Deepak Chahar is gearing up for IPL 2021's second and final leg, where he will once again represent the MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) franchise. The 29-year-old was last seen in action on the cricket field for Team India during their limited-overs tour of Sri Lanka in July.

India's second-stringed team had travelled to Sri Lanka, with Rahul Dravid and Shikhar Dhawan acting as the stand-in head coach and captain, respectively. While his tour was cut-short after the T20I series opener, being one of the close contacts of Covid-positive Krunal Pandya, Chahar accounted for 6 scalps, in 3 matches, and made a match-winning contribution with an unbeaten 69 in the Men in Blue's second and penultimate ODI versus the Islanders.

Recalling a hilarious interaction which he had with Dravid during the SL trip, Chahar told Aakash Chopra in a recent interaction on his Youtube channel, "When we reached Sri Lanka, Rahul (Dravid) sir first asked me about my age. I told him I am 28 and will turn 29 soon. So, he was like - ‘is it your original age or cricketer’s age?’. Then I told him that mine is original because my father was in the Air Force, so there was no way I could forge my age!"

Deepak Chahar - An ideal Test all-rounder?

“On a serious note, he (Dravid) also told me that I have 4-5 years of Test cricket left in me. Those words have stayed with me. He has always considered me as a Test bowler and has selected me for red-ball matches for India A. Whenever I have played under him, I have always performer well with both bat and ball. He knows my capability very well," Chahar told Chopra.

Currently, Chahar is preparing hard for the IPL 2021's UAE leg, which commences from September 19 at Dubai. He is also named in the reserves list for India's T20 World Cup campaign.

Deepak Chahar is gearing up for IPL 2021's second and final leg, where he will once again represent the MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) franchise. The 29-year-old was last seen in action on the cricket field for Team India during their limited-overs tour of Sri Lanka in July.

Deepak Chahar is gearing up for IPL 2021's second and final leg, where he will once again represent the MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) franchise. The 29-year-old was last seen in action on the cricket field for Team India during their limited-overs tour of Sri Lanka in July. India's second-stringed team had travelled to Sri Lanka, with Rahul Dravid and Shikhar Dhawan acting as the stand-in head coach and captain, respectively. While his tour was cut-short after the T20I series opener, being one of the close contacts of Covid-positive Krunal Pandya, Chahar accounted for 6 scalps, in 3 matches, and made a match-winning contribution with an unbeaten 69 in the Men in Blue's second and penultimate ODI versus the Islanders. Recalling a hilarious interaction which he had with Dravid during the SL trip, Chahar told Aakash Chopra in a recent interaction on his Youtube channel, "When we reached Sri Lanka, Rahul (Dravid) sir first asked me about my age. I told him I am 28 and will turn 29 soon. So, he was like - ‘is it your original age or cricketer’s age?’. Then I told him that mine is original because my father was in the Air Force, so there was no way I could forge my age!" Deepak Chahar - An ideal Test all-rounder? “On a serious note, he (Dravid) also told me that I have 4-5 years of Test cricket left in me. Those words have stayed with me. He has always considered me as a Test bowler and has selected me for red-ball matches for India A. Whenever I have played under him, I have always performer well with both bat and ball. He knows my capability very well," Chahar told Chopra. Currently, Chahar is preparing hard for the IPL 2021's UAE leg, which commences from September 19 at Dubai. He is also named in the reserves list for India's T20 World Cup campaign.

Original age or cricketer's age? Deepak Chahar recalls hilarious conversation with Rahul Dravid during Sri Lanka tour

Novak Djokovic was on the verge of completing a calendar-year Grand Slam, first in male tennis since 1969, in the recently-concluded US Open 2021. However, the Serbian lost the final to Russia's Daniil Medvedev in straight sets, 6-4, 6-4, 6-4 and missed out on creating history as well as going past Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal's Grand Slam titles as the famed trio remain on par with each (20).

During the US Open, Djokovic not only won hearts on the court for his emphatic performances and consistency, the No. 1 ranked Serb also won over his wife, Jelena, by donning the husband's hat with aplomb and doing the dishes in the kitchen after his match. Jelena, who remains active on social media platforms, shared the video of Djokovic doing the dishes on Twitter and wrote, "Novak’s 3rd shift/Novakova treća smena. This is how Novak meditates after his late night match at the #USOpen He’s my MVP in the kitchen"

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Novak’s 3rd shift/Novakova treća smena. This is how Novak meditates after his late night match at the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/USOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#USOpen</a> He’s my MVP in the kitchen <a href="https://twitter.com/DjokerNole?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@djokernole</a> <a href="https://t.co/1XvkT8YEdt">pic.twitter.com/1XvkT8YEdt</a>
— Jelena Djokovic (@jelenadjokovic) <a href="https://twitter.com/jelenadjokovic/status/1435261284828680199?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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After the defeat in the US Open final, Djokovic stated at the post-match presentation, "Tonight, even though I have not won the match, my heart is filled with joy and I'm the happiest man alive because you guys made me feel very special on the court. Part of me is very sad. It’s a tough one to swallow, this loss, I mean, considering everything that was on the line."

The Serb will now look to surpass Federer and Nadal's tally in the next calendar year and consolidate his lead.

Novak Djokovic was on the verge of completing a calendar-year Grand Slam, first in male tennis since 1969, in the recently-concluded US Open 2021. However, the Serbian lost the final to Russia's Daniil Medvedev in straight sets, 6-4, 6-4, 6-4 and missed out on creating history as well as going past Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal's Grand Slam titles as the famed trio remain on par with each (20).

Novak Djokovic was on the verge of completing a calendar-year Grand Slam, first in male tennis since 1969, in the recently-concluded US Open 2021. However, the Serbian lost the final to Russia's Daniil Medvedev in straight sets, 6-4, 6-4, 6-4 and missed out on creating history as well as going past Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal's Grand Slam titles as the famed trio remain on par with each (20). During the US Open, Djokovic not only won hearts on the court for his emphatic performances and consistency, the No. 1 ranked Serb also won over his wife, Jelena, by donning the husband's hat with aplomb and doing the dishes in the kitchen after his match. Jelena, who remains active on social media platforms, shared the video of Djokovic doing the dishes on Twitter and wrote, "Novak’s 3rd shift/Novakova treća smena. This is how Novak meditates after his late night match at the #USOpen He’s my MVP in the kitchen" Novak’s 3rd shift/Novakova treća smena. This is how Novak meditates after his late night match at the #USOpen He’s my MVP in the kitchen @djokernole pic.twitter.com/1XvkT8YEdt — Jelena Djokovic (@jelenadjokovic) September 7, 2021 × After the defeat in the US Open final, Djokovic stated at the post-match presentation, "Tonight, even though I have not won the match, my heart is filled with joy and I'm the happiest man alive because you guys made me feel very special on the court. Part of me is very sad. It’s a tough one to swallow, this loss, I mean, considering everything that was on the line." The Serb will now look to surpass Federer and Nadal's tally in the next calendar year and consolidate his lead.

'My MVP in the kitchen' - Husband duties! Novak Djokovic does the dishes as wife Jelena shares adorable video - watch

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has termed 18-year-old tennis player Emma Raducanu as "talent of the century". Raducanu defeated Leylah Fernandez of Canada in the finals of the US Open to win her maiden Grand Slam."I watched the final, and it was absolutely impressive. It`s been a long time since I watched a full women`s tennis game, to be honest, and I was really impressed by the power, speed, and the whole game. Women`s tennis is obviously in a brilliant moment," Goal.com quoted Fernandez as saying.

"These two girls were 18 and 19, and what they showed was massively impressive. Both during the game itself, and then during the trophy ceremony. Both girls, how they spoke, at 18 or 19, that was inspiring to be honest, even more so than the tennis! I was absolutely overwhelmed by the way the two girls presented themselves," he added. Further talking about Raducanu, Klopp said: "That`s what you can take from it. If you are 18 years old and you win the US Open, there is one thing that has obviously happened in the last 10-15 years; hard work. She is for sure the talent of the century, but without hard work, it is not possible to be there."

"To see her there and smiling during the game, it really was the nicest thing I could imagine. I will for sure watch women`s tennis much more now than I did in the last few years," he added.US Open champion Emma Raducanu jumped 127 spots in this week`s WTA Rankings, moving from No. 150 to No. 23, while runner-up at New York, Leylah Fernandez moved to No. 28.For the first time in six years, Britain has a new top player in Emma Raducanu. The teenager started the year at No. 345 (11 best among British women), but her ranking has been on a rapid climb in the past three months. The Briton has won 21 of her past 25 matches. After reaching the fourth round at Wimbledon as a wildcard, Raducanu`s ranking improved from No.338 to No.179, helping her secure a spot in qualifying at the US Open.By winning the US Open as a qualifier, Raducanu earned 2,040 points and jumped 127 spots to No. 23. She also overtakes Johanna Konta as the highest-ranked woman from Britain.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has termed 18-year-old tennis player Emma Raducanu as "talent of the century". Raducanu defeated Leylah Fernandez of Canada in the finals of the US Open to win her maiden Grand Slam.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has termed 18-year-old tennis player Emma Raducanu as "talent of the century". Raducanu defeated Leylah Fernandez of Canada in the finals of the US Open to win her maiden Grand Slam."I watched the final, and it was absolutely impressive. It`s been a long time since I watched a full women`s tennis game, to be honest, and I was really impressed by the power, speed, and the whole game. Women`s tennis is obviously in a brilliant moment," Goal.com quoted Fernandez as saying. "These two girls were 18 and 19, and what they showed was massively impressive. Both during the game itself, and then during the trophy ceremony. Both girls, how they spoke, at 18 or 19, that was inspiring to be honest, even more so than the tennis! I was absolutely overwhelmed by the way the two girls presented themselves," he added. Further talking about Raducanu, Klopp said: "That`s what you can take from it. If you are 18 years old and you win the US Open, there is one thing that has obviously happened in the last 10-15 years; hard work. She is for sure the talent of the century, but without hard work, it is not possible to be there." "To see her there and smiling during the game, it really was the nicest thing I could imagine. I will for sure watch women`s tennis much more now than I did in the last few years," he added.US Open champion Emma Raducanu jumped 127 spots in this week`s WTA Rankings, moving from No. 150 to No. 23, while runner-up at New York, Leylah Fernandez moved to No. 28.For the first time in six years, Britain has a new top player in Emma Raducanu. The teenager started the year at No. 345 (11 best among British women), but her ranking has been on a rapid climb in the past three months. The Briton has won 21 of her past 25 matches. After reaching the fourth round at Wimbledon as a wildcard, Raducanu`s ranking improved from No.338 to No.179, helping her secure a spot in qualifying at the US Open.By winning the US Open as a qualifier, Raducanu earned 2,040 points and jumped 127 spots to No. 23. She also overtakes Johanna Konta as the highest-ranked woman from Britain.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp terms US Open champion Emma Raducanu as 'talent of the century'

When BCCI announced Team India's 15-man squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup, in the UAE, there were some surprise additions and notable omissions. However, the biggest talking point became former captain MS Dhoni's inclusion as the team mentor for the showpiece event.

Dhoni, who retired from international cricket on August 15, 2020, has been roped in as team mentor for the marquee tournament to help Kohli &amp; Co. during the high-voltage event and guide the national side to their first ICC title win in over 8 years. For the unversed, Team India's last ICC trophy came in the 2013 Champions Trophy under Dhoni's leadership.

Under Kohli, India have performed exceedingly well across formats and in the last three ICC events, however, they haven't managed to win big tournaments in the recent past. Hence, Dhoni has been added to work closely with Kohli and head coach Ravi Shastri. Since his appointment, many former cricketers have shared their thoughts on him taking over as the team mentor.

In this regard, former cricketer Farokh Engineer also revealed what he feels seeing Dhoni as the team mentor, while speaking to Sports Tak.&nbsp;"But why not? IPL has mentors. Dhoni has always and still has got the Midas touch and whatever he has touched has turned into gold. I would hope that Dhoni brings us extra luck and I'm sure his knowledge would be extremely useful," Engineer was quoted as saying.&nbsp;

"What does a mentor do? It's an honorary thing. Sachin Tendulkar is the mentor of Mumbai Indians. And it’s lovely to have guys like him and Sachin around. In our time, once you give up the game, people forgot us. But today, fans do not forget. If you're a good and attractive cricketers, fans will always remember you," he added.&nbsp;

The former Indian wicketkeeper feels that Captain Cool's experience will certainly be a great inspiration to the Men in Blue and is content with BCCI's decision to use his experience and stature. "At this level, players are not coached. A coach can help you and guide you just a little bit – somethings here and there or on some technical aspects," he further opined. Engineer added, "Dhoni is not the type to interfere with something or somebody. If he sees that something could be done better, I'm sure he would suggest it in a very clever way to Ravi and Virat."

It will be interesting to see Dhoni's return back to the Indian dressing room and if his presence will prove to be the difference for Kohli &amp; Co. India start their campaign on October 24 versus Pakistan. They are placed in Group 2, along with the Men in Green, New Zealand, Afghanistan and two more teams who will join post the qualifiers.&nbsp;

When BCCI announced Team India's 15-man squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup, in the UAE, there were some surprise additions and notable omissions. However, the biggest talking point became former captain MS Dhoni's inclusion as the team mentor for the showpiece event.

When BCCI announced Team India's 15-man squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup, in the UAE, there were some surprise additions and notable omissions. However, the biggest talking point became former captain MS Dhoni's inclusion as the team mentor for the showpiece event. Dhoni, who retired from international cricket on August 15, 2020, has been roped in as team mentor for the marquee tournament to help Kohli & Co. during the high-voltage event and guide the national side to their first ICC title win in over 8 years. For the unversed, Team India's last ICC trophy came in the 2013 Champions Trophy under Dhoni's leadership. Under Kohli, India have performed exceedingly well across formats and in the last three ICC events, however, they haven't managed to win big tournaments in the recent past. Hence, Dhoni has been added to work closely with Kohli and head coach Ravi Shastri. Since his appointment, many former cricketers have shared their thoughts on him taking over as the team mentor. In this regard, former cricketer Farokh Engineer also revealed what he feels seeing Dhoni as the team mentor, while speaking to Sports Tak. "But why not? IPL has mentors. Dhoni has always and still has got the Midas touch and whatever he has touched has turned into gold. I would hope that Dhoni brings us extra luck and I'm sure his knowledge would be extremely useful," Engineer was quoted as saying. "What does a mentor do? It's an honorary thing. Sachin Tendulkar is the mentor of Mumbai Indians. And it’s lovely to have guys like him and Sachin around. In our time, once you give up the game, people forgot us. But today, fans do not forget. If you're a good and attractive cricketers, fans will always remember you," he added. The former Indian wicketkeeper feels that Captain Cool's experience will certainly be a great inspiration to the Men in Blue and is content with BCCI's decision to use his experience and stature. "At this level, players are not coached. A coach can help you and guide you just a little bit – somethings here and there or on some technical aspects," he further opined. Engineer added, "Dhoni is not the type to interfere with something or somebody. If he sees that something could be done better, I'm sure he would suggest it in a very clever way to Ravi and Virat." It will be interesting to see Dhoni's return back to the Indian dressing room and if his presence will prove to be the difference for Kohli & Co. India start their campaign on October 24 versus Pakistan. They are placed in Group 2, along with the Men in Green, New Zealand, Afghanistan and two more teams who will join post the qualifiers.

'MS Dhoni still has got....' - Farokh Engineer opines on why BCCI named former captain as Team India's mentor for T20 WC

U.S. Open champion Emma Raducanu said on Wednesday that her sensational win at Flushing Meadows had yet to sink in and that the 18 months she took off from the sport provided her with the "hunger" to prevail in New York. 
 
The 18-year-old Briton stunned the tennis world by defeating Canada`s Leylah Fernandez in straight sets on Saturday to become the first qualifier to capture a Grand Slam title. 
 
"I feel great. Everything that`s happened in the last 72 hours has been so much fun... it still hasn`t really sunk in, but occasionally I`ll remember that I won the U.S. Open. So yeah, a really funny feeling," she told the WTA website. 
 
Raducanu took a break from tennis last year due to the pandemic and also because her parents insisted that she should complete her high school exams. "Having 18 months away... coming out you play every match like you don`t know when your last match will be. That was how I was approaching the whole summer... But the biggest thing is that I never once got ahead of myself," she said. 
 
"For three weeks I just played the opponent in front of me, I took care of what I wanted to try and achieve on that day against that opponent, and just repeated it for three weeks." 
 
Raducanu has made a string of public appearances since her win last weekend, the most high-profile being at the Met Gala in New York on Monday. The teenager called her red-carpet experience "eye-opening", adding: "At the Met Gala everyone is so experienced and so accomplished in their own way and it was really cool to hear how they are and their perspective on things." 
 
For now, Raducanu said that she planned to switch off from tennis following an intense few weeks and was not entirely sure when her next tournament would be. "I think for me, still, I cherish the most the moments with the team after the win... that was probably the most special night ever, when we were reflecting... I know I`ll get back to work probably Monday or early next week... schedule-wise, I`m not sure," she added.

U.S. Open champion Emma Raducanu said on Wednesday that her sensational win at Flushing Meadows had yet to sink in and that the 18 months she took off from the sport provided her with the "hunger" to prevail in New York.

U.S. Open champion Emma Raducanu said on Wednesday that her sensational win at Flushing Meadows had yet to sink in and that the 18 months she took off from the sport provided her with the "hunger" to prevail in New York. The 18-year-old Briton stunned the tennis world by defeating Canada`s Leylah Fernandez in straight sets on Saturday to become the first qualifier to capture a Grand Slam title. "I feel great. Everything that`s happened in the last 72 hours has been so much fun... it still hasn`t really sunk in, but occasionally I`ll remember that I won the U.S. Open. So yeah, a really funny feeling," she told the WTA website. Raducanu took a break from tennis last year due to the pandemic and also because her parents insisted that she should complete her high school exams. "Having 18 months away... coming out you play every match like you don`t know when your last match will be. That was how I was approaching the whole summer... But the biggest thing is that I never once got ahead of myself," she said. "For three weeks I just played the opponent in front of me, I took care of what I wanted to try and achieve on that day against that opponent, and just repeated it for three weeks." Raducanu has made a string of public appearances since her win last weekend, the most high-profile being at the Met Gala in New York on Monday. The teenager called her red-carpet experience "eye-opening", adding: "At the Met Gala everyone is so experienced and so accomplished in their own way and it was really cool to hear how they are and their perspective on things." For now, Raducanu said that she planned to switch off from tennis following an intense few weeks and was not entirely sure when her next tournament would be. "I think for me, still, I cherish the most the moments with the team after the win... that was probably the most special night ever, when we were reflecting... I know I`ll get back to work probably Monday or early next week... schedule-wise, I`m not sure," she added.

U.S. Open victory yet to sink in, says teen sensation Emma Raducanu

Virat Kohli's batting struggles have been known to world cricket by now. The 32-year-old Kohli hasn't scored an international ton since late 2019. Since then, the Indian captain has crossed the fifty-run mark on several occasions across formats, but&nbsp;he hasn't converted any of them into a daddy hundred.&nbsp;

Amid his dip in form, many former cricketers and experts are of the opinion that it is time to see split-captaincy in Team India, with Kohli making way for Rohit Sharma in the shorter formats and rediscovering his form overall. However, former Indian skipper Kapil Dev feels Kohli's lean phase isn't due to captaincy pressure.&nbsp;

"For all these years, when he was scoring runs, no one said anything about captaincy affecting Virat's batting and now suddenly, there are opinions when there's been a little up and down in his graph. When he scored those double centuries and so many hundreds, wasn't there pressure then? It means that his captaincy should not be the focus. Instead, look at his ability," Kapil said on 'Uncut'.

"The graph has surely gone up and down but for how long? Age 28 to 32 is the time when you really blossom. He is now experienced and mature. If he returns to his old form, Virat will not only score a century or double ton; he will give you 300. He is so much mature now and there is no shortage of fitness when it comes to Kohli. He just needs to identify himself and look to score big," he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-ms-dhonis-inclusion-as-mentor-is-huge-boost-to-virat-kohli-and-finishers-in-t20-world-cup-squad-manoj-tiwary-412018">EXCLUSIVE | MS Dhoni's inclusion as mentor is huge boost to Virat Kohli and finishers in T20 World Cup squad: Manoj Tiwary</a>

Despite much success in bilateral series across formats, Captain Kohli is facing the heat for not leading India to any ICC title since taking over as full-time captain in early 2017. In addition, his scratchy form hasn't helped his case in recent times. If he can lead India to the T20 World Cup title, courtesy some sparking performances with the bat, Kohli will silence his critics in style.

Virat Kohli's batting struggles have been known to world cricket by now. The 32-year-old Kohli hasn't scored an international ton since late 2019. Since then, the Indian captain has crossed the fifty-run mark on several occasions across formats, but he hasn't converted any of them into a daddy hundred.

Virat Kohli's batting struggles have been known to world cricket by now. The 32-year-old Kohli hasn't scored an international ton since late 2019. Since then, the Indian captain has crossed the fifty-run mark on several occasions across formats, but he hasn't converted any of them into a daddy hundred. Amid his dip in form, many former cricketers and experts are of the opinion that it is time to see split-captaincy in Team India, with Kohli making way for Rohit Sharma in the shorter formats and rediscovering his form overall. However, former Indian skipper Kapil Dev feels Kohli's lean phase isn't due to captaincy pressure. "For all these years, when he was scoring runs, no one said anything about captaincy affecting Virat's batting and now suddenly, there are opinions when there's been a little up and down in his graph. When he scored those double centuries and so many hundreds, wasn't there pressure then? It means that his captaincy should not be the focus. Instead, look at his ability," Kapil said on 'Uncut'. "The graph has surely gone up and down but for how long? Age 28 to 32 is the time when you really blossom. He is now experienced and mature. If he returns to his old form, Virat will not only score a century or double ton; he will give you 300. He is so much mature now and there is no shortage of fitness when it comes to Kohli. He just needs to identify himself and look to score big," he added. ALSO READ | EXCLUSIVE | MS Dhoni's inclusion as mentor is huge boost to Virat Kohli and finishers in T20 World Cup squad: Manoj Tiwary Despite much success in bilateral series across formats, Captain Kohli is facing the heat for not leading India to any ICC title since taking over as full-time captain in early 2017. In addition, his scratchy form hasn't helped his case in recent times. If he can lead India to the T20 World Cup title, courtesy some sparking performances with the bat, Kohli will silence his critics in style.

Virat Kohli's dip in form isn't because of captaincy pressure, feels former skipper Kapil Dev

The cricketing fraternity is eagerly waiting for the commencement of the upcoming T20 World Cup, to be held in the UAE soon after IPL 14's conclusion. While there is still a month left for the marquee event to kick off, there is plenty of excitement among the ardent cricket fans to see some top teams compete against each other for the biggest title in the shortest format of the game.&nbsp;

Talking about India, the Virat Kohli-led team is placed in Group 2, along with arch-rivals Pakistan, New Zealand, Afghanistan and will be joined by two more teams from the qualifiers. Being the No. 2 ranked side in the format, Kohli &amp; Co. are one of the strongest contenders to return with the title. However, they will have to start well as they face Babar Azam-led Pakistan in their opening encounter, on October 24 at Dubai.&nbsp;

Ahead of the marquee clash, Gautam Gambhir -- who was an integral part of MS Dhoni-led India's victorious campaign in the inaugural T20 World Cup in 2007 -- shared his India XI versus the Men in Green, while speaking on Star Sports' show Follow the Blues.

Gambhir's XI comprises KL Rahul, vice-captain Rohit Sharma as openers with Captain Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav filling the top four. Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Bhuvneshwar Kumar comprise Gambhir's lower-order whereas Varun Chakravarthy is the lone-spinner along with pacers Mohammed Shami and Jasprit Bumrah as the pacers (along with Hardik and Bhuvi). However, the former Indian opener's XI had no place for R Ashwin.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<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">How Rohit Sharma's backing led to R Ashwin's inclusion in Virat Kohli-led India's T20 World Cup squad: Reports</a>

For the unversed, Ashwin has been named in India's 15-man squad for the mega event whereas Dhoni will join the team as the mentor for the big-ticket tournament.

Gautam Gambhir's playing XI for Pakistan fixture:&nbsp;Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Varun Chakravarthy, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah

The cricketing fraternity is eagerly waiting for the commencement of the upcoming T20 World Cup, to be held in the UAE soon after IPL 14's conclusion. While there is still a month left for the marquee event to kick off, there is plenty of excitement among the ardent cricket fans to see some top teams compete against each other for the biggest title in the shortest format of the game.

The cricketing fraternity is eagerly waiting for the commencement of the upcoming T20 World Cup, to be held in the UAE soon after IPL 14's conclusion. While there is still a month left for the marquee event to kick off, there is plenty of excitement among the ardent cricket fans to see some top teams compete against each other for the biggest title in the shortest format of the game. Talking about India, the Virat Kohli-led team is placed in Group 2, along with arch-rivals Pakistan, New Zealand, Afghanistan and will be joined by two more teams from the qualifiers. Being the No. 2 ranked side in the format, Kohli & Co. are one of the strongest contenders to return with the title. However, they will have to start well as they face Babar Azam-led Pakistan in their opening encounter, on October 24 at Dubai. Ahead of the marquee clash, Gautam Gambhir -- who was an integral part of MS Dhoni-led India's victorious campaign in the inaugural T20 World Cup in 2007 -- shared his India XI versus the Men in Green, while speaking on Star Sports' show Follow the Blues. Gambhir's XI comprises KL Rahul, vice-captain Rohit Sharma as openers with Captain Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav filling the top four. Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Bhuvneshwar Kumar comprise Gambhir's lower-order whereas Varun Chakravarthy is the lone-spinner along with pacers Mohammed Shami and Jasprit Bumrah as the pacers (along with Hardik and Bhuvi). However, the former Indian opener's XI had no place for R Ashwin. ALSO READ | How Rohit Sharma's backing led to R Ashwin's inclusion in Virat Kohli-led India's T20 World Cup squad: Reports For the unversed, Ashwin has been named in India's 15-man squad for the mega event whereas Dhoni will join the team as the mentor for the big-ticket tournament. Gautam Gambhir's playing XI for Pakistan fixture: Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Varun Chakravarthy, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah

T20 World Cup: Varun Chakravarthy pips R Ashwin in Gautam Gambhir's India XI for marquee face-off vs Pakistan

Not many had hopes from MS Dhoni-led Team India when they commenced their journey in the inaugural T20 World Cup, in South Africa in 2007. However, Dhoni &amp; Co. created history and stunned the cricketing fraternity by winning the inaugural title, beating Pakistan in the tournament-finale in Johannesburg on September 24.

The Men in Blue defeated the likes of England, South Africa, Australia and Pakistan (twice) to be crowned as the T20 WC champions in the 2007 edition and will now hope to win their second title when the upcoming T20 World Cup starts in the UAE, from October 19.

Ahead of the mega event and IPL 14's final leg, in the UAE, Chennai Super Kings (CSK)'s Robin Uthappa recalled a master move from Dhoni during the 2007 T20 WC clash between India and South Africa. Both sides had locked horns in the Super Eight stage, which was a virtual quarter-final, where India beat the Proteas by 37 runs to book a place in the semis.

Recalling how Dhoni planned Graeme Smith's dismissal, Uthappa told on the 22 Yarns With Gaurav Kapoor podcast recently, "Just the ball before (Graeme Smith's dismissal)... , MS Dhoni moved (Dinesh) Karthik from third slip to a fielding position between fourth slip and gully. The very next ball the DK took that catch. It's nuts. I don't know how he(MS Dhoni) does that. I think he is one guy who is truest to his instincts."

Uthappa also spoke regarding the last over of the 2007 T20 WC, where Joginder Sharma defended 13 runs versus Pakistan to lead India to a memorable win. "The choice was between Joginder Sharma and Harbhajan Singh for the last over. At the time, Joginder put his hand up, and MS also backed his instinct and gave the ball to the one who wanted to bowl. That's what Mahi did the whole tournament, he just backed his instincts. Joginder was obviously nervous."

"Sreesanth had astigmatism and the lens we got in 2007 wasn't of great quality at that time. We were just hoping that Sreesanth wore his lens as he used to drop catches when not wearing. But it was all destiny, the way he took that catch," he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-ms-dhonis-inclusion-as-mentor-is-huge-boost-to-virat-kohli-and-finishers-in-t20-world-cup-squad-manoj-tiwary-412018">EXCLUSIVE | MS Dhoni's inclusion as mentor is huge boost to Virat Kohli and finishers in T20 World Cup squad: Manoj Tiwary</a>

Talking about the forthcoming T20 WC, Virat Kohli-led India will be eager to replicate the 2007 success and lead the country to their second title in the shortest format. India are placed in Group 2, along with Pakistan, New Zealand, Afghanistan and two other teams who will join from the qualifiers. In addition, Dhoni will join the Indian team as the mentor for the showpiece event.

Not many had hopes from MS Dhoni-led Team India when they commenced their journey in the inaugural T20 World Cup, in South Africa in 2007. However, Dhoni & Co. created history and stunned the cricketing fraternity by winning the inaugural title, beating Pakistan in the tournament-finale in Johannesburg on September 24.

Not many had hopes from MS Dhoni-led Team India when they commenced their journey in the inaugural T20 World Cup, in South Africa in 2007. However, Dhoni & Co. created history and stunned the cricketing fraternity by winning the inaugural title, beating Pakistan in the tournament-finale in Johannesburg on September 24. The Men in Blue defeated the likes of England, South Africa, Australia and Pakistan (twice) to be crowned as the T20 WC champions in the 2007 edition and will now hope to win their second title when the upcoming T20 World Cup starts in the UAE, from October 19. Ahead of the mega event and IPL 14's final leg, in the UAE, Chennai Super Kings (CSK)'s Robin Uthappa recalled a master move from Dhoni during the 2007 T20 WC clash between India and South Africa. Both sides had locked horns in the Super Eight stage, which was a virtual quarter-final, where India beat the Proteas by 37 runs to book a place in the semis. Recalling how Dhoni planned Graeme Smith's dismissal, Uthappa told on the 22 Yarns With Gaurav Kapoor podcast recently, "Just the ball before (Graeme Smith's dismissal)... , MS Dhoni moved (Dinesh) Karthik from third slip to a fielding position between fourth slip and gully. The very next ball the DK took that catch. It's nuts. I don't know how he(MS Dhoni) does that. I think he is one guy who is truest to his instincts." Uthappa also spoke regarding the last over of the 2007 T20 WC, where Joginder Sharma defended 13 runs versus Pakistan to lead India to a memorable win. "The choice was between Joginder Sharma and Harbhajan Singh for the last over. At the time, Joginder put his hand up, and MS also backed his instinct and gave the ball to the one who wanted to bowl. That's what Mahi did the whole tournament, he just backed his instincts. Joginder was obviously nervous." "Sreesanth had astigmatism and the lens we got in 2007 wasn't of great quality at that time. We were just hoping that Sreesanth wore his lens as he used to drop catches when not wearing. But it was all destiny, the way he took that catch," he added. ALSO READ | EXCLUSIVE | MS Dhoni's inclusion as mentor is huge boost to Virat Kohli and finishers in T20 World Cup squad: Manoj Tiwary Talking about the forthcoming T20 WC, Virat Kohli-led India will be eager to replicate the 2007 success and lead the country to their second title in the shortest format. India are placed in Group 2, along with Pakistan, New Zealand, Afghanistan and two other teams who will join from the qualifiers. In addition, Dhoni will join the Indian team as the mentor for the showpiece event.

'Don't know how he does it' - Robin Uthappa recalls MS Dhoni's masterplan during India-South Africa 2007 T20 World Cup tie

Rohit Sharma was undoubtedly one of the best batsmen from Team India in the England Tests, in the United Kingdom. While the Indian opener has always been regarded as a limited-overs specialist, the 34-year-old has come to his own in his second innings in Test cricket ever since he was promoted as an opener in late 2019.

Playing his first series as an opener in England, Rohit showed great character and temperament to leave the balls outside off stump, curb his natural aggressive style of play and time his innings perfectly, versus the disciplined English bowling line-up. As a result, he ended the series with two half-centuries and also registered his maiden overseas ton in whites.&nbsp;

Lavishing huge praise on Hitman, former Indian opener Aakash Chopra wrote in his coloumn for ESPNCricinfo, "It took courage to make the radical changes to his game that we saw him make in England. While Rohit batted the way he was expected to bat in India in Tests, he changed his game radically to meet the demands of English conditions. He went against his natural instinct, which is to attack at the first opportune moment."

'Rohit knew this English summer had the potential to define his legacy as a Test cricketer'

He added, "Rohit's attempt to play a totally different brand of cricket to that with which he got all his international success reflected two things: nurture is as influential as nature, if not more; and he has a burning desire to succeed in Tests. He knew that this English summer had the potential to define his legacy as a Test cricketer. And it is remarkable that standing at such a crucial juncture so far into his career, he had the conviction to remould his game so drastically that he looked like a different batter altogether," wrote Chopra.

"In England, this summer Rohit seems to have taken a giant leap towards writing his legacy, an effort born of his love for the longer format," he concluded.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/throwback-when-rohit-sharma-reacted-to-his-2011-odi-world-cup-omission-termed-it-as-big-setback-412925">Throwback: When Rohit Sharma reacted to his 2011 ODI World Cup omission, termed it as 'big setback'</a>

Given that Rohit plays in a free-flowing manner, the senior batsman made enough changes in his batting style to cement his place as a Test opener in Team India. His willingness to remould his game stands out and shows his hunger for success.&nbsp;

Rohit is currently in the UAE as he will lead Mumbai Indians (MI) in the final leg of IP 14, from September 19.

Rohit Sharma was undoubtedly one of the best batsmen from Team India in the England Tests, in the United Kingdom. While the Indian opener has always been regarded as a limited-overs specialist, the 34-year-old has come to his own in his second innings in Test cricket ever since he was promoted as an opener in late 2019.

Rohit Sharma was undoubtedly one of the best batsmen from Team India in the England Tests, in the United Kingdom. While the Indian opener has always been regarded as a limited-overs specialist, the 34-year-old has come to his own in his second innings in Test cricket ever since he was promoted as an opener in late 2019. Playing his first series as an opener in England, Rohit showed great character and temperament to leave the balls outside off stump, curb his natural aggressive style of play and time his innings perfectly, versus the disciplined English bowling line-up. As a result, he ended the series with two half-centuries and also registered his maiden overseas ton in whites. Lavishing huge praise on Hitman, former Indian opener Aakash Chopra wrote in his coloumn for ESPNCricinfo, "It took courage to make the radical changes to his game that we saw him make in England. While Rohit batted the way he was expected to bat in India in Tests, he changed his game radically to meet the demands of English conditions. He went against his natural instinct, which is to attack at the first opportune moment." 'Rohit knew this English summer had the potential to define his legacy as a Test cricketer' He added, "Rohit's attempt to play a totally different brand of cricket to that with which he got all his international success reflected two things: nurture is as influential as nature, if not more; and he has a burning desire to succeed in Tests. He knew that this English summer had the potential to define his legacy as a Test cricketer. And it is remarkable that standing at such a crucial juncture so far into his career, he had the conviction to remould his game so drastically that he looked like a different batter altogether," wrote Chopra. "In England, this summer Rohit seems to have taken a giant leap towards writing his legacy, an effort born of his love for the longer format," he concluded. ALSO READ | Throwback: When Rohit Sharma reacted to his 2011 ODI World Cup omission, termed it as 'big setback' Given that Rohit plays in a free-flowing manner, the senior batsman made enough changes in his batting style to cement his place as a Test opener in Team India. His willingness to remould his game stands out and shows his hunger for success. Rohit is currently in the UAE as he will lead Mumbai Indians (MI) in the final leg of IP 14, from September 19.

'Rohit Sharma knew the English summer had potential to....': Aakash Chopra lauds Indian opener's ability to remould his game

Virat Kohli-led India were on the cusp of winning their first-ever Test series on English soil, after a gap of 14 years,&nbsp;when the fifth and final Test got cancelled in the wake of Covid-19 crisis in the Indian camp. Now, the cricketers have joined their respective franchises as IPL 2021's second and final leg is set to commence from September 19 in the UAE.

While Kohli-led Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) will miss some of their key players in the final leg, they will hope to resume the season on a good note and win their first-ever IPL title. Currently, they are at the third spot in the points table. For them to do well and go the distance, Captain Kohli will have to score consistently. For the unversed, the 32-year-old Kohli hasn't been at his usual best since late 2019. While he hasn't scored an international ton since November 2019, he has registered fifty-plus scores across formats but hasn't been able to convert them into daddy hundreds.&nbsp;

Even in the first phase of IPL 14, Kohli amassed 198 runs in 7 matches at a strike-rate of 121.47, with one half-century. While he did some find form in the last two Tests versus England recently, it will be tough for him to adapt to the T20 format from Test cricket.

In this regard, Gautam Gambhir told on Star Sports' show 'Game Plan', "See there’s going to be a challenge for Virat and there’s going to be a huge challenge for AB de Villiers as well because he will be coming into the tournament without playing any cricket at all. Virat Kohli will have to adjust really quickly because there’ll be hardly any time for him to get used to it. From the five-Test-match series to the T20 format, and AB as well, because these guys need to get runs if they have to have a chance to first qualify for the playoffs and then probably go on to win the title."

RCB will resume their campaign in the final leg versus Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), on September 20 at Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi.

Will Kohli rediscover his form and take RCB to their first-ever IPL title? Only time will tell...

Virat Kohli-led India were on the cusp of winning their first-ever Test series on English soil, after a gap of 14 years, when the fifth and final Test got cancelled in the wake of Covid-19 crisis in the Indian camp.

Virat Kohli-led India were on the cusp of winning their first-ever Test series on English soil, after a gap of 14 years, when the fifth and final Test got cancelled in the wake of Covid-19 crisis in the Indian camp. Now, the cricketers have joined their respective franchises as IPL 2021's second and final leg is set to commence from September 19 in the UAE. While Kohli-led Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) will miss some of their key players in the final leg, they will hope to resume the season on a good note and win their first-ever IPL title. Currently, they are at the third spot in the points table. For them to do well and go the distance, Captain Kohli will have to score consistently. For the unversed, the 32-year-old Kohli hasn't been at his usual best since late 2019. While he hasn't scored an international ton since November 2019, he has registered fifty-plus scores across formats but hasn't been able to convert them into daddy hundreds. Even in the first phase of IPL 14, Kohli amassed 198 runs in 7 matches at a strike-rate of 121.47, with one half-century. While he did some find form in the last two Tests versus England recently, it will be tough for him to adapt to the T20 format from Test cricket. In this regard, Gautam Gambhir told on Star Sports' show 'Game Plan', "See there’s going to be a challenge for Virat and there’s going to be a huge challenge for AB de Villiers as well because he will be coming into the tournament without playing any cricket at all. Virat Kohli will have to adjust really quickly because there’ll be hardly any time for him to get used to it. From the five-Test-match series to the T20 format, and AB as well, because these guys need to get runs if they have to have a chance to first qualify for the playoffs and then probably go on to win the title." RCB will resume their campaign in the final leg versus Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), on September 20 at Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi. Will Kohli rediscover his form and take RCB to their first-ever IPL title? Only time will tell...

'Virat Kohli will have to...' - Gautam Gambhir makes bold claim on RCB captain's form ahead of IPL 2021 UAE leg

US Open champion Emma Raducanu jumped 127 spots in this week`s WTA Rankings, moving from No. 150 to No. 23, while runner-up at New York, Leylah Fernandez moved to No. 28. For the first time in six years, Britain has a new top player in Emma Raducanu. The teenager started the year at No. 345 (11 best among British women), but her ranking has been on a rapid climb in the past three months.

The Briton has won 21 of her past 25 matches. After reaching the fourth round at Wimbledon as a wildcard, Raducanu`s ranking improved from No.338 to No.179, helping her secure a spot in qualifying at the US Open. By winning the US Open as a qualifier, Raducanu earned 2,040 points and jumped 127 spots to No. 23. She also overtakes Johanna Konta as the highest-ranked woman from Britain. US Open runner-up Leylah Fernandez jumped 45 spots, climbing from No. 73 to No. 28.

Fernandez joins compatriot Bianca Andreescu (No. 20) in the Top 30, giving Canada two woman ranked in the Top 30 for the first time in 34 years. Ashleigh Barty and Aryna Sabalenka remain unchanged atop this week`s rankings, a quarter-final run pushes Karolina Pliskova up one spot to No. 3 and Elina Svitolina sits at Top 4. Barbora Krejcikova moved up two spots from No. 9 to No. 7. In doubles, Hsieh Su-Wei has returned to the top of the WTA Rankings, replacing Elise Mertens, who held the top spot for nine consecutive weeks.&nbsp;

US Open champion Emma Raducanu jumped 127 spots in this week`s WTA Rankings, moving from No. 150 to No. 23, while runner-up at New York, Leylah Fernandez moved to No.

US Open champion Emma Raducanu jumped 127 spots in this week`s WTA Rankings, moving from No. 150 to No. 23, while runner-up at New York, Leylah Fernandez moved to No. 28. For the first time in six years, Britain has a new top player in Emma Raducanu. The teenager started the year at No. 345 (11 best among British women), but her ranking has been on a rapid climb in the past three months. The Briton has won 21 of her past 25 matches. After reaching the fourth round at Wimbledon as a wildcard, Raducanu`s ranking improved from No.338 to No.179, helping her secure a spot in qualifying at the US Open. By winning the US Open as a qualifier, Raducanu earned 2,040 points and jumped 127 spots to No. 23. She also overtakes Johanna Konta as the highest-ranked woman from Britain. US Open runner-up Leylah Fernandez jumped 45 spots, climbing from No. 73 to No. 28. Fernandez joins compatriot Bianca Andreescu (No. 20) in the Top 30, giving Canada two woman ranked in the Top 30 for the first time in 34 years. Ashleigh Barty and Aryna Sabalenka remain unchanged atop this week`s rankings, a quarter-final run pushes Karolina Pliskova up one spot to No. 3 and Elina Svitolina sits at Top 4. Barbora Krejcikova moved up two spots from No. 9 to No. 7. In doubles, Hsieh Su-Wei has returned to the top of the WTA Rankings, replacing Elise Mertens, who held the top spot for nine consecutive weeks.

WTA Rankings: US Open champ Emma Raducanu jumps 127 spots to 23, Lelyah Fernandez breaks into top-30

Rohit Sharma's career changed emphatically post MS Dhoni-led team management giving him the opener's slot in the limited-overs formats in 2013. Since then, Hitman hasn't looked behind and has even come to his own in the purest format in recent times. He slammed his maiden overseas ton during the India-England Tests in the 2021 English summer before the tour got cancelled in the wake of Covid crisis in the Indian camp.

Rohit remains an integral part of the Indian team across formats and has made a huge name for himself in world cricket. However, not all were hunky dory for the right-hander in the initial phase of his career. For the unversed, the batsman wasn't part of Dhoni-led India's victorious campaign in the 2011 ODI World Cup. On not being picked in the squad for the marquee event, in the subcontinent, Rohit didn't hold back his feelings and expressed his disappointment on social media platform Twitter.&nbsp;

Back then, Rohit tweeted, "Really really disappointed of not being the part of the WC squad..I need to move on frm here..but honestly it was a big setback..any views!"

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Really really disappointed of not being the part of the WC squad..I need to move on frm here..but honestly it was a big setback..any views!
— Rohit Sharma (@ImRo45) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRo45/status/32090681300221954?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 31, 2011</a></blockquote>
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While Rohit missed out on being part of India's memorable run in the 2011 World Cup, where they defeated Sri Lanka by 6 wickets in the final to win their second title in the 50-over format, the right-hander was Virat Kohli-led India's best batsman, and highest run-getter overall, in the 2019 edition; amassing 648 runs with 5 hundreds.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/virat-kohli-will-remain-captain-bcci-treasurer-dismisses-rumours-of-rohit-sharma-taking-over-as-indias-limited-overs-skipper-412773">Virat Kohli will remain captain: BCCI treasurer dismisses rumours of Rohit Sharma taking over as India's limited-overs skipper</a>

Hitman will be desperate to guide India to their third ODI WC title in the 2023 edition, also to be held in India.&nbsp;

Rohit Sharma's career changed emphatically post MS Dhoni-led team management giving him the opener's slot in the limited-overs formats in 2013. Since then, Hitman hasn't looked behind and has even come to his own in the purest format in recent times.

Rohit Sharma's career changed emphatically post MS Dhoni-led team management giving him the opener's slot in the limited-overs formats in 2013. Since then, Hitman hasn't looked behind and has even come to his own in the purest format in recent times. He slammed his maiden overseas ton during the India-England Tests in the 2021 English summer before the tour got cancelled in the wake of Covid crisis in the Indian camp. Rohit remains an integral part of the Indian team across formats and has made a huge name for himself in world cricket. However, not all were hunky dory for the right-hander in the initial phase of his career. For the unversed, the batsman wasn't part of Dhoni-led India's victorious campaign in the 2011 ODI World Cup. On not being picked in the squad for the marquee event, in the subcontinent, Rohit didn't hold back his feelings and expressed his disappointment on social media platform Twitter. Back then, Rohit tweeted, "Really really disappointed of not being the part of the WC squad..I need to move on frm here..but honestly it was a big setback..any views!" Really really disappointed of not being the part of the WC squad..I need to move on frm here..but honestly it was a big setback..any views! — Rohit Sharma (@ImRo45) January 31, 2011 × While Rohit missed out on being part of India's memorable run in the 2011 World Cup, where they defeated Sri Lanka by 6 wickets in the final to win their second title in the 50-over format, the right-hander was Virat Kohli-led India's best batsman, and highest run-getter overall, in the 2019 edition; amassing 648 runs with 5 hundreds. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli will remain captain: BCCI treasurer dismisses rumours of Rohit Sharma taking over as India's limited-overs skipper Hitman will be desperate to guide India to their third ODI WC title in the 2023 edition, also to be held in India.

Throwback: When Rohit Sharma reacted to his 2011 ODI World Cup omission, termed it as 'big setback'

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