Indian skipper Rohit Sharma lavished huge praise on veteran spinner R Ashwin ahead of his 100th Test appearance. India take on England in the fifth and final Test, in Dharamsala, which gets underway on March 7 (Thursday). It will see Ashwin and English batter Jonny Bairstow making their respective 100th appearances in the red ball format. Rohit, thus,&nbsp;heaped praise on his teammate Ashwin for his impeccable run in Tests for India.

<h2>'It is rare to have players like R Ashwin'</h2>

In the pre-match presser of the Dharamsala Test, Rohit told the reporters, "Big achievement for any player to play 100 Tests. It is a big milestone. He has been a big match winner for us. What he has done for us, no praise is enough. His performances over 5-7 years, every series he has contributed. It is rare to have players like him."

Ashwin has accounted for 507 wickets in 99 Tests, including 35 five-fers. He is the ninth-highest wicket-taker overall, second-most by an Indian, in Tests. In the ongoing home series versus England, he entered the elite 500-wicket club during the third Test in Rajkot.

The 37-year-old, who also has 3,309 runs including five hundreds and 14 fifties in whites, will look to have&nbsp;a memorable outing in his landmark Test, in Dharamsala.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-dharamsala-test-r-ashwin-recalls-how-2012-england-series-gave-him-a-wonderful-lesson-696755">IND vs ENG, Dharamsala Test: R Ashwin recalls how 2012 England series taught him a wonderful lesson</a>

Talking about the Dharamsala Test, the picturesque venue has hosted only one game in the format (between India and Australia in 2017). Rohit spoke on the surface and expects a "typical Indian pitch". In this regard, he stated, "I have not&nbsp;played a Test match here in Dharamsala. Both seamers and spinners were played back in the 2017 Test."

“Looking at the pitch; it looks like a good pitch. It will be a typical Indian pitch with some movement at the start and towards the end."

India have already won the five-match series with an unassailable 3-1 lead following their win in the Ranchi Test. They will, however, look to make the scoreline 4-1 and add crucial points in their kitty in the ongoing ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 cycle.

Indian skipper Rohit Sharma lavished huge praise on veteran spinner R Ashwin ahead of his 100th Test appearance. India take on England in the fifth and final Test, in Dharamsala, which gets underway on March 7 (Thursday).

Indian skipper Rohit Sharma lavished huge praise on veteran spinner R Ashwin ahead of his 100th Test appearance. India take on England in the fifth and final Test, in Dharamsala, which gets underway on March 7 (Thursday). It will see Ashwin and English batter Jonny Bairstow making their respective 100th appearances in the red ball format. Rohit, thus, heaped praise on his teammate Ashwin for his impeccable run in Tests for India. 'It is rare to have players like R Ashwin' In the pre-match presser of the Dharamsala Test, Rohit told the reporters, "Big achievement for any player to play 100 Tests. It is a big milestone. He has been a big match winner for us. What he has done for us, no praise is enough. His performances over 5-7 years, every series he has contributed. It is rare to have players like him." Ashwin has accounted for 507 wickets in 99 Tests, including 35 five-fers. He is the ninth-highest wicket-taker overall, second-most by an Indian, in Tests. In the ongoing home series versus England, he entered the elite 500-wicket club during the third Test in Rajkot. The 37-year-old, who also has 3,309 runs including five hundreds and 14 fifties in whites, will look to have a memorable outing in his landmark Test, in Dharamsala. Also read: IND vs ENG, Dharamsala Test: R Ashwin recalls how 2012 England series taught him a wonderful lesson Talking about the Dharamsala Test, the picturesque venue has hosted only one game in the format (between India and Australia in 2017). Rohit spoke on the surface and expects a "typical Indian pitch". In this regard, he stated, "I have not played a Test match here in Dharamsala. Both seamers and spinners were played back in the 2017 Test." “Looking at the pitch; it looks like a good pitch. It will be a typical Indian pitch with some movement at the start and towards the end." India have already won the five-match series with an unassailable 3-1 lead following their win in the Ranchi Test. They will, however, look to make the scoreline 4-1 and add crucial points in their kitty in the ongoing ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 cycle.

IND vs ENG: ‘No praise is enough’ - Rohit Sharma all praise for R Ashwin before spinner’s 100th Test

Indian off-spinner R Ashwin revealed that he occasionally&nbsp;befriends media people to get footage of the opposition batters batting in the nets. Ashwin, who is set to play his 100th Test when India lock horns with England in Dharamsala,&nbsp;made use of this ploy during the 2020-2021 Border Gavaskar Trophy series in Australia. Back then, he reaped the rewards of this strategy by finishing the series with 12 wickets from three Tests.&nbsp;

Ahead of the Dharamsala Test, Ashwin told Jio Cinema, "Sometimes I make friends with the media guys and get footage from the backside when the batters are practicing in the nets. When I went to Australia, there were occasions where Marnus and Smith were using their feet and going back in the nets. It works because I feel human beings are very insecure. The moment they know you have them, you're winning half the battle."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-dharamsala-test-r-ashwin-recalls-how-2012-england-series-gave-him-a-wonderful-lesson-696755">IND vs ENG, Dharamsala Test: R Ashwin recalls how 2012 England series taught him a wonderful lesson</a>

Further, the 37-year-old Ashwin heaped praise on the Australian and England batters for playing spin well and coming better prepared for their tour to the subcontinent.&nbsp;

"I feel England and Australia batters bat against spin much better than some of our own on occasions because they know this is a very stern challenge, so year across they end up preparing to play spin like we prepare to play seam and bounce," he added.

Ashwin will become the 14th Indian to enter the 100-Test club when he takes on the field for India's fifth and final match versus England in Dharamsala. In the ongoing five-match series at home, the veteran has 17 scalps -- fourth-most -- and also entered the coveted 500-wicket club in the format. In the fourth and penultimate Test,&nbsp;in Ranchi, he attained his 35th five-fer to surpass former great Anil Kumble's record of most wickets in home&nbsp;Tests. Thus, he will surely look to make the most of his landmark Test in Dharamsala and help the team win the series 4-1.&nbsp;

India already have an unassailable 3-1 lead following their five-wicket win in Ranchi.

Indian off-spinner R Ashwin revealed that he occasionally befriends media people to get footage of the opposition batters batting in the nets. Ashwin, who is set to play his 100th Test when India lock horns with England in Dharamsala, made use of this ploy during the 2020-2021 Border Gavaskar Trophy series in Australia.

Indian off-spinner R Ashwin revealed that he occasionally befriends media people to get footage of the opposition batters batting in the nets. Ashwin, who is set to play his 100th Test when India lock horns with England in Dharamsala, made use of this ploy during the 2020-2021 Border Gavaskar Trophy series in Australia. Back then, he reaped the rewards of this strategy by finishing the series with 12 wickets from three Tests. Ahead of the Dharamsala Test, Ashwin told Jio Cinema, "Sometimes I make friends with the media guys and get footage from the backside when the batters are practicing in the nets. When I went to Australia, there were occasions where Marnus and Smith were using their feet and going back in the nets. It works because I feel human beings are very insecure. The moment they know you have them, you're winning half the battle." Also read: IND vs ENG, Dharamsala Test: R Ashwin recalls how 2012 England series taught him a wonderful lesson Further, the 37-year-old Ashwin heaped praise on the Australian and England batters for playing spin well and coming better prepared for their tour to the subcontinent. "I feel England and Australia batters bat against spin much better than some of our own on occasions because they know this is a very stern challenge, so year across they end up preparing to play spin like we prepare to play seam and bounce," he added. Ashwin will become the 14th Indian to enter the 100-Test club when he takes on the field for India's fifth and final match versus England in Dharamsala. In the ongoing five-match series at home, the veteran has 17 scalps -- fourth-most -- and also entered the coveted 500-wicket club in the format. In the fourth and penultimate Test, in Ranchi, he attained his 35th five-fer to surpass former great Anil Kumble's record of most wickets in home Tests. Thus, he will surely look to make the most of his landmark Test in Dharamsala and help the team win the series 4-1. India already have an unassailable 3-1 lead following their five-wicket win in Ranchi.

IND vs ENG: Ahead of 100th Test, R Ashwin reveals he befriends media guys to get footage of opposition batters

Indian off-spinner R Ashwin is set to play his 100th Test when India take on England in the fifth and final match in Dharamsala on March 7. Ashwin will become only the 14th Indian to enter the 100-Test club. Ahead of the fifth Test, Ashwin recalled the turning point of his Test career. Speaking to the reporters, the 37-year-old recalled the 2012 home Test series versus Alastair Cook-led England and how it taught him a wonderful lesson.

In the 2012 series, Ashwin ended as the fourth-highest wicket-taker with 14 wickets. However, he went for 737 runs at an average of 52.64. His best figures of 3 for 80 came in the first test in Ahmedabad, but he was largely unimpressive.&nbsp;

Ashwin, in the pre-match press conference, recalled how the series taught him a wonderful lesson. He said, "That series vs England at home, where Cook and Pietersen scored runs. Can well be the turning point for me. There were talks of me getting dropped. It was a wonderful lesson for me to improve say 5%. I knew what I had to correct. Since then, it was addressing downs."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-he-knows-what-he-needs-to-do-mccullum-backs-underfire-pope-ahead-of-dharamsala-test-696737">IND vs ENG: 'He knows what he needs to do' - McCullum backs underfire Pope ahead of Dharamsala Test</a>

The wily off-spinner also reacted on his landmark Test. He stated, "It's a big occasion, from the look and sound of it." The spinner became a part of the elite 500-wicket club in the format during the third Test in Rajkot. He is India's second-highest wicket-taker (507) in the purest format and ninth overall.&nbsp;

In the ongoing Tests versus England, Ashwin is the fourth-highest wicket-taker (17) and will look to finish off on a high in his landmark appearance in Dharamsala. India lead the series 3-1 following their five-wicket win in Ranchi.&nbsp;

Indian off-spinner R Ashwin is set to play his 100th Test when India take on England in the fifth and final match in Dharamsala on March 7. Ashwin will become only the 14th Indian to enter the 100-Test club.

Indian off-spinner R Ashwin is set to play his 100th Test when India take on England in the fifth and final match in Dharamsala on March 7. Ashwin will become only the 14th Indian to enter the 100-Test club. Ahead of the fifth Test, Ashwin recalled the turning point of his Test career. Speaking to the reporters, the 37-year-old recalled the 2012 home Test series versus Alastair Cook-led England and how it taught him a wonderful lesson. In the 2012 series, Ashwin ended as the fourth-highest wicket-taker with 14 wickets. However, he went for 737 runs at an average of 52.64. His best figures of 3 for 80 came in the first test in Ahmedabad, but he was largely unimpressive. Ashwin, in the pre-match press conference, recalled how the series taught him a wonderful lesson. He said, "That series vs England at home, where Cook and Pietersen scored runs. Can well be the turning point for me. There were talks of me getting dropped. It was a wonderful lesson for me to improve say 5%. I knew what I had to correct. Since then, it was addressing downs." Also read: IND vs ENG: 'He knows what he needs to do' - McCullum backs underfire Pope ahead of Dharamsala Test The wily off-spinner also reacted on his landmark Test. He stated, "It's a big occasion, from the look and sound of it." The spinner became a part of the elite 500-wicket club in the format during the third Test in Rajkot. He is India's second-highest wicket-taker (507) in the purest format and ninth overall. In the ongoing Tests versus England, Ashwin is the fourth-highest wicket-taker (17) and will look to finish off on a high in his landmark appearance in Dharamsala. India lead the series 3-1 following their five-wicket win in Ranchi.

IND vs ENG, Dharamsala Test: R Ashwin recalls how 2012 England series taught him a wonderful lesson

On Thursday (July 06), Steve Smith became the 15th Australian and 75th player overall to enter the 100-Test club during Day 1 of the third Ashes Test, at Leeds, Headingley. Smith, who started as a leg-spinner, is one of the legends of the modern-day game who has redefined his career as one of the greatest batters -- especially in the purest format of the game. He has over 9,000 runs (9,113) in whites at an average of nearly 60 with 32 hundreds.&nbsp;

Smith has been Australia's go-to-batter over the years and played an integral role in their success in the longest format. With him achieving the 100-Test milestone, Australian captain Pat Cummins lauded Smith during the coin toss of the third Ashes Test in Headingley.&nbsp;"For Smith, his 100th game. Huge, the standard he's set, averaging almost 60 is incredible," Cummins said after Ben Stokes-led England opted to bowl first in the third Test.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/stop-concentrating-on-india-vs-pakistan-shaheen-afridi-says-winning-cwc23-is-babar-cos-main-aim-612604">Stop concentrating on India vs Pakistan: Shaheen Afridi says winning CWC'23 is Babar &amp; Co's main aim</a>

Smith has been in good form in the ongoing English summer. He made a brisk 121 versus India in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) -- where Cummins &amp; Co. won by 209 runs -- and while he struggled in the Ashes 2023 opener, he returned with 110 and 34 in the second Test at Lord's. As Australia have a 2-0 lead and is on the verge of winning their first away Ashes since 2001, Smith will be desperate to score a daddy hundred in the ongoing third Test and help his side retain the urn with an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-match series.&nbsp;

After being asked to bat first, Australia had a tough start in the third Test. While David Warner departed for 4, Usman Khawaja's stumps were rattled by Mark Wood who also dismissed Marnus Labuschagne. Australia is now dependent on Smith to keep the scoreboard moving and take his side out of troubled waters.

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On Thursday (July 06), Steve Smith became the 15th Australian and 75th player overall to enter the 100-Test club during Day 1 of the third Ashes Test, at Leeds, Headingley.

On Thursday (July 06), Steve Smith became the 15th Australian and 75th player overall to enter the 100-Test club during Day 1 of the third Ashes Test, at Leeds, Headingley. Smith, who started as a leg-spinner, is one of the legends of the modern-day game who has redefined his career as one of the greatest batters -- especially in the purest format of the game. He has over 9,000 runs (9,113) in whites at an average of nearly 60 with 32 hundreds. Smith has been Australia's go-to-batter over the years and played an integral role in their success in the longest format. With him achieving the 100-Test milestone, Australian captain Pat Cummins lauded Smith during the coin toss of the third Ashes Test in Headingley. "For Smith, his 100th game. Huge, the standard he's set, averaging almost 60 is incredible," Cummins said after Ben Stokes-led England opted to bowl first in the third Test. Also Read: Stop concentrating on India vs Pakistan: Shaheen Afridi says winning CWC'23 is Babar & Co's main aim Smith has been in good form in the ongoing English summer. He made a brisk 121 versus India in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) -- where Cummins & Co. won by 209 runs -- and while he struggled in the Ashes 2023 opener, he returned with 110 and 34 in the second Test at Lord's. As Australia have a 2-0 lead and is on the verge of winning their first away Ashes since 2001, Smith will be desperate to score a daddy hundred in the ongoing third Test and help his side retain the urn with an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-match series. After being asked to bat first, Australia had a tough start in the third Test. While David Warner departed for 4, Usman Khawaja's stumps were rattled by Mark Wood who also dismissed Marnus Labuschagne. Australia is now dependent on Smith to keep the scoreboard moving and take his side out of troubled waters. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ashes 2023 | He has set high standard: Aussie captain Pat Cummins lauds Steve Smith for 100th Test milestone

On Friday (February 17), India locked horns with Australia in the second Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2023, in New Delhi. As India took the field, after losing the toss and being asked to bowl first, Indian players gave a 'guard of honour' to Cheteshwar Pujara as the No. 3 batter entered the 100-Test club.&nbsp;

As the Rohit Sharma-led Indian players came out, they assembled and honoured Pujara for becoming the 13th Indian to play 100, or more, Tests. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) shared a video of the same and captioned it: A guard of honour and a warm welcome for @cheteshwar1 on his 100th Test". Here's the clip:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
A guard of honour and a warm welcome for <a href="https://twitter.com/cheteshwar1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@cheteshwar1</a> on his 1⃣0⃣0⃣th Test 😃👌<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAUS</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/mastercardindia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mastercardindia</a> <a href="https://t.co/jZoY1mjctu">pic.twitter.com/jZoY1mjctu</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1626435295460884482?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chetan-sharma-zee-media-tv-sting-former-cricketer-resigns-as-bcci-chief-selector-562930">Chetan Sharma Zee Media TV sting: Former cricketer resigns as BCCI chief selector</a>

List of Indian cricketers to have played 100 or more Test matches

Sachin Tendulkar - 200 Tests 
Rahul Dravid - 163 Tests 
VVS Laxman - 134 matches 
Anil Kumble - 132 
Kapil Dev - 131 matches 
Sunil Gavaskar - 125 Tests 
Dilip Vengsarkar - 116 matches 
Sourav Ganguly - 113 Tests 
Virat Kohli - 105 Tests 
Ishant Sharma - 105 matches 
Harbhajan Singh - 103 Tests 
Virender Sehwag - 103 matches 
Cheteshwar Pujara - 100 Tests*

On his landmark Test, Pujara's family was present at the iconic Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi.&nbsp;Prior to the Test, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar presented the batter his special cap along with an inspiring&nbsp;speech.

Gavaskar said, "Cheteshwar, when we are playing as kids growing up, whether we are playing at home or down on the streets or in the maidans, we are all dreaming of playing for India and eventually when we do play for India, it's an unbelievable feeling. You want to do that over and over again and to do that you need a lot of hardwork, you need plenty of determination, plenty of self-belief to be able to lift yourself from lean periods and then still focus on getting the job done. When you go out to bat, it looks as if you're not just taking your bat with you, you are taking the Indian flag with you and you put your body on the line for India. You have taken the blows, you have got up and you have made the bowlers earn your wicket."

Pujara has so far amassed 7,021 runs, including 19 hundreds and 34 half-centuries, along with a best of 206*. He will be eager to score a daddy hundred in his special Test and take India to a 2-0 scoreline in the ongoing series versus Pat Cummins-led Australia.

On Friday (February 17), India locked horns with Australia in the second Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2023, in New Delhi. As India took the field, after losing the toss and being asked to bowl first, Indian players gave a 'guard of honour' to Cheteshwar Pujara as the No.

On Friday (February 17), India locked horns with Australia in the second Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2023, in New Delhi. As India took the field, after losing the toss and being asked to bowl first, Indian players gave a 'guard of honour' to Cheteshwar Pujara as the No. 3 batter entered the 100-Test club. As the Rohit Sharma-led Indian players came out, they assembled and honoured Pujara for becoming the 13th Indian to play 100, or more, Tests. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) shared a video of the same and captioned it: A guard of honour and a warm welcome for @cheteshwar1 on his 100th Test". Here's the clip: A guard of honour and a warm welcome for @cheteshwar1 on his 1⃣0⃣0⃣th Test 😃👌#TeamIndia | #INDvAUS | @mastercardindia pic.twitter.com/jZoY1mjctu — BCCI (@BCCI) February 17, 2023 × Also Read: Chetan Sharma Zee Media TV sting: Former cricketer resigns as BCCI chief selector List of Indian cricketers to have played 100 or more Test matches Sachin Tendulkar - 200 Tests Rahul Dravid - 163 Tests VVS Laxman - 134 matches Anil Kumble - 132 Kapil Dev - 131 matches Sunil Gavaskar - 125 Tests Dilip Vengsarkar - 116 matches Sourav Ganguly - 113 Tests Virat Kohli - 105 Tests Ishant Sharma - 105 matches Harbhajan Singh - 103 Tests Virender Sehwag - 103 matches Cheteshwar Pujara - 100 Tests* On his landmark Test, Pujara's family was present at the iconic Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi. Prior to the Test, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar presented the batter his special cap along with an inspiring speech. Gavaskar said, "Cheteshwar, when we are playing as kids growing up, whether we are playing at home or down on the streets or in the maidans, we are all dreaming of playing for India and eventually when we do play for India, it's an unbelievable feeling. You want to do that over and over again and to do that you need a lot of hardwork, you need plenty of determination, plenty of self-belief to be able to lift yourself from lean periods and then still focus on getting the job done. When you go out to bat, it looks as if you're not just taking your bat with you, you are taking the Indian flag with you and you put your body on the line for India. You have taken the blows, you have got up and you have made the bowlers earn your wicket." Pujara has so far amassed 7,021 runs, including 19 hundreds and 34 half-centuries, along with a best of 206*. He will be eager to score a daddy hundred in his special Test and take India to a 2-0 scoreline in the ongoing series versus Pat Cummins-led Australia.

Team India gives 'guard of honour' to Cheteshwar Pujara as he joins 100-Test club - WATCH

Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan on Thursday congratulated Virat Kohli ahead of his 100th test appearance, saying that he made everyone fall in love with the longest format all over again.

"Test cricket was limping and that's when it found a magical physio in Virat Kohli. He came, He conquered and He made everyone love test cricket all over again! Congratulations @imVkohlion your remarkable achievement," tweeted Irfan.

Kohli's 100th Test match will not be played behind closed doors.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-sri-lanka-virat-kohli-reflects-on-his-journey-ahead-of-historic-100th-test-watch-458601">India vs Sri Lanka: Virat Kohli reflects on his journey ahead of historic 100th Test - WATCH</a>

India will play the first of the two-match Test series against Sri Lanka in Mohali.

The second Test match will be played at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.

The former India skipper will now join the company of legendary players like Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, VVS Laxman, Anil Kumble, Kapil Dev, Sunil Gavaskar etc who represented the country in 100 Tests or more.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rahane-and-pujara-played-a-huge-part-in-india-becoming-no-1-in-tests-says-captain-rohit-sharma-458590">Rahane and Pujara played a huge part in India becoming No. 1 in Tests, says captain Rohit Sharma</a>

Kohli will be playing his 100th Test match under the captaincy of Rohit Sharma who will be leading India for the first time in Test matches.

Kohli has amassed 7,962 runs in 99 Tests at an average of 50.39 with 27 tons to his name.

Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan on Thursday congratulated Virat Kohli ahead of his 100th test appearance, saying that he made everyone fall in love with the longest format all over again.

Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan on Thursday congratulated Virat Kohli ahead of his 100th test appearance, saying that he made everyone fall in love with the longest format all over again. "Test cricket was limping and that's when it found a magical physio in Virat Kohli. He came, He conquered and He made everyone love test cricket all over again! Congratulations @imVkohlion your remarkable achievement," tweeted Irfan. Kohli's 100th Test match will not be played behind closed doors. ALSO READ: India vs Sri Lanka: Virat Kohli reflects on his journey ahead of historic 100th Test - WATCH India will play the first of the two-match Test series against Sri Lanka in Mohali. The second Test match will be played at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. The former India skipper will now join the company of legendary players like Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, VVS Laxman, Anil Kumble, Kapil Dev, Sunil Gavaskar etc who represented the country in 100 Tests or more. ALSO READ: Rahane and Pujara played a huge part in India becoming No. 1 in Tests, says captain Rohit Sharma Kohli will be playing his 100th Test match under the captaincy of Rohit Sharma who will be leading India for the first time in Test matches. Kohli has amassed 7,962 runs in 99 Tests at an average of 50.39 with 27 tons to his name.

'He made everyone love Test cricket': Irfan Pathan on Virat Kohli ahead of his historic outing in whites

India's former captain Virat Kohli is set to play his 100th Test during the two-match series opener between hosts India and Sri Lanka, starting on March 04. The 33-year-old Kohli -- who is on a bio-bubble break at present -- will return to the Indian team setup before the SL Test series opener and gear up for his landmark outing in whites, however, the match will be held behind closed doors.

The CEO of the Punjab Cricket Association recently revealed that the first Test between the two Asian giants will be played amid empty stands, which will also be the captaincy debut of Rohit Sharma in the purest format of the game.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sl-2nd-t20i-rohit-sharma-on-the-cusp-of-achieving-major-milestones-in-dharamshala-456712">Ind vs SL, 2nd T20I: Rohit Sharma on the cusp of achieving major milestones in Dharamshala</a>

"The first Test between India and Sri Lanka will be played behind closed doors with no spectators allowed," Punjab Cricket Association CEO Deepak Sharma was quoted as saying by news agency ANI.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/best-batsman-bats-there-with-no-pujara-gavaskar-wants-star-indian-player-to-take-no-3-spot-in-tests-456735">Best batsman bats there: With no Pujara, Gavaskar wants star Indian player to take No. 3 spot in Tests</a>

In 99 Tests, Kohli has&nbsp;7,962 runs at an average of 50.39 along with 27 centuries. He recently stepped down as the Test captain, leading India to 40 wins in 68 encounters. Under him, India won their maiden Test series in Australia, have an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests in mid-2021, dominated at home and played the inaugural WTC final.

The second and final Test will be held at the M Chinnaswammy Stadium, Bengaluru where 50% crowd is expected. Thus, Kohli will miss the chance of playing his 100th Test in his second home (i.e. Bengaluru) and amid crowd presence, unless he misses the Mohali encounter.

India's Test squad for Sri Lanka series:&nbsp;Rohit Sharma (C), Mayank Agarwal, Priyank Panchal, Virat Kohli, Shreyas, Hanuma Vihari, Gill, Rishabh Pant, KS Bharat, Ashwin (subject to fitness), Jadeja, Jayant Yadav, Kuldeep, Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Shami, Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Sourabh Kumar.

India's former captain Virat Kohli is set to play his 100th Test during the two-match series opener between hosts India and Sri Lanka, starting on March 04. The 33-year-old Kohli -- who is on a bio-bubble break at present -- will return to the Indian team setup before the SL Test series opener and gear up for his landmark outing in whites, however, the match will be held behind closed doors.

India's former captain Virat Kohli is set to play his 100th Test during the two-match series opener between hosts India and Sri Lanka, starting on March 04. The 33-year-old Kohli -- who is on a bio-bubble break at present -- will return to the Indian team setup before the SL Test series opener and gear up for his landmark outing in whites, however, the match will be held behind closed doors. The CEO of the Punjab Cricket Association recently revealed that the first Test between the two Asian giants will be played amid empty stands, which will also be the captaincy debut of Rohit Sharma in the purest format of the game. ALSO READ | Ind vs SL, 2nd T20I: Rohit Sharma on the cusp of achieving major milestones in Dharamshala "The first Test between India and Sri Lanka will be played behind closed doors with no spectators allowed," Punjab Cricket Association CEO Deepak Sharma was quoted as saying by news agency ANI. ALSO READ | Best batsman bats there: With no Pujara, Gavaskar wants star Indian player to take No. 3 spot in Tests In 99 Tests, Kohli has 7,962 runs at an average of 50.39 along with 27 centuries. He recently stepped down as the Test captain, leading India to 40 wins in 68 encounters. Under him, India won their maiden Test series in Australia, have an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests in mid-2021, dominated at home and played the inaugural WTC final. The second and final Test will be held at the M Chinnaswammy Stadium, Bengaluru where 50% crowd is expected. Thus, Kohli will miss the chance of playing his 100th Test in his second home (i.e. Bengaluru) and amid crowd presence, unless he misses the Mohali encounter. India's Test squad for Sri Lanka series: Rohit Sharma (C), Mayank Agarwal, Priyank Panchal, Virat Kohli, Shreyas, Hanuma Vihari, Gill, Rishabh Pant, KS Bharat, Ashwin (subject to fitness), Jadeja, Jayant Yadav, Kuldeep, Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Shami, Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Sourabh Kumar.

India vs Sri Lanka: Virat Kohli set to play historic 100th Test behind closed doors in Mohali

England skipper Joe Root on Saturday became the first cricketer to smash a double ton in his 100th Test. The visiting captain came on to the crease when England were down to 64/2 on Day 1 of the first Test against India at the MA Chidambaram stadium.

England skipper Joe Root on Saturday became the first cricketer to smash a double ton in his 100th Test. The visiting captain came on to the crease when England were down to 64/2 on Day 1 of the first Test against India at the MA Chidambaram stadium. ALSO READ: 'Not a great sign for his confidence': Harbhajan Singh on Kuldeep Yadav's omission Joe Root brought up his double ton in style as he smashed Ashwin's delivery out of the park. England have been dominant in the first two days of the Test match as the visitors have crossed the 450-mark by tea on Day 2. First batsman in the history of Test cricket to score a double century in his 100th Test – JOE ROOT 👏 Sensational innings from the England skipper!#INDvENG | https://t.co/gnj5x4GOos pic.twitter.com/IiSpElgvrH — ICC (@ICC) February 6, 2021 × Root has been comfortable despite lethal deliveries from India's bowling attack. Yesterday, the English skipper became the first cricketer to smash a ton in his 98th, 99th, 100th Test match. At the tea of Day 2, Root remains unbeaten on 209 runs, along with Ollie Pope has scored 24 runs for England in this match. The duo has stitched a partnership of 67 runs powering England to 454/4 at tea on Day 2. ALSO READ: 'I was a little bit surprised': VVS Laxman on India's tactic after Tea on Day 1 Jadeja's absence was felt by Indian squad on a flat pitch like this. Indian bowlers have found it difficult to get wickets in such tough conditions. Ben Stokes' quickfire 82 runs troubled the bowlers too. However, the star all-rounder was dismissed after playing a loose shot off Nadeem's delivery giving an easy catch Cheteshwar Pujara. BRIEF SCORE- England: 457/4 (147.2) CRR: 3.1; Joe Root: 211 runs off 357 balls, Ollie Pope 24 runs 74 balls

England skipper Joe Root becomes first batsman to score double ton in 100th Test

India's peril in the New Zealand tour continues as the visiting team faced another defeat after New Zealand beat India by 10 wickets on Day 4 of the first Test in&nbsp;the two-Test match series at Basin Reserve, Wellington. This was New Zealand's 100th Test win.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/1st-test-day-1-new-zealand-debutante-jamieson-tears-into-virats-india-281941" hreflang="en">1st Test, Day 1: New Zealand debutante Jamieson tears into Virat's India</a>&nbsp;

New Zealand now leads the two-match series 1-0 against the Indian team. Kiwi skipper Kane Williamson won the toss and chose to bowl first. India had a disappointing first inning after they were bowled out on 165 runs on Day 2. New Zealand smashed 348 runs to take 183 runs to lead over India. Kyle Jamieson was the star in the first innings as an all-round performance by the young gun played a major role in the win, he scalped four wickets and hit 44 runs for the Kiwis.&nbsp;

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The 10-wicket loss was 🇮🇳's first defeat in the ICC World Test Championship 🏆 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NZvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NZvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/FletOSBASs">pic.twitter.com/FletOSBASs</a>
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India had another disappointing inning with the bat, Mayank Agarwal scored (58 runs) the most runs for the team in the second innings. Pacer duo Tim Southee and Trent Boult took match-winning 9 wickets in the second innings.&nbsp;

New Zealand just needed 9 runs to win when they got down to bat for the second innings, Tom Latham and Tom Blundell scored 7 (not out) and 2 (not out) respectively to win it for New Zealand on Day 4. Tim Southee was adjudged the 'Man of the Match' as he took 9 wickets in the game (4 wickets in first innings and 5 wickets in the second innings).

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Blundell and Latham knock off the runs to give New Zealand their 💯th Test win! 🎉 👏 
 
A great all-round performance by the hosts to take a 1-0 series lead 🏆 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NZvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NZvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/Rab1LpS8P1">pic.twitter.com/Rab1LpS8P1</a>
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Virat Kohli's side was handed their first-ever defeat in the World Test Championship, they will be eyeing to draw the series in the next and final Test against the Kiwis. The match will take place on February 29 at Hagley Oval, Christchurch.&nbsp;

India's peril in the New Zealand tour continues as the visiting team faced another defeat after New Zealand beat India by 10 wickets on Day 4 of the first Test in the two-Test match series at Basin Reserve, Wellington.

India's peril in the New Zealand tour continues as the visiting team faced another defeat after New Zealand beat India by 10 wickets on Day 4 of the first Test in the two-Test match series at Basin Reserve, Wellington. This was New Zealand's 100th Test win. Also see: 1st Test, Day 1: New Zealand debutante Jamieson tears into Virat's India New Zealand now leads the two-match series 1-0 against the Indian team. Kiwi skipper Kane Williamson won the toss and chose to bowl first. India had a disappointing first inning after they were bowled out on 165 runs on Day 2. New Zealand smashed 348 runs to take 183 runs to lead over India. Kyle Jamieson was the star in the first innings as an all-round performance by the young gun played a major role in the win, he scalped four wickets and hit 44 runs for the Kiwis. The 10-wicket loss was 🇮🇳's first defeat in the ICC World Test Championship 🏆 #NZvIND pic.twitter.com/FletOSBASs — ICC (@ICC) February 24, 2020 × India had another disappointing inning with the bat, Mayank Agarwal scored (58 runs) the most runs for the team in the second innings. Pacer duo Tim Southee and Trent Boult took match-winning 9 wickets in the second innings. New Zealand just needed 9 runs to win when they got down to bat for the second innings, Tom Latham and Tom Blundell scored 7 (not out) and 2 (not out) respectively to win it for New Zealand on Day 4. Tim Southee was adjudged the 'Man of the Match' as he took 9 wickets in the game (4 wickets in first innings and 5 wickets in the second innings). Blundell and Latham knock off the runs to give New Zealand their 💯th Test win! 🎉 👏 A great all-round performance by the hosts to take a 1-0 series lead 🏆 #NZvIND pic.twitter.com/Rab1LpS8P1 — ICC (@ICC) February 24, 2020 × Virat Kohli's side was handed their first-ever defeat in the World Test Championship, they will be eyeing to draw the series in the next and final Test against the Kiwis. The match will take place on February 29 at Hagley Oval, Christchurch.

New Zealand hand 10-wickets defeat to India, registers 100th Test victory

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