Indian captain Rohit Sharma and chief selector Ajit Agarkar addressed the media on Thursday (May 2) regarding the squad picked for the T20 World Cup,&nbsp;scheduled to get underway in the West Indies and USA next month. Quizzed about the controversial exclusion of Rinku Singh, Agarkar said it was the 'toughest' decision he has had to take and that Rinku had nothing wrong to deserve the snub.&nbsp;

The fans and former cricketers have been fuming ever since Rinku was dropped from the squad, despite having proven&nbsp;his worth in the shortest format of the game, whenever given a chance.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Toughest thing we have had to do. He [Rinku]&nbsp;has done nothing wrong or for that matter Shubman Gill. It is about the combination...we are not sure about the conditions we will get," said Agarkar.&nbsp;

"We wanted to try and have enough options. There are&nbsp;a couple of wrist spinners included - Chahal and Kuldeep to give Rohit more options. Axar, again, a batting allrounder or rather bowling allrounder," he added.&nbsp;

Agarkar, who donned the Indian jersey in four T20Is said it was unfortunate that Rinku missed out on the WC flight.&nbsp;

"It&nbsp;is just unfortunate, I don't think it has anything to do with Rinku. It is not his ball that he has&nbsp;missed out," said Agarkar.&nbsp;

"He is still one of the travelling subs, that's how close he was. I know it can be a little bit tough on him but at the end of the day, you can only pick 15."

Addressing concerns about why four spinners were included in the squad when one of the places could have gone to Rinku, Rohit cleared that he wanted four spinners in the squad.

"I wanted four spinners. The match starts at 10 in the morning and there is little technical aspect involved. I won't give the entire reason for it," said Rohit.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2024-youve-made-him-a-scapegoat-former-indian-cricketer-blasts-bcci-for-rinku-singhs-exclusion-717014">Also read |&nbsp;'You've made him a scapegoat', former Indian cricketer blasts BCCI for Rinku Singh's exclusion from WC squad</a>

<h2>Fans furious</h2>

Ever since making his debut for the Indian team in the T20 format, Rinku has been one of the most consistent batters.&nbsp;In his short 15-match T20I career so far, Rinku has scored 356 runs at an enviable average of 89 and strike rate of 176.24.&nbsp;

Despite the stats backing Rinku's ability,&nbsp;the selectors opted to go with Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube as the preferred finishers, primarily due to their bowling abilities.

"We want someone in the middle over to play that role [hitting big]&nbsp;and play&nbsp;freely and we picked Dube based on what he's done in IPL. We spoke about it and selected but our playing XI isn't guaranteed," said Rohit on Dube's selection.&nbsp;&nbsp;

On Wednesday (May 1), Rinku's father, Khanchandra Singh,&nbsp; revealed that his son was heartbroken after being excluded from the squad.&nbsp;

India squad:&nbsp;

Rohit Sharma (c), Hardik Pandya (vc), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohd. Siraj

Reserves:&nbsp;Shubman Gill, Rinku Singh, Khaleel Ahmed and Avesh Khan

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian captain Rohit Sharma and chief selector Ajit Agarkar addressed the media on Thursday (May 2) regarding the squad picked for the T20 World Cup, scheduled to get underway in the West Indies and USA next month.

Indian captain Rohit Sharma and chief selector Ajit Agarkar addressed the media on Thursday (May 2) regarding the squad picked for the T20 World Cup, scheduled to get underway in the West Indies and USA next month. Quizzed about the controversial exclusion of Rinku Singh, Agarkar said it was the 'toughest' decision he has had to take and that Rinku had nothing wrong to deserve the snub. The fans and former cricketers have been fuming ever since Rinku was dropped from the squad, despite having proven his worth in the shortest format of the game, whenever given a chance. "Toughest thing we have had to do. He [Rinku] has done nothing wrong or for that matter Shubman Gill. It is about the combination...we are not sure about the conditions we will get," said Agarkar. "We wanted to try and have enough options. There are a couple of wrist spinners included - Chahal and Kuldeep to give Rohit more options. Axar, again, a batting allrounder or rather bowling allrounder," he added. Agarkar, who donned the Indian jersey in four T20Is said it was unfortunate that Rinku missed out on the WC flight. "It is just unfortunate, I don't think it has anything to do with Rinku. It is not his ball that he has missed out," said Agarkar. "He is still one of the travelling subs, that's how close he was. I know it can be a little bit tough on him but at the end of the day, you can only pick 15." Addressing concerns about why four spinners were included in the squad when one of the places could have gone to Rinku, Rohit cleared that he wanted four spinners in the squad. "I wanted four spinners. The match starts at 10 in the morning and there is little technical aspect involved. I won't give the entire reason for it," said Rohit. Also read | 'You've made him a scapegoat', former Indian cricketer blasts BCCI for Rinku Singh's exclusion from WC squad Fans furious Ever since making his debut for the Indian team in the T20 format, Rinku has been one of the most consistent batters. In his short 15-match T20I career so far, Rinku has scored 356 runs at an enviable average of 89 and strike rate of 176.24. Despite the stats backing Rinku's ability, the selectors opted to go with Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube as the preferred finishers, primarily due to their bowling abilities. "We want someone in the middle over to play that role [hitting big] and play freely and we picked Dube based on what he's done in IPL. We spoke about it and selected but our playing XI isn't guaranteed," said Rohit on Dube's selection. On Wednesday (May 1), Rinku's father, Khanchandra Singh, revealed that his son was heartbroken after being excluded from the squad. India squad: Rohit Sharma (c), Hardik Pandya (vc), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohd. Siraj Reserves: Shubman Gill, Rinku Singh, Khaleel Ahmed and Avesh Khan (With inputs from agencies)

'He has done nothing...': Ajit Agarkar on Rinku Singh's exclusion from T20 WC squad

The Indian men’s cricket team&nbsp;selection committee&nbsp;is set&nbsp;to announce the squad for the upcoming&nbsp;T20 World Cup as the suspense surrounding the&nbsp;squad&nbsp;will finally&nbsp;come to an&nbsp;end.&nbsp;The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will&nbsp;hold a meeting&nbsp;in Ahmedabad on Tuesday (April 30) to announce the 15-member squad set to be led by Rohit Sharma. Everyone’s eyes will be on the inclusion of Rishabh Pant and Virat Kohli, with the former set to&nbsp;make his&nbsp;return to the Indian team.

<h2>Selection committee to lift the lid</h2>

Led by Ajit Agarkar, the selection committee has been&nbsp;keeping a close eye on&nbsp;all the players and their performances in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL).&nbsp;However, according to reports,&nbsp;it is&nbsp;the merits of the players&nbsp;that&nbsp;will determine their position in the team rather than their performances in the IPL 2024.&nbsp;According to reports, the selection committee will welcome back Pant in the Indian team after more than 18 months&nbsp;having&nbsp;suffered a near-fatal car accident in December 2022.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-mens-t20-world-cup-2024-all-team-squad-india-nz-australia-england-pakistan-south-africa-west-indies-716322">ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024: Latest updates of all squads named so far</a>

Virat Kohli will be another name who has been in the spotlight but&nbsp;is expected&nbsp;to board the flight to the USA and the West Indies. Virat has played only three T20Is since&nbsp;the 2022 edition of the T20 World Cup and&nbsp;is currently in the running for the Orange Cap in IPL 2024. He also scored a hundred in the IPL 2024 against Rajasthan Royals. Suryakumar Yadav of Mumbai Indians is another name guaranteed to make the Indian squad&nbsp;having&nbsp;impressed in the 2022 edition in Australia.

In the bowling department, Jasprit Bumrah&nbsp;is guaranteed&nbsp;to be one of the pacers&nbsp;while&nbsp; Yuzvendra&nbsp;Chahal’s T20 form should see him make the squad. Ravindra Jadeja and Kuldeep Yadav will be India’s spin options&nbsp;which&nbsp;could likely keep Axar Patel out of the&nbsp;squad.

According to reports, Shubman Gill and Hardik Pandya&nbsp;are expected&nbsp;to sit out of the Indian team as they struggle for form and places in competition.

The Indian men’s cricket team selection committee is set to announce the squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup as the suspense surrounding the squad will finally come to an end.

The Indian men’s cricket team selection committee is set to announce the squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup as the suspense surrounding the squad will finally come to an end. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will hold a meeting in Ahmedabad on Tuesday (April 30) to announce the 15-member squad set to be led by Rohit Sharma. Everyone’s eyes will be on the inclusion of Rishabh Pant and Virat Kohli, with the former set to make his return to the Indian team. Selection committee to lift the lid Led by Ajit Agarkar, the selection committee has been keeping a close eye on all the players and their performances in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL). However, according to reports, it is the merits of the players that will determine their position in the team rather than their performances in the IPL 2024. According to reports, the selection committee will welcome back Pant in the Indian team after more than 18 months having suffered a near-fatal car accident in December 2022. ALSO READ | ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024: Latest updates of all squads named so far Virat Kohli will be another name who has been in the spotlight but is expected to board the flight to the USA and the West Indies. Virat has played only three T20Is since the 2022 edition of the T20 World Cup and is currently in the running for the Orange Cap in IPL 2024. He also scored a hundred in the IPL 2024 against Rajasthan Royals. Suryakumar Yadav of Mumbai Indians is another name guaranteed to make the Indian squad having impressed in the 2022 edition in Australia. In the bowling department, Jasprit Bumrah is guaranteed to be one of the pacers while Yuzvendra Chahal’s T20 form should see him make the squad. Ravindra Jadeja and Kuldeep Yadav will be India’s spin options which could likely keep Axar Patel out of the squad. According to reports, Shubman Gill and Hardik Pandya are expected to sit out of the Indian team as they struggle for form and places in competition.

T20 World Cup: Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee to announce India squad on April 30; eyes on Pant, Kohli

The Indian men’s team selection panel led by Ajit Agarkar will have a tough decision in hand to choose the team for the upcoming T20 World Cup in the USA and the West Indies. Ahead of the team selection, one of the reports has suggested that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is considering dropping Hardik Pandya from the Indian squad and instead naming Rishabh Pant as the&nbsp;vice-captain. India will try to end their 17-year wait for the T20 World Cup victory this year as Rohit Sharma and Co. aim to end their 11-year wait for an ICC trophy.

<h2>Pant instead of&nbsp;Pandya in T20 World Cup?</h2>

According to Cricbuzz, the selectors&nbsp;are strongly considering&nbsp;Pant as an alternative for Pandya in the deputy's role. While the selectors panel will not consider Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 as the performance matrix to choose the team, they still reckon that Pant will be a better choice to be Rohit’s deputy. Pandya’s performance&nbsp;in the IPL 2024 is also a&nbsp;major&nbsp;concern for the selectors as he struggled with the ball.

Bringing Pant into the Indian side will help team India resolve two issues&nbsp;including&nbsp;the&nbsp; wicketkeeper&nbsp;and pinch-hitter’s role.&nbsp;Alongside,&nbsp;Dinesh Karthik, Sanju Samson and KL Rahul, Pant is one of the prominent options to play as a wicketkeeper. If Pant does return to the Indian side, it will be his first match for the national side since December 2022, when he represented India against Bangladesh in the Test series.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-virat-kohli-hilariously-interrupts-shubman-gills-captaincy-during-rcbs-big-win-over-gt-watch-716171">IPL 2024: Virat Kohli hilariously interrupts Shubman Gill's captaincy during RCB's big win over GT - Watch</a>

Ahead of selection, the panel is also keeping tabs on other departments&nbsp;with&nbsp;players like Shubman Gill and Mohammed Siraj on the brink of getting dropped.&nbsp;While form is not an issue for them getting dropped,&nbsp;it is competition for places that&nbsp;could force Gill and Siraj to sit out.

For now,&nbsp;the likes of&nbsp;Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra&nbsp;Jadeja,&nbsp;remain the only names assured of a place in the team.

The Indian men’s team selection panel led by Ajit Agarkar will have a tough decision in hand to choose the team for the upcoming T20 World Cup in the USA and the West Indies.

The Indian men’s team selection panel led by Ajit Agarkar will have a tough decision in hand to choose the team for the upcoming T20 World Cup in the USA and the West Indies. Ahead of the team selection, one of the reports has suggested that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is considering dropping Hardik Pandya from the Indian squad and instead naming Rishabh Pant as the vice-captain. India will try to end their 17-year wait for the T20 World Cup victory this year as Rohit Sharma and Co. aim to end their 11-year wait for an ICC trophy. Pant instead of Pandya in T20 World Cup? According to Cricbuzz, the selectors are strongly considering Pant as an alternative for Pandya in the deputy's role. While the selectors panel will not consider Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 as the performance matrix to choose the team, they still reckon that Pant will be a better choice to be Rohit’s deputy. Pandya’s performance in the IPL 2024 is also a major concern for the selectors as he struggled with the ball. Bringing Pant into the Indian side will help team India resolve two issues including the wicketkeeper and pinch-hitter’s role. Alongside, Dinesh Karthik, Sanju Samson and KL Rahul, Pant is one of the prominent options to play as a wicketkeeper. If Pant does return to the Indian side, it will be his first match for the national side since December 2022, when he represented India against Bangladesh in the Test series. ALSO READ | IPL 2024: Virat Kohli hilariously interrupts Shubman Gill's captaincy during RCB's big win over GT - Watch Ahead of selection, the panel is also keeping tabs on other departments with players like Shubman Gill and Mohammed Siraj on the brink of getting dropped. While form is not an issue for them getting dropped, it is competition for places that could force Gill and Siraj to sit out. For now, the likes of Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja, remain the only names assured of a place in the team.

T20 World Cup 2024: Rishabh Pant to be considered for vice-captaincy ahead of Hardik Pandya - Report

BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar and India captain Rohit Sharma are said to have an informal meeting on the team selection for the upcoming 2024 T20 World Cup (in the Caribbean and the USA) in New Delhi as the deadline date (May 1) for the squad submission nears.

BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar and India captain Rohit Sharma are said to have an informal meeting on the team selection for the upcoming 2024 T20 World Cup (in the Caribbean and the USA) in New Delhi as the deadline date (May 1) for the squad submission nears. Under ICC’s regulations, all participating teams must submit their final squads one month before the start of the tournament, which gets underway on June 1. As per the latest reports, Agarkar flew to the national capital to watch the Delhi Capitals vs Mumbai Indians IPL clash the other day and is said to be sitting with Rohit before the selectors decide on the final 15 for the 20-team tournament. Although most of the first-team players will walk into the side for the marquee event, the decision-makers will discuss the selection of a couple of players. Earlier reports suggested that there won’t be many surprises in the final 15, with the focus on MI captain Hardik Pandya. Under Pandya’s captaincy, Mumbai has struggled to find a rhythm, losing six out of the nine contested matches. While Pandya looks out of sorts as he struggles with the bat in hand, selectors would look into how he bowls as they wish to name one of the two between Pandya and Shivam Dube for the all-rounders’ slot in the Indian Team. ALSO READ: IPL 2024: CSK coach Michael Hussey comes in defence of Ravindra Jadeja over batting concerns Meanwhile, Dube has pressed for his case for selection with his outstanding show this season, with the ball in the selectors’ court on whom to pick. Outside of the regulars, including Rishabh Pant as the first-choice keeper, KL Rahul is said to be leading the race for the backup choice, with Sanju Samson lagging despite power showing in IPL 2024. For the middle and lower order, two batters to be discussed are Rinku Singh and MI’s Tilak Varma. While both have impressed with their constant performances this season, Rinku might make the cut ahead of Varma. Who’d be the bowlers? Ace seamer Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj and Arshdeep Singh are the likely contenders for the pace department; the selectors are also keen on picking two spin-bowling all-rounders in Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel, with Kuldeep Yadav being the lone specialist. However, the selectors are not ruling out the inclusion of Yuzvendra Chahal or Ravi Bishnoi as the second-choice spinner, with Avesh Khan and Mukesh Kumar in line to find a place in the side for the 2024 T20 World Cup.

T20 World Cup: Agarkar, Rohit to have informal meeting on team selection in Delhi as deadline date nears

India captain Rohit Sharma has debunked claims of a top-tier meeting with head coach Rahul Dravid and BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar to decide on the 2024 T20 World Cup squad. Per Rohit, all three concerned names are in different parts of the world and have not spoken on this, let alone meeting. While Rohit is playing IPL 2024 for Mumbai Indians, Agarkar is said to be in Dubai, and Dravid is busy with his family in his hometown Bengaluru.

Following the England Tests at home, speculations surrounding changes in Indian cricket team are making headlines, with the T20 World Cup being the highlight. Earlier, as per several media reports, all three were said to have met to discuss the squad for the 20-team-tournament in the Caribbean and the USA starting June 1.

Reports suggested that Rohit, Dravid and Agarkar talked about Hardik Pandya's future in the white-ball side, given his exploits in the ongoing cash-rich league, wherein his lack of bowling has raised tensions for the India captain and selectors.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-playing-for-bengaluru-would-have-been-ideal-lsgs-kl-rahul-hints-at-future-switch-712657">IPL 2024: 'Playing for Bengaluru would have been ideal' - LSG's KL Rahul hints at future switch</a>

"I haven't met anyone," Rohit said during the Club Prairie Fire podcast involving Michael Vaughan and Adam Gilchrist. "Ajit Agarkar is somewhere in Dubai playing golf, and Rahul Dravid is actually watching his kids play in Bengaluru... We haven't met, to be honest."

"In today's day and age, unless you hear it from either myself or Rahul himself or Ajit himself or someone from BCCI coming and talking in front of the camera, everything is fake," he continued.&nbsp;

<h2>Pressure on selectors to pick right squad</h2>

Despite India coming agonisingly close to winning the home World Cup last year, they failed, losing to Australia in the summit clash by six wickets. As the Men in Blue look to end their trophy drought at the top level, the 2024 T20 World Cup comes across as a perfect opportunity.

However, with that comes a bigger risk of picking the right players for the&nbsp;format. Considering that IPL performances will play a role in selectors naming a final 15 for the marquee event, some players have failed to live up to their hype this season.&nbsp;

While the selectors have their eyes set on the newcomers trying to break into the bigger picture, they cannot overlook what experienced players have brought to the table before.&nbsp;

The selection committee would name the squad around April end or beginning of May.&nbsp;

India captain Rohit Sharma has debunked claims of a top-tier meeting with head coach Rahul Dravid and BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar to decide on the 2024 T20 World Cup squad.

India captain Rohit Sharma has debunked claims of a top-tier meeting with head coach Rahul Dravid and BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar to decide on the 2024 T20 World Cup squad. Per Rohit, all three concerned names are in different parts of the world and have not spoken on this, let alone meeting. While Rohit is playing IPL 2024 for Mumbai Indians, Agarkar is said to be in Dubai, and Dravid is busy with his family in his hometown Bengaluru. Following the England Tests at home, speculations surrounding changes in Indian cricket team are making headlines, with the T20 World Cup being the highlight. Earlier, as per several media reports, all three were said to have met to discuss the squad for the 20-team-tournament in the Caribbean and the USA starting June 1. Reports suggested that Rohit, Dravid and Agarkar talked about Hardik Pandya's future in the white-ball side, given his exploits in the ongoing cash-rich league, wherein his lack of bowling has raised tensions for the India captain and selectors. ALSO READ: IPL 2024: 'Playing for Bengaluru would have been ideal' - LSG's KL Rahul hints at future switch "I haven't met anyone," Rohit said during the Club Prairie Fire podcast involving Michael Vaughan and Adam Gilchrist. "Ajit Agarkar is somewhere in Dubai playing golf, and Rahul Dravid is actually watching his kids play in Bengaluru... We haven't met, to be honest." "In today's day and age, unless you hear it from either myself or Rahul himself or Ajit himself or someone from BCCI coming and talking in front of the camera, everything is fake," he continued. Pressure on selectors to pick right squad Despite India coming agonisingly close to winning the home World Cup last year, they failed, losing to Australia in the summit clash by six wickets. As the Men in Blue look to end their trophy drought at the top level, the 2024 T20 World Cup comes across as a perfect opportunity. However, with that comes a bigger risk of picking the right players for the format. Considering that IPL performances will play a role in selectors naming a final 15 for the marquee event, some players have failed to live up to their hype this season. While the selectors have their eyes set on the newcomers trying to break into the bigger picture, they cannot overlook what experienced players have brought to the table before. The selection committee would name the squad around April end or beginning of May.

Rohit Sharma debunks claims of top-tier meeting with Dravid, Agarkar regarding T20 World Cup squad

BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar has heaped praise on Virat Kohli ahead of the T20 World Cup team selection. Agarkar said Kohli had revolutionised the fitness benchmarks in Indian cricket and that those aspiring to take up the sport had been massively influenced by him.

BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar has heaped praise on Virat Kohli ahead of the T20 World Cup team selection. Agarkar said Kohli had revolutionised the fitness benchmarks in Indian cricket and that those aspiring to take up the sport had been massively influenced by him. Agarkar's praise should come as assurance for Kohli fans who have been worried that the former Indian captain would not be on the plane to the US and West Indies for the marquee tournament. "Look at Virat. He is one of those guys who has set a benchmark. 10-15 years into his career, he has only gotten fitter. And you can see the results. If someone like him sets an example, puts forward certain things that you need, certain fitness levels you need, gradually it has progressed. BCCI has been instrumental as well with all the academies that have happened," said Agarkar at SportifywithPRG podcast. "You learn a lot quicker. Boys today at 15-16 are a lot fitter than what they were and they should be now with the amount of knowledge, awareness and facilities available," Agarkar, who played 26 Tests and 191 ODIs for India, added. Also read | IPL 2024: RCB batter Virat Kohli's record-extending ton against RR slowest in league history Kohli under scrutiny Notably, Kohli came under heavy scrutiny after the match against Rajasthan Royals last week where he smashed his eighth IPL century. However, it was the joint-slowest century in IPL history, alongside Manish Pandey's 67-ball ton against Deccan Chargers in 2009. Pundits argued that Kohli's inning was more counterproductive to RCB's cause as the team only lost three wickets in the stipulated 20 overs. RCB finished with only 183 on the board and eventually lost the contest by six wickets as Jos Buttler smashed a 58-ball hundred. Also read | IPL: Bowlers To Have Dismissed Virat Kohli Most Number of Times With T20 cricket constantly evolving, a section of fans believes that Kohli's archaic style of anchoring the innings and going big at the end could cost the Indian squad another ICC trophy. There have been multiple reports in the past few weeks suggesting that power hitters like Rinku Singh, Shivam Dube, Suryakumar Yadav and Jitesh Sharma will be preferred over Kohli. Agarkar-led selection committee is expected to pick the squad for the tournament between the last week of April and the first week of May. (With inputs from agencies)

BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar heaps praise on Virat Kohli ahead of T20 WC selection

BCCI has formed a three-member committee that includes Indian men's team head coach&nbsp;Rahul Dravid, National Cricket Academy chairman VVS Laxman and men’s chief selector Ajit Agarkar, to provide suggestions to improve and boost domestic cricket setup, according to a report in Times of India.&nbsp;

The decision was taken at BCCI's Apex Council meeting on Monday (Mar 18) where concerns were raised about the challenges domestic cricket was facing in the country.

"There were a lot of issues that cropped up during the conduct of men’s domestic cricket, with a prominent problem being that a lot of games in north India, particularly during the Ranji Trophy, were washed out or heavily curtailed due to bad weather in December-January," a source was quoted as saying by the publication.&nbsp;

"Dravid, Laxman and Agarkar have been asked to give their suggestions to improve men’s domestic cricket," it added.&nbsp;

<h2>Focus on domestic cricket</h2>

Notably, in recent months, BCCI has given additional focus on strengthening the domestic cricket setup in the country. The senior national team players have been advised to go back to the Ranji Trophy or other domestic tournaments when they are not playing for the country.&nbsp;

The likes of Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer missed out on central contracts after they allegedly refused to play domestic cricket.&nbsp;

Former Indian captain and 1983 World Cup winner Sunil Gavaskar recently lauded the BCCI for announcing the incentive scheme for players playing 75 per cent of India's Tests both home and away.&nbsp;

Gavaskar added that a similar incentive scheme could be launched for domestic cricket which would automatically increase the participation and quality.&nbsp;

“That is a wonderful thing by the BCCI to reward those who would be playing but I would also request the BCCI to ensure that the feeder to the Test team, which is the Ranji Trophy, that is also looked after," said Gavaskar.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sunil-gavaskar-urges-bcci-to-implement-incentive-scheme-in-ranji-trophy-to-motivate-players-700886">Also read |&nbsp;Sunil Gavaskar urges BCCI to implement ‘incentive scheme’ in Ranji Trophy to motivate players&nbsp;</a>

“(If) the Ranji Trophy fees can be doubled or tripled, certainly there’ll be a lot more people playing the Ranji Trophy, (and a) lot less pull outs from the Ranji Trophy, because if the fees of playing a Ranji Trophy match is a good fee there will be less people pulling out for various reasons," he added.&nbsp;

The former top-order batter also urged BCCI to look into the growing concern of the short gap between Ranji games and even suggested Ranji to be the first of three tournaments to be played and not the last to ensure everyone is available and no one opts to skip it.

(With inputs from agencies)

BCCI has formed a three-member committee that includes Indian men's team head coach Rahul Dravid, National Cricket Academy chairman VVS Laxman and men’s chief selector Ajit Agarkar, to provide suggestions to improve and boost domestic cricket setup, according to a report in Times of India.

BCCI has formed a three-member committee that includes Indian men's team head coach Rahul Dravid, National Cricket Academy chairman VVS Laxman and men’s chief selector Ajit Agarkar, to provide suggestions to improve and boost domestic cricket setup, according to a report in Times of India. The decision was taken at BCCI's Apex Council meeting on Monday (Mar 18) where concerns were raised about the challenges domestic cricket was facing in the country. "There were a lot of issues that cropped up during the conduct of men’s domestic cricket, with a prominent problem being that a lot of games in north India, particularly during the Ranji Trophy, were washed out or heavily curtailed due to bad weather in December-January," a source was quoted as saying by the publication. "Dravid, Laxman and Agarkar have been asked to give their suggestions to improve men’s domestic cricket," it added. Focus on domestic cricket Notably, in recent months, BCCI has given additional focus on strengthening the domestic cricket setup in the country. The senior national team players have been advised to go back to the Ranji Trophy or other domestic tournaments when they are not playing for the country. The likes of Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer missed out on central contracts after they allegedly refused to play domestic cricket. Former Indian captain and 1983 World Cup winner Sunil Gavaskar recently lauded the BCCI for announcing the incentive scheme for players playing 75 per cent of India's Tests both home and away. Gavaskar added that a similar incentive scheme could be launched for domestic cricket which would automatically increase the participation and quality. “That is a wonderful thing by the BCCI to reward those who would be playing but I would also request the BCCI to ensure that the feeder to the Test team, which is the Ranji Trophy, that is also looked after," said Gavaskar. Also read | Sunil Gavaskar urges BCCI to implement ‘incentive scheme’ in Ranji Trophy to motivate players “(If) the Ranji Trophy fees can be doubled or tripled, certainly there’ll be a lot more people playing the Ranji Trophy, (and a) lot less pull outs from the Ranji Trophy, because if the fees of playing a Ranji Trophy match is a good fee there will be less people pulling out for various reasons," he added. The former top-order batter also urged BCCI to look into the growing concern of the short gap between Ranji games and even suggested Ranji to be the first of three tournaments to be played and not the last to ensure everyone is available and no one opts to skip it. (With inputs from agencies)

BCCI forms three-member committee of Rahul Dravid, VVS Laxman, Ajit Agarkar to improve domestic cricket

BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar was the man behind handing Test caps to Dhruv Jurel and Devdutt Padikkal against England series, despite resistance from captain Rohit Sharma and head coach Rahul Dravid.

BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar was the man behind handing Test caps to Dhruv Jurel and Devdutt Padikkal against England series, despite resistance from captain Rohit Sharma and head coach Rahul Dravid. According to a report in Hindustan Times citing BCCI sources, the former Indian pacer was the one-man army that suggested India bet on the youngsters to bail them out even when the Test series was on the line. "It was Agarkar who suggested Jurel's name. The team management wasn't too confident about him as he was still a rookie. Picking a youngster who hasn't had much red-ball exposure at the top level straightaway into the Indian side for an important series like England was always going to be a brave call but Agarkar had seen enough to vouch for the youngster," the source told the publication. With KL Rahul ruled out due to an injury and Virat Kohli already skipping the series due to personal reasons, the Indian batting lineup was bereft of experience. The management may have been tempted to go back to tried-and-tested players such as Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane but Agarkar put his foot down and reposed faith in the youth. Also read | Ranji Trophy 23-24: Mumbai clinch record-extending 42nd title, defeat Vidarbha by 169 runs "There was a discussion about Cheteshwar Pujara, who was scoring runs in Ranji Trophy. The batting line-up literally had no experience. But Agarkar stood firm on looking ahead with Padikkal's selection. He was present when he hit a fluent 150 in a Ranji Trophy and he believed that his height would come in handy against the inexperienced England spinners," the source added. Jurel was sensational with the gloves but also played a couple of incredible knocks, especially in Ranchi, which helped India win the series and complete a turnaround. Similarly, Padikkal came in the last match in Dharamshala and showed incredible composure. Dravid lauds Agarkar After the win, Dravid also lauded Agarkar for his foresight, saying he was grateful as his backroom staff did not have the opportunities to scout players on the domestic circuit. “I’d just like to give a big shoutout to Ajit [Agarkar, chairman of selectors] and his team as well. A lot of the youngsters that come in, honestly, as a coach and as a captain, we don’t actually get to see them because we don’t see as much domestic cricket as Ajit and his team of selectors do," said Dravid. Also read | 'We need to relook,' says India coach Rahul Dravid on domestic schedule "And they’ve pushed us and they’ve challenged us to pick some of these young players and they’ve picked the right ones and they’ve come out here and performed," he added. After the Test series, the focus now shifts to IPL but Agarkar will be already charting the perfect lineup for the upcoming T20 World Cup. Given the template set by him, it looks certain that youngsters would be preferred. (With inputs from agencies)

Ajit Agarkar put his foot down for inclusion of Jurel, Padikkal against England in Test series: Reports

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has invited applications for the post of one national selector for the senior men’s team on their official website. The published invite doesn’t indicate who would make way for the new selector in the selection committee. Former India seamer Ajit Agarkar (from the West Zone) heads the five-member selection team.

As per norms, the selection committee must consist of five selectors, one from each zone (North, South, East, West and Central), with the most experienced member (in terms of Test caps) getting to lead the selection panel. However, no selector can have a combined term of more than five years (junior and senior selection panels considered).

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/replacing-smith-at-number-four-is-tough-acknowledges-australias-cameron-green-ahead-of-west-indies-tests-680189">'Replacing Smith at number four is tough,' acknowledges Australia's Cameron Green ahead of West Indies Tests</a>

Meanwhile, following Chetan Sharma’s (North zone) departure as the chief selector last July, the BCCI brought in Ajit Agarkar as his replacement at the top, meaning the selection panel now has two selectors from the West Zone, including Salil Ankola, SS Das from the East, S Sharath from South and Subroto Banerjee from Central.

Going by this list, the BCCI might want to rope someone from the North zone, with one of the two men from the West (mainly Ankola) to make way for the incoming selector.

As&nbsp;per the BCCI website, all applicants have until 6 PM IST on January 25 to submit their candidature. The Indian Cricket Board will screen the candidates before zeroing in on the shortlisted ones for interview. The player should have played seven Tests (minimum) or 30 first-class matches or 10&nbsp;ODIs and 20 first-class games to be eligible for applying.

No final date for the interview has been announced yet.

<h2>Selection Committee named squad for England Tests</h2>

The current senior men’s selection committee named a 16-man squad for the first two Tests against England, starting with the first game in Hyderabad on January 25.&nbsp;

After the second Test in Vizag, the BCCI selectors will name the squad for the remaining three Tests.

ALSO WATCH -&nbsp;Nepal's star cricketer Sandeep Lamichhane jailed for eight years for rape

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Right after the England series, the IPL 2024 will get underway in March, with the T20 World Cup scheduled in the Caribbean and the USA in June as the next major assignment.&nbsp;

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has invited applications for the post of one national selector for the senior men’s team on their official website.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has invited applications for the post of one national selector for the senior men’s team on their official website. The published invite doesn’t indicate who would make way for the new selector in the selection committee. Former India seamer Ajit Agarkar (from the West Zone) heads the five-member selection team. As per norms, the selection committee must consist of five selectors, one from each zone (North, South, East, West and Central), with the most experienced member (in terms of Test caps) getting to lead the selection panel. However, no selector can have a combined term of more than five years (junior and senior selection panels considered). ALSO READ: 'Replacing Smith at number four is tough,' acknowledges Australia's Cameron Green ahead of West Indies Tests Meanwhile, following Chetan Sharma’s (North zone) departure as the chief selector last July, the BCCI brought in Ajit Agarkar as his replacement at the top, meaning the selection panel now has two selectors from the West Zone, including Salil Ankola, SS Das from the East, S Sharath from South and Subroto Banerjee from Central. Going by this list, the BCCI might want to rope someone from the North zone, with one of the two men from the West (mainly Ankola) to make way for the incoming selector. As per the BCCI website, all applicants have until 6 PM IST on January 25 to submit their candidature. The Indian Cricket Board will screen the candidates before zeroing in on the shortlisted ones for interview. The player should have played seven Tests (minimum) or 30 first-class matches or 10 ODIs and 20 first-class games to be eligible for applying. No final date for the interview has been announced yet. Selection Committee named squad for England Tests The current senior men’s selection committee named a 16-man squad for the first two Tests against England, starting with the first game in Hyderabad on January 25. After the second Test in Vizag, the BCCI selectors will name the squad for the remaining three Tests. ALSO WATCH - Nepal's star cricketer Sandeep Lamichhane jailed for eight years for rape × Right after the England series, the IPL 2024 will get underway in March, with the T20 World Cup scheduled in the Caribbean and the USA in June as the next major assignment.

BCCI invites applications for senior national men’s selector’s post

The BCCI top officials recently met India head coach Rahul Dravid, captain Rohit Sharma and the selection committee, headed by Ajit Agarkar, in a marathon meeting held in New Delhi. The meeting was to review the ODI World Cup at home -- where India ended as runners-up, losing to Australia in the final. The squads for the all-format tour of South Africa were also announced. Further, the roadmap going ahead was discussed, with the main focus on the next ICC event; i.e. the 2024 T20 World Cup in the West Indies and the USA.

Reportedly, a BCCI official present in the meeting narrated the entire conversation between Rohit and the others, as reported by Dainik Jagran. It is understood that Hitman asked for clarity regarding his T20I career. He asked the officials and selectors if they saw him playing in the forthcoming T20 WC in June.&nbsp;

"If you want to select me for the T20 World Cup then tell me now how to go about it," asked Rohit, according to the official, as reported by the Hindi daily.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eyes-on-mohammed-shamis-troubling-ankle-as-india-set-to-leave-for-south-africa-tour-666602">Eyes on Mohammed Shami’s troubling ankle as India set to leave for South Africa tour</a>

It is to be noted that the likes of Rohit and Virat Kohli have not featured in India's T20I setup post the national side's 2022 T20 WC semi-final loss to eventual winners England, in Adelaide. Since then, the two have focused on the longer formats due to the WTC 2023 final, held in June, and the ODI WC at home. In Rohit's absence, Hardik Pandya led the T20I side before Suryakumar Yadav took over in the latter's absence due to injury,&nbsp;during the recently-concluded Australia series at home (which Men in Blue won 4-1).&nbsp;

Since Hardik was never announced as the T20I captain, doors were always open for Rohit. It is believed that the BCCI officials, Dravid and the selection committee unanimously agreed that Rohit is the right candidate to lead India in next year's T20 WC. He would have been in India's squad for the SA T20Is, starting on Dec 10, but Hitman requested a break from the entire white-ball leg, including the three ODIs. Hence, he will only feature in the two Tests in the African nation.

Rohit attended the meeting via a Zoom call as he was in London enjoying some time off after the heartbreaking end to the ODI WC campaign. In India's upcoming tour of SA, Surya will lead the T20I side whereas KL Rahul has been appointed captain in the ODIs. Rohit will return, along with Kohli, for the two Tests.&nbsp;

The BCCI top officials recently met India head coach Rahul Dravid, captain Rohit Sharma and the selection committee, headed by Ajit Agarkar, in a marathon meeting held in New Delhi.

The BCCI top officials recently met India head coach Rahul Dravid, captain Rohit Sharma and the selection committee, headed by Ajit Agarkar, in a marathon meeting held in New Delhi. The meeting was to review the ODI World Cup at home -- where India ended as runners-up, losing to Australia in the final. The squads for the all-format tour of South Africa were also announced. Further, the roadmap going ahead was discussed, with the main focus on the next ICC event; i.e. the 2024 T20 World Cup in the West Indies and the USA. Reportedly, a BCCI official present in the meeting narrated the entire conversation between Rohit and the others, as reported by Dainik Jagran. It is understood that Hitman asked for clarity regarding his T20I career. He asked the officials and selectors if they saw him playing in the forthcoming T20 WC in June. "If you want to select me for the T20 World Cup then tell me now how to go about it," asked Rohit, according to the official, as reported by the Hindi daily. Also read: Eyes on Mohammed Shami’s troubling ankle as India set to leave for South Africa tour It is to be noted that the likes of Rohit and Virat Kohli have not featured in India's T20I setup post the national side's 2022 T20 WC semi-final loss to eventual winners England, in Adelaide. Since then, the two have focused on the longer formats due to the WTC 2023 final, held in June, and the ODI WC at home. In Rohit's absence, Hardik Pandya led the T20I side before Suryakumar Yadav took over in the latter's absence due to injury, during the recently-concluded Australia series at home (which Men in Blue won 4-1). Since Hardik was never announced as the T20I captain, doors were always open for Rohit. It is believed that the BCCI officials, Dravid and the selection committee unanimously agreed that Rohit is the right candidate to lead India in next year's T20 WC. He would have been in India's squad for the SA T20Is, starting on Dec 10, but Hitman requested a break from the entire white-ball leg, including the three ODIs. Hence, he will only feature in the two Tests in the African nation. Rohit attended the meeting via a Zoom call as he was in London enjoying some time off after the heartbreaking end to the ODI WC campaign. In India's upcoming tour of SA, Surya will lead the T20I side whereas KL Rahul has been appointed captain in the ODIs. Rohit will return, along with Kohli, for the two Tests.

'If you want to pick me for T20 WC 2024...: What Rohit told BCCI officials and selectors - Report

KL Rahul has joined the Indian Team in Colombo upon attaining a fitness clearance certificate from the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru. Rahul, who got picked in the 17-man squad for the ongoing Asia Cup 2023, suffered a niggle during the conditioning camp and got ruled out for the first two games. Participating in his first indoor session in the lead-up to the marquee clash against Pakistan, Rahul looked fine, shared chief selector Ajit Agarkar.

KL Rahul was part of the group, including Hardik Pandya, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, Shubman Gill and Shardul Thakur, that trained under the watchful eyes of coach Rahul Dravid and batting coach Vikram Rathore. Rahul started with a few throwdowns and batted in rotation with Iyer. Agarkar said Rahul didn't seem to be under any visible discomfort as he played some drives to perfection.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-2023-former-india-opener-lauds-mohammad-rizwan-before-india-clash-claims-he-is-a-warrior-633267">Asia Cup 2023: Former opener lauds Mohammad Rizwan before India clash, claims 'he is a warrior'</a>

Both Agarkar and Captain Rohit Sharma insisted on having KL Rahul back in the setup, as he provided stability with bat and gloves in hand. Though in his absence, Ishan Kishan filled in the space quite nicely, hitting a stunning 82 against Pakistan in the first group game. Now, with Rahul back in the side, the right-handed batter could return to the playing XI for the first time since March.

"KL is looking good. We feel this gives us the best balance to try and do well," chief selector Ajit Agarkar had said after Rahul was named in the World Cup squad earlier this week.&nbsp;

"With KL, he was part of the camp in Bengaluru. He looked really good there and has got over his niggle. He played a couple of games over the last two days. I think he kept for 50 overs and batted for around 50 overs too. So he looks good, and we're happy to have him."

Nuwan Seneviratne, the left-arm throwdown specialist, bowled to Rahul over the wicket before KL ran a few sprints in one of the nets. Rahul didn't keep wickets during any of the drills.

<h2>Gill prepares for Shaheen&nbsp;</h2>

Gill, India's highest-ranked batter in the ODIs, was found wanting against the left-arm bowling of Shaheen Afridi during the Group A game. Naseem Shah and Afridi troubled the right-hander as he got out for 10 off 32 balls.

The Indian youngster had a longish net session facing Seneviratne as he prepares for round two on Sunday, as both teams meet for the first time in Super Four.

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KL Rahul has joined the Indian Team in Colombo upon attaining a fitness clearance certificate from the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru. Rahul, who got picked in the 17-man squad for the ongoing Asia Cup 2023, suffered a niggle during the conditioning camp and got ruled out for the first two games.

KL Rahul has joined the Indian Team in Colombo upon attaining a fitness clearance certificate from the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru. Rahul, who got picked in the 17-man squad for the ongoing Asia Cup 2023, suffered a niggle during the conditioning camp and got ruled out for the first two games. Participating in his first indoor session in the lead-up to the marquee clash against Pakistan, Rahul looked fine, shared chief selector Ajit Agarkar. KL Rahul was part of the group, including Hardik Pandya, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, Shubman Gill and Shardul Thakur, that trained under the watchful eyes of coach Rahul Dravid and batting coach Vikram Rathore. Rahul started with a few throwdowns and batted in rotation with Iyer. Agarkar said Rahul didn't seem to be under any visible discomfort as he played some drives to perfection. ALSO READ: Asia Cup 2023: Former opener lauds Mohammad Rizwan before India clash, claims 'he is a warrior' Both Agarkar and Captain Rohit Sharma insisted on having KL Rahul back in the setup, as he provided stability with bat and gloves in hand. Though in his absence, Ishan Kishan filled in the space quite nicely, hitting a stunning 82 against Pakistan in the first group game. Now, with Rahul back in the side, the right-handed batter could return to the playing XI for the first time since March. "KL is looking good. We feel this gives us the best balance to try and do well," chief selector Ajit Agarkar had said after Rahul was named in the World Cup squad earlier this week. "With KL, he was part of the camp in Bengaluru. He looked really good there and has got over his niggle. He played a couple of games over the last two days. I think he kept for 50 overs and batted for around 50 overs too. So he looks good, and we're happy to have him." Nuwan Seneviratne, the left-arm throwdown specialist, bowled to Rahul over the wicket before KL ran a few sprints in one of the nets. Rahul didn't keep wickets during any of the drills. Gill prepares for Shaheen Gill, India's highest-ranked batter in the ODIs, was found wanting against the left-arm bowling of Shaheen Afridi during the Group A game. Naseem Shah and Afridi troubled the right-hander as he got out for 10 off 32 balls. The Indian youngster had a longish net session facing Seneviratne as he prepares for round two on Sunday, as both teams meet for the first time in Super Four. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Asia Cup: KL Rahul 'looking fit' upon joining Indian Team in Colombo ahead of Pakistan tie

Team India announced a 15-member squad for the upcoming ICC ODI World Cup, at home, starting on October 5. From India's current 18-man Asia Cup squad, including a reserve player, the trio of Prasidh Krishna, Sanju Samson and Tilak Varma have been dropped as the rest 15 made the cut in the final squad. It is to be noted that all the teams have until September 28 to make any changes to the squad. Thus, some late changes might take place.&nbsp;

After BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar named India's final 15 in a press conference along with captain Rohit Sharma in Sri Lanka, the duo took some questions from the reporters.

Sympathising with the dropped players, Rohit said, "There are no surprises and you can only get 15 in. Some of the guys will be disappointed. I have gone through it and I know how it feels. We have good all-round options and this is the best 15 we could get."

It is to be noted that Rohit played his first 50-over World Cup in 2015 as he was left out of MS Dhoni-led India's victorious squad from the 2011 edition. Back in 2011, when India co-hosted the mega event with Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, Hitman was overlooked as his competitors Virat Kohli and Suresh Raina got a look-in.

However, Rohit revamped in style and had a decent run in 2015 whereas came to his best in the 2019 edition, ending as the highest run-getter (648 runs with five centuries) in England and Wales. Thus, the 36-year-old has gone through a lot of ups and downs and will surely lend a supporting hand to the players who failed to make the cut.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-announces-indias-15-man-squad-for-2023-odi-world-cup-kl-rahul-makes-the-cut-632522">BCCI announces India's 15-man squad for 2023 ODI World Cup, KL Rahul makes the cut</a>

Rohit insisted that India are yet to find their right combination and added, "I have not thought about plans yet. The problem of plenty is a good problem to have. We have to see who is in form and who our opposition is. We need to see what the best possible combination could be. If someone misses out, then so be it. This keeps happening. You have to make tough calls for the team."

India will open their campaign versus Australia in Chennai&nbsp;on October 8 whereas the CWC 2023 opener will be held on October 5 with defending champions England taking on New Zealand in Ahmedabad.

At present, the Men in Blue are gearing up for the Super Four stage of the Asia Cup 2023 edition, where they will take on Pakistan on Sunday (September 10).&nbsp;

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Team India announced a 15-member squad for the upcoming ICC ODI World Cup, at home, starting on October 5. From India's current 18-man Asia Cup squad, including a reserve player, the trio of Prasidh Krishna, Sanju Samson and Tilak Varma have been dropped as the rest 15 made the cut in the final squad.

Team India announced a 15-member squad for the upcoming ICC ODI World Cup, at home, starting on October 5. From India's current 18-man Asia Cup squad, including a reserve player, the trio of Prasidh Krishna, Sanju Samson and Tilak Varma have been dropped as the rest 15 made the cut in the final squad. It is to be noted that all the teams have until September 28 to make any changes to the squad. Thus, some late changes might take place. After BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar named India's final 15 in a press conference along with captain Rohit Sharma in Sri Lanka, the duo took some questions from the reporters. Sympathising with the dropped players, Rohit said, "There are no surprises and you can only get 15 in. Some of the guys will be disappointed. I have gone through it and I know how it feels. We have good all-round options and this is the best 15 we could get." It is to be noted that Rohit played his first 50-over World Cup in 2015 as he was left out of MS Dhoni-led India's victorious squad from the 2011 edition. Back in 2011, when India co-hosted the mega event with Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, Hitman was overlooked as his competitors Virat Kohli and Suresh Raina got a look-in. However, Rohit revamped in style and had a decent run in 2015 whereas came to his best in the 2019 edition, ending as the highest run-getter (648 runs with five centuries) in England and Wales. Thus, the 36-year-old has gone through a lot of ups and downs and will surely lend a supporting hand to the players who failed to make the cut. Also read: BCCI announces India's 15-man squad for 2023 ODI World Cup, KL Rahul makes the cut Rohit insisted that India are yet to find their right combination and added, "I have not thought about plans yet. The problem of plenty is a good problem to have. We have to see who is in form and who our opposition is. We need to see what the best possible combination could be. If someone misses out, then so be it. This keeps happening. You have to make tough calls for the team." India will open their campaign versus Australia in Chennai on October 8 whereas the CWC 2023 opener will be held on October 5 with defending champions England taking on New Zealand in Ahmedabad. At present, the Men in Blue are gearing up for the Super Four stage of the Asia Cup 2023 edition, where they will take on Pakistan on Sunday (September 10). WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

I know how it feels: Rohit Sharma sympathises with dropped players after India name 15-man squad for CWC '23

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced their 15-man squad for the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 with KL Rahul making the cut. The batsman is expected to play wicketkeeper's role as well and chief selector Ajit Agarkar said that the player is looking good and "we're happy to have him."

"We had a couple of fitness issues that we had to look at, but all three [Rahul, Jasprit Bumrah and Shreyas Iyer], who had long-term injuries have come through," Agarkar said during the squad-announcement press conference. "KL is looking good. We feel this gives us the best balance to try and do well. With KL, he was part of the camp in Bangalore, he looked really good there, has got over his niggle. He played a couple of games over the last two days. I think he kept for 50 overs and batted for around 50 overs too, so he looks good and we're happy to have him."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-announces-indias-15-man-squad-for-2023-odi-world-cup-kl-rahul-makes-the-cut-632522">BCCI announces India's 15-man squad for 2023 ODI World Cup, KL Rahul makes the cut</a>

As for the bowlers, India's pace attack looks settled with Jasprit Bumrah leading the attack, joined by Mohammed Shami and Mohammed Siraj alongside Shardul Thakur and all-rounder Hardik Pandya. Among spinners, India decided to go with one specialist spinner in Kuldeep Yadav, with Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel being other two options.

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Here's the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> squad for the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2023 🙌<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC23?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC23</a> <a href="https://t.co/EX7Njg2Tcv">pic.twitter.com/EX7Njg2Tcv</a>
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Agarkar also spoke about selecting Jadeja and Patel as both of them have same skill set - bringing the ball into the left-handers.

"Clearly, there will be discussions given we have both Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel who spin the ball into left-handers," Agarkar said. "[But] both give us depth in batting. Kuldeep takes the ball away. In 50 overs cricket, perhaps you would ideally want an off-spinner but this gives us the best balance. Seamers tend to bowl a lot more in ODIs as compared to T20 cricket, and perhaps you're a little more under pressure if you don't have an offie, so we're happy with the guys we have."

While the deadline to announce the squad is September 5, teams can make changes to it until September 28 without needing approval from the ICC. The World Cup starts October 5 in India with final scheduled to be played on November 19.

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The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced their 15-man squad for the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 with KL Rahul making the cut. The batsman is expected to play wicketkeeper's role as well and chief selector Ajit Agarkar said that the player is looking good and "we're happy to have him.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced their 15-man squad for the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 with KL Rahul making the cut. The batsman is expected to play wicketkeeper's role as well and chief selector Ajit Agarkar said that the player is looking good and "we're happy to have him." "We had a couple of fitness issues that we had to look at, but all three [Rahul, Jasprit Bumrah and Shreyas Iyer], who had long-term injuries have come through," Agarkar said during the squad-announcement press conference. "KL is looking good. We feel this gives us the best balance to try and do well. With KL, he was part of the camp in Bangalore, he looked really good there, has got over his niggle. He played a couple of games over the last two days. I think he kept for 50 overs and batted for around 50 overs too, so he looks good and we're happy to have him." Also Read: BCCI announces India's 15-man squad for 2023 ODI World Cup, KL Rahul makes the cut As for the bowlers, India's pace attack looks settled with Jasprit Bumrah leading the attack, joined by Mohammed Shami and Mohammed Siraj alongside Shardul Thakur and all-rounder Hardik Pandya. Among spinners, India decided to go with one specialist spinner in Kuldeep Yadav, with Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel being other two options. Here's the #TeamIndia squad for the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2023 🙌#CWC23 pic.twitter.com/EX7Njg2Tcv — BCCI (@BCCI) September 5, 2023 × Agarkar also spoke about selecting Jadeja and Patel as both of them have same skill set - bringing the ball into the left-handers. "Clearly, there will be discussions given we have both Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel who spin the ball into left-handers," Agarkar said. "[But] both give us depth in batting. Kuldeep takes the ball away. In 50 overs cricket, perhaps you would ideally want an off-spinner but this gives us the best balance. Seamers tend to bowl a lot more in ODIs as compared to T20 cricket, and perhaps you're a little more under pressure if you don't have an offie, so we're happy with the guys we have." While the deadline to announce the squad is September 5, teams can make changes to it until September 28 without needing approval from the ICC. The World Cup starts October 5 in India with final scheduled to be played on November 19. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

CWC '23: BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar on selecting KL Rahul; having one specialist spinner in India squad

On Monday (August 21), the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced India's 17-man squad for the forthcoming Asia Cup. The continental tournament, which will be jointly hosted by Pakistan and Sri Lanka, kicks off on August 30 with India opening their campaign versus Pakistan on September 02 in Pallekele. The Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selectors named a strong squad, comprising KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer whereas Tilak Varma and Suryakumar Yadav were included in the final 17 with Sanju Samson being named the sole reserve player.

Although Rahul is part of the Asia Cup squad, chief selector Agarkar and captain Rohit Sharma, while addressing the media, made it clear that he has a niggle but there is nothing serious with regard to the keeper-batter's fitness. Now, former India chief selector Kris Srikkanth, part of the 1983 World Cup-winning side, has slammed the selection committee for going ahead with Rahul despite questions about his fitness.&nbsp;

<h2>'If a player is not fit during selection, you shouldn't pick him'</h2>

In a video on YouTube, Srikkanth said, "It's being said that KL Rahul has a niggle. If you have a niggle, don't pick him in the squad. If a player is not fit during selection, you shouldn't pick him. That was our policy. On the day of selection, if a player is not fit, don't select him. If you want to pick him for the World Cup, select him for the World Cup. That's a different issue. Now they are saying that he might play after a couple of matches and that's why we have picked Sanju Samson as a travelling reserve. What's all this."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/great-to-have-them-back-but-they-need-to-perform-gambhir-on-rahul-iyers-comeback-for-asia-cup-627996">Great to have them back but they need to perform: Gambhir on Rahul, Iyer's comeback for Asia Cup</a>

The former cricketer further opined, "You're playing Asia Cup which is also a premier tournament. We haven't qualified for the Asia Cup (final) over the last two editions. You have to qualify for the final and perform well. They are still unsure about the World Cup squad. You're confused. You need to have something called a selection policy. I am not trying to take any credit but let me tell you what we (our selection panel) used to have."

Srikkanth recalled his term as a chief selector and added, "We had this problem during a Test match. It was against a Test vs South Africa. VVS Laxman said he would play if he gets fit in time and urged us to keep him in the team. But on the day of the match, he was not fit. And then we thought of drafting Rohit Sharma in. But Rohit played football and injured himself. After that, Wriddhiman Saha made his debut. On that day, our selection panel decided not to be desperate. On the day of selection, if you're not fit, don't pick that player. You're making it look as though Indians don't have talent. You have created a situation like that."

With Rahul having a niggle, India have Ishan Kishan as a backup in the main squad whereas Samson will also be the travelling reserve. The seven-time Asia Cup champions are placed in Group A along with Pakistan and Nepal.&nbsp;

India squad for Asia Cup 2023

Rohit Sharma (C), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Tilak Varma, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammad Siraj, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammad Shami, Prasidh Krishna

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On Monday (August 21), the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced India's 17-man squad for the forthcoming Asia Cup. The continental tournament, which will be jointly hosted by Pakistan and Sri Lanka, kicks off on August 30 with India opening their campaign versus Pakistan on September 02 in Pallekele.

On Monday (August 21), the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced India's 17-man squad for the forthcoming Asia Cup. The continental tournament, which will be jointly hosted by Pakistan and Sri Lanka, kicks off on August 30 with India opening their campaign versus Pakistan on September 02 in Pallekele. The Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selectors named a strong squad, comprising KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer whereas Tilak Varma and Suryakumar Yadav were included in the final 17 with Sanju Samson being named the sole reserve player. Although Rahul is part of the Asia Cup squad, chief selector Agarkar and captain Rohit Sharma, while addressing the media, made it clear that he has a niggle but there is nothing serious with regard to the keeper-batter's fitness. Now, former India chief selector Kris Srikkanth, part of the 1983 World Cup-winning side, has slammed the selection committee for going ahead with Rahul despite questions about his fitness. 'If a player is not fit during selection, you shouldn't pick him' In a video on YouTube, Srikkanth said, "It's being said that KL Rahul has a niggle. If you have a niggle, don't pick him in the squad. If a player is not fit during selection, you shouldn't pick him. That was our policy. On the day of selection, if a player is not fit, don't select him. If you want to pick him for the World Cup, select him for the World Cup. That's a different issue. Now they are saying that he might play after a couple of matches and that's why we have picked Sanju Samson as a travelling reserve. What's all this." Also read: Great to have them back but they need to perform: Gambhir on Rahul, Iyer's comeback for Asia Cup The former cricketer further opined, "You're playing Asia Cup which is also a premier tournament. We haven't qualified for the Asia Cup (final) over the last two editions. You have to qualify for the final and perform well. They are still unsure about the World Cup squad. You're confused. You need to have something called a selection policy. I am not trying to take any credit but let me tell you what we (our selection panel) used to have." Srikkanth recalled his term as a chief selector and added, "We had this problem during a Test match. It was against a Test vs South Africa. VVS Laxman said he would play if he gets fit in time and urged us to keep him in the team. But on the day of the match, he was not fit. And then we thought of drafting Rohit Sharma in. But Rohit played football and injured himself. After that, Wriddhiman Saha made his debut. On that day, our selection panel decided not to be desperate. On the day of selection, if you're not fit, don't pick that player. You're making it look as though Indians don't have talent. You have created a situation like that." With Rahul having a niggle, India have Ishan Kishan as a backup in the main squad whereas Samson will also be the travelling reserve. The seven-time Asia Cup champions are placed in Group A along with Pakistan and Nepal. India squad for Asia Cup 2023 Rohit Sharma (C), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Tilak Varma, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammad Siraj, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammad Shami, Prasidh Krishna WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Kris Srikkanth lashes out at Agarkar-led BCCI selectors for including KL Rahul in India's Asia Cup squad

On Monday (August 21), India's 17-member squad for the Asia Cup was&nbsp;announced. While it saw the return of KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer, some big names were also missing, such as Yuzvendra Chahal, Umran Malik and&nbsp;Shikhar Dhawan. While not many would have considered Dhawan's name for the Asia Cup, with the left-hander not being in India's scheme of things since 2023, BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar opined on his future.

"Rohit is not a bad player, Shubman has had a phenomenal year. Ishan Kishan (is another one). Shikhar has been a terrific player for India. At the moment three guys are doing well and you can fit only 15. Unfortunately, someone has to fit. At the moment these are our preferred openers," Agarkar said while talking to the reporters after the Asia Cup squad announcement.

Shikhar Dhawan has been one of India's most prolific batters in the modern era. Dhawan formed a lethal opening pair with current captain Rohit over the years and remained India's consistent performer in ICC events (during the 2013 and 2017 Champions Trophy and 2015 ODI World Cup) but his stocks declined since 2021. And Shubman Gill's emergence, along with Ishan Kishan's attack-mode of play, led to his ouster in recent times. While he led India's second-stringed line-up in away tours (in New Zealand, Sri Lanka, etc.) and led in a few series at home as well, the 37-year-old has now fallen way behind in the pecking order.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/yuzvendra-chahal-reacts-after-being-snubbed-from-indias-asia-cup-squad-shares-cryptic-post-627613">Yuzvendra Chahal reacts after being snubbed from India's Asia Cup squad, shares cryptic post</a>

Dhawan has played 167 ODIs and 68 T20Is. The white-ball legend&nbsp;has amassed&nbsp;6,793 and&nbsp;1,759 runs in ODIs and T20Is, respectively with 17&nbsp;tons and 50 fifties&nbsp;in the shorter formats overall. He also has 2,315 runs in 34 Tests, with a best of 190.

Talking about Rohit-led India's Asia Cup campaign, they begin their run on September 2 versus arch-rivals Pakistan in Pallekele. The tournament kicks off in Multan, Pakistan on August 30. The upcoming edition will be jointly hosted by Sri Lanka and Pakistan.

India squad for Asia Cup 2023

Rohit Sharma (C), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Tilak Varma, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammad Siraj, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammad Shami, Prasidh Krishna

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On Monday (August 21), India's 17-member squad for the Asia Cup was announced. While it saw the return of KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer, some big names were also missing, such as Yuzvendra Chahal, Umran Malik and Shikhar Dhawan.

On Monday (August 21), India's 17-member squad for the Asia Cup was announced. While it saw the return of KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer, some big names were also missing, such as Yuzvendra Chahal, Umran Malik and Shikhar Dhawan. While not many would have considered Dhawan's name for the Asia Cup, with the left-hander not being in India's scheme of things since 2023, BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar opined on his future. "Rohit is not a bad player, Shubman has had a phenomenal year. Ishan Kishan (is another one). Shikhar has been a terrific player for India. At the moment three guys are doing well and you can fit only 15. Unfortunately, someone has to fit. At the moment these are our preferred openers," Agarkar said while talking to the reporters after the Asia Cup squad announcement. Shikhar Dhawan has been one of India's most prolific batters in the modern era. Dhawan formed a lethal opening pair with current captain Rohit over the years and remained India's consistent performer in ICC events (during the 2013 and 2017 Champions Trophy and 2015 ODI World Cup) but his stocks declined since 2021. And Shubman Gill's emergence, along with Ishan Kishan's attack-mode of play, led to his ouster in recent times. While he led India's second-stringed line-up in away tours (in New Zealand, Sri Lanka, etc.) and led in a few series at home as well, the 37-year-old has now fallen way behind in the pecking order. Also read: Yuzvendra Chahal reacts after being snubbed from India's Asia Cup squad, shares cryptic post Dhawan has played 167 ODIs and 68 T20Is. The white-ball legend has amassed 6,793 and 1,759 runs in ODIs and T20Is, respectively with 17 tons and 50 fifties in the shorter formats overall. He also has 2,315 runs in 34 Tests, with a best of 190. Talking about Rohit-led India's Asia Cup campaign, they begin their run on September 2 versus arch-rivals Pakistan in Pallekele. The tournament kicks off in Multan, Pakistan on August 30. The upcoming edition will be jointly hosted by Sri Lanka and Pakistan. India squad for Asia Cup 2023 Rohit Sharma (C), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Tilak Varma, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammad Siraj, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammad Shami, Prasidh Krishna WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar on Shikhar Dhawan's potential India comeback after Asia Cup snub

On Monday afternoon (August 21), the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) revealed India's 17-man squad for the forthcoming Asia Cup 2023 edition, to be jointly hosted by Pakistan and Sri Lanka. The Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selection committee picked a strong squad which sees the return of KL Rahul and&nbsp;Shreyas Iyer whereas pacers Jasprit Bumrah and Prasidh Krishna have also&nbsp;made an ODI comeback after a lengthy injury layoff. The duo marked their international return&nbsp;during the ongoing Ireland T20I series opener.

The squad comprises 17 players whereas Sanju Samson has been named as a backup. The main squad also includes Tilak Varma, who is yet to make his debut in the ODI format. Varma, after a stellar run in IPL 2023 for Mumbai Indians (MI), got his maiden international cap during the India-West Indies T20Is, in West Indies and Florida. The left-hander impressed with scores of 39, 51, 49*, 7*, 27.&nbsp;

Former India pacer Agarkar, who is spearheading the BCCI selection committee, opined on Varma's inclusion and said after the squad announcement, "In West Indies, we saw some real promise in terms of not just performances but the temperament."

He added, "And it gives us an opportunity to take him with the team, give him some more exposure; a left-hander again, looks very promising. So fortunately we can take 17 here, it'll be 15 at the World Cup. So when the time comes we'll take that decision, but at the moment it at least gives the coach and captain an opportunity to have him with the squad."

<aside>
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kl-rahul-shreyas-iyer-return-as-india-name-17-man-squad-for-asia-cup-2023-627483">KL Rahul, Shreyas Iyer return as India name 17-man squad for Asia Cup 2023</a>

Varma is currently part of the Bumrah-led Indian squad for the ongoing three T20Is versus Ireland in Dublin. So far, he hasn't managed to do anything significant in the two games but will aim for a big score in the final T20I with India already having an unassailable 2-0 lead.

Varma's inclusion has strengthened India's batting line-up. Now, the national side&nbsp;not only have another left-hander&nbsp;for the middle and lower order but the 20-year-old can also bowl a bit. It will be interesting to see if he makes his ODI debut in the upcoming continental tournament, where India kick off their campaign versus arch-rivals Pakistan on September 2 in Pallekele.

India are placed in Group A along with Babar Azam-led Men in Green and Nepal.

<h2>India's squad for Asia Cup 2023</h2>

Rohit Sharma (C), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Tilak Varma, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammad Siraj, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammad Shami, Prasidh Krishna

Reserves: Sanju Samson

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On Monday afternoon (August 21), the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) revealed India's 17-man squad for the forthcoming Asia Cup 2023 edition, to be jointly hosted by Pakistan and Sri Lanka.

On Monday afternoon (August 21), the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) revealed India's 17-man squad for the forthcoming Asia Cup 2023 edition, to be jointly hosted by Pakistan and Sri Lanka. The Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selection committee picked a strong squad which sees the return of KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer whereas pacers Jasprit Bumrah and Prasidh Krishna have also made an ODI comeback after a lengthy injury layoff. The duo marked their international return during the ongoing Ireland T20I series opener. The squad comprises 17 players whereas Sanju Samson has been named as a backup. The main squad also includes Tilak Varma, who is yet to make his debut in the ODI format. Varma, after a stellar run in IPL 2023 for Mumbai Indians (MI), got his maiden international cap during the India-West Indies T20Is, in West Indies and Florida. The left-hander impressed with scores of 39, 51, 49*, 7*, 27. Former India pacer Agarkar, who is spearheading the BCCI selection committee, opined on Varma's inclusion and said after the squad announcement, "In West Indies, we saw some real promise in terms of not just performances but the temperament." He added, "And it gives us an opportunity to take him with the team, give him some more exposure; a left-hander again, looks very promising. So fortunately we can take 17 here, it'll be 15 at the World Cup. So when the time comes we'll take that decision, but at the moment it at least gives the coach and captain an opportunity to have him with the squad." Also read: KL Rahul, Shreyas Iyer return as India name 17-man squad for Asia Cup 2023 Varma is currently part of the Bumrah-led Indian squad for the ongoing three T20Is versus Ireland in Dublin. So far, he hasn't managed to do anything significant in the two games but will aim for a big score in the final T20I with India already having an unassailable 2-0 lead. Varma's inclusion has strengthened India's batting line-up. Now, the national side not only have another left-hander for the middle and lower order but the 20-year-old can also bowl a bit. It will be interesting to see if he makes his ODI debut in the upcoming continental tournament, where India kick off their campaign versus arch-rivals Pakistan on September 2 in Pallekele. India are placed in Group A along with Babar Azam-led Men in Green and Nepal. India's squad for Asia Cup 2023 Rohit Sharma (C), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Tilak Varma, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammad Siraj, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammad Shami, Prasidh Krishna Reserves: Sanju Samson WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'A left-hander looks very promising': Ajit Agarkar on Tilak Varma's inclusion in India's Asia Cup squad

On Tuesday (July 4), former India pacer Ajit Agarkar was announced as the new BCCI chief selector. Agarkar succeeds&nbsp;Chetan Sharma after the latter resigned as a result of his revelations in a TV sting operation. Agarkar, who has represented India in 26 Tests, 191 ODIs and four T20Is, was unanimously recommended by BCCI's Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC), comprising Sulakshana Naik, Ashok Malhotra and Jatin Paranjape, for the top position. After his appointment, former Indian all-rounder Yuvraj Singh congratulated him and feels Agarkar is the right man for the job.

Yuvraj took to his official Twitter handle to congratulate his 'buddy' Agarkar for grabbing the top post and feels 'he will play an impactful role in shaping the future of Indian cricket'.

"Congratulations @imAagarkar on your new responsibility as the Chairman of the selection committee! I’m confident that you will play an impactful role in shaping the future of Indian cricket good luck buddy!" Yuvraj tweeted.

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Congratulations <a href="https://twitter.com/imAagarkar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imAagarkar</a> on your new responsibility as the Chairman of the selection committee! I’m confident that you will play an impactful role in shaping the future of Indian cricket 🇮🇳 good luck buddy!
— Yuvraj Singh (@YUVSTRONG12) <a href="https://twitter.com/YUVSTRONG12/status/1676291320367951872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 4, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/official-ajit-agarkar-succeeds-chetan-sharma-as-chief-selector-of-indian-mens-team-to-lead-five-member-team-611964">Official: Ajit Agarkar succeeds Chetan Sharma as chief selector of Indian men's team</a>

<h2>BCCI release on Ajit Agarkar's appointment</h2>

In a statement shared by the BCCI, Jay Shah -- the board's Secretary -- said, "The Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC), consisting of Ms Sulakshana Naik, Mr Ashok Malhotra, and Mr Jatin Paranjape, interviewed applicants for the position of one selector in the Men's Selection Committee. The three-member CAC has unanimously recommended Mr Ajit Agarkar for the said position."

"The former India all-rounder represented the country in 26 Tests, 191 ODIs, and four T20Is, in addition to playing 110 first-class, 270 List A, and 62 T20 matches. As a former fast bowler, he was part of India's victorious squad in the inaugural T20 World Cup held in South Africa in 2007. He still holds the record for the fastest half-century by an Indian batter in ODI, achieved with a 21-ball fifty against Zimbabwe in 2000. He also held the record for being the fastest to reach 50 ODI wickets for nearly a decade, accomplishing the milestone in just 23 matches.

Following his playing career, he was appointed as the Chief Selector for the senior Mumbai Team and undertook coaching responsibilities with the Delhi Capitals. The committee further recommended Mr Agarkar for the role of Chairperson of the Men’s Selection Committee based on seniority (total number of Test matches)," the statement read.

Agarkar's career spanned from 1998-2007. He was part of MS Dhoni-led India's 2007 T20 World Cup winning campaign. To date, the Mumbaikar&nbsp;holds the record for the fastest half-century by an India in ODIs (courtesy of his 21-ball fifty versus Zimbabwe in 2000). Moreover, Agarkar also held the record for being the quickest to 50 ODI scalps&nbsp;for nearly a decade, getting to the feat in mere 23 games.

Men’s Selection Committee:&nbsp;Ajit Agarkar (Chairperson), Shiv Sundar Das, Subroto Banerjee, Salil Ankola, Sridharan Sharath

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On Tuesday (July 4), former India pacer Ajit Agarkar was announced as the new BCCI chief selector. Agarkar succeeds Chetan Sharma after the latter resigned as a result of his revelations in a TV sting operation.

On Tuesday (July 4), former India pacer Ajit Agarkar was announced as the new BCCI chief selector. Agarkar succeeds Chetan Sharma after the latter resigned as a result of his revelations in a TV sting operation. Agarkar, who has represented India in 26 Tests, 191 ODIs and four T20Is, was unanimously recommended by BCCI's Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC), comprising Sulakshana Naik, Ashok Malhotra and Jatin Paranjape, for the top position. After his appointment, former Indian all-rounder Yuvraj Singh congratulated him and feels Agarkar is the right man for the job. Yuvraj took to his official Twitter handle to congratulate his 'buddy' Agarkar for grabbing the top post and feels 'he will play an impactful role in shaping the future of Indian cricket'. "Congratulations @imAagarkar on your new responsibility as the Chairman of the selection committee! I’m confident that you will play an impactful role in shaping the future of Indian cricket good luck buddy!" Yuvraj tweeted. Congratulations @imAagarkar on your new responsibility as the Chairman of the selection committee! I’m confident that you will play an impactful role in shaping the future of Indian cricket 🇮🇳 good luck buddy! — Yuvraj Singh (@YUVSTRONG12) July 4, 2023 × Also Read: Official: Ajit Agarkar succeeds Chetan Sharma as chief selector of Indian men's team BCCI release on Ajit Agarkar's appointment In a statement shared by the BCCI, Jay Shah -- the board's Secretary -- said, "The Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC), consisting of Ms Sulakshana Naik, Mr Ashok Malhotra, and Mr Jatin Paranjape, interviewed applicants for the position of one selector in the Men's Selection Committee. The three-member CAC has unanimously recommended Mr Ajit Agarkar for the said position." "The former India all-rounder represented the country in 26 Tests, 191 ODIs, and four T20Is, in addition to playing 110 first-class, 270 List A, and 62 T20 matches. As a former fast bowler, he was part of India's victorious squad in the inaugural T20 World Cup held in South Africa in 2007. He still holds the record for the fastest half-century by an Indian batter in ODI, achieved with a 21-ball fifty against Zimbabwe in 2000. He also held the record for being the fastest to reach 50 ODI wickets for nearly a decade, accomplishing the milestone in just 23 matches. Following his playing career, he was appointed as the Chief Selector for the senior Mumbai Team and undertook coaching responsibilities with the Delhi Capitals. The committee further recommended Mr Agarkar for the role of Chairperson of the Men’s Selection Committee based on seniority (total number of Test matches)," the statement read. Agarkar's career spanned from 1998-2007. He was part of MS Dhoni-led India's 2007 T20 World Cup winning campaign. To date, the Mumbaikar holds the record for the fastest half-century by an India in ODIs (courtesy of his 21-ball fifty versus Zimbabwe in 2000). Moreover, Agarkar also held the record for being the quickest to 50 ODI scalps for nearly a decade, getting to the feat in mere 23 games. Men’s Selection Committee: Ajit Agarkar (Chairperson), Shiv Sundar Das, Subroto Banerjee, Salil Ankola, Sridharan Sharath WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Yuvraj Singh reacts as Ajit Agarkar becomes BCCI chief selector, backs him to shape Indian cricket's future

Former India player Ajit Agarkar has officially been appointed as the chairman&nbsp;of the senior men's selection committee&nbsp;by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Tuesday, July 4. Agarkar, a veteran of the game, will succeed former boss Chetan Sharma, who resigned from his post after controversial remarks in February. Agarkar will now head the team of five members consisting of Shiv Sunder Das, Salil Ankola, Subroto Banerjee, and S Sharath.

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<h2>End of the saga</h2>

Agarkar was the leading name to replace Sharma, as several former India players interested in the post were not eligible, while a few pulled out of the race. Hailing from Mumbai, Agarkar was part of the Indian team that won the inaugural T20 World Cup in South Africa in 2007. He also holds the unique distinction of scoring a hundred at Lord’s, which his best friend Sachin Tendulkar did not achieve. He will take office on an immediate basis with huge duties on his shoulders.&nbsp;

The Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC), consisting of Sulakshana Naik, Ashok Malhotra, and Jatin Paranjape, interviewed applicants for the position of one selector in the Men's Selection Committee. The three-member CAC has unanimously recommended Agarkar for the position.

Agarkar, 45, represented India on the international stage when he emerged from the ranks of the Mumbai Ranji team where he first caught the eyes of the world. He represented the country in 26 Tests, 191 ODIs, and four T20Is, in addition to playing 110 first-class, 270 List A, and 62 T20 matches. He still holds the record for the fastest half-century by an Indian batter in ODI, achieved with a 21-ball fifty against Zimbabwe in 2000. He also held the record for being the fastest to reach 50 ODI wickets for nearly a decade, accomplishing the milestone in just 23 matches.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/explained-how-ashes-has-always-been-too-political-as-uk-oz-pms-get-involved-in-jonny-bairstow-row-611837">Explained | How Ashes has always been too political as UK, Oz PMs get involved in Jonny Bairstow row</a>

<h2>Big shoes to fill</h2>

The former bowling all-rounder was recently released by the Delhi Capitals (DC) from the Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise as first-team coach after a poor season. His departure was the first hint of him succeeding Chetan Sharma as he was the front-runner for the post.

He will face a big task in a little over two months as he will be the man in charge of picking the 15-member squad for the 2023 ODI World Cup. If he completes the term, he will also be the man at the helm to pick the team for the 2024 T20 World Cup in West Indies and USA. His selection committee team will also pick the squad for next month’s Asia Cup which will be played in Pakistan and Sri Lanka.

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Former India player Ajit Agarkar has officially been appointed as the chairman of the senior men's selection committee by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Tuesday, July 4.

Former India player Ajit Agarkar has officially been appointed as the chairman of the senior men's selection committee by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Tuesday, July 4. Agarkar, a veteran of the game, will succeed former boss Chetan Sharma, who resigned from his post after controversial remarks in February. Agarkar will now head the team of five members consisting of Shiv Sunder Das, Salil Ankola, Subroto Banerjee, and S Sharath. 🚨 NEWS 🚨: Ajit Agarkar appointed Chairman of Senior Men’s Selection Committee. Details 🔽https://t.co/paprb6eyJC — BCCI (@BCCI) July 4, 2023 × End of the saga Agarkar was the leading name to replace Sharma, as several former India players interested in the post were not eligible, while a few pulled out of the race. Hailing from Mumbai, Agarkar was part of the Indian team that won the inaugural T20 World Cup in South Africa in 2007. He also holds the unique distinction of scoring a hundred at Lord’s, which his best friend Sachin Tendulkar did not achieve. He will take office on an immediate basis with huge duties on his shoulders. The Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC), consisting of Sulakshana Naik, Ashok Malhotra, and Jatin Paranjape, interviewed applicants for the position of one selector in the Men's Selection Committee. The three-member CAC has unanimously recommended Agarkar for the position. Agarkar, 45, represented India on the international stage when he emerged from the ranks of the Mumbai Ranji team where he first caught the eyes of the world. He represented the country in 26 Tests, 191 ODIs, and four T20Is, in addition to playing 110 first-class, 270 List A, and 62 T20 matches. He still holds the record for the fastest half-century by an Indian batter in ODI, achieved with a 21-ball fifty against Zimbabwe in 2000. He also held the record for being the fastest to reach 50 ODI wickets for nearly a decade, accomplishing the milestone in just 23 matches. ALSO READ | Explained | How Ashes has always been too political as UK, Oz PMs get involved in Jonny Bairstow row Big shoes to fill The former bowling all-rounder was recently released by the Delhi Capitals (DC) from the Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise as first-team coach after a poor season. His departure was the first hint of him succeeding Chetan Sharma as he was the front-runner for the post. He will face a big task in a little over two months as he will be the man in charge of picking the 15-member squad for the 2023 ODI World Cup. If he completes the term, he will also be the man at the helm to pick the team for the 2024 T20 World Cup in West Indies and USA. His selection committee team will also pick the squad for next month’s Asia Cup which will be played in Pakistan and Sri Lanka. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Official: Ajit Agarkar succeeds Chetan Sharma as chief selector of Indian men's team

The wait for the men's chief selector seems to be over as BCCI is likely to appoint former India seamer Ajit Agarkar as the new head of the selection committee, the announcement for which will be made public in July, per the latest reports.

The wait for the men's chief selector seems to be over as BCCI is likely to appoint former India seamer Ajit Agarkar as the new head of the selection committee, the announcement for which will be made public in July, per the latest reports. After Chetan Sharma’s unceremonious exit from the post in February following a sting operation on him, ex-opener Shiv Sundar Das was leading the panel on an interim basis. Reports suggest the last date of application for the post of BCCI’s men’s chief selector is June 30, and the interviews for the same will be conducted the following day on 1 July, with Agarkar leading the race to take up the job. “The CAC has the mandate to pick a selector who can stand up to the high-profile team management in case there are differences,” a BCCI official told PTI on conditions of anonymity. ALSO READ: Ashes 2023, Lord's Test: 'Bruised' David Warner admits finding rhythm following handy knock on day one Having appointed lesser-known names for the post of the men’s chief selector in the previous two terms, the board is keen on bringing an experienced and well-known face this time. Following India’s exit from the knockout stage in the World T20 edition and with an aim to pick the right squad for the home World Cup later this year, BCCI wants someone with vast experience on his back to handle all of this. While the former India seamer had earlier interviewed for the post in the past, he never got picked, and this time, with him likely to leave the Delhi Capitals coaching staff following another shallow season in IPL, Agarkar looks like the right man for the job. Announcement of women’s team coach on June 30 Not only will the BCCI interview candidates for the post of men’s chief selector, but the board also sit across the table with applicants for selecting the coach of the women’s team, the announcement of which is likely on Friday, June 30. As per reports, the frontrunners include Amol Muzumdar and Tushar Arothe. While Arothe had coached the Indian Team previously, Muzumdar, who had a short stint with Rajasthan Royals in the coaching department lately, will also be present for the interview despite reports of him becoming Baroda’s head coach. In December last year, former India spinner Ramesh Powar was removed as the women’s team coach for the second time, and since then Harmanpreet Kaur-led team has been without a permanent coach. Meanwhile, batting coach Hrishikesh Kanitkar, was asked to fill the shoes on a temporary basis during the T20 World Cup earlier. “The interviews will be conducted on Friday,” a BCCI official told PTI. While the Indian women’s cricket team is set to tour Bangladesh next month, the men’s team is slated to travel to the Island nation for two Tests, three ODIs and five ODIs, starting July 12. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

BCCI likely to appoint Ajit Agarkar as new chief selector, women's team coach announcement June 30

Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Delhi Capitals (DC) parted ways with first-team coaching staff Shane Watson and Ajit Agarkar on Thursday, June 29 after suffering a turbulent campaign. DC finished ninth in the IPL 2023 standings and were bottom of the league for the first half of the season. While Agarkar and Watson have departed, there was no word on the future of Ricky Ponting, and Sourav Ganguly who are also associated with the team.

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Thank You, Ajit and Watto, for your contributions. All the very best for your future endeavours 🙌<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YehHaiNayiDilli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#YehHaiNayiDilli</a> <a href="https://t.co/n25thJeB5B">pic.twitter.com/n25thJeB5B</a>
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<h2>Delhi waves&nbsp;goodbye to Agarkar, Watson</h2>

A social media post was put by the DC team thanking the duo of Watson and Agrakar.&nbsp;“You’ll always have a place to call home here. Thank You, Ajit and Watto, for your contributions. All the very best for your future endeavours,” the post read.

DC haven’t enjoyed a great deal of success in recent times and have failed to build on the few successes, having finished runners-up in the IPL 2020. The team lost five consecutive matches at the start of the season which cost them a place in the playoffs despite bringing their campaign back on route.

"Obviously, nothing will happen mid-season but the poor result for two successive seasons will have its share of repercussions when JSW and GMR, the two co-owners sit back and take stock of the season," an IPL source tracking the franchise told PTI.

"So you will certainly not have this jumbo coaching staff next season for sure. There will be a few heads that might roll," the source added.

In the 2023 campaign, DC missed the services of skipper Rishabh Pant, who suffered serious injuries in a car accident in December 2022. In Pant’s absence, legendary Australian cricketer David Warner led the Delhi franchise.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kylian-mbappe-and-france-teammates-raise-concern-after-police-kills-teenager-during-traffic-check-610052">Kylian Mbappe and France teammates raise concern after police kills teenager during traffic check</a>

<h2>Agarkar linked with vacant selectors post</h2>

However,&nbsp;not all has gone wrong for Agarkar. The former Mumbai bowling all-rounder could soon apply his trade as the head of the selection committee. Few reports on Thursday, June 29 have linked Agarkar with the vacant post as he is one of the ideal candidates to succeed Chetan Sharma. The former India bowler resigned from his post as the selector at the start of the year and since then no permanent appointment has been made.

If Agarkar does become the head of the selection committee, he will face a stern challenge to put up a team capable of winning the World Cup in October and November.

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Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Delhi Capitals (DC) parted ways with first-team coaching staff Shane Watson and Ajit Agarkar on Thursday, June 29 after suffering a turbulent campaign.

Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Delhi Capitals (DC) parted ways with first-team coaching staff Shane Watson and Ajit Agarkar on Thursday, June 29 after suffering a turbulent campaign. DC finished ninth in the IPL 2023 standings and were bottom of the league for the first half of the season. While Agarkar and Watson have departed, there was no word on the future of Ricky Ponting, and Sourav Ganguly who are also associated with the team. You’ll always have a place to call home here 💙 Thank You, Ajit and Watto, for your contributions. All the very best for your future endeavours 🙌#YehHaiNayiDilli pic.twitter.com/n25thJeB5B — Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) June 29, 2023 × Delhi waves goodbye to Agarkar, Watson A social media post was put by the DC team thanking the duo of Watson and Agrakar. “You’ll always have a place to call home here. Thank You, Ajit and Watto, for your contributions. All the very best for your future endeavours,” the post read. DC haven’t enjoyed a great deal of success in recent times and have failed to build on the few successes, having finished runners-up in the IPL 2020. The team lost five consecutive matches at the start of the season which cost them a place in the playoffs despite bringing their campaign back on route. "Obviously, nothing will happen mid-season but the poor result for two successive seasons will have its share of repercussions when JSW and GMR, the two co-owners sit back and take stock of the season," an IPL source tracking the franchise told PTI. "So you will certainly not have this jumbo coaching staff next season for sure. There will be a few heads that might roll," the source added. In the 2023 campaign, DC missed the services of skipper Rishabh Pant, who suffered serious injuries in a car accident in December 2022. In Pant’s absence, legendary Australian cricketer David Warner led the Delhi franchise. ALSO READ | Kylian Mbappe and France teammates raise concern after police kills teenager during traffic check Agarkar linked with vacant selectors post However, not all has gone wrong for Agarkar. The former Mumbai bowling all-rounder could soon apply his trade as the head of the selection committee. Few reports on Thursday, June 29 have linked Agarkar with the vacant post as he is one of the ideal candidates to succeed Chetan Sharma. The former India bowler resigned from his post as the selector at the start of the year and since then no permanent appointment has been made. If Agarkar does become the head of the selection committee, he will face a stern challenge to put up a team capable of winning the World Cup in October and November. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Delhi Capitals part ways with Shane Watson, Ajit Agarkar after poor show in IPL 2023

India’s newest young pace bowling sensation Umran Malik made his ODI debut on Friday against New Zealand at Eden Park in Auckland, returning with the figures of 2-66 in ten overs. Although he did go for a few runs in India’s seven-wicket loss, Umran still seemed to have impressed everyone with his raw pace and wicket-taking ability. One of them is a former India pacer, Ajit Agarkar.

While speaking on the post-match discussion on Prime Video, Agarkar praised Umran saying there are many bowlers in India who can bowl good line and length but there aren’t many who can do that with a 150 km/ph delivery, and that is where he (Umran Malik) comes into the picture. Agarkar said bowling at that speed is no less than a special ability, and that Malik needs to be nurtured well so that he gets the confidence to do well consistently at this stage.

"There are lots of bowlers who bowl line and length, there are very few who can get it up to 150 and that's a special ability to have. So you have got to nurture it and you have got to give him that confidence," Agarkar said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tom-lathams-145-kane-williamsons-94-helps-nz-beat-india-by-seven-wickets-to-win-1st-odi-537393">Tom Latham's 145*, Kane Williamson's 94* help NZ beat India by seven wickets to win 1st ODI</a>

Agarkar was also of the opinion that despite going a tad expensive on his debut, Malik still had an excellent day.

"When someone is as raw as he is, I think he had a brilliant day. He gave India the control; he gave India the wickets which kept India in the game. I know Shreyas (Iyer) said that they thought they were above par but with the dimensions of this ground and if there is a set batter, it becomes very difficult to stop."

During the first ODI, Malik picked up two wickets of opener Devon Conway and Daryl Mitchell,&nbsp;while Agarkar reckons with those scalps, he brought India back into the game.

"He gave India the wickets that they needed - Conway and then Mitchell. So he got India back in the game, bowled exceptionally well. We don't expect a young bowler, who is a tearaway, to come and bowl every ball on the right line and lengths. That is what gives them the X-factor."

India will now face New Zealand in the second ODI on November 27th.

India’s newest young pace bowling sensation Umran Malik made his ODI debut on Friday against New Zealand at Eden Park in Auckland, returning with the figures of 2-66 in ten overs.

India’s newest young pace bowling sensation Umran Malik made his ODI debut on Friday against New Zealand at Eden Park in Auckland, returning with the figures of 2-66 in ten overs. Although he did go for a few runs in India’s seven-wicket loss, Umran still seemed to have impressed everyone with his raw pace and wicket-taking ability. One of them is a former India pacer, Ajit Agarkar. While speaking on the post-match discussion on Prime Video, Agarkar praised Umran saying there are many bowlers in India who can bowl good line and length but there aren’t many who can do that with a 150 km/ph delivery, and that is where he (Umran Malik) comes into the picture. Agarkar said bowling at that speed is no less than a special ability, and that Malik needs to be nurtured well so that he gets the confidence to do well consistently at this stage. "There are lots of bowlers who bowl line and length, there are very few who can get it up to 150 and that's a special ability to have. So you have got to nurture it and you have got to give him that confidence," Agarkar said. ALSO READ: Tom Latham's 145*, Kane Williamson's 94* help NZ beat India by seven wickets to win 1st ODI Agarkar was also of the opinion that despite going a tad expensive on his debut, Malik still had an excellent day. "When someone is as raw as he is, I think he had a brilliant day. He gave India the control; he gave India the wickets which kept India in the game. I know Shreyas (Iyer) said that they thought they were above par but with the dimensions of this ground and if there is a set batter, it becomes very difficult to stop." During the first ODI, Malik picked up two wickets of opener Devon Conway and Daryl Mitchell, while Agarkar reckons with those scalps, he brought India back into the game. "He gave India the wickets that they needed - Conway and then Mitchell. So he got India back in the game, bowled exceptionally well. We don't expect a young bowler, who is a tearaway, to come and bowl every ball on the right line and lengths. That is what gives them the X-factor." India will now face New Zealand in the second ODI on November 27th.

NZ vs IND - ‘Umran Malik has a special ability to...’ Ajit Agarkar lauds Jammu speedster on ODI debut

Shane Watson remains one of the best all-rounders to have graced the gentlemen's game. He represented Australia at the international level for 14 years, playing several memorable knocks, chipping in with key wickets and taking some breathtaking catches for the Men in Yellow.&nbsp;

Despite him retiring from international cricket after the 2016 T20 World Cup, Watson continued to play in franchise leagues and did well in the IPL (scoring over 500 runs for Chennai Super Kings in IPL 2018). Currently, Watto is a part of the Delhi Capitals (DC) franchise in IPL 2022. Recently, the 40-year-old lavished praise on&nbsp;ex-Indian fast-bowling&nbsp;all-rounder&nbsp;-- also part of Delhi camp -- Ajit Agarkar and narrated how he riled up former Aussie skipper Steve Waugh.

"Ajit Agarkar is just an awesome guy. I have played a little bit against him, more so towards the back end of his career. Javagal Srinath bowled good pace but Ajit… I remember him coming into the Australia summer - I think it was 1999, Brett Lee's debut year - he came and bowled at great pace. He stirred up the Aussies a lot, in a big way. I remember him trying to bounce out Steve Waugh and Steve Waugh wasn't that pleased," Watson said on the Delhi Capitals podcast.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/srh-star-rahul-tripathi-has-the-potential-to-go-all-the-way-in-international-cricket-says-matthew-hayden-480038">SRH star Rahul Tripathi has the potential to go all the way in international cricket, says Matthew Hayden</a>

"But the knowledge that he has got… he's a really nice person and knows how to connect with people really well. Obviously, he's got great respect within the group as well for what he's achieved as a cricketer. But he is just a generally good person who cares for people so his ability to connect and talk about things and help people out is brilliant," Watson further added.

Agarkar represented India in 26 Tests, 191 ODIs and only a handful of T20Is (4). He ended with 349 international wickets along with three half-centuries and a Test hundred at the Lord's. Currently, he is working closely with the DC bowlers, a part of the franchise's coaching staff,&nbsp;in IPL 15 season in India.

Shane Watson remains one of the best all-rounders to have graced the gentlemen's game. He represented Australia at the international level for 14 years, playing several memorable knocks, chipping in with key wickets and taking some breathtaking catches for the Men in Yellow.

Shane Watson remains one of the best all-rounders to have graced the gentlemen's game. He represented Australia at the international level for 14 years, playing several memorable knocks, chipping in with key wickets and taking some breathtaking catches for the Men in Yellow. Despite him retiring from international cricket after the 2016 T20 World Cup, Watson continued to play in franchise leagues and did well in the IPL (scoring over 500 runs for Chennai Super Kings in IPL 2018). Currently, Watto is a part of the Delhi Capitals (DC) franchise in IPL 2022. Recently, the 40-year-old lavished praise on ex-Indian fast-bowling all-rounder -- also part of Delhi camp -- Ajit Agarkar and narrated how he riled up former Aussie skipper Steve Waugh. "Ajit Agarkar is just an awesome guy. I have played a little bit against him, more so towards the back end of his career. Javagal Srinath bowled good pace but Ajit… I remember him coming into the Australia summer - I think it was 1999, Brett Lee's debut year - he came and bowled at great pace. He stirred up the Aussies a lot, in a big way. I remember him trying to bounce out Steve Waugh and Steve Waugh wasn't that pleased," Watson said on the Delhi Capitals podcast. ALSO READ | SRH star Rahul Tripathi has the potential to go all the way in international cricket, says Matthew Hayden "But the knowledge that he has got… he's a really nice person and knows how to connect with people really well. Obviously, he's got great respect within the group as well for what he's achieved as a cricketer. But he is just a generally good person who cares for people so his ability to connect and talk about things and help people out is brilliant," Watson further added. Agarkar represented India in 26 Tests, 191 ODIs and only a handful of T20Is (4). He ended with 349 international wickets along with three half-centuries and a Test hundred at the Lord's. Currently, he is working closely with the DC bowlers, a part of the franchise's coaching staff, in IPL 15 season in India.

'He stirred up the Aussies a lot' - Shane Watson lavishes huge praise on ex-India pacer

Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Delhi Capitals on Wednesday announced the appointment of former India pacer Ajit Agarkar as the team's new assistant coach.

"I am very excited to be part of Delhi Capitals squad for this season. I have been lucky enough to be a player and to be returning in a different capacity," Agarkar said in a Delhi Capitals release.

"It's obviously very exciting. We have a young and terrific squad led by one of the most talented players in the world - Rishabh Pant. And the coach Ricky Ponting has been a legend of the game. Looking forward to working with them, can't wait to get started and creating some special memories," he added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-has-got-ice-running-through-his-veins-virat-kohli-is-a-superhuman-shane-watson-455678">MS Dhoni has got ice running through his veins, Virat Kohli is a superhuman: Shane Watson</a>

The 44-year-old, with 288 ODI and 58 Test wickets to his name, has represented Kolkata Knight Riders and Delhi Daredevils in the IPL.

Agarkar joins the Delhi Capitals coaching staff of Ricky Ponting (Head Coach), Pravin Amre (Assistant Coach) and James Hopes (Bowling Coach).

Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Delhi Capitals on Wednesday announced the appointment of former India pacer Ajit Agarkar as the team's new assistant coach.

Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Delhi Capitals on Wednesday announced the appointment of former India pacer Ajit Agarkar as the team's new assistant coach. "I am very excited to be part of Delhi Capitals squad for this season. I have been lucky enough to be a player and to be returning in a different capacity," Agarkar said in a Delhi Capitals release. "It's obviously very exciting. We have a young and terrific squad led by one of the most talented players in the world - Rishabh Pant. And the coach Ricky Ponting has been a legend of the game. Looking forward to working with them, can't wait to get started and creating some special memories," he added. ALSO READ: MS Dhoni has got ice running through his veins, Virat Kohli is a superhuman: Shane Watson The 44-year-old, with 288 ODI and 58 Test wickets to his name, has represented Kolkata Knight Riders and Delhi Daredevils in the IPL. Agarkar joins the Delhi Capitals coaching staff of Ricky Ponting (Head Coach), Pravin Amre (Assistant Coach) and James Hopes (Bowling Coach).

IPL 2022: Former India pacer Ajit Agarkar joins Delhi Capitals as assistant coach

A senior Indian player reportedly wants former India pacer Ajit Agarkar to replacer Paras Paras Mhambrey as the current bowling coach of the Indian men's cricket team. The Rohit Sharma-led Indian team defeated West Indies 3-0 in the recently-concluded T20I series to complete a whitewash against Kieron Pollard's men.&nbsp;

It has been a great start to his captaincy tenure for Rohit, who has led the team to back-to-back T20I series wins at home. India also completed a 3-0 whitewash against West Indies in the ODIs which were preceded by the T20Is. The Indian team is currently in a transition phase with Rohit and head coach Rahul Dravid at the helm.

While a number of new players are trying to cement their respective spots in the Indian team with their performances, a senior figure in the side has requested a change in the backroom staff as well. As per a report in the Times of India, a senior player of the Indian team is 'keen' on Agarkar taking over as the bowling coach of the national team.

Former India seamer&nbsp;Mhambrey, who was appointed along with head coach Dravid and fielding coach T Dilip last year, is currently the bowling coach of the side.&nbsp;

“The senior player, who plays a vital role in decision-making in Indian cricket now, wants an experienced hand like Agarkar guiding the bowlers till the 2023 ODI World Cup. Mhambrey is a good bowling coach and can look after budding bowlers at India A, India Under-19 and at pacers the National Cricket Academy,” a source was quoted as saying by the Times of India.

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Agarkar, who represented India from 1998 to 2007, played a total of 28 Tests, 191 ODIs and 4 T20Is in his international career. The fast-bowling all-rounder picked up a total of 349 wickets across formats. Agarkar is the third-highest wicket-taker for India in ODIs with 288 scalps.

He was one of the favourites to become the chairman of India's selection committee last year but was pipped in the race by current chief selector Chetan Sharma.

&nbsp;

A senior Indian player reportedly wants former India pacer Ajit Agarkar to replacer Paras Paras Mhambrey as the current bowling coach of the Indian men's cricket team.

A senior Indian player reportedly wants former India pacer Ajit Agarkar to replacer Paras Paras Mhambrey as the current bowling coach of the Indian men's cricket team. The Rohit Sharma-led Indian team defeated West Indies 3-0 in the recently-concluded T20I series to complete a whitewash against Kieron Pollard's men. It has been a great start to his captaincy tenure for Rohit, who has led the team to back-to-back T20I series wins at home. India also completed a 3-0 whitewash against West Indies in the ODIs which were preceded by the T20Is. The Indian team is currently in a transition phase with Rohit and head coach Rahul Dravid at the helm. While a number of new players are trying to cement their respective spots in the Indian team with their performances, a senior figure in the side has requested a change in the backroom staff as well. As per a report in the Times of India, a senior player of the Indian team is 'keen' on Agarkar taking over as the bowling coach of the national team. Former India seamer Mhambrey, who was appointed along with head coach Dravid and fielding coach T Dilip last year, is currently the bowling coach of the side. “The senior player, who plays a vital role in decision-making in Indian cricket now, wants an experienced hand like Agarkar guiding the bowlers till the 2023 ODI World Cup. Mhambrey is a good bowling coach and can look after budding bowlers at India A, India Under-19 and at pacers the National Cricket Academy,” a source was quoted as saying by the Times of India. Also Read: After exposing him on Twitter, Saha unwilling to reveal name of journalist who threatened him Agarkar, who represented India from 1998 to 2007, played a total of 28 Tests, 191 ODIs and 4 T20Is in his international career. The fast-bowling all-rounder picked up a total of 349 wickets across formats. Agarkar is the third-highest wicket-taker for India in ODIs with 288 scalps. He was one of the favourites to become the chairman of India's selection committee last year but was pipped in the race by current chief selector Chetan Sharma.

Senior player wants Ajit Agarkar to replace Paras Mhambrey as bowling coach of Indian team - Report

Former India pacer Ajit Agarkar feels ex-skipper Virat Kohli's form is crucial for the side as whenever the batter has scored runs, the team has ended up winning the game.

Kohli has not scored a century in two years with his last ton in international cricket coming way back in 2019 against Bangladesh. In the ODI series against West Indies, Kohli recorded scores of 8, 18, and 0.

Ahead of the India-West Indies T20I series, Agarkar spoke about Kohli returning after a break from T20Is without the captaincy.

"I don't think it will be any different to the batsmen, I think one of the top things about Virat Kohli, when he was captain was, that he didn't let his form falter. His runs didn't dry up with the extra pressure that can happen sometimes - that didn't happen with him which was his greatness as a captain as well," Agarkar said on Star Sports Show Game Plan.

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"So, now that the captaincy pressure is off there might still be a role for him whether that's to play a bit more aggressively or still bat the whole innings and the other guys bat around him and bat more aggressively."

"I think that's for the team management to decide, but Virat Kohli's runs are so crucial for India - every time he scores runs India invariably end up winning. So, his form is crucial to India's success as well," he added.

India and West Indies will lock horns in three T20Is, beginning Wednesday at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata.

Agarkar also compared Shreyas Iyer and Suryakumar Yadav pointed out who will be a better pick for the T20I series against West Indies.

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"Both are very good players, both good strikers of the ball. I just feel Suryakumar Yadav is more versatile if you need him to bat a little bit higher or even if it`s at 5 or 6, he seems to have a bit more to his game or more all-around ability to his batting than Shreyas Iyer," said Agarkar.

"Shreyas Iyer is a terrific player who can strike the ball well but at this point, If I had to pick one out of the two - it'll have to be Suryakumar Yadav because he just seems in better form, seems to have a lot more all-round game and more suited to the number 5 or 6 at this point," he added.

Former India pacer Ajit Agarkar feels ex-skipper Virat Kohli's form is crucial for the side as whenever the batter has scored runs, the team has ended up winning the game.

Former India pacer Ajit Agarkar feels ex-skipper Virat Kohli's form is crucial for the side as whenever the batter has scored runs, the team has ended up winning the game. Kohli has not scored a century in two years with his last ton in international cricket coming way back in 2019 against Bangladesh. In the ODI series against West Indies, Kohli recorded scores of 8, 18, and 0. Ahead of the India-West Indies T20I series, Agarkar spoke about Kohli returning after a break from T20Is without the captaincy. "I don't think it will be any different to the batsmen, I think one of the top things about Virat Kohli, when he was captain was, that he didn't let his form falter. His runs didn't dry up with the extra pressure that can happen sometimes - that didn't happen with him which was his greatness as a captain as well," Agarkar said on Star Sports Show Game Plan. ALSO READ: Doors are open for everyone: Rohit Sharma opens up on Team India star Hardik Pandya's possible return "So, now that the captaincy pressure is off there might still be a role for him whether that's to play a bit more aggressively or still bat the whole innings and the other guys bat around him and bat more aggressively." "I think that's for the team management to decide, but Virat Kohli's runs are so crucial for India - every time he scores runs India invariably end up winning. So, his form is crucial to India's success as well," he added. India and West Indies will lock horns in three T20Is, beginning Wednesday at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata. Agarkar also compared Shreyas Iyer and Suryakumar Yadav pointed out who will be a better pick for the T20I series against West Indies. ALSO READ: Focus on colour 'blue': Rohit Sharma tells Team India to get over with IPL auctions ahead of WI T20Is "Both are very good players, both good strikers of the ball. I just feel Suryakumar Yadav is more versatile if you need him to bat a little bit higher or even if it`s at 5 or 6, he seems to have a bit more to his game or more all-around ability to his batting than Shreyas Iyer," said Agarkar. "Shreyas Iyer is a terrific player who can strike the ball well but at this point, If I had to pick one out of the two - it'll have to be Suryakumar Yadav because he just seems in better form, seems to have a lot more all-round game and more suited to the number 5 or 6 at this point," he added.

'Virat Kohli's form crucial to India's success': Former India pacer Ajit Agarkar on star batter's poor run

Former Indian fast-bowling all-rounder Ajit Agarkar has urged Virat Kohli to reconsider captaining the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the forthcoming IPL 2022 edition. Ahead of the mega auction, to be held on February 12 and 13 in Bengaluru, the ex-pacer Agarkar feels Kohli remains RCB's best bet to captain the three-time runners-up.

Prior to the mega auction, RCB retained the likes of former skipper Kohli INR 150 million, Glenn Maxwell (INR 110 million) and Md Siraj (for INR 70 million). With Kohli having resigned from the captaincy post after IPL 2021, the Bengaluru-based franchise will have to shop for a captain as well during the auction proceedings (which will likely be a costly buy). However, Agarkar feels if Kohli can reconsider his decision and reclaim the captaincy post, it will be the easiest solution for the franchise.

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"If Virat Kohli can take over the captaincy and if he is happy to do it and if he has the energy to do it, I think that will be the easiest solution for them," Agarkar told Star Sports show Game Plan ahead of the auction.

"At the end of the day, we have seen RCB over the years they haven't invested enough money in making a proper team of 12, 13 or 14 players with enough depth.&nbsp;It's always been dependent on the top three, not enough middle order players and if you don't have the money, you can't do that again. So, if you break the bank for one player, doesn't matter how good he is - will win you games but will never win you competitions," he further added.

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Under Kohli, RCB won 64 games in 140 matches, losing as many as 69 fixtures. The 33-year-old captained the franchise from 2011-2021 (becoming the full-time skipper since 2013) but couldn't lead them to the coveted title. In 2016, Kohli-led RCB played the season-finale where they lost to David Warner's Sunrisers Hyderbad (SRH).

Former Indian fast-bowling all-rounder Ajit Agarkar has urged Virat Kohli to reconsider captaining the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the forthcoming IPL 2022 edition.

Former Indian fast-bowling all-rounder Ajit Agarkar has urged Virat Kohli to reconsider captaining the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the forthcoming IPL 2022 edition. Ahead of the mega auction, to be held on February 12 and 13 in Bengaluru, the ex-pacer Agarkar feels Kohli remains RCB's best bet to captain the three-time runners-up. Prior to the mega auction, RCB retained the likes of former skipper Kohli INR 150 million, Glenn Maxwell (INR 110 million) and Md Siraj (for INR 70 million). With Kohli having resigned from the captaincy post after IPL 2021, the Bengaluru-based franchise will have to shop for a captain as well during the auction proceedings (which will likely be a costly buy). However, Agarkar feels if Kohli can reconsider his decision and reclaim the captaincy post, it will be the easiest solution for the franchise. ALSO READ | IPL 2022 mega auction: Not RCB, MI! Dinesh Karthik reveals which franchise he will feel 'great to play for' "If Virat Kohli can take over the captaincy and if he is happy to do it and if he has the energy to do it, I think that will be the easiest solution for them," Agarkar told Star Sports show Game Plan ahead of the auction. "At the end of the day, we have seen RCB over the years they haven't invested enough money in making a proper team of 12, 13 or 14 players with enough depth. It's always been dependent on the top three, not enough middle order players and if you don't have the money, you can't do that again. So, if you break the bank for one player, doesn't matter how good he is - will win you games but will never win you competitions," he further added. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni, Sachin Tendulkar make the cut in Venkatesh Prasad's all-time Indian ODI XI Under Kohli, RCB won 64 games in 140 matches, losing as many as 69 fixtures. The 33-year-old captained the franchise from 2011-2021 (becoming the full-time skipper since 2013) but couldn't lead them to the coveted title. In 2016, Kohli-led RCB played the season-finale where they lost to David Warner's Sunrisers Hyderbad (SRH).

That will be the easiest solution: Ajit Agarkar urges Virat Kohli to reconsider captaining RCB in IPL 2022

Former India pacer Ajit Agarkar has given his take on what will be the biggest challenge for Rohit Sharma as India's new white-ball captain after Virat Kohli. Rohit had taken over as the T20I captain of the Indian team after Kohli's decision to relinquish the post last year. Rohit was then appointed as ODI captain of the team as the selectors wanted one skipper in white-ball cricket.

Rohit's first major assignment as India's new ODI captain will be the upcoming home series against West Indies as he missed the recently-concluded tour of South Africa. Rohit couldn't recover in time from his hamstring injury to lead India in the ODI series against the Proteas which the visitors lost 3-0.

Rohit has been dealing with injury issues constantly for the last few years and there remain doubts over his availability with him being appointed as the full-time captain in ODIs and T20Is. Former India pacer Ajit Agarkar believes being on top of his fitness will be the biggest challenge for Rohit as the captain of the Indian team.

The former India cricketer pointed out how fitness was the strength of both Kohli and Dhoni as captains as the duo rarely missed a game for the Indian team during their respective captaincy stints. However, Rohit's fitness has not been in peak physical condition of late.

"I think it's a good thing and the right thing to do - to have one captain for white-ball format and now Rohit actually can fly. So, the challenge for Rohit Sharma - in my opinion - is to stay fit and play everything that is there, from now to the World Cup in white-ball cricket, because you want the captain - that was one of Virat Kohli's strengths or MS Dhoni before that, they rarely missed games, and both were very fit," Agarkar said on Star Sports.

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Rohit is also one of the favourites to take over as the captain of the Indian Test team after Kohli's resignation as skipper from the longest format. However, the chances of the selectors handing over the reins to Rohit are bleak considering his workload and fitness management.

The upcoming ODI series against West Indies will be Rohit's first as the captain of the Indian ODI side. The Hitman will be hoping to get off to a winning start. India will play three ODIs against the Kieron Pollard-led side followed by three T20Is.

Former India pacer Ajit Agarkar has given his take on what will be the biggest challenge for Rohit Sharma as India's new white-ball captain after Virat Kohli. Rohit had taken over as the T20I captain of the Indian team after Kohli's decision to relinquish the post last year.

Former India pacer Ajit Agarkar has given his take on what will be the biggest challenge for Rohit Sharma as India's new white-ball captain after Virat Kohli. Rohit had taken over as the T20I captain of the Indian team after Kohli's decision to relinquish the post last year. Rohit was then appointed as ODI captain of the team as the selectors wanted one skipper in white-ball cricket. Rohit's first major assignment as India's new ODI captain will be the upcoming home series against West Indies as he missed the recently-concluded tour of South Africa. Rohit couldn't recover in time from his hamstring injury to lead India in the ODI series against the Proteas which the visitors lost 3-0. Rohit has been dealing with injury issues constantly for the last few years and there remain doubts over his availability with him being appointed as the full-time captain in ODIs and T20Is. Former India pacer Ajit Agarkar believes being on top of his fitness will be the biggest challenge for Rohit as the captain of the Indian team. The former India cricketer pointed out how fitness was the strength of both Kohli and Dhoni as captains as the duo rarely missed a game for the Indian team during their respective captaincy stints. However, Rohit's fitness has not been in peak physical condition of late. "I think it's a good thing and the right thing to do - to have one captain for white-ball format and now Rohit actually can fly. So, the challenge for Rohit Sharma - in my opinion - is to stay fit and play everything that is there, from now to the World Cup in white-ball cricket, because you want the captain - that was one of Virat Kohli's strengths or MS Dhoni before that, they rarely missed games, and both were very fit," Agarkar said on Star Sports. Also Read: No one expected Virat Kohli to resign as India's Test captain, reveals all-rounder Shardul Thakur Rohit is also one of the favourites to take over as the captain of the Indian Test team after Kohli's resignation as skipper from the longest format. However, the chances of the selectors handing over the reins to Rohit are bleak considering his workload and fitness management. The upcoming ODI series against West Indies will be Rohit's first as the captain of the Indian ODI side. The Hitman will be hoping to get off to a winning start. India will play three ODIs against the Kieron Pollard-led side followed by three T20Is.

That was Dhoni and Kohli's strength: Ajit Agarkar on Rohit Sharma's biggest challenge as India's captain

Former India cricketer Ajit Agarkar believes the Indian team management needs to take a firm call regarding the future of senior batsmen Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane. Both Rahane and Pujara have struggled with their respective forms in Tests for India in the last few years and have failed to score runs consistently.

The duo's lean patch continued in the recently-concluded three-match Test series against South Africa where they both failed to get going once again. While Rahane managed to score 136 runs in three matches against the Proteas, Pujara notched up only 124 runs in as many games in what was an abysmal display from the senior duo.

There have been calls over the exclusion of both Pujara and Rahane from India's Test squad with a number of youngsters waiting in the wings. The likes of Shreyas Iyer, Hanuma Vihari and Shubman Gill can all be slotted in the middle-order while Ruturaj Gaikwad and KS Bharat among others remain great future prospects for the country in the longest format.

Former India cricketer Agarkar said there are tough decisions to be made on Pujara and Rahane's future but India have talented players waiting in the wings to take their spots in the team.&nbsp;

"There is no doubt that there is scrutiny on Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane and there has to be a discussion about that because you have players who can take their places. Certainly, there are tough decisions to be made, not only about Pujara or only about Rahane, but regarding both of them," Agarkar said during a discussion on Star Sports.

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"You have two players - Shreyas Iyer played a good Test in Kanpur and I don't think Vihari has done anything wrong whenever he has played Test cricket. You have Shubman Gill as well, so you have options," he added.

<h2>You have to decide what is best for the Indian team: Agarkar</h2>

Both Rahane and Pujara have been underperforming with the bat for quite a while now in Tests. However, they have been given a long rope by the selectors and the team management considering their experience and their contributions in the past.

However, Agarkar believes Pujara and Rahane's future should be decided for the larger good of the team as the duo look under pressure each time they walk out to bat in the middle.&nbsp;

"It is not that you are doing this just because you have lost. We are seeing with both these players for quite some time that every time they go out to bat, we say they are under pressure, or it might be their most important innings, or their last innings in Test cricket and the way they are batting," said Agarkar.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dream-turned-into-a-nightmare-suni-gavaskar-baffled-by-indias-tactics-in-third-test-against-south-africa-444945">&nbsp;'Dream turned into a nightmare': Suni Gavaskar baffled by India's tactics in third Test against South Africa</a>

"You will have to decide what is best for your team. You will have to take those decisions and those decisions cannot be emotional, whether that player has played 150 Tests or five Tests. If a player is not taking the team forward, maybe those are the decisions you have to take," he explained.

<h2>&nbsp;</h2>

&nbsp;

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Former India cricketer Ajit Agarkar believes the Indian team management needs to take a firm call regarding the future of senior batsmen Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane.

Former India cricketer Ajit Agarkar believes the Indian team management needs to take a firm call regarding the future of senior batsmen Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane. Both Rahane and Pujara have struggled with their respective forms in Tests for India in the last few years and have failed to score runs consistently. The duo's lean patch continued in the recently-concluded three-match Test series against South Africa where they both failed to get going once again. While Rahane managed to score 136 runs in three matches against the Proteas, Pujara notched up only 124 runs in as many games in what was an abysmal display from the senior duo. There have been calls over the exclusion of both Pujara and Rahane from India's Test squad with a number of youngsters waiting in the wings. The likes of Shreyas Iyer, Hanuma Vihari and Shubman Gill can all be slotted in the middle-order while Ruturaj Gaikwad and KS Bharat among others remain great future prospects for the country in the longest format. Former India cricketer Agarkar said there are tough decisions to be made on Pujara and Rahane's future but India have talented players waiting in the wings to take their spots in the team. "There is no doubt that there is scrutiny on Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane and there has to be a discussion about that because you have players who can take their places. Certainly, there are tough decisions to be made, not only about Pujara or only about Rahane, but regarding both of them," Agarkar said during a discussion on Star Sports. Also Read: No charges but Virat Kohli & Co. warned by ICC officials after stump-mic outburst against South Africa "You have two players - Shreyas Iyer played a good Test in Kanpur and I don't think Vihari has done anything wrong whenever he has played Test cricket. You have Shubman Gill as well, so you have options," he added. You have to decide what is best for the Indian team: Agarkar Both Rahane and Pujara have been underperforming with the bat for quite a while now in Tests. However, they have been given a long rope by the selectors and the team management considering their experience and their contributions in the past. However, Agarkar believes Pujara and Rahane's future should be decided for the larger good of the team as the duo look under pressure each time they walk out to bat in the middle. "It is not that you are doing this just because you have lost. We are seeing with both these players for quite some time that every time they go out to bat, we say they are under pressure, or it might be their most important innings, or their last innings in Test cricket and the way they are batting," said Agarkar. Also Read: 'Dream turned into a nightmare': Suni Gavaskar baffled by India's tactics in third Test against South Africa "You will have to decide what is best for your team. You will have to take those decisions and those decisions cannot be emotional, whether that player has played 150 Tests or five Tests. If a player is not taking the team forward, maybe those are the decisions you have to take," he explained.

Ajit Agarkar on Rahane and Pujara's future in Test cricket: 'You have players who can take their places'

India and South Africa are involved in a thrilling third and final Test at Newlands, Cape Town. The entire series has been a topsy-turvy ride with both teams leaving no stone unturned and not allowing the other to dictate terms from the word go.

While KL Rahul, Captain Virat Kohli, pacers Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, all-rounder Shardul Thakur and Rishabh Pant have done well during the course of the series for the Rahul Dravid-coached Indian team, Mayank Agarwal, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, R Ashwin, etc. haven't done anything extra ordinary. Talking about Mayank, the right-hander started the tour with a fine 60 in the first innings of the series opener, however, he couldn't capitalise on any of the following outings to return with scores of&nbsp;9, 17, 3, and 7.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-virat-kohli-inspires-indian-dugout-to-relentlessly-cheer-for-pacers-on-day-2-of-3rd-test-444404">WATCH: Virat Kohli inspires Indian dugout to relentlessly cheer for pacers on Day 2 of 3rd Test</a>

Thus, former Indian fast-bowling all-rounder Ajit Agarkar opened up on Mayank's struggles overseas and said was quoted as saying by News18,&nbsp;"He has wasted a chance because he started the series well. It is not easy when Rabada is in such a good rhythm, the way he was bowling, but he [Mayank] has technical faults. He gets out in the same way and he will get more exposed, especially, in overseas conditions."

"He could have done very little with this ball because it was close to the off-stump on a good length, moved away slightly after pitching, and bounced as well. Mayank Agarwal has not played much in overseas conditions either because he is the third or fourth opener," Agarkar further mentioned.

Given that the likes of Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill missed the SA Tests due to injury concerns, Mayank would be gutted to have not made a bigger contribution with the bat in the ongoing series, in the rainbow nation.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-keegan-petersen-takes-a-one-handed-stunner-to-dismiss-cheteshwar-pujara-on-day-3-in-cape-town-444377">WATCH: Keegan Petersen takes a one-handed stunner to dismiss Cheteshwar Pujara on Day 3 in Cape Town</a>

After the SA series, India will host Sri Lanka in a two-match Test series, which&nbsp;is scheduled to be held on February 25 and March 5, respectively. Thus, the Test specialist Mayank will be eager to make the most of his opportunities versus the Lankans and remain in India's scheme of things&nbsp;in the red-ball format.

India and South Africa are involved in a thrilling third and final Test at Newlands, Cape Town. The entire series has been a topsy-turvy ride with both teams leaving no stone unturned and not allowing the other to dictate terms from the word go.

India and South Africa are involved in a thrilling third and final Test at Newlands, Cape Town. The entire series has been a topsy-turvy ride with both teams leaving no stone unturned and not allowing the other to dictate terms from the word go. While KL Rahul, Captain Virat Kohli, pacers Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, all-rounder Shardul Thakur and Rishabh Pant have done well during the course of the series for the Rahul Dravid-coached Indian team, Mayank Agarwal, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, R Ashwin, etc. haven't done anything extra ordinary. Talking about Mayank, the right-hander started the tour with a fine 60 in the first innings of the series opener, however, he couldn't capitalise on any of the following outings to return with scores of 9, 17, 3, and 7. ALSO READ | WATCH: Virat Kohli inspires Indian dugout to relentlessly cheer for pacers on Day 2 of 3rd Test Thus, former Indian fast-bowling all-rounder Ajit Agarkar opened up on Mayank's struggles overseas and said was quoted as saying by News18, "He has wasted a chance because he started the series well. It is not easy when Rabada is in such a good rhythm, the way he was bowling, but he [Mayank] has technical faults. He gets out in the same way and he will get more exposed, especially, in overseas conditions." "He could have done very little with this ball because it was close to the off-stump on a good length, moved away slightly after pitching, and bounced as well. Mayank Agarwal has not played much in overseas conditions either because he is the third or fourth opener," Agarkar further mentioned. Given that the likes of Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill missed the SA Tests due to injury concerns, Mayank would be gutted to have not made a bigger contribution with the bat in the ongoing series, in the rainbow nation. ALSO READ | WATCH: Keegan Petersen takes a one-handed stunner to dismiss Cheteshwar Pujara on Day 3 in Cape Town After the SA series, India will host Sri Lanka in a two-match Test series, which is scheduled to be held on February 25 and March 5, respectively. Thus, the Test specialist Mayank will be eager to make the most of his opportunities versus the Lankans and remain in India's scheme of things in the red-ball format.

He has technical faults, will get more exposed in overseas conditions: Agarkar opines on Indian batter

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

Former India pacer Ajit Agarkar feels India should not keep Bhuvneshwar Kumar in the playing XI for the much-awaited clash against Pakistan in the T20 World Cup 2021. India will open their campaign in the T20 World Cup 2021 with a blockbuster encounter against their arch-rivals in Dubai on October 24.

Ahead of the game, Agarkar gave his take on what should be India's ideal combination in the playing XI. With Hardik Pandya unlikely to bowl, Agarkar believes captain Virat Kohli will like to go into the game with at least six bowling options to choose from. Pandya did not bowl in the entire second leg of IPL 2021 and is expected to play as a pure batter if he makes the cut in the playing XI.

"Relatively certain that Virat Kohli would like six bowling options. If the pitch has something to offer, then you can perhaps take a chance with five bowlers, but if it’s a flat pitch, he would ideally want to go in with six bowlers with three seamers and they have lots of spin options," Agarkar said on Star Sports show Cricket Connected.

Bhuvneshwar, who featured in India's warm-up game against England on Monday (October 18) looked completely out of sorts and was taken to cleaners by the English batters. The senior pacer ended up conceding 54 runs in the game and remained wicket-less.

With his poor form a concern, Agarkar believes Shardul Thakur should be picked over Bhuvneshwar for the game against Pakistan which will be a high-octane affair with expectations at an all-time from both ends.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-never-give-big-statements-virender-sehwag-explains-why-pakistan-have-failed-to-beat-india-in-world-cups-422082">'We never give big statements': Virender Sehwag explains why Pakistan have failed to beat India in World Cups</a>

"And Jadeja is an all-rounder whose batting has come out in leaps and bounds. So, you can treat him as one of the top-order batsmen. So, my six options if Hadik Pandya is not to bowl - would be Bumrah, Shami, Shardul, Ravindra Jadeja, Varun Chakravarthy and Rahul Chahar," said Agarkar as he snubbed Bhuvneshwar from his playing XI.

Bhvneshwar also had an average IPL 2021 where he looked out of rhythm and could only manage six wickets in 11 matches for the franchise as they finished at the bottom of the table.

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Former India pacer Ajit Agarkar feels India should not keep Bhuvneshwar Kumar in the playing XI for the much-awaited clash against Pakistan in the T20 World Cup 2021.

Former India pacer Ajit Agarkar feels India should not keep Bhuvneshwar Kumar in the playing XI for the much-awaited clash against Pakistan in the T20 World Cup 2021. India will open their campaign in the T20 World Cup 2021 with a blockbuster encounter against their arch-rivals in Dubai on October 24. Ahead of the game, Agarkar gave his take on what should be India's ideal combination in the playing XI. With Hardik Pandya unlikely to bowl, Agarkar believes captain Virat Kohli will like to go into the game with at least six bowling options to choose from. Pandya did not bowl in the entire second leg of IPL 2021 and is expected to play as a pure batter if he makes the cut in the playing XI. "Relatively certain that Virat Kohli would like six bowling options. If the pitch has something to offer, then you can perhaps take a chance with five bowlers, but if it’s a flat pitch, he would ideally want to go in with six bowlers with three seamers and they have lots of spin options," Agarkar said on Star Sports show Cricket Connected. Bhuvneshwar, who featured in India's warm-up game against England on Monday (October 18) looked completely out of sorts and was taken to cleaners by the English batters. The senior pacer ended up conceding 54 runs in the game and remained wicket-less. With his poor form a concern, Agarkar believes Shardul Thakur should be picked over Bhuvneshwar for the game against Pakistan which will be a high-octane affair with expectations at an all-time from both ends. Also Read: 'We never give big statements': Virender Sehwag explains why Pakistan have failed to beat India in World Cups "And Jadeja is an all-rounder whose batting has come out in leaps and bounds. So, you can treat him as one of the top-order batsmen. So, my six options if Hadik Pandya is not to bowl - would be Bumrah, Shami, Shardul, Ravindra Jadeja, Varun Chakravarthy and Rahul Chahar," said Agarkar as he snubbed Bhuvneshwar from his playing XI. Bhvneshwar also had an average IPL 2021 where he looked out of rhythm and could only manage six wickets in 11 matches for the franchise as they finished at the bottom of the table.

Ajit Agarkar snubs Bhuvneshwar Kumar, names pacer Virat Kohli & Co. should play against Pakistan

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