<p>The India-England Tests proved to a high-voltage affair and the five-match series was set for a terrific finale, at Old Trafford, Manchester, when the tour got cancelled in the wake of Covid-19 crisis in the Indian camp. With the majority of India's support staff testing positive for Covid-19, India couldn't field an XI for the fifth and final Test and had to back out at the last moment.</p>

<p>Despite being 2-1 up in the series, Kohli &amp; Co. were heavily criticised for their decision to cancel the tour ahead of the final Test, with many saying that the players didn't want to jeopardise IPL 14's UAE leg. Since then, not many cricketers have opened up on what happened in Manchester and the circumstances which led to the visitors cancelling the tour.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Shardul Thakur has now finally broken his silence and told in an interview with Indian Express, "I heard someone whispering about it and the general feeling was what will happen next. As the match was on, everyone was focused on the game. It was the first time we were without our main support staff."</p>

<p>"They used to call us at the end of the day. I spoke to Bharat Arun Sir, he spoke about what kind of line and length I can bowl. If they had any points they used to tell us after the game," he further explained.</p>

<p>"We were worried about what will happen, who will be infected since Parmar had treated everyone. We didn’t know how things would go ahead because tracking this infection is next to impossible. The next four-five days were vulnerable for us because there was fear that it could happen to me or it could happen to anyone. Everyone was worried about their and their family’s health," the pacer added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/anything-can-happen-at-any-time-virat-kohli-opens-up-about-fifth-test-being-cancelled-412917"><strong>'Anything can happen at any time': Virat Kohli opens up about fifth Test being cancelled</strong></a></p>

<p>For the unversed, India's head coach Ravi Shastri, bowling coach Bharat Arun and fielding coach R Sridhar had contracted the virus, after which physios Nitin Patel and Yogesh Parmar also tested positive; prompting Team India to back out before the final Test despite them having a chance to win their first-ever Tests on English soil after 2007.</p>

<p>As of now, ICC is yet to decide on the fate of the final Test at Manchester. It might be played next year during India's white-ball tour of England, as a continuation of the 2021 series or a one-off Test. The final decision remains awaited.</p>


The India-England Tests proved to a high-voltage affair and the five-match series was set for a terrific finale, at Old Trafford, Manchester, when the tour got cancelled in the wake of Covid-19 crisis in the Indian camp.

The India-England Tests proved to a high-voltage affair and the five-match series was set for a terrific finale, at Old Trafford, Manchester, when the tour got cancelled in the wake of Covid-19 crisis in the Indian camp. With the majority of India's support staff testing positive for Covid-19, India couldn't field an XI for the fifth and final Test and had to back out at the last moment. Despite being 2-1 up in the series, Kohli & Co. were heavily criticised for their decision to cancel the tour ahead of the final Test, with many saying that the players didn't want to jeopardise IPL 14's UAE leg. Since then, not many cricketers have opened up on what happened in Manchester and the circumstances which led to the visitors cancelling the tour. Shardul Thakur has now finally broken his silence and told in an interview with Indian Express, "I heard someone whispering about it and the general feeling was what will happen next. As the match was on, everyone was focused on the game. It was the first time we were without our main support staff." "They used to call us at the end of the day. I spoke to Bharat Arun Sir, he spoke about what kind of line and length I can bowl. If they had any points they used to tell us after the game," he further explained. "We were worried about what will happen, who will be infected since Parmar had treated everyone. We didn’t know how things would go ahead because tracking this infection is next to impossible. The next four-five days were vulnerable for us because there was fear that it could happen to me or it could happen to anyone. Everyone was worried about their and their family’s health," the pacer added. ALSO READ | 'Anything can happen at any time': Virat Kohli opens up about fifth Test being cancelled For the unversed, India's head coach Ravi Shastri, bowling coach Bharat Arun and fielding coach R Sridhar had contracted the virus, after which physios Nitin Patel and Yogesh Parmar also tested positive; prompting Team India to back out before the final Test despite them having a chance to win their first-ever Tests on English soil after 2007. As of now, ICC is yet to decide on the fate of the final Test at Manchester. It might be played next year during India's white-ball tour of England, as a continuation of the 2021 series or a one-off Test. The final decision remains awaited.

Shardul Thakur reacts as Team India draw criticism for cancelled Manchester Test vs England

<p>Pakistan haven't had much success versus Team India in ICC events. To date, they are yet to beat India in the ODI and T20 World Cup. However, the Men in Green remain ahead of India, by 3-2, in the Champions Trophy face-offs. Thus, Babar Azam &amp; Co. will look to replicate their 2017 Champions Trophy final performance versus Virat Kohli's India when both the sides meet in the forthcoming T20 World Cup, in the UAE from October 19.</p>

<p>For the unversed, India and Pakistan are set to lock horns on October 24, at Dubai International Cricket Stadium, as both sides are in the same group (Pool 2) in the showpiece event. Ahead of the marquee clash, pacer Hasan Ali feels Pakistan can beat India and they will look at their 2017 CT final heroics as an inspiration.</p>

<p>"When we won the Champions Trophy (in 2017), it was a very good time for us and we will try to beat them again in the T20 World Cup. We will give our best. Playing against India is always a pressure game because of the expectations of fans from both countries," Hasan Ali said on Wednesday (September 14) as per a report in India Today.</p>

<p>"Even those people who don't normally watch cricket follow the India vs Pakistan matches, so the pressure on the players is high but we will give it our best," he added.</p>

<p>It is important to note that Hasan was one of the star-performers for Pakistan in the CT'17 final versus India (returning with 3 for 19). Thus, he will look to replicate the same this time around when India-Pakistan lock horns in the forthcoming World Cup.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India and Pakistan's group also comprise New Zealand, Afghanistan and two other teams who will join from the qualifiers.</p>


Pakistan haven't had much success versus Team India in ICC events. To date, they are yet to beat India in the ODI and T20 World Cup. However, the Men in Green remain ahead of India, by 3-2, in the Champions Trophy face-offs.

Pakistan haven't had much success versus Team India in ICC events. To date, they are yet to beat India in the ODI and T20 World Cup. However, the Men in Green remain ahead of India, by 3-2, in the Champions Trophy face-offs. Thus, Babar Azam & Co. will look to replicate their 2017 Champions Trophy final performance versus Virat Kohli's India when both the sides meet in the forthcoming T20 World Cup, in the UAE from October 19. For the unversed, India and Pakistan are set to lock horns on October 24, at Dubai International Cricket Stadium, as both sides are in the same group (Pool 2) in the showpiece event. Ahead of the marquee clash, pacer Hasan Ali feels Pakistan can beat India and they will look at their 2017 CT final heroics as an inspiration. "When we won the Champions Trophy (in 2017), it was a very good time for us and we will try to beat them again in the T20 World Cup. We will give our best. Playing against India is always a pressure game because of the expectations of fans from both countries," Hasan Ali said on Wednesday (September 14) as per a report in India Today. "Even those people who don't normally watch cricket follow the India vs Pakistan matches, so the pressure on the players is high but we will give it our best," he added. It is important to note that Hasan was one of the star-performers for Pakistan in the CT'17 final versus India (returning with 3 for 19). Thus, he will look to replicate the same this time around when India-Pakistan lock horns in the forthcoming World Cup. India and Pakistan's group also comprise New Zealand, Afghanistan and two other teams who will join from the qualifiers.

Will try to replicate 2017 CT final: Hasan Ali aims to spearhead Babar Azam-led Pakistan's win over India in T20 WC

<p>Afghanistan’s youth women's football team players, along with their families, have reached the neighbouring country Pakistan and will now look to seek political asylum in third countries amid growing concerns over the status of female athletes under the new Taliban government in Kabul.</p>

<p>Ever since the Taliban outfit took over in Kabul, Afghanistan, they have remained firm on their stance to not allow women athletes to continue with their respective sports, adding to their woes and creating a huge outrage among the sporting fraternity.</p>

<p>As many as 81 people, including female players of several youth teams, their coaches and family members touched down in Pakistan,&nbsp;via the Torkham border. On Thursday (September 16), 34 more are expected to arrive in the country.</p>

<p>"They will go to some other country after 30 days as several international organizations are working towards settling them in any other country, including the UK, US and Australia," said Umar Zia, a senior Pakistan Football Federation official.&nbsp;The team will stay put at the FIFA House, situated inside Gaddafi Sports Complex in Lahore.</p>

<p>For the unversed, even during the earlier Taliban rule -- from 1996&nbsp;to 2001 -- women were kept behind and not allowed to take part in work and education whereas girls were banned to attend school. Hence, sports was also out of reach for the female athletes and everything remains the same this time around as well.</p>

<p>Recently, a Taliban representative told Australian broadcaster SBS on why the Afghan women's cricket team won't be allowed to take part in their sport, whereas the men's cricket team have their full support. "Islam and the Islamic Emirate do not allow women to play cricket or play the kind of sports where they get exposed," SBS quoted the deputy head of the Taliban's cultural commission, Ahmadullah Wasiq, as saying.</p>

<p>Given the stance of the Taliban government, the female athletes still confined in Kabul remain clueless about their future amid the huge unrest in their homeland. While the women's football team has started the procedure to leave their home country, the next move of the Afghan female cricket team is awaited as Taliban regime remains firm on their decision and isn't willing to sympathise with them at any cost.&nbsp;</p>


Afghanistan’s youth women's football team players, along with their families, have reached the neighbouring country Pakistan and will now look to seek political asylum in third countries amid growing concerns over the status of female athletes under the new Taliban government in Kabul.

Afghanistan’s youth women's football team players, along with their families, have reached the neighbouring country Pakistan and will now look to seek political asylum in third countries amid growing concerns over the status of female athletes under the new Taliban government in Kabul. Ever since the Taliban outfit took over in Kabul, Afghanistan, they have remained firm on their stance to not allow women athletes to continue with their respective sports, adding to their woes and creating a huge outrage among the sporting fraternity. As many as 81 people, including female players of several youth teams, their coaches and family members touched down in Pakistan, via the Torkham border. On Thursday (September 16), 34 more are expected to arrive in the country. "They will go to some other country after 30 days as several international organizations are working towards settling them in any other country, including the UK, US and Australia," said Umar Zia, a senior Pakistan Football Federation official. The team will stay put at the FIFA House, situated inside Gaddafi Sports Complex in Lahore. For the unversed, even during the earlier Taliban rule -- from 1996 to 2001 -- women were kept behind and not allowed to take part in work and education whereas girls were banned to attend school. Hence, sports was also out of reach for the female athletes and everything remains the same this time around as well. Recently, a Taliban representative told Australian broadcaster SBS on why the Afghan women's cricket team won't be allowed to take part in their sport, whereas the men's cricket team have their full support. "Islam and the Islamic Emirate do not allow women to play cricket or play the kind of sports where they get exposed," SBS quoted the deputy head of the Taliban's cultural commission, Ahmadullah Wasiq, as saying. Given the stance of the Taliban government, the female athletes still confined in Kabul remain clueless about their future amid the huge unrest in their homeland. While the women's football team has started the procedure to leave their home country, the next move of the Afghan female cricket team is awaited as Taliban regime remains firm on their decision and isn't willing to sympathise with them at any cost.

Afghan female youth football players arrive in Pakistan, to seek political asylum in third countries following unrest back home

<p>The last quarter&nbsp;of 2021 promises to provide plenty of cricketing action for the gentlemen's game's ardent lovers worldwide with IPL 2021, T20 World Cup and Ashes 2021 on cards. However, the fate of Ashes 2021 hangs in the balance as Joe Root &amp; Co. could boycott this year's Ashes citing strict bio-bubble life Down Under.</p>

<p>According to ESPN Cricinfo, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) remain adamant and have not given much thought about postponement, which has not been received well by the senior players and support staff.</p>

<p>"The prospect of England fielding a significantly under-strength squad in the Ashes would appear to have grown following talks between the team and officials at the ECB," the website reported. "As a result, they are considering their options. One of those options is understood to be the entire team - including coaching and support staff - taking a collective decision to boycott the tour.</p>

<p>"While the players appear, in general, fairly sanguine about the prospect of a two-week quarantine for themselves, they are reluctant to put their families through it. And with some players away for the best part of four months (the IPL being followed by the T20 World Cup and the Ashes), they are understandably reluctant not to see their families for the entire period," it stated.</p>

<p><strong>Strict quarantine rules Down Under</strong></p>

<p>It also reported, "The nature of the quarantine is also understood to have disappointed the players. Although there has been talk of allowing them the use of a resort hotel on the Gold Coast, it is now understood they are likely to be permitted only two or three hours out of their hotel rooms each day for training.</p>

<p>"There is also a possibility the squad will be obliged to remain in some sort of 'bubble' throughout the tour to avoid difficulties in moving between states. Families, meanwhile, could still be required to undergo a 'hard' quarantine involving 14 days in a hotel room."</p>

<p>Even during India's tour of Australia last year, the bio-bubble life had taken a toll on the Indian cricketers and many had opened up about how tough it had become for them by the end of the tour.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Thus, it remains to be seen how the forthcoming Ashes 2021 will go ahead or will Root &amp; Co. simply boycott the upcoming edition. For the unversed, Ashes 2019 had ended in a 2-2 scoreline, which provided enthralling contest between bat and ball throughout the English summer.</p>


The last quarter of 2021 promises to provide plenty of cricketing action for the gentlemen's game's ardent lovers worldwide with IPL 2021, T20 World Cup and Ashes 2021 on cards.

The last quarter of 2021 promises to provide plenty of cricketing action for the gentlemen's game's ardent lovers worldwide with IPL 2021, T20 World Cup and Ashes 2021 on cards. However, the fate of Ashes 2021 hangs in the balance as Joe Root & Co. could boycott this year's Ashes citing strict bio-bubble life Down Under. According to ESPN Cricinfo, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) remain adamant and have not given much thought about postponement, which has not been received well by the senior players and support staff. "The prospect of England fielding a significantly under-strength squad in the Ashes would appear to have grown following talks between the team and officials at the ECB," the website reported. "As a result, they are considering their options. One of those options is understood to be the entire team - including coaching and support staff - taking a collective decision to boycott the tour. "While the players appear, in general, fairly sanguine about the prospect of a two-week quarantine for themselves, they are reluctant to put their families through it. And with some players away for the best part of four months (the IPL being followed by the T20 World Cup and the Ashes), they are understandably reluctant not to see their families for the entire period," it stated. Strict quarantine rules Down Under It also reported, "The nature of the quarantine is also understood to have disappointed the players. Although there has been talk of allowing them the use of a resort hotel on the Gold Coast, it is now understood they are likely to be permitted only two or three hours out of their hotel rooms each day for training. "There is also a possibility the squad will be obliged to remain in some sort of 'bubble' throughout the tour to avoid difficulties in moving between states. Families, meanwhile, could still be required to undergo a 'hard' quarantine involving 14 days in a hotel room." Even during India's tour of Australia last year, the bio-bubble life had taken a toll on the Indian cricketers and many had opened up about how tough it had become for them by the end of the tour. Thus, it remains to be seen how the forthcoming Ashes 2021 will go ahead or will Root & Co. simply boycott the upcoming edition. For the unversed, Ashes 2019 had ended in a 2-2 scoreline, which provided enthralling contest between bat and ball throughout the English summer.

Joe Root-led England on verge of boycotting Ashes 2021 citing strict bio-bubble life: Reports

<p>Paris St Germain coach Mauricio Pochettino warned that it would take some time for his formidable attacking trio to shine after they disappointed in a 1-1 draw at Club Brugge in their Champions League opener on Wednesday.<br />
<br />
Lionel Messi hit the woodwork on his first start with PSG but he failed to add to his 120 goals in the competition, while Neymar was hugely disappointing and Kylian Mbappe limped off the pitch injured after setting up Ander Herrera for the opening goal.<br />
<br />
It was the first time the three attacking players were together on the field and they struggled to find each other and create space against a compact Belgian side.<br />
<br />
"It requires time for them to shine together," said Pochettino. "It requires work. I had made it clear that we`re not a team yet, we have to work for this."<br />
<br />
Messi and Neymar, starting on the flanks, left the fullbacks exposed and Brugge exploited the space with a strong collective performance as PSG`s midfield was almost non-existent in the absence of the injured Marco Verratti.<br />
<br />
That prompted Pochettino to replace Leandro Paredes with Danilo and Georginio Wijnaldum with Julian Draxler but to no effect.<br />
<br />
"We needed more consistency and more fluidity. We made too many mistakes," Pochettino explained. "But despite all this I`m satisfied with the players. We have to keep calm and keep working."<br />
<br />
PSG are two points behind Manchester City who demolished RB Leipzig 6-3, two weeks before the Ligue 1 side take on the Premier League champions at the Parc des Princes.</p>


Paris St Germain coach Mauricio Pochettino warned that it would take some time for his formidable attacking trio to shine after they disappointed in a 1-1 draw at Club Brugge in their Champions League opener on Wednesday.

Paris St Germain coach Mauricio Pochettino warned that it would take some time for his formidable attacking trio to shine after they disappointed in a 1-1 draw at Club Brugge in their Champions League opener on Wednesday. Lionel Messi hit the woodwork on his first start with PSG but he failed to add to his 120 goals in the competition, while Neymar was hugely disappointing and Kylian Mbappe limped off the pitch injured after setting up Ander Herrera for the opening goal. It was the first time the three attacking players were together on the field and they struggled to find each other and create space against a compact Belgian side. "It requires time for them to shine together," said Pochettino. "It requires work. I had made it clear that we`re not a team yet, we have to work for this." Messi and Neymar, starting on the flanks, left the fullbacks exposed and Brugge exploited the space with a strong collective performance as PSG`s midfield was almost non-existent in the absence of the injured Marco Verratti. That prompted Pochettino to replace Leandro Paredes with Danilo and Georginio Wijnaldum with Julian Draxler but to no effect. "We needed more consistency and more fluidity. We made too many mistakes," Pochettino explained. "But despite all this I`m satisfied with the players. We have to keep calm and keep working." PSG are two points behind Manchester City who demolished RB Leipzig 6-3, two weeks before the Ligue 1 side take on the Premier League champions at the Parc des Princes.

It will take time for attacking trio to shine: PSG coach backs Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe and Neymar

<p>Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp said his side got carried away by their own football after a topsy-turvy 3-2 victory over AC Milan in their opening Champions League Group B clash on Wednesday.<br />
<br />
With fans inside Anfield for a Champions League match for the first time in 18 months, Liverpool began in electrifying fashion and threatened to run riot after Fikayo Tomori`s own goal handed them a ninth-minute lead.<br />
<br />
Liverpool had 13 goal attempts in the opening 15 minutes but incredibly found themselves trailing at halftime as Ante Rebic and Brahim Diaz struck for Milan shortly before halftime.<br />
<br />
But goals by Mohamed Salah, who missed a first-half penalty, and Jordan Henderson`s 69th-minute piledriver secured an important three points in a daunting group that also includes Porto and Atletico Madrid, who drew 0-0.<br />
<br />
"We started incredibly well. We played a super, super game. An intense game but football wise as well," Klopp said of Liverpool`s barnstorming start to the clash of the European heavyweights -- only their third ever meeting.<br />
<br />
"We got punished in the last few minutes of the first half but it started earlier. We got carried away by our own football. We didn`t keep it simple anymore, offensively and defensively we were not organised anymore.<br />
<br />
"But it did not feel like we cannot come back. It was clear that we had to immediately get back to how we started and then we scored wonderful goals. It is deserved but we had 10 minutes where Milan nearly changed the whole tie."<br />
<br />
After the empty stadiums for last season`s Champions League campaign, Klopp revelled in a return to the special atmosphere created by the Kop on European nights at Anfield -- punching the air repeatedly after the final whistle.<br />
<br />
Asked if he had enjoyed it, Klopp said: "Yeah, apart from those 10 minutes! It`s the football I want to see to be honest, in most of the moments."<br />
<br />
For seven-time champions Milan it was a frantic return to the competition after a seven-year absence and while their inexperienced team were in danger of being overwhelmed early on, coach Stefano Pioli took plenty of positives.<br />
<br />
"Liverpool played a great game especially in the first 25 minutes. Then we overturned it, the regret is the two goals conceded in the second half, also due to our mistakes," he said.<br />
<br />
"It was a game that will make us grow a lot in terms of intensity and quality. We go home with the awareness that the team can grow and that the Champions League level is really high, we will have to try even harder."</p>


Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp said his side got carried away by their own football after a topsy-turvy 3-2 victory over AC Milan in their opening Champions League Group B clash on Wednesday.

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp said his side got carried away by their own football after a topsy-turvy 3-2 victory over AC Milan in their opening Champions League Group B clash on Wednesday. With fans inside Anfield for a Champions League match for the first time in 18 months, Liverpool began in electrifying fashion and threatened to run riot after Fikayo Tomori`s own goal handed them a ninth-minute lead. Liverpool had 13 goal attempts in the opening 15 minutes but incredibly found themselves trailing at halftime as Ante Rebic and Brahim Diaz struck for Milan shortly before halftime. But goals by Mohamed Salah, who missed a first-half penalty, and Jordan Henderson`s 69th-minute piledriver secured an important three points in a daunting group that also includes Porto and Atletico Madrid, who drew 0-0. "We started incredibly well. We played a super, super game. An intense game but football wise as well," Klopp said of Liverpool`s barnstorming start to the clash of the European heavyweights -- only their third ever meeting. "We got punished in the last few minutes of the first half but it started earlier. We got carried away by our own football. We didn`t keep it simple anymore, offensively and defensively we were not organised anymore. "But it did not feel like we cannot come back. It was clear that we had to immediately get back to how we started and then we scored wonderful goals. It is deserved but we had 10 minutes where Milan nearly changed the whole tie." After the empty stadiums for last season`s Champions League campaign, Klopp revelled in a return to the special atmosphere created by the Kop on European nights at Anfield -- punching the air repeatedly after the final whistle. Asked if he had enjoyed it, Klopp said: "Yeah, apart from those 10 minutes! It`s the football I want to see to be honest, in most of the moments." For seven-time champions Milan it was a frantic return to the competition after a seven-year absence and while their inexperienced team were in danger of being overwhelmed early on, coach Stefano Pioli took plenty of positives. "Liverpool played a great game especially in the first 25 minutes. Then we overturned it, the regret is the two goals conceded in the second half, also due to our mistakes," he said. "It was a game that will make us grow a lot in terms of intensity and quality. We go home with the awareness that the team can grow and that the Champions League level is really high, we will have to try even harder."

We got carried away, says Juergen Klopp after Liverpool edge thriller vs AC Milan

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/have-given-everything-to-team-virat-kohli-to-step-down-as-indias-t20-captain-after-t20-world-cup-in-uae-413552">Virat Kohli</a> has stunned the whole cricketing fraternity by announcing his decision to step down as India's T20I captain after the upcoming World Cup in UAE.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Thursday (September 16), the 32-year-old tweeted, "I have been fortunate enough to not only represent India but also lead the Indian Cricket Team to my utmost capability. I thank everyone who has supported me in my journey as the Captain of the Indian Cricket Team."</p>

<p>"I couldn't have done it without them - the boys, the support staff, the selection committee, my coaches, and each and every Indian who prayed for us to win. Understanding workload is a very important thing and considering my immense workload over the last 8-9 years playing all 3 formats and captaining regularly for last 5-6 years, I feel I need to give myself space to be fully ready to lead the Indian Team in Test and ODI Cricket. I have given everything to the Team during my time as T20 Captain and I will continue to do so for the T20 Team as a batsman moving forward."</p>

<p>"Of course, arriving at this decision took a lot of time. After a lot of contemplation and discussions with my close people, Ravi bhai and also Rohit, who have been an essential part of the leadership group, I've decided to step down as the T20 Captain after this T20 World Cup in Dubai in October. I have also spoken to the secretary Mr Jay Shah and the President of BCCI Mr Sourav Ganguly along with all the selectors about the same. I will continue to serve Indian Cricket and the Indian Team to the best of my ability."</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/virat-kohli-hardik-pandya-rashid-khan-top-7-ipl-2021-stars-and-their-cricketing-idols-412928">Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya, Rashid Khan: Top 7 IPL 2021 stars and their cricketing idols</a></strong>&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="und">🇮🇳 ❤️ <a href="https://t.co/Ds7okjhj9J">pic.twitter.com/Ds7okjhj9J</a></p>
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/1438478585518456832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 16, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>While talks were rife that Kohli should step down as limited-overs captain or at least get rid of the responsibilities from the shortest version due to his inability to lead India to an ICC title since taking over fully in early 2017, the criticism always seemed a bit harsh. After all, 'a captain is only as good as the team'. However, talks intensified after India lost the WTC final in mid-2021.</p>

<p>Moreover, Kohli's form across formats hasn't been at a level his fan clubs are used to.&nbsp;The maverick cricketer has set supremely high standards courtesy of his unmatched zeal for success, jaw-dropping consistency, strong will and fitness. Keeping all this in mind, his recent dip in form has become a topic of debate worldwide. For the unversed, his last international ton came in late 2019.</p>

<p>To add to it, cricket in COVID-19 times hasn't been easy, to say the least. Bio-bubble life, strict quarantine rules, being away from family for months or staying confined with them on tours has affected someone as mentally strong as Kohli.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While some may say that Kohli's decision was long due, his timing does trigger some panic among the Team India fans.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-tour-of-new-zealand-pushed-to-late-2022-amid-cramped-schedule-due-to-covid-19-report-413454">India's tour of New Zealand pushed to late 2022 amid cramped schedule due to Covid-19: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>As the current all-format skipper has made it clear that he won't leave captaincy duties before the T20 World Cup -- which is praiseworthy -- a section of fans are already wondering if the timing of the decision can create adverse consequences. Here are some&nbsp;glaring questions which arises after Kohli's recent decision:&nbsp;</p>

<p>1) Could Kohli have announced his decision after the world cup, irrespective of India's campaign?&nbsp;</p>

<p>2) Clash of views? With Rohit Sharma very likely to succeed Kohli, he will want more say in decision-making even during the World cup. The leadership group already stars Kohli, Ravi Shastri (head coach) and MS Dhoni (team mentor). While Rohit was anyway going to be a part of crucial decisions, will he have a larger say, leading to varied opinions?&nbsp;</p>

<p>3) What if Kohli manages to lead India to the coveted title? Will he reconsider? Given that the superstar cricketer remains firm on his stance at all times, it is highly unlikely. But, it can lead to more talks regarding the timing of his decision.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For now, Indian fans have to believe that there is proper communication among the senior team management. However, India's T20 World Cup performance will now be measured more closely. If&nbsp;the Men in Blue fail to win the trophy, the timing of Kohli's latest decision might raise eyebrows; leading to his naysayers having plenty to scrutinise.&nbsp;</p>


Virat Kohli has stunned the whole cricketing fraternity by announcing his decision to step down as India's T20I captain after the upcoming World Cup in UAE. On Thursday (September 16), the 32-year-old tweeted, "I have been fortunate enough to not only represent India but also lead the Indian Cricket Team to my utmost capability.

Virat Kohli has stunned the whole cricketing fraternity by announcing his decision to step down as India's T20I captain after the upcoming World Cup in UAE. On Thursday (September 16), the 32-year-old tweeted, "I have been fortunate enough to not only represent India but also lead the Indian Cricket Team to my utmost capability. I thank everyone who has supported me in my journey as the Captain of the Indian Cricket Team." "I couldn't have done it without them - the boys, the support staff, the selection committee, my coaches, and each and every Indian who prayed for us to win. Understanding workload is a very important thing and considering my immense workload over the last 8-9 years playing all 3 formats and captaining regularly for last 5-6 years, I feel I need to give myself space to be fully ready to lead the Indian Team in Test and ODI Cricket. I have given everything to the Team during my time as T20 Captain and I will continue to do so for the T20 Team as a batsman moving forward." "Of course, arriving at this decision took a lot of time. After a lot of contemplation and discussions with my close people, Ravi bhai and also Rohit, who have been an essential part of the leadership group, I've decided to step down as the T20 Captain after this T20 World Cup in Dubai in October. I have also spoken to the secretary Mr Jay Shah and the President of BCCI Mr Sourav Ganguly along with all the selectors about the same. I will continue to serve Indian Cricket and the Indian Team to the best of my ability." IN PICS | Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya, Rashid Khan: Top 7 IPL 2021 stars and their cricketing idols 🇮🇳 ❤️ pic.twitter.com/Ds7okjhj9J — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) September 16, 2021 × While talks were rife that Kohli should step down as limited-overs captain or at least get rid of the responsibilities from the shortest version due to his inability to lead India to an ICC title since taking over fully in early 2017, the criticism always seemed a bit harsh. After all, 'a captain is only as good as the team'. However, talks intensified after India lost the WTC final in mid-2021. Moreover, Kohli's form across formats hasn't been at a level his fan clubs are used to. The maverick cricketer has set supremely high standards courtesy of his unmatched zeal for success, jaw-dropping consistency, strong will and fitness. Keeping all this in mind, his recent dip in form has become a topic of debate worldwide. For the unversed, his last international ton came in late 2019. To add to it, cricket in COVID-19 times hasn't been easy, to say the least. Bio-bubble life, strict quarantine rules, being away from family for months or staying confined with them on tours has affected someone as mentally strong as Kohli. While some may say that Kohli's decision was long due, his timing does trigger some panic among the Team India fans. ALSO READ | India's tour of New Zealand pushed to late 2022 amid cramped schedule due to Covid-19: Report As the current all-format skipper has made it clear that he won't leave captaincy duties before the T20 World Cup -- which is praiseworthy -- a section of fans are already wondering if the timing of the decision can create adverse consequences. Here are some glaring questions which arises after Kohli's recent decision: 1) Could Kohli have announced his decision after the world cup, irrespective of India's campaign? 2) Clash of views? With Rohit Sharma very likely to succeed Kohli, he will want more say in decision-making even during the World cup. The leadership group already stars Kohli, Ravi Shastri (head coach) and MS Dhoni (team mentor). While Rohit was anyway going to be a part of crucial decisions, will he have a larger say, leading to varied opinions? 3) What if Kohli manages to lead India to the coveted title? Will he reconsider? Given that the superstar cricketer remains firm on his stance at all times, it is highly unlikely. But, it can lead to more talks regarding the timing of his decision. For now, Indian fans have to believe that there is proper communication among the senior team management. However, India's T20 World Cup performance will now be measured more closely. If the Men in Blue fail to win the trophy, the timing of Kohli's latest decision might raise eyebrows; leading to his naysayers having plenty to scrutinise.

Timely done or untimely? Virat Kohli's resignation as T20I captain after World Cup leads to more questions than answers

<p>BCCI announced a 15-man squad for Virat Kohli-led Team India's forthcoming T20 World Cup on September 8. While the squad features some surprise inclusions and few notable omission, R Ashwin's comeback has surely made heads turn.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For the unversed, the 34-year-old Ashwin wasn't favoured in the limited-overs squad since mid-2017. However, with Yuzvendra Chahal's dip in form and Washington Sundar's injury, Ashwin was preferred for the T20 WC. Though Ashwin's record in T20 WC is exceptional, with 20 wickets in 15 innings, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar feels it is just a consolation for his England Tests snub.</p>

<p>Ashwin didn't feature in the four Tests versus England, in the United Kingdom, and Gavaskar feels his inclusion is just a consolation as he might still find it tough to find a place in the line-up.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Ashwin's return is a good thing but we'll have to wait and see if he gets a place in the playing XI. You have selected him in the 15, that's alright, you chose him in the squad in England as well but are not giving him the chance in the XI,” Gavaskar said on Sports Tak. "So, he’s perhaps just given a consolation cup to make up for the disappointment that he might have here (in England). Will he play in the XI? Only time will tell,” he added.</p>

<p>Apart from Ashwin, MS Dhoni was also included in the T20 WC squad as a team mentor. On the former Indian captain's return to the Indian dressing room, Gavaskar said, "MS Dhoni being the mentor is bigger news than Ashwin's selection because a captain, who led India to the 2011 World Cup and 2007 T20 World Cup wins, if he's in that camp, then India will immensely benefit from it."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/how-rohit-sharmas-backing-led-to-r-ashwins-inclusion-in-virat-kohli-led-indias-t20-world-cup-squad-reports-412041"><strong>How Rohit Sharma's backing led to R Ashwin's inclusion in Virat Kohli-led India's T20 World Cup squad: Reports</strong></a></p>

<p>India are placed in Group 2 in the marquee event, along with Pakistan, New Zealand, Afghanistan and two other teams who will join from the qualifiers. The Kohli-led Men in Blue will commence their campaign on October 24, versus arch-rivals Pakistan at Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. They will hope to win their second T20 WC after the success in the inaugural edition.</p>


BCCI announced a 15-man squad for Virat Kohli-led Team India's forthcoming T20 World Cup on September 8. While the squad features some surprise inclusions and few notable omission, R Ashwin's comeback has surely made heads turn.

BCCI announced a 15-man squad for Virat Kohli-led Team India's forthcoming T20 World Cup on September 8. While the squad features some surprise inclusions and few notable omission, R Ashwin's comeback has surely made heads turn. For the unversed, the 34-year-old Ashwin wasn't favoured in the limited-overs squad since mid-2017. However, with Yuzvendra Chahal's dip in form and Washington Sundar's injury, Ashwin was preferred for the T20 WC. Though Ashwin's record in T20 WC is exceptional, with 20 wickets in 15 innings, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar feels it is just a consolation for his England Tests snub. Ashwin didn't feature in the four Tests versus England, in the United Kingdom, and Gavaskar feels his inclusion is just a consolation as he might still find it tough to find a place in the line-up. "Ashwin's return is a good thing but we'll have to wait and see if he gets a place in the playing XI. You have selected him in the 15, that's alright, you chose him in the squad in England as well but are not giving him the chance in the XI,” Gavaskar said on Sports Tak. "So, he’s perhaps just given a consolation cup to make up for the disappointment that he might have here (in England). Will he play in the XI? Only time will tell,” he added. Apart from Ashwin, MS Dhoni was also included in the T20 WC squad as a team mentor. On the former Indian captain's return to the Indian dressing room, Gavaskar said, "MS Dhoni being the mentor is bigger news than Ashwin's selection because a captain, who led India to the 2011 World Cup and 2007 T20 World Cup wins, if he's in that camp, then India will immensely benefit from it." ALSO READ | How Rohit Sharma's backing led to R Ashwin's inclusion in Virat Kohli-led India's T20 World Cup squad: Reports India are placed in Group 2 in the marquee event, along with Pakistan, New Zealand, Afghanistan and two other teams who will join from the qualifiers. The Kohli-led Men in Blue will commence their campaign on October 24, versus arch-rivals Pakistan at Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. They will hope to win their second T20 WC after the success in the inaugural edition.

Sunil Gavaskar terms R Ashwin's inclusion in T20 WC squad as 'consolation' for England Tests snub

Revisiting top 5 team totals before IPL 2021 storm kicks off in UAE

<p>Team India's tour of New Zealand has now been pushed to late 2022 due to the cramped cricketing schedule. The Kane Williamson-led Black Caps were set to host India over the summer but the tour has been postponed and will now be held after the 2022 T20 World Cup, in Australia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For the unversed, the WTC finalists India and New Zealand were set to lock horns in a 3-ODI series, a part of the ODI World Cup Super League for the 2023 ODI World Cup. However, the calendar congestion -- with many series or tours still being postponed or cancelled in the wake of Covid-19 crisis -- has meant that the tour had to be pushed ahead. A New Zealand Cricket (NZC) spokesperson has confirmed the development while talking to stuff.co.nz.</p>

<p>Thus, the Kiwis will now be hosting Bangladesh, The Netherlands, and South Africa this season.&nbsp; “We’ve got to be mindful of players coming back from a long winter and we’ve got to give them time at home as well,” NZC chief executive David White had told Stuff.</p>

<p>Nonetheless, while the tour has been postponed, there is no obstacle to India's home series versus New Zealand, which will be held this year after the T20 World Cup. Virat Kohli-led India will play hosts to the Blackcaps in November for two Tests and three T20Is.</p>

<p>India last toured New Zealand just before the Covid-19 crisis took over worldwide. Back then, Kohli &amp; Co. whitewashed New Zealand in the 5 T20Is, but were clean swept in the preceding three ODIs and two Tests.</p>


Team India's tour of New Zealand has now been pushed to late 2022 due to the cramped cricketing schedule. The Kane Williamson-led Black Caps were set to host India over the summer but the tour has been postponed and will now be held after the 2022 T20 World Cup, in Australia.

Team India's tour of New Zealand has now been pushed to late 2022 due to the cramped cricketing schedule. The Kane Williamson-led Black Caps were set to host India over the summer but the tour has been postponed and will now be held after the 2022 T20 World Cup, in Australia. For the unversed, the WTC finalists India and New Zealand were set to lock horns in a 3-ODI series, a part of the ODI World Cup Super League for the 2023 ODI World Cup. However, the calendar congestion -- with many series or tours still being postponed or cancelled in the wake of Covid-19 crisis -- has meant that the tour had to be pushed ahead. A New Zealand Cricket (NZC) spokesperson has confirmed the development while talking to stuff.co.nz. Thus, the Kiwis will now be hosting Bangladesh, The Netherlands, and South Africa this season. “We’ve got to be mindful of players coming back from a long winter and we’ve got to give them time at home as well,” NZC chief executive David White had told Stuff. Nonetheless, while the tour has been postponed, there is no obstacle to India's home series versus New Zealand, which will be held this year after the T20 World Cup. Virat Kohli-led India will play hosts to the Blackcaps in November for two Tests and three T20Is. India last toured New Zealand just before the Covid-19 crisis took over worldwide. Back then, Kohli & Co. whitewashed New Zealand in the 5 T20Is, but were clean swept in the preceding three ODIs and two Tests.

India's tour of New Zealand pushed to late 2022 amid cramped schedule due to Covid-19: Report

<p>Neeraj Chopra has become the darling of the nation ever since he won India its first-ever Olympic medal in athletics in the Tokyo 2020 event. The 23-year-old sensation won gold in the men's javelin final with a best throw of 87.58m. Since then, he has been busy with several interviews, media commitments and also made an appearance on Amitabh Bachchan's famous show, Kaun Banega Crorepati (Who wants to be a millionaire?).</p>

<p>In the latest episode in Season 13, which will be aired on Saturday (September 18), Neeraj Chopra won hearts and left Amitabh Bachchan in splits when he was asked to narrate a famous dialogue from the latter's filmography. Neeraj delivered a dialogue from Big B's superhit 1981 movie, Silsila, in the most hilarious manner. Here's the video -</p>

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<p>Neeraj appeared on the popular show along with Indian men's hockey team's goalkeeper PR Sreejesh. For the unversed, the men's hockey side also clinched a medal for Team India in the Tokyo 2020. Manpreet Singh-led India won bronze in the mega event, ending India's 41-year-long wait for an Olympic medal.</p>

<p>Both the athletes, thus, spoke at length on their sporting careers and their journey so far while playing the quiz show with Big B.</p>


Neeraj Chopra has become the darling of the nation ever since he won India its first-ever Olympic medal in athletics in the Tokyo 2020 event. The 23-year-old sensation won gold in the men's javelin final with a best throw of 87.

Neeraj Chopra has become the darling of the nation ever since he won India its first-ever Olympic medal in athletics in the Tokyo 2020 event. The 23-year-old sensation won gold in the men's javelin final with a best throw of 87.58m. Since then, he has been busy with several interviews, media commitments and also made an appearance on Amitabh Bachchan's famous show, Kaun Banega Crorepati (Who wants to be a millionaire?). In the latest episode in Season 13, which will be aired on Saturday (September 18), Neeraj Chopra won hearts and left Amitabh Bachchan in splits when he was asked to narrate a famous dialogue from the latter's filmography. Neeraj delivered a dialogue from Big B's superhit 1981 movie, Silsila, in the most hilarious manner. Here's the video - View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sony Entertainment Television (@sonytvofficial) × Neeraj appeared on the popular show along with Indian men's hockey team's goalkeeper PR Sreejesh. For the unversed, the men's hockey side also clinched a medal for Team India in the Tokyo 2020. Manpreet Singh-led India won bronze in the mega event, ending India's 41-year-long wait for an Olympic medal. Both the athletes, thus, spoke at length on their sporting careers and their journey so far while playing the quiz show with Big B.

Neeraj Chopra gives hilarious Haryanvi twist to Amitabh Bachchan's iconic dialogue in KBC promo - Watch

<p>Australia won the 2015 ODI World Cup and became only the second country to win the elusive title as hosts. In the 2015 edition, Australia and co-hosts New Zealand had locked horns with each other in the summit clash at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Melbourne where the Michael Clarke-led Men in Yellow defeated the Black Caps by 7 wickets.</p>

<p>Soon after the victory, players were busy giving interviews when Aussie all-rounder Glenn Maxwell left his interview midway to hug Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar. The former Indian cricketer Tendulkar -- who was the brand ambassador of the 2015 edition -- was walking towards the presentation stage to be part of the ceremony. Maxwell noticed Tendulkar and ran towards him to pay his respect to the legend and give him a hug. The video was recorded by one of the fans and went viral on social media back then.&nbsp;<strong>Check out the video -</strong></p>

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<p>For the unversed, Tendulkar and Maxwell have shared the dressing room in Mumbai Indians (MI) camp during the IPL 2013 edition, when Rohit Sharma-led MI won the championship for the first time. Maxwell was part of the MI dugout before he was bought by the Punjab Kings (PBKS), then known as Kings XI Punjab (KXIP). He will resume his services for Virat Kohli-led Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the UAE leg of IPL 14, from September 19.</p>

<p>Coming to his 2015 ODI WC performance, Maxwell was an integral part of Clarke &amp; Co.'s success; finishing with 2 fifties, 1 hundred, vital knocks in the quarter and semi-finals along with 6 scalps overall.</p>


Australia won the 2015 ODI World Cup and became only the second country to win the elusive title as hosts. In the 2015 edition, Australia and co-hosts New Zealand had locked horns with each other in the summit clash at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Melbourne where the Michael Clarke-led Men in Yellow defeated the Black Caps by 7 wickets.

Australia won the 2015 ODI World Cup and became only the second country to win the elusive title as hosts. In the 2015 edition, Australia and co-hosts New Zealand had locked horns with each other in the summit clash at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Melbourne where the Michael Clarke-led Men in Yellow defeated the Black Caps by 7 wickets. Soon after the victory, players were busy giving interviews when Aussie all-rounder Glenn Maxwell left his interview midway to hug Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar. The former Indian cricketer Tendulkar -- who was the brand ambassador of the 2015 edition -- was walking towards the presentation stage to be part of the ceremony. Maxwell noticed Tendulkar and ran towards him to pay his respect to the legend and give him a hug. The video was recorded by one of the fans and went viral on social media back then. Check out the video - × For the unversed, Tendulkar and Maxwell have shared the dressing room in Mumbai Indians (MI) camp during the IPL 2013 edition, when Rohit Sharma-led MI won the championship for the first time. Maxwell was part of the MI dugout before he was bought by the Punjab Kings (PBKS), then known as Kings XI Punjab (KXIP). He will resume his services for Virat Kohli-led Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the UAE leg of IPL 14, from September 19. Coming to his 2015 ODI WC performance, Maxwell was an integral part of Clarke & Co.'s success; finishing with 2 fifties, 1 hundred, vital knocks in the quarter and semi-finals along with 6 scalps overall.

Throwback: When Glenn Maxwell left interview midway to hug Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar after Australia's 2015 World Cup win - watch

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