Virat Kohli gave up Team India captaincy altogether when he resigned as the Test skipper early this year. The 33-year-old had already lost the limited-overs captaincy when he was sacked as the ODI captain, after having already stepped down from T20I skipper with India's end of campaign in the 2021 World Cup, in the UAE.

Having been released of additional responsibilities, Kohli will now look to rediscover his form with the bat, having not scored an international hundred in over two years. While Kohli isn't short of runs, with fifty-plus scores still coming off his blade across formats at regular intervals, a big knock has deprived the former Indian captain since late 2019. Hence, he will be eager to come at his usual best in the forthcoming home series, versus West Indies and Sri Lanka.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-warner-or-dhawan-chopra-predicts-indian-youngster-as-most-expensive-opener-in-ipl-2022-auction-449533">Not Warner or Dhawan! Chopra predicts Indian youngster as 'most expensive opener' in IPL 2022 auction</a>

Ahead of the India-WI ODIs, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra reflected on the lack of big scores from Kohli's willow.

Talking on&nbsp;Star Sports, Chopra said, "From a personal and individual standpoint, you want to convert those 50s into 100s because you’ve got to save something for the rainy days as well. He’s not going through a bad patch of form, so to speak, in terms of runs, but when you see him bat, you don’t see the same Virat Kohli."

"He’s not imposing, he’s not dominating, he’s still scratching around, he’s scoring those runs and that’s what all great players do – we saw Sachin, Rahul – we’ve seen them&nbsp;accumulate runs, but he’s (Virat Kohli) not an accumulator, he’s an enforcer but he’s not there yet," added the ex-Indian opener.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/warner-iyer-rabada-and-7-others-part-of-marquee-set-at-ipl-2022-mega-auction-see-full-list-449521">Warner, Iyer, Rabada and 7 others part of marquee set at IPL 2022 mega auction, see full list</a>

In addition, the cricketer-turned-commentator further emphasised on how Kohli will have to adapt to new white-ball skipper Rohit Sharma's brand of cricket. The former Test opener&nbsp;feels&nbsp;that could work in favour of King Kohli and liberate him.

"But the one thing I actually want to see, is now Rohit Sharma will have his stamp of authority and the brand of cricket that he wants to play. Virat Kohli has to be apart of the same philosophy. And once you have a different philosophy in place, sometimes it just liberates you, because you are not really thinking about, ‘Ok, I need to score or I need to do this. This is what all of us have to do together.’

"And that is what I am waiting to see, whether it unleashes and liberates Virat Kohli, no matter you get out on 50 but score that 50 off 55 balls, don’t worry about scoring a century, finishing games off, as a captain, you’ve done it all this while. It’s no longer your only job, your job description has changed a little," Chopra&nbsp;concluded.

Virat Kohli gave up Team India captaincy altogether when he resigned as the Test skipper early this year. The 33-year-old had already lost the limited-overs captaincy when he was sacked as the ODI captain, after having already stepped down from T20I skipper with India's end of campaign in the 2021 World Cup, in the UAE.

Virat Kohli gave up Team India captaincy altogether when he resigned as the Test skipper early this year. The 33-year-old had already lost the limited-overs captaincy when he was sacked as the ODI captain, after having already stepped down from T20I skipper with India's end of campaign in the 2021 World Cup, in the UAE. Having been released of additional responsibilities, Kohli will now look to rediscover his form with the bat, having not scored an international hundred in over two years. While Kohli isn't short of runs, with fifty-plus scores still coming off his blade across formats at regular intervals, a big knock has deprived the former Indian captain since late 2019. Hence, he will be eager to come at his usual best in the forthcoming home series, versus West Indies and Sri Lanka. ALSO READ | Not Warner or Dhawan! Chopra predicts Indian youngster as 'most expensive opener' in IPL 2022 auction Ahead of the India-WI ODIs, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra reflected on the lack of big scores from Kohli's willow. Talking on Star Sports, Chopra said, "From a personal and individual standpoint, you want to convert those 50s into 100s because you’ve got to save something for the rainy days as well. He’s not going through a bad patch of form, so to speak, in terms of runs, but when you see him bat, you don’t see the same Virat Kohli." "He’s not imposing, he’s not dominating, he’s still scratching around, he’s scoring those runs and that’s what all great players do – we saw Sachin, Rahul – we’ve seen them accumulate runs, but he’s (Virat Kohli) not an accumulator, he’s an enforcer but he’s not there yet," added the ex-Indian opener. ALSO READ | Warner, Iyer, Rabada and 7 others part of marquee set at IPL 2022 mega auction, see full list In addition, the cricketer-turned-commentator further emphasised on how Kohli will have to adapt to new white-ball skipper Rohit Sharma's brand of cricket. The former Test opener feels that could work in favour of King Kohli and liberate him. "But the one thing I actually want to see, is now Rohit Sharma will have his stamp of authority and the brand of cricket that he wants to play. Virat Kohli has to be apart of the same philosophy. And once you have a different philosophy in place, sometimes it just liberates you, because you are not really thinking about, ‘Ok, I need to score or I need to do this. This is what all of us have to do together.’ "And that is what I am waiting to see, whether it unleashes and liberates Virat Kohli, no matter you get out on 50 but score that 50 off 55 balls, don’t worry about scoring a century, finishing games off, as a captain, you’ve done it all this while. It’s no longer your only job, your job description has changed a little," Chopra concluded.

Don't see the same Virat Kohli: Former opener feels ex-captain 'not dominating' with the bat

All eyes are now on the forthcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 mega auction, which is set to take place on February 12 and 13 in Bengaluru. While the two new IPL franchises -- Lucknow Super Giants and Team Ahmedabad -- will look to build their team from scratch, the other eight&nbsp;teams will revamp after releasing some of their marquee players.

Prior to the mega auction proceedings, which will be held in Bengaluru, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra shared his thoughts and made a bold claim while predicting the 'most expensive opener'. The likes of David Warner, Jonny Bairstow, Shikhar Dhawan, Quinton de Kock, Shubman Gill, Ishan Kishan, etc. will go under the hammer. Chopra believes Ishan will earn a whopping amount in the forthcoming two-day auction affair.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kohli-opens-up-on-delhi-franchises-decision-to-choose-pradeep-sangwan-over-him-in-maiden-ipl-auction-449482">Kohli opens up on Delhi franchise's decision to choose Pradeep Sangwan over him in maiden IPL auction</a>

"In my opinion, Ishan Kishan will be the most expensive opener at the IPL 2022 Auction. He could actually be the most expensive player, one out of him or Shreyas Iyer could be the most expensive. I won't be surprised if it is Ishan Kishan," Chopra said in a video on his YouTube channel.

He further stressed on the role of the openers and said, "The openers make or break the game. They have the ability because they have a lot of time. The problem in T20 is that you don't have time, it gets over very quickly. In such a case if you are an opener, you can decide the tempo of the match. KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Quinton de Kock, Shikhar Dhawan - you have seen a lot of players like that."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/it-was-disappointing-to-lose-shubman-gill-coach-brendon-mccullum-explains-why-kkr-released-star-batter-448916">'It was disappointing to lose Shubman Gill': Coach Brendon McCullum explains why KKR released star batter</a>

It will be interesting to see if Ishan goes for big in the auction or not. In IPL 2020, the then Mumbai Indians (MI) keeper-batter Ishan had amassed 516 runs at a strike-rate of&nbsp;145.76 with four&nbsp;half-centuries. While he didn't have a great run in IPL 2021, he is still expected to attract big money for his power-hitting and fearless style of play.

Chopra further also stated that while Bairstow and Warner will also fetch big amounts, he named Quinton de Kock as the most expensive opener among foreign players. "Ishan Kishan, Devdutt Padikkal, Quinton de Kock - I am saying the most expensive overseas opener, David Warner, Chris Lynn, Jason Roy, Jonny Bairstow - a lot of money is going to be spent. Ambati Rayudu can open, Shikhar Dhawan, Robin Uthappa, Faf du Plessis - there are a lot of openers who will present themselves as options," he concluded.

All eyes are now on the forthcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 mega auction, which is set to take place on February 12 and 13 in Bengaluru. While the two new IPL franchises -- Lucknow Super Giants and Team Ahmedabad -- will look to build their team from scratch, the other eight teams will revamp after releasing some of their marquee players.

All eyes are now on the forthcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 mega auction, which is set to take place on February 12 and 13 in Bengaluru. While the two new IPL franchises -- Lucknow Super Giants and Team Ahmedabad -- will look to build their team from scratch, the other eight teams will revamp after releasing some of their marquee players. Prior to the mega auction proceedings, which will be held in Bengaluru, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra shared his thoughts and made a bold claim while predicting the 'most expensive opener'. The likes of David Warner, Jonny Bairstow, Shikhar Dhawan, Quinton de Kock, Shubman Gill, Ishan Kishan, etc. will go under the hammer. Chopra believes Ishan will earn a whopping amount in the forthcoming two-day auction affair. ALSO READ | Kohli opens up on Delhi franchise's decision to choose Pradeep Sangwan over him in maiden IPL auction "In my opinion, Ishan Kishan will be the most expensive opener at the IPL 2022 Auction. He could actually be the most expensive player, one out of him or Shreyas Iyer could be the most expensive. I won't be surprised if it is Ishan Kishan," Chopra said in a video on his YouTube channel. He further stressed on the role of the openers and said, "The openers make or break the game. They have the ability because they have a lot of time. The problem in T20 is that you don't have time, it gets over very quickly. In such a case if you are an opener, you can decide the tempo of the match. KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Quinton de Kock, Shikhar Dhawan - you have seen a lot of players like that." ALSO READ | 'It was disappointing to lose Shubman Gill': Coach Brendon McCullum explains why KKR released star batter It will be interesting to see if Ishan goes for big in the auction or not. In IPL 2020, the then Mumbai Indians (MI) keeper-batter Ishan had amassed 516 runs at a strike-rate of 145.76 with four half-centuries. While he didn't have a great run in IPL 2021, he is still expected to attract big money for his power-hitting and fearless style of play. Chopra further also stated that while Bairstow and Warner will also fetch big amounts, he named Quinton de Kock as the most expensive opener among foreign players. "Ishan Kishan, Devdutt Padikkal, Quinton de Kock - I am saying the most expensive overseas opener, David Warner, Chris Lynn, Jason Roy, Jonny Bairstow - a lot of money is going to be spent. Ambati Rayudu can open, Shikhar Dhawan, Robin Uthappa, Faf du Plessis - there are a lot of openers who will present themselves as options," he concluded.

Not Warner or Dhawan! Chopra predicts Indian youngster as 'most expensive opener' in IPL 2022 auction

The IPL 2022 mega auction is keenly awaited. The two-day affair will be held on February 12 and 13 in Bengaluru. Ahead of the marquee event, all eyes are on the non-retained players. A lot of big-ticket players such as David Warner, R Ashwin, Shikhar Dhawan, Kagiso Rabada, Quinton de Kock, Steve Smith, etc. will make heads turn in the forthcoming auction proceedings.

Ahead of the mega auction, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra opined on David Warner and mentioned which franchise will buy his services. As of now, there are three teams who are looking for a captain. The three franchises in search of a captain are Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Punjab Kings (PBKS).&nbsp;

Chopra feels Warner's fallout with the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), in IPL 2021, will be a key factor on him missing out on captaincy role despite being a proven leader and only one of the few foreign captains to have won the coveted trophy (for SRH in 2016).&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-budget-for-the-lord-yuzvendra-chahal-pulls-shardul-thakurs-leg-ahead-of-ipl-mega-auction-448412">'No budget for the Lord': Yuzvendra Chahal pulls Shardul Thakur's leg ahead of IPL mega auction</a>

Chopra said on his Youtube channel, "They can think about it but in my opinion, they will not make him the captain. I believe David Warner will not become the captain of any team although three teams are probably looking for a skipper. Even if we leave out Punjab, still two teams are looking for a captain."

"He will definitely go to some team or the other. He will go expensive as well but no team will consider him as a captain, that is what I believe because IPL is a small family, everyone has got an idea what happened last year, what were the reasons and the problems. It hasn't really gone down very well amongst the players and the franchises," he explained.

In addition, Chopra named the franchise who can attain Warner's services in the forthcoming auction. "Whether he will be there in the team, he will go somewhere for sure. He might go to RCB. It's not a bad choice that Virat Kohli on one side and David Warner on the other, left-hand and right-hand, and both explosive."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/simply-mindboggling-from-virat-kohli-ms-dhoni-to-ab-de-villiers-top-5-earners-in-ipl-history-443658">SIMPLY MINDBOGGLING! From Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni to AB de Villiers: Top 5 earners in IPL history</a>

Warner has been a big name in IPL history. Being the fifth-highest run-getter overall (5,449), he has had a terrific run in the cash-rich league since 2014. He surpassed the 500-run mark in all seasons for SRH from 2014-2020 but captaincy issues, slow strike-rate, fallout with the team management led to his ouster from the Hyderabad camp.&nbsp;

The Aussie opener will now look to restart from scratch and regain his full flow in the IPL 2022 edition.

The IPL 2022 mega auction is keenly awaited. The two-day affair will be held on February 12 and 13 in Bengaluru. Ahead of the marquee event, all eyes are on the non-retained players.

The IPL 2022 mega auction is keenly awaited. The two-day affair will be held on February 12 and 13 in Bengaluru. Ahead of the marquee event, all eyes are on the non-retained players. A lot of big-ticket players such as David Warner, R Ashwin, Shikhar Dhawan, Kagiso Rabada, Quinton de Kock, Steve Smith, etc. will make heads turn in the forthcoming auction proceedings. Ahead of the mega auction, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra opined on David Warner and mentioned which franchise will buy his services. As of now, there are three teams who are looking for a captain. The three franchises in search of a captain are Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Punjab Kings (PBKS). Chopra feels Warner's fallout with the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), in IPL 2021, will be a key factor on him missing out on captaincy role despite being a proven leader and only one of the few foreign captains to have won the coveted trophy (for SRH in 2016). ALSO READ | 'No budget for the Lord': Yuzvendra Chahal pulls Shardul Thakur's leg ahead of IPL mega auction Chopra said on his Youtube channel, "They can think about it but in my opinion, they will not make him the captain. I believe David Warner will not become the captain of any team although three teams are probably looking for a skipper. Even if we leave out Punjab, still two teams are looking for a captain." "He will definitely go to some team or the other. He will go expensive as well but no team will consider him as a captain, that is what I believe because IPL is a small family, everyone has got an idea what happened last year, what were the reasons and the problems. It hasn't really gone down very well amongst the players and the franchises," he explained. In addition, Chopra named the franchise who can attain Warner's services in the forthcoming auction. "Whether he will be there in the team, he will go somewhere for sure. He might go to RCB. It's not a bad choice that Virat Kohli on one side and David Warner on the other, left-hand and right-hand, and both explosive." ALSO READ | SIMPLY MINDBOGGLING! From Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni to AB de Villiers: Top 5 earners in IPL history Warner has been a big name in IPL history. Being the fifth-highest run-getter overall (5,449), he has had a terrific run in the cash-rich league since 2014. He surpassed the 500-run mark in all seasons for SRH from 2014-2020 but captaincy issues, slow strike-rate, fallout with the team management led to his ouster from the Hyderabad camp. The Aussie opener will now look to restart from scratch and regain his full flow in the IPL 2022 edition.

IPL 2022: Chopra explains why Warner will miss out on captaincy, names franchise who can buy him

Indian fast bowlers will be in demand at the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 mega auction. The showpiece event is set to be held in Bengaluru next month&nbsp;where hundreds of players from across the globe will go under the hammer in a bid to get a chance to ply their trade in the world's biggest T20 league - the IPL.

All ten teams will be hoping to build a strong pace attack and the focus will be on to rope in quality Indian pacers who can contribute towards the team's success. There are a number of top Indian fast bowlers who are set to go under the hammer at the mega auction and are likely to bag big contracts.

Former India cricketer Aakash Chopra, who is also an active analyst of the game, believes Deepak Chahar can become the most expensive pick among Indian pacers at the IPL 2022 mega auction. Chahar was part of the CSK squad from IPL 2018 to 2021 season last year and has picked up 59 wickets in 63 matches in his IPL career so far.

Chahar is known for his exploits in the powerplay where he has been consistently effective throughtout his stint with CSK and has proven to be a prolific wicket-taker upfront. Chahar was reelased by CSK ahead of the mega auction as the franchise could retain only four players.

"There are a lot of names who are going to be available. There will be some fight for the Indian names. But I still believe that Deepak Chahar will be the most expensive; it's just a gut feel. There will be a lot of teams who will put money on him because he is a three-over powerplay bank," said Chopra in a video on his YouTube channel.

"He is a wicket-taker. Even if he is expensive, he will pick up wickets. He is batting alright, and is putting his case forward again and again. Deepak Chahar bowls difficult overs in the powerplay; he is maturing as a player. So I am going with Deepak Chahar as the most expensive Indian bowler in the auction," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-budget-for-the-lord-yuzvendra-chahal-pulls-shardul-thakurs-leg-ahead-of-ipl-mega-auction-448412">'No budget for the Lord': Yuzvendra Chahal pulls Shardul Thakur's leg ahead of IPL mega auction</a>

While Chopra snubbed experienced Indian campaigner Mohammed Shami, who is also in the auction pool, he backed Shardul Tahkur to also fetch a big amount at the IPL 2022 mega acution. Shardul was also part of the CSK squad last year and has enjyed a tremendous rise in the last couple of years.

"Can Shardul Thakur be the one? He can be, but will he be the most expensive? I am not a 100%, honestly, because he is a middle-overs bowler. There is one thing common between him and Deepak - that both can bat. That is another string to their bow, which is outstanding," said Chopra.&nbsp;

The IPL 2022 mega auction is all set to be conducted in Bengaluru on February 12 and 13.

Indian fast bowlers will be in demand at the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 mega auction. The showpiece event is set to be held in Bengaluru next month where hundreds of players from across the globe will go under the hammer in a bid to get a chance to ply their trade in the world's biggest T20 league - the IPL.

Indian fast bowlers will be in demand at the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 mega auction. The showpiece event is set to be held in Bengaluru next month where hundreds of players from across the globe will go under the hammer in a bid to get a chance to ply their trade in the world's biggest T20 league - the IPL. All ten teams will be hoping to build a strong pace attack and the focus will be on to rope in quality Indian pacers who can contribute towards the team's success. There are a number of top Indian fast bowlers who are set to go under the hammer at the mega auction and are likely to bag big contracts. Former India cricketer Aakash Chopra, who is also an active analyst of the game, believes Deepak Chahar can become the most expensive pick among Indian pacers at the IPL 2022 mega auction. Chahar was part of the CSK squad from IPL 2018 to 2021 season last year and has picked up 59 wickets in 63 matches in his IPL career so far. Chahar is known for his exploits in the powerplay where he has been consistently effective throughtout his stint with CSK and has proven to be a prolific wicket-taker upfront. Chahar was reelased by CSK ahead of the mega auction as the franchise could retain only four players. "There are a lot of names who are going to be available. There will be some fight for the Indian names. But I still believe that Deepak Chahar will be the most expensive; it's just a gut feel. There will be a lot of teams who will put money on him because he is a three-over powerplay bank," said Chopra in a video on his YouTube channel. "He is a wicket-taker. Even if he is expensive, he will pick up wickets. He is batting alright, and is putting his case forward again and again. Deepak Chahar bowls difficult overs in the powerplay; he is maturing as a player. So I am going with Deepak Chahar as the most expensive Indian bowler in the auction," he added. Also Read: 'No budget for the Lord': Yuzvendra Chahal pulls Shardul Thakur's leg ahead of IPL mega auction While Chopra snubbed experienced Indian campaigner Mohammed Shami, who is also in the auction pool, he backed Shardul Tahkur to also fetch a big amount at the IPL 2022 mega acution. Shardul was also part of the CSK squad last year and has enjyed a tremendous rise in the last couple of years. "Can Shardul Thakur be the one? He can be, but will he be the most expensive? I am not a 100%, honestly, because he is a middle-overs bowler. There is one thing common between him and Deepak - that both can bat. That is another string to their bow, which is outstanding," said Chopra. The IPL 2022 mega auction is all set to be conducted in Bengaluru on February 12 and 13.

Md. Shami or Deepak Chahar? Aakash Chopra predicts most expensive Indian pacer at IPL mega auction

Virat Kohli's shocking decision to leave India's Test captaincy has become the major talking point across the Indian cricket fraternity. Kohli announced his surprising decision on social media last week, confirming that his time as the captain of the Indian Test team had come to a halt and that he will not be leading the side anymore.

His announcement came a day after India's 2-1 defeat in the three-match series against South Africa. His decision to relinquish captaincy has led to an ever-rising debate over who should be India's new skipper in the longest format with several former cricketers and experts sharing their views.

Recently former India captain and batting legend Sunil Gavaskar backed Rishabh Pant as an ideal candidate to take over the top post. Former India opener and cricket expert Aakash Chopra has also given his take on the raging debate and picked three strong contenders who can replace Kohli as the leader of the Indian team in whites.

As per reports, limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma is likely to take over in all three formats and become India's new Test skipper. However, Chopra believes Rohit's recent injury issues raise serious questions about his fitness. Chopra suggested the Test captaincy burden might prove to be too much for the 34-year-old.

"Rohit Sharma seems to be the most obvious choice because he is the ODI and T20I captain at the moment and the last one year was a watershed event for him in Tests. But there are serious questions about his fitness because the hamstring is troubling him since 2020. In theory, it seems alright but will he be able to remain fit?," Chopra said in a video on his Youtube channel.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/yuvraj-singh-reacts-as-sunil-gavaskar-picks-rishsbh-pant-to-replace-virat-kohli-as-indias-new-test-captain-445365">Yuvraj reacts as&nbsp;Gavaskar picks&nbsp;Pant to replace Kohli as India's new Test captain</a>

However, Chopra insisted he would still back Rohit to take over as the new Test captain while also naming KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant as the other two contenders for the top job. Rahul served as India's designated vice-captain in the Test series against South Africa and also led the team in the second Test against the Proteas in Johannesburg. Both Rahul and Pant have led their respective IPL teams as well.

"My vote is for Rohit Sharma as of now, short-term. Second is KL Rahul - you can go with him. Rishabh Pant is the third, it is a slightly left-field or out-of-the-box selection, you can also look towards him," Chopra said.

With India scheduled to play Sri Lanka in a Test series at home next month, the BCCI and selectors are expected to announce the new captain of the Indian Test team soon.&nbsp;

Virat Kohli's shocking decision to leave India's Test captaincy has become the major talking point across the Indian cricket fraternity. Kohli announced his surprising decision on social media last week, confirming that his time as the captain of the Indian Test team had come to a halt and that he will not be leading the side anymore.

Virat Kohli's shocking decision to leave India's Test captaincy has become the major talking point across the Indian cricket fraternity. Kohli announced his surprising decision on social media last week, confirming that his time as the captain of the Indian Test team had come to a halt and that he will not be leading the side anymore. His announcement came a day after India's 2-1 defeat in the three-match series against South Africa. His decision to relinquish captaincy has led to an ever-rising debate over who should be India's new skipper in the longest format with several former cricketers and experts sharing their views. Recently former India captain and batting legend Sunil Gavaskar backed Rishabh Pant as an ideal candidate to take over the top post. Former India opener and cricket expert Aakash Chopra has also given his take on the raging debate and picked three strong contenders who can replace Kohli as the leader of the Indian team in whites. As per reports, limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma is likely to take over in all three formats and become India's new Test skipper. However, Chopra believes Rohit's recent injury issues raise serious questions about his fitness. Chopra suggested the Test captaincy burden might prove to be too much for the 34-year-old. "Rohit Sharma seems to be the most obvious choice because he is the ODI and T20I captain at the moment and the last one year was a watershed event for him in Tests. But there are serious questions about his fitness because the hamstring is troubling him since 2020. In theory, it seems alright but will he be able to remain fit?," Chopra said in a video on his Youtube channel. Also Read: Yuvraj reacts as Gavaskar picks Pant to replace Kohli as India's new Test captain However, Chopra insisted he would still back Rohit to take over as the new Test captain while also naming KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant as the other two contenders for the top job. Rahul served as India's designated vice-captain in the Test series against South Africa and also led the team in the second Test against the Proteas in Johannesburg. Both Rahul and Pant have led their respective IPL teams as well. "My vote is for Rohit Sharma as of now, short-term. Second is KL Rahul - you can go with him. Rishabh Pant is the third, it is a slightly left-field or out-of-the-box selection, you can also look towards him," Chopra said. With India scheduled to play Sri Lanka in a Test series at home next month, the BCCI and selectors are expected to announce the new captain of the Indian Test team soon.

'Serious questions on Rohit Sharma's fitness': Ex-India cricketer picks 3 contenders to captain India in Tests

Former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra has opened up on Test captain Virat Kohli's mode of dismissals in recent times. For the unversed, the 33-year-old Indian batter hasn't been able to score an international ton since late 2019 and averages only 26.08 in Tests since early 2020.&nbsp;

Hence, Chopra opened up on Kohli's failures, who is out of the ongoing second Test between India and South Africa at The Wanderers, Johannesburg. The 33-year-old Kohli didn't impress even in the series opener of the three-match Tests versus SA, returning with scores of 35 and 18. In addition, his dismissals were identical by flashing away from the off-stump line.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kohli-has-similar-numbers-but-people-arent-questioning-him-nehra-reacts-to-criticism-of-rahane-and-pujara-442162">Kohli has similar numbers but people aren't questioning him: Nehra reacts to criticism of Rahane and Pujara</a>

Thus, Chopra said&nbsp;on the Byju's Cricket Live Show on Star Sports on Day 1 of the J'burg Test on Monday (January 3), "Kohli can show a bit more patience. Remember the new year's Test match, Sydney 2004 when Sachin Tendulkar was getting out driving and then he didn't play a single drive. I'm not saying go down that road because Sachin had more shots as compared to Virat but then, this is the recipe."

"I don't think Kohli has too much of an issue playing the bouncers. It's just about knowing where your off-stump is. Trusting the bounce a little more so you can leave the ball a little more. It doesn't necessarily have to be on line. You don't even need to misread the line; you're not going to get bowled because the ball will be going over the stumps," added Chopra.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/one-of-the-two-have-to-karthik-makes-bold-claim-predicts-who-could-miss-out-on-virat-kohlis-return-442147">'One of the two have to...' - Karthik makes bold claim, predicts who could miss out on Virat Kohli's return</a>

Kohli will be eager to return to full fitness and play the third and final Test against the Dean Elgar-led Proteas. He will also like to start 2022 with a bang by breaking is century-drought.&nbsp;

Former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra has opened up on Test captain Virat Kohli's mode of dismissals in recent times. For the unversed, the 33-year-old Indian batter hasn't been able to score an international ton since late 2019 and averages only 26.

Former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra has opened up on Test captain Virat Kohli's mode of dismissals in recent times. For the unversed, the 33-year-old Indian batter hasn't been able to score an international ton since late 2019 and averages only 26.08 in Tests since early 2020. Hence, Chopra opened up on Kohli's failures, who is out of the ongoing second Test between India and South Africa at The Wanderers, Johannesburg. The 33-year-old Kohli didn't impress even in the series opener of the three-match Tests versus SA, returning with scores of 35 and 18. In addition, his dismissals were identical by flashing away from the off-stump line. ALSO READ | Kohli has similar numbers but people aren't questioning him: Nehra reacts to criticism of Rahane and Pujara Thus, Chopra said on the Byju's Cricket Live Show on Star Sports on Day 1 of the J'burg Test on Monday (January 3), "Kohli can show a bit more patience. Remember the new year's Test match, Sydney 2004 when Sachin Tendulkar was getting out driving and then he didn't play a single drive. I'm not saying go down that road because Sachin had more shots as compared to Virat but then, this is the recipe." "I don't think Kohli has too much of an issue playing the bouncers. It's just about knowing where your off-stump is. Trusting the bounce a little more so you can leave the ball a little more. It doesn't necessarily have to be on line. You don't even need to misread the line; you're not going to get bowled because the ball will be going over the stumps," added Chopra. ALSO READ | 'One of the two have to...' - Karthik makes bold claim, predicts who could miss out on Virat Kohli's return Kohli will be eager to return to full fitness and play the third and final Test against the Dean Elgar-led Proteas. He will also like to start 2022 with a bang by breaking is century-drought.

SRT had more shots as compared to Kohli: Aakash Chopra weighs-in on Indian Test captain's dismissals

Cheteshwar Pujara's woeful run with the bat continued on Day 1 of the second and penultimate Test between India and South Africa on Monday (January 3). After stand-in captain KL Rahul won the toss and opted to bat first, India started off decently to reach 36 for no loss before they were quickly reduced to 49-3 in no time.

After Mayank Agarwal (26) was the first wicket to fall on the day, No. 3 batter Pujara was expected to grind it out in the middle with no Virat Kohli in the line-up, due to upper back spasm. However, nothing of that sort happened as the 33-year-old perished for cheap (3), falling to a well-executed short-pitched delivery from SA's pacer&nbsp;Duanne Olivier.

With another failure, Pujara is surely running against time to hold onto his Test spot. For the unversed, the right-hander's last triple-figure knock came in early 2019 versus Australia Down Under. Since then, he has had vital fifty-plus scores under his belt, however, the senior pro has failed to convert them. Moreover, Pujara has fallen to short-pitched balls or being beaten by the incoming deliveries.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-is-the-type-of-person-you-want-ex-pak-skipper-all-praise-for-rahul-dravid-for-backing-virat-kohli-441979">'This is the type of person you want...': Ex-Pak skipper all praise for Rahul Dravid for backing Virat Kohli</a>

Former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra decoded Pujara's failures in the lunch break and told on Star Sports, "He is not even hitting the half volley with full might and we can an uncanny pattern in his dismissals. He had nicked Ngidi's delivery in the first innings of the Centurion Test. If we look at his hands and the height of the delivery, why is he even trying to play off the front foot instead of using the depth of the crease."

"If you are always lunging forward with low hands, bowlers are going to enjoy bowling against you on South African pitches. Extra bounce, low hands, lunging forward… that's a recipe for disaster," he added.

To showcase Pujara's woes, he&nbsp;has now gone 45 innings without a century. Thus, former South Africa pacer Morne Morkel also spoke at length about the short ball ploy used against Pujara and said,&nbsp;"He needs to find a way to get off the strike in South Africa and have that intent to score. There is no better feeling bowler when you run in and know that the batter is not trying to take you on."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pujara-and-rahane-have-just-the-next-innings-to-save-their-test-careers-says-sunil-gavaskar-as-duo-fail-again-441970">Pujara and Rahane have just the next innings to save their Test careers, says Sunil Gavaskar as duo fail again</a>

India are without regular captain Kohli in the second Test in Johannesburg. The visitors have lost more than half the side for 150 after opting to bat first. They will hope to post anything over 220 and then challenge the Dean Elgar-led Proteas with the red cherry in hand.

Cheteshwar Pujara's woeful run with the bat continued on Day 1 of the second and penultimate Test between India and South Africa on Monday (January 3). After stand-in captain KL Rahul won the toss and opted to bat first, India started off decently to reach 36 for no loss before they were quickly reduced to 49-3 in no time.

Cheteshwar Pujara's woeful run with the bat continued on Day 1 of the second and penultimate Test between India and South Africa on Monday (January 3). After stand-in captain KL Rahul won the toss and opted to bat first, India started off decently to reach 36 for no loss before they were quickly reduced to 49-3 in no time. After Mayank Agarwal (26) was the first wicket to fall on the day, No. 3 batter Pujara was expected to grind it out in the middle with no Virat Kohli in the line-up, due to upper back spasm. However, nothing of that sort happened as the 33-year-old perished for cheap (3), falling to a well-executed short-pitched delivery from SA's pacer Duanne Olivier. With another failure, Pujara is surely running against time to hold onto his Test spot. For the unversed, the right-hander's last triple-figure knock came in early 2019 versus Australia Down Under. Since then, he has had vital fifty-plus scores under his belt, however, the senior pro has failed to convert them. Moreover, Pujara has fallen to short-pitched balls or being beaten by the incoming deliveries. ALSO READ | 'This is the type of person you want...': Ex-Pak skipper all praise for Rahul Dravid for backing Virat Kohli Former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra decoded Pujara's failures in the lunch break and told on Star Sports, "He is not even hitting the half volley with full might and we can an uncanny pattern in his dismissals. He had nicked Ngidi's delivery in the first innings of the Centurion Test. If we look at his hands and the height of the delivery, why is he even trying to play off the front foot instead of using the depth of the crease." "If you are always lunging forward with low hands, bowlers are going to enjoy bowling against you on South African pitches. Extra bounce, low hands, lunging forward… that's a recipe for disaster," he added. To showcase Pujara's woes, he has now gone 45 innings without a century. Thus, former South Africa pacer Morne Morkel also spoke at length about the short ball ploy used against Pujara and said, "He needs to find a way to get off the strike in South Africa and have that intent to score. There is no better feeling bowler when you run in and know that the batter is not trying to take you on." ALSO READ | Pujara and Rahane have just the next innings to save their Test careers, says Sunil Gavaskar as duo fail again India are without regular captain Kohli in the second Test in Johannesburg. The visitors have lost more than half the side for 150 after opting to bat first. They will hope to post anything over 220 and then challenge the Dean Elgar-led Proteas with the red cherry in hand.

IND vs SA, 2nd Test: Aakash Chopra points out 'uncanny pattern' to Pujara's dismissals amid his struggles

On Friday (December 31), the chairman of the selection committee Chetan Sharma addressed a press conference for the first time ever since taking over the top post. In the PC, Chetan opened up on several aspects pertaining to Indian cricket in recent times.

The most talked-about issue in Indian cricket, in recent times, has been the contradictory claims made by BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly and Virat Kohli regarding the latter's decision of quitting as T20I captain and the ODI captaincy switch. Hence, the former cricketer opened up on the Kohli vs BCCI row and said that the board and selectors had spoken to Kohli to reconsider his decision of resigning as the T20I skipper.

Thus, the controversy hasn't ended whereas it has become more complex given Chetan Sharma's statement, supporting Ganguly against Kohli. For the unversed, the 33-year-old Kohli had denied all claims of being asked to reconsider his decision. Amid all this, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra feels the story hasn't ended and one can expect some response from Kohli in the near future.

In a video on his YouTube channel, Chopra said: "A little more fuel has been added to the fire which was already there because the clarification has come from the BCCI via Chetan Sharma, who is the chairman of selectors."

"Chetan Sharma has issued a clarification that we all had asked Virat not to leave the T20I captaincy, that its timing is not correct; there will be an impact on the World Cup but the captain did not agree," he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sometimes-i-read-reports-and-laugh-chetan-sharma-reacts-to-virat-kohli-rohit-sharma-rift-rumours-441627">Sometimes I read reports and laugh: Chetan Sharma reacts to Virat Kohli-Rohit Sharma rift rumours</a>

He further asserted, "Everyone who was there in the selection committee meeting - selectors, BCCI officials, convenor - all present, requested Virat Kohli to not step down. This is Chetan Sharma's quote, but the captain said he wanted to step down. Captain had said no one had asked him anything, and everyone said it is a very progressive step."

"There should be no rumours and sources in 2022 although, after Chetan Sharma's statement, the shots might have been fired and maybe there will be reciprocation from Virat Kohli's side as well because till now that is what is happening - one person says something and the other refutes. It's not really nice, but then if it happens, don't be surprised."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/odi-captaincy-row-kl-rahul-as-future-captain-major-talking-points-from-chetan-sharmas-press-conference-441599">ODI captaincy row, KL Rahul as future captain: Major talking points from Chetan Sharma's press conference</a>

At present, Kohli will be focused in leading India to their maiden Test series triumph on South African soil as the national side took a 1-0 lead, versus the Proteas, in the three-match series opener at Centurion on December 30. The second Test will get underway on January 3 at The Wanderers, Johannesburg.&nbsp;

Kohli will like to silence his critics in style by leading India to a Test series win in SA and only then comment on the captaincy row, if he further has to.

On Friday (December 31), the chairman of the selection committee Chetan Sharma addressed a press conference for the first time ever since taking over the top post.

On Friday (December 31), the chairman of the selection committee Chetan Sharma addressed a press conference for the first time ever since taking over the top post. In the PC, Chetan opened up on several aspects pertaining to Indian cricket in recent times. The most talked-about issue in Indian cricket, in recent times, has been the contradictory claims made by BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly and Virat Kohli regarding the latter's decision of quitting as T20I captain and the ODI captaincy switch. Hence, the former cricketer opened up on the Kohli vs BCCI row and said that the board and selectors had spoken to Kohli to reconsider his decision of resigning as the T20I skipper. Thus, the controversy hasn't ended whereas it has become more complex given Chetan Sharma's statement, supporting Ganguly against Kohli. For the unversed, the 33-year-old Kohli had denied all claims of being asked to reconsider his decision. Amid all this, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra feels the story hasn't ended and one can expect some response from Kohli in the near future. In a video on his YouTube channel, Chopra said: "A little more fuel has been added to the fire which was already there because the clarification has come from the BCCI via Chetan Sharma, who is the chairman of selectors." "Chetan Sharma has issued a clarification that we all had asked Virat not to leave the T20I captaincy, that its timing is not correct; there will be an impact on the World Cup but the captain did not agree," he added. ALSO READ | Sometimes I read reports and laugh: Chetan Sharma reacts to Virat Kohli-Rohit Sharma rift rumours He further asserted, "Everyone who was there in the selection committee meeting - selectors, BCCI officials, convenor - all present, requested Virat Kohli to not step down. This is Chetan Sharma's quote, but the captain said he wanted to step down. Captain had said no one had asked him anything, and everyone said it is a very progressive step." "There should be no rumours and sources in 2022 although, after Chetan Sharma's statement, the shots might have been fired and maybe there will be reciprocation from Virat Kohli's side as well because till now that is what is happening - one person says something and the other refutes. It's not really nice, but then if it happens, don't be surprised." ALSO READ | ODI captaincy row, KL Rahul as future captain: Major talking points from Chetan Sharma's press conference At present, Kohli will be focused in leading India to their maiden Test series triumph on South African soil as the national side took a 1-0 lead, versus the Proteas, in the three-match series opener at Centurion on December 30. The second Test will get underway on January 3 at The Wanderers, Johannesburg. Kohli will like to silence his critics in style by leading India to a Test series win in SA and only then comment on the captaincy row, if he further has to.

There will be reciprocation from Virat Kohli's side, predicts Aakash Chopra post Chetan Sharma's PC

India romped past South Africa by 113 runs to win the first Test at SuperSpork Park, Centurion on Thursday (December 30). Setting up a target of 305 runs, Virat Kohli-led India had accounted for 4 wickets of the Proteas in the final innings at stumps on Day 4 and wrapped up the proceedings in the second session of the final day on Thursday.

With this, India achieved their first-ever Test win at Centurion, a venue where South Africa were unbeaten since 2014. Thus, Kohli &amp; Co. have taken a 1-0 lead and will be aiming to win their maiden Test series in the African nation when the second and penultimate Test commences on January 3, at The Wanderers, Johannesburg.&nbsp;

Talking about the Centurion Test win, KL Rahul's 123 and Mayank Agarwal's 60 (both in the first innings) were the top-performers for India with the bat whereas the seamers led the charge with the red cherry. Jasprit Bumrah ended with five scalps in the mach, Mohammed Shami finished with an eight-wicket haul whereas Mohammed Siraj accounted for three wickets and Shardul Thakur took two wickets in the entire contest (taking 18 out of the 20 Proteas scalps). The likes of Ishant Sharma and Umesh Yadav warmed the bench; depicting the solid bench strength of the Indian pace battery at present.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/a-look-at-plethora-of-records-achieved-by-virat-kohli-as-india-thrash-south-africa-in-centurion-441243">A look at plethora of records achieved by Virat Kohli as India thrash South Africa in Centurion</a>

After the Centurion Test, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra, in a video on his YouTube channel, reserved the title of 'special' for Bumrah. However, when it came to naming the No. 1 speedster in the Indian team taking all venues into account in whites, the former opener picked Shami.

"You look at Bumrah because he's special. But if we equalize every condition, India's number one Test pacer is Mohammad Shami, especially at this point in time. He asks questions with the delivery of his. He took five wickets against this team in Vishakhapatnam as well and now he took a fifer at Centurion," Chopra explained.

"We saw sideways movement from Ngidi, Rabada's pace and saw Bumrah's magic. But what about Shami? Shami doesn't bowl a magic delivery like Bumrah does. But he bowls on dangerous areas consistently and releases the ball with so close to the stumps. Who bowled the most deliveries on fourth stump? Who bowled the maximum deliveries that were hitting on top of off? - It was sensational Shami," he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-lauds-india-bowlers-after-centurion-test-win-lavishes-huge-praise-on-mohammed-shami-441184">Virat Kohli lauds India bowlers after Centurion Test win, lavishes huge praise on Mohammed Shami</a>

"Jasprit Bumrah is a national asset. He's a treasure. We are so fortunate that our fast bowling unit has matured together. Bumrah took important wickets at important phases of the game. He set the tone by dismissing Dean Elgar in the very first over (first innings). Then, on Day 4 when there was a partnership building up for South Africa, he bowled a magical ball to van der Dussen. Then Keshav Maharaj came to the crease, and mind you, he bats well."

"Bumrah wonderfully bowled a yorker to dismiss him. He then took Elgar out again but with a different kind of a delivery. I mean he (Bumrah) is brilliant, man," the former cricketer opined.

India will now shift their focus to winning the second Test and claim their first-ever series on African soil. In 2006/07 tour of SA, India had taken a 1-0 lead under current head coach Rahul Dravid, however, lost the plot from thereon to lose 2-1. Hence, the national side will be eager for history to not repeat itself this time around.

India romped past South Africa by 113 runs to win the first Test at SuperSpork Park, Centurion on Thursday (December 30). Setting up a target of 305 runs, Virat Kohli-led India had accounted for 4 wickets of the Proteas in the final innings at stumps on Day 4 and wrapped up the proceedings in the second session of the final day on Thursday.

India romped past South Africa by 113 runs to win the first Test at SuperSpork Park, Centurion on Thursday (December 30). Setting up a target of 305 runs, Virat Kohli-led India had accounted for 4 wickets of the Proteas in the final innings at stumps on Day 4 and wrapped up the proceedings in the second session of the final day on Thursday. With this, India achieved their first-ever Test win at Centurion, a venue where South Africa were unbeaten since 2014. Thus, Kohli & Co. have taken a 1-0 lead and will be aiming to win their maiden Test series in the African nation when the second and penultimate Test commences on January 3, at The Wanderers, Johannesburg. Talking about the Centurion Test win, KL Rahul's 123 and Mayank Agarwal's 60 (both in the first innings) were the top-performers for India with the bat whereas the seamers led the charge with the red cherry. Jasprit Bumrah ended with five scalps in the mach, Mohammed Shami finished with an eight-wicket haul whereas Mohammed Siraj accounted for three wickets and Shardul Thakur took two wickets in the entire contest (taking 18 out of the 20 Proteas scalps). The likes of Ishant Sharma and Umesh Yadav warmed the bench; depicting the solid bench strength of the Indian pace battery at present. ALSO READ | A look at plethora of records achieved by Virat Kohli as India thrash South Africa in Centurion After the Centurion Test, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra, in a video on his YouTube channel, reserved the title of 'special' for Bumrah. However, when it came to naming the No. 1 speedster in the Indian team taking all venues into account in whites, the former opener picked Shami. "You look at Bumrah because he's special. But if we equalize every condition, India's number one Test pacer is Mohammad Shami, especially at this point in time. He asks questions with the delivery of his. He took five wickets against this team in Vishakhapatnam as well and now he took a fifer at Centurion," Chopra explained. "We saw sideways movement from Ngidi, Rabada's pace and saw Bumrah's magic. But what about Shami? Shami doesn't bowl a magic delivery like Bumrah does. But he bowls on dangerous areas consistently and releases the ball with so close to the stumps. Who bowled the most deliveries on fourth stump? Who bowled the maximum deliveries that were hitting on top of off? - It was sensational Shami," he added. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli lauds India bowlers after Centurion Test win, lavishes huge praise on Mohammed Shami "Jasprit Bumrah is a national asset. He's a treasure. We are so fortunate that our fast bowling unit has matured together. Bumrah took important wickets at important phases of the game. He set the tone by dismissing Dean Elgar in the very first over (first innings). Then, on Day 4 when there was a partnership building up for South Africa, he bowled a magical ball to van der Dussen. Then Keshav Maharaj came to the crease, and mind you, he bats well." "Bumrah wonderfully bowled a yorker to dismiss him. He then took Elgar out again but with a different kind of a delivery. I mean he (Bumrah) is brilliant, man," the former cricketer opined. India will now shift their focus to winning the second Test and claim their first-ever series on African soil. In 2006/07 tour of SA, India had taken a 1-0 lead under current head coach Rahul Dravid, however, lost the plot from thereon to lose 2-1. Hence, the national side will be eager for history to not repeat itself this time around.

Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami or Mohammed Siraj? Aakash Chopra names India's No. 1 pacer in Tests

Many were left surprised as India decided to name struggling senior batter Ajinkya Rahane in the playing XI for the first Test against South Africa that got underway at the SuperSport Park in Centurion on Sunday (December 26). It was not an easy call from the team management as Rahane has been undergoing a lean patch in the longest format for quite a while now.

India went with a total of five bowlers in the first Test as Shardul Thakur was picked as an all-rounder along with R Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj and Mohammed Shami. Five bowlers meant, India had to do away with an extra batter in the playing XI as Shreyas Iyer and Hanuma Vihari both failed to make the cut for the series-opener.

Former Indian cricketers Aakash Chopra and Ajit Agarkar both were left unhappy with Rahane's selection over Iyer and Vihari as they questioned his spot in the playing XI. Chopra said it could be the last throw of dice from the Indian team management, hoping that Rahane could deliver and spark a turnaround for himself.

"Shreyas Iyer doesn't find a place in the spot and you've gone with Rahane, I think so it's the last throw of dice, hoping that it comes alright. If it doesn't, I think this is going to be a huge Test match for him," Chopra said on Star Sports.

Chopra also questioned India's decision to select five bowlers in the playing XI for the first Test, stating that South Africa's batting line-up isn't too strong at present and has not been setting the world on fire. Chopra said four bowlers would have been enough for India considering there is help for fast bowlers on the greenish track in Centurion.

“We have gone with five bowlers, personally I thought four were enough. I think if there is help in the surface for the faster bowlers, look at the opposition their batting is really not setting the world on fire four should be enough between three fast bowlers and Ashwin," said Chopra.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/horrendous-to-leave-him-out-fans-react-as-hanuma-vihari-excluded-from-playing-xi-for-1st-test-vs-sa-440119">&nbsp;'Horrendous to leave him out': Fans react as Hanuma Vihari excluded from playing XI for 1st Test vs SA</a>

Agarkar also agreed with Chopra's views on India's playing XI and said Rahane should not have been picked over the likes of Iyer and Vihari. While Iyer recently made a fantastic debut in the two-match Test series against New Zealand at home, Vihari slammed three half-centuries for India A on their tour of South Africa.

"Rahane did miss the last Test India played in Mumbai due to a niggle so you can say he's back in because he is an experienced campaigner, has done well before in these conditions. But I'm with Aakash, I would have either picked Vihari or Shreyas Iyer," said Agarkar. 
&nbsp;

Many were left surprised as India decided to name struggling senior batter Ajinkya Rahane in the playing XI for the first Test against South Africa that got underway at the SuperSport Park in Centurion on Sunday (December 26).

Many were left surprised as India decided to name struggling senior batter Ajinkya Rahane in the playing XI for the first Test against South Africa that got underway at the SuperSport Park in Centurion on Sunday (December 26). It was not an easy call from the team management as Rahane has been undergoing a lean patch in the longest format for quite a while now. India went with a total of five bowlers in the first Test as Shardul Thakur was picked as an all-rounder along with R Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj and Mohammed Shami. Five bowlers meant, India had to do away with an extra batter in the playing XI as Shreyas Iyer and Hanuma Vihari both failed to make the cut for the series-opener. Former Indian cricketers Aakash Chopra and Ajit Agarkar both were left unhappy with Rahane's selection over Iyer and Vihari as they questioned his spot in the playing XI. Chopra said it could be the last throw of dice from the Indian team management, hoping that Rahane could deliver and spark a turnaround for himself. "Shreyas Iyer doesn't find a place in the spot and you've gone with Rahane, I think so it's the last throw of dice, hoping that it comes alright. If it doesn't, I think this is going to be a huge Test match for him," Chopra said on Star Sports. Chopra also questioned India's decision to select five bowlers in the playing XI for the first Test, stating that South Africa's batting line-up isn't too strong at present and has not been setting the world on fire. Chopra said four bowlers would have been enough for India considering there is help for fast bowlers on the greenish track in Centurion. “We have gone with five bowlers, personally I thought four were enough. I think if there is help in the surface for the faster bowlers, look at the opposition their batting is really not setting the world on fire four should be enough between three fast bowlers and Ashwin," said Chopra. Also Read: 'Horrendous to leave him out': Fans react as Hanuma Vihari excluded from playing XI for 1st Test vs SA Agarkar also agreed with Chopra's views on India's playing XI and said Rahane should not have been picked over the likes of Iyer and Vihari. While Iyer recently made a fantastic debut in the two-match Test series against New Zealand at home, Vihari slammed three half-centuries for India A on their tour of South Africa. "Rahane did miss the last Test India played in Mumbai due to a niggle so you can say he's back in because he is an experienced campaigner, has done well before in these conditions. But I'm with Aakash, I would have either picked Vihari or Shreyas Iyer," said Agarkar.

'Last throw of dice': Aakash Chopra, Ajit Agarkar question Rahane's selection over Vihari, Iyer in 1st Test

India are all set to take on South Africa in a three-match Test series starting from December 26. The first Test will be a Boxing Day game that gets underway at the SuperSport Park in Centurion from Sunday. India are heading into the series on a confident note after defeating world Test champions New Zealand 1-0 in the recently-concluded two-match series at home but the South Africa series will be one of the most challenging assignments for the Virat Kohli-led side.

India have never won a Test series in South Africa and have managed only three wins in Test matches in the Rainbow nation so far in their cricketing history. India have always found it difficult to take down the Proteas in their own backyard in the longest format of the game.

However, with a South Africa team that is currently not on top of its game, and India running high on confidence with a number of talented players in their line-up, it might be a different result this time around. However, former India opener and popular commentator Aakash Chopra believes India won't be able to win the Test series in South Africa this year as well.

Speaking in a video shared on his YouTube channel, Chopra predicted the three-match series to end in a 1-1 draw. He said he would have predicted South Africa to win it 2-1 but an injury to their premie pacer Anrich Nortje has improved India's chances in the Test series. Not just Nortje, South Africa are also set to miss Quinton De Kock for a part of the series.

"I don't see India winning this right now, I mean it is difficult. I would have said 2-1 for South Africa if Nortje was playing. Nortje is not there, I am saying this series can again end at 1-1. There is a chance of a drawn Test match, the first Test could be in slight trouble because of rain," said Chopra.

"It is going to be interesting but I feel this might be a drawn series. 51% South Africa, 49% India. That's what I am thinking at this point in time. If any team wins, I feel that will be South Africa," he added.

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South Africa are no more the giants of Test cricket that they once were and have had to deal with a fair share of their own struggles. The team is in transition and will also miss former captain Faf du Plessis, who has already retired from the longest format. While admitting that the current South Africa side has not been able to produce the desired results, Chopra said the hosts have started to regroup well recently.

"It is not that South Africa's team is flying high. I think they are starting to regroup really well. The World Cup has shown that they have the players, where the things are falling in place but it is still a team in transition," said the former India batter.

India have their best chance to win a Test series in South Africa this year considering the talent and experience in their squad and the lack of big names in the South Africa line-up. Kohli, who has led India to some phenomenal wins overseas, will be looking to script history by inspiring the team to their maiden triumph against the Proteas in their own backyard.

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India are all set to take on South Africa in a three-match Test series starting from December 26. The first Test will be a Boxing Day game that gets underway at the SuperSport Park in Centurion from Sunday.

India are all set to take on South Africa in a three-match Test series starting from December 26. The first Test will be a Boxing Day game that gets underway at the SuperSport Park in Centurion from Sunday. India are heading into the series on a confident note after defeating world Test champions New Zealand 1-0 in the recently-concluded two-match series at home but the South Africa series will be one of the most challenging assignments for the Virat Kohli-led side. India have never won a Test series in South Africa and have managed only three wins in Test matches in the Rainbow nation so far in their cricketing history. India have always found it difficult to take down the Proteas in their own backyard in the longest format of the game. However, with a South Africa team that is currently not on top of its game, and India running high on confidence with a number of talented players in their line-up, it might be a different result this time around. However, former India opener and popular commentator Aakash Chopra believes India won't be able to win the Test series in South Africa this year as well. Speaking in a video shared on his YouTube channel, Chopra predicted the three-match series to end in a 1-1 draw. He said he would have predicted South Africa to win it 2-1 but an injury to their premie pacer Anrich Nortje has improved India's chances in the Test series. Not just Nortje, South Africa are also set to miss Quinton De Kock for a part of the series. "I don't see India winning this right now, I mean it is difficult. I would have said 2-1 for South Africa if Nortje was playing. Nortje is not there, I am saying this series can again end at 1-1. There is a chance of a drawn Test match, the first Test could be in slight trouble because of rain," said Chopra. "It is going to be interesting but I feel this might be a drawn series. 51% South Africa, 49% India. That's what I am thinking at this point in time. If any team wins, I feel that will be South Africa," he added. Also Read: Explained! Why series-opener between India-South Africa will be called Boxing Day Test? South Africa are no more the giants of Test cricket that they once were and have had to deal with a fair share of their own struggles. The team is in transition and will also miss former captain Faf du Plessis, who has already retired from the longest format. While admitting that the current South Africa side has not been able to produce the desired results, Chopra said the hosts have started to regroup well recently. "It is not that South Africa's team is flying high. I think they are starting to regroup really well. The World Cup has shown that they have the players, where the things are falling in place but it is still a team in transition," said the former India batter. India have their best chance to win a Test series in South Africa this year considering the talent and experience in their squad and the lack of big names in the South Africa line-up. Kohli, who has led India to some phenomenal wins overseas, will be looking to script history by inspiring the team to their maiden triumph against the Proteas in their own backyard.

'Don't see India winning this': Former opener makes bold prediction ahead of South Africa Test series

There has been a lot happening in Indian cricket at present. Before the South Africa tour, the BCCI named Rohit Sharma as Team India's limited-overs captain. While Hitman had already succeeded Virat Kohli as the T20I captain -- post the latter's resignation -- Rohit took over from Kohli in ODIs as the selectors went ahead with only one captain in white-ball formats.

While many speculated things weren't ideal between Rohit and Kohli post the ODI captaincy switch, Kohli addressed the media in BCCI's customary press conference before the SA tour and contradicted from BCCI's claims; i.e. regarding T20I captaincy resignation, or whether he had prior communication before his ODI captaincy sacking and if he was willing to skip the SA ODIs. Thus, things aren't at its best between Kohli and the Indian cricket board.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/main-objective-is-to-play-for-the-country-former-pak-captain-defends-bccis-silence-over-kohli-presser-row-438496">Main objective is to play for the country: Former Pak captain defends BCCI's silence over Kohli presser row</a>

In a video on his YouTube channel, former Indian opener Aakash Chopra feels that discussions should've taken place between the concerned parties before the ODI captaincy change took place.

"It could have definitely been handled better, let's be very very honest. There are a lot of things which could have been better where they could have asked or had a discussion. You don't actually need to ask when you are removing someone as a captain. You just need to tell but it could have been handled a little better, that you acknowledge that the captain has done very well but now you are moving ahead and all of that. That communication could have happened," Chopra opined.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-test-and-odi-series-against-south-africa-to-be-played-behind-closed-doors-due-to-covid-19-438506">India's Test and ODI series against South Africa to be played behind closed doors due to COVID-19</a>

He further also suggested that Kohli could've spoken to the board members or selectors to clear the air regarding his availability for the SA ODIs, when news were circulating that he is willing to skip the series (also stated by a board member). In this regard, he said, "Virat Kohli could have also picked up the phone and spoken to them, everyone whose statements he didn't like because it was not only sources but it came from the horse's mouth, there were BCCI officials in that."

"So let's discuss between the two of us like grown-up adults and the BCCI officials could have also done the same thing. Washing dirty linen in public is never a great thing. The rumor markets are again hot and then the same sources, the same drama, we come back to square one, which we don't want."

At present, Ganguly-led BCCI has refrained from commenting on the matter post Kohli's presser. On the other hand, Kohli-led Team India's Test side is in South Africa where they are gearing up for the three-match series opener at Centurion on December 26.&nbsp;

There has been a lot happening in Indian cricket at present. Before the South Africa tour, the BCCI named Rohit Sharma as Team India's limited-overs captain. While Hitman had already succeeded Virat Kohli as the T20I captain -- post the latter's resignation -- Rohit took over from Kohli in ODIs as the selectors went ahead with only one captain in white-ball formats.

There has been a lot happening in Indian cricket at present. Before the South Africa tour, the BCCI named Rohit Sharma as Team India's limited-overs captain. While Hitman had already succeeded Virat Kohli as the T20I captain -- post the latter's resignation -- Rohit took over from Kohli in ODIs as the selectors went ahead with only one captain in white-ball formats. While many speculated things weren't ideal between Rohit and Kohli post the ODI captaincy switch, Kohli addressed the media in BCCI's customary press conference before the SA tour and contradicted from BCCI's claims; i.e. regarding T20I captaincy resignation, or whether he had prior communication before his ODI captaincy sacking and if he was willing to skip the SA ODIs. Thus, things aren't at its best between Kohli and the Indian cricket board. ALSO READ | Main objective is to play for the country: Former Pak captain defends BCCI's silence over Kohli presser row In a video on his YouTube channel, former Indian opener Aakash Chopra feels that discussions should've taken place between the concerned parties before the ODI captaincy change took place. "It could have definitely been handled better, let's be very very honest. There are a lot of things which could have been better where they could have asked or had a discussion. You don't actually need to ask when you are removing someone as a captain. You just need to tell but it could have been handled a little better, that you acknowledge that the captain has done very well but now you are moving ahead and all of that. That communication could have happened," Chopra opined. ALSO READ | India's Test and ODI series against South Africa to be played behind closed doors due to COVID-19 He further also suggested that Kohli could've spoken to the board members or selectors to clear the air regarding his availability for the SA ODIs, when news were circulating that he is willing to skip the series (also stated by a board member). In this regard, he said, "Virat Kohli could have also picked up the phone and spoken to them, everyone whose statements he didn't like because it was not only sources but it came from the horse's mouth, there were BCCI officials in that." "So let's discuss between the two of us like grown-up adults and the BCCI officials could have also done the same thing. Washing dirty linen in public is never a great thing. The rumor markets are again hot and then the same sources, the same drama, we come back to square one, which we don't want." At present, Ganguly-led BCCI has refrained from commenting on the matter post Kohli's presser. On the other hand, Kohli-led Team India's Test side is in South Africa where they are gearing up for the three-match series opener at Centurion on December 26.

'Virat Kohli could've picked up the phone...' - Aakash Chopra opines on Team India's ODI captaincy row

Virat Kohli-led Indian Test team is in South Africa and are gearing up for the three-match Test series opener, which gets underway on December 26 in Centurion. The last two Tests will follow suit before the action moves to the three ODIs in the African nation, starting from January 19.

Following the ODIs, the tour will come to an end as the four T20Is have been rescheduled&nbsp;from India's current visit to South Africa. The T20Is will be held at a later date in next year. It was mainly done by both BCCI and Cricket South Africa (CSA) after the tour was under dark clouds due to the Omicron threat in the rainbow nation. While the tour was given the green signal, it meant that the T20Is had to be shifted to a later date from the original plan.

"BCCI has confirmed CSA that the Indian team will travel for three Tests and three ODIs. The remaining four T20Is will be played at a later date,” BCCI secretary Jay Shah was quoted as saying to ANI.

Hence, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra isn't impressed with the four T20Is being rescheduled (to a later date).&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/huge-blow-for-south-africa-as-pacer-anrich-nortje-ruled-out-of-india-test-series-due-to-persistent-injury-438719">Huge blow for South Africa as pacer Anrich Nortje ruled out of India Test series due to persistent injury</a>

Speaking on his Youtube Channel, Chopra said, "I am with you that the T20Is shouldn't have been cancelled. There were equal number of games - three ODIs and three T20Is. So you could have played the T20Is and not played the ODIs.

But then, I don't know what the permutations and combinations are because the T20 World Cup is there again next year and the ODI World Cup is after another one year. So the more T20s you play now, the better it is," he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/throwback-when-kapil-dev-mankanded-peter-kirsten-during-indias-1992-tour-of-sa-watch-438727">THROWBACK: When Kapil Dev mankanded Peter Kirsten during India's 1992 tour of SA - WATCH</a>

However, the former Test opener also conceded that the ODI Super League and South Africa's qualification chances for the 2023 ODI World Cup must have been a deciding factor for the boards to have gone ahead with the ODIs.

"I anyway believe there is no advantage of a bilateral ODI series. But you also need to keep in mind that there is a super league, where you get points. If you don't get points, you won't qualify. India's qualification is certain as hosts but the others need to qualify. So that could be a consideration," said Chopra.&nbsp;

Virat Kohli-led Indian Test team is in South Africa and are gearing up for the three-match Test series opener, which gets underway on December 26 in Centurion. The last two Tests will follow suit before the action moves to the three ODIs in the African nation, starting from January 19.

Virat Kohli-led Indian Test team is in South Africa and are gearing up for the three-match Test series opener, which gets underway on December 26 in Centurion. The last two Tests will follow suit before the action moves to the three ODIs in the African nation, starting from January 19. Following the ODIs, the tour will come to an end as the four T20Is have been rescheduled from India's current visit to South Africa. The T20Is will be held at a later date in next year. It was mainly done by both BCCI and Cricket South Africa (CSA) after the tour was under dark clouds due to the Omicron threat in the rainbow nation. While the tour was given the green signal, it meant that the T20Is had to be shifted to a later date from the original plan. "BCCI has confirmed CSA that the Indian team will travel for three Tests and three ODIs. The remaining four T20Is will be played at a later date,” BCCI secretary Jay Shah was quoted as saying to ANI. Hence, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra isn't impressed with the four T20Is being rescheduled (to a later date). ALSO READ | Huge blow for South Africa as pacer Anrich Nortje ruled out of India Test series due to persistent injury Speaking on his Youtube Channel, Chopra said, "I am with you that the T20Is shouldn't have been cancelled. There were equal number of games - three ODIs and three T20Is. So you could have played the T20Is and not played the ODIs. But then, I don't know what the permutations and combinations are because the T20 World Cup is there again next year and the ODI World Cup is after another one year. So the more T20s you play now, the better it is," he added. ALSO READ | THROWBACK: When Kapil Dev mankanded Peter Kirsten during India's 1992 tour of SA - WATCH However, the former Test opener also conceded that the ODI Super League and South Africa's qualification chances for the 2023 ODI World Cup must have been a deciding factor for the boards to have gone ahead with the ODIs. "I anyway believe there is no advantage of a bilateral ODI series. But you also need to keep in mind that there is a super league, where you get points. If you don't get points, you won't qualify. India's qualification is certain as hosts but the others need to qualify. So that could be a consideration," said Chopra.

T20 World Cup is next year: Aakash Chopra unimpressed as T20Is rescheduled from India's tour of SA

Indian youngster Ruturaj Gaikwad has been enjoying a purple patch in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy. Captaining Maharashtra in the tournament, Gaikwad has dominated the run-scoring charts with over 600 runs so far in just five matches as he bangs on the selectors' door ahead of the ODI series against South Africa.

One of Chennai Super Kings (CSK)'s best batters in the last couple of years, Gaikwad was the highest run-getter in IPL 2021 and has been in sensational form in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. While he has already made his T20I debut for India, he might get to make his ODI debut in the upcoming South Africa ODI series.

Former India cricketer and popular commentator Aakash Chopra feels Gaikwad had done enough to get a chance in the ODI series against the Proteas. The CSK star has 603 runs in five matches in the Vijay Hazare Trophy so far with as many as for centuries and an average of over 150.

Chopra said Gaikwad's name should be the first one for consideration when the squad is picked for the ODI series against South Africa. The former cricketer heaped praise on the 24-year-old stating that he has seen some of the right-hander's innings and it felt like he was playing against kids.

“The first name, the name at the top is Ruturaj Gaikwad. I mean he has hit four centuries, at one point he had hit three hundreds in three matches and no one was able to get him out. I saw some of his innings. It seemed like he was playing against kids," Chopra said in a video on his YouTube channel.

"He was only playing the sweep shots against the fast bowlers, who does that? Inside out fours against the spinners. Bowlers were bowling alright but Ruturaj actually looked in a different league altogether," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sourav-ganguly-should-give-an-explanation-former-india-cricketer-on-virat-kohlis-odi-captaincy-row-437970">Sourav Ganguly should give an explanation: Former India cricketer on Virat Kohli's ODI captaincy row</a>

Chopra feels it will be almost impossible for the selectors to ignore Gaikwad, who has been in red-hot form in the Vijay Hazare Trophy and has already proved his worth in the IPL with a season to remember for CSK. The youngster is likely to make the cut in the ODI squad but it remains to be seen if he will get a chance in the playing XI.

“He made 603 runs at an average of 150 and a strike rate of nearly 113. There are four centuries in that, the recent scores are 168, 21, 124, 154* and 136. It actually felt that the guy is ready for the Indian team. It’s absolutely impossible that his name will not be discussed,” said Chopra.

Indian youngster Ruturaj Gaikwad has been enjoying a purple patch in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy. Captaining Maharashtra in the tournament, Gaikwad has dominated the run-scoring charts with over 600 runs so far in just five matches as he bangs on the selectors' door ahead of the ODI series against South Africa.

Indian youngster Ruturaj Gaikwad has been enjoying a purple patch in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy. Captaining Maharashtra in the tournament, Gaikwad has dominated the run-scoring charts with over 600 runs so far in just five matches as he bangs on the selectors' door ahead of the ODI series against South Africa. One of Chennai Super Kings (CSK)'s best batters in the last couple of years, Gaikwad was the highest run-getter in IPL 2021 and has been in sensational form in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. While he has already made his T20I debut for India, he might get to make his ODI debut in the upcoming South Africa ODI series. Former India cricketer and popular commentator Aakash Chopra feels Gaikwad had done enough to get a chance in the ODI series against the Proteas. The CSK star has 603 runs in five matches in the Vijay Hazare Trophy so far with as many as for centuries and an average of over 150. Chopra said Gaikwad's name should be the first one for consideration when the squad is picked for the ODI series against South Africa. The former cricketer heaped praise on the 24-year-old stating that he has seen some of the right-hander's innings and it felt like he was playing against kids. “The first name, the name at the top is Ruturaj Gaikwad. I mean he has hit four centuries, at one point he had hit three hundreds in three matches and no one was able to get him out. I saw some of his innings. It seemed like he was playing against kids," Chopra said in a video on his YouTube channel. "He was only playing the sweep shots against the fast bowlers, who does that? Inside out fours against the spinners. Bowlers were bowling alright but Ruturaj actually looked in a different league altogether," he added. Also Read: Sourav Ganguly should give an explanation: Former India cricketer on Virat Kohli's ODI captaincy row Chopra feels it will be almost impossible for the selectors to ignore Gaikwad, who has been in red-hot form in the Vijay Hazare Trophy and has already proved his worth in the IPL with a season to remember for CSK. The youngster is likely to make the cut in the ODI squad but it remains to be seen if he will get a chance in the playing XI. “He made 603 runs at an average of 150 and a strike rate of nearly 113. There are four centuries in that, the recent scores are 168, 21, 124, 154* and 136. It actually felt that the guy is ready for the Indian team. It’s absolutely impossible that his name will not be discussed,” said Chopra.

'Seemed like he was playing against kids': Aakash Chopra wants youngster in squad for South Africa ODIs

Team India are set to leave for South Africa in a few days, where they will scheduled to play three Tests and ODIs each in the African nation. The tour opener will commence with the first Test, at Centurion, but India have been dealt with huge concerns courtesy injury to various key players.

The latest to join the list of injured players is Rohit Sharma, India's Test vice-captain and newly-appointed limited-overs skipper. Hitman&nbsp;sustained a left hamstring injury and has been ruled out of the three-match Test series versus South Africa. Moreover, he also got hit on his hand during net session while taking throwdowns. For the unversed, the likes of Ravindra Jadeja, Shubman Gill, Axar Patel are already out of the tour due to injury issues. Hence, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra expressed his concerns and asked whether the tour should be cancelled seeing the number of unfit players.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-substantiates-speculation-about-rift-azhar-reacts-as-rohit-set-to-miss-sa-tests-kohli-to-skip-odis-436806">This substantiates speculation about rift: Azhar reacts as Rohit set to miss SA Tests, Kohli to skip ODIs</a>

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Chopra said, "Ravindra Jadeja unavailable, Axar Patel unavailable, Rahul Chahar unavailable, you don't have Shubman Gill and now they are saying that Rohit Sharma is also not there. I mean what is happening? Should we cancel the South Africa tour?

"Rohit Sharma is going to be a huge miss. If his tour is in doubt, India's chances are looking in doubt because who was your best Test batter in 2021. Why did you do well in England - Rohit was there with Rahul. Rohit has started loving Test cricket and he is enjoying leaving or defending."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-indian-opener-names-rohit-sharma-starrer-test-xi-of-2021-no-room-for-virat-kohli-436685">Former Indian opener names Rohit Sharma-starrer Test XI of 2021, no room for Virat Kohli</a>

Chopra further asserted, "There are multi-fold problems. Shubman Gill and Mayank Agarwal had opened just now, KL Rahul was injured. I met KL Rahul recently and he said that he will be fine. You will see Mayank Agarwal opening along with him but who will be the third opener now?

"We were saying that it has become a story of four or five openers and here Mayank Agarwal has become the second opener and KL Rahul the first. And we have reached the stage when Mayank Agarwal made his debut, in a space of few weeks. The Indian team becomes significantly weak," the cricketer-turned-commentator further added.

India will start their tour of South Africa with a three-match Test series, starting from December 26 in Centurion. The Test series will give the No. 1 ranked Virat Kohli-led side a big opportunity to win their first-ever series in whites on African soil. During the 2018 SA tour, Kohli &amp; Co. came close but lost the series 2-1.

Team India are set to leave for South Africa in a few days, where they will scheduled to play three Tests and ODIs each in the African nation. The tour opener will commence with the first Test, at Centurion, but India have been dealt with huge concerns courtesy injury to various key players.

Team India are set to leave for South Africa in a few days, where they will scheduled to play three Tests and ODIs each in the African nation. The tour opener will commence with the first Test, at Centurion, but India have been dealt with huge concerns courtesy injury to various key players. The latest to join the list of injured players is Rohit Sharma, India's Test vice-captain and newly-appointed limited-overs skipper. Hitman sustained a left hamstring injury and has been ruled out of the three-match Test series versus South Africa. Moreover, he also got hit on his hand during net session while taking throwdowns. For the unversed, the likes of Ravindra Jadeja, Shubman Gill, Axar Patel are already out of the tour due to injury issues. Hence, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra expressed his concerns and asked whether the tour should be cancelled seeing the number of unfit players. ALSO READ | This substantiates speculation about rift: Azhar reacts as Rohit set to miss SA Tests, Kohli to skip ODIs Speaking on his YouTube channel, Chopra said, "Ravindra Jadeja unavailable, Axar Patel unavailable, Rahul Chahar unavailable, you don't have Shubman Gill and now they are saying that Rohit Sharma is also not there. I mean what is happening? Should we cancel the South Africa tour? "Rohit Sharma is going to be a huge miss. If his tour is in doubt, India's chances are looking in doubt because who was your best Test batter in 2021. Why did you do well in England - Rohit was there with Rahul. Rohit has started loving Test cricket and he is enjoying leaving or defending." ALSO READ | Former Indian opener names Rohit Sharma-starrer Test XI of 2021, no room for Virat Kohli Chopra further asserted, "There are multi-fold problems. Shubman Gill and Mayank Agarwal had opened just now, KL Rahul was injured. I met KL Rahul recently and he said that he will be fine. You will see Mayank Agarwal opening along with him but who will be the third opener now? "We were saying that it has become a story of four or five openers and here Mayank Agarwal has become the second opener and KL Rahul the first. And we have reached the stage when Mayank Agarwal made his debut, in a space of few weeks. The Indian team becomes significantly weak," the cricketer-turned-commentator further added. India will start their tour of South Africa with a three-match Test series, starting from December 26 in Centurion. The Test series will give the No. 1 ranked Virat Kohli-led side a big opportunity to win their first-ever series in whites on African soil. During the 2018 SA tour, Kohli & Co. came close but lost the series 2-1.

Should we cancel SA tour? Aakash Chopra reacts after Rohit Sharma's injury adds to Team India's woes

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Monday (November 13) confirmed Rohit Sharma will miss the upcoming three-match Test series against South Africa after a hamstring injury. Rohit pulled his left hamstring while training in Mumbai and has been replaced by India A batter Priyank Panchal, who recently led the India A team on their tour of South Africa.

Rohit's absence will be a huge blow for team India in the Test series which is set to get underway from December 26 in Centurion. The three-match Test series will be followed by as many ODIs against the Proteas. Reacting to Panchal's selection as Rohit's replacement for the SA Test series, former India cricketer and popular commentator Aakash Chopra said he was quite surprised.

Chopra was left baffled to see Panchal getting the nod ahead of Abhimanyu Easwaran, who was part of India's squad for the England tour earlier this year but didn't get a chance as Rohit opened the batting with Shubman Gill. &nbsp;Chopra said he is failing to understand the selection process as there is no clarity.

"Abhimanyu Easwaran had gone to England. He was a part of the Indian team and was kept as the backup opener. But now he is not the backup opener. It is like Akkad bakkad bambe bo - that's the feeling that you get because there is no clarity," said the former India cricketer in a video on his YouTube channel.

"There is a twist in the story, that begs a question to be asked that what is happening in this world? Now it seems Priyank Panchal is the backup opener, which is surprising," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-set-to-miss-upcoming-odi-series-against-south-africa-due-to-personal-reasons-report-436766">Virat Kohli set to miss upcoming ODI series against South Africa due to personal reasons - Report</a>

Easwaran was India's second-highest run-getter behind Hanuma Vihari with 205 runs from three matches against South Africa A on the team's recent tour. However, he has been pipped by Panchal, who Chopra believes is not a bad choice but his selection is unfair on Easwaran.

"Let me be honest, Priyank Panchal is not a bad choice - in fact when you saw Rohit Sharma playing as a Test opener, then also there was supposed to be a choice Priyank Panchal and Abhimanyu Easwaran but then Virat Kohli and Ravi Shastri thought of opening with Rohit. Rohit started to open and Priyank Panchal and Abhimanyu Easwaran didn't get a chance at all," said Chopra.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Monday (November 13) confirmed Rohit Sharma will miss the upcoming three-match Test series against South Africa after a hamstring injury.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Monday (November 13) confirmed Rohit Sharma will miss the upcoming three-match Test series against South Africa after a hamstring injury. Rohit pulled his left hamstring while training in Mumbai and has been replaced by India A batter Priyank Panchal, who recently led the India A team on their tour of South Africa. Rohit's absence will be a huge blow for team India in the Test series which is set to get underway from December 26 in Centurion. The three-match Test series will be followed by as many ODIs against the Proteas. Reacting to Panchal's selection as Rohit's replacement for the SA Test series, former India cricketer and popular commentator Aakash Chopra said he was quite surprised. Chopra was left baffled to see Panchal getting the nod ahead of Abhimanyu Easwaran, who was part of India's squad for the England tour earlier this year but didn't get a chance as Rohit opened the batting with Shubman Gill. Chopra said he is failing to understand the selection process as there is no clarity. "Abhimanyu Easwaran had gone to England. He was a part of the Indian team and was kept as the backup opener. But now he is not the backup opener. It is like Akkad bakkad bambe bo - that's the feeling that you get because there is no clarity," said the former India cricketer in a video on his YouTube channel. "There is a twist in the story, that begs a question to be asked that what is happening in this world? Now it seems Priyank Panchal is the backup opener, which is surprising," he added. Also Read: Virat Kohli set to miss upcoming ODI series against South Africa due to personal reasons - Report Easwaran was India's second-highest run-getter behind Hanuma Vihari with 205 runs from three matches against South Africa A on the team's recent tour. However, he has been pipped by Panchal, who Chopra believes is not a bad choice but his selection is unfair on Easwaran. "Let me be honest, Priyank Panchal is not a bad choice - in fact when you saw Rohit Sharma playing as a Test opener, then also there was supposed to be a choice Priyank Panchal and Abhimanyu Easwaran but then Virat Kohli and Ravi Shastri thought of opening with Rohit. Rohit started to open and Priyank Panchal and Abhimanyu Easwaran didn't get a chance at all," said Chopra.

'There is no clarity': Former India cricketer baffled by Panchal's selection over Easwaran for SA Test series

The year 2021 was filled with plenty of cricketing action. The calendar year saw the inaugural ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final being held, where Kane Williamson-led New Zealand won the title. Apart from that, there were plenty of action and drama which came from the purest format, in the form of India-England Tests (both men's and women's), India vs Australia Tests (both in men's and women's), Pakistan-Bangladesh series, Sri Lanka-West Indies series, etc.

With the year coming to an end, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra&nbsp;picked his Test team of 2021. Chopra's team included some star-studded names and comprises four Indians. However, Captain Virat Kohli found no mention in his line-up.

For the unversed, Kohli didn't have a great year with the bat. While he led India with aplomb in the England series (both home and away) and a series win over New Zealand at home, he failed to cross the triple-figure mark and amassed only 483 runs, with four fifties, at 28.41. Hence, Chopra's list included Rohit Sharma (India's highest run-getter in 2021), Rishabh Pant, R Ashwin and Axar Patel.

Rohit compiled 906 runs, at 47.68, and&nbsp;is the second-highest run-getter overall. Ashwin leads the list of most wickets in Tests in the calendar year (52 scalps) whereas Axar accounted for 36 wickets (fourth overall). Pant, on the other hand, scored 706 runs with five fifties and one hundred (second-most by an Indian) and also showed vast improvement a a keeper. Both Pant and Ashwin have a chance to better their numbers in India's only Test remaining in 2021; i.e. the South Africa Test series opener in Centurion on December 26. Meanwhile, Rohit and Axar have been ruled out of action due to injury concerns.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohlis-post-for-ms-dhoni-during-ipl-14-adjudged-most-liked-and-retweeted-tweet-for-sports-in-2021-436631">Virat Kohli's post for MS Dhoni during IPL 14 adjudged most liked and retweeted tweet for sports in 2021</a>

Speaking about the top-order, Chopra's XI comprised Rohit, Sri Lanka captain Dimuth Karunaratne, Joe Root and NZ's skipper Williamson.

He said in a video on his YouTube channel, "The first name coming to my mind is Rohit Sharma. It was a huge year for him, it was the year in which he fell in love with the longest format. He played amazing knocks, whether it was the century in Chennai and the consistent performances in England.&nbsp; My second opener is Sri Lanka's Dimuth Karunaratne. He has also made runs which also includes a double century. He was playing well against West Indies also. He might not be too pleasing on the eye but scores runs.".

"There was no contest at No.3. Joe Root is part of this team. He is the best Test batter of 2021, miles above the rest. He is just in a different league altogether. He gave amazing performances, whether it was the double century in India or Sri Lanka. At No.4, I have got Williamson. He scored a double century against Pakistan and he won his team the final. He played a very important knock in the final as well. Kane Williamson is also the captain of this team," Chopra further asserted.

For the middle-order, Chopra named Fawad Alam, Pant, Ashwin and Axar. "My team has Fawad Alam. It is a story of persistence, that he will keep on playing whether you select him or not. He has made runs, the noticeable performances being 109 against South Africa, 140 against Zimbabwe and 124 against West Indies. The keeper is Rishabh Pant. I was thinking about Jos Buttler as well but no one was close to him. The sort of performances Rishabh Pant has given - 101 against England, 89 at Gabba and a ninety in Sydney as well. He has been very very good."

"After that, I am picking two Indians (including Axar). Ravichandran Ashwin - he has taken a lot of wickets. He was brilliant in India against England. He made a century against England as well. He is the no.1 spinner in Test cricket, there is no doubt about it."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-ruled-out-of-upcoming-test-series-against-south-africa-priyank-panchal-named-replacement-436590">Rohit Sharma ruled out of upcoming Test series against South Africa, Priyank Panchal named replacement</a>

For the rest of the line-up, Chopra shared his picks and said, "I have picked two fast bowlers apart from Jamieson. Jimmy Anderson - he took 32 wickets this year. He did well in India, took a five-wicket haul in Sri Lanka and did well against India again at home. Last but not the least, I have got Shaheen Afridi. His performances this year have been very good. He was also taking five-wicket hauls like Axar. It will also give a left-armer, he is tall, pitches the ball up and makes it swing," he concluded.

Aakash Chopra's Test XI of the year: Rohit Sharma, Dimuth Karunaratne, Joe Root, Kane Williamson (c), Fawad Alam, Rishabh Pant, Kyle Jamieson, Ravichandran Ashwin, Axar Patel, James Anderson, Shaheen Afridi

The year 2021 was filled with plenty of cricketing action. The calendar year saw the inaugural ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final being held, where Kane Williamson-led New Zealand won the title.

The year 2021 was filled with plenty of cricketing action. The calendar year saw the inaugural ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final being held, where Kane Williamson-led New Zealand won the title. Apart from that, there were plenty of action and drama which came from the purest format, in the form of India-England Tests (both men's and women's), India vs Australia Tests (both in men's and women's), Pakistan-Bangladesh series, Sri Lanka-West Indies series, etc. With the year coming to an end, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra picked his Test team of 2021. Chopra's team included some star-studded names and comprises four Indians. However, Captain Virat Kohli found no mention in his line-up. For the unversed, Kohli didn't have a great year with the bat. While he led India with aplomb in the England series (both home and away) and a series win over New Zealand at home, he failed to cross the triple-figure mark and amassed only 483 runs, with four fifties, at 28.41. Hence, Chopra's list included Rohit Sharma (India's highest run-getter in 2021), Rishabh Pant, R Ashwin and Axar Patel. Rohit compiled 906 runs, at 47.68, and is the second-highest run-getter overall. Ashwin leads the list of most wickets in Tests in the calendar year (52 scalps) whereas Axar accounted for 36 wickets (fourth overall). Pant, on the other hand, scored 706 runs with five fifties and one hundred (second-most by an Indian) and also showed vast improvement a a keeper. Both Pant and Ashwin have a chance to better their numbers in India's only Test remaining in 2021; i.e. the South Africa Test series opener in Centurion on December 26. Meanwhile, Rohit and Axar have been ruled out of action due to injury concerns. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli's post for MS Dhoni during IPL 14 adjudged most liked and retweeted tweet for sports in 2021 Speaking about the top-order, Chopra's XI comprised Rohit, Sri Lanka captain Dimuth Karunaratne, Joe Root and NZ's skipper Williamson. He said in a video on his YouTube channel, "The first name coming to my mind is Rohit Sharma. It was a huge year for him, it was the year in which he fell in love with the longest format. He played amazing knocks, whether it was the century in Chennai and the consistent performances in England. My second opener is Sri Lanka's Dimuth Karunaratne. He has also made runs which also includes a double century. He was playing well against West Indies also. He might not be too pleasing on the eye but scores runs.". "There was no contest at No.3. Joe Root is part of this team. He is the best Test batter of 2021, miles above the rest. He is just in a different league altogether. He gave amazing performances, whether it was the double century in India or Sri Lanka. At No.4, I have got Williamson. He scored a double century against Pakistan and he won his team the final. He played a very important knock in the final as well. Kane Williamson is also the captain of this team," Chopra further asserted. For the middle-order, Chopra named Fawad Alam, Pant, Ashwin and Axar. "My team has Fawad Alam. It is a story of persistence, that he will keep on playing whether you select him or not. He has made runs, the noticeable performances being 109 against South Africa, 140 against Zimbabwe and 124 against West Indies. The keeper is Rishabh Pant. I was thinking about Jos Buttler as well but no one was close to him. The sort of performances Rishabh Pant has given - 101 against England, 89 at Gabba and a ninety in Sydney as well. He has been very very good." "After that, I am picking two Indians (including Axar). Ravichandran Ashwin - he has taken a lot of wickets. He was brilliant in India against England. He made a century against England as well. He is the no.1 spinner in Test cricket, there is no doubt about it." ALSO READ | Rohit Sharma ruled out of upcoming Test series against South Africa, Priyank Panchal named replacement For the rest of the line-up, Chopra shared his picks and said, "I have picked two fast bowlers apart from Jamieson. Jimmy Anderson - he took 32 wickets this year. He did well in India, took a five-wicket haul in Sri Lanka and did well against India again at home. Last but not the least, I have got Shaheen Afridi. His performances this year have been very good. He was also taking five-wicket hauls like Axar. It will also give a left-armer, he is tall, pitches the ball up and makes it swing," he concluded. Aakash Chopra's Test XI of the year: Rohit Sharma, Dimuth Karunaratne, Joe Root, Kane Williamson (c), Fawad Alam, Rishabh Pant, Kyle Jamieson, Ravichandran Ashwin, Axar Patel, James Anderson, Shaheen Afridi

Former Indian opener names Rohit Sharma-starrer Test XI of 2021, no room for Virat Kohli

The Indian cricket team saw a number of highs and lows in what was an eventful 2021. Ajinkya Rahane inspired the side to a memorable 2-1 Test series win in Australia without the likes of Virat Kohli, Ravindra Jadeja and several other key players before India thrashed England at home to enter the final of the inaugural edition of the World Test Championship.

India lost the World Test Championship final against New Zealand but enjoyed a tremendous run in the Test series in England. The Men in Blue headed into the T20 World Cup 2021 as favourites but were dumped out of the group stages after back-to-back losses against Pakistan and New Zealand to endure a disappointing campaign.

As cricket experts and former cricketers join the bandwagon to choose the best performers of the year as far as the Indian cricket team is concerned, former batter Aakash Chopra has picked the 'cricketer of the year' for the Indian team. The popular commentator explained why he feels Rohit deserves the tag.

In a video on his YouTube channel, Chopra picked Rohit as India's Test cricketer of the year for his consistent performances at home and away from home. Chopra said it was a pivotal year in Rohit's Test career and a different style of Hitman was at the display in the longest format.

"There are a lot of names that come to mind - Rishabh Pant's name comes because he has scored a lot of runs. He was the one who helped conquer Gabba in the end. But my Test batter of the year has to be Rohit Sharma. He played defining knocks," said Chopra.

"The conditions were difficult during England's tour of India and he scored runs. In the first innings of the second Test in Chennai - he was on one side and the entire team, including the opposition, was on the other side. The quality of batting that was on display. Then when he went to England, once again he kept on fighting and stood there. We saw a different style of Rohit Sharma's batting," he added.

Rohit scored 906 runs at an average of 47.6 in 11 Test matches in the year 2021 including two centuries. When it came to T20Is, Chopra once again picked Rohit as India's player of the year in the shortest format despite great competition from the likes of Virat Kohli and KL Rahul among others.

"In T20Is, you think about Rahul but he has not scored that many runs. Kohli has also not scored that many runs. You will remember Suryakumar and Ishan Kishan's names as well but in my opinion, once again it is Rohit Sharma," said Chopra.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/that-guy-has-70-hundreds-former-pakistan-skipper-slams-bcci-for-sacking-virat-kohli-as-odi-captain-435764">&nbsp;'That guy has 70 hundreds': Former Pakistan skipper slams BCCI for sacking Virat Kohli as ODI captain</a>

In eleven T20Is this year, Rohit scored 424 runs at a brilliant average of 38.5 and a strike rate of 150. He was also appointed as India's T20 captain post the conclusion of the T20 World Cup 2021 and has now also been handed over the ODI captaincy. Chopra honoured Rohit with India's player of the year 2021 tag and called it his year as far as Indian cricket is concerned.

"This year has been different because the strike rate has gone up and the average has also gone up. He has been given the T20I captaincy also now. So, the best Test batter and the best T20 batter is Rohit Sharma - this is the year of Rohit Sharma," said the former India cricketer.

The Indian cricket team saw a number of highs and lows in what was an eventful 2021. Ajinkya Rahane inspired the side to a memorable 2-1 Test series win in Australia without the likes of Virat Kohli, Ravindra Jadeja and several other key players before India thrashed England at home to enter the final of the inaugural edition of the World Test Championship.

The Indian cricket team saw a number of highs and lows in what was an eventful 2021. Ajinkya Rahane inspired the side to a memorable 2-1 Test series win in Australia without the likes of Virat Kohli, Ravindra Jadeja and several other key players before India thrashed England at home to enter the final of the inaugural edition of the World Test Championship. India lost the World Test Championship final against New Zealand but enjoyed a tremendous run in the Test series in England. The Men in Blue headed into the T20 World Cup 2021 as favourites but were dumped out of the group stages after back-to-back losses against Pakistan and New Zealand to endure a disappointing campaign. As cricket experts and former cricketers join the bandwagon to choose the best performers of the year as far as the Indian cricket team is concerned, former batter Aakash Chopra has picked the 'cricketer of the year' for the Indian team. The popular commentator explained why he feels Rohit deserves the tag. In a video on his YouTube channel, Chopra picked Rohit as India's Test cricketer of the year for his consistent performances at home and away from home. Chopra said it was a pivotal year in Rohit's Test career and a different style of Hitman was at the display in the longest format. "There are a lot of names that come to mind - Rishabh Pant's name comes because he has scored a lot of runs. He was the one who helped conquer Gabba in the end. But my Test batter of the year has to be Rohit Sharma. He played defining knocks," said Chopra. "The conditions were difficult during England's tour of India and he scored runs. In the first innings of the second Test in Chennai - he was on one side and the entire team, including the opposition, was on the other side. The quality of batting that was on display. Then when he went to England, once again he kept on fighting and stood there. We saw a different style of Rohit Sharma's batting," he added. Rohit scored 906 runs at an average of 47.6 in 11 Test matches in the year 2021 including two centuries. When it came to T20Is, Chopra once again picked Rohit as India's player of the year in the shortest format despite great competition from the likes of Virat Kohli and KL Rahul among others. "In T20Is, you think about Rahul but he has not scored that many runs. Kohli has also not scored that many runs. You will remember Suryakumar and Ishan Kishan's names as well but in my opinion, once again it is Rohit Sharma," said Chopra. Also Read: 'That guy has 70 hundreds': Former Pakistan skipper slams BCCI for sacking Virat Kohli as ODI captain In eleven T20Is this year, Rohit scored 424 runs at a brilliant average of 38.5 and a strike rate of 150. He was also appointed as India's T20 captain post the conclusion of the T20 World Cup 2021 and has now also been handed over the ODI captaincy. Chopra honoured Rohit with India's player of the year 2021 tag and called it his year as far as Indian cricket is concerned. "This year has been different because the strike rate has gone up and the average has also gone up. He has been given the T20I captaincy also now. So, the best Test batter and the best T20 batter is Rohit Sharma - this is the year of Rohit Sharma," said the former India cricketer.

No Virat Kohli, KL Rahul! Aakash Chopra names India's best player of the year 2021

Team India have gone through rapid changes ever since their disappointing run in the T20 World Cup came to an end. While Ravi Shastri's tenure came to an end, he was replaced by Rahul Dravid as the head coach. Rohit Sharma took over as the T20I captain after Virat Kohli had announced that the T20 WC would be his last assignment as the captain in the shortest format.

On Wednesday (December 8), the BCCI announced Rohit as the ODI captain, replacing Kohli, whereas Hitman has also been promoted as the Test vice-captain. Kohli will, however, continue to lead the Test line-up.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/some-in-bcci-made-sure-i-dont-get-the-job-ex-india-head-coach-ravi-shastri-makes-glaring-remark-435719">'Some in BCCI made sure I don't get the job': Ex-India head coach Ravi Shastri makes glaring remark</a>

Speaking on his official YouTube channel in a video, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra opined on the changes taken place in Team India. He said that the team has maintained the difference between red and white-ball cricket with Rohit taking over as ODI captain.&nbsp;

“The day Virat Kohli left his T20 captaincy, it was a foregone conclusion that he will also lose his one-day captaincy. You would always want to go with the captain who leads the T20 team (for the ODI side). In world cricket, you don’t see a player leading the Test and ODI team not captaining the side in T20s. A distinction is always over white-ball cricket and red-ball cricket, and now we have that distinction," he stated.

The former cricketer also sounded optimistic of India's fortunes under Rohit.&nbsp;“What he brings to the table is his tactical acumen. He is very good tactically. Rohit Sharma has always been a lucky captain, so that also helps!", Chopra further added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-succeeds-virat-kohli-sourav-ganguly-breaks-silence-as-hitman-named-indias-odi-captain-435527">Rohit Sharma succeeds Virat Kohli: Sourav Ganguly breaks silence as Hitman named India's ODI captain</a>

Meanwhile, Chopra also made a valid point that Rohit the batter will have to assist Rohit the captain. "Rohit Sharma the batsman will have to help Rohit Sharma the captain. Indian cricket is a lot about 1-2-3 (top order), so when Rohit, Rahul and Virat Kohli score big, it’s always good for Indian cricket,” he concluded.

Talking about Kohli, India did fairly well in bilateral series in limited-overs but couldn't win an ICC title. The Men in Blue reached the 2017 Champions Trophy final and also played the semi-final of the 2019 ODI World Cup. India will now hope to end their ICC-title drought under new captain Rohit.

Rohit, on the other hand, will have to replicate Kohli's efforts as a batsman while captaining the side. The 33-year-old did a brilliant job while leading from the front with the willow in hand and, hence, his successor will hope to carry on in a similar manner.

Team India have gone through rapid changes ever since their disappointing run in the T20 World Cup came to an end. While Ravi Shastri's tenure came to an end, he was replaced by Rahul Dravid as the head coach.

Team India have gone through rapid changes ever since their disappointing run in the T20 World Cup came to an end. While Ravi Shastri's tenure came to an end, he was replaced by Rahul Dravid as the head coach. Rohit Sharma took over as the T20I captain after Virat Kohli had announced that the T20 WC would be his last assignment as the captain in the shortest format. On Wednesday (December 8), the BCCI announced Rohit as the ODI captain, replacing Kohli, whereas Hitman has also been promoted as the Test vice-captain. Kohli will, however, continue to lead the Test line-up. ALSO READ | 'Some in BCCI made sure I don't get the job': Ex-India head coach Ravi Shastri makes glaring remark Speaking on his official YouTube channel in a video, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra opined on the changes taken place in Team India. He said that the team has maintained the difference between red and white-ball cricket with Rohit taking over as ODI captain. “The day Virat Kohli left his T20 captaincy, it was a foregone conclusion that he will also lose his one-day captaincy. You would always want to go with the captain who leads the T20 team (for the ODI side). In world cricket, you don’t see a player leading the Test and ODI team not captaining the side in T20s. A distinction is always over white-ball cricket and red-ball cricket, and now we have that distinction," he stated. The former cricketer also sounded optimistic of India's fortunes under Rohit. “What he brings to the table is his tactical acumen. He is very good tactically. Rohit Sharma has always been a lucky captain, so that also helps!", Chopra further added. ALSO READ | Rohit Sharma succeeds Virat Kohli: Sourav Ganguly breaks silence as Hitman named India's ODI captain Meanwhile, Chopra also made a valid point that Rohit the batter will have to assist Rohit the captain. "Rohit Sharma the batsman will have to help Rohit Sharma the captain. Indian cricket is a lot about 1-2-3 (top order), so when Rohit, Rahul and Virat Kohli score big, it’s always good for Indian cricket,” he concluded. Talking about Kohli, India did fairly well in bilateral series in limited-overs but couldn't win an ICC title. The Men in Blue reached the 2017 Champions Trophy final and also played the semi-final of the 2019 ODI World Cup. India will now hope to end their ICC-title drought under new captain Rohit. Rohit, on the other hand, will have to replicate Kohli's efforts as a batsman while captaining the side. The 33-year-old did a brilliant job while leading from the front with the willow in hand and, hence, his successor will hope to carry on in a similar manner.

You'd always go with captain who leads in T20Is: Aakash Chopra reacts to ODI captaincy switch in Team India

Despite Ajaz Patel's historic ten-wicket haul on Day 2 of the ongoing second Test between India and New Zealand in Mumbai, the hosts dominated the proceedings. India posted a strong total of 325 runs on the board in their first innings before bundling out the Kiwis for a paltry 62 to gain control in the game.

It was an exceptional effort from the Indian bowling attack as R Ashwin and Mohammed Siraj combined to rip through New Zealand batting line-up picking up seven wickets between them. While Siraj ran through the top-order, Ashwin wreaked havoc on New Zealand's lower-middle order.

Siraj bowled a sensational spell for India to get the hosts off to a great start. He drew the first blood by removing opener Will Young before dismissing Tom Latham in quick succession. He then followed it up with the wicket of Ross Taylor to finish with excellent figures of 3/19 in his four overs.

It was a stellar display of fast bowling from Siraj as well as shrewd captaincy from Virat Kohli, who used the pacer well and plotted Latham's dismissal with a short ball. Former India cricketer and popular commentator Aakash Chopra heaped praise on Siraj for his brilliant spell and also credited Kohli for his captaincy.

Chopra said the way Siraj set up Latham was the reason why he had missed Kohli in the first Test against New Zealand where Ajinkya Rahane had led the side in the regular skipper's absence.

"That is where I missed Virat Kohli, the captain. Mohammed Siraj set Tom Latham up brilliantly, and it’s not only the wicket of the bowler. Kohli played a role in it,” said Chopra on Star Sports.

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"In the last Test, we didn’t see a single bouncer against Tom Latham. With Siraj, you can expect short-pitched bowls more often than not. So he bowled short and they had the leg-side trap ready for Latham. It was a good wicket and wonderful captaincy," he added.

Kohli had missed the series-opener against New Zealand due to workload management as he was rested after India's T20 World Cup 2021 campaign. Kohli had also missed the three-match T20I series against the Black Caps.

Despite Ajaz Patel's historic ten-wicket haul on Day 2 of the ongoing second Test between India and New Zealand in Mumbai, the hosts dominated the proceedings. India posted a strong total of 325 runs on the board in their first innings before bundling out the Kiwis for a paltry 62 to gain control in the game.

Despite Ajaz Patel's historic ten-wicket haul on Day 2 of the ongoing second Test between India and New Zealand in Mumbai, the hosts dominated the proceedings. India posted a strong total of 325 runs on the board in their first innings before bundling out the Kiwis for a paltry 62 to gain control in the game. It was an exceptional effort from the Indian bowling attack as R Ashwin and Mohammed Siraj combined to rip through New Zealand batting line-up picking up seven wickets between them. While Siraj ran through the top-order, Ashwin wreaked havoc on New Zealand's lower-middle order. Siraj bowled a sensational spell for India to get the hosts off to a great start. He drew the first blood by removing opener Will Young before dismissing Tom Latham in quick succession. He then followed it up with the wicket of Ross Taylor to finish with excellent figures of 3/19 in his four overs. It was a stellar display of fast bowling from Siraj as well as shrewd captaincy from Virat Kohli, who used the pacer well and plotted Latham's dismissal with a short ball. Former India cricketer and popular commentator Aakash Chopra heaped praise on Siraj for his brilliant spell and also credited Kohli for his captaincy. Chopra said the way Siraj set up Latham was the reason why he had missed Kohli in the first Test against New Zealand where Ajinkya Rahane had led the side in the regular skipper's absence. "That is where I missed Virat Kohli, the captain. Mohammed Siraj set Tom Latham up brilliantly, and it’s not only the wicket of the bowler. Kohli played a role in it,” said Chopra on Star Sports. Also Read: Mayank Agarwal joins Sunil Gavaskar in elite list despite missing twin centuries in Mumbai Test against NZ "In the last Test, we didn’t see a single bouncer against Tom Latham. With Siraj, you can expect short-pitched bowls more often than not. So he bowled short and they had the leg-side trap ready for Latham. It was a good wicket and wonderful captaincy," he added. Kohli had missed the series-opener against New Zealand due to workload management as he was rested after India's T20 World Cup 2021 campaign. Kohli had also missed the three-match T20I series against the Black Caps.

'That is where I missed Virat Kohli': Aakash Chopra lauds Indian captain as NZ get skittled out for 62

Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra said that no one felt the absence of experienced pacers, such as Mohammed Shami and Jasprit Bumrah in the Indian squad during the second Test match against New Zealand because of Mohammed Siraj.&nbsp;

During a discussion on Star Sports, Chopra heaped praises on Siraj, who wasn't part of the Indian squad during the first Test that ended as a draw. However, Siraj replaced injured Ishant Sharma in the second Test and made most of the opportunity.&nbsp;

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During the match, the star pacer's stunning spell helped India to bowl out Kiwis at 62 in their first innings at the Wankhede Stadium. He took three crucial wickets of Will Young (4), Tom Lathan (10) and Ross Taylor (1). Siraj was supported by off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, who claimed four wickets. On Day 2 stumps, India were 332 ahead after not enforcing the follow-on and reaching 69 for 0 in their second innings.&nbsp;

Chopra said, "He [Mohammed Siraj] did not allow us to miss anyone. We didn't talk about Ishant being injured, we didn't talk about Bumrah and Shami not playing, about whom we might have talked about in the last match. We feel the absence of Bumrah and Shami less when Mohammed Siraj is there."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-to-replace-ajinkya-rahane-as-indias-test-vice-captain-for-south-africa-tour-report-434171">Rohit Sharma to replace Ajinkya Rahane as India's Test vice-captain for South Africa tour - Report</a>

Talking about his performance, Siraj said, "After I got injured (in the first New Zealand Twenty20 last month), when I started training, I did a lot of single wicket bowling with an aim to get as much swing as possible."

"That was my focus and when I would get the chance in a Test match, I had to consistently hit one area and that's what will help me build my rhythm," he added.&nbsp;

Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra said that no one felt the absence of experienced pacers, such as Mohammed Shami and Jasprit Bumrah in the Indian squad during the second Test match against New Zealand because of Mohammed Siraj.

Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra said that no one felt the absence of experienced pacers, such as Mohammed Shami and Jasprit Bumrah in the Indian squad during the second Test match against New Zealand because of Mohammed Siraj. During a discussion on Star Sports, Chopra heaped praises on Siraj, who wasn't part of the Indian squad during the first Test that ended as a draw. However, Siraj replaced injured Ishant Sharma in the second Test and made most of the opportunity. ALSO READ | BCCI confirms India tour of South Africa to go ahead without T20s with revised dates and itinerary During the match, the star pacer's stunning spell helped India to bowl out Kiwis at 62 in their first innings at the Wankhede Stadium. He took three crucial wickets of Will Young (4), Tom Lathan (10) and Ross Taylor (1). Siraj was supported by off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, who claimed four wickets. On Day 2 stumps, India were 332 ahead after not enforcing the follow-on and reaching 69 for 0 in their second innings. Chopra said, "He [Mohammed Siraj] did not allow us to miss anyone. We didn't talk about Ishant being injured, we didn't talk about Bumrah and Shami not playing, about whom we might have talked about in the last match. We feel the absence of Bumrah and Shami less when Mohammed Siraj is there." ALSO READ | Rohit Sharma to replace Ajinkya Rahane as India's Test vice-captain for South Africa tour - Report Talking about his performance, Siraj said, "After I got injured (in the first New Zealand Twenty20 last month), when I started training, I did a lot of single wicket bowling with an aim to get as much swing as possible." "That was my focus and when I would get the chance in a Test match, I had to consistently hit one area and that's what will help me build my rhythm," he added.

INDvsNZ, 2nd Test: Aakash Chopra praises Indian pacer says, 'He did not allow us to miss anyone'

All the eight existing IPL franchises revealed their list of retained players on Tuesday evening (November 30). While some big names were retained, many popular names got released. Though many are set to enter the auction pool, some big players are expected to be picked by the two new IPL franchises -- Lucknow and Ahmedabad -- as the two new additions have a license to pick three players each prior to IPL 2022 mega auction.

For the unversed, the big players such as KL Rahul, David Warner, Hardik Pandya, Quinton de Kock, Ben Stokes, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Mohammed Shami, Shreyas Iyer, Shikhar Dhawan, etc. have been released. Hence, the two new IPL teams have quite a few options to pick from.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rashid-khan-to-ben-stokes-top-5-overseas-players-released-by-their-teams-ahead-of-ipl-mega-auction-433867">Rashid Khan to Ben Stokes: Top 5 overseas players released by their teams ahead of IPL mega auction</a>

Before the mega auction, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra named six players who are most likely to be picked by Lucknow and Ahmedabad. Speaking on his Youtube channel, "My first pick is KL Rahul. I feel he will not be able to reach the auction. Punjab Kings wanted to retain him but he didn’t want to. I think he is going to Lucknow and will become the captain of the new team. Rashid Khan is second in the pecking order. I don’t think his name will reach the auction table. He did not want to stay at SunRisers Hyderabad as he has been already approached by a new franchise with a better salary.

My third pick is Shreyas Iyer. He is likely to become captain of the Ahmedabad franchise. He is an important player and will be drafted to a new team. I won’t be surprised to see him lead Ahmedabad as he has already captained Delhi Capitals. Yuzvendra Chahal is another player who might go to Ahmedabad. Ishan Kishan and Hardik Pandya might not be a part of the auction, but Ishan Kishan’s stocks are a bit high at the moment," he opined.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-rahul-iyer-or-warner-aakash-chopra-suggests-virat-kohlis-successor-at-rcb-ahead-of-ipl-2022-433845">Not Rahul, Iyer or Warner! Aakash Chopra suggests Virat Kohli's successor at RCB ahead of IPL 2022</a>

“David Warner will not make it to the auction either. He is a proven match-winner. He has a lot of experience, has won a lot of games, and has scored 600 odds runs in so many seasons. You won’t find a more consistent player than him,” Chopra added.

The IPL 2022 mega auction is likely to be held in early 2022. On the other hand, BCCI secretary Jay Shah had confirmed that the next edition will be held in India.

All the eight existing IPL franchises revealed their list of retained players on Tuesday evening (November 30). While some big names were retained, many popular names got released.

All the eight existing IPL franchises revealed their list of retained players on Tuesday evening (November 30). While some big names were retained, many popular names got released. Though many are set to enter the auction pool, some big players are expected to be picked by the two new IPL franchises -- Lucknow and Ahmedabad -- as the two new additions have a license to pick three players each prior to IPL 2022 mega auction. For the unversed, the big players such as KL Rahul, David Warner, Hardik Pandya, Quinton de Kock, Ben Stokes, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Mohammed Shami, Shreyas Iyer, Shikhar Dhawan, etc. have been released. Hence, the two new IPL teams have quite a few options to pick from. ALSO READ | Rashid Khan to Ben Stokes: Top 5 overseas players released by their teams ahead of IPL mega auction Before the mega auction, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra named six players who are most likely to be picked by Lucknow and Ahmedabad. Speaking on his Youtube channel, "My first pick is KL Rahul. I feel he will not be able to reach the auction. Punjab Kings wanted to retain him but he didn’t want to. I think he is going to Lucknow and will become the captain of the new team. Rashid Khan is second in the pecking order. I don’t think his name will reach the auction table. He did not want to stay at SunRisers Hyderabad as he has been already approached by a new franchise with a better salary. My third pick is Shreyas Iyer. He is likely to become captain of the Ahmedabad franchise. He is an important player and will be drafted to a new team. I won’t be surprised to see him lead Ahmedabad as he has already captained Delhi Capitals. Yuzvendra Chahal is another player who might go to Ahmedabad. Ishan Kishan and Hardik Pandya might not be a part of the auction, but Ishan Kishan’s stocks are a bit high at the moment," he opined. ALSO READ | Not Rahul, Iyer or Warner! Aakash Chopra suggests Virat Kohli's successor at RCB ahead of IPL 2022 “David Warner will not make it to the auction either. He is a proven match-winner. He has a lot of experience, has won a lot of games, and has scored 600 odds runs in so many seasons. You won’t find a more consistent player than him,” Chopra added. The IPL 2022 mega auction is likely to be held in early 2022. On the other hand, BCCI secretary Jay Shah had confirmed that the next edition will be held in India.

Aakash Chopra predicts 6 players who will be picked by Lucknow and Ahmedabad before IPL 2022 auction

All the eight IPL franchises revealed their list of retained players on Tuesday evening (November 30). While some big names were retained by their respective franchises, some known faces got released. As two more teams have been added to the IPL, in the form of Lucknow and Ahmedabad, they will get a chance to pick three players each prior to the IPL 2022 mega auction.

Hence, six players will find themselves being part of the two new teams. On the other hand, the IPL 2022 mega auction will see some marquee players enter the auction pool. Among them, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra feels ex-Mumbai Indians (MI) player Rahul Chahar is likely to get acquired by the Virat Kohli-starrer Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB).

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/robin-uthappa-hints-at-ms-dhonis-successor-as-csk-captain-they-have-given-him-the-due-he-deserved-433772">Robin Uthappa hints at MS Dhoni's successor as CSK captain: 'They have given him the due he deserved'</a>

Chopra said during a Q/A session on his Youtube channel, "RCB will not get Rashid, they can forget about that. Instead, they will go after Rahul Chahar, big time. No spinners apart from leg spinners work at the Chinnaswamy stadium. He also bowls a lot quicker in the air. Ravi Bishnoi is also an option, but I’m thinking Rahul Chahar, they will break the bank for him. Chahal might not make it to the auctions."

It is important to note that RCB have retained Kohli, Glenn Maxwell and Mohammed Siraj. Hence, with no Yuzvendra Chahal, RCB will like to rope in a quality spinner. While Rashid Khan will be very costly, Chopra feels Rahul Chahar can be a handy pick for the Bengaluru franchise.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/csk-rcb-co-are-you-listening-jamacian-sprinter-usain-bolt-eyeing-cricket-career-keen-to-play-in-ipl-433511">CSK, RCB &amp; Co. are you listening? Jamacian sprinter Usain Bolt eyeing cricket career, keen to play in IPL</a>

Talking about the MI franchise, they have released plenty of star players such as Pandya brothers, Trent Boult, Rahul Chahar, Quinton de Kock, Ishan Kishan. All of them are expected to get whopping deals in the forthcoming auction, which is slated to be held early in 2022.

All the eight IPL franchises revealed their list of retained players on Tuesday evening (November 30). While some big names were retained by their respective franchises, some known faces got released.

All the eight IPL franchises revealed their list of retained players on Tuesday evening (November 30). While some big names were retained by their respective franchises, some known faces got released. As two more teams have been added to the IPL, in the form of Lucknow and Ahmedabad, they will get a chance to pick three players each prior to the IPL 2022 mega auction. Hence, six players will find themselves being part of the two new teams. On the other hand, the IPL 2022 mega auction will see some marquee players enter the auction pool. Among them, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra feels ex-Mumbai Indians (MI) player Rahul Chahar is likely to get acquired by the Virat Kohli-starrer Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). ALSO READ | Robin Uthappa hints at MS Dhoni's successor as CSK captain: 'They have given him the due he deserved' Chopra said during a Q/A session on his Youtube channel, "RCB will not get Rashid, they can forget about that. Instead, they will go after Rahul Chahar, big time. No spinners apart from leg spinners work at the Chinnaswamy stadium. He also bowls a lot quicker in the air. Ravi Bishnoi is also an option, but I’m thinking Rahul Chahar, they will break the bank for him. Chahal might not make it to the auctions." It is important to note that RCB have retained Kohli, Glenn Maxwell and Mohammed Siraj. Hence, with no Yuzvendra Chahal, RCB will like to rope in a quality spinner. While Rashid Khan will be very costly, Chopra feels Rahul Chahar can be a handy pick for the Bengaluru franchise. ALSO READ | CSK, RCB & Co. are you listening? Jamacian sprinter Usain Bolt eyeing cricket career, keen to play in IPL Talking about the MI franchise, they have released plenty of star players such as Pandya brothers, Trent Boult, Rahul Chahar, Quinton de Kock, Ishan Kishan. All of them are expected to get whopping deals in the forthcoming auction, which is slated to be held early in 2022.

Not Hardik! Aakash Chopra feels RCB can 'break the bank' for ex-MI player in IPL 2022 mega auction

The three-time runners-up Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) revealed their list of retained players on Tuesday evening (November 30), along with the other seven existing IPL teams. The Bengaluru franchise retained the likes of former skipper Virat Kohli, all-rounder Glenn Maxwell and pacer Mohammed Siraj.

Thus, many star players were releases from the franchise, such as Yuzvendra Chahal, Harshal Patel, Devdutt Padikkal, etc. While the RCB franchise have to rebuild and form a new set of core players, the Bengaluru unit will also have to name a new captain after Kohl stepped aside from the top job post IPL 2021. While some believe Maxwell will land up with the top job, many are of the opinion that KL Rahul, Shreyas Iyer, David Warner or some new face will be added and made the next RCB captain.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-gets-the-best-out-of-csk-nobody-can-doubt-his-skills-as-captain-yellow-armys-ceo-k-viswanathan-433822">MS Dhoni gets the best out of CSK, nobody can doubt his skills as captain: Yellow Army's CEO K Viswanathan</a>

Former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra suggested an interesting name who can captain RCB. On his Youtube channel, he stated, "For RCB, Jason Holder is also an option for captaincy. They need to buy a new captain and it could be Holder. When I think about the pitch over there and other things, I think Holder could be a valuable player. He does well in all the teams."

For the unversed, IPL 2022 will also see two new teams in the form of Lucknow and Ahmedabad. Chopra opened on the probable captaincy options for the new entrants and said, "Teams ideally go towards Indian captains, so the obvious captaincy candidates for the two new teams are KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer. But KL Rahul and Warner are also a possibility. Apart from them, I don’t see anybody. Don’t see teams picking Ishan Kishan or R Ashwin for captaincy."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-hardik-aakash-chopra-feels-rcb-can-break-the-bank-for-ex-mi-player-in-ipl-2022-mega-auction-433796">Not Hardik! Aakash Chopra feels RCB can 'break the bank' for ex-MI player in IPL 2022 mega auction</a>

Before the next edition, a mega auction is slated to be held in early 2022. Prior to the auction, the two new teams will also have a chance to pick three players each from the list of released players. Hence, some big names won't even go to the auction.&nbsp;

The three-time runners-up Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) revealed their list of retained players on Tuesday evening (November 30), along with the other seven existing IPL teams.

The three-time runners-up Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) revealed their list of retained players on Tuesday evening (November 30), along with the other seven existing IPL teams. The Bengaluru franchise retained the likes of former skipper Virat Kohli, all-rounder Glenn Maxwell and pacer Mohammed Siraj. Thus, many star players were releases from the franchise, such as Yuzvendra Chahal, Harshal Patel, Devdutt Padikkal, etc. While the RCB franchise have to rebuild and form a new set of core players, the Bengaluru unit will also have to name a new captain after Kohl stepped aside from the top job post IPL 2021. While some believe Maxwell will land up with the top job, many are of the opinion that KL Rahul, Shreyas Iyer, David Warner or some new face will be added and made the next RCB captain. ALSO READ | MS Dhoni gets the best out of CSK, nobody can doubt his skills as captain: Yellow Army's CEO K Viswanathan Former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra suggested an interesting name who can captain RCB. On his Youtube channel, he stated, "For RCB, Jason Holder is also an option for captaincy. They need to buy a new captain and it could be Holder. When I think about the pitch over there and other things, I think Holder could be a valuable player. He does well in all the teams." For the unversed, IPL 2022 will also see two new teams in the form of Lucknow and Ahmedabad. Chopra opened on the probable captaincy options for the new entrants and said, "Teams ideally go towards Indian captains, so the obvious captaincy candidates for the two new teams are KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer. But KL Rahul and Warner are also a possibility. Apart from them, I don’t see anybody. Don’t see teams picking Ishan Kishan or R Ashwin for captaincy." ALSO READ | Not Hardik! Aakash Chopra feels RCB can 'break the bank' for ex-MI player in IPL 2022 mega auction Before the next edition, a mega auction is slated to be held in early 2022. Prior to the auction, the two new teams will also have a chance to pick three players each from the list of released players. Hence, some big names won't even go to the auction.

Not Rahul, Iyer or Warner! Aakash Chopra suggests Virat Kohli's successor at RCB ahead of IPL 2022

Shubman Gill missed the entire England Test series due to injury. However, he got the opening position back when Ajinkya Rahane-led India locked horns with New Zealand in the two-match Test series opener at Green Park, Kanpur on Thursday morning (November 25).

All eyes were on Gill who was making a comeback after injury. Nonetheless, the youngster didn't disappoint and took sometime before settling in to register&nbsp;his third Test half-century. While he was looking comfortable in the middle as his innings progressed, the 22-year-old departed for a well-made 52. After his knock, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra made heads turn by stating that he doesn't seem convinced with Gill as an opener.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-1st-test-shreyas-iyer-slams-ton-on-debut-joins-rohit-azharuddin-and-other-indians-in-elite-list-432020">Ind vs NZ, 1st Test: Shreyas Iyer slams ton on debut, joins Rohit, Azharuddin and other Indians in elite list</a>

Chopra made the comments while speaking on&nbsp;Star Sports, where he highlighted the flaws in Gill's technique despite his fifty in the opening day of the Kanpur Test.&nbsp;

Chopra stated, "Whenever I see him play, he doesn't look like a Test opener to me. The way he plays inside the line, the outside edge and inside edge are both exposed. But when he plays spin, he is tall and uses his feet well, uses the reach very well, his footwork is impeccable and his defense is also solid. The bat is always in front of the pad," the former Test player added. "In my opinion, he is a middle-order batter, he has been made to open. He has done well as an opener but his true color and form will be seen when he bats in the middle order."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-vvs-laxman-unimpressed-with-ajinkya-rahanes-shot-selection-after-day-1-of-kanpur-test-431926">Ind vs NZ: VVS Laxman unimpressed with Ajinkya Rahane's shot selection after Day 1 of Kanpur Test</a>

Riding on Gill's 52, Shreyas Iyer's maiden ton and Ravindra Jadeja's 50, on debut, Ajinkya Rahane-led India posted 345 all-out in the first innings on Day 2, after electing to bat first. In reply, Kane Williamson-led NZ have started on a good note and will look to come close to India's total by the end of second day's play on Friday (November 26).

Shubman Gill missed the entire England Test series due to injury. However, he got the opening position back when Ajinkya Rahane-led India locked horns with New Zealand in the two-match Test series opener at Green Park, Kanpur on Thursday morning (November 25).

Shubman Gill missed the entire England Test series due to injury. However, he got the opening position back when Ajinkya Rahane-led India locked horns with New Zealand in the two-match Test series opener at Green Park, Kanpur on Thursday morning (November 25). All eyes were on Gill who was making a comeback after injury. Nonetheless, the youngster didn't disappoint and took sometime before settling in to register his third Test half-century. While he was looking comfortable in the middle as his innings progressed, the 22-year-old departed for a well-made 52. After his knock, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra made heads turn by stating that he doesn't seem convinced with Gill as an opener. ALSO READ | Ind vs NZ, 1st Test: Shreyas Iyer slams ton on debut, joins Rohit, Azharuddin and other Indians in elite list Chopra made the comments while speaking on Star Sports, where he highlighted the flaws in Gill's technique despite his fifty in the opening day of the Kanpur Test. Chopra stated, "Whenever I see him play, he doesn't look like a Test opener to me. The way he plays inside the line, the outside edge and inside edge are both exposed. But when he plays spin, he is tall and uses his feet well, uses the reach very well, his footwork is impeccable and his defense is also solid. The bat is always in front of the pad," the former Test player added. "In my opinion, he is a middle-order batter, he has been made to open. He has done well as an opener but his true color and form will be seen when he bats in the middle order." ALSO READ | Ind vs NZ: VVS Laxman unimpressed with Ajinkya Rahane's shot selection after Day 1 of Kanpur Test Riding on Gill's 52, Shreyas Iyer's maiden ton and Ravindra Jadeja's 50, on debut, Ajinkya Rahane-led India posted 345 all-out in the first innings on Day 2, after electing to bat first. In reply, Kane Williamson-led NZ have started on a good note and will look to come close to India's total by the end of second day's play on Friday (November 26).

IND vs NZ: 'He doesn't look like an opener' - Aakash Chopra shares ideal batting position for Shubman Gill

India and New Zealand locked horns with each other in the third and final T20I at the iconic Eden Gardens, Kolkata on Sunday evening (November 21). After taking an unassailable lead in the three T20Is, the Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue gave opportunities to more players and tested themselves by batting first as the hosts do not have a great record when it comes to defending totals.&nbsp;

Batting first, Rohit's 56 and vital contributions from the likes of Ishan Kishan, Shreyas and Venkatesh Iyer, Harshal Patel and Deepak Chahar propelled India's total to 184-7 in 20 overs. In reply, the Mitchell Santner-led Black Caps folded for a paltry 111 in 17.2 overs as Harshal and Axar Patel combined to take five wickets and derail the T20 World Cup finalists' run-chase.

The Rahul Dravid-coached team, thus, ended the series on a high with sparkling performances from many, in the form of Rohit, KL Rahul, Harshal, Axar, Deepak, R Ashwin, etc. Nonetheless, the former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra isn't impressed with one Indian youngster post the NZ series. For the unversed, Rishabh Pant registered scores of 17*, 12*, and 4 in the three-match series against the Black Caps and, hence, Chopra pointed out that the 24-year-old didn't look at his usual best.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-easy-for-nz-to-rahul-dravid-sympathises-with-black-caps-after-india-whitewash-t20i-series-431220">'Not easy for NZ to...' - Rahul Dravid sympathises with Black Caps after India whitewash T20I series</a>

Chopra told speaking on his YouTube channel, "The middle-lower order is still a concern because Rishabh Pant hasn't really batted the way we wanted him to bat. He hasn't batted the way he can bat, you expect more from him. The runs come from his bat, he hits sixes as well but I feel he hasn't yet fully cracked the T20 code, which is a bit of a disappointment. He is absolutely sensational in Tests, it is the format he has cracked easily but he is still figuring out his ways in the other formats."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ajinkya-rahane-is-fortunate-he-is-still-in-indias-test-side-gautam-gambhir-ahead-of-new-zealand-series-431188">Ajinkya Rahane is fortunate he is still in India's Test side: Gautam Gambhir ahead of New Zealand series</a>

&nbsp;

While Pant did finish off the proceedings for India in the opening T20Is, his strike-rate was an issue in two outings. The left-hander will not be seen in action in the series opener of the upcoming two Tests between India and New Zealand as he has been rested. He will now like to return in full swing and strengthen his place across formats.

India and New Zealand locked horns with each other in the third and final T20I at the iconic Eden Gardens, Kolkata on Sunday evening (November 21). After taking an unassailable lead in the three T20Is, the Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue gave opportunities to more players and tested themselves by batting first as the hosts do not have a great record when it comes to defending totals.

India and New Zealand locked horns with each other in the third and final T20I at the iconic Eden Gardens, Kolkata on Sunday evening (November 21). After taking an unassailable lead in the three T20Is, the Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue gave opportunities to more players and tested themselves by batting first as the hosts do not have a great record when it comes to defending totals. Batting first, Rohit's 56 and vital contributions from the likes of Ishan Kishan, Shreyas and Venkatesh Iyer, Harshal Patel and Deepak Chahar propelled India's total to 184-7 in 20 overs. In reply, the Mitchell Santner-led Black Caps folded for a paltry 111 in 17.2 overs as Harshal and Axar Patel combined to take five wickets and derail the T20 World Cup finalists' run-chase. The Rahul Dravid-coached team, thus, ended the series on a high with sparkling performances from many, in the form of Rohit, KL Rahul, Harshal, Axar, Deepak, R Ashwin, etc. Nonetheless, the former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra isn't impressed with one Indian youngster post the NZ series. For the unversed, Rishabh Pant registered scores of 17*, 12*, and 4 in the three-match series against the Black Caps and, hence, Chopra pointed out that the 24-year-old didn't look at his usual best. ALSO READ | 'Not easy for NZ to...' - Rahul Dravid sympathises with Black Caps after India whitewash T20I series Chopra told speaking on his YouTube channel, "The middle-lower order is still a concern because Rishabh Pant hasn't really batted the way we wanted him to bat. He hasn't batted the way he can bat, you expect more from him. The runs come from his bat, he hits sixes as well but I feel he hasn't yet fully cracked the T20 code, which is a bit of a disappointment. He is absolutely sensational in Tests, it is the format he has cracked easily but he is still figuring out his ways in the other formats." ALSO READ | Ajinkya Rahane is fortunate he is still in India's Test side: Gautam Gambhir ahead of New Zealand series While Pant did finish off the proceedings for India in the opening T20Is, his strike-rate was an issue in two outings. The left-hander will not be seen in action in the series opener of the upcoming two Tests between India and New Zealand as he has been rested. He will now like to return in full swing and strengthen his place across formats.

He hasn't batted the way he can: Aakash Chopra names Indian star who disappointed him in NZ T20Is

KL Rahul has been enjoying a purple patch for Team India in T20Is at present as he continues to pile on runs one game after another. Rahul slammed his fourth half-century in the last five T20Is for India as Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. defeated New Zealand by seven wickets in the second T20I of the ongoing three-match series in Ranchi on Sunday.

Rahul scored a magnificent 65 off 49 balls laced with six fours and two sixes to get India off to a flying start. He posted a 117-run stand with his opening partner Rohit Sharma to set up a comfortable victory for the hosts and played some brilliant strokes across all parts of the ground during his knock.

Former India cricketer and cricket expert Aakash Chopra lauded both the Indian openers for their batting exploits but reserved special praise for Rahul, who he termed the best Indian batter in T20s at present. Chopra went on to make a bold prediction regarding Rahul and said he will be the most expensive player in the upcoming IPL mega auction if the Punjab Kings captain makes himself available.

"Rohit and Rahul, what a tone they have. KL Rahul, I am saying it again - he is India's best T20 batsman. There is no better batter than him. He will be the most expensive player if he goes into the IPL auction, if the ceiling is not fixed because of the draft," Chopra said in a video on his YouTube channel.

"If you see the last five matches, he has scored three-four fifties in that. I know he didn't score against Pakistan and New Zealand, but this player is of a different level," he added.

Rahul's score of 15 in the first T20I against New Zealand on Wednesday was the only instance in India's last five T20I matches where he failed to reach the fifty-run mark. He has been in sensational form and has looked in great touch with the willow.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-equals-virat-kohli-a-look-at-records-created-by-indian-skipper-in-2nd-t20i-against-new-zealand-430685">Rohit&nbsp;equals Kohli: A look at records created by Indian skipper in 2nd T20I against New Zealand</a>

Impressed by his stunning stroke play, Chopra said he was left in awe of Rahul's skill level. He lauded the right-hander's ability to take fast bowlers to the cleaners at ease and said he has become a fan of the star batter, who was recently appointed as India's full-time vice-captain in T20Is.

"The six he hits over the covers against the fast bowlers, however, fast you may bowl, it is kamaal and lajawab. Of course, I am a KL Rahul fan, you know it already. You should also be his fan because the skill level is unbelievable," Chopra said.

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KL Rahul has been enjoying a purple patch for Team India in T20Is at present as he continues to pile on runs one game after another. Rahul slammed his fourth half-century in the last five T20Is for India as Rohit Sharma & Co.

KL Rahul has been enjoying a purple patch for Team India in T20Is at present as he continues to pile on runs one game after another. Rahul slammed his fourth half-century in the last five T20Is for India as Rohit Sharma & Co. defeated New Zealand by seven wickets in the second T20I of the ongoing three-match series in Ranchi on Sunday. Rahul scored a magnificent 65 off 49 balls laced with six fours and two sixes to get India off to a flying start. He posted a 117-run stand with his opening partner Rohit Sharma to set up a comfortable victory for the hosts and played some brilliant strokes across all parts of the ground during his knock. Former India cricketer and cricket expert Aakash Chopra lauded both the Indian openers for their batting exploits but reserved special praise for Rahul, who he termed the best Indian batter in T20s at present. Chopra went on to make a bold prediction regarding Rahul and said he will be the most expensive player in the upcoming IPL mega auction if the Punjab Kings captain makes himself available. "Rohit and Rahul, what a tone they have. KL Rahul, I am saying it again - he is India's best T20 batsman. There is no better batter than him. He will be the most expensive player if he goes into the IPL auction, if the ceiling is not fixed because of the draft," Chopra said in a video on his YouTube channel. "If you see the last five matches, he has scored three-four fifties in that. I know he didn't score against Pakistan and New Zealand, but this player is of a different level," he added. Rahul's score of 15 in the first T20I against New Zealand on Wednesday was the only instance in India's last five T20I matches where he failed to reach the fifty-run mark. He has been in sensational form and has looked in great touch with the willow. Also Read: Rohit equals Kohli: A look at records created by Indian skipper in 2nd T20I against New Zealand Impressed by his stunning stroke play, Chopra said he was left in awe of Rahul's skill level. He lauded the right-hander's ability to take fast bowlers to the cleaners at ease and said he has become a fan of the star batter, who was recently appointed as India's full-time vice-captain in T20Is. "The six he hits over the covers against the fast bowlers, however, fast you may bowl, it is kamaal and lajawab. Of course, I am a KL Rahul fan, you know it already. You should also be his fan because the skill level is unbelievable," Chopra said.

Aakash Chopra names India's best T20 batter: 'He will be most expensive player in IPL auction'

Virat Kohli-led India bowed out of the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, being held in the UAE, after not impressing as a unit in the Super 12 round. The one-time winners lost their opening two fixtures, versus Pakistan and New Zealand respectively, by big margins and were on the brink of an early elimination. While the Men in Blue did bounce back and won their remaining three games with ease, they were out of the semi-finals race prior to their last league stage encounter, versus Namibia.

Being touted as one of the strongest contenders for the coveted title, Kohli &amp; Co.'s early exit left the cricketing fraternity in shock whereas the cricket-crazy nation were left disappointed. As India will now begin a new era under Rohit Sharma, with Kohli stepping aside as captain in the shortest format, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra has highlighted some fundamental flaws in Team India selection for T20I cricket.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-pak-spinner-feels-t20i-retirement-on-cards-for-virat-kohli-says-two-groups-exist-in-team-india-428457">Former Pak spinner feels T20I retirement on cards for Virat Kohli, says 'two groups exist in Team India'</a>

"It's a fundamental flaw in our system. I'm going to highlight this, because now, you're thinking about the future. The players you select in T20Is, you should pick them for the slot which are available, and where the selected players have scored runs,” Chopra said on his official Twitter account.

"You give preference to IPL performances which is good, but if you pick a player who has made runs as an opener for, say, number 5 spot in the international team, that won't work. He has scored all runs as an opener, how can you expect him to perform similarly lower down the order?” Chopra said.&nbsp;

"We have 5 openers in the Indian team for the squad against New Zealand. We have only 3 matches; how many opportunities can you give? Rohit and Rahul are obviously going to play -- they are the captain and vice-captain respectively,” he added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-shaheen-afridi-enacts-dismissals-of-indias-top-3-virat-kohli-rohit-and-rahul-on-public-demand-428447">Watch: Shaheen Afridi enacts dismissals of India's top 3 Virat Kohli, Rohit and Rahul on public demand</a>

After the failed T20 WC campaign, India will now move their focus towards the home series versus New Zealand, which will begin from November 17. The home series will comprise three T20Is and two Tests versus the Black Caps.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Rahul Dravid will now also take over as India's head coach, from Ravi Shastri, and hope to take the national side to greater heights -- especially in T20I cricket post the dismal campaign in the ongoing World Cup.

Virat Kohli-led India bowed out of the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, being held in the UAE, after not impressing as a unit in the Super 12 round. The one-time winners lost their opening two fixtures, versus Pakistan and New Zealand respectively, by big margins and were on the brink of an early elimination.

Virat Kohli-led India bowed out of the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, being held in the UAE, after not impressing as a unit in the Super 12 round. The one-time winners lost their opening two fixtures, versus Pakistan and New Zealand respectively, by big margins and were on the brink of an early elimination. While the Men in Blue did bounce back and won their remaining three games with ease, they were out of the semi-finals race prior to their last league stage encounter, versus Namibia. Being touted as one of the strongest contenders for the coveted title, Kohli & Co.'s early exit left the cricketing fraternity in shock whereas the cricket-crazy nation were left disappointed. As India will now begin a new era under Rohit Sharma, with Kohli stepping aside as captain in the shortest format, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra has highlighted some fundamental flaws in Team India selection for T20I cricket. ALSO READ | Former Pak spinner feels T20I retirement on cards for Virat Kohli, says 'two groups exist in Team India' "It's a fundamental flaw in our system. I'm going to highlight this, because now, you're thinking about the future. The players you select in T20Is, you should pick them for the slot which are available, and where the selected players have scored runs,” Chopra said on his official Twitter account. "You give preference to IPL performances which is good, but if you pick a player who has made runs as an opener for, say, number 5 spot in the international team, that won't work. He has scored all runs as an opener, how can you expect him to perform similarly lower down the order?” Chopra said. "We have 5 openers in the Indian team for the squad against New Zealand. We have only 3 matches; how many opportunities can you give? Rohit and Rahul are obviously going to play -- they are the captain and vice-captain respectively,” he added. ALSO READ | Watch: Shaheen Afridi enacts dismissals of India's top 3 Virat Kohli, Rohit and Rahul on public demand After the failed T20 WC campaign, India will now move their focus towards the home series versus New Zealand, which will begin from November 17. The home series will comprise three T20Is and two Tests versus the Black Caps. Meanwhile, Rahul Dravid will now also take over as India's head coach, from Ravi Shastri, and hope to take the national side to greater heights -- especially in T20I cricket post the dismal campaign in the ongoing World Cup.

Aakash Chopra points out 'fundamental flaw' in Team India selection post dismal T20 WC campaign

Coach Tarak Sinha, a mentor to dozens of first-class and international cricketers, passed away on Saturday and was grieved by the cricketing community, with his brightest ward Rishabh Pant admitting the loss has left him devastated.

Sinha passed away on Saturday morning after a protracted illness. He was 71 years old.

Mourning his death, India's star wicket-keeper Pant, who is now in the UAE for the ICC T20 World Cup, said he will remember him every time he steps on&nbsp;the field.

"My mentor, coach, motivator, my biggest critic and my greatest fan. You took care of me like your son, I am devastated. You will always be with me whenever I walk out onto the field. My heartfelt condolences &amp; prayers. May your soul rest in peace, Tarak sir," tweeted Pant.

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My mentor, coach, motivator, my biggest critic and my greatest fan. You took care of me like your son, I am devastated.💔 You will always be with me whenever I walk out onto the field. My heartfelt condolences &amp; prayers. May your soul rest in peace, Tarak sir. 🕊️🙏 <a href="https://t.co/kLE7qlKMXK">pic.twitter.com/kLE7qlKMXK</a>
— Rishabh Pant (@RishabhPant17) <a href="https://twitter.com/RishabhPant17/status/1456936121934364677?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Pant was one of Sinha's sharpest students. Devender Sharma, Sinha's longtime assistant, actively coached him.

Sinha, revered by his pupils as "Ustad ji" was a father figure in Delhi's legendary Sonnet Club, which produced some of the country's greatest cricketers who dominated local and international cricket.

Over the course of over five decades, he nourished, cultivated, and managed raw talent, providing them with a stage to perform and wings to soar through his club.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wasim-jaffer-shares-hilarious-meme-on-t20-wc-semi-final-qualification-scenario-leaves-harbhajan-in-splits-427154">Jaffer shares hilarious meme on T20 WC semi-final qualification scenario, leaves Harbhajan in splits</a>

That is why several of his most prominent pupils (who do not wish to be identified) were monitoring his health and making required arrangements until his death.

Among his earlier&nbsp;students were Delhi cricket legends.

Former India opener Virender Sehwag expressed his sadness after the loss.

"Feel a lot of pain on the demise of passing away of Ustaad ji #TarakSinha. He was one of the rare coaches who gave India more than a dozen Test Cricketers &amp; the values he inculcated in his students helped Indian cricket immensely. Condolences to his family and students," he tweeted.

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Feel a lot of pain on the demise of passing away of Ustaad ji <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TarakSinha?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TarakSinha</a> . 
He was one of the rare coaches who gave India more than a dozen Test Cricketers &amp; the values he inculcated in his students helped Indian cricket immensely.Condolences to his family and students. Om Shanti <a href="https://t.co/cbd089C8Zb">pic.twitter.com/cbd089C8Zb</a>
— Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) <a href="https://twitter.com/virendersehwag/status/1456904652281114634?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Sinha, a lifetime Dronacharya Awardee, has a long list of students who have gone on to play for India, including Surinder Khanna, Manoj Prabhakar, the late Raman Lamba, Ajay Sharma, Atul Wassan, and Sanjiv Sharma.

Sinha coached international players including Aakash Chopra, Anjum Chopra, all-rounder Rumeli Dhar, bowler Ashish Nehra, and Shikhar Dhawan in the post-90s.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-want-controversies-but-questions-will-be-raised-if-new-zealand-lose-against-afghanistan-shoaib-akhtar-427143">&nbsp;Don't want controversies but questions will be raised if New Zealand lose against Afghanistan:&nbsp;Akhtar</a>

"Ustaad Ji is no more. Dronacharya Awardee. Coach to over a dozen India Test cricketers. And scores of first-class cricketers. Both men and women. Without any institutional help. Your service to Indian cricket will be remembered, sir. May your soul R.I.P," Aakash Chopra tweeted.

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Ustaad Ji is no more. Dronacharya Awardee. Coach to over a dozen India Test cricketers. And scores of first-class cricketers. Both men and women. Without any institutional help. Your service to Indian cricket will be remembered, sir. May your soul R.I.P. 
Om Shanti 🙌🙏 <a href="https://t.co/fDmvdJC8vZ">pic.twitter.com/fDmvdJC8vZ</a>
— Aakash Chopra (@cricketaakash) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketaakash/status/1456844321647329280?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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According to Atul Wassan, it was a terrible day for all of the Sonnet Club kids.

"Sad day for me and all sonnetians as we have lost our ustaad ji today. Toiled for decades and shaped careers but never took centre stage. Cricket fraternity has lost a gem. God bless the departed soul. Rip," he wrote on his twitter handle.

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Sad day for me and all sonnetians as we have lost our ustaad ji today . Toiled for decades and shaped careers but never took centre stage . Cricket fraternity has lost a gem . God bless the departed soul . Rip <a href="https://t.co/3pPUe2cZj4">pic.twitter.com/3pPUe2cZj4</a>
— Atul Wassan (@cricketguru) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketguru/status/1456860188669931524?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Former captain of India's national women's cricket team, Anjum Chopra, wrote:

"The Coach! Mr.Tarak Sinha. The nursery of Sonnet Cricket club has seen many international and domestic players (men and women) make their mark. The guide, mentor, coach.&nbsp;May you rest in peace sir."

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The Coach! Mr.Tarak Sinha. The nursery of Sonnet Cricket club has seen many international and domestic players (men and women) make their mark. The guide, mentor, coach … May you rest in peace sir. 🙏 Thank you 🙏 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MyCoach?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MyCoach</a> <a href="https://t.co/mZZsMZ7tEf">pic.twitter.com/mZZsMZ7tEf</a>
— Anjum Chopra (@chopraanjum) <a href="https://twitter.com/chopraanjum/status/1456873262479122432?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Coach Tarak Sinha, a mentor to dozens of first-class and international cricketers, passed away on Saturday and was grieved by the cricketing community, with his brightest ward Rishabh Pant admitting the loss has left him devastated.

Coach Tarak Sinha, a mentor to dozens of first-class and international cricketers, passed away on Saturday and was grieved by the cricketing community, with his brightest ward Rishabh Pant admitting the loss has left him devastated. Sinha passed away on Saturday morning after a protracted illness. He was 71 years old. Mourning his death, India's star wicket-keeper Pant, who is now in the UAE for the ICC T20 World Cup, said he will remember him every time he steps on the field. "My mentor, coach, motivator, my biggest critic and my greatest fan. You took care of me like your son, I am devastated. You will always be with me whenever I walk out onto the field. My heartfelt condolences & prayers. May your soul rest in peace, Tarak sir," tweeted Pant. My mentor, coach, motivator, my biggest critic and my greatest fan. You took care of me like your son, I am devastated.💔 You will always be with me whenever I walk out onto the field. My heartfelt condolences & prayers. May your soul rest in peace, Tarak sir. 🕊️🙏 pic.twitter.com/kLE7qlKMXK — Rishabh Pant (@RishabhPant17) November 6, 2021 × Pant was one of Sinha's sharpest students. Devender Sharma, Sinha's longtime assistant, actively coached him. Sinha, revered by his pupils as "Ustad ji" was a father figure in Delhi's legendary Sonnet Club, which produced some of the country's greatest cricketers who dominated local and international cricket. Over the course of over five decades, he nourished, cultivated, and managed raw talent, providing them with a stage to perform and wings to soar through his club. Also Read: Jaffer shares hilarious meme on T20 WC semi-final qualification scenario, leaves Harbhajan in splits That is why several of his most prominent pupils (who do not wish to be identified) were monitoring his health and making required arrangements until his death. Among his earlier students were Delhi cricket legends. Former India opener Virender Sehwag expressed his sadness after the loss. "Feel a lot of pain on the demise of passing away of Ustaad ji #TarakSinha. He was one of the rare coaches who gave India more than a dozen Test Cricketers & the values he inculcated in his students helped Indian cricket immensely. Condolences to his family and students," he tweeted. Feel a lot of pain on the demise of passing away of Ustaad ji #TarakSinha . He was one of the rare coaches who gave India more than a dozen Test Cricketers & the values he inculcated in his students helped Indian cricket immensely.Condolences to his family and students. Om Shanti pic.twitter.com/cbd089C8Zb — Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) November 6, 2021 × Sinha, a lifetime Dronacharya Awardee, has a long list of students who have gone on to play for India, including Surinder Khanna, Manoj Prabhakar, the late Raman Lamba, Ajay Sharma, Atul Wassan, and Sanjiv Sharma. Sinha coached international players including Aakash Chopra, Anjum Chopra, all-rounder Rumeli Dhar, bowler Ashish Nehra, and Shikhar Dhawan in the post-90s. Also Read: Don't want controversies but questions will be raised if New Zealand lose against Afghanistan: Akhtar "Ustaad Ji is no more. Dronacharya Awardee. Coach to over a dozen India Test cricketers. And scores of first-class cricketers. Both men and women. Without any institutional help. Your service to Indian cricket will be remembered, sir. May your soul R.I.P," Aakash Chopra tweeted. Ustaad Ji is no more. Dronacharya Awardee. Coach to over a dozen India Test cricketers. And scores of first-class cricketers. Both men and women. Without any institutional help. Your service to Indian cricket will be remembered, sir. May your soul R.I.P. Om Shanti 🙌🙏 pic.twitter.com/fDmvdJC8vZ — Aakash Chopra (@cricketaakash) November 6, 2021 × According to Atul Wassan, it was a terrible day for all of the Sonnet Club kids. "Sad day for me and all sonnetians as we have lost our ustaad ji today. Toiled for decades and shaped careers but never took centre stage. Cricket fraternity has lost a gem. God bless the departed soul. Rip," he wrote on his twitter handle. Sad day for me and all sonnetians as we have lost our ustaad ji today . Toiled for decades and shaped careers but never took centre stage . Cricket fraternity has lost a gem . God bless the departed soul . Rip pic.twitter.com/3pPUe2cZj4 — Atul Wassan (@cricketguru) November 6, 2021 × Former captain of India's national women's cricket team, Anjum Chopra, wrote: "The Coach! Mr.Tarak Sinha. The nursery of Sonnet Cricket club has seen many international and domestic players (men and women) make their mark. The guide, mentor, coach. May you rest in peace sir." The Coach! Mr.Tarak Sinha. The nursery of Sonnet Cricket club has seen many international and domestic players (men and women) make their mark. The guide, mentor, coach … May you rest in peace sir. 🙏 Thank you 🙏 #MyCoach pic.twitter.com/mZZsMZ7tEf — Anjum Chopra (@chopraanjum) November 6, 2021 ×

Pant, Sehwag and others pay tribute as cricket coach Tarak Sinha passes away at 71

Virat Kohli-led India thrashed Afghanistan by 66 runs in their third clash of the Super 12 round in the T20 World Cup, on Wednesday (November 3) at the Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi. Being asked to bat first, India rode on scintillating half-centuries from openers Rohit Sharma (74) and KL Rahul (69) as the one-time winners posted a mammoth 210-2 in 20 overs.

In reply, Afghanistan lost early wickets and were restricted to 144-7 courtesy Mohammed Shami's 3-fer and R Ashwin's 2 for 14. Despite India's convincing win, a Pakistani actor named Sehar&nbsp;Shinwari wasn't impressed with the Indian team and accused the BCCI of 'fixing' the India-Afghanistan face-off.&nbsp;

Shinwari responded to former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aaksh Chopra's tweet, where the latter lauded Team India and wrote, "This is how it is done. India played like India". To this, the actor wrote, "BCCI bought a good match".&nbsp;

Nonetheless, Chopra had the last laugh as he came up with an epic response and slammed the actor. Here's how it all panned out:

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/video-ravindra-jadejas-reaction-goes-viral-after-unsuccessful-catch-attempt-netizens-hail-his-athleticism-426541">Video: Ravindra Jadeja's reaction goes viral after unsuccessful catch attempt; netizens hail his athleticism</a>

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BCCI bought a good match <a href="https://t.co/2SWhLRbAig">https://t.co/2SWhLRbAig</a>
— Sehar Shinwari (@SeharShinwari) <a href="https://twitter.com/SeharShinwari/status/1455959149955665923?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 3, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://t.co/ezg5o98KOh">https://t.co/ezg5o98KOh</a> <a href="https://t.co/KnxQkIDjQi">pic.twitter.com/KnxQkIDjQi</a>
— Aakash Chopra (@cricketaakash) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketaakash/status/1455962617202216963?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 3, 2021</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-can-india-still-make-it-to-the-semi-final-here-are-the-possible-permutations-426542">T20 World Cup: Can India still make it to the semi-final? Here are the possible permutations</a>

Despite the big win, India still remain alive in the semi-finals race but need to emerge on top of their oppositions in the remaining two fixtures and also hope for other results to favour them. The Kohli-led Indian team will next lock horns with Scotland, on Friday (November 5), whereas they will play their last match in the Super 12 round versus Namibia.&nbsp;

After beating Afghanistan, Indian captain Kohli said at the post-match presentation, "We spoke about the fact that in the other games, if we just had two overs of free-flowing batting, then that sends a message to the opposition that we are going to put you under the pump. When we do that, we know how we can play. Sometimes, you do fall to the pressure and have to accept that. T20 cricket is a very instinctive game, in batting, bowling and decision-making. We do make decisions on the go."

Virat Kohli-led India thrashed Afghanistan by 66 runs in their third clash of the Super 12 round in the T20 World Cup, on Wednesday (November 3) at the Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi.

Virat Kohli-led India thrashed Afghanistan by 66 runs in their third clash of the Super 12 round in the T20 World Cup, on Wednesday (November 3) at the Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi. Being asked to bat first, India rode on scintillating half-centuries from openers Rohit Sharma (74) and KL Rahul (69) as the one-time winners posted a mammoth 210-2 in 20 overs. In reply, Afghanistan lost early wickets and were restricted to 144-7 courtesy Mohammed Shami's 3-fer and R Ashwin's 2 for 14. Despite India's convincing win, a Pakistani actor named Sehar Shinwari wasn't impressed with the Indian team and accused the BCCI of 'fixing' the India-Afghanistan face-off. Shinwari responded to former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aaksh Chopra's tweet, where the latter lauded Team India and wrote, "This is how it is done. India played like India". To this, the actor wrote, "BCCI bought a good match". Nonetheless, Chopra had the last laugh as he came up with an epic response and slammed the actor. Here's how it all panned out: ALSO READ | Video: Ravindra Jadeja's reaction goes viral after unsuccessful catch attempt; netizens hail his athleticism BCCI bought a good match https://t.co/2SWhLRbAig — Sehar Shinwari (@SeharShinwari) November 3, 2021 × https://t.co/ezg5o98KOh pic.twitter.com/KnxQkIDjQi — Aakash Chopra (@cricketaakash) November 3, 2021 × ALSO READ | T20 World Cup: Can India still make it to the semi-final? Here are the possible permutations Despite the big win, India still remain alive in the semi-finals race but need to emerge on top of their oppositions in the remaining two fixtures and also hope for other results to favour them. The Kohli-led Indian team will next lock horns with Scotland, on Friday (November 5), whereas they will play their last match in the Super 12 round versus Namibia. After beating Afghanistan, Indian captain Kohli said at the post-match presentation, "We spoke about the fact that in the other games, if we just had two overs of free-flowing batting, then that sends a message to the opposition that we are going to put you under the pump. When we do that, we know how we can play. Sometimes, you do fall to the pressure and have to accept that. T20 cricket is a very instinctive game, in batting, bowling and decision-making. We do make decisions on the go."

EPIC! Aakash Chopra reacts as Pakistani actor accuses BCCI of 'fixing' India vs Afghanistan T20 WC clash

India lost their second game on the trot in the Super 12 round of the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, in the UAE, after going down to New Zealand by eight wickets on Sunday (October 31). Playing their second game, at the same venue i.e. the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai, the Men in Blue fell like nine pins as they managed only a paltry 110/7 in 20 overs -- being asked to bat first -- before the Kiwis completed the run-chase with 33 balls to spare.

While nothing clicked for Team India, the move to demote their biggest match-opener Rohit Sharma, at No. 3, and accommodate Ishan Kishan at the top raised quite a few eyebrows. Former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra has slammed Virat Kohli &amp; Co. to shift Hitman to the No. 3 position after the drubbing versus the Black Caps.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-looked-jaded-dilip-vengsarkar-slams-kohli-co-feels-r-ashwins-snub-is-a-matter-of-investigation-425929">India looked jaded: Dilip Vengsarkar slams Kohli &amp; Co., feels R Ashwin's snub is a 'matter of investigation'</a>

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Chopra opined, "You played Ishan Kishan because Suryakumar Yadav was not fit and made him open. In order to play the left-right combination, you made your biggest match-winner come down in the order. You changed your set batting order (1,2,3) after just one loss and that is fundamentally wrong. I don’t think that can be justified."

"This thing (opening with Kishan) in turn exposed the selection procedure. The team you had picked had only one extra batsman. The team had several spinners but only one extra batter and that too an opener. If a middle-order batter gets unfit, you are left with no option but to play that opener. That throws the batting line-up out of order. The team already had three openers (Rohit, KL Rahul, Kishan). Even Sky could have opened but there were no middle-order batters as back-up. This was a two-way problem and just dismantling the opening combination was not the right thing to do. India's hands were tied in the end," he stated.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/youll-have-to-face-the-nation-md-azharuddin-slams-virat-kohli-for-skipping-presser-after-nz-loss-425910">You'll have to face the nation: Md Azharuddin slams Virat Kohli for skipping presser after NZ loss</a>

After the loss against the NZ, India are on the brink of elimination. They need to win versus the Afghanistan cricket team, on Wednesday (November 3), to stay alive in the semi-finals race. Another defeat will end their campaign versus the Men in Blue.&nbsp;

So far, nothing has clicked for Team India. Their mainstays with the bat have struggled for runs, the bowlers haven't looked daunting (although they didn't have much to defend versus the Kiwis) whereas the team selection and tactics have also been questionable.

India lost their second game on the trot in the Super 12 round of the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, in the UAE, after going down to New Zealand by eight wickets on Sunday (October 31).

India lost their second game on the trot in the Super 12 round of the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, in the UAE, after going down to New Zealand by eight wickets on Sunday (October 31). Playing their second game, at the same venue i.e. the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai, the Men in Blue fell like nine pins as they managed only a paltry 110/7 in 20 overs -- being asked to bat first -- before the Kiwis completed the run-chase with 33 balls to spare. While nothing clicked for Team India, the move to demote their biggest match-opener Rohit Sharma, at No. 3, and accommodate Ishan Kishan at the top raised quite a few eyebrows. Former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra has slammed Virat Kohli & Co. to shift Hitman to the No. 3 position after the drubbing versus the Black Caps. ALSO READ | India looked jaded: Dilip Vengsarkar slams Kohli & Co., feels R Ashwin's snub is a 'matter of investigation' Speaking on his YouTube channel, Chopra opined, "You played Ishan Kishan because Suryakumar Yadav was not fit and made him open. In order to play the left-right combination, you made your biggest match-winner come down in the order. You changed your set batting order (1,2,3) after just one loss and that is fundamentally wrong. I don’t think that can be justified." "This thing (opening with Kishan) in turn exposed the selection procedure. The team you had picked had only one extra batsman. The team had several spinners but only one extra batter and that too an opener. If a middle-order batter gets unfit, you are left with no option but to play that opener. That throws the batting line-up out of order. The team already had three openers (Rohit, KL Rahul, Kishan). Even Sky could have opened but there were no middle-order batters as back-up. This was a two-way problem and just dismantling the opening combination was not the right thing to do. India's hands were tied in the end," he stated. ALSO READ | You'll have to face the nation: Md Azharuddin slams Virat Kohli for skipping presser after NZ loss After the loss against the NZ, India are on the brink of elimination. They need to win versus the Afghanistan cricket team, on Wednesday (November 3), to stay alive in the semi-finals race. Another defeat will end their campaign versus the Men in Blue. So far, nothing has clicked for Team India. Their mainstays with the bat have struggled for runs, the bowlers haven't looked daunting (although they didn't have much to defend versus the Kiwis) whereas the team selection and tactics have also been questionable.

'Your biggest match-winner...' - Aakash Chopra slams Virat Kohli-led India for Rohit Sharma's demotion

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