India were in deep trouble at 127-7 in the final session on Day 1 of the 4th Test versus England, after being asked to bat first. After Rishabh Pant's dismissal, the likes of Shardul Thakur, Jasprit Bumrah &amp; Co. were expected to take India's total beyond 150-175. However, it seemed an improbable task versus Chris Woakes, Ollie Robinson and the likes.

Nonetheless, Shardul -- who had also scored a stunning half-century in India's famous Gabba Test victory early in the year -- took on the English attack and played his strokes to all parts of the ground at The Oval, London. Some of his flicks and drives were top-class as he kept the scoreboard ticking and suddenly India found some momentum to cross the 175-run mark. Eventually, the visitors folded for a paltry 191 but the mood in the camp was quite positive following Shardul's vital 57.

For the unversed, Shardul slammed the fastest-ever fifty (in 31 balls) in Tests in England; breaking a 35-year-old record previously held by Ian Botham. Hence, he was lauded by the cricket fraternity for his explosive and fearless batting. Here are some of the reactions -

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Lord Thakur this innings: <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ENGvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ENGvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/cL7NV6Wyzq">pic.twitter.com/cL7NV6Wyzq</a>
— Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) <a href="https://twitter.com/WasimJaffer14/status/1433457018086387714?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Wowwwwww 
 
Batting is definitely not as easy as Shardul Thakur is making it ought to be 
 
Well played <a href="https://twitter.com/imShard?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imShard</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/lordthakur?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#lordthakur</a> <a href="https://t.co/x2VHQycLXh">pic.twitter.com/x2VHQycLXh</a>
— DK (@DineshKarthik) <a href="https://twitter.com/DineshKarthik/status/1433458055463772160?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Fastest Test fifty in England. Ever. Ever. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Lord?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Lord</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Shardul?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Shardul</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EngvInd?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EngvInd</a>
— Wear a Mask. Stay Safe, India (@cricketaakash) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketaakash/status/1433458509228613637?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://t.co/rrWyAyZWVp">pic.twitter.com/rrWyAyZWVp</a>
— निपुण महाजन (@NiPuN__045) <a href="https://twitter.com/NiPuN__045/status/1433458729567940613?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
We Call Him "LORD SHARDUL" For A Reason...Fearless &amp; Aggressive...Well Played <a href="https://twitter.com/imShard?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imShard</a>...<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LordShardul?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LordShardul</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ShardulThakur?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ShardulThakur</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ENGvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ENGvIND</a><a href="https://t.co/PsYueXD2WD">pic.twitter.com/PsYueXD2WD</a>
— Bitan Sangram (@IAmBitan45) <a href="https://twitter.com/IAmBitan45/status/1433459929252175880?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Shardul's 57 was laced with 7 fours and as many as 3 sixes, at a strike-rate of 158.33. Meanwhile, the Indian top and middle-order continued to struggle, barring Virat Kohli (50), as the likes of KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadeja failed to get going. Amid all this, all-rounder Shardul's whirlwind knock came as a huge surprise and took India near the 200-run mark.&nbsp;

The first day's play ended with England being 53-3, trailing India by 138 runs. While Jasprit Bumrah removed the openers, Umesh Yadav struck towards the fag end of the day to dismiss in-form English skipper Joe Root as the match remains wide open.

India were in deep trouble at 127-7 in the final session on Day 1 of the 4th Test versus England, after being asked to bat first. After Rishabh Pant's dismissal, the likes of Shardul Thakur, Jasprit Bumrah & Co.

India were in deep trouble at 127-7 in the final session on Day 1 of the 4th Test versus England, after being asked to bat first. After Rishabh Pant's dismissal, the likes of Shardul Thakur, Jasprit Bumrah & Co. were expected to take India's total beyond 150-175. However, it seemed an improbable task versus Chris Woakes, Ollie Robinson and the likes. Nonetheless, Shardul -- who had also scored a stunning half-century in India's famous Gabba Test victory early in the year -- took on the English attack and played his strokes to all parts of the ground at The Oval, London. Some of his flicks and drives were top-class as he kept the scoreboard ticking and suddenly India found some momentum to cross the 175-run mark. Eventually, the visitors folded for a paltry 191 but the mood in the camp was quite positive following Shardul's vital 57. For the unversed, Shardul slammed the fastest-ever fifty (in 31 balls) in Tests in England; breaking a 35-year-old record previously held by Ian Botham. Hence, he was lauded by the cricket fraternity for his explosive and fearless batting. Here are some of the reactions - Lord Thakur this innings: #ENGvIND pic.twitter.com/cL7NV6Wyzq — Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) September 2, 2021 × Wowwwwww Batting is definitely not as easy as Shardul Thakur is making it ought to be Well played @imShard #lordthakur pic.twitter.com/x2VHQycLXh — DK (@DineshKarthik) September 2, 2021 × Fastest Test fifty in England. Ever. Ever. #Lord #Shardul #EngvInd — Wear a Mask. Stay Safe, India (@cricketaakash) September 2, 2021 × pic.twitter.com/rrWyAyZWVp — निपुण महाजन (@NiPuN__045) September 2, 2021 × We Call Him "LORD SHARDUL" For A Reason...Fearless & Aggressive...Well Played @imShard...#LordShardul #ShardulThakur #ENGvINDpic.twitter.com/PsYueXD2WD — Bitan Sangram (@IAmBitan45) September 2, 2021 × Shardul's 57 was laced with 7 fours and as many as 3 sixes, at a strike-rate of 158.33. Meanwhile, the Indian top and middle-order continued to struggle, barring Virat Kohli (50), as the likes of KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadeja failed to get going. Amid all this, all-rounder Shardul's whirlwind knock came as a huge surprise and took India near the 200-run mark. The first day's play ended with England being 53-3, trailing India by 138 runs. While Jasprit Bumrah removed the openers, Umesh Yadav struck towards the fag end of the day to dismiss in-form English skipper Joe Root as the match remains wide open.

Cricket fraternity lauds Shardul Thakur as he slams fastest fifty in England on Day 1 of 4th Test

Television industry's superstar and actor Sidharth Shukla passed away on September 2&nbsp;(Thursday) in Mumbai following a heart attack. The 'Balika Vadhu' actor and 'Big Boss' 13 winner breathed his last in Mumbai's Cooper Hospital, leaving his ardent fans stunned and in a state of shock.&nbsp;

Sidharth was at the peak of his career and his shocking death has left the whole television and film fraternity in absolute disbelief. Several superstars such as Salman Khan, Akshay Kumar, Manoj Bajpayee and many from the tv industry poured their heart out on hearing his sudden demise. The 40-year-old actor is survived by his mother and two sisters.&nbsp;

Apart from acting, Sidharth was known to be a huge cricket fan and adored former Indian captain MS Dhoni. On August 15, 2020, Dhoni -- along with Suresh Raina -- had announced his international retirement; leaving many teary-eyed. His retirement also left a huge mark on Sidharth's life and the late actor had penned an emotional note for the former wicketkeeper-batsman.&nbsp;

Sidharth took to his official Twitter handle to laud Dhoni as a cricketer and wrote, "There will be a lot of players &amp; captains bt there can never b another #Dhoni..D man who always lead frm d front ..many play fr records you played to win and made records....India will miss you terribly.Thank you #MSDhoni &amp; #Raina for your immense contribution to Team India !"

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
There will be a lot of players &amp; captains bt there can never b another <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Dhoni?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Dhoni</a>..D man who always lead frm d front ..many play fr records you played to win and made records....India will miss you terribly.Thank you <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MSDhoni?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MSDhoni</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Raina?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Raina</a> for your immense contribution to Team India !
— Sidharth Shukla (@sidharth_shukla) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidharth_shukla/status/1294669616925442050?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Not only Sidharth, but Dhoni has left a mark on many individuals worldwide, who follow the gentlemen's game. The former player amassed 17,266 runs, accounted for 634 catches, 359 sixes, 195 stumpings and led India to all three ICC titles during his international career.

At present, Dhoni is leading the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) camp in the UAE ahead of the second and final leg of the IPL 2021 edition, which will commence from September 19.

Television industry's superstar and actor Sidharth Shukla passed away on September 2 (Thursday) in Mumbai following a heart attack. The 'Balika Vadhu' actor and 'Big Boss' 13 winner breathed his last in Mumbai's Cooper Hospital, leaving his ardent fans stunned and in a state of shock.

Television industry's superstar and actor Sidharth Shukla passed away on September 2 (Thursday) in Mumbai following a heart attack. The 'Balika Vadhu' actor and 'Big Boss' 13 winner breathed his last in Mumbai's Cooper Hospital, leaving his ardent fans stunned and in a state of shock. Sidharth was at the peak of his career and his shocking death has left the whole television and film fraternity in absolute disbelief. Several superstars such as Salman Khan, Akshay Kumar, Manoj Bajpayee and many from the tv industry poured their heart out on hearing his sudden demise. The 40-year-old actor is survived by his mother and two sisters. Apart from acting, Sidharth was known to be a huge cricket fan and adored former Indian captain MS Dhoni. On August 15, 2020, Dhoni -- along with Suresh Raina -- had announced his international retirement; leaving many teary-eyed. His retirement also left a huge mark on Sidharth's life and the late actor had penned an emotional note for the former wicketkeeper-batsman. Sidharth took to his official Twitter handle to laud Dhoni as a cricketer and wrote, "There will be a lot of players & captains bt there can never b another #Dhoni..D man who always lead frm d front ..many play fr records you played to win and made records....India will miss you terribly.Thank you #MSDhoni & #Raina for your immense contribution to Team India !" There will be a lot of players & captains bt there can never b another #Dhoni..D man who always lead frm d front ..many play fr records you played to win and made records....India will miss you terribly.Thank you #MSDhoni & #Raina for your immense contribution to Team India ! — Sidharth Shukla (@sidharth_shukla) August 15, 2020 × Not only Sidharth, but Dhoni has left a mark on many individuals worldwide, who follow the gentlemen's game. The former player amassed 17,266 runs, accounted for 634 catches, 359 sixes, 195 stumpings and led India to all three ICC titles during his international career. At present, Dhoni is leading the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) camp in the UAE ahead of the second and final leg of the IPL 2021 edition, which will commence from September 19.

Throwback: When late actor Sidharth Shukla penned a heartfelt note for MS Dhoni following his international retirement

Virat Kohli is synonymous&nbsp;to breaking records, on and off the field. While the 32-year-old Indian captain might not be going through his best phase with the bat for Team India, he still became the fastest to register 23,000 international runs during Day 1 of the fourth Test between India and England on Thursday (September 2), at Kennington Oval, London.

Ahead of the second day's play, Kohli attained another huge milestone as he became the first Asian, as well as the first cricketing celebrity, to touch the 150 million mark on Instagram. For the unversed,&nbsp;Kohli has now become the fourth among sporting celebrities&nbsp;to have&nbsp;reached the 150 million mark on the photo-blogging portal.

1) Cristiano Ronaldo - 337 million

2) Lionel Messi - 260 million

3) Neymar Jr - 160 million

<img alt="Virat Kohli Instagram followers touches 150million mark" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="10aa39b8-4039-4745-bc46-e6629b2c23ca" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Virat%20Kohli%20Instagram.jpg" />

Thus, Kohli continues to impress and leave his ardent fans absolutely stunned by his presence, both on and off the field. The Indian skipper is very active on social media platforms such as Instagram and Twitter, where he often shares workout videos, adorable posts with his wife Anushka Sharma and family members along with the promotion of various products he endorses, in return for a hefty amount.

Talking about Kohli-led India, the visitors will be desperate to wrap up England's first innings for cheap on Day 2 of the fourth Test on Friday (September 3). Losing the toss, India were asked to bat first but managed only a paltry 191 riding on half-centuries from Kohli (50) and Shardul Thakur (57).

The five-match series is currently levelled at 1-1.

Virat Kohli is synonymous to breaking records, on and off the field. While the 32-year-old Indian captain might not be going through his best phase with the bat for Team India, he still became the fastest to register 23,000 international runs during Day 1 of the fourth Test between India and England on Thursday (September 2), at Kennington Oval, London.

Virat Kohli is synonymous to breaking records, on and off the field. While the 32-year-old Indian captain might not be going through his best phase with the bat for Team India, he still became the fastest to register 23,000 international runs during Day 1 of the fourth Test between India and England on Thursday (September 2), at Kennington Oval, London. Ahead of the second day's play, Kohli attained another huge milestone as he became the first Asian, as well as the first cricketing celebrity, to touch the 150 million mark on Instagram. For the unversed, Kohli has now become the fourth among sporting celebrities to have reached the 150 million mark on the photo-blogging portal. 1) Cristiano Ronaldo - 337 million 2) Lionel Messi - 260 million 3) Neymar Jr - 160 million Thus, Kohli continues to impress and leave his ardent fans absolutely stunned by his presence, both on and off the field. The Indian skipper is very active on social media platforms such as Instagram and Twitter, where he often shares workout videos, adorable posts with his wife Anushka Sharma and family members along with the promotion of various products he endorses, in return for a hefty amount. Talking about Kohli-led India, the visitors will be desperate to wrap up England's first innings for cheap on Day 2 of the fourth Test on Friday (September 3). Losing the toss, India were asked to bat first but managed only a paltry 191 riding on half-centuries from Kohli (50) and Shardul Thakur (57). The five-match series is currently levelled at 1-1.

KING KOHLI synonymous to records! Virat Kohli becomes first Asian to touch 150 million followers on Instagram

Over the years, Team India have been blessed with some brilliant captains. Post the match-fixing scandal, Indian cricket was reinvented during the Sourav Ganguly-era. Under Ganguly, India started competing while playing overseas at regular intervals and reached the final of the 2003 World Cup.

Apart from this, India ended as joint-winners of the 2002 Champions Trophy, won the 2002 Natwest Trophy, Test series versus Pakistan (in 2004) in the neighbouring country and drew the away series in Australia and England. However, India didn't win ICC titles during the current BCCI President's captaincy tenure. India weren't regarded as one of the strongest teams, in terms of temperament needed for winning ICC or multi-nation finals.

Nonetheless, Ganguly backed a whole lot of youngsters such as Yuvraj Singh, Virender Sehwag, Mohammed Kaif, Irfan Pathan, Harbhajan Singh, Zaheer Khan, Ashish Nehra, MS Dhoni, etc. All of them made a mark in their respective careers and served the national side for long.

After Ganguly, and Rahul Dravid's tenure, MS Dhoni took over. His astute leadership skills, calm and composed nature and ability to switch between being aggressive and defensive in his tactics won praises from all corners. Under him, India won all ICC titles but slipped way behind in Tests while playing overseas. Moreover, while he did a fabulous job, half of the side he got was groomed by Ganguly-Dravid &amp; Co.

Recently, Virender Sehwag named the better captain among the two cricketers. He said on RJ Raunak's Youtube show "13 Jawab Nahi", "I feel captaincy-wise, both of them were great. But I feel the best amongst the two was Ganguly because he built the team from the onset, took in new players, and rebuilt a unit. He taught India to win matches abroad, we drew Test matches, won some abroad under him."

“Dhoni was lucky in the sense that he got the same team to lead that Ganguly had nurtured, so they both were great but better was Sourav Ganguly,” he added.

While opinions may differ and the debate might go on for long, it is safe to say both Ganguly and Dhoni deserve a lot of credit for taking India to the top since 2000.

Over the years, Team India have been blessed with some brilliant captains. Post the match-fixing scandal, Indian cricket was reinvented during the Sourav Ganguly-era.

Over the years, Team India have been blessed with some brilliant captains. Post the match-fixing scandal, Indian cricket was reinvented during the Sourav Ganguly-era. Under Ganguly, India started competing while playing overseas at regular intervals and reached the final of the 2003 World Cup. Apart from this, India ended as joint-winners of the 2002 Champions Trophy, won the 2002 Natwest Trophy, Test series versus Pakistan (in 2004) in the neighbouring country and drew the away series in Australia and England. However, India didn't win ICC titles during the current BCCI President's captaincy tenure. India weren't regarded as one of the strongest teams, in terms of temperament needed for winning ICC or multi-nation finals. Nonetheless, Ganguly backed a whole lot of youngsters such as Yuvraj Singh, Virender Sehwag, Mohammed Kaif, Irfan Pathan, Harbhajan Singh, Zaheer Khan, Ashish Nehra, MS Dhoni, etc. All of them made a mark in their respective careers and served the national side for long. After Ganguly, and Rahul Dravid's tenure, MS Dhoni took over. His astute leadership skills, calm and composed nature and ability to switch between being aggressive and defensive in his tactics won praises from all corners. Under him, India won all ICC titles but slipped way behind in Tests while playing overseas. Moreover, while he did a fabulous job, half of the side he got was groomed by Ganguly-Dravid & Co. Recently, Virender Sehwag named the better captain among the two cricketers. He said on RJ Raunak's Youtube show "13 Jawab Nahi", "I feel captaincy-wise, both of them were great. But I feel the best amongst the two was Ganguly because he built the team from the onset, took in new players, and rebuilt a unit. He taught India to win matches abroad, we drew Test matches, won some abroad under him." “Dhoni was lucky in the sense that he got the same team to lead that Ganguly had nurtured, so they both were great but better was Sourav Ganguly,” he added. While opinions may differ and the debate might go on for long, it is safe to say both Ganguly and Dhoni deserve a lot of credit for taking India to the top since 2000.

MS Dhoni or Sourav Ganguly? Former Team India opener Virender Sehwag picks better captain among the famed duo

Shardul Thakur hogged maximum limelight for Team India on Day 1 of the fourth Test versus England, at Kennington Oval, London. After being asked to bat first, Virat Kohli &amp; Co. were down and out at 120-7 before Shardul rose to the occasion with the bat and his fiery 57 propelled India to 191. While the score remains a paltry one, the visitors almost reached the 200-run mark riding on Shardul's counterattack.

Shardul's 57 was laced with 7 fours and as many as 3 sixes, at a whopping strike-rate of 158.33. At stumps on Day 1, England are on the back foot being 53-3 after Jasprit Bumrah's twin strikes and Umesh Yadav getting rid of Joe Root.&nbsp;

Following Shardul's fireworks, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra opined on his performances and how he has always contributed in some way for Team India in the recent past. Chopra feels the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) all-rounder is fighting hard for the all-rounder's slot for the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup.

On his Youtube channel, Chopra said, "He is not just scoring runs. He is asking you to pick him for the World T20 because he is bringing you that option. You obviously miss Hardik Pandya but if he is not there, Shardul Thakur is presenting himself as an option. Hardik might be a better batsman than him, no doubt, but he is a better bowler than Hardik. So he is saying that if you are searching for a package, he could be the guy."

He further stated, "When Rishabh Pant got out, I thought we are gone. But after that Shardul comes and shines. He did a fantastic job. Lord Shardul, again and again - Brisbane, he scored the runs. He was actually net bowler in that series but played the match, scored the runs and took wickets as well. Then in Nottingham, he got Root out in the first innings and Buttler in the second innings. He gives you the important wickets. Here you were 127/7 and he gave you a half-century in which he smashes the England bowlers quite a bit. You reach 191, it is just down to Shardul Thakur once again."

It will be interesting to see if Shardul gets picked in India's squad for the T20 World Cup, will be commence from October 19. For now, the all-rounder will like to continue in a similar stead and lead India to an unassailable 2-1 lead in the five-match Test series in the United Kingdom.

Shardul Thakur hogged maximum limelight for Team India on Day 1 of the fourth Test versus England, at Kennington Oval, London. After being asked to bat first, Virat Kohli & Co.

Shardul Thakur hogged maximum limelight for Team India on Day 1 of the fourth Test versus England, at Kennington Oval, London. After being asked to bat first, Virat Kohli & Co. were down and out at 120-7 before Shardul rose to the occasion with the bat and his fiery 57 propelled India to 191. While the score remains a paltry one, the visitors almost reached the 200-run mark riding on Shardul's counterattack. Shardul's 57 was laced with 7 fours and as many as 3 sixes, at a whopping strike-rate of 158.33. At stumps on Day 1, England are on the back foot being 53-3 after Jasprit Bumrah's twin strikes and Umesh Yadav getting rid of Joe Root. Following Shardul's fireworks, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra opined on his performances and how he has always contributed in some way for Team India in the recent past. Chopra feels the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) all-rounder is fighting hard for the all-rounder's slot for the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup. On his Youtube channel, Chopra said, "He is not just scoring runs. He is asking you to pick him for the World T20 because he is bringing you that option. You obviously miss Hardik Pandya but if he is not there, Shardul Thakur is presenting himself as an option. Hardik might be a better batsman than him, no doubt, but he is a better bowler than Hardik. So he is saying that if you are searching for a package, he could be the guy." He further stated, "When Rishabh Pant got out, I thought we are gone. But after that Shardul comes and shines. He did a fantastic job. Lord Shardul, again and again - Brisbane, he scored the runs. He was actually net bowler in that series but played the match, scored the runs and took wickets as well. Then in Nottingham, he got Root out in the first innings and Buttler in the second innings. He gives you the important wickets. Here you were 127/7 and he gave you a half-century in which he smashes the England bowlers quite a bit. You reach 191, it is just down to Shardul Thakur once again." It will be interesting to see if Shardul gets picked in India's squad for the T20 World Cup, will be commence from October 19. For now, the all-rounder will like to continue in a similar stead and lead India to an unassailable 2-1 lead in the five-match Test series in the United Kingdom.

He's asking Virat Kohli & Co. to pick him for T20 WC: Aakash Chopra on Shardul Thakur's fiery 57 in 4th Test

Tokyo Paralympics has so far been a huge success. However, there was a shocking turn of events as Malaysia's Ziyad&nbsp;Zolkefli was denied of his gold medal for arriving three minutes late for the shot put final event in the F20 class.

The International Paralympic Committee spokesman Craig Spence revealed that Zolkefli along with two others who&nbsp;did not reach the podium were allowed to compete under protest after they failed to appear at the scheduled time for the event.

"They were late, they may have had a logical reason for being late, and therefore we allowed them to compete and look at the facts of the matter afterward,” Spence said as per a report in The Guardian. On the other hand, a&nbsp;statement from World Para Athletics stated that a referee had revealed that “there was no justifiable reason for the athletes’ failure to report” on time.&nbsp;

Following the unfortunate turn of events for Ziyad, his disqualification served as a huge gain for Ukraine's Maksym Koval who ended up securing&nbsp;gold whereas his Ukrainian&nbsp;teammate Oleksandr Yarovyi took silver. Meanwhile, Greece's Efstratios Nikolaidis ended at the third spot with a bronze medal.

Severe heat on social media platforms

Spence further revealed, "We are now seeing comments on all our social media posts that have nothing to do with the men’s shot put F20 event." In addition, he stated that the Ukrainian Paralympic Committee “was getting a lot of abuse from Malaysians" post what happened with Ziyad.

Spence added, "I’m sorry. Rules are rules. The decision was taken. It wasn’t the Ukrainians’ fault that the Malaysian was late. Others get there five minutes early."

He revealed that the excuse given was that the Malaysian athlete Ziyad and two others defended themselves by saying that they didn't hear the announcement or it was in a language they didn't understand for their late arrival. Following the episode, reactions have come in from all corners with many sympathising with the Malaysian athlete Ziyad.

Talking about the medal tally, China continues to top the overall standings whereas Ukraine finds itself at the 5th spot following Ziyad's disqualification.

Tokyo Paralympics has so far been a huge success. However, there was a shocking turn of events as Malaysia's Ziyad Zolkefli was denied of his gold medal for arriving three minutes late for the shot put final event in the F20 class.

Tokyo Paralympics has so far been a huge success. However, there was a shocking turn of events as Malaysia's Ziyad Zolkefli was denied of his gold medal for arriving three minutes late for the shot put final event in the F20 class. The International Paralympic Committee spokesman Craig Spence revealed that Zolkefli along with two others who did not reach the podium were allowed to compete under protest after they failed to appear at the scheduled time for the event. "They were late, they may have had a logical reason for being late, and therefore we allowed them to compete and look at the facts of the matter afterward,” Spence said as per a report in The Guardian. On the other hand, a statement from World Para Athletics stated that a referee had revealed that “there was no justifiable reason for the athletes’ failure to report” on time. Following the unfortunate turn of events for Ziyad, his disqualification served as a huge gain for Ukraine's Maksym Koval who ended up securing gold whereas his Ukrainian teammate Oleksandr Yarovyi took silver. Meanwhile, Greece's Efstratios Nikolaidis ended at the third spot with a bronze medal. Severe heat on social media platforms Spence further revealed, "We are now seeing comments on all our social media posts that have nothing to do with the men’s shot put F20 event." In addition, he stated that the Ukrainian Paralympic Committee “was getting a lot of abuse from Malaysians" post what happened with Ziyad. Spence added, "I’m sorry. Rules are rules. The decision was taken. It wasn’t the Ukrainians’ fault that the Malaysian was late. Others get there five minutes early." He revealed that the excuse given was that the Malaysian athlete Ziyad and two others defended themselves by saying that they didn't hear the announcement or it was in a language they didn't understand for their late arrival. Following the episode, reactions have come in from all corners with many sympathising with the Malaysian athlete Ziyad. Talking about the medal tally, China continues to top the overall standings whereas Ukraine finds itself at the 5th spot following Ziyad's disqualification.

Tokyo Paralympics: Malaysia's Ziyad Zolkefli denied of gold for failing to report on time

It isn't an unknown fact that Afghanistan is going through a lot ever since the Taliban outfit took over from the government. While the whole country is facing a huge&nbsp;unrest, there is some good news for the Afghanistan national men's cricket team as they've got the approval from Taliban group to play a one-off Test versus Australia, in Hobart, later this year.

There was huge concern regarding the future of cricket in Afghanistan post Taliban's entry. However, the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) remained confident of the cricketing activities going ahead as earlier under the Taliban outfit and they have now received green signal to carry on with the Australia tour.&nbsp;

Hence, the forthcoming Test will be the first that Afghanistan will play since the Taliban's recent takeover. In this regard, the Cricket Australia (CA) has also claimed that the match was "well underway". "There is goodwill between CA and the Afghanistan Cricket Board to make the match happen, which immediately follows the ICC T20 World Cup in the UAE in which the Afghanistan team is due to play. CA will continue to work with the Australian and Tasmanian governments ahead of the Afghanistan team’s arrival planned for later this year," the spokesperson said.

Despite the Taliban outfit stating that they love cricket and won't interfere with the cricketing activities of the senior men's team, the fate of the more modest women's cricket programs remain a mystery as of now.

Talking about the one-off Test between Afghanistan and Australia, it will be held in Hobart from November 27.&nbsp;

This also puts an end the uncertainty which was surrounding Afghanistan in terms of their participation in the upcoming ICC Men's T20 World Cup, to be held from October 19 in the UAE.

It isn't an unknown fact that Afghanistan is going through a lot ever since the Taliban outfit took over from the government. While the whole country is facing a huge unrest, there is some good news for the Afghanistan national men's cricket team as they've got the approval from Taliban group to play a one-off Test versus Australia, in Hobart, later this year.

It isn't an unknown fact that Afghanistan is going through a lot ever since the Taliban outfit took over from the government. While the whole country is facing a huge unrest, there is some good news for the Afghanistan national men's cricket team as they've got the approval from Taliban group to play a one-off Test versus Australia, in Hobart, later this year. There was huge concern regarding the future of cricket in Afghanistan post Taliban's entry. However, the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) remained confident of the cricketing activities going ahead as earlier under the Taliban outfit and they have now received green signal to carry on with the Australia tour. Hence, the forthcoming Test will be the first that Afghanistan will play since the Taliban's recent takeover. In this regard, the Cricket Australia (CA) has also claimed that the match was "well underway". "There is goodwill between CA and the Afghanistan Cricket Board to make the match happen, which immediately follows the ICC T20 World Cup in the UAE in which the Afghanistan team is due to play. CA will continue to work with the Australian and Tasmanian governments ahead of the Afghanistan team’s arrival planned for later this year," the spokesperson said. Despite the Taliban outfit stating that they love cricket and won't interfere with the cricketing activities of the senior men's team, the fate of the more modest women's cricket programs remain a mystery as of now. Talking about the one-off Test between Afghanistan and Australia, it will be held in Hobart from November 27. This also puts an end the uncertainty which was surrounding Afghanistan in terms of their participation in the upcoming ICC Men's T20 World Cup, to be held from October 19 in the UAE.

Big boost to Afghanistan as national side receives green signal from Taliban to play one-off Test versus Australia

India's 2014 tour of England wasn't a good one for Virat Kohli by any means. He struggled for runs throughout and managed only 134 runs, at 13.40, in 5 Tests. James Anderson made Kohli his bunny and dominated proceedings versus the Indian batsman, who had no clue how to tackle the speedster.

Since then, Kohli versus Anderson rivalry remains the biggest talking point whenever India lock horns with England in the purest format of the game. While Kohli turned things around and kept Anderson at bay during India's 2018 tour of England, he is once again struggling for runs in Team India's ongoing Tests versus Joe Root &amp; Co. in their own backyard.

Ahead of the fourth and penultimate Test between India and England, veteran pacer James Anderson opened up on his rivalry with Kohli and what it means to his side to see the back of the Indian skipper as soon as possible.

Writing in his column for The Telegraph, Anderson opened up on his celebration which went viral after he dismissed Kohli for a golden duck in the series opener, at Trent Bridge, Nottingham. "When I got Kohli out in the first innings in Leeds there was a lot of emotion. It was the same as at Trent Bridge. I guess there is that extra something with him because he is such a good player and their captain as well. You see how much it means to him when his team takes a wicket so I want to show him what it means to us to get him out," he wrote.

Anderson has already dismissed Kohli on 7 occasions in Tests, joint-most along with Nathan Lyon, and will look to add to the Indian captain's struggles in the ongoing Tests. The fourth Test commences from September 2 (Thursday) at the Kennington Oval, London.

At present, the five-match Test series is levelled at 1-1 with two more games to play.

India's 2014 tour of England wasn't a good one for Virat Kohli by any means. He struggled for runs throughout and managed only 134 runs, at 13.40, in 5 Tests. James Anderson made Kohli his bunny and dominated proceedings versus the Indian batsman, who had no clue how to tackle the speedster.

India's 2014 tour of England wasn't a good one for Virat Kohli by any means. He struggled for runs throughout and managed only 134 runs, at 13.40, in 5 Tests. James Anderson made Kohli his bunny and dominated proceedings versus the Indian batsman, who had no clue how to tackle the speedster. Since then, Kohli versus Anderson rivalry remains the biggest talking point whenever India lock horns with England in the purest format of the game. While Kohli turned things around and kept Anderson at bay during India's 2018 tour of England, he is once again struggling for runs in Team India's ongoing Tests versus Joe Root & Co. in their own backyard. Ahead of the fourth and penultimate Test between India and England, veteran pacer James Anderson opened up on his rivalry with Kohli and what it means to his side to see the back of the Indian skipper as soon as possible. Writing in his column for The Telegraph, Anderson opened up on his celebration which went viral after he dismissed Kohli for a golden duck in the series opener, at Trent Bridge, Nottingham. "When I got Kohli out in the first innings in Leeds there was a lot of emotion. It was the same as at Trent Bridge. I guess there is that extra something with him because he is such a good player and their captain as well. You see how much it means to him when his team takes a wicket so I want to show him what it means to us to get him out," he wrote. Anderson has already dismissed Kohli on 7 occasions in Tests, joint-most along with Nathan Lyon, and will look to add to the Indian captain's struggles in the ongoing Tests. The fourth Test commences from September 2 (Thursday) at the Kennington Oval, London. At present, the five-match Test series is levelled at 1-1 with two more games to play.

Want to show Virat Kohli what it means to us to get him out: England's James Anderson opens up on rivalry with Indian skipper

Portugal skipper Cristiano Ronaldo scored his 110th international goal to surpass Iran legend Ali Daie`s tally as he broke the all-time men`s scoring record in their World Cup qualifying match against the Republic of Ireland on Wednesday (local time).Ronaldo first netted a goal in the dying minutes of the match to save the game and then fired another in the stoppage time as Portugal defeated the Republic of Ireland 2-1. With this goal, the five-time Ballon d`Or winner has now scored 111 international goals and is now leading the charts. Former footballer Daei scored 109 international goals during his 13-year long illustrious career. Ronaldo had earlier equalled the Iran legend`s record during Euro 2020.

Meanwhile, Ronaldo has revealed that Sir Alex Ferguson played a big role in roping the Portuguese striker for Manchester United. In his earlier stint with the Red Devils, Ronaldo led the side to three Premier League titles and the Champions League between 2003 and 2009, scoring 118 goals in 292 games under Alex Ferguson.

"As everybody knows, since I signed for Manchester United at 18, Sir Alex Ferguson was the key. I remember when we played against Manchester when I was at Sporting Lisbon. For me, Sir Alex Ferguson is like a father in football for me," Ronaldo told MUTV. "He helped me a lot, he taught me many things, and in my opinion, of course, he had a big role because of the relationship that we had, we keep in touch all the time, and he`s an unbelievable person. I really like him a lot and he was the main key for me to be in the position that I am, that I signed for Manchester United," he added. On Tuesday, the Premier League club confirmed that they have reached an agreement with Juventus for the transfer of Ronaldo, subject to agreement of personal terms, visa, and medical.&nbsp;

Portugal skipper Cristiano Ronaldo scored his 110th international goal to surpass Iran legend Ali Daie`s tally as he broke the all-time men`s scoring record in their World Cup qualifying match against the Republic of Ireland on Wednesday (local time).

Portugal skipper Cristiano Ronaldo scored his 110th international goal to surpass Iran legend Ali Daie`s tally as he broke the all-time men`s scoring record in their World Cup qualifying match against the Republic of Ireland on Wednesday (local time).Ronaldo first netted a goal in the dying minutes of the match to save the game and then fired another in the stoppage time as Portugal defeated the Republic of Ireland 2-1. With this goal, the five-time Ballon d`Or winner has now scored 111 international goals and is now leading the charts. Former footballer Daei scored 109 international goals during his 13-year long illustrious career. Ronaldo had earlier equalled the Iran legend`s record during Euro 2020. Meanwhile, Ronaldo has revealed that Sir Alex Ferguson played a big role in roping the Portuguese striker for Manchester United. In his earlier stint with the Red Devils, Ronaldo led the side to three Premier League titles and the Champions League between 2003 and 2009, scoring 118 goals in 292 games under Alex Ferguson. "As everybody knows, since I signed for Manchester United at 18, Sir Alex Ferguson was the key. I remember when we played against Manchester when I was at Sporting Lisbon. For me, Sir Alex Ferguson is like a father in football for me," Ronaldo told MUTV. "He helped me a lot, he taught me many things, and in my opinion, of course, he had a big role because of the relationship that we had, we keep in touch all the time, and he`s an unbelievable person. I really like him a lot and he was the main key for me to be in the position that I am, that I signed for Manchester United," he added. On Tuesday, the Premier League club confirmed that they have reached an agreement with Juventus for the transfer of Ronaldo, subject to agreement of personal terms, visa, and medical.

All hail CR7! Cristiano Ronaldo surpasses Ali Daie's tally, breaks all-time men's international scoring record

A lot has been said and written about split-captaincy in Team India, especially after Virat Kohli failed to guide India to the coveted title in the 2019 ODI World Cup. While India has had some good success under Kohli's leadership, the 32-year-old is yet to lead the national side to an ICC title since taking over as full-time captain in early 2017.

Under Kohli, India were on a roll in the 2017 Champions Trophy before losing the final to Pakistan. They topped the round-robin stage in the ODI World Cup, in 2019, before bowing out in the semi-finals and lost the inaugural ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final to New Zealand in mid-June 2021. Hence, many have time and again suggested for split-captaincy, with Rohit Sharma (who is the limited-overs vice-captain) taking over as the T20I captain and easing the workload on Kohli.

Even Test vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane's name cropped up to take over from Kohli in whites after India's WTC final loss. Under Rahane, a second-stringed Indian team had beaten Australia in their own backyard to win the Border-Gavaskar Trophy Down Under in early 2021.

Thus, head coach Ravi Shastri has finally opened up on the split-captaincy debate. "I am the coach of the team now, not a selector. Neither I'm a broadcaster. When my tenure as a coach ends then ask me and I will give my viewpoint. At this moment, I have to focus on the team and who is there in the team," Shastri told Times Now during the interaction.&nbsp;

"Yes, I am the coach. My team captain is Virat Kohli, vice-captain is Ajinkya Rahane. For one day international team, the captain is again Virat Kohli, vice-captain is Rohit Sharma, and they are doing extremely well. If you see the performance of the Indian team, tell me which other team has been this consistent in these 5 years. If not, then why speculate (who can become captain)? This team is doing well and I am happy," Shastri added.&nbsp;

Amid all talks around split-captaincy, Kohli is set to lead India in the forthcoming ICC T20 World Cup, in the UAE later this year. He will look to lead India to the championship, ending all such talks once and for all.

At present, Team India is involved in the five-match Test series versus England in the United Kingdom. Kohli &amp; Co. are gearing up to face the hosts in the fourth and penultimate Test, at Kennington Oval, London, from September 2 (Thursday), with the series currently levelled at 1-1.&nbsp;

A lot has been said and written about split-captaincy in Team India, especially after Virat Kohli failed to guide India to the coveted title in the 2019 ODI World Cup.

A lot has been said and written about split-captaincy in Team India, especially after Virat Kohli failed to guide India to the coveted title in the 2019 ODI World Cup. While India has had some good success under Kohli's leadership, the 32-year-old is yet to lead the national side to an ICC title since taking over as full-time captain in early 2017. Under Kohli, India were on a roll in the 2017 Champions Trophy before losing the final to Pakistan. They topped the round-robin stage in the ODI World Cup, in 2019, before bowing out in the semi-finals and lost the inaugural ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final to New Zealand in mid-June 2021. Hence, many have time and again suggested for split-captaincy, with Rohit Sharma (who is the limited-overs vice-captain) taking over as the T20I captain and easing the workload on Kohli. Even Test vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane's name cropped up to take over from Kohli in whites after India's WTC final loss. Under Rahane, a second-stringed Indian team had beaten Australia in their own backyard to win the Border-Gavaskar Trophy Down Under in early 2021. Thus, head coach Ravi Shastri has finally opened up on the split-captaincy debate. "I am the coach of the team now, not a selector. Neither I'm a broadcaster. When my tenure as a coach ends then ask me and I will give my viewpoint. At this moment, I have to focus on the team and who is there in the team," Shastri told Times Now during the interaction. "Yes, I am the coach. My team captain is Virat Kohli, vice-captain is Ajinkya Rahane. For one day international team, the captain is again Virat Kohli, vice-captain is Rohit Sharma, and they are doing extremely well. If you see the performance of the Indian team, tell me which other team has been this consistent in these 5 years. If not, then why speculate (who can become captain)? This team is doing well and I am happy," Shastri added. Amid all talks around split-captaincy, Kohli is set to lead India in the forthcoming ICC T20 World Cup, in the UAE later this year. He will look to lead India to the championship, ending all such talks once and for all. At present, Team India is involved in the five-match Test series versus England in the United Kingdom. Kohli & Co. are gearing up to face the hosts in the fourth and penultimate Test, at Kennington Oval, London, from September 2 (Thursday), with the series currently levelled at 1-1.

Should Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma share Team India leadership duties? Ravi Shastri gives his take on split captaincy

There were quite a few rumours of an alleged rift between Indian captain Virat Kohli and his white-ball format deputy Rohit Sharma, which broke out after the 2019 ODI World Cup in England and Wales. While the team management has always shunned all such claims, Team India head coach Ravi Shastri has finally reacted to the alleged rift rumours.

In an interaction with Times Now, Shastri responded to the news of alleged rift between King Kohli and the Hitman. He said, "I never saw it. So when People used to ask me like this, I say what you have seen I have not seen. Hamesha taalmel acha hai&nbsp;(the&nbsp;co-ordination has always been there). I have never seen it affecting the team. If I see&nbsp;an effect in the team, I will say on Virat or Rohit's face that this is not on and you have to look at things differently. But not once&nbsp;have I seen it impacting the team from day 1. I&nbsp;am a person who says what I want."

Following the 2019 World Cup, Kohli was also asked to react with regard to the alleged rift. Back then, the 32-year-old had strongly reacted to all such reports and told, "I too have heard a lot. Dressing room atmosphere is important to succeed. If this (rumour of the rift) was true, we would not have performed well. It's ridiculous to read such news. We are overlooking faces. We are turning blind eyes towards good things. It's disrespectful to bring such news. You'll come to the changing room and see how we are. We cant show you videos. It baffles you as a team member and the captain."

Despite the rumours of an alleged rift between Kohli-Rohit doing the rounds for quite sometime, the duo helped India win many games post the ODI World Cup, across formats. At present, both the players along with the Indian Test team, in the United Kingdom, is gearing up to face England in the fourth and penultimate Test from September 2 (Thursday), at Kennington Oval, London.

The five-match Test series is currently levelled at 1-1.

There were quite a few rumours of an alleged rift between Indian captain Virat Kohli and his white-ball format deputy Rohit Sharma, which broke out after the 2019 ODI World Cup in England and Wales.

There were quite a few rumours of an alleged rift between Indian captain Virat Kohli and his white-ball format deputy Rohit Sharma, which broke out after the 2019 ODI World Cup in England and Wales. While the team management has always shunned all such claims, Team India head coach Ravi Shastri has finally reacted to the alleged rift rumours. In an interaction with Times Now, Shastri responded to the news of alleged rift between King Kohli and the Hitman. He said, "I never saw it. So when People used to ask me like this, I say what you have seen I have not seen. Hamesha taalmel acha hai (the co-ordination has always been there). I have never seen it affecting the team. If I see an effect in the team, I will say on Virat or Rohit's face that this is not on and you have to look at things differently. But not once have I seen it impacting the team from day 1. I am a person who says what I want." Following the 2019 World Cup, Kohli was also asked to react with regard to the alleged rift. Back then, the 32-year-old had strongly reacted to all such reports and told, "I too have heard a lot. Dressing room atmosphere is important to succeed. If this (rumour of the rift) was true, we would not have performed well. It's ridiculous to read such news. We are overlooking faces. We are turning blind eyes towards good things. It's disrespectful to bring such news. You'll come to the changing room and see how we are. We cant show you videos. It baffles you as a team member and the captain." Despite the rumours of an alleged rift between Kohli-Rohit doing the rounds for quite sometime, the duo helped India win many games post the ODI World Cup, across formats. At present, both the players along with the Indian Test team, in the United Kingdom, is gearing up to face England in the fourth and penultimate Test from September 2 (Thursday), at Kennington Oval, London. The five-match Test series is currently levelled at 1-1.

Was there an alleged rift between Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma? Ravi Shastri breaks his silence

India and England will lock horns in the fourth and penultimate Test at Kennington Oval, London from September 2 (Thursday) with the series interestingly poised at 1-1. After the drawn series opener and Virat Kohli-led India winning the second Test at Lord's by 151 runs, Joe Root &amp; Co. bounced back in style to win the third Test by an innings and 76 runs as both sides have plenty to play for in the penultimate contest.

A 2-1 unassailable lead will be for taking for both sides. Ahead of the match's commencement, here's a quick stat of how both sides have fared at the venue.&nbsp;

STATS

Both India and England have squared off against each other on 13 occasions at the picturesque Kennington Oval, London. Out of the 13 games, India have managed to win only 1 encounter and lost 5. Meanwhile, the remaining 7 Tests resulted in a draw.

During India's 2018 tour of England, Kohli &amp; Co. lost to hosts at the venue by 118 runs in pursuit of 463. To add to India's woes, they have lost all their last three Tests at the venue, including two innings defeat.

PITCH CONDITIONS

Traditionally, the pitch at The Oval is akin for pacers as well as spinners. While it will begin to assist the pacers for the initial few days, the spinners come into the action which might tempt Team India to finally give R Ashwin a chance in the series. Both Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja can feature in India's XI. For the batters, they will find it a nice turf to bat on, with runs mainly coming in the second session of the day.

WEATHER CONDITIONS

According to AccuWeather, the weather in London is expected to remain fairly for the first three-four days. However, rain may play spoilsport on the final day. Hence, if all three results remain possible on Day 5, we might see rain wasting crucial time as it happened during the series opener (when entire Day 5 got washed out).&nbsp;As batting already remains tough in the final innings in England, the change of weather might tilt the equation in the favour of the bowling side on Day 5.

PREDICTED XI:&nbsp;

India's XI:&nbsp;KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli (c), Ajinkya Rahane, Rishabh Pant (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, R. Ashwin/Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj

England's XI:&nbsp;Rory Burns, Haseeb Hameed, Dawid Malan, Joe Root (c), Jonny Bairstow (wk), Ollie Pope/Dan Lawrence, Moeen Ali, Chris Woakes, Ollie Robinson, Mark Wood, James Anderson

India and England will lock horns in the fourth and penultimate Test at Kennington Oval, London from September 2 (Thursday) with the series interestingly poised at 1-1.

India and England will lock horns in the fourth and penultimate Test at Kennington Oval, London from September 2 (Thursday) with the series interestingly poised at 1-1. After the drawn series opener and Virat Kohli-led India winning the second Test at Lord's by 151 runs, Joe Root & Co. bounced back in style to win the third Test by an innings and 76 runs as both sides have plenty to play for in the penultimate contest. A 2-1 unassailable lead will be for taking for both sides. Ahead of the match's commencement, here's a quick stat of how both sides have fared at the venue. STATS Both India and England have squared off against each other on 13 occasions at the picturesque Kennington Oval, London. Out of the 13 games, India have managed to win only 1 encounter and lost 5. Meanwhile, the remaining 7 Tests resulted in a draw. During India's 2018 tour of England, Kohli & Co. lost to hosts at the venue by 118 runs in pursuit of 463. To add to India's woes, they have lost all their last three Tests at the venue, including two innings defeat. PITCH CONDITIONS Traditionally, the pitch at The Oval is akin for pacers as well as spinners. While it will begin to assist the pacers for the initial few days, the spinners come into the action which might tempt Team India to finally give R Ashwin a chance in the series. Both Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja can feature in India's XI. For the batters, they will find it a nice turf to bat on, with runs mainly coming in the second session of the day. WEATHER CONDITIONS According to AccuWeather, the weather in London is expected to remain fairly for the first three-four days. However, rain may play spoilsport on the final day. Hence, if all three results remain possible on Day 5, we might see rain wasting crucial time as it happened during the series opener (when entire Day 5 got washed out). As batting already remains tough in the final innings in England, the change of weather might tilt the equation in the favour of the bowling side on Day 5. PREDICTED XI: India's XI: KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli (c), Ajinkya Rahane, Rishabh Pant (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, R. Ashwin/Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj England's XI: Rory Burns, Haseeb Hameed, Dawid Malan, Joe Root (c), Jonny Bairstow (wk), Ollie Pope/Dan Lawrence, Moeen Ali, Chris Woakes, Ollie Robinson, Mark Wood, James Anderson

India vs England 2021, 4th Test: Pitch conditions at Kennington Oval, London weather report and stats

Author

Zee News Rajasthan

Editor

Aditya Sahay

Home

Live Tv

Latest

World

India

Business

Entertainment

Sports

Opinions

Videos

Photos

Gravitas

Lifestyle

Science

Tech

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