The stage is set for the commencement of the next edition of the IPL. The IPL 2022 edition will get underway on March 26 with the four-time winners and defending champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) up against last edition's runners-up Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai.

This time around, the cash-rich league will see two more teams be a part of the tournament, such as the Gujarat Titans (GT) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). Talking about the Gujarat franchise, they have a good mix of youth and experience and will be captained by Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya. Hardik, who soon became a regular in the Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai Indians' (MI) camp since his debut in IPL 2015, recently revealed his philosophy as captain ahead of the upcoming season.

"My philosophy for this season is that success is theirs and failure is mine," Hardik said during GT's&nbsp;jersey launch event recently. Here's the video of the same shared by the official Twitter handle of GT:

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Boht Hard, captain! 🤘😎 
Apna time aa gaya…<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GujaratTitans?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GujaratTitans</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SeasonOfFirsts?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SeasonOfFirsts</a> <a href="https://t.co/fM4dTGxsDN">pic.twitter.com/fM4dTGxsDN</a>
— Gujarat Titans (@gujarat_titans) <a href="https://twitter.com/gujarat_titans/status/1504357584165240832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 17, 2022</a></blockquote>
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For the unversed, this will be the 28-year-old Hardik's&nbsp;first-ever season as an IPL captain. Hence, he will like to impress as a leader and also showcase his credentials once again as an all-round player. He has been out of action at the international level since the 2021 T20 World Cup, due to fitness concerns, and, thus, the forthcoming edition is really important for him to make a comeback into the Indian team at the earliest.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;

The GT camp will open its season against KL Rahul-led LSG on March 28. Here's their full schedule:

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Some call it a schedule, we call it a Hit List! 😈 
 
Mark your 🗓️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GujaratTitans?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GujaratTitans</a> <a href="https://t.co/FTGifl5qUY">pic.twitter.com/FTGifl5qUY</a>
— Gujarat Titans (@gujarat_titans) <a href="https://twitter.com/gujarat_titans/status/1500476879371120640?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 6, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/gujarat-titans-complete-squad-for-ipl-2022-hardik-pandya-led-line-up-invest-in-all-rounders-pacers-453170">Gujarat Titans Complete squad for IPL 2022: Hardik Pandya-led line-up filled with all-rounders, star pacers</a>

Gujarat Titans Squad:&nbsp;Hardik Pandya (C), Rashid Khan, Shubamn Gill, Lockie Ferguson, Rahul Tewatia, Mohammad Shami, Yash Dayal, David Miller, Sai Kishore, Abhinav Sadarangani, Matthew Wade, Alzarri Joseph, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Wriddhiman Saha, Jayant Yadav, Vijay Shankar, Dominic Drakes, Varun Aaron, Gurkeerat Singh, Noor Ahmad, Darshan Nalkande, Pradeep Sangwan.

The stage is set for the commencement of the next edition of the IPL. The IPL 2022 edition will get underway on March 26 with the four-time winners and defending champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) up against last edition's runners-up Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai.

The stage is set for the commencement of the next edition of the IPL. The IPL 2022 edition will get underway on March 26 with the four-time winners and defending champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) up against last edition's runners-up Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. This time around, the cash-rich league will see two more teams be a part of the tournament, such as the Gujarat Titans (GT) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). Talking about the Gujarat franchise, they have a good mix of youth and experience and will be captained by Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya. Hardik, who soon became a regular in the Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai Indians' (MI) camp since his debut in IPL 2015, recently revealed his philosophy as captain ahead of the upcoming season. "My philosophy for this season is that success is theirs and failure is mine," Hardik said during GT's jersey launch event recently. Here's the video of the same shared by the official Twitter handle of GT: Boht Hard, captain! 🤘😎 Apna time aa gaya…#GujaratTitans #SeasonOfFirsts pic.twitter.com/fM4dTGxsDN — Gujarat Titans (@gujarat_titans) March 17, 2022 × For the unversed, this will be the 28-year-old Hardik's first-ever season as an IPL captain. Hence, he will like to impress as a leader and also showcase his credentials once again as an all-round player. He has been out of action at the international level since the 2021 T20 World Cup, due to fitness concerns, and, thus, the forthcoming edition is really important for him to make a comeback into the Indian team at the earliest. ALSO READ | The GT camp will open its season against KL Rahul-led LSG on March 28. Here's their full schedule: Some call it a schedule, we call it a Hit List! 😈 Mark your 🗓️#GujaratTitans pic.twitter.com/FTGifl5qUY — Gujarat Titans (@gujarat_titans) March 6, 2022 × ALSO READ | Gujarat Titans Complete squad for IPL 2022: Hardik Pandya-led line-up filled with all-rounders, star pacers Gujarat Titans Squad: Hardik Pandya (C), Rashid Khan, Shubamn Gill, Lockie Ferguson, Rahul Tewatia, Mohammad Shami, Yash Dayal, David Miller, Sai Kishore, Abhinav Sadarangani, Matthew Wade, Alzarri Joseph, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Wriddhiman Saha, Jayant Yadav, Vijay Shankar, Dominic Drakes, Varun Aaron, Gurkeerat Singh, Noor Ahmad, Darshan Nalkande, Pradeep Sangwan.

Success is theirs, failure is mine: Captain Hardik Pandya shares his philosophy ahead of IPL 2022

A lot has been said and written about the struggles of Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane. The two Test specialists have been under-performing with the bat for quite some time and their low scores in the ongoing second Test's first innings has intensified the talks for the duo's&nbsp;omissions.

Former Indian pacer Ashish Nehra, however, feels the two senior batters need to be persisted with for the entire three-match Test series versus South Africa. Nehra further pointed out that even someone of a stature of Virat Kohli hasn't done well with the bat. Kohli averages 26.08 in Tests since early 2020 whereas the average of likes of Rahane and Pujara also hovers around 25 during the same period.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/one-of-the-two-have-to-karthik-makes-bold-claim-predicts-who-could-miss-out-on-virat-kohlis-return-442147">'One of the two have to...' - Karthik makes bold claim, predicts who could miss out on Virat Kohli's return</a>

"Even Virat Kohli has similar numbers but people are not questioning his place in the team. Obviously, he is the captain and what Kohli has done is on a completely different level from the two batters we are talking about. It is not fair to compare, but Rahane and Pujara have also been second to none at their peak, especially the latter,” Nehra told&nbsp;Cricbuzz.

Nehra further added, "If you have backed a player like Rahane for the 1st Test, it would be better to carry on with him for the rest of the series. Obviously, Rahane was the one who was out (officially due to injury) when Kohli came back for the second Test against New Zealand, though he led the team in the first.

"Agreed, both Pujara and Rahane have been in big trouble of late. But changing players in the middle of an important series is a big decision," he asserted further.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/all-kinds-of-thoughts-manjrekar-on-kohlis-absence-says-was-absolutely-shocked-to-see-him-miss-out-442120">'All kinds of thoughts...': Manjrekar on Kohli's absence, says 'was absolutely shocked' to see him miss out</a>

For the unversed, Rahane has scored only two half-centuries following his last Test ton in the MCG Test in late 2020. On the other hand, Pujara's last hundred came in early 2019 and, hence, both the cricketers are running against time to hold onto their respective spots in whites.

Needless to say, both Rahane and Pujara will have to score big in India's second innings of the ongoing J'burg Test or will soon perish from the Test line-up.

A lot has been said and written about the struggles of Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane. The two Test specialists have been under-performing with the bat for quite some time and their low scores in the ongoing second Test's first innings has intensified the talks for the duo's omissions.

A lot has been said and written about the struggles of Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane. The two Test specialists have been under-performing with the bat for quite some time and their low scores in the ongoing second Test's first innings has intensified the talks for the duo's omissions. Former Indian pacer Ashish Nehra, however, feels the two senior batters need to be persisted with for the entire three-match Test series versus South Africa. Nehra further pointed out that even someone of a stature of Virat Kohli hasn't done well with the bat. Kohli averages 26.08 in Tests since early 2020 whereas the average of likes of Rahane and Pujara also hovers around 25 during the same period. ALSO READ | 'One of the two have to...' - Karthik makes bold claim, predicts who could miss out on Virat Kohli's return "Even Virat Kohli has similar numbers but people are not questioning his place in the team. Obviously, he is the captain and what Kohli has done is on a completely different level from the two batters we are talking about. It is not fair to compare, but Rahane and Pujara have also been second to none at their peak, especially the latter,” Nehra told Cricbuzz. Nehra further added, "If you have backed a player like Rahane for the 1st Test, it would be better to carry on with him for the rest of the series. Obviously, Rahane was the one who was out (officially due to injury) when Kohli came back for the second Test against New Zealand, though he led the team in the first. "Agreed, both Pujara and Rahane have been in big trouble of late. But changing players in the middle of an important series is a big decision," he asserted further. ALSO READ | 'All kinds of thoughts...': Manjrekar on Kohli's absence, says 'was absolutely shocked' to see him miss out For the unversed, Rahane has scored only two half-centuries following his last Test ton in the MCG Test in late 2020. On the other hand, Pujara's last hundred came in early 2019 and, hence, both the cricketers are running against time to hold onto their respective spots in whites. Needless to say, both Rahane and Pujara will have to score big in India's second innings of the ongoing J'burg Test or will soon perish from the Test line-up.

Kohli has similar numbers but people aren't questioning him: Nehra reacts to criticism of Rahane and Pujara

Former India pacer Ashish Nehra is reportedly set to become the head coach of the Ahmedabad IPL franchise from the 2022 season of the Indian Premier League. Ahmedabad and Lucknow are the two new teams set to become part of the competition from this year. The new teams have already started making the right moves ahead of the mega auction as they aim to build strong squads for their debut season.

While the Lucknow IPL team has already confirmed the arrival of Andy Flower as the head coach and former India cricketer Gautam Gambhir as the mentor of the side, the Ahmedabad franchise has also reportedly selected their backroom staff ahead of the new season. The Ahmedabad franchise is likely to rope in Nehra as their head coach and former India coach Gary Kirsten as the mentor of the team.

Former England batter Vikram Solanki is reportedly set to be the 'Director of Cricket' and will also serve as the batting coach of the team. The Ahmedabad franchise has not made the appointments official yet as they continue to wait for the formal 'Letter of Intent' (LOI) from BCCI after the conclusion of the investigation surrounding their investments in betting firms in the UK.

"As far as I have heard, they have signed Ashish as their head coach and someone who would be in overall charge of the franchise. Solanki will be the 'Director of Cricket' and also expected to double up as batting coach and Kirsten will be in a mentorship role," a senior IPL source was quoted as saying by PTI.

"The Ahmedabad franchise can't announce it formally as it is a BCCI diktat and they can only make a formal announcement after they get the Letter Of Intent. The head honchos of the Ahmedabad franchise has already interviewed the trio and short-listed them for the season," the source added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/from-kl-rahul-to-shreyas-iyer-5-potential-captaincy-candidates-for-new-ipl-teams-lucknow-and-ahmedabad-434365">From Rahul to&nbsp;Iyer: 5 potential captaincy candidates for new IPL teams Lucknow and Ahmedabad</a>

The Ahmedabad franchise is expected to receive the LOI for their ownership of the team later this month. The two new teams can pick a maximum of three players in the draft ahead of the mega auction. It remains to be seen who will Ahmedabad franchise rope in ahead of the auction.

The mega auction for the 2022 IPL season is all set to be conducted in February. A number of star players will go under the hammer at the auction which is expected to be a blockbuster affair.

&nbsp;

Former India pacer Ashish Nehra is reportedly set to become the head coach of the Ahmedabad IPL franchise from the 2022 season of the Indian Premier League. Ahmedabad and Lucknow are the two new teams set to become part of the competition from this year.

Former India pacer Ashish Nehra is reportedly set to become the head coach of the Ahmedabad IPL franchise from the 2022 season of the Indian Premier League. Ahmedabad and Lucknow are the two new teams set to become part of the competition from this year. The new teams have already started making the right moves ahead of the mega auction as they aim to build strong squads for their debut season. While the Lucknow IPL team has already confirmed the arrival of Andy Flower as the head coach and former India cricketer Gautam Gambhir as the mentor of the side, the Ahmedabad franchise has also reportedly selected their backroom staff ahead of the new season. The Ahmedabad franchise is likely to rope in Nehra as their head coach and former India coach Gary Kirsten as the mentor of the team. Former England batter Vikram Solanki is reportedly set to be the 'Director of Cricket' and will also serve as the batting coach of the team. The Ahmedabad franchise has not made the appointments official yet as they continue to wait for the formal 'Letter of Intent' (LOI) from BCCI after the conclusion of the investigation surrounding their investments in betting firms in the UK. "As far as I have heard, they have signed Ashish as their head coach and someone who would be in overall charge of the franchise. Solanki will be the 'Director of Cricket' and also expected to double up as batting coach and Kirsten will be in a mentorship role," a senior IPL source was quoted as saying by PTI. "The Ahmedabad franchise can't announce it formally as it is a BCCI diktat and they can only make a formal announcement after they get the Letter Of Intent. The head honchos of the Ahmedabad franchise has already interviewed the trio and short-listed them for the season," the source added. Also Read: From Rahul to Iyer: 5 potential captaincy candidates for new IPL teams Lucknow and Ahmedabad The Ahmedabad franchise is expected to receive the LOI for their ownership of the team later this month. The two new teams can pick a maximum of three players in the draft ahead of the mega auction. It remains to be seen who will Ahmedabad franchise rope in ahead of the auction. The mega auction for the 2022 IPL season is all set to be conducted in February. A number of star players will go under the hammer at the auction which is expected to be a blockbuster affair.

Ahmedabad IPL franchise likely to rope in Ashish Nehra as head coach, Gary Kirsten to be mentor - Report

India started Day 1 of the Centurion Test, versus South Africa, with a bang. Winning the toss and opting to bat first, Virat Kohli-led India were off to a flier courtesy openers KL Rahul and Mayank Agarwal. While Mayank fell for a well-made 60, Rahul continued from one end and took India to 272-3 at stumps on the opening day of the Boxing Day Test in the African nation.&nbsp;

As Rahul continued to score runs across formats, Kohli continued to remain away from his 71st international ton. His century-drought still didn't come to an end despite the 33-year-old Test captain making a good-looking 94-ball 35. Just when he was settled and looking good to stay unbeaten at stumps, the right-hander threw his wicket away by playing a loose shot off Lungi Ngidi.

Thus, Kohli's ardent fans continue to wait for the Indian skipper's 71st ton at the highest level. Former Indian pacer Ashish Nehra opined on the Indian star batter's dismissal and while he stated that the manner of his dismissal is a 'concern', Nehra was quick to predict that a masterclass innings from King Kohli isn't far away.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-used-to-get-upset-when-his-name-was-not-in-the-xi-ashish-nehra-heaps-praise-on-young-india-pacer-440445">He used to get upset when his name was not in the XI: Ashish Nehra heaps praise on young India pacer</a>

Nehra told on Cricbuzz, "You expect runs from someone like Kohli. He would be unhappy with his performance. But if you look at the stats, Kohli has scored runs in the previous away series in England conditions. He has the hunger to score hundreds and double hundreds and he would be a bit unhappy with himself today.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sa-1st-test-dravid-gives-a-pat-on-pujaras-back-to-uplift-his-spirits-after-golden-duck-watch-440395">Ind vs SA, 1st Test: Dravid gives a pat on Pujara's back to uplift his spirits after golden duck - WATCH</a>

"You expect Kohli to play those 135-150 kmph deliveries on the front foot but when the ball starts moving and gets bounce too, any player would face difficulties. We haven't seen the Kohli whom we saw in 2-3 years but once he gets out of this zone, he will be unstoppable. But Kohli's mentality and understanding of the game will help him score that much-awaited knock. He had scored 74 in the Adelaide Test against Australia this year and another such knock isn't far away," added Nehra.

Talking about the first Test, Day 2 of the series opener got washed out on Monday (December 27) without a ball being bowled due to rain showers. India will resume from 272-3 on the third day's morning session and hope to negate any threat from the Proteas bowlers before accelerating.&nbsp;

Kohli-led India have started really well and will hope their bowlers produce the goods to claim 20 wickets in the rain-marred Centurion Test.

India started Day 1 of the Centurion Test, versus South Africa, with a bang. Winning the toss and opting to bat first, Virat Kohli-led India were off to a flier courtesy openers KL Rahul and Mayank Agarwal.

India started Day 1 of the Centurion Test, versus South Africa, with a bang. Winning the toss and opting to bat first, Virat Kohli-led India were off to a flier courtesy openers KL Rahul and Mayank Agarwal. While Mayank fell for a well-made 60, Rahul continued from one end and took India to 272-3 at stumps on the opening day of the Boxing Day Test in the African nation. As Rahul continued to score runs across formats, Kohli continued to remain away from his 71st international ton. His century-drought still didn't come to an end despite the 33-year-old Test captain making a good-looking 94-ball 35. Just when he was settled and looking good to stay unbeaten at stumps, the right-hander threw his wicket away by playing a loose shot off Lungi Ngidi. Thus, Kohli's ardent fans continue to wait for the Indian skipper's 71st ton at the highest level. Former Indian pacer Ashish Nehra opined on the Indian star batter's dismissal and while he stated that the manner of his dismissal is a 'concern', Nehra was quick to predict that a masterclass innings from King Kohli isn't far away. ALSO READ | He used to get upset when his name was not in the XI: Ashish Nehra heaps praise on young India pacer Nehra told on Cricbuzz, "You expect runs from someone like Kohli. He would be unhappy with his performance. But if you look at the stats, Kohli has scored runs in the previous away series in England conditions. He has the hunger to score hundreds and double hundreds and he would be a bit unhappy with himself today. ALSO READ | Ind vs SA, 1st Test: Dravid gives a pat on Pujara's back to uplift his spirits after golden duck - WATCH "You expect Kohli to play those 135-150 kmph deliveries on the front foot but when the ball starts moving and gets bounce too, any player would face difficulties. We haven't seen the Kohli whom we saw in 2-3 years but once he gets out of this zone, he will be unstoppable. But Kohli's mentality and understanding of the game will help him score that much-awaited knock. He had scored 74 in the Adelaide Test against Australia this year and another such knock isn't far away," added Nehra. Talking about the first Test, Day 2 of the series opener got washed out on Monday (December 27) without a ball being bowled due to rain showers. India will resume from 272-3 on the third day's morning session and hope to negate any threat from the Proteas bowlers before accelerating. Kohli-led India have started really well and will hope their bowlers produce the goods to claim 20 wickets in the rain-marred Centurion Test.

Ind vs SA, 1st Test: Ex-India pacer Ashish Nehra predicts a top knock from Virat Kohli 'isn't far away'

Indian Test captain Virat Kohli had another disappointing outing in the team's first innings of the ongoing first Test against South Africa in Centurion. The two sides are currently locking horns in the Boxing Day Test which got underway from Sunday (December 26). Opting to bat first after winning the toss, India were off to a brilliant start in their first innings.

Openers KL Rahul and Mayank Agarwal combined to post a 117-run stand for the first wicket to get India off to a flyer in the series-opener. While Agarwal was dismissed on 60, Rahul went on to slam an unbeaten 122 off 248 balls to help the visitors post 272/3 at stumps on Day 1.

Kohli, who came out to bat no.3, looked in decent touch as he played the South African pacers really well while also playing some stunning shots. However, he once again failed to convert his good start into a big score and ended up making a costly mistake against Lungi Ngidi. In the 69th over, Ngidi bowled one way outside off and Kohli ended up going after the ball.

He could have left the ball comfortably but edged one to Wiaan Mulder, who was standing at slips and took a comfortable catch. Kohli departed after scoring 35 runs off 94 balls and disappointment was quite evident on his face as he returned back to the dressing room after his innings was cut short.

Former India pacer Ashish Neha gave his take on Kohli's dismissal and said the Indian skipper must not be happy with the way he got dismissed. Nehra reckoned it was a great chance for the Indian skipper to score big and get close to ending his long-standing century drought in international cricket.

“You expect runs from someone like Kohli. He would be unhappy with his performance. But if you look at the stats, Kohli has scored runs in the previous away series in England conditions. He has the hunger to score hundreds and double hundreds and he would be a bit unhappy with himself today,” Nehra said on Cricbuzz.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sa-1st-test-dravid-gives-a-pat-on-pujaras-back-to-uplift-his-spirits-after-golden-duck-watch-440395">Head coach Dravid gives a pat on Pujara's back to uplift his spirits after golden duck - WATCH</a>

Nehra feels Kohli's poor form of late is a bit concerning for the Indian team as the skipper has been throwing away his wickets more often than not. Nehra insisted Kohli should have left the delivery on which he was caught at slips against Ngidi during India's first innings.

“Looking at the way he’s been dismissed, it’s a bit of concern. South Africa bowlers made Kohli play a loose shot and this has been a problem lately. Kohli has been giving his wickets to bowlers. Looking at today’s dismissal, we understand how Kohli has been out facing swinging deliveries aimed around the fourth stump. In such cases, you need the batter to leave those deliveries.. we saw that from KL Rahul today,” said the former India pacer.

Indian batters couldn't continue their domination on Day 2 of the Boxing Day Test in Centurion as the play was called off without a ball being bowled due to heavy rain. India will resume their first innings from&nbsp;272/3 on Day 3.

Indian Test captain Virat Kohli had another disappointing outing in the team's first innings of the ongoing first Test against South Africa in Centurion. The two sides are currently locking horns in the Boxing Day Test which got underway from Sunday (December 26).

Indian Test captain Virat Kohli had another disappointing outing in the team's first innings of the ongoing first Test against South Africa in Centurion. The two sides are currently locking horns in the Boxing Day Test which got underway from Sunday (December 26). Opting to bat first after winning the toss, India were off to a brilliant start in their first innings. Openers KL Rahul and Mayank Agarwal combined to post a 117-run stand for the first wicket to get India off to a flyer in the series-opener. While Agarwal was dismissed on 60, Rahul went on to slam an unbeaten 122 off 248 balls to help the visitors post 272/3 at stumps on Day 1. Kohli, who came out to bat no.3, looked in decent touch as he played the South African pacers really well while also playing some stunning shots. However, he once again failed to convert his good start into a big score and ended up making a costly mistake against Lungi Ngidi. In the 69th over, Ngidi bowled one way outside off and Kohli ended up going after the ball. He could have left the ball comfortably but edged one to Wiaan Mulder, who was standing at slips and took a comfortable catch. Kohli departed after scoring 35 runs off 94 balls and disappointment was quite evident on his face as he returned back to the dressing room after his innings was cut short. Former India pacer Ashish Neha gave his take on Kohli's dismissal and said the Indian skipper must not be happy with the way he got dismissed. Nehra reckoned it was a great chance for the Indian skipper to score big and get close to ending his long-standing century drought in international cricket. “You expect runs from someone like Kohli. He would be unhappy with his performance. But if you look at the stats, Kohli has scored runs in the previous away series in England conditions. He has the hunger to score hundreds and double hundreds and he would be a bit unhappy with himself today,” Nehra said on Cricbuzz. Also Read: Head coach Dravid gives a pat on Pujara's back to uplift his spirits after golden duck - WATCH Nehra feels Kohli's poor form of late is a bit concerning for the Indian team as the skipper has been throwing away his wickets more often than not. Nehra insisted Kohli should have left the delivery on which he was caught at slips against Ngidi during India's first innings. “Looking at the way he’s been dismissed, it’s a bit of concern. South Africa bowlers made Kohli play a loose shot and this has been a problem lately. Kohli has been giving his wickets to bowlers. Looking at today’s dismissal, we understand how Kohli has been out facing swinging deliveries aimed around the fourth stump. In such cases, you need the batter to leave those deliveries.. we saw that from KL Rahul today,” said the former India pacer. Indian batters couldn't continue their domination on Day 2 of the Boxing Day Test in Centurion as the play was called off without a ball being bowled due to heavy rain. India will resume their first innings from 272/3 on Day 3.

Virat Kohli would be unhappy: Ashish Nehra on Indian skipper's dismissal in Boxing Day Test against SA

Day 2 of India-South Africa's first Test, in Centurion, was washed out without a ball being bowled. After winning the toss and electing to bat first, India ended the first day's play at 272-3 with opener KL Rahul being unbeaten on 122. While the visitors would have wanted to extend their dominance, rain played spoilsport as the entire day's play was hampered due to relentless rain showers.

Thus, Virat Kohli-led Indian team will have to accelerate after the morning session on Day 3 and hope for their bowlers to produce the goods with the ball to claim 20 wickets in the remainder of the series opener. India have stuck to their 5-bowlers strategy, featuring Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, R Ashwin and Shardul Thakur.

Talking about Siraj, former Indian pacer Ashish Nehra has lauded the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) -- whom he has seen grow from strength to strength in the recent past. Nehra lauded Siraj for being injury-free so far and hailed his hunger for success.&nbsp;

The 27-year-old Siraj has had staggering success in whites following his debut in the Boxing Day Test between India and Australia last year. The speedster has accounted for 33 scalps in 11 games, being one of the top-performers for the side in away series in Australia and England. Hence, Nehra had words of praise for him after rain played spoilsport on Day 2 of the Centurion Test.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/surprised-myself-with-how-calm-i-have-been-kl-rahul-reacts-to-his-truly-special-centurion-ton-vs-sa-440419">Surprised myself with how calm I have been: KL Rahul reacts to his 'truly special' Centurion ton vs SA</a>

"He was with me at RCB when I was the coach. He also was in the team when I was at SunRisers Hyderabad. I always knew that he had the skills. Talking about the skillset, it also depends on the player... how he hones his skills and fitness levels.&nbsp;

He had the pace, swing, and an athletic body too. We see many players doing the rounds of the NCA and visiting the physios after struggling with fitness. But Siraj wasn't that sort of a player. He stepped into the IPL after playing Ranji and has never looked back," Nehra said on Cricbuzz.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sa-1st-test-dravid-gives-a-pat-on-pujaras-back-to-uplift-his-spirits-after-golden-duck-watch-440395">Ind vs SA, 1st Test: Dravid gives a pat on Pujara's back to uplift his spirits after golden duck - WATCH</a>

He added, "Siraj has made the most of it. He's mentally strong as well and has that hunger to play. He used to get upset when his name was not there in the XI. When he was at RCB, he would eagerly wait to perform and get better with every match. That speaks volumes about his character."

Siraj surely has made a mark in his Test career and will like to perform in similar stead in the South Africa series. For the unversed, the No. 1 Test side India have a solid chance to win their maiden Test series in the African nation. Will Siraj-starrer India create history this time around in the rainbow nation?

Day 2 of India-South Africa's first Test, in Centurion, was washed out without a ball being bowled. After winning the toss and electing to bat first, India ended the first day's play at 272-3 with opener KL Rahul being unbeaten on 122.

Day 2 of India-South Africa's first Test, in Centurion, was washed out without a ball being bowled. After winning the toss and electing to bat first, India ended the first day's play at 272-3 with opener KL Rahul being unbeaten on 122. While the visitors would have wanted to extend their dominance, rain played spoilsport as the entire day's play was hampered due to relentless rain showers. Thus, Virat Kohli-led Indian team will have to accelerate after the morning session on Day 3 and hope for their bowlers to produce the goods with the ball to claim 20 wickets in the remainder of the series opener. India have stuck to their 5-bowlers strategy, featuring Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, R Ashwin and Shardul Thakur. Talking about Siraj, former Indian pacer Ashish Nehra has lauded the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) -- whom he has seen grow from strength to strength in the recent past. Nehra lauded Siraj for being injury-free so far and hailed his hunger for success. The 27-year-old Siraj has had staggering success in whites following his debut in the Boxing Day Test between India and Australia last year. The speedster has accounted for 33 scalps in 11 games, being one of the top-performers for the side in away series in Australia and England. Hence, Nehra had words of praise for him after rain played spoilsport on Day 2 of the Centurion Test. ALSO READ | Surprised myself with how calm I have been: KL Rahul reacts to his 'truly special' Centurion ton vs SA "He was with me at RCB when I was the coach. He also was in the team when I was at SunRisers Hyderabad. I always knew that he had the skills. Talking about the skillset, it also depends on the player... how he hones his skills and fitness levels. He had the pace, swing, and an athletic body too. We see many players doing the rounds of the NCA and visiting the physios after struggling with fitness. But Siraj wasn't that sort of a player. He stepped into the IPL after playing Ranji and has never looked back," Nehra said on Cricbuzz. ALSO READ | Ind vs SA, 1st Test: Dravid gives a pat on Pujara's back to uplift his spirits after golden duck - WATCH He added, "Siraj has made the most of it. He's mentally strong as well and has that hunger to play. He used to get upset when his name was not there in the XI. When he was at RCB, he would eagerly wait to perform and get better with every match. That speaks volumes about his character." Siraj surely has made a mark in his Test career and will like to perform in similar stead in the South Africa series. For the unversed, the No. 1 Test side India have a solid chance to win their maiden Test series in the African nation. Will Siraj-starrer India create history this time around in the rainbow nation?

He used to get upset when his name was not in the XI: Ashish Nehra heaps praise on young India pacer

Former India pacer Ashish Nehra recently gave his take on Ajinkya Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara's struggles ahead of India's Test series against South Africa. While Rahane's inconsistency has been a huge concern for India, Pujara's form has also dipped over the last couple of years. With intense competition for spots in the playing XI, there remains uncertainty over Rahane and Pujara's places in the playing XI ahead of the first Test against South Africa.

While Shreyas Iyer is in the reckoning after his fantastic debut in the recently-concluded Test series against New Zealand at home, Hanuma Vihari is also in contention to find a spot in the middle-order. While Nehra believes the senior Indian batters should be backed, he insisted Rahane will find it difficult to get into the XI.

While backing the senior batters to return to form, Nehra cited the example of captain Virat Kohli, who hasn't been at his best for a while now and said the team management can't drop Kohi just because of his rough patch.

“It's difficult undoubtedly. There have been some injuries but you have to find a solution. If you solely go by stats, even Kohli has been inconsistent for the past 1-1.5 years and that is why I think you cannot just rely on numbers. You can't say 'let's drop Kohli'. Even Pujara has not been in good form. But yes, Rahane is probably at the most risk,” said Nehra on Cricbuzz.

Rahane was India's stand-in captain for the first Test against New Zealand in Kohli's absence in their last series at home. However, he was replaced by Rohit Sharma as the vice-captain of the Test team ahead of the South Africa series due to his poor form. Nehra feels Rahane's chances will also depend on whether India decide&nbsp;to play an extra batter or not in the Boxing Day Test.

“In the previous series against New Zealand, Rahane was the captain in the first Test. When Virat came in the second, Rahane wasn't in the XI. So, whether you opt to play with 5 batters or 6 in the first Test against South Africa, it is difficult for Rahane to find a spot," said the former India pacer.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/explained-why-series-opener-between-india-south-africa-will-be-called-boxing-day-test-439678">Explained! Why series-opener between India-South Africa will be called Boxing Day Test?</a>

The track in Centurion is expected to be on the greener side and assist pacers in the series-opener that gets underway from December 26 (Sunday). It remains to be seen if India will be cautious in their approach and go with an extra batter or play just four frontline bowlers.

Former India pacer Ashish Nehra recently gave his take on Ajinkya Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara's struggles ahead of India's Test series against South Africa. While Rahane's inconsistency has been a huge concern for India, Pujara's form has also dipped over the last couple of years.

Former India pacer Ashish Nehra recently gave his take on Ajinkya Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara's struggles ahead of India's Test series against South Africa. While Rahane's inconsistency has been a huge concern for India, Pujara's form has also dipped over the last couple of years. With intense competition for spots in the playing XI, there remains uncertainty over Rahane and Pujara's places in the playing XI ahead of the first Test against South Africa. While Shreyas Iyer is in the reckoning after his fantastic debut in the recently-concluded Test series against New Zealand at home, Hanuma Vihari is also in contention to find a spot in the middle-order. While Nehra believes the senior Indian batters should be backed, he insisted Rahane will find it difficult to get into the XI. While backing the senior batters to return to form, Nehra cited the example of captain Virat Kohli, who hasn't been at his best for a while now and said the team management can't drop Kohi just because of his rough patch. “It's difficult undoubtedly. There have been some injuries but you have to find a solution. If you solely go by stats, even Kohli has been inconsistent for the past 1-1.5 years and that is why I think you cannot just rely on numbers. You can't say 'let's drop Kohli'. Even Pujara has not been in good form. But yes, Rahane is probably at the most risk,” said Nehra on Cricbuzz. Rahane was India's stand-in captain for the first Test against New Zealand in Kohli's absence in their last series at home. However, he was replaced by Rohit Sharma as the vice-captain of the Test team ahead of the South Africa series due to his poor form. Nehra feels Rahane's chances will also depend on whether India decide to play an extra batter or not in the Boxing Day Test. “In the previous series against New Zealand, Rahane was the captain in the first Test. When Virat came in the second, Rahane wasn't in the XI. So, whether you opt to play with 5 batters or 6 in the first Test against South Africa, it is difficult for Rahane to find a spot," said the former India pacer. Also Read: Explained! Why series-opener between India-South Africa will be called Boxing Day Test? The track in Centurion is expected to be on the greener side and assist pacers in the series-opener that gets underway from December 26 (Sunday). It remains to be seen if India will be cautious in their approach and go with an extra batter or play just four frontline bowlers.

'You can't say let's drop Kohli': Ashish Nehra on Pujara, Rahane's struggles ahead of South Africa series

Indian Premier League (IPL)'s newly-inducted Lucknow franchise has approached former India head coach Gary Kirsten to be their head coach ahead of the start of the new season in 2022. Kirsten had led India to an ODI World Cup triumph in 2011 and has vast experience in coaching having mentored a number of top teams around the world.

Kirsten had coached Delhi Capitals (DC) and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the IPL in the past but failed to inspire them to a title triumph. After two unsuccessful stints in the league, Kirsten might be motivated to embark on a new challenge with the Lucknow franchise which has been bought by the RPSG Group.

As per a report in Cricbuzz, the Lucknow franchise has not only approached Kirsten but also former India pacer Ashish Nehra. While Kirsten has been offered the post of head coach, Nehra has been approached for the role of a consultant. The final decision, however, is yet to be taken.

Lucknow and Ahmedabad will be the two new franchises set to make their debut in the league from next season as IPL becomes a ten-team tournament. RPSG Group made a staggering bid of&nbsp;INR 70.09 billion (Rs 7090 crore) to purchase the Lucknow franchise.

The two teams will get a fair shot at building their respective squads from scratch as the BCCI is all set to conduct a mega player auction ahead of the new season. The existing eight teams have been allowed a maximum of only four retentions and there will be no Right to Match (RTM) cards this time around.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/three-teams-that-flopped-in-t20-world-cup-2021-virat-kohli-co-headline-list-429594">Three teams that flopped in T20 World Cup 2021 -&nbsp;Virat Kohli &amp; Co. headline list</a>

The two new teams will also get a chance to pick a total of three players outside the auction once the existing eight teams have confirmed their retention list ahead of the auction. The new teams can pick a maximum of only two Indian players in their allotted three picks which can be made outside the auction.

&nbsp;

Indian Premier League (IPL)'s newly-inducted Lucknow franchise has approached former India head coach Gary Kirsten to be their head coach ahead of the start of the new season in 2022.

Indian Premier League (IPL)'s newly-inducted Lucknow franchise has approached former India head coach Gary Kirsten to be their head coach ahead of the start of the new season in 2022. Kirsten had led India to an ODI World Cup triumph in 2011 and has vast experience in coaching having mentored a number of top teams around the world. Kirsten had coached Delhi Capitals (DC) and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the IPL in the past but failed to inspire them to a title triumph. After two unsuccessful stints in the league, Kirsten might be motivated to embark on a new challenge with the Lucknow franchise which has been bought by the RPSG Group. As per a report in Cricbuzz, the Lucknow franchise has not only approached Kirsten but also former India pacer Ashish Nehra. While Kirsten has been offered the post of head coach, Nehra has been approached for the role of a consultant. The final decision, however, is yet to be taken. Lucknow and Ahmedabad will be the two new franchises set to make their debut in the league from next season as IPL becomes a ten-team tournament. RPSG Group made a staggering bid of INR 70.09 billion (Rs 7090 crore) to purchase the Lucknow franchise. The two teams will get a fair shot at building their respective squads from scratch as the BCCI is all set to conduct a mega player auction ahead of the new season. The existing eight teams have been allowed a maximum of only four retentions and there will be no Right to Match (RTM) cards this time around. Also Read: Three teams that flopped in T20 World Cup 2021 - Virat Kohli & Co. headline list The two new teams will also get a chance to pick a total of three players outside the auction once the existing eight teams have confirmed their retention list ahead of the auction. The new teams can pick a maximum of only two Indian players in their allotted three picks which can be made outside the auction.

Gary Kirsten, Ashish Nehra approached by Lucknow IPL franchise for coaching roles ahead of new season

Virat Kohli is all set to step down as Indian cricket team's captain from the T20I format post the conclusion of the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021. Kohli is leading the Men in Blue in his final T20 assignment as the captain of the side and will be playing the shortest format as a pure batter after the showpiece event. The team is also expected to undergo a major overhaul as far as T20Is are concerned after a poor show in the World Cup this year.

India lost their first two matches of the Super 12 in a row against Pakistan and New Zealand and are currently on the verge of getting eliminated from the tournament from Super 12 despite having won comprehensively against Afghanistan and Scotland in their last two matches. India's fate rests in the hands of Afghanistan, who will have to beat New Zealand in their last Super 12 encounter to keep India alive in the race for semi-finals.

While Kohli is set to step aside as a captain after the T20 World Cup, there have been a lot of names that have come up to replace him as the leader of Team India in the shortest format. While many experts have backed Rohit Sharma to be the next T20 captain of Team India, the likes of Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul among others have also emerged as captaincy contenders.

Former Indian pacer Ashish Nehra has named a surprise pick to succeed Kohli as the captain of the Indian team. He feels premier pacer Jasprit Bumrah can be an ideal candidate for captaincy since he is a regular member in the playing XI across all formats and is an important member of the squad.

"After Rohit Sharma, we are hearing the names of Rishabh Pant and KL Rahul [as contendors]. Rishabh Pant has travelled around the world but has also carried drinks and has even been left out from the team before. KL Rahul returned to Test cricket because Mayank Agarwal was injured... So Jasprit Bumrah can be an option too,"&nbsp;Nehra told Cricbuzz.

"As Ajay [Jadeja] said, he's sturdy, a certainty in the team, and is always in the XI for all formats. It's nowhere written in the rule book that fast bowlers can't be captains," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/explainer-what-india-new-zealand-afghanistan-need-to-do-to-qualify-for-t20-world-cup-2021-semi-finals-427196">Explainer - What India, NZ&nbsp;&amp; Afghanistan need to do to qualify for T20 World Cup 2021 semi-finals</a>

While Bumrah is one of the vital cogs of the Indian bowling line-up across formats, he is unlikely to be promoted as a captain anytime soon. Rohit appears to be the likely one to take over the batton from Kohli in T20Is keeping the T20 World Cup 2022 in mind.

&nbsp;

Virat Kohli is all set to step down as Indian cricket team's captain from the T20I format post the conclusion of the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021. Kohli is leading the Men in Blue in his final T20 assignment as the captain of the side and will be playing the shortest format as a pure batter after the showpiece event.

Virat Kohli is all set to step down as Indian cricket team's captain from the T20I format post the conclusion of the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021. Kohli is leading the Men in Blue in his final T20 assignment as the captain of the side and will be playing the shortest format as a pure batter after the showpiece event. The team is also expected to undergo a major overhaul as far as T20Is are concerned after a poor show in the World Cup this year. India lost their first two matches of the Super 12 in a row against Pakistan and New Zealand and are currently on the verge of getting eliminated from the tournament from Super 12 despite having won comprehensively against Afghanistan and Scotland in their last two matches. India's fate rests in the hands of Afghanistan, who will have to beat New Zealand in their last Super 12 encounter to keep India alive in the race for semi-finals. While Kohli is set to step aside as a captain after the T20 World Cup, there have been a lot of names that have come up to replace him as the leader of Team India in the shortest format. While many experts have backed Rohit Sharma to be the next T20 captain of Team India, the likes of Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul among others have also emerged as captaincy contenders. Former Indian pacer Ashish Nehra has named a surprise pick to succeed Kohli as the captain of the Indian team. He feels premier pacer Jasprit Bumrah can be an ideal candidate for captaincy since he is a regular member in the playing XI across all formats and is an important member of the squad. "After Rohit Sharma, we are hearing the names of Rishabh Pant and KL Rahul [as contendors]. Rishabh Pant has travelled around the world but has also carried drinks and has even been left out from the team before. KL Rahul returned to Test cricket because Mayank Agarwal was injured... So Jasprit Bumrah can be an option too," Nehra told Cricbuzz. "As Ajay [Jadeja] said, he's sturdy, a certainty in the team, and is always in the XI for all formats. It's nowhere written in the rule book that fast bowlers can't be captains," he added. Also Read: Explainer - What India, NZ & Afghanistan need to do to qualify for T20 World Cup 2021 semi-finals While Bumrah is one of the vital cogs of the Indian bowling line-up across formats, he is unlikely to be promoted as a captain anytime soon. Rohit appears to be the likely one to take over the batton from Kohli in T20Is keeping the T20 World Cup 2022 in mind.

'He is always in the XI': Ashish Nehra names surprise pick to replace Virat Kohli as India's T20I captain

Ahead of India vs Pakistan T20 World Cup match, which is scheduled for Sunday (October 24), former Indian pacer Ashish Nehra shared some treasured memories associated with the rivalry that he still remembers. He also revealed how an Indo-Pak match coined the nickname of legendary Sachin Tendulkar.&nbsp;

During a chat with Cricbuzz, Nehra narrated a fascinating story from a 2003 ICC World Cup game between arch-rivals India and Pakistan that India won by six wickets in Centurion, South Africa.&nbsp;

During the conversation, Nehra spoke in Hindi that can be loosely translated in English as: "When you talk about India vs Pakistan, we have seen many interesting clashes. For me, the most important... that I remember even today was the one in ICC World Cup 2003 in South Africa. Sachin Tendulkar was outstanding. With Sachin Rahul Dravid and Yuvraj Singh also played really well."&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hardik-pandya-opens-up-on-dream-of-playing-for-india-credits-his-father-for-his-success-422793">Hardik Pandya opens up on 'dream' of playing for India, credits his father for his success</a>

The former pacer said that match was interesting&nbsp;both on and off the field as he shared an incident when a new nickname for Tendulkar was coined. Nehra, during the chat, said, "When the team was returning in the bus, youngsters in the team started calling Sachin 'Paaji' after Harbhajan Singh cheerfully sang 'Paaji number 1' at the Centurion."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-aakash-chopra-reveals-big-concern-ahead-of-indias-high-octane-clash-against-arch-rivals-pakistan-422741">T20 WC: Aakash Chopra reveals 'big concern' ahead of India's high-octane clash against arch-rivals Pakistan</a>

The 42-year-old highlighted the gravitas of the match as it was the last clash of his "childhood heroes" Pakistani pace legends Waqar Younis and Wasim Akram. However, the result was in India's favour as Sachin Tendulkar scored 98 runs off 75 balls to hand the Men in Blue one of the famous wins against Pakistan in the World Cups.&nbsp;

The bilateral series between India and Pakistan has been suspended due to political reasons and previously, the arch-rivals met at the 2019 World Cup in England, where India won against Pakistan and maintained their unbeaten record in World Cups.

Ahead of India vs Pakistan T20 World Cup match, which is scheduled for Sunday (October 24), former Indian pacer Ashish Nehra shared some treasured memories associated with the rivalry that he still remembers.

Ahead of India vs Pakistan T20 World Cup match, which is scheduled for Sunday (October 24), former Indian pacer Ashish Nehra shared some treasured memories associated with the rivalry that he still remembers. He also revealed how an Indo-Pak match coined the nickname of legendary Sachin Tendulkar. During a chat with Cricbuzz, Nehra narrated a fascinating story from a 2003 ICC World Cup game between arch-rivals India and Pakistan that India won by six wickets in Centurion, South Africa. During the conversation, Nehra spoke in Hindi that can be loosely translated in English as: "When you talk about India vs Pakistan, we have seen many interesting clashes. For me, the most important... that I remember even today was the one in ICC World Cup 2003 in South Africa. Sachin Tendulkar was outstanding. With Sachin Rahul Dravid and Yuvraj Singh also played really well." ALSO READ | Hardik Pandya opens up on 'dream' of playing for India, credits his father for his success The former pacer said that match was interesting both on and off the field as he shared an incident when a new nickname for Tendulkar was coined. Nehra, during the chat, said, "When the team was returning in the bus, youngsters in the team started calling Sachin 'Paaji' after Harbhajan Singh cheerfully sang 'Paaji number 1' at the Centurion." ALSO READ | T20 WC: Aakash Chopra reveals 'big concern' ahead of India's high-octane clash against arch-rivals Pakistan The 42-year-old highlighted the gravitas of the match as it was the last clash of his "childhood heroes" Pakistani pace legends Waqar Younis and Wasim Akram. However, the result was in India's favour as Sachin Tendulkar scored 98 runs off 75 balls to hand the Men in Blue one of the famous wins against Pakistan in the World Cups. The bilateral series between India and Pakistan has been suspended due to political reasons and previously, the arch-rivals met at the 2019 World Cup in England, where India won against Pakistan and maintained their unbeaten record in World Cups.

Ashish Nehra reveals how an India vs Pakistan World Cup match coined Sachin Tendulkar's nickname

Virat Kohli-led India won the fourth and penultimate Test versus England, at The Oval, London, by 157 runs on Day 5 on Monday (September 6). As the final day's play had all three results possible, with India needing 10 wickets whereas England needed 291 more in pursuit of 368, Kohli &amp; Co. fought hard and won the game in the final session.

Following the win, BCCI President Sourav Ganguly was all praise for Kohli-led Indian team. He took to his Twitter handle to laud the national side and wrote, "Great show. The skill is the difference but the biggest difference is the absorbing power of pressure. Indian cricket is far ahead than the rest @BCCI."

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Great show ..The skill is the difference but the biggest difference is the absorbing power of pressure..indian cricket is far ahead then the rest <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BCCI</a>
— Sourav Ganguly (@SGanguly99) <a href="https://twitter.com/SGanguly99/status/1434915123232067585?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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However, Ganguly's remark haven't received thumbs up by some of the former cricketers. After England's former captain Michael Vaughan, former Indian pacer Ashish Nehra also expressed his disagreement with his former captain Ganguly's comments. “You spoke about Sourav Ganguly’s tweet that they have absorbed pressure very well but the Indian team way ahead of the rest. There, I am not in 100% agreement,” said Nehra on Sony Sports.

“If you go just by the numbers, the New Zealand team has defeated you when you talk about the WTC. Just like it is his thinking, I believe that they are ahead but along with them, when you talk about Test cricket for the last one to one-and-a-half years, the Indian and New Zealand team are neck to neck,” he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/michael-vaughan-reacts-as-bcci-chief-sourav-ganguly-feels-team-india-is-far-ahead-than-rest-after-beating-england-411300">Michael Vaughan reacts as BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly feels Team India 'is far ahead than rest' after beating England</a>

If one looks at the ICC rankings, India isn't the No. 1 side in any format. Kohli &amp; Co. occupy the second spot in Test and T20I format&nbsp;whereas find themselves at the fourth position in ODIs. However, the Indian team has been one of the best travellers among all teams in the purest format.

Kohli-led India will now aim to win the fifth and final Test versus England and claim the series 3-1; their first-ever on English soil since 2007.

Virat Kohli-led India won the fourth and penultimate Test versus England, at The Oval, London, by 157 runs on Day 5 on Monday (September 6). As the final day's play had all three results possible, with India needing 10 wickets whereas England needed 291 more in pursuit of 368, Kohli & Co.

Virat Kohli-led India won the fourth and penultimate Test versus England, at The Oval, London, by 157 runs on Day 5 on Monday (September 6). As the final day's play had all three results possible, with India needing 10 wickets whereas England needed 291 more in pursuit of 368, Kohli & Co. fought hard and won the game in the final session. Following the win, BCCI President Sourav Ganguly was all praise for Kohli-led Indian team. He took to his Twitter handle to laud the national side and wrote, "Great show. The skill is the difference but the biggest difference is the absorbing power of pressure. Indian cricket is far ahead than the rest @BCCI." Great show ..The skill is the difference but the biggest difference is the absorbing power of pressure..indian cricket is far ahead then the rest @BCCI — Sourav Ganguly (@SGanguly99) September 6, 2021 × However, Ganguly's remark haven't received thumbs up by some of the former cricketers. After England's former captain Michael Vaughan, former Indian pacer Ashish Nehra also expressed his disagreement with his former captain Ganguly's comments. “You spoke about Sourav Ganguly’s tweet that they have absorbed pressure very well but the Indian team way ahead of the rest. There, I am not in 100% agreement,” said Nehra on Sony Sports. “If you go just by the numbers, the New Zealand team has defeated you when you talk about the WTC. Just like it is his thinking, I believe that they are ahead but along with them, when you talk about Test cricket for the last one to one-and-a-half years, the Indian and New Zealand team are neck to neck,” he added. ALSO READ | Michael Vaughan reacts as BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly feels Team India 'is far ahead than rest' after beating England If one looks at the ICC rankings, India isn't the No. 1 side in any format. Kohli & Co. occupy the second spot in Test and T20I format whereas find themselves at the fourth position in ODIs. However, the Indian team has been one of the best travellers among all teams in the purest format. Kohli-led India will now aim to win the fifth and final Test versus England and claim the series 3-1; their first-ever on English soil since 2007.

After Michael Vaughan, Ashish Nehra in disagreement with Sourav Ganguly following his 'India is far ahead than rest' remark

Veteran Indian pacer Ishant Sharma had an underwhelming performance at the Headingly. The 32-year-old was the only pacer to have gone wicketless during the third Test between India and England.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-or-england-aakash-chopra-makes-bold-claim-predicts-winner-of-4th-test-409862" hreflang="en">India or England? Aakash Chopra makes bold claim, predicts winner of 4th Test</a>

He received criticism after conceding 92 runs in 22 overs at an economy rate of 4.18. Now, former India pacer Ashish Nehra said that he was surprised by the flak Sharma was receiving after just one poor match.&nbsp;

“It will be too harsh on Ishant Sharma if we judge and discuss his place in the side after just one Test match. Somebody asked me yesterday, was Headingley Test Ishant Sharma’s last? I was very surprised that somebody even asked me that question,” Nehra said during a select media interaction organised by Sony Sports Network ahead of the fourth Test match at The Oval starting on Thursday.

“You can’t judge someone like an Ishant Sharma on one game performance. Yes, we have good four-five bowlers and there is a competition there but you don’t want to see a different bowler in every Test match,” he added.

Nehra went on to say that India did not lose the Headingly Test because of Ishant Sharma, however, agreed that the pacer was not at his best.&nbsp;

“Ishant is someone who bowls a no-ball here and there so do Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja. Yes, according to me, Ishant Sharma wasn’t looking in the best of the rhythms. We lost that test match so we are discussing that more. Ishant’s rhythm was not the reason we lost it. But don’t forget he missed the first game because of a niggle. In the second, it took him a while but because of experience of playing more than 100 Tests, he got back to his groove quickly and had a good Lord’s Test,” Nehra added.

“Because of conditions in Oval, we might Ashwin get a game in place of a fast bowler, whether it is in place of Ishant or Siraj, only time will tell,” Nehra said.

Veteran Indian pacer Ishant Sharma had an underwhelming performance at the Headingly. The 32-year-old was the only pacer to have gone wicketless during the third Test between India and England.

Veteran Indian pacer Ishant Sharma had an underwhelming performance at the Headingly. The 32-year-old was the only pacer to have gone wicketless during the third Test between India and England. ALSO READ: India or England? Aakash Chopra makes bold claim, predicts winner of 4th Test He received criticism after conceding 92 runs in 22 overs at an economy rate of 4.18. Now, former India pacer Ashish Nehra said that he was surprised by the flak Sharma was receiving after just one poor match. “It will be too harsh on Ishant Sharma if we judge and discuss his place in the side after just one Test match. Somebody asked me yesterday, was Headingley Test Ishant Sharma’s last? I was very surprised that somebody even asked me that question,” Nehra said during a select media interaction organised by Sony Sports Network ahead of the fourth Test match at The Oval starting on Thursday. “You can’t judge someone like an Ishant Sharma on one game performance. Yes, we have good four-five bowlers and there is a competition there but you don’t want to see a different bowler in every Test match,” he added. Nehra went on to say that India did not lose the Headingly Test because of Ishant Sharma, however, agreed that the pacer was not at his best. “Ishant is someone who bowls a no-ball here and there so do Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja. Yes, according to me, Ishant Sharma wasn’t looking in the best of the rhythms. We lost that test match so we are discussing that more. Ishant’s rhythm was not the reason we lost it. But don’t forget he missed the first game because of a niggle. In the second, it took him a while but because of experience of playing more than 100 Tests, he got back to his groove quickly and had a good Lord’s Test,” Nehra added. “Because of conditions in Oval, we might Ashwin get a game in place of a fast bowler, whether it is in place of Ishant or Siraj, only time will tell,” Nehra said.

'Ishant’s rhythm was not the reason we lost', says Ashish Nehra

There has been criticism for Indian captain Virat Kohli from all corners due to his struggles in the ongoing India-England Tests, in the United Kingdom. So far, Kohli has scores of 0, DNB, 42, 20, 7 and 55. While he did score a half-century in the final innings of the third Test, where India lost by an innings and 76 runs, the 32-year-old didn't look at his very best versus the second new ball on Day 4.

Kohli was troubled by the likes of James Anderson and Ollie Robinson as the former remains unsure of how to deal with the ball when pitched on the fourth-fifth stump-line. Ahead of the fourth and penultimate Test, which begins from September 2 at Kennington Oval, London, former India pacer Ashish Nehra has come forward and supported Kohli.

Speaking to reporters in a media interaction organised by Sony, Nehra opined, "First things first, somebody like Virat Kohli, he knows his game, that’s why he is here. He has been successful in the same conditions. Everybody knows when you talk about English conditions; they are not easy. You just spoke about Sunil Gavaskar (urging Kohli to learn from Tendulkar and avoid the shot that is getting him out every time)."&nbsp;

Taking cognisance of recent Kohli's struggles, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar had suggested that the Indian skipper should take notes from Sachin Tendulkar and have a quick chat with him.&nbsp;"Yes, if somebody like Virat Kohli feels he needs to do that, I am sure, he will definitely try to do that. But here, you also correctly mentioned that Virat Kohli got out in the slips, but not while driving all the time. He also got out defending. So it’s not like the ball is not there to drive, yet he is going for a cover drive,” Nehra added.&nbsp;

"Our bowlers also did that in one game. But I don’t think Virat Kohli needs to change his technique overnight. In between a series, it is more about adjustment of your game and being mentally ready. Don’t think there is any problem with Virat Kohli when it comes to mental toughness," he concluded.

Kohli's struggles, however, has been a long one. His last international ton came in late 2019. He averaged only 19.33 in Tests in 2020 whereas currently he averages 27.15 in the format in the ongoing calendar year. The Indian captain will be desperate to score a daddy hundred in the remaining two games and lead India to a series win over England in their own backyard.

There has been criticism for Indian captain Virat Kohli from all corners due to his struggles in the ongoing India-England Tests, in the United Kingdom. So far, Kohli has scores of 0, DNB, 42, 20, 7 and 55.

There has been criticism for Indian captain Virat Kohli from all corners due to his struggles in the ongoing India-England Tests, in the United Kingdom. So far, Kohli has scores of 0, DNB, 42, 20, 7 and 55. While he did score a half-century in the final innings of the third Test, where India lost by an innings and 76 runs, the 32-year-old didn't look at his very best versus the second new ball on Day 4. Kohli was troubled by the likes of James Anderson and Ollie Robinson as the former remains unsure of how to deal with the ball when pitched on the fourth-fifth stump-line. Ahead of the fourth and penultimate Test, which begins from September 2 at Kennington Oval, London, former India pacer Ashish Nehra has come forward and supported Kohli. Speaking to reporters in a media interaction organised by Sony, Nehra opined, "First things first, somebody like Virat Kohli, he knows his game, that’s why he is here. He has been successful in the same conditions. Everybody knows when you talk about English conditions; they are not easy. You just spoke about Sunil Gavaskar (urging Kohli to learn from Tendulkar and avoid the shot that is getting him out every time)." Taking cognisance of recent Kohli's struggles, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar had suggested that the Indian skipper should take notes from Sachin Tendulkar and have a quick chat with him. "Yes, if somebody like Virat Kohli feels he needs to do that, I am sure, he will definitely try to do that. But here, you also correctly mentioned that Virat Kohli got out in the slips, but not while driving all the time. He also got out defending. So it’s not like the ball is not there to drive, yet he is going for a cover drive,” Nehra added. "Our bowlers also did that in one game. But I don’t think Virat Kohli needs to change his technique overnight. In between a series, it is more about adjustment of your game and being mentally ready. Don’t think there is any problem with Virat Kohli when it comes to mental toughness," he concluded. Kohli's struggles, however, has been a long one. His last international ton came in late 2019. He averaged only 19.33 in Tests in 2020 whereas currently he averages 27.15 in the format in the ongoing calendar year. The Indian captain will be desperate to score a daddy hundred in the remaining two games and lead India to a series win over England in their own backyard.

Don’t think Virat Kohli needs to change his technique overnight: Ashish Nehra on Indian captain's struggles in England

Rishabh Pant was one of India's best batsman in the inaugural ICC World Test Championship (WTC) cycle. However, the left-hander hasn't done anything extra ordinary in the second cycle, which commenced with the start of the India-England Test series, in the United Kingdom, in early August.

Pant so far has only 87 runs in 5 innings and hasn't played any impactful knock despite getting starts in few outings. Ahead of the fourth and penultimate Test, many have shown concerns over his form and mode of dismissals. While Virat Kohli-led Indian team management wants to back his fearless style of play, they want him to also be aware of the match situation.

Ahead of the fourth and penultimate Test, which gets underway from September 2 (Thursday) at Kennington Oval, London, former India pacer Ashish Nehra defended Pant during an online media interaction organised by Sony and said, "Somebody like Pant or any international cricketer needs to change their game from time to time but, they should not forget their strengths also. If he gets out while defending or hitting a shot, he is the same Rishabh Pant who won the Test match at the Gabba."

He further opined, "His way of batting and his style will always be a discussion point in Test cricket. Adam Gilchrist was also quite similar. He knew what his style was and backed that. Have to give him time. You’re talking about a guy who’s scored a hundred in Australia and England in tough conditions. When you talk about a wicketkeeper batsman he has already done wonders."

Though Pant seems certain to play the remainder of the two Tests in England, he will like to make the most of the opportunities and slam a daddy hundred going forward to stage India's recovery in the series.&nbsp;

After the drawn series opener and India's Lord's Test win, the visitors lost the third Test by an innings and 76 runs as the series is levelled at 1-1. Thus, both India and England will come hard at each other in the penultimate Test in order to take an unassailable 2-1 lead.

Rishabh Pant was one of India's best batsman in the inaugural ICC World Test Championship (WTC) cycle. However, the left-hander hasn't done anything extra ordinary in the second cycle, which commenced with the start of the India-England Test series, in the United Kingdom, in early August.

Rishabh Pant was one of India's best batsman in the inaugural ICC World Test Championship (WTC) cycle. However, the left-hander hasn't done anything extra ordinary in the second cycle, which commenced with the start of the India-England Test series, in the United Kingdom, in early August. Pant so far has only 87 runs in 5 innings and hasn't played any impactful knock despite getting starts in few outings. Ahead of the fourth and penultimate Test, many have shown concerns over his form and mode of dismissals. While Virat Kohli-led Indian team management wants to back his fearless style of play, they want him to also be aware of the match situation. Ahead of the fourth and penultimate Test, which gets underway from September 2 (Thursday) at Kennington Oval, London, former India pacer Ashish Nehra defended Pant during an online media interaction organised by Sony and said, "Somebody like Pant or any international cricketer needs to change their game from time to time but, they should not forget their strengths also. If he gets out while defending or hitting a shot, he is the same Rishabh Pant who won the Test match at the Gabba." He further opined, "His way of batting and his style will always be a discussion point in Test cricket. Adam Gilchrist was also quite similar. He knew what his style was and backed that. Have to give him time. You’re talking about a guy who’s scored a hundred in Australia and England in tough conditions. When you talk about a wicketkeeper batsman he has already done wonders." Though Pant seems certain to play the remainder of the two Tests in England, he will like to make the most of the opportunities and slam a daddy hundred going forward to stage India's recovery in the series. After the drawn series opener and India's Lord's Test win, the visitors lost the third Test by an innings and 76 runs as the series is levelled at 1-1. Thus, both India and England will come hard at each other in the penultimate Test in order to take an unassailable 2-1 lead.

Rishabh Pant's batting style similar to Adam Gilchrist, will be a discussion point always, says Ashish Nehra

Former India pacer Ashish Nehra feels if opening batsman Rohit Sharma has a good England tour, the chances of India winning the series against the Three Lions would increase.

India and England will lock horns in a five-match Test series beginning Wednesday at Trent Bridge, Nottingham. The series will mark the start of the second cycle of the World Test Championship.

Mayank Agarwal has been ruled out of the first Test due to a concussion. Shubman Gill was ruled out earlier, and Nehra believes that KL Rahul should be given a go as the opening partner to Rohit Sharma.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-mayank-agarwal-ruled-out-of-first-test-against-england-402442" hreflang="en">Cricket: Mayank Agarwal ruled out of first Test against England</a>

"The team management earlier said that we are looking at KL Rahul in the middle order. But see, I have seen KL Rahul as an opener in white-ball format. Before Hanuma Vihari, why not KL Rahul? Although I already feel that we have too many people floating around the opening slot, I hope Rohit plays all Tests. If I had to take chance, I would rather go in with KL Rahul as an opener," said Nehra during a virtual press conference organised by a media outlet.&nbsp;

"I really hope Rohit Sharma has a good England tour. If he has a good tour, then we as a team, our chances will be much better. If you can start well, it will keep a strong foundation," he added.

When asked whether Mohammed Siraj should be given a go in the first Test, Nehra said: "Yes, Mohammed Siraj is waiting in the wings but he has to wait for his turn. Everybody knows that Siraj is a very skillful bowler but here you are talking about a guy like Jasprit Bumrah who has done really well in the last five-six years since his arrival. You have to start with Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, and Ishant Sharma."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/engvsind-cricket-is-secondary-just-want-my-friend-to-be-okay-says-joe-root-on-ben-stokes-402503" hreflang="en">ENGvsIND: Cricket is secondary, just want my friend to be okay, says Joe Root on Ben Stokes</a>

"If you want a fourth fast bowler, we are not there, the captain, coach, and team management can take a call based on who has been bowling well. Whether you want to go with Umesh Yadav or you want to play Siraj. But if you are playing three seamers then you will start with Bumrah, Shami, and Ishant unless there is an injury to any of them," he added.

Nehra also said that he does not agree with the concept that every bowler needs to be able to swing the ball in England to get success. "I don`t agree that you need only swing bowlers in England. Look at somebody like Stuart Broad. Even Jofra Archer is not a swing bowler. But they are England`s main weapons, so a lot depends on how you bowl and it`s not like Bumrah or Shami can`t swing the ball or they need one particular surface to achieve results," said Nehra.

Answering a question of whether India has the best possible opportunity to defeat England in England with Ben Stokes opting out of the series, Nehra said: "See, you cannot say this is the best opportunity. In 2007, India won 1-0 when Rahul Dravid was the captain, but you should not think of it like a now or never situation. England has resources, new players are coming in and they are going through a transition. Ben Stokes is not there, but Buttler is there. You are talking about a team sport, Stokes is an all-rounder, but that can happen to any team. India has to play really well to defeat England in England."

When asked what sort of combination India should opt for in the series against England, Nehra said: "It all depends on the surface you are playing. When you talk about three-four seamers, these discussions just happen when you are playing in England, Australia, South Africa, or New Zealand. There is more life on the pitches, I agree but it is not like there is swing available on every pitch you play."

India's tour of England will be live on SONY SIX channels from 3.30 pm IST on August 4.&nbsp;

Former India pacer Ashish Nehra feels if opening batsman Rohit Sharma has a good England tour, the chances of India winning the series against the Three Lions would increase.

Former India pacer Ashish Nehra feels if opening batsman Rohit Sharma has a good England tour, the chances of India winning the series against the Three Lions would increase. India and England will lock horns in a five-match Test series beginning Wednesday at Trent Bridge, Nottingham. The series will mark the start of the second cycle of the World Test Championship. Mayank Agarwal has been ruled out of the first Test due to a concussion. Shubman Gill was ruled out earlier, and Nehra believes that KL Rahul should be given a go as the opening partner to Rohit Sharma. ALSO READ | Cricket: Mayank Agarwal ruled out of first Test against England "The team management earlier said that we are looking at KL Rahul in the middle order. But see, I have seen KL Rahul as an opener in white-ball format. Before Hanuma Vihari, why not KL Rahul? Although I already feel that we have too many people floating around the opening slot, I hope Rohit plays all Tests. If I had to take chance, I would rather go in with KL Rahul as an opener," said Nehra during a virtual press conference organised by a media outlet. "I really hope Rohit Sharma has a good England tour. If he has a good tour, then we as a team, our chances will be much better. If you can start well, it will keep a strong foundation," he added. When asked whether Mohammed Siraj should be given a go in the first Test, Nehra said: "Yes, Mohammed Siraj is waiting in the wings but he has to wait for his turn. Everybody knows that Siraj is a very skillful bowler but here you are talking about a guy like Jasprit Bumrah who has done really well in the last five-six years since his arrival. You have to start with Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, and Ishant Sharma." ALSO READ: ENGvsIND: Cricket is secondary, just want my friend to be okay, says Joe Root on Ben Stokes "If you want a fourth fast bowler, we are not there, the captain, coach, and team management can take a call based on who has been bowling well. Whether you want to go with Umesh Yadav or you want to play Siraj. But if you are playing three seamers then you will start with Bumrah, Shami, and Ishant unless there is an injury to any of them," he added. Nehra also said that he does not agree with the concept that every bowler needs to be able to swing the ball in England to get success. "I don`t agree that you need only swing bowlers in England. Look at somebody like Stuart Broad. Even Jofra Archer is not a swing bowler. But they are England`s main weapons, so a lot depends on how you bowl and it`s not like Bumrah or Shami can`t swing the ball or they need one particular surface to achieve results," said Nehra. Answering a question of whether India has the best possible opportunity to defeat England in England with Ben Stokes opting out of the series, Nehra said: "See, you cannot say this is the best opportunity. In 2007, India won 1-0 when Rahul Dravid was the captain, but you should not think of it like a now or never situation. England has resources, new players are coming in and they are going through a transition. Ben Stokes is not there, but Buttler is there. You are talking about a team sport, Stokes is an all-rounder, but that can happen to any team. India has to play really well to defeat England in England." When asked what sort of combination India should opt for in the series against England, Nehra said: "It all depends on the surface you are playing. When you talk about three-four seamers, these discussions just happen when you are playing in England, Australia, South Africa, or New Zealand. There is more life on the pitches, I agree but it is not like there is swing available on every pitch you play." India's tour of England will be live on SONY SIX channels from 3.30 pm IST on August 4.

ENGvsIND: If Rohit Sharma has a good tour, India's chances of winning will be more, says Ashish Nehra

Former Indian pacer Ashish Nehra feels that opener Prithvi Shaw was badly treated by Team India and his IPL franchise Delhi Capitals last year and said that he always back players like Shaw and Rahane in the T20 format.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/opener-prithvi-shaw-asked-to-lose-weight-before-being-considered-for-team-india-reports-383686" hreflang="en">Opener Prithvi Shaw asked to lose weight before being considered for Team India: Reports</a>

Shaw was dropped from the Indian team after a poor show in the Test series against Australia and got replaced by Shubman Gill, who played defining knocks. The Mumbai-based batsman scored 0 and 2 in the first Test in Adelaide.&nbsp;

"It's one thing that India went on to win the series (Border-Gavaskar trophy) but even then, I felt that he (Prithvi Shaw) shouldn't have been benched after one Test match. Even during last year's IPL, I felt he shouldn't have been dropped. He played a few good innings but couldn't score runs. But I will always back a player who has more runs than Rahane, when you talk of T20 cricket. I'm not saying that Rahane is not a good player, but in T20 cricket you need explosive players like Shaw, Pant, Stoinis and Hetmyer," Nehra said in an interaction with Cricbuzz.

"As far as technique is concerned, for any player it is difficult to adjust. Even during the Adelaide Test, he wasn't a player who had a lot of experience or played 30-40 Test matches. We were talking about a youngster. To drop him on the basis of one Test match was tough," Nehra added.

Indian opener Prithvi Shaw has been left out of the squad in India's Test side for the World Test Championship finals and the tour of England, despite bouncing back to form after great knocks in the domestic season and the Indian Premier League.&nbsp;

Former Indian pacer Ashish Nehra feels that opener Prithvi Shaw was badly treated by Team India and his IPL franchise Delhi Capitals last year and said that he always back players like Shaw and Rahane in the T20 format.

Former Indian pacer Ashish Nehra feels that opener Prithvi Shaw was badly treated by Team India and his IPL franchise Delhi Capitals last year and said that he always back players like Shaw and Rahane in the T20 format. ALSO READ: Opener Prithvi Shaw asked to lose weight before being considered for Team India: Reports Shaw was dropped from the Indian team after a poor show in the Test series against Australia and got replaced by Shubman Gill, who played defining knocks. The Mumbai-based batsman scored 0 and 2 in the first Test in Adelaide. "It's one thing that India went on to win the series (Border-Gavaskar trophy) but even then, I felt that he (Prithvi Shaw) shouldn't have been benched after one Test match. Even during last year's IPL, I felt he shouldn't have been dropped. He played a few good innings but couldn't score runs. But I will always back a player who has more runs than Rahane, when you talk of T20 cricket. I'm not saying that Rahane is not a good player, but in T20 cricket you need explosive players like Shaw, Pant, Stoinis and Hetmyer," Nehra said in an interaction with Cricbuzz. "As far as technique is concerned, for any player it is difficult to adjust. Even during the Adelaide Test, he wasn't a player who had a lot of experience or played 30-40 Test matches. We were talking about a youngster. To drop him on the basis of one Test match was tough," Nehra added. Indian opener Prithvi Shaw has been left out of the squad in India's Test side for the World Test Championship finals and the tour of England, despite bouncing back to form after great knocks in the domestic season and the Indian Premier League.

Ashish Nehra feels Prithvi Shaw was poorly treated by Indian team and Delhi Capitals last year

Harshal Patel began the Indian Premier League 2021 with splendid bowling exhibitions as&nbsp;he picked 9 wickets in 3 games in Chennai at an amazing average of 7.67.

Nonetheless, from that point forward he has spilled runs in the death vigorously in Mumbai and Ahmedabad, including yielding 37 runs against Chennai Super Kings, and 22 against Punjab Kings in the last overs of the innings – RCB lost the two matches as the momentum moved towards the resistance.

His last four bowling figures read 3/47, 3/51, 2/37, and 0/53. Ashish Nehra thinks that Harshal Patel's bowling was successful for the lethargic and dull contributes Chennai and that he doesn't have different capacities which any semblance of Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami need to bowl well on batting-accommodating surfaces.

“When a bowler bowls at the death, he will go for runs. Harshal Patel, while playing at Chennai was sensational, as the conditions were conducive. But he does not possess the ability of the likes of Bumrah or Shami. This is where RCB have to keep changing their bowlers for death,” Ashish Nehra told Cricbuzz.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/prithvi-shaw-showed-lot-of-courage-against-kolkata-knight-riders-says-shikhar-dhawan-381962" hreflang="en">Prithvi Shaw showed lot of courage against Kolkata Knight Riders, says Shikhar Dhawan</a>

<h2>RCB need to look at Kyle Jamieson and Mohammad Siraj for that duty: Ashish Nehra</h2>

In spite of the fact that Harshal Patel actually stays the purple cap holder presently, Ashish Nehra recommends RCB turn towards Kyle Jamieson, who produces additional bob with his stature, and Mohammed Siraj, who has been sublime at the two finishes of the innings with the ball.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/meet-the-venkaboys-after-dravids-anger-cricketing-legends-in-a-boy-band-wins-over-internet-381961" hreflang="en">'Meet the Venkaboys': After Dravid's anger, Cricketing legends in a boy-band wins over internet</a>

Though Patel still remains the purple cap holder currently, Ashish Nehra suggests RCB turn towards Kyle Jamieson, who generates extra bounce with his height, and Mohammed Siraj, who has been superb at both ends of the innings with the ball.

Ashish Nehra, a former bowling coach at RCB, likewise called attention to that however Patel is their assigned death bowler; notwithstanding, Virat Kohli neglected to use Mohammed Siraj and Kyle Jamieson against Punjab Kings as the two pacers bowled three overs each.

“When in a score of 170-180, a bowler is giving away 53 runs in his quota of overs, that too twice, then there is something wrong. RCB need to look at someone like Kyle Jamieson and Mohammad Siraj for that duty. In the match against PBKS, both of them just bowled three overs each. This is where Virat Kohli has to do some thinking" - he added.

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Harshal Patel began the Indian Premier League 2021 with splendid bowling exhibitions as he picked 9 wickets in 3 games in Chennai at an amazing average of 7.67. Nonetheless, from that point forward he has spilled runs in the death vigorously in Mumbai and Ahmedabad, including yielding 37 runs against Chennai Super Kings, and 22 against Punjab Kings in the last overs of the innings – RCB lost the two matches as the momentum moved towards the resistance.

Harshal Patel began the Indian Premier League 2021 with splendid bowling exhibitions as he picked 9 wickets in 3 games in Chennai at an amazing average of 7.67. Nonetheless, from that point forward he has spilled runs in the death vigorously in Mumbai and Ahmedabad, including yielding 37 runs against Chennai Super Kings, and 22 against Punjab Kings in the last overs of the innings – RCB lost the two matches as the momentum moved towards the resistance. His last four bowling figures read 3/47, 3/51, 2/37, and 0/53. Ashish Nehra thinks that Harshal Patel's bowling was successful for the lethargic and dull contributes Chennai and that he doesn't have different capacities which any semblance of Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami need to bowl well on batting-accommodating surfaces. “When a bowler bowls at the death, he will go for runs. Harshal Patel, while playing at Chennai was sensational, as the conditions were conducive. But he does not possess the ability of the likes of Bumrah or Shami. This is where RCB have to keep changing their bowlers for death,” Ashish Nehra told Cricbuzz. ALSO READ: Prithvi Shaw showed lot of courage against Kolkata Knight Riders, says Shikhar Dhawan RCB need to look at Kyle Jamieson and Mohammad Siraj for that duty: Ashish Nehra In spite of the fact that Harshal Patel actually stays the purple cap holder presently, Ashish Nehra recommends RCB turn towards Kyle Jamieson, who produces additional bob with his stature, and Mohammed Siraj, who has been sublime at the two finishes of the innings with the ball. ALSO READ: 'Meet the Venkaboys': After Dravid's anger, Cricketing legends in a boy-band wins over internet Though Patel still remains the purple cap holder currently, Ashish Nehra suggests RCB turn towards Kyle Jamieson, who generates extra bounce with his height, and Mohammed Siraj, who has been superb at both ends of the innings with the ball. Ashish Nehra, a former bowling coach at RCB, likewise called attention to that however Patel is their assigned death bowler; notwithstanding, Virat Kohli neglected to use Mohammed Siraj and Kyle Jamieson against Punjab Kings as the two pacers bowled three overs each. “When in a score of 170-180, a bowler is giving away 53 runs in his quota of overs, that too twice, then there is something wrong. RCB need to look at someone like Kyle Jamieson and Mohammad Siraj for that duty. In the match against PBKS, both of them just bowled three overs each. This is where Virat Kohli has to do some thinking" - he added.

'Virat Kohli has to do some thinking': Ashish Nehra unhappy with Harshal Patel leaking runs at death for RCB

Jasprit Bumrah has led Team India's bowling attack for some time now. The pacer's ability to choke the batsmen in death overs has earned him a world-class reputation. However, former Indian pacer Ashish Nehra feels that there is another Indian bowler who is better than Bumrah in terms of 'skills'.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/didnt-know-how-to-face-my-teammates-andre-russell-on-staircase-moment-after-dismissal-vs-csk-379866" hreflang="en">Didn't know how to face my teammates: Andre Russell on staircase moment after dismissal vs CSK</a>

Ashish Nehra feels Mohammed Siraj has more skills than Bumrah. "When you talk about skill, this has been my thinking in the last three-fours years. When it comes to bowlers, everyone talks about Jasprit Bumrah being right up there. But skill wise, I don't think Siraj is behind Bumrah, and in all formats," Nehra said in a video on Cricbuzz.

"There was talk about a couple of years ago that he used to pick up 5-6 wickets in every match for India A with the red ball, and I've always believed that a good red-ball bowler, a Test match bowler has a greater chance of succeeding as a white-ball bowler."

"There are some bowlers whom you include only for T20s, for white-ball matches. So In think Siraj is a very good all-format bowler. There is no shortage skill, he has all type of variations. I would in fact say that skill wise, he is even ahead of Bumrah, if you talk of variations," Nehra explained.

"He has a different slower one, there is no lack of speed, he can move the new ball. He needs to keep his fitness and sharpen his mind. If he can do these two things well, sky is the limit."

Mohammed Siraj has been in some form since the Australian tour and is one of the successful bowlers in the ongoing IPL.&nbsp;

Jasprit Bumrah has led Team India's bowling attack for some time now. The pacer's ability to choke the batsmen in death overs has earned him a world-class reputation.

Jasprit Bumrah has led Team India's bowling attack for some time now. The pacer's ability to choke the batsmen in death overs has earned him a world-class reputation. However, former Indian pacer Ashish Nehra feels that there is another Indian bowler who is better than Bumrah in terms of 'skills'. ALSO READ: Didn't know how to face my teammates: Andre Russell on staircase moment after dismissal vs CSK Ashish Nehra feels Mohammed Siraj has more skills than Bumrah. "When you talk about skill, this has been my thinking in the last three-fours years. When it comes to bowlers, everyone talks about Jasprit Bumrah being right up there. But skill wise, I don't think Siraj is behind Bumrah, and in all formats," Nehra said in a video on Cricbuzz. "There was talk about a couple of years ago that he used to pick up 5-6 wickets in every match for India A with the red ball, and I've always believed that a good red-ball bowler, a Test match bowler has a greater chance of succeeding as a white-ball bowler." "There are some bowlers whom you include only for T20s, for white-ball matches. So In think Siraj is a very good all-format bowler. There is no shortage skill, he has all type of variations. I would in fact say that skill wise, he is even ahead of Bumrah, if you talk of variations," Nehra explained. "He has a different slower one, there is no lack of speed, he can move the new ball. He needs to keep his fitness and sharpen his mind. If he can do these two things well, sky is the limit." Mohammed Siraj has been in some form since the Australian tour and is one of the successful bowlers in the ongoing IPL.

IPL 2021- Ashish Nehra feels Mohammed Siraj is better than Jasprit Bumrah 'skill wise'

Former Indian paceman Ashish Nehra lauded Virat Kohli's efforts on the final day of the first Test against England on Tuesday. While chasing a mammoth target of 420 runs, Kohli went on to register his 24th half-century, however, was bowled by Stokes for 72.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ajinkya-and-ive-virat-kohli-gives-his-insight-on-rahanes-performance-in-chennai-test-362586" hreflang="en">'Ajinkya and I’ve..': Virat Kohli gives his insight on Rahane's performance in Chennai Test</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

Nehra felt that Kohli could also go on to score 250 if India can win the toss.&nbsp;

"You are talking about one or two centuries, I would say when India wins the toss, he will score 250 also," Nehra said on Star Sports.

"This is the special thing about Virat Kohli. When Ashwin got out, he knew that they will lose the match but he did not play any airy-fairy shots. He takes pride in scoring his own runs, that he should not get out. Anyone would have got out to the ball he was dismissed, it kept extremely low.”

Kohli tried stabilising the innings with Ashwin after India lost wickets in quick succession. However, the 50-run stand was broken when Jack Leach's clinical spell removed Ashwin.&nbsp;

"He kept at it which you need to do on the fourth and fifth days on a subcontinent pitch. The desire makes this player different from others and it is not only here when he couldn't score runs in England, very few people would have seen Virat Kohli lunging forward to play the defensive shots. To do that, you need the fitness," Nehra said.

India are set to lock horns with England in the 2nd Test at the same venue in front of 50 per cent of fans starting Saturday.

Former Indian paceman Ashish Nehra lauded Virat Kohli's efforts on the final day of the first Test against England on Tuesday. While chasing a mammoth target of 420 runs, Kohli went on to register his 24th half-century, however, was bowled by Stokes for 72.

Former Indian paceman Ashish Nehra lauded Virat Kohli's efforts on the final day of the first Test against England on Tuesday. While chasing a mammoth target of 420 runs, Kohli went on to register his 24th half-century, however, was bowled by Stokes for 72. ALSO READ: 'Ajinkya and I’ve..': Virat Kohli gives his insight on Rahane's performance in Chennai Test Nehra felt that Kohli could also go on to score 250 if India can win the toss. "You are talking about one or two centuries, I would say when India wins the toss, he will score 250 also," Nehra said on Star Sports. "This is the special thing about Virat Kohli. When Ashwin got out, he knew that they will lose the match but he did not play any airy-fairy shots. He takes pride in scoring his own runs, that he should not get out. Anyone would have got out to the ball he was dismissed, it kept extremely low.” Kohli tried stabilising the innings with Ashwin after India lost wickets in quick succession. However, the 50-run stand was broken when Jack Leach's clinical spell removed Ashwin. "He kept at it which you need to do on the fourth and fifth days on a subcontinent pitch. The desire makes this player different from others and it is not only here when he couldn't score runs in England, very few people would have seen Virat Kohli lunging forward to play the defensive shots. To do that, you need the fitness," Nehra said. India are set to lock horns with England in the 2nd Test at the same venue in front of 50 per cent of fans starting Saturday.

'When India wins the toss, he will score 250': Ashish Nehra on Virat Kohli

Former India pacer Ashish Nehra reckons there is 100 per cent possibility of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 taking place in the final quarter of the year 2020 given the situation surrounding COVID-19 improves worldwide by October.&nbsp;

The IPL 2020 was earlier scheduled to be played from March 29 but was suspended till April 15. However, with entire India currently under a 21-day lockdown period, there no clarity whether it would go ahead at all.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-is-massive-hope-there-is-a-way-to-schedule-ipl-later-in-the-year-rajasthan-royals-jos-buttler-291119" hreflang="en">IPL is massive, hope there is a way to schedule IPL later in the year: Rajasthan Royals' Jos Buttler</a>

Nehra is of the view that if the IPL happens in August, a lot of matches will get cancelled due to monsoon season in India. However, the World Cup winner added that if things are back to normal by October then the organisers will have 100 per cent clearance to conduct the cash-rich tournament.

"Even if the IPL doesn't happen in August, (because) there are a lot of places in India that witness rains during that month and there are high chances that lots of matches will get cancelled," Nehra told host broadcasters’ show 'Cricket Connected'.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/harbhajan-singh-fine-with-the-idea-of-ipl-2020-behind-closed-doors-291101" hreflang="en">Harbhajan Singh fine with the idea of IPL 2020 behind closed doors</a>

"If things go back to normal around the world by October, we'll have a 100 per cent clearance," he reckoned.

However, with the spike in COVID-19 cases increasing with each passing day in India and across the world, there are less chances of IPL 2020 taking place this year. The deadly virus has claimed nearly 150 Indian lives apart from causing more than 80,000 global deaths with many countries going under complete lockdown, including India.&nbsp; 
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Former India pacer Ashish Nehra reckons there is 100 per cent possibility of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 taking place in the final quarter of the year 2020 given the situation surrounding COVID-19 improves worldwide by October.

Former India pacer Ashish Nehra reckons there is 100 per cent possibility of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 taking place in the final quarter of the year 2020 given the situation surrounding COVID-19 improves worldwide by October. The IPL 2020 was earlier scheduled to be played from March 29 but was suspended till April 15. However, with entire India currently under a 21-day lockdown period, there no clarity whether it would go ahead at all. ALSO READ: IPL is massive, hope there is a way to schedule IPL later in the year: Rajasthan Royals' Jos Buttler Nehra is of the view that if the IPL happens in August, a lot of matches will get cancelled due to monsoon season in India. However, the World Cup winner added that if things are back to normal by October then the organisers will have 100 per cent clearance to conduct the cash-rich tournament. "Even if the IPL doesn't happen in August, (because) there are a lot of places in India that witness rains during that month and there are high chances that lots of matches will get cancelled," Nehra told host broadcasters’ show 'Cricket Connected'. ALSO READ: Harbhajan Singh fine with the idea of IPL 2020 behind closed doors "If things go back to normal around the world by October, we'll have a 100 per cent clearance," he reckoned. However, with the spike in COVID-19 cases increasing with each passing day in India and across the world, there are less chances of IPL 2020 taking place this year. The deadly virus has claimed nearly 150 Indian lives apart from causing more than 80,000 global deaths with many countries going under complete lockdown, including India.

'We'll have a 100 per cent clearance if...' - Ashish Nehra opines on future of IPL 2020

For the reticent Gautam Gambhir, India''s 2011 World Cup triumph was a journey of 20-odd people, not one freeze-frame moment that social media makes it look every year on this very day.

Harbhajan Singh can't fathom why those 11 players never played as a team in a single international game after that.

Ashish Nehra is not a man with too many regrets as he missed the final with a finger fracture but April 2 is a day which better half Rushma ensures that he "better not forget".

They were heroes in one of the most glorious chapters in Indian cricket and they all cherish that even though lives and careers have gone in different directions in the past nine years.

And what about him? Well, Mahendra Singh Dhoni was a recluse then and remains a recluse now, unbelievably guarded, even as the speculation on his future has come to a halt with people, for a change, discussing implications of the COVID-19 more.

Sachin Tendulkar, since then, has retired but is no less revered by one and all who can still watch the 46-year-old pad up even if it''s for five minutes in a charity game.

The man who carried him on his shoulders, Virat Kohli, has taken Tendulkar''s place as world cricket''s premier batsman with a game that brings thousands into the stadium.

Zaheer Khan has settled into a nice post-retirement life with some franchise coaching as well as donning the role of an analyst while S Sreesanth, after all the taint, shame and horror of match-fixing, maybe just hoping to don the Kerala jersey one last time.

"Dhoni hits a six, India wins the World Cup," is among the most famous lines spoken on air by Ravi Shastri, whose commentary otherwise was littered with cliches.

But does that one moment defines India''s entire campaign at the World Cup? Not at least for Gambhir, whose 97 in the final was priceless as he weathered the initial storm after Sehwag and Tendulkar''s dismissal.

"High time media learns that," Gambhir told PTI after his tweet on how the World Cup was won by a team not an individual, went viral on the day.

Nehra, whose life in Goa these days, is far removed from social media remembers the funny side of April 2.

"Even if I forget the World Cup final, I can't forget April 2. It''s my marriage anniversary today. So you think my wife would let me forget the date. We completed 11 years of marriage today and nine years of the World Cup. So 11 plus 9 is 20 and we are in 2020," he starts laughing.

On a serious note, he remembers his performance against Pakistan.

"I got injured but it was a great match. Obviously, you feel bad if you can't play the final but April 2 is the best day of my life, our lives. We didn''t sleep that night.

"I think, in my room, there was Bhajji, Zak, Munna (Munaf) and friends from ICC like Dheeraj (Delhi Capitals CEO Dheeraj Malhotra who was an ICC official at that time). I ordered 40 omelettes for breakfast after we had a ball the whole night," Nehra remembers.

Harbhajan agrees with Gambhir that it was a team effort.

"Zak''s performance against England. We would have lost that match had he not bowled and got a tie for us. Yuvi''s tournament and that knock against Australia. Sachin in the semi-finals.

"Gautam and Mahi in the finals. You look around and you will find significant contributions," Harbhajan recollected.

That was the only day, he says, he got emotional on the field of play.

"I don't think I have ever shed tears on the ground. The day was such. But then when I think back, one thing strikes me.

"You can check the scoreboard but those XI players never played another match together in India colours. Never again and I don't know why? I don''t have an answer," he said.

"Very soon, the preparation for 2015 started but that team couldn't be kept together for two years. We never played together again," he recalled.

For the reticent Gautam Gambhir, India''s 2011 World Cup triumph was a journey of 20-odd people, not one freeze-frame moment that social media makes it look every year on this very day.

For the reticent Gautam Gambhir, India''s 2011 World Cup triumph was a journey of 20-odd people, not one freeze-frame moment that social media makes it look every year on this very day. Harbhajan Singh can't fathom why those 11 players never played as a team in a single international game after that. Ashish Nehra is not a man with too many regrets as he missed the final with a finger fracture but April 2 is a day which better half Rushma ensures that he "better not forget". They were heroes in one of the most glorious chapters in Indian cricket and they all cherish that even though lives and careers have gone in different directions in the past nine years. And what about him? Well, Mahendra Singh Dhoni was a recluse then and remains a recluse now, unbelievably guarded, even as the speculation on his future has come to a halt with people, for a change, discussing implications of the COVID-19 more. Sachin Tendulkar, since then, has retired but is no less revered by one and all who can still watch the 46-year-old pad up even if it''s for five minutes in a charity game. The man who carried him on his shoulders, Virat Kohli, has taken Tendulkar''s place as world cricket''s premier batsman with a game that brings thousands into the stadium. Zaheer Khan has settled into a nice post-retirement life with some franchise coaching as well as donning the role of an analyst while S Sreesanth, after all the taint, shame and horror of match-fixing, maybe just hoping to don the Kerala jersey one last time. "Dhoni hits a six, India wins the World Cup," is among the most famous lines spoken on air by Ravi Shastri, whose commentary otherwise was littered with cliches. But does that one moment defines India''s entire campaign at the World Cup? Not at least for Gambhir, whose 97 in the final was priceless as he weathered the initial storm after Sehwag and Tendulkar''s dismissal. "High time media learns that," Gambhir told PTI after his tweet on how the World Cup was won by a team not an individual, went viral on the day. Nehra, whose life in Goa these days, is far removed from social media remembers the funny side of April 2. "Even if I forget the World Cup final, I can't forget April 2. It''s my marriage anniversary today. So you think my wife would let me forget the date. We completed 11 years of marriage today and nine years of the World Cup. So 11 plus 9 is 20 and we are in 2020," he starts laughing. On a serious note, he remembers his performance against Pakistan. "I got injured but it was a great match. Obviously, you feel bad if you can't play the final but April 2 is the best day of my life, our lives. We didn''t sleep that night. "I think, in my room, there was Bhajji, Zak, Munna (Munaf) and friends from ICC like Dheeraj (Delhi Capitals CEO Dheeraj Malhotra who was an ICC official at that time). I ordered 40 omelettes for breakfast after we had a ball the whole night," Nehra remembers. Harbhajan agrees with Gambhir that it was a team effort. "Zak''s performance against England. We would have lost that match had he not bowled and got a tie for us. Yuvi''s tournament and that knock against Australia. Sachin in the semi-finals. "Gautam and Mahi in the finals. You look around and you will find significant contributions," Harbhajan recollected. That was the only day, he says, he got emotional on the field of play. "I don't think I have ever shed tears on the ground. The day was such. But then when I think back, one thing strikes me. "You can check the scoreboard but those XI players never played another match together in India colours. Never again and I don't know why? I don''t have an answer," he said. "Very soon, the preparation for 2015 started but that team couldn't be kept together for two years. We never played together again," he recalled.

WC 2011: More than a ''6'' for one, XI that never played again for other, marriage anniversary for 3rd

Former Indian fast bowler Steve Smith on Monday conceded that Steve Smith was wrong in orchestrating ball-tampering but stressed that life ban for him would be too harsh.

"Life ban for them would be too harsh, not just for them but for any player," Nehra said.

The left-arm pacer had the same opinion for David Warner too.

"You have to give them [Smith and David Warner] credit that they accepted to ball-tampering and stood down from captaincy and vice-captaincy," he added.&nbsp;

On being asked about their future upcoming IPL season, Nehra said they should not be expelled and should be allowed to play as players. 
&nbsp; 
"I do not think they should be expelled from IPL. Even if they play as players and not as captains for their respective franchises, the teams would be benefitted."

He urged the cricket fraternity to move forward now as they have accepted their mistake.

On Saturday, Smith confessed that the decision on ball-tampering had been taken by the leadership group of the team.

Following the confession, he and Warner stood down as captain and vice-captain respectively.&nbsp;

Today, Smith also stood down as the captain of his IPL franchise Rajasthan Royals. India's Test batsman Ajinky Rahane has been announced as his replacement.&nbsp;

For the ball-tampering act, ICC handed Smith a one-match suspension and fined 100 per cent of his match fee for his leadership role in the shameful act.&nbsp;

Additionally, Australia opener Cameron Bancroft has been fined 75 per cent of his match fee and handed three demerit points for breaching Level 2 of the ICC Code of Conduct.

The left-arm pacer had the same opinion for David Warner too

Former Indian fast bowler Steve Smith on Monday conceded that Steve Smith was wrong in orchestrating ball-tampering but stressed that life ban for him would be too harsh. "Life ban for them would be too harsh, not just for them but for any player," Nehra said. The left-arm pacer had the same opinion for David Warner too. "You have to give them [Smith and David Warner] credit that they accepted to ball-tampering and stood down from captaincy and vice-captaincy," he added. On being asked about their future upcoming IPL season, Nehra said they should not be expelled and should be allowed to play as players. "I do not think they should be expelled from IPL. Even if they play as players and not as captains for their respective franchises, the teams would be benefitted." He urged the cricket fraternity to move forward now as they have accepted their mistake. On Saturday, Smith confessed that the decision on ball-tampering had been taken by the leadership group of the team. Following the confession, he and Warner stood down as captain and vice-captain respectively. Today, Smith also stood down as the captain of his IPL franchise Rajasthan Royals. India's Test batsman Ajinky Rahane has been announced as his replacement. For the ball-tampering act, ICC handed Smith a one-match suspension and fined 100 per cent of his match fee for his leadership role in the shameful act. Additionally, Australia opener Cameron Bancroft has been fined 75 per cent of his match fee and handed three demerit points for breaching Level 2 of the ICC Code of Conduct.

Too harsh': Ashish Nehra on life ban for Steve Smith

Just days ahead the auction of players for the Indian Premier League 2018, former Indian cricketer and current mentor of Kings XI Punjab Virender Sehwag expressed confidence in out of form Yuvraj Singh saying he has the ability to make a comeback in the Indian Cricket Team.

&quot;He&#39;s not in the Indian team, but Yuvraj is still an amazing player. His talent is intact. Even a current India player can lose form. I don&#39;t think we&#39;ll get a player like him again. If his form his good, he&#39;s a match-winner.&quot;&nbsp;

In an interview to a leading daily, the former great went on to tip Yuvraj, saying if he performs good in the domestic cricket and passes the yoyo Test then he surely can make a comeback.

Sehwag stated that If Ashish Nehra can make a comeback at 36, then why not Yuvraj.

He also talked about the wishlist&#39; of his own franchise and said that fans would be eager to see Yuvraj and Harbhajan in the franchise.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
When asked what different he wants to see this season, Sehwag, in his typical style said,&quot;I want to see fours and sixes whether from my team or any other team, because that is the kind of crick0et I have played and that is what I want to see.&quot;&nbsp;

On being asked about the international cricketers becoming favourite this season, the 39-year-old also said &quot;Ben Stokes, Dwayne Bravo and Mitchell Starc are the international players everyone wants. I won&#39;t be surprised if Stokes goes for around $1.5 million.&quot;

&quot;I expect the capped India players to fetch around Rs10-12cr too. Among the uncapped players, Krunal Pandya and Deepak Hooda would be in demand,&quot; he added.&nbsp;

The IPL 2018 auction is slated to take place in Bengaluru on January 27 and 28.

Sehwag said If Ashish Nehra can make a comeback at 36, then why not Yuvraj

Just days ahead the auction of players for the Indian Premier League 2018, former Indian cricketer and current mentor of Kings XI Punjab Virender Sehwag expressed confidence in out of form Yuvraj Singh saying he has the ability to make a comeback in the Indian Cricket Team. "He's not in the Indian team, but Yuvraj is still an amazing player. His talent is intact. Even a current India player can lose form. I don't think we'll get a player like him again. If his form his good, he's a match-winner." In an interview to a leading daily, the former great went on to tip Yuvraj, saying if he performs good in the domestic cricket and passes the yoyo Test then he surely can make a comeback. Sehwag stated that If Ashish Nehra can make a comeback at 36, then why not Yuvraj. He also talked about the wishlist' of his own franchise and said that fans would be eager to see Yuvraj and Harbhajan in the franchise. When asked what different he wants to see this season, Sehwag, in his typical style said,"I want to see fours and sixes whether from my team or any other team, because that is the kind of crick0et I have played and that is what I want to see." On being asked about the international cricketers becoming favourite this season, the 39-year-old also said "Ben Stokes, Dwayne Bravo and Mitchell Starc are the international players everyone wants. I won't be surprised if Stokes goes for around $1.5 million." "I expect the capped India players to fetch around Rs10-12cr too. Among the uncapped players, Krunal Pandya and Deepak Hooda would be in demand," he added. The IPL 2018 auction is slated to take place in Bengaluru on January 27 and 28.

Sehwag confident of Yuvraj capable of making strong comeback like Ashish Nehra

Ashish Nehra bowled his last ball at the Feroz Shah Kotla Stadium, also his home ground, where the Virat Kohli-led team thrashed New Zealand by 53 runs in the first of three Twenty20 internationals.

India&#39;s veteran speedster Ashish Nehra, who retired from all forms of cricket on Wednesday, said that he has no regrets in his 18-year-long cricket journey.

It was a historical day for India as they broke the spell against Kiwis to establish their first T20I win against them and also for Nehra as he bid adieu to his career on the ground where it all started.

&quot;It is an emotional moment. I am lucky that I bid adieu to cricket from my home ground. I still remember 1997, when I bowled my first over,&quot; Nehra told the media while recalling his cricket years.

The heavy-hearted &#39;Indian Cricket&#39;s Jon Snow&#39; said, &quot;It&#39;s not how you start, it is about how you finish. I don&#39;t think I can get better than this.&quot;

&quot;For me, those fifteen people inside are the most important. As long as they are asking me to play more and want me in the team, that what is most important for me. I am happy that they still value me,&quot; he further said.

The left-arm fast bowler had many hiccups in his almost 18-year-long cricket journey. The fast bowler has been hit with a long string of injuries right through his cricketing career. There were also years when he was not selected for the Indian team.

Talking about the years when he was not picked for the team, Nehra said, &quot;I never asked questions to team management and selectors. They didn&#39;t pick me, it was entirely their call. You can&#39;t blame someone for not picking you. But if you are good, your chance will come, but you have to be ready for it. I was ready for it. Now, I am playing for last two years, doing well and getting this kind of farewell. So maybe this is God&#39;s payback for my hard work.&quot;

Nehra said that he grabbed his chance with both the hands.

&quot;There were difficult times in between. For good six months in 2007, I didn&#39;t bowl a single ball even in the nets. I had ankle surgery and ten-eleven surgeries. It wasn&#39;t easy, but then I am a very content guy. I always see the positive things,&quot; he added.

The 38-year-old also said that India is more of a star-loving country than a sport-loving one.

&quot;I want to see people coming for Ranji trophies,&quot; Nehra said.

Asked about the captain under whom he played enjoying most, Nehra said, &quot;I never like to compare. I have played under Saurav Ganguly, M S Dhoni, Virat Kohli. Everybody is different, it is difficult to compare.&quot;

Talking about his future plans after retirement, the fast bowler said, &quot;I know only cricket. I haven&#39;t decided what I will do next. I will sit and relax and think.&quot;

The left-arm fast bowler made his international debut way back in 1999 against Sri Lanka in Colombo.

He was also a part of the young Indian brigade that played the 2003 World Cup.

The mates bid adeau to the player and talking to twitter, Indian Cricket team captain, Virat Kohli wished Nehra luck for his future.

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Another good win and a complete team performance. ?????? 
Wishing Ashish bhaiya all the luck for everything in the future. It&#39;s been an honor sharing the field and the dressing room with you. ???? <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BCCI</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvNZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvNZ</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NehraJi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NehraJi</a> <a href="https://t.co/hfCTHfo8rP">pic.twitter.com/hfCTHfo8rP</a>
&mdash; Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/925788929718145026?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 1, 2017</a></blockquote>
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Virendra Sehwag also congratulated Nehra for a wonderful career.

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End of an era , Ashish Nehra. Congratulations on a fighting and wonderful career. Wish you the best , Ashish.
&mdash; Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) <a href="https://twitter.com/virendersehwag/status/925772914632413184?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 1, 2017</a></blockquote>
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Cricket legend Sachin tendulkar&nbsp;wished Nehra on his farewell.

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Great win, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a>! Nice to see a well deserved farewell for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AshishNehra?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AshishNehra</a>. Wish you &amp; your family the best of health &amp; happiness in life?? <a href="https://t.co/Ml9zFUWCpz">pic.twitter.com/Ml9zFUWCpz</a>
&mdash; sachin tendulkar (@sachin_rt) <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt/status/925774530445901825?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 1, 2017</a></blockquote>
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Harbhajan singh also congratulated&nbsp;Nehra for the win and wished him for his future.&nbsp;Also posted a picture of doing bhangra.

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Gud luck my bro <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ashishnehra?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ashishnehra</a> playing his last game 2day.jus enjoy as we did in this pic aftr winning th World Cup2011. Bhangra khich <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BCCI</a> <a href="https://t.co/DDkqngSNf7">pic.twitter.com/DDkqngSNf7</a>
&mdash; Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) <a href="https://twitter.com/harbhajan_singh/status/925712954313523200?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 1, 2017</a></blockquote>
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The Indian star bid adieu from the game with a tally of 235 wickets from 164 matches across all the formats in international cricket.

Ashish Nehra bowled his last ball at the Feroz Shah Kotla Stadium, also his home ground, where the Virat Kohli-led team thrashed New Zealand by 53 runs in the first of three Twenty20 internationals. India's veteran speedster Ashish Nehra, who retired from all forms of cricket on Wednesday, said that he has no regrets in his 18-year-long cricket journey. It was a historical day for India as they broke the spell against Kiwis to establish their first T20I win against them and also for Nehra as he bid adieu to his career on the ground where it all started. "It is an emotional moment. I am lucky that I bid adieu to cricket from my home ground. I still remember 1997, when I bowled my first over," Nehra told the media while recalling his cricket years. The heavy-hearted 'Indian Cricket's Jon Snow' said, "It's not how you start, it is about how you finish. I don't think I can get better than this." "For me, those fifteen people inside are the most important. As long as they are asking me to play more and want me in the team, that what is most important for me. I am happy that they still value me," he further said. The left-arm fast bowler had many hiccups in his almost 18-year-long cricket journey. The fast bowler has been hit with a long string of injuries right through his cricketing career. There were also years when he was not selected for the Indian team. Talking about the years when he was not picked for the team, Nehra said, "I never asked questions to team management and selectors. They didn't pick me, it was entirely their call. You can't blame someone for not picking you. But if you are good, your chance will come, but you have to be ready for it. I was ready for it. Now, I am playing for last two years, doing well and getting this kind of farewell. So maybe this is God's payback for my hard work." Nehra said that he grabbed his chance with both the hands. "There were difficult times in between. For good six months in 2007, I didn't bowl a single ball even in the nets. I had ankle surgery and ten-eleven surgeries. It wasn't easy, but then I am a very content guy. I always see the positive things," he added. The 38-year-old also said that India is more of a star-loving country than a sport-loving one. "I want to see people coming for Ranji trophies," Nehra said. Asked about the captain under whom he played enjoying most, Nehra said, "I never like to compare. I have played under Saurav Ganguly, M S Dhoni, Virat Kohli. Everybody is different, it is difficult to compare." Talking about his future plans after retirement, the fast bowler said, "I know only cricket. I haven't decided what I will do next. I will sit and relax and think." The left-arm fast bowler made his international debut way back in 1999 against Sri Lanka in Colombo. He was also a part of the young Indian brigade that played the 2003 World Cup. The mates bid adeau to the player and talking to twitter, Indian Cricket team captain, Virat Kohli wished Nehra luck for his future. Another good win and a complete team performance. ?????? Wishing Ashish bhaiya all the luck for everything in the future. It's been an honor sharing the field and the dressing room with you. ???? @BCCI #INDvNZ #NehraJi pic.twitter.com/hfCTHfo8rP — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) November 1, 2017 × Virendra Sehwag also congratulated Nehra for a wonderful career. End of an era , Ashish Nehra. Congratulations on a fighting and wonderful career. Wish you the best , Ashish. — Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) November 1, 2017 × Cricket legend Sachin tendulkar wished Nehra on his farewell. Great win, #TeamIndia! Nice to see a well deserved farewell for #AshishNehra. Wish you & your family the best of health & happiness in life?? pic.twitter.com/Ml9zFUWCpz — sachin tendulkar (@sachin_rt) November 1, 2017 × Harbhajan singh also congratulated Nehra for the win and wished him for his future. Also posted a picture of doing bhangra. Gud luck my bro #Ashishnehra playing his last game 2day.jus enjoy as we did in this pic aftr winning th World Cup2011. Bhangra khich @BCCI pic.twitter.com/DDkqngSNf7 — Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) November 1, 2017 × The Indian star bid adieu from the game with a tally of 235 wickets from 164 matches across all the formats in international cricket.

Ashish Nehra bowled his last ball from home ground

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