India made three changes to the playing XI for the second Test against New Zealand in Pune, including dropping underfire batter KL Rahul. A day after head coach Gautam Gambhir said the management would back Rahul in the Test side, India benched him alongside Kuldeep Yadav and Mohammed Siraj.&nbsp;

India included fit-again Shubman Gill, who replaced Rahul, Washington Sundar for Kuldeep Yadav and Akash Deep for seamer Mohammed Siraj. Meanwhile, New Zealand, who won the toss and elected to bat first, also changed their line-up, bringing in spin-bowling all-rounder Mitchell Santner for injured Matt Henry.

Here are the playing XIs of both teams -

India: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rohit Sharma(c), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant(w), Sarfaraz Khan, Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Ravichandran Ashwin, Akash Deep and&nbsp;Jasprit Bumrah

New Zealand: Tom Latham(c), Devon Conway, Will Young, Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Blundell(w), Glenn Phillips, Mitchell Santner, Tim Southee, Ajaz Patel and&nbsp;William ORourke

<h2>Three changes for Pune Test</h2>

After losing the first Test in Bengaluru, the Indian Team asked for a rank-turner in the second in Pune in their quest to make a comeback in this series. Given the surface on offer, India was bound to play an extra spinner, and with Sundar’s inclusion to the squad right after the first match, it became evident that India would play him.&nbsp;

On the other hand, KL Rahul, who failed to deliver in Bengaluru, was dropped, despite Gambhir going public about management backing him in the Test side with the Border-Gavaskar series looming. The right-handed batter faced flak for his poor home run in this format, with the fans taking to social media asking for his exclusion from the playing XI.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/zimbabwe-cricket-team-runs-riot-in-gambia-capitulation-as-records-tumble-left-right-and-centre-770141">Zimbabwe cricket team runs riot in Gambia capitulation as records tumble left, right and centre</a>

Answering all such queries surrounding Rahul’s Test future, Gautam Gambhir said, “You don't pick players on social media because of social media or for that matter even what the experts are saying. What the team management thinks and what the leadership group thinks is very, very important. Ultimately, everyone is judged.

“International cricket is all about being judged, to be honest, because everyone's performance will be judged eventually. But I feel that he [Rahul] is batting really well.&nbsp;

“Obviously, he has had a decent knock in Kanpur [against Bangladesh] obviously, on a difficult wicket. And obviously, he played according to the plans as well. And I am sure, I think, he would also be knowing that he wants to score big runs, and he has that capability of scoring runs. That's why he has been backed by the team management,” Gambhir said in the pre-match presser.

Siraj was another high-profile player dropped from the XI for the ongoing game due to his dry run at home. Akash Deep, who impressed everyone in his brief Test career, replaced him in the XI.

As things stand, New Zealand are 32 for one, with Ravichandran Ashwin picking NZ captain Tom Latham trapped in front in his first over.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

India made three changes to the playing XI for the second Test against New Zealand in Pune, including dropping underfire batter KL Rahul. A day after head coach Gautam Gambhir said the management would back Rahul in the Test side, India benched him alongside Kuldeep Yadav and Mohammed Siraj.

India made three changes to the playing XI for the second Test against New Zealand in Pune, including dropping underfire batter KL Rahul. A day after head coach Gautam Gambhir said the management would back Rahul in the Test side, India benched him alongside Kuldeep Yadav and Mohammed Siraj. India included fit-again Shubman Gill, who replaced Rahul, Washington Sundar for Kuldeep Yadav and Akash Deep for seamer Mohammed Siraj. Meanwhile, New Zealand, who won the toss and elected to bat first, also changed their line-up, bringing in spin-bowling all-rounder Mitchell Santner for injured Matt Henry. Here are the playing XIs of both teams - India: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rohit Sharma(c), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant(w), Sarfaraz Khan, Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Ravichandran Ashwin, Akash Deep and Jasprit Bumrah New Zealand: Tom Latham(c), Devon Conway, Will Young, Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Blundell(w), Glenn Phillips, Mitchell Santner, Tim Southee, Ajaz Patel and William ORourke Three changes for Pune Test After losing the first Test in Bengaluru, the Indian Team asked for a rank-turner in the second in Pune in their quest to make a comeback in this series. Given the surface on offer, India was bound to play an extra spinner, and with Sundar’s inclusion to the squad right after the first match, it became evident that India would play him. On the other hand, KL Rahul, who failed to deliver in Bengaluru, was dropped, despite Gambhir going public about management backing him in the Test side with the Border-Gavaskar series looming. The right-handed batter faced flak for his poor home run in this format, with the fans taking to social media asking for his exclusion from the playing XI. ALSO READ: Zimbabwe cricket team runs riot in Gambia capitulation as records tumble left, right and centre Answering all such queries surrounding Rahul’s Test future, Gautam Gambhir said, “You don't pick players on social media because of social media or for that matter even what the experts are saying. What the team management thinks and what the leadership group thinks is very, very important. Ultimately, everyone is judged. “International cricket is all about being judged, to be honest, because everyone's performance will be judged eventually. But I feel that he [Rahul] is batting really well. “Obviously, he has had a decent knock in Kanpur [against Bangladesh] obviously, on a difficult wicket. And obviously, he played according to the plans as well. And I am sure, I think, he would also be knowing that he wants to score big runs, and he has that capability of scoring runs. That's why he has been backed by the team management,” Gambhir said in the pre-match presser. Siraj was another high-profile player dropped from the XI for the ongoing game due to his dry run at home. Akash Deep, who impressed everyone in his brief Test career, replaced him in the XI. As things stand, New Zealand are 32 for one, with Ravichandran Ashwin picking NZ captain Tom Latham trapped in front in his first over. (With inputs from agencies)

India drop KL Rahul for second Test against New Zealand; make three changes as match gets underway in Pune

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Ace India keeper-batter Rishabh Pant is declared fit to play the second Test against New Zealand in Pune starting Thursday (Oct 24). The left-handed batter suffered a blow to his right knee while keeping during Kiwi’s first innings in Bengaluru, with spare gloveman Dhruv Jurel asked to replace him on the field.&nbsp;

Though Jurel impressed with some exceptional glove work throughout, Pant made inroads with the bat in hand in the second innings. His 99-run knock, part of a 177-run stand with centurion Sarfaraz Khan, blew the roof off at the M Chinnaswamy.

At first, it looked worse, suggesting Pant could be out of the first Test if not the series, but he came to bat&nbsp;fighting knee pain. The star batter took his time before unleashing an attack after lunch. Pant took the attack to the opposition in the second session, accelerating India’s innings, with their scorecard at one stage reading 408 for three.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-v-nz-2024-2nd-test-india-to-prepare-spin-web-in-pune-after-bengaluru-setback-769525">IND v NZ 2024, 2nd Test: India to prepare spin web in Pune after Bengaluru setback</a>

Given India’s position after their first-inning debacle, where they got all out on their lowest team total at home (46) in Tests, surpassing the 356-run deficit and piling up runs was a massive effort. Pant’s contribution played a vital role, which saw him smashing nine fours and five maximums, including a monstrous 107m off Tim Southee.

Per a report in The Indian Express, Pant is fit to play the second Test in Pune. The hosts, however, are expected to make a few changes to the playing XI for the next game. Shubman Gill&nbsp;will be roped in if he is fit, and Akash Deep is likely to replace Mohammed Siraj.

With Washington Sundar’s inclusion and the latest reports suggesting that the board has asked for rank-turner for the second match, Rohit could be tempted to play another spin bowler ahead of a seamer.

<h2>‘Careful with Pant’</h2>

After the first match in Bengaluru, Rohit addressed Pant’s injury status, saying considering what he has undergone in the past year (out of action following a horrific car crash in December 2022), the management is careful with his injury and workload.

“He’s (Rishabh Pant) had a massive operation on his leg, so we all know what he went through,” Rohit had said after the first Test. “He’s had a lot of minor surgeries, one big surgery on his knee, and he went through a lot of trauma, to be honest, in the last one and a half years. So, it’s just about being extra careful, not careful with him. Even when he was batting, he was not comfortably running. He was trying to only put the ball in the stands,” the India captain said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Ace India keeper-batter Rishabh Pant is declared fit to play the second Test against New Zealand in Pune starting Thursday (Oct 24). The left-handed batter suffered a blow to his right knee while keeping during Kiwi’s first innings in Bengaluru, with spare gloveman Dhruv Jurel asked to replace him on the field.

Ace India keeper-batter Rishabh Pant is declared fit to play the second Test against New Zealand in Pune starting Thursday (Oct 24). The left-handed batter suffered a blow to his right knee while keeping during Kiwi’s first innings in Bengaluru, with spare gloveman Dhruv Jurel asked to replace him on the field. Though Jurel impressed with some exceptional glove work throughout, Pant made inroads with the bat in hand in the second innings. His 99-run knock, part of a 177-run stand with centurion Sarfaraz Khan, blew the roof off at the M Chinnaswamy. At first, it looked worse, suggesting Pant could be out of the first Test if not the series, but he came to bat fighting knee pain. The star batter took his time before unleashing an attack after lunch. Pant took the attack to the opposition in the second session, accelerating India’s innings, with their scorecard at one stage reading 408 for three. ALSO READ: IND v NZ 2024, 2nd Test: India to prepare spin web in Pune after Bengaluru setback Given India’s position after their first-inning debacle, where they got all out on their lowest team total at home (46) in Tests, surpassing the 356-run deficit and piling up runs was a massive effort. Pant’s contribution played a vital role, which saw him smashing nine fours and five maximums, including a monstrous 107m off Tim Southee. Per a report in The Indian Express, Pant is fit to play the second Test in Pune. The hosts, however, are expected to make a few changes to the playing XI for the next game. Shubman Gill will be roped in if he is fit, and Akash Deep is likely to replace Mohammed Siraj. With Washington Sundar’s inclusion and the latest reports suggesting that the board has asked for rank-turner for the second match, Rohit could be tempted to play another spin bowler ahead of a seamer. ‘Careful with Pant’ After the first match in Bengaluru, Rohit addressed Pant’s injury status, saying considering what he has undergone in the past year (out of action following a horrific car crash in December 2022), the management is careful with his injury and workload. “He’s (Rishabh Pant) had a massive operation on his leg, so we all know what he went through,” Rohit had said after the first Test. “He’s had a lot of minor surgeries, one big surgery on his knee, and he went through a lot of trauma, to be honest, in the last one and a half years. So, it’s just about being extra careful, not careful with him. Even when he was batting, he was not comfortably running. He was trying to only put the ball in the stands,” the India captain said. (With inputs from agencies)

IND v NZ 2024: Boost for India as Rishabh Pant declared fit to play second Test in Pune

England white-ball captain Jos Buttler has been ruled out of the one-day international leg of the upcoming tour of the West Indies after suffering a fresh injury setback, officials said Monday.

The England and Wales Cricket Board announced earlier this month that Buttler would return from a lengthy injury lay-off to lead the side in three ODIs, starting with the series opener in Antigua on October 31.

But an ECB statement issued Monday said Buttler would miss the ODIs after suffering "a slight setback in his rehabilitation" from a calf problem.&nbsp;

The wicketkeeper-batsman is, however, expected to join the tour party in Barbados ahead of the five-match T20 series, which begins on November 9.

Liam Livingstone will step up as captain for the ODI series, with the Lancashire all-rounder set to lead England for the first time.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-v-nz-2024-2nd-test-india-to-prepare-spin-web-in-pune-after-bengaluru-setback-769525">IND v NZ 2024, 2nd Test: India to prepare spin web in Pune after Bengaluru setback</a>

England have still to decide on whether to add a replacement player to the squad.

Buttler missed England's recent T20 and ODI series against Australia as he recovered from a calf injury.

England drew the T20 series 1-1 and lost the ODI series 3-2 to the 50-over world champions.

Buttler, a member of England's 2019 World Cup-winning team, is one of the most destructive white-ball batsmen of his generation.

But the 34-year-old has not played since the T20 World Cup in the United States and West Indies in June, where England failed to retain their trophy.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

England white-ball captain Jos Buttler has been ruled out of the one-day international leg of the upcoming tour of the West Indies after suffering a fresh injury setback, officials said Monday.

England white-ball captain Jos Buttler has been ruled out of the one-day international leg of the upcoming tour of the West Indies after suffering a fresh injury setback, officials said Monday. The England and Wales Cricket Board announced earlier this month that Buttler would return from a lengthy injury lay-off to lead the side in three ODIs, starting with the series opener in Antigua on October 31. But an ECB statement issued Monday said Buttler would miss the ODIs after suffering "a slight setback in his rehabilitation" from a calf problem. The wicketkeeper-batsman is, however, expected to join the tour party in Barbados ahead of the five-match T20 series, which begins on November 9. Liam Livingstone will step up as captain for the ODI series, with the Lancashire all-rounder set to lead England for the first time. ALSO READ: IND v NZ 2024, 2nd Test: India to prepare spin web in Pune after Bengaluru setback England have still to decide on whether to add a replacement player to the squad. Buttler missed England's recent T20 and ODI series against Australia as he recovered from a calf injury. England drew the T20 series 1-1 and lost the ODI series 3-2 to the 50-over world champions. Buttler, a member of England's 2019 World Cup-winning team, is one of the most destructive white-ball batsmen of his generation. But the 34-year-old has not played since the T20 World Cup in the United States and West Indies in June, where England failed to retain their trophy. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Jos Buttler’s return to cricket delayed as England captain to miss West Indies ODIs

Virgil van Dijk said he is in "discussions with the right people" over his Liverpool future as the club captain moves into the final months of his contract.

The Dutchman is one of a number of high-profile players at Anfield whose deals expire at the end of the season, with uncertainty also surrounding the futures of Mohamed Salah and Trent Alexander-Arnold.

As it stands, the trio will be able to discuss pre-contract terms with overseas clubs from January, but Van Dijk said he is in talks over extending his stay at Anfield.

"What the future brings I have no idea at the moment... discussions are ongoing with the right people and when it's time to make a decision or whatever, I think you guys (the media) will know it as well," he said. "But now full commitment and focus is on Liverpool and to be successful this season. So, we will see."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/la-liga-lethal-robert-lewandowski-helps-barcelona-rout-sevilla-atletico-triumph-over-leganes-769326">La Liga: Lethal Robert Lewandowski helps Barcelona rout Sevilla, Atletico triumph over Leganes</a>

Van Dijk, who joined Liverpool in 2018, turned 33 in July but remains an integral part of a defence that has kept five clean sheets in eight Premier League games so far this season.

Sunday's 2-1 win over Chelsea meant Liverpool returned to the top of the Premier League table after reigning champions Manchester City's 2-1 win at Wolves earlier in the day.

With seven wins from eight in the league, new manager Arne Slot has made an impressive start to life at Anfield.

City and Arsenal were seen as the leading contenders for the title before the season started but the early signs are that Liverpool will be in the mix.

"Everyone can have their opinion but I know, like I think a lot of people know, opinions can change every three days now in terms of (people saying) someone can win the league and someone can't," Van Dijk said. &nbsp;"I think there is no point listening to any of that. I don't do that.

"I focus on one game at a time, I want to be successful, I want to win trophies in every competition we're in, I want to try and win it. We know how difficult it is but I am going to give it a very good go."

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Virgil van Dijk said he is in "discussions with the right people" over his Liverpool future as the club captain moves into the final months of his contract. The Dutchman is one of a number of high-profile players at Anfield whose deals expire at the end of the season, with uncertainty also surrounding the futures of Mohamed Salah and Trent Alexander-Arnold.

Virgil van Dijk said he is in "discussions with the right people" over his Liverpool future as the club captain moves into the final months of his contract. The Dutchman is one of a number of high-profile players at Anfield whose deals expire at the end of the season, with uncertainty also surrounding the futures of Mohamed Salah and Trent Alexander-Arnold. As it stands, the trio will be able to discuss pre-contract terms with overseas clubs from January, but Van Dijk said he is in talks over extending his stay at Anfield. "What the future brings I have no idea at the moment... discussions are ongoing with the right people and when it's time to make a decision or whatever, I think you guys (the media) will know it as well," he said. "But now full commitment and focus is on Liverpool and to be successful this season. So, we will see." ALSO READ: La Liga: Lethal Robert Lewandowski helps Barcelona rout Sevilla, Atletico triumph over Leganes Van Dijk, who joined Liverpool in 2018, turned 33 in July but remains an integral part of a defence that has kept five clean sheets in eight Premier League games so far this season. Sunday's 2-1 win over Chelsea meant Liverpool returned to the top of the Premier League table after reigning champions Manchester City's 2-1 win at Wolves earlier in the day. With seven wins from eight in the league, new manager Arne Slot has made an impressive start to life at Anfield. City and Arsenal were seen as the leading contenders for the title before the season started but the early signs are that Liverpool will be in the mix. "Everyone can have their opinion but I know, like I think a lot of people know, opinions can change every three days now in terms of (people saying) someone can win the league and someone can't," Van Dijk said. "I think there is no point listening to any of that. I don't do that. "I focus on one game at a time, I want to be successful, I want to win trophies in every competition we're in, I want to try and win it. We know how difficult it is but I am going to give it a very good go." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk confirms discussions over contract extension underway ‘with right people’

After losing to New Zealand in the first Test in Bengaluru by eight wickets, the Indian Team gears up for the next game in Pune, for which the hosts have asked to prepare a spin web. Per the latest reports, the Pune pitch, loaded with black soil, will have a lower bounce, suggesting a flatter and slower surface for the second game.

India got all out on 46 in the first innings of the first Test—their lowest Test total at home and third-lowest overall—with the&nbsp;Zealand seamers wreaking&nbsp;havoc on the seam-friendly surface with overcast overhead conditions assisting. Though India returned stronger in the second innings, hitting 462, the Kiwi seamers returned with 17 of the 20 wickets in two outings.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mohammed-shami-is-100-pain-free-but-eyes-ranji-games-before-australia-tour-769492">Mohammed Shami is 100% pain-free but eyes Ranji games before Australia tour</a>

On the other hand, the Indian seamers returned with only five wickets, with the spinners picking up wickets in bulk. Considering a loss in the first Test affected their PCT on the WTC standings for the current cycle, if not their position, the hosts know they need to buckle up and aim for their last series win of this home season.

The latest reports suggest that the remaining two matches in Pune and Mumbai will be spin-friendly, with veteran pair Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin coming to the party. However, the only difference between the pitches at both venues will be the bounce, with Wankhede’s red soil to offer a tad extra.

Meanwhile, the BCCI had planned a similar surface for the first Test, but the overhead conditions in Bengaluru changed the whole scenario.

<h2>What’s the team combination?</h2>

The Indian Team might make a few changes to their playing XI for the second Test. The hosts might bring Akash Deep for Mohammed Siraj or add another all-rounder in either Axar Patel or Washington Sundar for Siraj or out-of-form KL Rahul.

Besides, India will have to take a call on Shubman Gill, who missed the first Test with a stiff neck and was replaced by Sarfaraz Khan, who slammed his maiden hundred in the second innings.

Meanwhile, it is the third Test at this venue. The first was the famous Pune game between India and Australia, with the Australians winning by 333 runs. The left-arm spinner Steve O’Keefe returned with 12 wickets in that game. The next match, however, took place two years later against South Africa, which India won, thanks to a double hundred by Virat Kohli.

(With inputs from agencies)

After losing to New Zealand in the first Test in Bengaluru by eight wickets, the Indian Team gears up for the next game in Pune, for which the hosts have asked to prepare a spin web.

After losing to New Zealand in the first Test in Bengaluru by eight wickets, the Indian Team gears up for the next game in Pune, for which the hosts have asked to prepare a spin web. Per the latest reports, the Pune pitch, loaded with black soil, will have a lower bounce, suggesting a flatter and slower surface for the second game. India got all out on 46 in the first innings of the first Test—their lowest Test total at home and third-lowest overall—with the Zealand seamers wreaking havoc on the seam-friendly surface with overcast overhead conditions assisting. Though India returned stronger in the second innings, hitting 462, the Kiwi seamers returned with 17 of the 20 wickets in two outings. ALSO READ: Mohammed Shami is 100% pain-free but eyes Ranji games before Australia tour On the other hand, the Indian seamers returned with only five wickets, with the spinners picking up wickets in bulk. Considering a loss in the first Test affected their PCT on the WTC standings for the current cycle, if not their position, the hosts know they need to buckle up and aim for their last series win of this home season. The latest reports suggest that the remaining two matches in Pune and Mumbai will be spin-friendly, with veteran pair Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin coming to the party. However, the only difference between the pitches at both venues will be the bounce, with Wankhede’s red soil to offer a tad extra. Meanwhile, the BCCI had planned a similar surface for the first Test, but the overhead conditions in Bengaluru changed the whole scenario. What’s the team combination? The Indian Team might make a few changes to their playing XI for the second Test. The hosts might bring Akash Deep for Mohammed Siraj or add another all-rounder in either Axar Patel or Washington Sundar for Siraj or out-of-form KL Rahul. Besides, India will have to take a call on Shubman Gill, who missed the first Test with a stiff neck and was replaced by Sarfaraz Khan, who slammed his maiden hundred in the second innings. Meanwhile, it is the third Test at this venue. The first was the famous Pune game between India and Australia, with the Australians winning by 333 runs. The left-arm spinner Steve O’Keefe returned with 12 wickets in that game. The next match, however, took place two years later against South Africa, which India won, thanks to a double hundred by Virat Kohli. (With inputs from agencies)

IND v NZ 2024, 2nd Test: India to prepare spin web in Pune after Bengaluru setback

Ace India seamer Mohammed Shami has confirmed that he is 100% pain-free now and wishes to play for Bengal in the Ranji Trophy to get match-ready for the Australia Tour that begins on November 22.

Out with an ankle injury since the home ODI World Cup last year, Shami bowled full throttle at the M Chinnaswamy in Bengaluru on Sunday (Oct 20) for the first time since, indicating he is ready to roar back into the Test side for the marquee series Down Under.

"It felt great yesterday because I had been bowling with half a run-up on and off since I can't put too much stress on my body," he said during an event organised by Eugenix Hair Sciences in Gurugram. "Yesterday, we decided that I would bowl properly, and I gave my 100%. It felt great, [and] the results are good. Hopefully, I'll be back on track soon."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hope-he-will-confirm-ms-dhoni-undecided-over-ipl-2025-participation-csks-kasi-viswanathan-769450">‘Hope he will confirm…’ - MS Dhoni undecided over IPL 2025 participation, says CSK's Kasi Viswanathan</a>

When asked if he’s pain-free, having gone under the knife earlier in February, Shami said 100%. The right-arm seamer, however, has a whole month to attain match fitness and fight for a spot in the XI for the first Test in Perth.

"The Australia series is still far away. The only thing I want to focus on is how to keep myself fit, and how strong I can be before going there. I know what kind of an attack we want for that Test series, so it's better I spend some more time on the ground before going. If I get fit and I get a gap of eight to 10 days, then it's better I play one or two domestic matches before going to Australia."

"I don't know when I can play next, but the day I feel comfortable about bowling 20-30 overs and I get the nod from the doctors, I'll run to play a match. I want to spend as much time as I can on the ground before going for the Australia series,” he continued.

<h2>Life between fitness and frustration</h2>

Talking about his time off the field, Shami reflected on what good it did to his mindset, helping him become more patient and realise how much fitness matters to a cricketer.&nbsp;

"Don't get frustrated and focus as much as you can on fitness and game," he said about spending months off the field. "It's very difficult to come back on track after an injury, so patience is the biggest thing. Injuries teach you patience, and that makes your skill purer."

"Fitness is the main thing [you have to focus on in recovery]. You shouldn't doubt your skill and talent when you're away because certain things are built in you. I agree you need something like rhythm, but your skill will never leave you. It's your fitness you have to fight for,” he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Ace India seamer Mohammed Shami has confirmed that he is 100% pain-free now and wishes to play for Bengal in the Ranji Trophy to get match-ready for the Australia Tour that begins on November 22.

Ace India seamer Mohammed Shami has confirmed that he is 100% pain-free now and wishes to play for Bengal in the Ranji Trophy to get match-ready for the Australia Tour that begins on November 22. Out with an ankle injury since the home ODI World Cup last year, Shami bowled full throttle at the M Chinnaswamy in Bengaluru on Sunday (Oct 20) for the first time since, indicating he is ready to roar back into the Test side for the marquee series Down Under. "It felt great yesterday because I had been bowling with half a run-up on and off since I can't put too much stress on my body," he said during an event organised by Eugenix Hair Sciences in Gurugram. "Yesterday, we decided that I would bowl properly, and I gave my 100%. It felt great, [and] the results are good. Hopefully, I'll be back on track soon." ALSO READ: ‘Hope he will confirm…’ - MS Dhoni undecided over IPL 2025 participation, says CSK's Kasi Viswanathan When asked if he’s pain-free, having gone under the knife earlier in February, Shami said 100%. The right-arm seamer, however, has a whole month to attain match fitness and fight for a spot in the XI for the first Test in Perth. "The Australia series is still far away. The only thing I want to focus on is how to keep myself fit, and how strong I can be before going there. I know what kind of an attack we want for that Test series, so it's better I spend some more time on the ground before going. If I get fit and I get a gap of eight to 10 days, then it's better I play one or two domestic matches before going to Australia." "I don't know when I can play next, but the day I feel comfortable about bowling 20-30 overs and I get the nod from the doctors, I'll run to play a match. I want to spend as much time as I can on the ground before going for the Australia series,” he continued. Life between fitness and frustration Talking about his time off the field, Shami reflected on what good it did to his mindset, helping him become more patient and realise how much fitness matters to a cricketer. "Don't get frustrated and focus as much as you can on fitness and game," he said about spending months off the field. "It's very difficult to come back on track after an injury, so patience is the biggest thing. Injuries teach you patience, and that makes your skill purer." "Fitness is the main thing [you have to focus on in recovery]. You shouldn't doubt your skill and talent when you're away because certain things are built in you. I agree you need something like rhythm, but your skill will never leave you. It's your fitness you have to fight for,” he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Mohammed Shami is 100% pain-free, aims to play Ranji games before Australia tour

Top seeds, the United States, spearheaded by Coco Gauff and Taylor Fritz, were drawn on Monday with Canada for the mixed-team United Cup in Australia.

They begin their 2025 season in Perth, with Felix Auger-Aliassime and Leylah Fernandez headlining the Canadians at the third edition of the tournament from December 27 to January 5.

Defending champions Germany, led by world number three Alexander Zverev, were pitted alongside Brazil and China, who have Olympic champion Zheng Qinwen.

Stefanos Tsitsipas's Greece will also play in Perth, grouped with Kazakhstan and a Spanish team missing world number two Carlos Alcaraz.

Alcaraz is yet to reveal where he will warm up for the Australian Open, the opening Grand Slam of the year.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jt-poston-holds-off-doug-ghim-for-pga-tour-title-in-las-vegas-769315">JT Poston holds off Doug Ghim for PGA Tour title in Las Vegas</a>

Five-time major champion Iga Swiatek and Hubert Hurkacz once more represent Poland as they look to avenge their narrow loss to Germany in the 2024 final.

They face the Czech Republic and Casper Ruud's Norway in Sydney.

Like Alcaraz, world number one Jannik Sinner has opted against playing the United Cup for his country Italy, who will meet France and Switzerland in the group stage.

Britain take on Alex de Minaur's Australia in the other Sydney group.

"Everyone who plays this event absolutely loves the experience," tournament director Stephen Farrow said. "It's the perfect way to acclimatise to the Australian conditions."

Seven of the world's top 10 women and six of the world's top 12 men have signed up.

Each team -- with three men and three women -- go through a round-robin format, with ties comprising one men's and one women's singles and a mixed-doubles clash.

Group winners in each city advance to the quarter-finals, along with the best runner-up.

The semi-finals and final are in Sydney with US$10 million in prize money and ATP and WTA ranking points at stake.

<h2>Draw for the United Cup:</h2>

Perth -

<ul>
	<li>Group A - USA, Canada, TBC</li>
	<li>Group C - Greece, Kazakhstan, Spain</li>
	<li>Group F - China, Germany, Brazil</li>
</ul>

Sydney -

<ul>
	<li>Group B - Poland, Czech Republic, Norway</li>
	<li>Group D - Italy, France, Switzerland</li>
	<li>Group F - Britain, Australia, TBC</li>
</ul>

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Top seeds, the United States, spearheaded by Coco Gauff and Taylor Fritz, were drawn on Monday with Canada for the mixed-team United Cup in Australia. They begin their 2025 season in Perth, with Felix Auger-Aliassime and Leylah Fernandez headlining the Canadians at the third edition of the tournament from December 27 to January 5.

Top seeds, the United States, spearheaded by Coco Gauff and Taylor Fritz, were drawn on Monday with Canada for the mixed-team United Cup in Australia. They begin their 2025 season in Perth, with Felix Auger-Aliassime and Leylah Fernandez headlining the Canadians at the third edition of the tournament from December 27 to January 5. Defending champions Germany, led by world number three Alexander Zverev, were pitted alongside Brazil and China, who have Olympic champion Zheng Qinwen. Stefanos Tsitsipas's Greece will also play in Perth, grouped with Kazakhstan and a Spanish team missing world number two Carlos Alcaraz. Alcaraz is yet to reveal where he will warm up for the Australian Open, the opening Grand Slam of the year. ALSO READ: JT Poston holds off Doug Ghim for PGA Tour title in Las Vegas Five-time major champion Iga Swiatek and Hubert Hurkacz once more represent Poland as they look to avenge their narrow loss to Germany in the 2024 final. They face the Czech Republic and Casper Ruud's Norway in Sydney. Like Alcaraz, world number one Jannik Sinner has opted against playing the United Cup for his country Italy, who will meet France and Switzerland in the group stage. Britain take on Alex de Minaur's Australia in the other Sydney group. "Everyone who plays this event absolutely loves the experience," tournament director Stephen Farrow said. "It's the perfect way to acclimatise to the Australian conditions." Seven of the world's top 10 women and six of the world's top 12 men have signed up. Each team -- with three men and three women -- go through a round-robin format, with ties comprising one men's and one women's singles and a mixed-doubles clash. Group winners in each city advance to the quarter-finals, along with the best runner-up. The semi-finals and final are in Sydney with US$10 million in prize money and ATP and WTA ranking points at stake. Draw for the United Cup: Perth - Group A - USA, Canada, TBC Group C - Greece, Kazakhstan, Spain Group F - China, Germany, Brazil Sydney - Group B - Poland, Czech Republic, Norway Group D - Italy, France, Switzerland Group F - Britain, Australia, TBC Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Tennis: Coco Gauff-led USA drawn with Canada at season-opening United Cup

Former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain MS Dhoni remains undecided on his IPL future yet, according to the franchise’s CEO Kasi Viswanathan, who says that they hope he (Dhoni) gives his confirmation before the submission deadline (Oct 31). Per the latest reports, CSK's top brass is awaiting Dhoni’s decision before listing their retention list ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction later next month.

"We have still no confirmation from him, though we will like him to continue playing for us," Viswanathan said in a chat with ESPNcricinfo. "Hope he will confirm before 31st [October]."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-nz-2nd-test-should-india-replace-mohammed-siraj-with-akash-deep-former-indian-stumper-opines-769421">Ind vs NZ, 2nd Test: Should India replace Mohammed Siraj with Akash Deep? Former Indian stumper opines</a>

Meanwhile, the IPL’s governing council and the BCCI kept October 31 as the deadline for all teams to submit their final retention list.&nbsp;

With the reintroduction of an IPL rule, scrapped in 2021, any player who last played for his country at least five years ago is eligible to play as an uncapped player. MS Dhoni, who announced his international retirement on August 20, 2020, ticks this box, becoming eligible to play as an uncapped player for CSK should he be retained.

While Dhoni’s last international tournament was the 2019 ODI World Cup in England, which the hosts won, Dhoni played in the cash-rich league since.&nbsp;

Before the start of IPL 2024, Dhoni relinquished the CSK captaincy, handing over the baton to opener Ruturaj Gaikwad. In his first season as the new CSK skipper, Gaikwad failed to guide CSK to the playoffs.

MS Dhoni, however, with a troubled knee, scored 161 runs at a whopping strike rate of 220 as a finisher.

<h2>For how much can CSK retain MS Dhoni?</h2>

Should MS give a green signal about his IPL 2025 participation, CSK would retain their former captain for just INR 4 crore from the 120-crore auction purse.

All 10 IPL teams are allowed to retain a maximum of six players ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction, of which a maximum of five can be capped internationals, leaving room for an uncapped player.&nbsp;

Besides, the IPL has set the minimum deduction from the purse auction for each player retained (order wise) – with the first player to cost a franchise INR 18 crore, the second INR 14 crore, INR 11 crore for the third one, INR 18 crore for the next, and INR 14 crore for the fifth and final player, though the teams are free to pay more than these figures to their retained players.

Last-year runners-up, SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH), is the only team to have made their retention list public, with them paying INR 23 crore to Heinrich Klaasen, INR 18 crore to their captain Pat Cummins, and INR 14 crore to opener Abhishek Sharma.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain MS Dhoni remains undecided on his IPL future yet, according to the franchise’s CEO Kasi Viswanathan, who says that they hope he (Dhoni) gives his confirmation before the submission deadline (Oct 31).

Former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain MS Dhoni remains undecided on his IPL future yet, according to the franchise’s CEO Kasi Viswanathan, who says that they hope he (Dhoni) gives his confirmation before the submission deadline (Oct 31). Per the latest reports, CSK's top brass is awaiting Dhoni’s decision before listing their retention list ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction later next month. "We have still no confirmation from him, though we will like him to continue playing for us," Viswanathan said in a chat with ESPNcricinfo. "Hope he will confirm before 31st [October]." ALSO READ: Ind vs NZ, 2nd Test: Should India replace Mohammed Siraj with Akash Deep? Former Indian stumper opines Meanwhile, the IPL’s governing council and the BCCI kept October 31 as the deadline for all teams to submit their final retention list. With the reintroduction of an IPL rule, scrapped in 2021, any player who last played for his country at least five years ago is eligible to play as an uncapped player. MS Dhoni, who announced his international retirement on August 20, 2020, ticks this box, becoming eligible to play as an uncapped player for CSK should he be retained. While Dhoni’s last international tournament was the 2019 ODI World Cup in England, which the hosts won, Dhoni played in the cash-rich league since. Before the start of IPL 2024, Dhoni relinquished the CSK captaincy, handing over the baton to opener Ruturaj Gaikwad. In his first season as the new CSK skipper, Gaikwad failed to guide CSK to the playoffs. MS Dhoni, however, with a troubled knee, scored 161 runs at a whopping strike rate of 220 as a finisher. For how much can CSK retain MS Dhoni? Should MS give a green signal about his IPL 2025 participation, CSK would retain their former captain for just INR 4 crore from the 120-crore auction purse. All 10 IPL teams are allowed to retain a maximum of six players ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction, of which a maximum of five can be capped internationals, leaving room for an uncapped player. Besides, the IPL has set the minimum deduction from the purse auction for each player retained (order wise) – with the first player to cost a franchise INR 18 crore, the second INR 14 crore, INR 11 crore for the third one, INR 18 crore for the next, and INR 14 crore for the fifth and final player, though the teams are free to pay more than these figures to their retained players. Last-year runners-up, SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH), is the only team to have made their retention list public, with them paying INR 23 crore to Heinrich Klaasen, INR 18 crore to their captain Pat Cummins, and INR 14 crore to opener Abhishek Sharma. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Hope he will confirm…’ - MS Dhoni undecided over IPL 2025 participation, says CSK's Kasi Viswanathan

5 Highest Innings Total for India in a Home Defeat

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