthew Willis (@mattracquet) April 20, 2020 × Federer & Murray making fun of Nadal while he struggles to find how to add Federer in IG Livestream This is the lockdown content we need pic.twitter.com/yWbsZQtHJ0 — jani (@abhayjani4) April 20, 2020 × When rivals become friends... And then try to get together for an Instagram live. A priceless moment between Nadal & Federer. pic.twitter.com/ExQXYubBDO — Ada Ada (@queeninghere) April 20, 2020 × ALSO READ | WATCH: Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic's equations make fan-club fights seem meaningless Nadal hoping he can join the fathers group soon.... 👀👀 pic.twitter.com/xDaU20QasC — José Morgado (@josemorgado) April 20, 2020 × The Nadal-Federer Instagram live session was an instant hit. It not only provided much relief to the fans, who were deprived of sporting action due to Covid-19 crisis in early 2020, but also shunned some negativity which was prevalant worldwide due to the pandemic. Talking about the tennis events in 2021, all major tournaments have ended in the calendar year. Hence, the duo Nadal and Federer have shifted their focus to the upcoming calendar year. The 2022 season will commence with the Australian Open. With Nadal, Federer and world number one Novak Djokovic tied on 20 grand slam titles each, it will be interesting to see who among the famed trio will be the first to get to the elusive 21st title.

When Rafael Nadal-Roger Federer's Instagram live left tennis lovers in awe during Covid lockdown - WATCH

<p>Rohit Sharma-Rahul Dravid's pairing started off with a bang as India whitewashed New Zealand in the three T20Is. While the two-match Test series between both sides will see Ajinkya Rahane lead in the series opener, regular captain Virat Kohli will join forces with newly-appointed head coach Dravid and hope to form a formidable captain-coach pair in Tests and ODIs.</p>

<p>Ahead of the first Test between India and New Zealand, at Green Park, Kanpur, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan stated that he feels confident of the Dravid-Kohli partnership. Despite their contrasting personalities, Pathan feels there will be great understanding and communication between Dravid and Kohli, who is now India's captain in Test and ODI format.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/there-wont-be-any-unfair-treatment-harbhajan-points-out-changes-rahul-dravid-will-bring-in-team-india-431619"><strong>There won't be any unfair treatment: Harbhajan points out changes Rahul Dravid will bring in Team India</strong></a></p>

<p>Irfan said on Star Sports, "This will be a new partnership between Rahul Dravid as well as Virat Kohli, the captain. Especially in the longer format, I don't see any problem because Rahul Dravid is a kind of guy who likes to come into the system, he doesn't change the system much. Now obviously, he's a very technical - tactical guy but he will not disrupt, he never used to disrupt even when he was captain, he always used to help boost the confidence of the player.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“One thing is for sure, there will be a great understanding and communication in this partnership, along with this youth players will be given as much importance as a senior player gets in the team. I'm not saying that this did not happen before but I have played under Rahul Dravid and this was very noticeable, if there was any young player in the team it was not hard to help them get into the team and it was solely due to Rahul Dravid’s mentality,” he added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-1st-test-with-shreyas-iyer-set-to-debut-predicting-team-indias-xi-for-series-opener-in-kanpur-431578"><strong>IND vs NZ, 1st Test: With Shreyas Iyer set to debut, predicting Team India's XI for series opener in Kanpur</strong></a></p>

<p>Before Dravid came into the picture, Kohli formed a strong partnership with Ravi Shastri, Dravid's predecessor. Under Shastri-Kohli, India gained new heights across formats and played the semi-finals of the 2019 ODI World Cup and final of the inaugural WTC. However, they couldn't win an ICC title. Hence, Dravid will be eager to take India to an ICC trophy along with Kohli in the longer formats and also achieve similar success with T20I captain Rohit.&nbsp;</p>


Rohit Sharma-Rahul Dravid's pairing started off with a bang as India whitewashed New Zealand in the three T20Is. While the two-match Test series between both sides will see Ajinkya Rahane lead in the series opener, regular captain Virat Kohli will join forces with newly-appointed head coach Dravid and hope to form a formidable captain-coach pair in Tests and ODIs.

Rohit Sharma-Rahul Dravid's pairing started off with a bang as India whitewashed New Zealand in the three T20Is. While the two-match Test series between both sides will see Ajinkya Rahane lead in the series opener, regular captain Virat Kohli will join forces with newly-appointed head coach Dravid and hope to form a formidable captain-coach pair in Tests and ODIs. Ahead of the first Test between India and New Zealand, at Green Park, Kanpur, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan stated that he feels confident of the Dravid-Kohli partnership. Despite their contrasting personalities, Pathan feels there will be great understanding and communication between Dravid and Kohli, who is now India's captain in Test and ODI format. ALSO READ | There won't be any unfair treatment: Harbhajan points out changes Rahul Dravid will bring in Team India Irfan said on Star Sports, "This will be a new partnership between Rahul Dravid as well as Virat Kohli, the captain. Especially in the longer format, I don't see any problem because Rahul Dravid is a kind of guy who likes to come into the system, he doesn't change the system much. Now obviously, he's a very technical - tactical guy but he will not disrupt, he never used to disrupt even when he was captain, he always used to help boost the confidence of the player. “One thing is for sure, there will be a great understanding and communication in this partnership, along with this youth players will be given as much importance as a senior player gets in the team. I'm not saying that this did not happen before but I have played under Rahul Dravid and this was very noticeable, if there was any young player in the team it was not hard to help them get into the team and it was solely due to Rahul Dravid’s mentality,” he added. ALSO READ | IND vs NZ, 1st Test: With Shreyas Iyer set to debut, predicting Team India's XI for series opener in Kanpur Before Dravid came into the picture, Kohli formed a strong partnership with Ravi Shastri, Dravid's predecessor. Under Shastri-Kohli, India gained new heights across formats and played the semi-finals of the 2019 ODI World Cup and final of the inaugural WTC. However, they couldn't win an ICC title. Hence, Dravid will be eager to take India to an ICC trophy along with Kohli in the longer formats and also achieve similar success with T20I captain Rohit.

'There will be great understanding and...' - Irfan Pathan confident of Rahul Dravid-Virat Kohli partnership

<p>A Court in Versailles on Wednesday found France and Real Madrid forward Karim Benzema guilty of complicity in the attempted blackmail of former international team mate Mathieu Valbuena over a sex tape and sentenced him to a one-year suspended jail term. He was also fined 75,000 euros ($84,170).</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/real-madrids-karim-benzema-stands-trial-over-sex-tape-affair-422395"><strong>Real Madrid's Karim Benzema stands trial over sex tape affair</strong></a></p>

<p>Benzema, who had denied any wrongdoing, was not in court. He is due to play for the Spanish club against Moldovan side Sheriff Tiraspol later in the day. Prosecutors had argued that Benzema had encouraged Valbuena to pay a suspected group of blackmailers in order to keep the sexually explicit tape out of the public eye.<br />
($1 = 0.8910 euros)</p>


A Court in Versailles on Wednesday found France and Real Madrid forward Karim Benzema guilty of complicity in the attempted blackmail of former international team mate Mathieu Valbuena over a sex tape and sentenced him to a one-year suspended jail term.

A Court in Versailles on Wednesday found France and Real Madrid forward Karim Benzema guilty of complicity in the attempted blackmail of former international team mate Mathieu Valbuena over a sex tape and sentenced him to a one-year suspended jail term. He was also fined 75,000 euros ($84,170). ALSO READ | Real Madrid's Karim Benzema stands trial over sex tape affair Benzema, who had denied any wrongdoing, was not in court. He is due to play for the Spanish club against Moldovan side Sheriff Tiraspol later in the day. Prosecutors had argued that Benzema had encouraged Valbuena to pay a suspected group of blackmailers in order to keep the sexually explicit tape out of the public eye. ($1 = 0.8910 euros)

Sex tape case: France and Real Madrid star Karim Benzema gets one-year suspended jail term

<p>Rahul Dravid has taken over as Team India's head coach from Ravi Shastri after the former Indian all-rounder's tenure came to an end post the T20 World Cup. Under Shastri, India enjoyed considerable success across formats but couldn't end their ICC-trophy drought. Hence, Dravid is expected to turn things around and lead India to an ICC title, with their last major trophy coming in 2013.</p>

<p>Dravid has started with a bang by guiding the Indian team to a 3-0 whitewash over New Zealand in three T20Is. Ahead of the two-match Test series between India and the Black Caps, at home, veteran off-spinner Harbhajan Singh has pointed out what changes one will be able to see in the Dravid-era.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-1st-test-live-streaming-when-and-where-to-watch-india-vs-new-zealand-match-live-online-431598">IND vs NZ, 1st Test live streaming: When and where to watch India vs New Zealand match live online?</a></strong></p>

<p>Speaking to Star Sports, Harbhajan said, "See, the combination will obviously take some time for everyone to adjust to with new things, new processes that Rahul will bring onto the table and I think the triangle of these three is joined to one another, Rahul with Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. I think they should be working together and take Indian cricket to new heights."</p>

<p>"With Rahul coming in, I can tell you that players will be given a lot of assurance. Players will be given good chances, there won't be any unfair treatment and you’ll be left out of the team, they will be given proper opportunities and that’s what Rahul Dravid will bring onto the table. He will bring a lot of stability to the team," added Harbhajan.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-1st-test-with-shreyas-iyer-set-to-debut-predicting-team-indias-xi-for-series-opener-in-kanpur-431578">IND vs NZ, 1st Test: With Shreyas Iyer set to debut, predicting Team India's XI for series opener in Kanpur</a></strong></p>

<p>Dravid-coached India will take on Kane Williamson-led New Zealand in the two-match Test series opener on Thursday (November 25) in Kanpur. While Ajinkya Rahane-led India will be without many of their key players -- regular captain Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, etc. -- they will still start as favourites and look to avenge their WTC final loss versus the Kiwis.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For the unversed, Dravid has been appointed as India's coach till 2023 ODI World Cup. Hence, he has quite a big task on his shoulders to end India's ICC-title drought with mega events lined-up in each year.</p>


Rahul Dravid has taken over as Team India's head coach from Ravi Shastri after the former Indian all-rounder's tenure came to an end post the T20 World Cup. Under Shastri, India enjoyed considerable success across formats but couldn't end their ICC-trophy drought.

Rahul Dravid has taken over as Team India's head coach from Ravi Shastri after the former Indian all-rounder's tenure came to an end post the T20 World Cup. Under Shastri, India enjoyed considerable success across formats but couldn't end their ICC-trophy drought. Hence, Dravid is expected to turn things around and lead India to an ICC title, with their last major trophy coming in 2013. Dravid has started with a bang by guiding the Indian team to a 3-0 whitewash over New Zealand in three T20Is. Ahead of the two-match Test series between India and the Black Caps, at home, veteran off-spinner Harbhajan Singh has pointed out what changes one will be able to see in the Dravid-era. ALSO READ | IND vs NZ, 1st Test live streaming: When and where to watch India vs New Zealand match live online? Speaking to Star Sports, Harbhajan said, "See, the combination will obviously take some time for everyone to adjust to with new things, new processes that Rahul will bring onto the table and I think the triangle of these three is joined to one another, Rahul with Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. I think they should be working together and take Indian cricket to new heights." "With Rahul coming in, I can tell you that players will be given a lot of assurance. Players will be given good chances, there won't be any unfair treatment and you’ll be left out of the team, they will be given proper opportunities and that’s what Rahul Dravid will bring onto the table. He will bring a lot of stability to the team," added Harbhajan. ALSO READ | IND vs NZ, 1st Test: With Shreyas Iyer set to debut, predicting Team India's XI for series opener in Kanpur Dravid-coached India will take on Kane Williamson-led New Zealand in the two-match Test series opener on Thursday (November 25) in Kanpur. While Ajinkya Rahane-led India will be without many of their key players -- regular captain Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, etc. -- they will still start as favourites and look to avenge their WTC final loss versus the Kiwis. For the unversed, Dravid has been appointed as India's coach till 2023 ODI World Cup. Hence, he has quite a big task on his shoulders to end India's ICC-title drought with mega events lined-up in each year.

There won't be any unfair treatment: Harbhajan points out changes Rahul Dravid will bring in Team India

<p>After the three T20Is, the action will now move to the two-match Test series between India and New Zealand. The series opener will commence on Thursday (November 25) with Ajinkya Rahane-led India to lock horns with the Kane Williamson-led Black Caps at the Green Park Stadium in Kanpur.</p>

<p>The Test series will be India's first under new head coach Rahul Dravid. While the former Indian captain had a memorable start to his stint as the head coach with a 3-0 whitewash of the Kiwis in the T20Is, he will know that it won't be a cakewalk for the home side to beat the inaugural WTC winners. While India are missing some of their regulars in the squad such as captain Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, etc., they will start as favourites due to their dominant home record but NZ have enough firepower to challenge them.</p>

<p>NZ will depend on Williamson, Ross Taylor, Henry Nicholls and have enough variety in their bowling line-up with Tim Southee, Trent Boult, Neil Wagner along with able all-rounders such as Mitchell Santner, Kyle Jamieson, etc. From India's perspective, the series opener will give a chance to the likes of Mayank Agarwal, Shubman Gill, Mohammed Siraj, Axar Patel, Shreyas Iyer, etc. to continue their good work and make further statement in home conditions.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-1st-test-prediction-who-will-win-series-opener-between-india-and-new-zealand-in-kanpur-431566"><strong>IND vs NZ, 1st Test prediction: Who will win series opener between India and New Zealand in Kanpur?</strong></a></p>

<p><strong>Let's take a look at the means on how to live stream or view the match:</strong></p>

<p><strong>Where is India vs New Zealand 1st Test match taking place?</strong></p>

<p>The India vs New Zealand 1st Test<strong>&nbsp;</strong>match will take place at the Green Park Stadium, Kanpur.</p>

<p><strong>What time does India vs New Zealand 1st Test match begin?</strong></p>

<p>The India vs New Zealand 1st Test match begins at 9:30 PM IST on Thursday (November 25).</p>

<p><strong>How to watch live coverage of India vs New Zealand 1st Test on TV?</strong></p>

<p>The India vs New Zealand 1st Test match will be aired live on Star Sports channels (Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 HD, Star Sports 1 Hindi, Star Sports 1 Hindi HD, Star Sports 1 Tamil, Star Sports 1 Telugu, and Star Sports 1 Kannada).</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-1st-test-with-shreyas-iyer-set-to-debut-predicting-team-indias-xi-for-series-opener-in-kanpur-431578"><strong>IND vs NZ, 1st Test: With Shreyas Iyer set to debut, predicting Team India's XI for series opener in Kanpur</strong></a></p>

<p><strong>How to watch live coverage of India vs New Zealand 1st Test on the live streaming?</strong></p>

<p>The India vs New Zealand 1st Test match will be available to stream live on the Hotstar.</p>


After the three T20Is, the action will now move to the two-match Test series between India and New Zealand. The series opener will commence on Thursday (November 25) with Ajinkya Rahane-led India to lock horns with the Kane Williamson-led Black Caps at the Green Park Stadium in Kanpur.

After the three T20Is, the action will now move to the two-match Test series between India and New Zealand. The series opener will commence on Thursday (November 25) with Ajinkya Rahane-led India to lock horns with the Kane Williamson-led Black Caps at the Green Park Stadium in Kanpur. The Test series will be India's first under new head coach Rahul Dravid. While the former Indian captain had a memorable start to his stint as the head coach with a 3-0 whitewash of the Kiwis in the T20Is, he will know that it won't be a cakewalk for the home side to beat the inaugural WTC winners. While India are missing some of their regulars in the squad such as captain Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, etc., they will start as favourites due to their dominant home record but NZ have enough firepower to challenge them. NZ will depend on Williamson, Ross Taylor, Henry Nicholls and have enough variety in their bowling line-up with Tim Southee, Trent Boult, Neil Wagner along with able all-rounders such as Mitchell Santner, Kyle Jamieson, etc. From India's perspective, the series opener will give a chance to the likes of Mayank Agarwal, Shubman Gill, Mohammed Siraj, Axar Patel, Shreyas Iyer, etc. to continue their good work and make further statement in home conditions. ALSO READ | IND vs NZ, 1st Test prediction: Who will win series opener between India and New Zealand in Kanpur? Let's take a look at the means on how to live stream or view the match: Where is India vs New Zealand 1st Test match taking place? The India vs New Zealand 1st Test match will take place at the Green Park Stadium, Kanpur. What time does India vs New Zealand 1st Test match begin? The India vs New Zealand 1st Test match begins at 9:30 PM IST on Thursday (November 25). How to watch live coverage of India vs New Zealand 1st Test on TV? The India vs New Zealand 1st Test match will be aired live on Star Sports channels (Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 HD, Star Sports 1 Hindi, Star Sports 1 Hindi HD, Star Sports 1 Tamil, Star Sports 1 Telugu, and Star Sports 1 Kannada). ALSO READ | IND vs NZ, 1st Test: With Shreyas Iyer set to debut, predicting Team India's XI for series opener in Kanpur How to watch live coverage of India vs New Zealand 1st Test on the live streaming? The India vs New Zealand 1st Test match will be available to stream live on the Hotstar.

IND vs NZ, 1st Test live streaming: When and where to watch India vs New Zealand match live online?

<p>Team India will face Kane Williamson-led New Zealand in the series opener of the two-match Test series at Green Park Stadium, Kanpur on Thursday (November 25). The Test series will be India's first-ever under new head coach Rahul Dravid and the national side will be eager to continue their dominant run in the purest format under the former Indian captain.</p>

<p>With the series being a part of the second cycle of the WTC, both sides have plenty to play for. For India, the hosts are without some of their big guns such as regular captain Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah and Rishabh Pant whereas the likes of Mayank Agarwal, Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer, Mohammed Siraj, Axar Patel, etc. will like to make the most of their opportunities with the key players rested.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Among the experienced lot, the onus will be on stand-in captain Ajinkya Rahane, vice-captain Cheteshwar Pujara, Ravindra Jadeja and R Ashwin. Talking about the Kiwis, they are a formidable unit with Williamson, Ross Taylor, Henry Nicholls, Trent Boult, Tim Southee, Neil Wagner, Mitchell Santner having ample experience. Nonetheless, they will have to adjust to the contrasting conditions and the SG ball on offer in Indian conditions.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-1st-test-prediction-who-will-win-series-opener-between-india-and-new-zealand-in-kanpur-431566"><strong>IND vs NZ, 1st Test prediction: Who will win series opener between India and New Zealand in Kanpur?</strong></a></p>

<p>Ahead of the series opener, Rahane told at a presser on Wednesday, "Shreyas Iyer is going to make his debut." Hence, <strong>here's predicting India's line-up for the first Test in Kanpur:</strong></p>

<p>The top-order will comprise Mayank and Gill, with KL Rahul ruled out due to injury. Pujara, Shreyas Iyer and Rahane will form the middle order with Ashwin, Jadeja, Axar and Wriddhiman Saha following suit. Mohammed Siraj and Umesh Yadav are expected to form the pace unit.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-has-no-role-in-it-treasurer-arun-dhumal-reacts-as-board-faces-backlash-over-diet-plan-with-halal-meat-431468"><strong>BCCI has no role in it: Treasurer Arun Dhumal reacts as board faces backlash over diet plan with halal meat</strong></a></p>

<p>While Ishant Sharma can get the nod either ahead of Umesh or Axar, Rahul Dravid-led thinktank is very likely to go ahead with three spinners at home (sticking to their strengths). In addition, Axar's form is exemplary whereas Umesh has a good record at home and, hence, both are unlikely to be overlooked.</p>

<p><strong>Predicting India's XI for first Test vs NZ: </strong>Mayank Agarwal, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara (vc), Shreyas Iyer, Ajinkya Rahane (c), Wriddhiman Saha (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, R Ashwin, Axar Patel, Umesh Yadav, Mohammed Siraj</p>


Team India will face Kane Williamson-led New Zealand in the series opener of the two-match Test series at Green Park Stadium, Kanpur on Thursday (November 25). The Test series will be India's first-ever under new head coach Rahul Dravid and the national side will be eager to continue their dominant run in the purest format under the former Indian captain.

Team India will face Kane Williamson-led New Zealand in the series opener of the two-match Test series at Green Park Stadium, Kanpur on Thursday (November 25). The Test series will be India's first-ever under new head coach Rahul Dravid and the national side will be eager to continue their dominant run in the purest format under the former Indian captain. With the series being a part of the second cycle of the WTC, both sides have plenty to play for. For India, the hosts are without some of their big guns such as regular captain Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah and Rishabh Pant whereas the likes of Mayank Agarwal, Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer, Mohammed Siraj, Axar Patel, etc. will like to make the most of their opportunities with the key players rested. Among the experienced lot, the onus will be on stand-in captain Ajinkya Rahane, vice-captain Cheteshwar Pujara, Ravindra Jadeja and R Ashwin. Talking about the Kiwis, they are a formidable unit with Williamson, Ross Taylor, Henry Nicholls, Trent Boult, Tim Southee, Neil Wagner, Mitchell Santner having ample experience. Nonetheless, they will have to adjust to the contrasting conditions and the SG ball on offer in Indian conditions. ALSO READ | IND vs NZ, 1st Test prediction: Who will win series opener between India and New Zealand in Kanpur? Ahead of the series opener, Rahane told at a presser on Wednesday, "Shreyas Iyer is going to make his debut." Hence, here's predicting India's line-up for the first Test in Kanpur: The top-order will comprise Mayank and Gill, with KL Rahul ruled out due to injury. Pujara, Shreyas Iyer and Rahane will form the middle order with Ashwin, Jadeja, Axar and Wriddhiman Saha following suit. Mohammed Siraj and Umesh Yadav are expected to form the pace unit. ALSO READ | BCCI has no role in it: Treasurer Arun Dhumal reacts as board faces backlash over diet plan with halal meat While Ishant Sharma can get the nod either ahead of Umesh or Axar, Rahul Dravid-led thinktank is very likely to go ahead with three spinners at home (sticking to their strengths). In addition, Axar's form is exemplary whereas Umesh has a good record at home and, hence, both are unlikely to be overlooked. Predicting India's XI for first Test vs NZ: Mayank Agarwal, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara (vc), Shreyas Iyer, Ajinkya Rahane (c), Wriddhiman Saha (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, R Ashwin, Axar Patel, Umesh Yadav, Mohammed Siraj

IND vs NZ, 1st Test: With Shreyas Iyer set to debut, predicting Team India's XI for series opener in Kanpur

<p>Cristiano Ronaldo and Jadon Sancho`s efforts ended Manchester United`s woeful recent run as the Red Devils defeated Villarreal in the Champions League group stage game. Interim manager Michael Carrick`s side defeated Villarreal 2-0 on Wednesday and now the club has qualified for the last 16 stage, as group winners for the knockout phases. Carrick made four changes from Saturday`s 4-1 defeat at Watford, leaving Bruno Fernandes on the bench but his side still struggled to find a goal in the first half.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-liverpool-cannot-be-complacent-against-porto-says-manager-jurgen-klopp-431453"><strong>Champions League: Liverpool cannot be complacent against Porto, says manager Jurgen Klopp</strong></a></p>

<p>However, the Portuguese captain Ronaldo came with a breakthrough and scored his sixth Champions League goal this season and his 10th overall. Later on, Sancho put the final nail in the coffin after hitting the back of the nets in the 90th minute of the match. With this loss, Villarreal will have to fight it out with Atalanta to secure a position in the last 16 of the Champions League. Manchester United will now be facing Chelsea for their next encounter on Sunday at the Stamford Bridge stadium in London.</p>


Cristiano Ronaldo and Jadon Sancho`s efforts ended Manchester United`s woeful recent run as the Red Devils defeated Villarreal in the Champions League group stage game.

Cristiano Ronaldo and Jadon Sancho`s efforts ended Manchester United`s woeful recent run as the Red Devils defeated Villarreal in the Champions League group stage game. Interim manager Michael Carrick`s side defeated Villarreal 2-0 on Wednesday and now the club has qualified for the last 16 stage, as group winners for the knockout phases. Carrick made four changes from Saturday`s 4-1 defeat at Watford, leaving Bruno Fernandes on the bench but his side still struggled to find a goal in the first half. ALSO READ | Champions League: Liverpool cannot be complacent against Porto, says manager Jurgen Klopp However, the Portuguese captain Ronaldo came with a breakthrough and scored his sixth Champions League goal this season and his 10th overall. Later on, Sancho put the final nail in the coffin after hitting the back of the nets in the 90th minute of the match. With this loss, Villarreal will have to fight it out with Atalanta to secure a position in the last 16 of the Champions League. Manchester United will now be facing Chelsea for their next encounter on Sunday at the Stamford Bridge stadium in London.

Champions League: Cristiano Ronaldo, Jadon Sancho star in Man United's 2-0 win over Villarreal

<p>After the three-match T20I series, the action between India and New Zealand will now move to the two-match Test series, starting from Thursday (November 25) at The Green Park Stadium, Kanpur. The series will be part of the second cycle of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) and, hence, both sides will look to walk away with vital points.</p>

<p>For India, they are without some of their regulars in the format. The regular skipper Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami and Rishabh Pant have been rested whereas KL Rahul was ruled out of the series, on Tuesday, due to a muscle strain on his left thigh. Thus, Ajinkya Rahane will once again take over the captaincy responsibilities with Cheteshwar Pujara as his deputy.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-v-nz-1st-test-going-to-be-different-challenge-to-what-we-get-back-home-says-kyle-jamieson-431539"><strong>IND v NZ, 1st Test: Going to be different challenge to what we get back home, says Kyle Jamieson</strong></a></p>

<p>Rahane will once again be leading a second-stringed Indian team, where the onus will be on Mayank Agarwal, Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer (who has been confirmed to make his debut), Wriddihman Saha, Mohammed Siraj, Ishant Sharma, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, R Ashwin etc. On the other hand, New Zealand will see the return of Kane Williamson, Tim Southee, Neil Wagner, Ross Taylor, Henry Nicholls&nbsp;in action whereas Trent Boult, Kyle Jamieson, Mitchell Santner, etc. will form a formidable line-up of the Kiwis.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kl-rahul-ruled-out-of-nz-tests-due-to-injury-suryakumar-yadav-named-replacement-431388"><strong>KL Rahul ruled out of NZ Tests due to injury, Suryakumar Yadav named replacement</strong></a></p>

<p>The challenge for the Kiwis will be to adjust to the contrasting conditions and SG ball on offer in India. If their spinners can match the Indian spin trio -- Jadeja, Axar and Ashwin -- the match will surely go down the wire. Nonetheless, as Rahul Dravid-coached hosts haven't lost a series at home since 2012, they will still commence as overwhelming favourites.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Match prediction for 1st Test:&nbsp;</strong>There hasn't been much update regarding the nature of the surface expected in Kanpur. Nonetheless, it is expected to aid the batters before the spinners come into play from Day 3 onwards. The pacers will have to do the hard yards as the game progresses to provide breakthroughs at regular intervals. While the Indian team is without some of their star performers, Kiwis will like to make the most of their opposition's inexperience and make early inroads. However, India will still be favourites and are expected to go 1-0 up. Nonetheless, it also won't be a cakewalk for the home side versus the inaugural WTC winners.</p>


After the three-match T20I series, the action between India and New Zealand will now move to the two-match Test series, starting from Thursday (November 25) at The Green Park Stadium, Kanpur.

After the three-match T20I series, the action between India and New Zealand will now move to the two-match Test series, starting from Thursday (November 25) at The Green Park Stadium, Kanpur. The series will be part of the second cycle of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) and, hence, both sides will look to walk away with vital points. For India, they are without some of their regulars in the format. The regular skipper Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami and Rishabh Pant have been rested whereas KL Rahul was ruled out of the series, on Tuesday, due to a muscle strain on his left thigh. Thus, Ajinkya Rahane will once again take over the captaincy responsibilities with Cheteshwar Pujara as his deputy. ALSO READ | IND v NZ, 1st Test: Going to be different challenge to what we get back home, says Kyle Jamieson Rahane will once again be leading a second-stringed Indian team, where the onus will be on Mayank Agarwal, Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer (who has been confirmed to make his debut), Wriddihman Saha, Mohammed Siraj, Ishant Sharma, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, R Ashwin etc. On the other hand, New Zealand will see the return of Kane Williamson, Tim Southee, Neil Wagner, Ross Taylor, Henry Nicholls in action whereas Trent Boult, Kyle Jamieson, Mitchell Santner, etc. will form a formidable line-up of the Kiwis. ALSO READ | KL Rahul ruled out of NZ Tests due to injury, Suryakumar Yadav named replacement The challenge for the Kiwis will be to adjust to the contrasting conditions and SG ball on offer in India. If their spinners can match the Indian spin trio -- Jadeja, Axar and Ashwin -- the match will surely go down the wire. Nonetheless, as Rahul Dravid-coached hosts haven't lost a series at home since 2012, they will still commence as overwhelming favourites. Match prediction for 1st Test: There hasn't been much update regarding the nature of the surface expected in Kanpur. Nonetheless, it is expected to aid the batters before the spinners come into play from Day 3 onwards. The pacers will have to do the hard yards as the game progresses to provide breakthroughs at regular intervals. While the Indian team is without some of their star performers, Kiwis will like to make the most of their opposition's inexperience and make early inroads. However, India will still be favourites and are expected to go 1-0 up. Nonetheless, it also won't be a cakewalk for the home side versus the inaugural WTC winners.

IND vs NZ, 1st Test prediction: Who will win series opener between India and New Zealand in Kanpur?

<p>Under MS Dhoni, Team India achieved wholesome success as the former Indian wicketkeeper-batsman remains the only international captain to lead his national side to all three major ICC titles during his captaincy tenure. When Dhoni stepped aside as the captain from all formats, in early 2017, Virat Kohli stepped up and took over the reins from his senior pro.</p>

<p>Dhoni, however, remained a vital cog of Kohli-led India's limited-overs side, having retired from Tests in late 2014, till he played his last match in the 2019 ODI World Cup and decided to hang up his boots the following year. Recently, the former Indian bowling coach Bharat Arun opened up on the smooth captaincy transition in Indian cricket between Dhoni and Kohli.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/if-youre-trying-to-do-something-for-the-team-it-will-never-go-unnoticed-says-rohit-sharma-post-nz-t20is-431248"><strong>If you're trying to do something for the team, it will never go unnoticed, says Rohit Sharma post NZ T20Is</strong></a></p>

<p>“Ravi told the importance of having a senior member like Dhoni in the team. It was about giving a lot of respect and he would definitely help him. Kohli understood that of course and it was a seamless transition. You could see the respect in the way Kohli would often let Dhoni handle little details and prowl on the boundary in ODIs. That kind of stuff can’t have happened without trust and respect. And Dhoni also saw he was given the space and responded so well,” Arun told Indian Express in an interview.</p>

<p>When Kohli took over as full-time captain, Dhoni continued to guide him from behind the stumps in terms of sharing small and valuable inputs, changing fielding positions and mentoring the bowlers. During this time, India enjoyed considerable success in white-ball formats but couldn't lift the 2019 ODI WC title, bowing out in the semi-finals.</p>

<p>Dhoni was also part of Kohli-led Indian squad for the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, in the UAE, serving as the team mentor.</p>

<p>Speaking of the former Indian team head coach Ravi Shastri, Arun lavished praise on the ex-cricketer's tenure and said, "Fearlessness and honesty. During his tenure, there was absolutely no agenda. The decisions might have been right or wrong, that is irrelevant, but they came from the right place, purely thinking about team values and what we stood for as a team. Honesty encompasses criticism, self-introspection. It was in telling the team that ‘accept that we messed up’. It helped us evolve the team."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-watches-on-as-finisher-shahrukh-khans-last-ball-six-powers-tamil-nadu-to-smat-2021-title-431232"><strong>MS Dhoni watches on as 'finisher' Shahrukh Khan's last-ball six powers Tamil Nadu to SMAT 2021 title</strong></a></p>

<p>After the T20 WC, the Shastri-led coaching staff, including Arun and fielding coach R Sridhar, stepped aside from their respective posts. Vikram Rathour continues to hold his post, i.e. of the batting coach, whereas Rahul Dravid has replaced Shastri as Team India's coach till 2023.</p>


Under MS Dhoni, Team India achieved wholesome success as the former Indian wicketkeeper-batsman remains the only international captain to lead his national side to all three major ICC titles during his captaincy tenure.

Under MS Dhoni, Team India achieved wholesome success as the former Indian wicketkeeper-batsman remains the only international captain to lead his national side to all three major ICC titles during his captaincy tenure. When Dhoni stepped aside as the captain from all formats, in early 2017, Virat Kohli stepped up and took over the reins from his senior pro. Dhoni, however, remained a vital cog of Kohli-led India's limited-overs side, having retired from Tests in late 2014, till he played his last match in the 2019 ODI World Cup and decided to hang up his boots the following year. Recently, the former Indian bowling coach Bharat Arun opened up on the smooth captaincy transition in Indian cricket between Dhoni and Kohli. ALSO READ | If you're trying to do something for the team, it will never go unnoticed, says Rohit Sharma post NZ T20Is “Ravi told the importance of having a senior member like Dhoni in the team. It was about giving a lot of respect and he would definitely help him. Kohli understood that of course and it was a seamless transition. You could see the respect in the way Kohli would often let Dhoni handle little details and prowl on the boundary in ODIs. That kind of stuff can’t have happened without trust and respect. And Dhoni also saw he was given the space and responded so well,” Arun told Indian Express in an interview. When Kohli took over as full-time captain, Dhoni continued to guide him from behind the stumps in terms of sharing small and valuable inputs, changing fielding positions and mentoring the bowlers. During this time, India enjoyed considerable success in white-ball formats but couldn't lift the 2019 ODI WC title, bowing out in the semi-finals. Dhoni was also part of Kohli-led Indian squad for the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, in the UAE, serving as the team mentor. Speaking of the former Indian team head coach Ravi Shastri, Arun lavished praise on the ex-cricketer's tenure and said, "Fearlessness and honesty. During his tenure, there was absolutely no agenda. The decisions might have been right or wrong, that is irrelevant, but they came from the right place, purely thinking about team values and what we stood for as a team. Honesty encompasses criticism, self-introspection. It was in telling the team that ‘accept that we messed up’. It helped us evolve the team." ALSO READ | MS Dhoni watches on as 'finisher' Shahrukh Khan's last-ball six powers Tamil Nadu to SMAT 2021 title After the T20 WC, the Shastri-led coaching staff, including Arun and fielding coach R Sridhar, stepped aside from their respective posts. Vikram Rathour continues to hold his post, i.e. of the batting coach, whereas Rahul Dravid has replaced Shastri as Team India's coach till 2023.

'Virat Kohli often let MS Dhoni handle...': Bharat Arun opines on smooth captaincy transition between duo

Author

Zee News Rajasthan

Editor

Aditya Sahay

Home

Live Tv

Latest

World

India

Business

Entertainment

Sports

Opinions

Videos

Photos

Gravitas

Lifestyle

Science

Tech

Rajasthan News in Hindi: In-depth coverage of Rajasthan Crime, Political News, Education, Rajasthan Weather Update and Latest Rajasthan News on Zee News Rajasthan.