Indian team's vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah has backed the team management's decision to include all-rounder Axar Patel in the Test squad ahead of the second Test against Sri Lanka in Bengaluru. The second and final Test of the two-match series between the two sides will be a pink-ball game which will be played at the Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru starting from Saturday (March 12).

Axar was included in the Test squad in place of Kuldeep, who was released ahead of the second and final Test. Backing the move, Bumrah said Axar brings a 'lot of value' to the squad which makes him a certain selection whenever he is fit. While he lauded the left-arm all-rounder for his recent impressive performances, Bumrah didn't comment on his chances of featuring in the playing XI for the pink-ball Test.

"See, Axar was part of the squad in the previous series as well and he's added a lot of value whenever we've played. In India, he's contributed a lot... He offers a lot with the bat, ball, and in the field... so he's been added. He was injured so whenever he's fit he straightaway jumps back into the squad. There'll be a discussion about what role we want [for him to play] and what combination we want to go with. But obviously, he's an important player for our team and brings a lot of value," said Bumrah in the pre-match press conference on Friday.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nobody-can-touch-virat-ex-india-batting-coach-backs-kohli-to-equal-sachin-tendulkars-world-record-461005">'Nobody can touch Virat': Ex-India batting coach backs Kohli to equal Sachin Tendulkar's world record</a>

Axar, who had missed the South Africa tour of India last year due to a shin injury, also didn't feature in the home Tests against West Indies. The all-rounder had contracted COVID-19 and was sent to the NCA for rehab. He was recently cleared by the BCCI medical team to make his comeback for the Indian team.

He has been brought in place of Kuldeep, who has been enduring a rough patch in his international career for a while now and has been struggling to get regular opportunities in both Tests and limited-overs formats. In the first Test against Sri Lanka, Jayant Yadav was preferred over Kuldeep, who was left on the bench.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/why-not-ravindra-jadeja-former-india-cricketer-questions-bcci-over-not-awarding-a-contract-to-all-rounder-461202">Why not Jadeja? Former India cricketer questions BCCI over not awarding A+ contract to all-rounder</a>

While many believe Kuldeep has been dropped from the Test side, Bumrah explained the Chinaman spinner has not been dropped but rested. Bumrah said the break will Kuldeep spend some time with his family ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 as living in a bio-bubble can take a toll on a player's mental health.

"See, he hasn't been removed from the team per se. He's been in the bubble for a long time, hasn't been home as well. So when his chances of playing were a bit less, he'll get the chance to spend some time with his family before the IPL. He's been sent home and rested from that aspect. It's not that he's been dropped." 
Bumrah said.

"Players' well-being is also very important because it's not very easy to stay in the bubble. Obviously, every player wants to play every game but the mental aspect is also important. Whenever he'll get the opportunity, he'll try and do well but in this scenario, [we wanted him] to get some time at home because then he'll once again get two months of the bubble in the IPL and won't be able to meet his family," he added. 
&nbsp;

Indian team's vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah has backed the team management's decision to include all-rounder Axar Patel in the Test squad ahead of the second Test against Sri Lanka in Bengaluru.

Indian team's vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah has backed the team management's decision to include all-rounder Axar Patel in the Test squad ahead of the second Test against Sri Lanka in Bengaluru. The second and final Test of the two-match series between the two sides will be a pink-ball game which will be played at the Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru starting from Saturday (March 12). Axar was included in the Test squad in place of Kuldeep, who was released ahead of the second and final Test. Backing the move, Bumrah said Axar brings a 'lot of value' to the squad which makes him a certain selection whenever he is fit. While he lauded the left-arm all-rounder for his recent impressive performances, Bumrah didn't comment on his chances of featuring in the playing XI for the pink-ball Test. "See, Axar was part of the squad in the previous series as well and he's added a lot of value whenever we've played. In India, he's contributed a lot... He offers a lot with the bat, ball, and in the field... so he's been added. He was injured so whenever he's fit he straightaway jumps back into the squad. There'll be a discussion about what role we want [for him to play] and what combination we want to go with. But obviously, he's an important player for our team and brings a lot of value," said Bumrah in the pre-match press conference on Friday. Also Read: 'Nobody can touch Virat': Ex-India batting coach backs Kohli to equal Sachin Tendulkar's world record Axar, who had missed the South Africa tour of India last year due to a shin injury, also didn't feature in the home Tests against West Indies. The all-rounder had contracted COVID-19 and was sent to the NCA for rehab. He was recently cleared by the BCCI medical team to make his comeback for the Indian team. He has been brought in place of Kuldeep, who has been enduring a rough patch in his international career for a while now and has been struggling to get regular opportunities in both Tests and limited-overs formats. In the first Test against Sri Lanka, Jayant Yadav was preferred over Kuldeep, who was left on the bench. Also Read: Why not Jadeja? Former India cricketer questions BCCI over not awarding A+ contract to all-rounder While many believe Kuldeep has been dropped from the Test side, Bumrah explained the Chinaman spinner has not been dropped but rested. Bumrah said the break will Kuldeep spend some time with his family ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 as living in a bio-bubble can take a toll on a player's mental health. "See, he hasn't been removed from the team per se. He's been in the bubble for a long time, hasn't been home as well. So when his chances of playing were a bit less, he'll get the chance to spend some time with his family before the IPL. He's been sent home and rested from that aspect. It's not that he's been dropped." Bumrah said. "Players' well-being is also very important because it's not very easy to stay in the bubble. Obviously, every player wants to play every game but the mental aspect is also important. Whenever he'll get the opportunity, he'll try and do well but in this scenario, [we wanted him] to get some time at home because then he'll once again get two months of the bubble in the IPL and won't be able to meet his family," he added.

'He hasn't been dropped': Jasprit Bumrah on Kuldeep Yadav getting replaced by Axar Patel in Test squad

From top earners to players with big pay cuts: BCCI's new central contracts list for 2021-22

India all-rounder Axar Patel is all set to join the squad for the second Test against Sri Lanka in Bengaluru.

The all-rounder was not included in the squad for the first Test, after he suffered a shin injury, which also prevented him from being a part of the series against West Indies. He had also tested positive for COVID-19.

Axar will be replacing spinner Kuldeep Yadav, who is now released by the Indian team.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-virat-kohlis-gesture-towards-a-disabled-fan-goes-viral-after-indias-massive-win-in-his-historic-test-459881">Watch: Virat Kohli's gesture towards a disabled fan goes viral after India's massive win in his historic Test</a>

Kuldeep was also not included in the first Test, as the team went for Jayant Yadav as their third spinner.

India defeated Sri Lanka in the first Test in Mohali, Punjab on Sunday and gained a 1-0 lead in the two-match series.

An all-round performance from Ravindra Jadeja (175 runs and 9 wickets) and R Ashwin (61 runs and 6 wickets) helped India register a resounding win in the first Test by an innings and 222 runs.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/r-ashwin-is-an-all-time-great-rohit-hails-spinner-after-he-becomes-indias-2nd-highest-wicket-taker-in-tests-459841">R Ashwin is an all-time great: Rohit hails spinner after he becomes India's 2nd highest wicket-taker in Tests</a>

Both the teams will be squaring off with each other for the second Test on March 12 in Bengaluru.

India all-rounder Axar Patel is all set to join the squad for the second Test against Sri Lanka in Bengaluru. The all-rounder was not included in the squad for the first Test, after he suffered a shin injury, which also prevented him from being a part of the series against West Indies.

India all-rounder Axar Patel is all set to join the squad for the second Test against Sri Lanka in Bengaluru. The all-rounder was not included in the squad for the first Test, after he suffered a shin injury, which also prevented him from being a part of the series against West Indies. He had also tested positive for COVID-19. Axar will be replacing spinner Kuldeep Yadav, who is now released by the Indian team. ALSO READ: Watch: Virat Kohli's gesture towards a disabled fan goes viral after India's massive win in his historic Test Kuldeep was also not included in the first Test, as the team went for Jayant Yadav as their third spinner. India defeated Sri Lanka in the first Test in Mohali, Punjab on Sunday and gained a 1-0 lead in the two-match series. An all-round performance from Ravindra Jadeja (175 runs and 9 wickets) and R Ashwin (61 runs and 6 wickets) helped India register a resounding win in the first Test by an innings and 222 runs. ALSO READ: R Ashwin is an all-time great: Rohit hails spinner after he becomes India's 2nd highest wicket-taker in Tests Both the teams will be squaring off with each other for the second Test on March 12 in Bengaluru.

India vs Sri Lanka: Axar Patel returns to India squad for second Test, Kuldeep Yadav released

India's vice-captain KL Rahul and all-rounder Axar Patel have been ruled out of the upcoming T20I series against West Indies. While Rahul will miss the three-match rubber after suffering a hamstring injury while fielding during the second ODI against West Indies on Wednesday, Axar is yet to recover fully from his shin injury and had also tested positive for COVID-19 recently.

The duo will be replaced by opening batter Ruturaj Gaikwad and all-rounder Deepak Hooda in India's T20 squad for the West Indies series. While Gaikwad has already made his T20I debut for the Indian team, Hooda is yet to earn his maiden cap in the shortest format of the game. Hooda had recently impressed on his ODI debut for the Men in Blue against Kieron Pollard's men.

"Rahul sustained an upper left hamstring strain during fielding in the 2nd ODI on 9th February 2022 while Axar has resumed the final stage of his rehabilitation after recently recovering from Covid-19. They will now head to the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru for further management of their injury," said the BCCI in a statement on Friday.

"The All-India Senior Selection Committee has named Ruturaj Gaikwad and Deepak Hooda as replacements," it added.&nbsp;

Both Gaikwad and Hooda are already part of India's ODI squad for the ongoing three-match series against West Indies and will stay with the squad for the T20Is. In the absence of Rahul, Gaikwad will be hoping to get more opportunities at the top after not getting even a single game in the ODI series.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-endures-worst-odi-series-in-9-years-as-he-bags-2-ball-duck-in-3rd-odi-against-west-indies-452428">Virat Kohli endures worst ODI series in 9 years as he bags 2-ball duck in 3rd ODI against West Indies</a>

Hooda can also be used as a finisher in the lower middle-order in the absence of the likes of Hardik Pandya and Ravindra Jadeja, who are both not part of the squad. Venkatesh Iyer will be Hooda's only competitor for the all-rounder's spot in the playing XI.

India's updated T20I squad: Rohit Sharma (Captain), Ishan Kishan, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Surya Kumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), Venkatesh Iyer, Deepak Chahar, Shardul Thakur, Ravi Bishnoi, Yuzvendra Chahal, Washington Sundar, Mohd. Siraj, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Avesh Khan, Harshal Patel, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Deepak Hooda.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

India's vice-captain KL Rahul and all-rounder Axar Patel have been ruled out of the upcoming T20I series against West Indies. While Rahul will miss the three-match rubber after suffering a hamstring injury while fielding during the second ODI against West Indies on Wednesday, Axar is yet to recover fully from his shin injury and had also tested positive for COVID-19 recently.

India's vice-captain KL Rahul and all-rounder Axar Patel have been ruled out of the upcoming T20I series against West Indies. While Rahul will miss the three-match rubber after suffering a hamstring injury while fielding during the second ODI against West Indies on Wednesday, Axar is yet to recover fully from his shin injury and had also tested positive for COVID-19 recently. The duo will be replaced by opening batter Ruturaj Gaikwad and all-rounder Deepak Hooda in India's T20 squad for the West Indies series. While Gaikwad has already made his T20I debut for the Indian team, Hooda is yet to earn his maiden cap in the shortest format of the game. Hooda had recently impressed on his ODI debut for the Men in Blue against Kieron Pollard's men. "Rahul sustained an upper left hamstring strain during fielding in the 2nd ODI on 9th February 2022 while Axar has resumed the final stage of his rehabilitation after recently recovering from Covid-19. They will now head to the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru for further management of their injury," said the BCCI in a statement on Friday. "The All-India Senior Selection Committee has named Ruturaj Gaikwad and Deepak Hooda as replacements," it added. Both Gaikwad and Hooda are already part of India's ODI squad for the ongoing three-match series against West Indies and will stay with the squad for the T20Is. In the absence of Rahul, Gaikwad will be hoping to get more opportunities at the top after not getting even a single game in the ODI series. Also Read: Virat Kohli endures worst ODI series in 9 years as he bags 2-ball duck in 3rd ODI against West Indies Hooda can also be used as a finisher in the lower middle-order in the absence of the likes of Hardik Pandya and Ravindra Jadeja, who are both not part of the squad. Venkatesh Iyer will be Hooda's only competitor for the all-rounder's spot in the playing XI. India's updated T20I squad: Rohit Sharma (Captain), Ishan Kishan, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Surya Kumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), Venkatesh Iyer, Deepak Chahar, Shardul Thakur, Ravi Bishnoi, Yuzvendra Chahal, Washington Sundar, Mohd. Siraj, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Avesh Khan, Harshal Patel, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Deepak Hooda.

KL Rahul, Axar Patel ruled out of T20I series against West Indies, replacements announced

The year 2021 is coming to an end. The calendar year saw plenty of action on the 22-yard cricket strip, especially in the purest format of the gentlemen's game. The year saw New Zealand become the first-ever World Test champions whereas many other riveting series was played out in the longest format of the game.&nbsp;

Many big guns made heads turn with their performances whereas some marquee players fell flat. On the other hand, some new faces made a mark in the toughest form of the game with their efforts on the field. Cricket Australia, thus, shared their Test XI for the year 2021, which featured some big names but the likes of Indian Test captain Virat Kohli and ace pacer Jasprit Bumrah found no place.&nbsp;

Cricket.com.au Test team features as many as four Indians, such as Rohit Sharma, R Ashwin, Rishabh Pant and Axar Patel. Rohit ended the year being the second-highest run-getter after Joe Root (1,708 runs). Rohit slammed 2 tons and 4 fifties whereas Pant finished with 748 runs, with 1 hundred and as many as five half-centuries. Ashwin is 2021's leading wicket-taker (54 scalps) whereas spin-bowling all-rounder Axar debuted in whites this year and returned with 36 scalps (second-most by an Indian).&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-womens-cricketer-of-the-year-award-smriti-mandhana-among-four-players-nominated-441424">ICC Women's Cricketer of the Year award: Smriti Mandhana among four players nominated</a>

The other players in the list are Sri Lanka's Dimuth Karunaratne (with 902 runs with 4 centuries and 3 fifties), also named the captain. Joe Root, Fawad Alam and Marnus Labuschagne also made the cut. Labuschagne ended being Australia's top run-getter in Tests (526 runs) whereas Fawad had three&nbsp;triple-figure knocks and two fifties. The rest of the list includes Kyle Jamieson (Player-of-the-Match in WTC final) and Pakistan's pace duo Hasan Ali and Shaheen Afridi (both among the top 3 wicket-takers in 2021).

Cricket Australia Test XI of 2021: Rohit Sharma, Dimuth Karunaratne (c), Marnus Labuschagne, Joe Root, Fawad Alam, Rishabh Pant (wk), Ravi Ashwin, Kyle Jamieson, Axar Patel, Hasan Ali, Shaheen Shah Afridi

The year 2021 is coming to an end. The calendar year saw plenty of action on the 22-yard cricket strip, especially in the purest format of the gentlemen's game. The year saw New Zealand become the first-ever World Test champions whereas many other riveting series was played out in the longest format of the game.

The year 2021 is coming to an end. The calendar year saw plenty of action on the 22-yard cricket strip, especially in the purest format of the gentlemen's game. The year saw New Zealand become the first-ever World Test champions whereas many other riveting series was played out in the longest format of the game. Many big guns made heads turn with their performances whereas some marquee players fell flat. On the other hand, some new faces made a mark in the toughest form of the game with their efforts on the field. Cricket Australia, thus, shared their Test XI for the year 2021, which featured some big names but the likes of Indian Test captain Virat Kohli and ace pacer Jasprit Bumrah found no place. Cricket.com.au Test team features as many as four Indians, such as Rohit Sharma, R Ashwin, Rishabh Pant and Axar Patel. Rohit ended the year being the second-highest run-getter after Joe Root (1,708 runs). Rohit slammed 2 tons and 4 fifties whereas Pant finished with 748 runs, with 1 hundred and as many as five half-centuries. Ashwin is 2021's leading wicket-taker (54 scalps) whereas spin-bowling all-rounder Axar debuted in whites this year and returned with 36 scalps (second-most by an Indian). ALSO READ | ICC Women's Cricketer of the Year award: Smriti Mandhana among four players nominated The other players in the list are Sri Lanka's Dimuth Karunaratne (with 902 runs with 4 centuries and 3 fifties), also named the captain. Joe Root, Fawad Alam and Marnus Labuschagne also made the cut. Labuschagne ended being Australia's top run-getter in Tests (526 runs) whereas Fawad had three triple-figure knocks and two fifties. The rest of the list includes Kyle Jamieson (Player-of-the-Match in WTC final) and Pakistan's pace duo Hasan Ali and Shaheen Afridi (both among the top 3 wicket-takers in 2021). Cricket Australia Test XI of 2021: Rohit Sharma, Dimuth Karunaratne (c), Marnus Labuschagne, Joe Root, Fawad Alam, Rishabh Pant (wk), Ravi Ashwin, Kyle Jamieson, Axar Patel, Hasan Ali, Shaheen Shah Afridi

No Kohli or Bumrah! Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant among 4 Indians in Cricket Australia's Test XI of 2021

The calendar year is coming to an end. The year 2021 saw plenty of cricketing action take place, which included the WTC final, IPL 2021, T20 World Cup, India's women's tour of England and Australia, Ashes 2021, U-19 Asia Cup and many more. Talking about Indian men's senior cricket team, the Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma-starrer performed in bilateral series across formats, played the WTC final and ended the year with some glaring changes in the team management.

Here's looking back at the positives for Team India in the year 2021:

Conquering Aussies Down Under

The year started with a second-stringed Ajinkya Rahane-led Indian team stunning Australia in their own backyard to win their second successive Test series on Aussies soil in the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Contrary to what many would've thought, the heroes for India were Mohammed Siraj (13 wickets), Washington Sundar, Shardul Thakur, Rishabh Pant (with two half-centuries), Shubman Gill (equal number of fifties), etc.

India hammer England across formats

After the Australia Tests, India romped past England in all forms of the game while hosting the Three Lions in early 2021. In Tests, India saw young guns such as Axar Patel (27 wickets), Rishabh Pant (second-highest run-getter for India), Washington Sundar (important fifties and 2&nbsp;wickets) perform. In the limited-overs leg, the likes of Kohli, Rahul, Rohit, Bhuvneshwar Kumar rose to the occasion with some success for Suryakumar Yadav and Ishan Kishan.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/vaughan-reacts-after-wasim-jaffer-hilariously-trolls-englishman-amid-joe-root-cos-ashes-horrors-440619">Vaughan reacts after Wasim Jaffer hilariously trolls Englishman amid Joe Root &amp; Co.'s Ashes horrors</a>

What a solid bench strength

India's solid bench strength once again came to the fore during their limited-overs tour of Sri Lanka. The likes of Suryakumar Yadav (Player-of-the-Series in ODIs), Rahul Chahar (taking seven wickets in the tour), Prithvi Shaw (with some attractive knocks in the ODIs) made heads turn whereas Shikhar Dhawan, Bhuvneshwar and Deepak Chahar led from the front being the experienced ones among the lot.

IPL 2021

This year's IPL was the first-ever season to be played in two halves, in India and the UAE. Talking about Kohli and Rohit, the superstar duo didn't have a great campaign with the bat for their respective franchises but the likes of Ruturaj Gaikwad (Orange Cap holder with 635 runs), Rishabh Pant, Shubman Gill, Sanju Samson, Prithvi Shaw remained in the top 10 for most runs among batters. In the bowling department, Harshal Patel (32 wickets), Avesh Khan, Varun Chakravarthy, Arshdeep Singh were among the top-10 wicket-takers.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-ipl-title-or-icc-silverware-captaincy-resignation-and-bcci-row-reliving-virat-kohlis-eventful-2021-439667">No IPL title or ICC silverware, captaincy resignation and BCCI row: Reliving Virat Kohli's eventful 2021</a>

While India's T20 World Cup campaign was a disaster, they returned with an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests versus Joe Root &amp; Co. in the United Kingdom. Bumrah returned with 18 wickets whereas Siraj finished with 15 scalps (second-most among Indians). With the bat, Rohit and KL Rahul led the show with 365 and 318 runs, respectively.&nbsp;

The Dravid-era

The year maybe ending with a controversy in the form of how things folded following the ODI&nbsp;captaincy row, however, Indian cricket fans can hope for things to be stable with an unfazed Rahul Dravid serving as the head coach. Dravid had led India in tumultuous times during the Greg Chappell-era. Hence, he has the calmness and excellent man-management skills to keep things afloat in the Indian camp during testing times as the captaincy baton has been passed from Kohli to Rohit in white-ball formats.&nbsp;

In 2022, India will complete their tour of South Africa, which is currently underway, host Sri Lanka, West Indies, Afghanistan along with preparing for the T20 World Cup in Australia under Dravid's guidance. Fasten your seatbelts as India look for more success in 2022.

The calendar year is coming to an end. The year 2021 saw plenty of cricketing action take place, which included the WTC final, IPL 2021, T20 World Cup, India's women's tour of England and Australia, Ashes 2021, U-19 Asia Cup and many more.

The calendar year is coming to an end. The year 2021 saw plenty of cricketing action take place, which included the WTC final, IPL 2021, T20 World Cup, India's women's tour of England and Australia, Ashes 2021, U-19 Asia Cup and many more. Talking about Indian men's senior cricket team, the Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma-starrer performed in bilateral series across formats, played the WTC final and ended the year with some glaring changes in the team management. Here's looking back at the positives for Team India in the year 2021: Conquering Aussies Down Under The year started with a second-stringed Ajinkya Rahane-led Indian team stunning Australia in their own backyard to win their second successive Test series on Aussies soil in the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Contrary to what many would've thought, the heroes for India were Mohammed Siraj (13 wickets), Washington Sundar, Shardul Thakur, Rishabh Pant (with two half-centuries), Shubman Gill (equal number of fifties), etc. India hammer England across formats After the Australia Tests, India romped past England in all forms of the game while hosting the Three Lions in early 2021. In Tests, India saw young guns such as Axar Patel (27 wickets), Rishabh Pant (second-highest run-getter for India), Washington Sundar (important fifties and 2 wickets) perform. In the limited-overs leg, the likes of Kohli, Rahul, Rohit, Bhuvneshwar Kumar rose to the occasion with some success for Suryakumar Yadav and Ishan Kishan. ALSO READ | Vaughan reacts after Wasim Jaffer hilariously trolls Englishman amid Joe Root & Co.'s Ashes horrors What a solid bench strength India's solid bench strength once again came to the fore during their limited-overs tour of Sri Lanka. The likes of Suryakumar Yadav (Player-of-the-Series in ODIs), Rahul Chahar (taking seven wickets in the tour), Prithvi Shaw (with some attractive knocks in the ODIs) made heads turn whereas Shikhar Dhawan, Bhuvneshwar and Deepak Chahar led from the front being the experienced ones among the lot. IPL 2021 This year's IPL was the first-ever season to be played in two halves, in India and the UAE. Talking about Kohli and Rohit, the superstar duo didn't have a great campaign with the bat for their respective franchises but the likes of Ruturaj Gaikwad (Orange Cap holder with 635 runs), Rishabh Pant, Shubman Gill, Sanju Samson, Prithvi Shaw remained in the top 10 for most runs among batters. In the bowling department, Harshal Patel (32 wickets), Avesh Khan, Varun Chakravarthy, Arshdeep Singh were among the top-10 wicket-takers. ALSO READ | No IPL title or ICC silverware, captaincy resignation and BCCI row: Reliving Virat Kohli's eventful 2021 While India's T20 World Cup campaign was a disaster, they returned with an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests versus Joe Root & Co. in the United Kingdom. Bumrah returned with 18 wickets whereas Siraj finished with 15 scalps (second-most among Indians). With the bat, Rohit and KL Rahul led the show with 365 and 318 runs, respectively. The Dravid-era The year maybe ending with a controversy in the form of how things folded following the ODI captaincy row, however, Indian cricket fans can hope for things to be stable with an unfazed Rahul Dravid serving as the head coach. Dravid had led India in tumultuous times during the Greg Chappell-era. Hence, he has the calmness and excellent man-management skills to keep things afloat in the Indian camp during testing times as the captaincy baton has been passed from Kohli to Rohit in white-ball formats. In 2022, India will complete their tour of South Africa, which is currently underway, host Sri Lanka, West Indies, Afghanistan along with preparing for the T20 World Cup in Australia under Dravid's guidance. Fasten your seatbelts as India look for more success in 2022.

Solid bench strength, IPL 2021, Test dominance to Rahul Dravid's return: Reliving India's 2021

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

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

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

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

The mutual respect and admiration between India and New Zealand players were at the display post India's comprehensive 372-run victory in the second and final Test of the two-match series between the two sides at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Monday. India bundled out the Kiwis for 167 in their second innings on Day 4 to complete a massive win and clinch the series 1-0 after a draw in the series-opener.

R Ashwin was awarded the Player of the Series for his bowling heroics throughout the two matches. He had picked up six wickets in the first Test and followed it up with eight scalps in the second Test. Ashwin shared a special picture featuring Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Ajaz Patel and Rachin Ravindra post the game.

The picture had the four players standing together with their names reflecting on the back, proving why cricket brings us together. The picture was appreciated by fans on Twitter, who called it the 'photo of the day'.&nbsp;

“A series win over the world champs ! Feels great to win a test at the Wankhede always. A fab innings by @mayankcricket and great bowling performance by @AjazP . A special thanks to the @NorthStandGang for their support through the game (sic)," an ecstatic Ashwin wrote in the tweet with the special picture.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
A series win over the world champs ! Feels great to win a test at the Wankhede always. A fab innings by <a href="https://twitter.com/mayankcricket?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mayankcricket</a> and great bowling performance by <a href="https://twitter.com/AjazP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AjazP</a> . A special thanks to the <a href="https://twitter.com/NorthStandGang?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NorthStandGang</a> for their support through the game <a href="https://t.co/NbgJZUnwHz">pic.twitter.com/NbgJZUnwHz</a>
— Ashwin 🇮🇳 (@ashwinravi99) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99/status/1467740028151369731?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/updated-world-test-championship-points-table-after-india-vs-new-zealand-series-434499">Updated World Test Championship points table after India vs New Zealand series</a>

Asked to chase a huge target of 540 runs in their second innings, New Zealand batters crumbled under pressure once again as the visitors lost wickets in clusters. Resuming their second innings from 140/5 on Day 4, New Zealand lost their remaining five wickets inside just 25 runs.

While Ashwin picked up three wickets, Jadeja picked up a four-wicket haul to run through the Kiwi batting line-up, skittling them out for just 167&nbsp;runs. Mayank Agarwal was the stand out performer for India with the bat as he notched up a brilliant knock of 150 runs in the first innings before scoring 62 runs in the second innings.

The mutual respect and admiration between India and New Zealand players were at the display post India's comprehensive 372-run victory in the second and final Test of the two-match series between the two sides at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Monday.

The mutual respect and admiration between India and New Zealand players were at the display post India's comprehensive 372-run victory in the second and final Test of the two-match series between the two sides at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Monday. India bundled out the Kiwis for 167 in their second innings on Day 4 to complete a massive win and clinch the series 1-0 after a draw in the series-opener. R Ashwin was awarded the Player of the Series for his bowling heroics throughout the two matches. He had picked up six wickets in the first Test and followed it up with eight scalps in the second Test. Ashwin shared a special picture featuring Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Ajaz Patel and Rachin Ravindra post the game. The picture had the four players standing together with their names reflecting on the back, proving why cricket brings us together. The picture was appreciated by fans on Twitter, who called it the 'photo of the day'. “A series win over the world champs ! Feels great to win a test at the Wankhede always. A fab innings by @mayankcricket and great bowling performance by @AjazP . A special thanks to the @NorthStandGang for their support through the game (sic)," an ecstatic Ashwin wrote in the tweet with the special picture. A series win over the world champs ! Feels great to win a test at the Wankhede always. A fab innings by @mayankcricket and great bowling performance by @AjazP . A special thanks to the @NorthStandGang for their support through the game pic.twitter.com/NbgJZUnwHz — Ashwin 🇮🇳 (@ashwinravi99) December 6, 2021 × Also Read: Updated World Test Championship points table after India vs New Zealand series Asked to chase a huge target of 540 runs in their second innings, New Zealand batters crumbled under pressure once again as the visitors lost wickets in clusters. Resuming their second innings from 140/5 on Day 4, New Zealand lost their remaining five wickets inside just 25 runs. While Ashwin picked up three wickets, Jadeja picked up a four-wicket haul to run through the Kiwi batting line-up, skittling them out for just 167 runs. Mayank Agarwal was the stand out performer for India with the bat as he notched up a brilliant knock of 150 runs in the first innings before scoring 62 runs in the second innings.

R Ashwin wins hearts with 'picture of the day' featuring Axar, Patel, Ravindra & Jadeja after India beat NZ

Over the years, the Delhi Capitals (DC) have become one of the most consistent sides in IPL history. While the IPL 2020 runners-up would've been eager to retain their core players, the Delhi franchise has gone ahead with four retained players. They are Rishabh Pant, Axar Patel, Prithvi Shaw and Anrich Nortje.&nbsp;

Hence, some big names have been left out of the DC franchise such as Marcus Stoinis, R Ashwin, Avesh Khan, Shikhar Dhawan and their former captain Shreyas Iyer.&nbsp;

DC co-owner Parth Jindal told the broadcasters after announcing the list, "It was heartbreaking. Absolutely heartbroken having to lose Shreyas Iyer, Kagiso Rabada, Shikhar Dhawan, R Ashwin. It is just unfair that you build up a team, give chance to youngsters, groom them but then you lose them after three years. I think IPL needs to look after it. But it is what it is. We are going to try and bring as many of the DC players back in the auction as we can."

For the unversed, DC have a total of 47.5 crores (475&nbsp;million) in their purse heading into the IPL 2022 auction. Meanwhile, South Africa's speedster and DC's vital cog Nortje also reacted after being retained. "Really excited to be retained. Can't wait for 2022 to start. So far it has been an unbelievable experience so far and looking forward," said Nortje.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mi-complete-retentions-list-rohit-sharma-jasprit-bumrah-suryakumar-yadav-and-kieron-pollard-retained-433065">MI complete retentions list: Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Suryakumar Yadav and Kieron Pollard retained</a>

The franchise will now look to bring back as many players as they can, from their non-retained players, and also add some more valuable players in the IPL 2022 auction. The auction is likely to be held early in 2022.

Over the years, the Delhi Capitals (DC) have become one of the most consistent sides in IPL history. While the IPL 2020 runners-up would've been eager to retain their core players, the Delhi franchise has gone ahead with four retained players.

Over the years, the Delhi Capitals (DC) have become one of the most consistent sides in IPL history. While the IPL 2020 runners-up would've been eager to retain their core players, the Delhi franchise has gone ahead with four retained players. They are Rishabh Pant, Axar Patel, Prithvi Shaw and Anrich Nortje. Hence, some big names have been left out of the DC franchise such as Marcus Stoinis, R Ashwin, Avesh Khan, Shikhar Dhawan and their former captain Shreyas Iyer. DC co-owner Parth Jindal told the broadcasters after announcing the list, "It was heartbreaking. Absolutely heartbroken having to lose Shreyas Iyer, Kagiso Rabada, Shikhar Dhawan, R Ashwin. It is just unfair that you build up a team, give chance to youngsters, groom them but then you lose them after three years. I think IPL needs to look after it. But it is what it is. We are going to try and bring as many of the DC players back in the auction as we can." For the unversed, DC have a total of 47.5 crores (475 million) in their purse heading into the IPL 2022 auction. Meanwhile, South Africa's speedster and DC's vital cog Nortje also reacted after being retained. "Really excited to be retained. Can't wait for 2022 to start. So far it has been an unbelievable experience so far and looking forward," said Nortje. ALSO READ | MI complete retentions list: Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Suryakumar Yadav and Kieron Pollard retained The franchise will now look to bring back as many players as they can, from their non-retained players, and also add some more valuable players in the IPL 2022 auction. The auction is likely to be held early in 2022.

Delhi Capitals retention list: DC retain Rishabh Pant, Axar Patel, Anrich Nortje and Prithvi Shaw

Axar Patel wreaked havoc on New Zealand batting line-up on Day 3 of the ongoing first Test between India and the Kiwis in Kanpur on Saturday. Axar picked up a five-wicket haul as India bundled out the Kiwis for 296 runs in their first innings to gain a crucial lead of 49 runs ahead of their second innings.

It was a brilliant spell from Axar, who spun a web around the New Zealand batting line-up and continuously troubled the Kiwi batters. Axar finished with brilliant figures of 5/62 in his 4 overs and was the pick of the bowlers for Team India in the series-opener at Kanpur.

Former India cricketer Wasi Jaffer, who is known for his witty tweets and hilarious memes on Twitter, took a dig at Axar and pointed out his 'only mistake' in the Test match after his sensational spell. Jaffer, who is known for entertaining cricket fans on Twitter with his funny side, posted a picture of the match ball which was gifted to Axar after his five-wicket haul and said the only mistake the left-arm spinner made was putting the wrong date on the ball.

&nbsp;"The only mistake Axar Patel made today was putting wrong date on the match ball. 27th November hai bapu @akshar2026 #INDvNZ," Jaffer wrote in a tweet.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The only mistake Axar Patel made today was putting wrong date on the match ball. 27th November hai bapu <a href="https://twitter.com/akshar2026?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@akshar2026</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvNZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvNZ</a> <a href="https://t.co/fJKGPHqIry">pic.twitter.com/fJKGPHqIry</a>
— Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) <a href="https://twitter.com/WasimJaffer14/status/1464565464353308672?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Axar was quick to respond to Jaffer's tweet and clarified that it was not him but his Indian teammate Suryakumar Yadav, who had put the wrong date on the match ball. Suryakumar also joined the banter on Twitter and reacted hilariously to Jaffer's idea of punishment for his mistake. The banter between the trio became the talk of town among cricket fans on Twitter.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Ohh then what's the punishment for <a href="https://twitter.com/surya_14kumar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@surya_14kumar</a> ? Stand in front of The Wall? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvNZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvNZ</a> <a href="https://t.co/uofZNxUBRz">https://t.co/uofZNxUBRz</a>
— Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) <a href="https://twitter.com/WasimJaffer14/status/1464602290245963778?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
I do it everyday
— Surya Kumar Yadav (@surya_14kumar) <a href="https://twitter.com/surya_14kumar/status/1464614865775984641?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pujara-equals-unwanted-record-rahane-fails-again-as-india-struggle-in-kanpur-test-against-new-zealand-432481">Pujara equals unwanted record, Rahane fails again as India struggle in Kanpur Test against NZ</a>

Resuming their innings from 129/0, New Zealand were blown away by Indian spinners on Day 3 of the Kanpur Test on Saturday as Axar and R Ashwin combined to pick up eight wickets between them. While Axar picked up a five-wicket haul, Ashwin finished with excellent figures of 3/82. New Zealand could only manage 296 runs in reply to India's first innings total of 345 runs and conceded a lead of 49 runs.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pujara-equals-unwanted-record-rahane-fails-again-as-india-struggle-in-kanpur-test-against-new-zealand-432481">Pujara equals unwanted record, Rahane fails again as India struggle in Kanpur Test against NZ</a>

However, India failed to capitalise on the lead as they slumped under pressure on Day 4 of the ongoing Test match. The likes of Ajinkya Rahane (4), Chesteshwar Pujara (22) and Ravindra Jadeja (0) failed to deliver as India were left reeling at 51/5 on the penultimate day of the Kanpur Test.

Axar Patel wreaked havoc on New Zealand batting line-up on Day 3 of the ongoing first Test between India and the Kiwis in Kanpur on Saturday. Axar picked up a five-wicket haul as India bundled out the Kiwis for 296 runs in their first innings to gain a crucial lead of 49 runs ahead of their second innings.

Axar Patel wreaked havoc on New Zealand batting line-up on Day 3 of the ongoing first Test between India and the Kiwis in Kanpur on Saturday. Axar picked up a five-wicket haul as India bundled out the Kiwis for 296 runs in their first innings to gain a crucial lead of 49 runs ahead of their second innings. It was a brilliant spell from Axar, who spun a web around the New Zealand batting line-up and continuously troubled the Kiwi batters. Axar finished with brilliant figures of 5/62 in his 4 overs and was the pick of the bowlers for Team India in the series-opener at Kanpur. Former India cricketer Wasi Jaffer, who is known for his witty tweets and hilarious memes on Twitter, took a dig at Axar and pointed out his 'only mistake' in the Test match after his sensational spell. Jaffer, who is known for entertaining cricket fans on Twitter with his funny side, posted a picture of the match ball which was gifted to Axar after his five-wicket haul and said the only mistake the left-arm spinner made was putting the wrong date on the ball. "The only mistake Axar Patel made today was putting wrong date on the match ball. 27th November hai bapu @akshar2026 #INDvNZ," Jaffer wrote in a tweet. The only mistake Axar Patel made today was putting wrong date on the match ball. 27th November hai bapu @akshar2026 #INDvNZ pic.twitter.com/fJKGPHqIry — Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) November 27, 2021 × Axar was quick to respond to Jaffer's tweet and clarified that it was not him but his Indian teammate Suryakumar Yadav, who had put the wrong date on the match ball. Suryakumar also joined the banter on Twitter and reacted hilariously to Jaffer's idea of punishment for his mistake. The banter between the trio became the talk of town among cricket fans on Twitter. Ohh then what's the punishment for @surya_14kumar ? Stand in front of The Wall? #INDvNZ https://t.co/uofZNxUBRz — Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) November 27, 2021 × I do it everyday — Surya Kumar Yadav (@surya_14kumar) November 27, 2021 × Also Read: Pujara equals unwanted record, Rahane fails again as India struggle in Kanpur Test against NZ Resuming their innings from 129/0, New Zealand were blown away by Indian spinners on Day 3 of the Kanpur Test on Saturday as Axar and R Ashwin combined to pick up eight wickets between them. While Axar picked up a five-wicket haul, Ashwin finished with excellent figures of 3/82. New Zealand could only manage 296 runs in reply to India's first innings total of 345 runs and conceded a lead of 49 runs. Also Read: Pujara equals unwanted record, Rahane fails again as India struggle in Kanpur Test against NZ However, India failed to capitalise on the lead as they slumped under pressure on Day 4 of the ongoing Test match. The likes of Ajinkya Rahane (4), Chesteshwar Pujara (22) and Ravindra Jadeja (0) failed to deliver as India were left reeling at 51/5 on the penultimate day of the Kanpur Test.

Wasim Jaffer takes a dig at Axar Patel over his 'only mistake' in 1st Test, Suryakumar Yadav responds

Axar Patel continued his fine form with the ball for Team India on Saturday as he ran through New Zealand batting line-up on Day 3 of the onging first Test between the two sides in Kanpur. Axar bagged a five-wicket haul and finished with excellent figures of 5/62 as India bundled out the Kiwis for 296 runs in their first innings.

Resuming their first innings from 129/0, New Zealand could only add 22 runs on the board in the first session Day 3 before R Ashwin drew the first blood for India by getting rid of Will Young on 89. Umesh Yadav then sent Kane Williamson packing cheaply before Axar removed the likes of Ross Taylor, Henry Nicholls and Tom Latham in quick succession to leave the Kiwis reeling on 227/5.

Axar also bowled well economically and conceded only 1.82 runs per over while continuously troubling the visitors with his spin. The left-arm spinner dedicated his five-wicket haul to his father on the latter's birthday which was incidentally on Saturday.

Axar took to Twitter to share a picture with his father and wrote - "Number 5. Thanks everyone for the messages. This one's for my hero.&nbsp;Happy Birthday Dad," he captioned the post.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Number 5 
 
Thanks everyone for the messages. This one's for my hero. 
Happy Birthday Dad <a href="https://t.co/xzlemXFXKH">pic.twitter.com/xzlemXFXKH</a>
— Akshar Patel (@akshar2026) <a href="https://twitter.com/akshar2026/status/1464597663421247494?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

New Zealand's batting line-up fell like a pack of cards on Day 3 as the Indian spinners ran riot. While Axar picked up his fifth five-wicket haul in the last seven matches, Ashwin too bowled well and finished with figures of 3/82. The duo picked up eight wickets between them to hand a handy 49-run lead heading into their second innings.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-should-consult-government-before-sending-team-to-sa-amid-covid-19-threat-says-anurag-thakur-432416">BCCI should consult government before sending team to SA amid COVID-19 threat, says Anurag Thakur</a>

However, India got off to a poor start in their second innings as they lost opener Shubman Gill cheaply on just 1 off 3 balls. Kyle Jamieson cleaned up Gill to become the fastest bowler from New Zealand to reach fifty Test wickets. India ended Day 3 on 14/1 with a lead of 63 runs.

Axar Patel continued his fine form with the ball for Team India on Saturday as he ran through New Zealand batting line-up on Day 3 of the onging first Test between the two sides in Kanpur.

Axar Patel continued his fine form with the ball for Team India on Saturday as he ran through New Zealand batting line-up on Day 3 of the onging first Test between the two sides in Kanpur. Axar bagged a five-wicket haul and finished with excellent figures of 5/62 as India bundled out the Kiwis for 296 runs in their first innings. Resuming their first innings from 129/0, New Zealand could only add 22 runs on the board in the first session Day 3 before R Ashwin drew the first blood for India by getting rid of Will Young on 89. Umesh Yadav then sent Kane Williamson packing cheaply before Axar removed the likes of Ross Taylor, Henry Nicholls and Tom Latham in quick succession to leave the Kiwis reeling on 227/5. Axar also bowled well economically and conceded only 1.82 runs per over while continuously troubling the visitors with his spin. The left-arm spinner dedicated his five-wicket haul to his father on the latter's birthday which was incidentally on Saturday. Axar took to Twitter to share a picture with his father and wrote - "Number 5. Thanks everyone for the messages. This one's for my hero. Happy Birthday Dad," he captioned the post. Number 5 Thanks everyone for the messages. This one's for my hero. Happy Birthday Dad pic.twitter.com/xzlemXFXKH — Akshar Patel (@akshar2026) November 27, 2021 × New Zealand's batting line-up fell like a pack of cards on Day 3 as the Indian spinners ran riot. While Axar picked up his fifth five-wicket haul in the last seven matches, Ashwin too bowled well and finished with figures of 3/82. The duo picked up eight wickets between them to hand a handy 49-run lead heading into their second innings. Also Read: BCCI should consult government before sending team to SA amid COVID-19 threat, says Anurag Thakur However, India got off to a poor start in their second innings as they lost opener Shubman Gill cheaply on just 1 off 3 balls. Kyle Jamieson cleaned up Gill to become the fastest bowler from New Zealand to reach fifty Test wickets. India ended Day 3 on 14/1 with a lead of 63 runs.

'This one's for my hero': Axar Patel dedicates his five-wicket haul to his father on latter's birthday

Left-arm spinner Axar Patel claimed figures of 5-62 to help India grab a handy 49-run first-innings lead in the opening test against New Zealand on Saturday. The home side suffered a setback, however, with Shubman Gill`s late dismissal as they finished day three on 14-1 at Kanpur`s Green Park Stadium.

Kyle Jamieson bowled Gill for one and troubled Cheteshwar Pujara who remained unbeaten on nine. 
Opener Mayank Agarwal was on four not out with India 63 ahead in the first match of the two-test series.

"This is the kind of pitch where you can`t expect wickets all the time," Patel said after registering his fifth five-wicket haul in seven innings.

"You have to be consistent with your line and length. The odd ball turned and occasionally it kept low. I think the wicket will slow down further."

Earlier, after inducing several edges that fell agonisingly short of fielders, Ravichandran Ashwin ended India`s 66-over wait for a first wicket by ending a 151-run opening stand between Tom Latham and Will Young.

Young, having made a career-best 89, edged Ashwin and substitute wicketkeeper KS Bharat - replacing Wriddhiman Saha who was being treated for a stiff neck - grabbed a low catch.

Young was initially ruled not out, but India reviewed that decision, which had to be overturned after replays confirmed the edge.

Replying to India`s first-innings total of 345, New Zealand were cruising at 197-1 in the morning session with Latham approaching his hundred and skipper Kane Williamson in the middle.

Soon after India took the second new ball, however, seamer Umesh Yadav trapped Williamson lbw on the stroke of lunch.

Williamson, who made 18, reviewed the decision, but replays confirmed the ball would have hit the top of his middle stump. Patel ran through the New Zealand middle order removing Ross Taylor and Henry Nicholls and denying Latham his century.

Latham made 95 before stepping out against Patel, only to be stumped after a fine knock that included 10 fours. 
Ravindra Jadeja dismissed debutant Rachin Ravindra and Ashwin (3-82) claimed the last two wickets as New Zealand were bowled out for 296.

Left-arm spinner Axar Patel claimed figures of 5-62 to help India grab a handy 49-run first-innings lead in the opening test against New Zealand on Saturday. The home side suffered a setback, however, with Shubman Gill`s late dismissal as they finished day three on 14-1 at Kanpur`s Green Park Stadium.

Left-arm spinner Axar Patel claimed figures of 5-62 to help India grab a handy 49-run first-innings lead in the opening test against New Zealand on Saturday. The home side suffered a setback, however, with Shubman Gill`s late dismissal as they finished day three on 14-1 at Kanpur`s Green Park Stadium. Kyle Jamieson bowled Gill for one and troubled Cheteshwar Pujara who remained unbeaten on nine. Opener Mayank Agarwal was on four not out with India 63 ahead in the first match of the two-test series. "This is the kind of pitch where you can`t expect wickets all the time," Patel said after registering his fifth five-wicket haul in seven innings. "You have to be consistent with your line and length. The odd ball turned and occasionally it kept low. I think the wicket will slow down further." Earlier, after inducing several edges that fell agonisingly short of fielders, Ravichandran Ashwin ended India`s 66-over wait for a first wicket by ending a 151-run opening stand between Tom Latham and Will Young. Young, having made a career-best 89, edged Ashwin and substitute wicketkeeper KS Bharat - replacing Wriddhiman Saha who was being treated for a stiff neck - grabbed a low catch. Young was initially ruled not out, but India reviewed that decision, which had to be overturned after replays confirmed the edge. Replying to India`s first-innings total of 345, New Zealand were cruising at 197-1 in the morning session with Latham approaching his hundred and skipper Kane Williamson in the middle. Soon after India took the second new ball, however, seamer Umesh Yadav trapped Williamson lbw on the stroke of lunch. Williamson, who made 18, reviewed the decision, but replays confirmed the ball would have hit the top of his middle stump. Patel ran through the New Zealand middle order removing Ross Taylor and Henry Nicholls and denying Latham his century. Latham made 95 before stepping out against Patel, only to be stumped after a fine knock that included 10 fours. Ravindra Jadeja dismissed debutant Rachin Ravindra and Ashwin (3-82) claimed the last two wickets as New Zealand were bowled out for 296.

Axar Patel's five-wicket haul gives India handy lead over New Zealand on Day 3 of 1st Test

Ahead of the mega auction, reports have revealed which players will be retained by the Delhi Capitals (DC) franchise ahead of the Indian Premier League 2022 season. The upcoming edition of the IPL will see an expansion of the cash-rich league, with the addition of two new franchises based in Lucknow and Ahmedabad.&nbsp;

As per a report by ESPNcricinfo, DC will let go of one of their star players — Shreyas Iyer, who apparently wants to be the captain but the Delhi-based team has backed wicket-keeper-batter Rishabh Pant for the post. Iyer can still be bought by the two new franchises.&nbsp;

Apart from Pant, Delhi Capitals have decided to retain Prithvi Shaw, Axar Patel and pacer Anrich Nortje will also be retained as an overseas player.&nbsp;

The Indian cricket board drafted rules and guidelines for the auction ahead of the next edition of the IPL. As per the rules, each team is allowed to retain a maximum of four players. The two new teams - can buy up to three players from the non-retained lot by December 25.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-vvs-laxman-unimpressed-with-ajinkya-rahanes-shot-selection-after-day-1-of-kanpur-test-431926">Ind vs NZ: VVS Laxman unimpressed with Ajinkya Rahane's shot selection after Day 1 of Kanpur Test</a>

The existing teams have to submit their lists of retained players by November 30 and cricket pundits are speculating which players will be retained.&nbsp;

Another report revealed that Chennai Super Kings (CSK) will retain MS Dhoni for the next three IPL seasons. Apart from him, the franchise has retained all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja and opener Ruturaj Gaikwad, who played key role in CSK 2021 IPL title win.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/gill-iyer-or-siraj-irfan-pathan-names-vital-cog-for-team-india-while-playing-overseas-tests-431884">Gill, Iyer or Siraj? Irfan Pathan names 'vital' cog for Team India while playing overseas Tests</a>

The team is also in talks with England all-rounder Moeen Ali to come on board. The report also added that if Ali doesn't agree to stay, CSK will move on to England pacer Sam Curran as the fourth option to retain.&nbsp;

The reports also mentioned that in the list of retained players by the Mumbai Indians, Hardik Pandya and Suryakumar Yadav have no place. MI is likely to retain Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah and Ishan Kishan, all-rounder Kieron Pollard.&nbsp;

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) likely to retain Sunil Narine and Andre Russell and Varun Chakravarty.&nbsp;

Ahead of the mega auction, reports have revealed which players will be retained by the Delhi Capitals (DC) franchise ahead of the Indian Premier League 2022 season.

Ahead of the mega auction, reports have revealed which players will be retained by the Delhi Capitals (DC) franchise ahead of the Indian Premier League 2022 season. The upcoming edition of the IPL will see an expansion of the cash-rich league, with the addition of two new franchises based in Lucknow and Ahmedabad. As per a report by ESPNcricinfo, DC will let go of one of their star players — Shreyas Iyer, who apparently wants to be the captain but the Delhi-based team has backed wicket-keeper-batter Rishabh Pant for the post. Iyer can still be bought by the two new franchises. Apart from Pant, Delhi Capitals have decided to retain Prithvi Shaw, Axar Patel and pacer Anrich Nortje will also be retained as an overseas player. The Indian cricket board drafted rules and guidelines for the auction ahead of the next edition of the IPL. As per the rules, each team is allowed to retain a maximum of four players. The two new teams - can buy up to three players from the non-retained lot by December 25. ALSO READ | Ind vs NZ: VVS Laxman unimpressed with Ajinkya Rahane's shot selection after Day 1 of Kanpur Test The existing teams have to submit their lists of retained players by November 30 and cricket pundits are speculating which players will be retained. Another report revealed that Chennai Super Kings (CSK) will retain MS Dhoni for the next three IPL seasons. Apart from him, the franchise has retained all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja and opener Ruturaj Gaikwad, who played key role in CSK 2021 IPL title win. ALSO READ | Gill, Iyer or Siraj? Irfan Pathan names 'vital' cog for Team India while playing overseas Tests The team is also in talks with England all-rounder Moeen Ali to come on board. The report also added that if Ali doesn't agree to stay, CSK will move on to England pacer Sam Curran as the fourth option to retain. The reports also mentioned that in the list of retained players by the Mumbai Indians, Hardik Pandya and Suryakumar Yadav have no place. MI is likely to retain Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah and Ishan Kishan, all-rounder Kieron Pollard. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) likely to retain Sunil Narine and Andre Russell and Varun Chakravarty.

IPL 2022 auction: Delhi Capitals to release Shreyas Iyer as list of players to be retained released - Report

Former Pakistan cricketer Salman Butt praised Indian all-rounder Axar Patel and called him "extremely talented" but he also weighed in on the comparison between Patel and senior all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja stating that the latter is a "complete player".&nbsp;

The 27-year-old Axar was part of three-match T20I series between India and New Zealand that Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. won 3-0. Overall he picked four wickets in the series and emerged as a vital cog in the third and final match when he took two crucial wickets.&nbsp;

On his YouTube channel, Butt said, "Axar Patel is extremely talented, but Ravindra Jadeja is a complete player. Be it batting, bowling or fielding, he is an outstanding team man. So definitely when one player goes, his replacement comes."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-1st-test-live-streaming-when-and-where-to-watch-india-vs-new-zealand-match-live-online-431598">IND vs NZ, 1st Test live streaming: When and where to watch India vs New Zealand match live online?</a>

Butt compared Axar with Jadeja, who was not part of the T20I series as he was among the top players, who were rested.&nbsp;

"If you don't have Jadeja, then you have Axar Patel, but at the moment, I don’t think Axar and Jadeja are in the same league. Axar is very talented and can take that place in the future, but Jadeja is the better option right now," Butt stated.

"I think there are 2-3 very good spinners. Ashwin is one, Nathan Lyon is another. They are top-quality spinners. Yasir Shah has not played much of late. He took 200 wickets very quickly," Butt stated.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pat-cummins-interviewed-by-ca-for-test-captaincy-steve-smith-likely-to-be-pacers-deputy-reports-431553">Pat Cummins interviewed by CA for Test captaincy, Steve Smith likely to be pacer's deputy: Reports</a>

"I think there are very few spinners right now who can perform well in Test cricket across the world. Keshav Maharaj is an excellent spinner as well," he added.

Axar Patel and Ravindra Jadeja, both the all-rounders are part of India's squad for the two-match Test series against New Zealand, scheduled to start from Thursday (November 25).&nbsp;

Former Pakistan cricketer Salman Butt praised Indian all-rounder Axar Patel and called him "extremely talented" but he also weighed in on the comparison between Patel and senior all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja stating that the latter is a "complete player".

Former Pakistan cricketer Salman Butt praised Indian all-rounder Axar Patel and called him "extremely talented" but he also weighed in on the comparison between Patel and senior all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja stating that the latter is a "complete player". The 27-year-old Axar was part of three-match T20I series between India and New Zealand that Rohit Sharma & Co. won 3-0. Overall he picked four wickets in the series and emerged as a vital cog in the third and final match when he took two crucial wickets. On his YouTube channel, Butt said, "Axar Patel is extremely talented, but Ravindra Jadeja is a complete player. Be it batting, bowling or fielding, he is an outstanding team man. So definitely when one player goes, his replacement comes." ALSO READ | IND vs NZ, 1st Test live streaming: When and where to watch India vs New Zealand match live online? Butt compared Axar with Jadeja, who was not part of the T20I series as he was among the top players, who were rested. "If you don't have Jadeja, then you have Axar Patel, but at the moment, I don’t think Axar and Jadeja are in the same league. Axar is very talented and can take that place in the future, but Jadeja is the better option right now," Butt stated. "I think there are 2-3 very good spinners. Ashwin is one, Nathan Lyon is another. They are top-quality spinners. Yasir Shah has not played much of late. He took 200 wickets very quickly," Butt stated. ALSO READ | Pat Cummins interviewed by CA for Test captaincy, Steve Smith likely to be pacer's deputy: Reports "I think there are very few spinners right now who can perform well in Test cricket across the world. Keshav Maharaj is an excellent spinner as well," he added. Axar Patel and Ravindra Jadeja, both the all-rounders are part of India's squad for the two-match Test series against New Zealand, scheduled to start from Thursday (November 25).

'Don't think Axar and Jadeja are in the same league,' says former Pakistan cricketer

Rohit Sharma's 56-run knock followed by Axar Patel`s three-wicket haul helped India defeat New Zealand by 73 runs in the third and final T20I here at the Eden Gardens on Sunday.

With this win, India won the three-match series 3-0 and now both teams will square off in two-match Test series, beginning Thursday in Kanpur.

Chasing 185, New Zealand got off to a horrid start as Axar Patel took the first three wickets inside five overs.

Daryl Mitchell (5), Mark Chapman (0) and Glenn Phillips (0) all failed to leave a mark with the bat and the visitors were reduced to 30/3. Martin Guptill and Tim Seifert then got together at the crease and the duo retrieved the innings for the visitors.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shaheen-afridi-apologises-to-afif-hussain-for-directing-throw-at-him-fined-15-percent-of-match-fees-430983">Shaheen Afridi apologises to Afif Hussain for directing throw at him, fined 15 percent of match fees</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Clean sweep complete 💪 
 
India skittle New Zealand out for 111 and win the final T20I by 73 runs to take the series 3-0.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvNZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvNZ</a> | <a href="https://t.co/ZzuqcIe2Ih">https://t.co/ZzuqcIe2Ih</a> <a href="https://t.co/KJMmGe2G1D">pic.twitter.com/KJMmGe2G1D</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1462466530801823747?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 21, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Guptill brought up his half-century in the 10th over of the innings and the Kiwis needed 117 runs to win from 60 balls.

However, the right-hander Guptill (51) perished off the bowling of Yuzvendra Chahal and New Zealand was reduced to 69/4 in the 11th over.

New Zealand kept on losing wickets at regular intervals, and in the end, the visitors stumbled to a 73-run loss.

Earlier, Rohit Sharma played a knock of 56 runs as India posted 184/7. Opting to bat first, India got off to a flying start as openers Rohit Sharma and Ishan Kishan put on 69 runs inside the first six overs.

However, the introduction of Mitchell Santner paid off as he dismissed Kishan (29) and Suryakumar Yadav (0) in the seventh over, reducing India to 71/2.

Rishabh Pant (4) failed to leave a mark with the bat as he was sent back to the pavilion by Santner and India was reduced to 83/3 in the 9th over.

IN PICS:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-john-the-bookmaker-to-paines-sexting-controversies-that-have-tainted-australian-cricket-since-1981-430763">From 'John' the bookmaker to Paine's sexting: Controversies that have tainted Australian cricket since 1981</a>

However, Rohit kept on going all guns blazing and he brought up his half-century in the 11th over of the innings. As soon as he brought up the landmark, Rohit (56) was dismissed by Ish Sodhi, owing to a remarkable caught and bowled.

Shreyas Iyer and Venkatesh Iyer then got together at the crease and the duo did not let the momentum drop for the hosts. The duo put on 36 runs for the fifth wicket, however, this stand was broken by Trent Boult as he dismissed Venkatesh (20).

In the very next over, Adam Milne got the better of Shreyas (25) and India was reduced to 140/6. In the final three overs, the Men in Blue managed to add 36 more runs, taking the score past the 180-run mark.

Deepak Chahar played a cameo of 21 runs off just 8 balls as India posted more than a competitive total on the board.

Brief Scores:

India: 184 for 7 in 20 overs (Rohit Sharma 56; Mitchell Santner 3/27)

New Zealand: 111 all out in 17.2 overs (Martin Guptill 51; Axar Patel 3/9).&nbsp;

Rohit Sharma's 56-run knock followed by Axar Patel`s three-wicket haul helped India defeat New Zealand by 73 runs in the third and final T20I here at the Eden Gardens on Sunday.

Rohit Sharma's 56-run knock followed by Axar Patel`s three-wicket haul helped India defeat New Zealand by 73 runs in the third and final T20I here at the Eden Gardens on Sunday. With this win, India won the three-match series 3-0 and now both teams will square off in two-match Test series, beginning Thursday in Kanpur. Chasing 185, New Zealand got off to a horrid start as Axar Patel took the first three wickets inside five overs. Daryl Mitchell (5), Mark Chapman (0) and Glenn Phillips (0) all failed to leave a mark with the bat and the visitors were reduced to 30/3. Martin Guptill and Tim Seifert then got together at the crease and the duo retrieved the innings for the visitors. ALSO READ: Shaheen Afridi apologises to Afif Hussain for directing throw at him, fined 15 percent of match fees Clean sweep complete 💪 India skittle New Zealand out for 111 and win the final T20I by 73 runs to take the series 3-0.#INDvNZ | https://t.co/ZzuqcIe2Ih pic.twitter.com/KJMmGe2G1D — ICC (@ICC) November 21, 2021 × Guptill brought up his half-century in the 10th over of the innings and the Kiwis needed 117 runs to win from 60 balls. However, the right-hander Guptill (51) perished off the bowling of Yuzvendra Chahal and New Zealand was reduced to 69/4 in the 11th over. New Zealand kept on losing wickets at regular intervals, and in the end, the visitors stumbled to a 73-run loss. Earlier, Rohit Sharma played a knock of 56 runs as India posted 184/7. Opting to bat first, India got off to a flying start as openers Rohit Sharma and Ishan Kishan put on 69 runs inside the first six overs. However, the introduction of Mitchell Santner paid off as he dismissed Kishan (29) and Suryakumar Yadav (0) in the seventh over, reducing India to 71/2. Rishabh Pant (4) failed to leave a mark with the bat as he was sent back to the pavilion by Santner and India was reduced to 83/3 in the 9th over. IN PICS: From 'John' the bookmaker to Paine's sexting: Controversies that have tainted Australian cricket since 1981 However, Rohit kept on going all guns blazing and he brought up his half-century in the 11th over of the innings. As soon as he brought up the landmark, Rohit (56) was dismissed by Ish Sodhi, owing to a remarkable caught and bowled. Shreyas Iyer and Venkatesh Iyer then got together at the crease and the duo did not let the momentum drop for the hosts. The duo put on 36 runs for the fifth wicket, however, this stand was broken by Trent Boult as he dismissed Venkatesh (20). In the very next over, Adam Milne got the better of Shreyas (25) and India was reduced to 140/6. In the final three overs, the Men in Blue managed to add 36 more runs, taking the score past the 180-run mark. Deepak Chahar played a cameo of 21 runs off just 8 balls as India posted more than a competitive total on the board. Brief Scores: India: 184 for 7 in 20 overs (Rohit Sharma 56; Mitchell Santner 3/27) New Zealand: 111 all out in 17.2 overs (Martin Guptill 51; Axar Patel 3/9).

INDvsNZ, 3rd T20I: Rohit Sharma and Axar Patel help India thrash New Zealand by 73 runs, whitewash series

Shardul Thakur has been added to the main squad of the Indian cricket team for the upcoming T20 World Cup, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) informed after discussion between team management and the All-India Senior Selection Committee.

Shardul Thakur has been added to the main squad of the Indian cricket team for the upcoming T20 World Cup, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) informed after discussion between team management and the All-India Senior Selection Committee. Thakur has replaced Axar Patel, who will now be on the list of stand-by players. Men's T20 World Cup will get underway from October 17 and Virat Kohli-led team India will start their campaign with a heavyweight clash against Pakistan on October 24 in Dubai. In a statement, BCCI also mentioned the names of cricketers who will join the Indian cricket team's bubble in Dubai and will assist them in their preparations. Those players are: Avesh Khan, Umran Malik, Harshal Patel, Lukman Meriwala, Venkatesh Iyer, Karn Sharma, Shahbaz Ahmed and K. Gowtham. ALSO READ | 'I have no respect': Universe Boss Chris Gayle slams former West Indies legend for saying 'negative things' The tournament was scheduled to be held in India but the COVID-19 situation in the country forced organisers to shift it to the United Arab Emirates and Oman. India's squad for ICC T20 World Cup: Virat Kohli (captain), Rohit Sharma (vice-captain), KL Rahul, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Rahul Chahar, Ravichandran Ashwin, Shardul Thakur, Varun Chakravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Mohammad Shami Stand-by players: Shreyas Iyer, Deepak Chahar, Axar Patel 🚨 NEWS 🚨: Shardul Thakur replaces Axar Patel in #TeamIndia's World Cup squad. #T20WorldCup More Details 🔽 — BCCI (@BCCI) October 13, 2021 ×

T20 World Cup: Shardul Thakur replaces Axar Patel to join Team India's main squad

IPL 2021: Rishabh's Delhi fly high, Rohit's Mumbai falter - A look at DC vs MI clash in pics

Axar Patel, the all-rounder of Delhi Capitals said that the team will look to repeat what they did in the previous season when it reached its maiden final and will build on the "happy memories". The team will try to go one step further in the final this season.&nbsp;

Axar was quoted as saying in a media release, "When it was announced that the second half of the tournament will be held in the UAE, I thought about our performance the last time we were here."&nbsp;

In IPL 2020, DC reached the final after a terrific run in the season but lost to Mumbai Indians in the summit clash. Axar was a vital cog for the team as he had picked up nine wickets in 15 matches last season.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-to-step-down-as-rcb-captain-after-ipl-2021-414253">Virat Kohli to step down as RCB captain after IPL 2021</a>

"We have happy memories from that tournament as we reached our first-ever IPL final. We are looking to repeat our performance and hopefully, just go one step further in the final this season," he added.&nbsp;

Talking about acclimatising with the conditions in Dubai, Axar said, "It's been a drastic change for us as far as the weather is concerned. It was quite cold in England and now we are getting used to the heat here."

"When we stood on our balconies during quarantine, we got an idea about the heat, but we got to know the full extent of the weather conditions when we started practising in the nets. We are looking to get used to the conditions in the next 2-3 days," he said.

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-2021-uae-leg-all-teams-and-their-revised-squad-list-414218">IPL 2021 UAE leg: All teams and their revised squad list</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Bapu is back with the DC family and he couldn't be happier 🤩 
 
📹 | <a href="https://twitter.com/akshar2026?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@akshar2026</a> talks about happy memories of playing at these venues and the drastic change in weather conditions (and time zones 😆) from the UK to the UAE.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YehHaiNayiDilli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#YehHaiNayiDilli</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2021</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CapitalsUnplugged?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CapitalsUnplugged</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/OctaFX?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@OctaFX</a> <a href="https://t.co/mBSelXkjif">pic.twitter.com/mBSelXkjif</a>
— Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiCapitals/status/1439536881457254401?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

When asked about his personal goals for the remainder of the IPL season, Axar said, "My personal goals are always aligned with the team goals.

"I always think about what the team needs and then set my personal goals accordingly. I always carry out my preparations according to the team's requirements. And personally, I just look to get better with every match in every season."

Axar Patel, the all-rounder of Delhi Capitals said that the team will look to repeat what they did in the previous season when it reached its maiden final and will build on the "happy memories".

Axar Patel, the all-rounder of Delhi Capitals said that the team will look to repeat what they did in the previous season when it reached its maiden final and will build on the "happy memories". The team will try to go one step further in the final this season. Axar was quoted as saying in a media release, "When it was announced that the second half of the tournament will be held in the UAE, I thought about our performance the last time we were here." In IPL 2020, DC reached the final after a terrific run in the season but lost to Mumbai Indians in the summit clash. Axar was a vital cog for the team as he had picked up nine wickets in 15 matches last season. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli to step down as RCB captain after IPL 2021 "We have happy memories from that tournament as we reached our first-ever IPL final. We are looking to repeat our performance and hopefully, just go one step further in the final this season," he added. Talking about acclimatising with the conditions in Dubai, Axar said, "It's been a drastic change for us as far as the weather is concerned. It was quite cold in England and now we are getting used to the heat here." "When we stood on our balconies during quarantine, we got an idea about the heat, but we got to know the full extent of the weather conditions when we started practising in the nets. We are looking to get used to the conditions in the next 2-3 days," he said. IN PICS | IPL 2021 UAE leg: All teams and their revised squad list Bapu is back with the DC family and he couldn't be happier 🤩 📹 | @akshar2026 talks about happy memories of playing at these venues and the drastic change in weather conditions (and time zones 😆) from the UK to the UAE.#YehHaiNayiDilli #IPL2021 #CapitalsUnplugged @OctaFX pic.twitter.com/mBSelXkjif — Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) September 19, 2021 × When asked about his personal goals for the remainder of the IPL season, Axar said, "My personal goals are always aligned with the team goals. "I always think about what the team needs and then set my personal goals accordingly. I always carry out my preparations according to the team's requirements. And personally, I just look to get better with every match in every season."

Delhi Capitals will look to build on 'happy memories' from IPL 2020 and go a step further, says Axar Patel

Delhi Capitals pulled off a close match against the&nbsp;Sunrisers Hyderabad in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 in Chennai at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Sunday. After the scores were levelled at 159 by the Sunrisers Hyderabad at the end of their designated 20 overs, Delhi Capitals all-rounder Axar Patel put his hand up to help his team seal the deal in the Super Over.

"After the scores were levelled, I told Rishabh (Pant) that I could bowl well on this wicket, and he could consider me for the Super Over as well. I knew that it was not going to be easy for the batsmen to score runs on this pitch. Then Rishabh spoke to Ricky (Ponting) and they decided to give the ball to me," said the 27-year-old, who conceded just 7 runs in the Super Over.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Axar, who played his first match after recovering from COVID-19, said that he was emotional to be playing alongside his teammates again, "I was nervous before the game, but once I did some warm-up sessions with the team, I was fine. I was emotional to be amongst my close friends and teammates again since I was back in action after being in quarantine for 20 days, but everyone backed me to do well, and they trusted me even more than I trusted myself."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-first-sport-to-announce-qualifiers-for-commonwealth-games-380532" hreflang="en">Cricket first sport to announce qualifiers for Commonwealth Games</a>

When asked if he changed his preparation plan for the match against SRH because of the 20-day quarantine period, Axar said, "I didn't change my preparation plan for this match in anyway. I followed the routine that I usually follow. I didn't think much about the fact that I am coming out of 20 days of quarantine. I just wanted to carry forward the rhythm I had in the Test series against England. and I wanted to stay in a positive frame of mind. Yes, I did practice more than usual because I came back after a break from cricket, but I followed my usual routines during practice."

The all-rounder expressed that the Delhi Capitals, who defeated Mumbai Indians in their last match, couldn't have asked for a better outing in Chennai, "We won two out of two matches in Chennai, so we couldn't have put in a better performance at this venue. And when a close match falls in the team's favour, then the team's confidence gets a major boost. We haven't discussed about our plans for the Ahmedabad leg yet. We are taking one match at a time and staying in the present as much as possible."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kkrs-pat-cummins-donates-50000-to-pm-cares-fund-for-oxygen-supplies-urges-ipl-players-to-contribute-380530" hreflang="en">KKR's Pat Cummins donates $50,000 to PM Cares Fund for oxygen supplies, urges IPL players to contribute</a>

The Delhi Capitals are set to face off against the&nbsp;Royal Challengers Bangalore&nbsp;in their next encounter at the&nbsp;Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad on Tuesday, 27 April 2021. The Delhi franchise will play a total of four matches in&nbsp;Ahmedabad.

Delhi Capitals pulled off a close match against the Sunrisers Hyderabad in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 in Chennai at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Sunday.

Delhi Capitals pulled off a close match against the Sunrisers Hyderabad in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 in Chennai at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Sunday. After the scores were levelled at 159 by the Sunrisers Hyderabad at the end of their designated 20 overs, Delhi Capitals all-rounder Axar Patel put his hand up to help his team seal the deal in the Super Over. "After the scores were levelled, I told Rishabh (Pant) that I could bowl well on this wicket, and he could consider me for the Super Over as well. I knew that it was not going to be easy for the batsmen to score runs on this pitch. Then Rishabh spoke to Ricky (Ponting) and they decided to give the ball to me," said the 27-year-old, who conceded just 7 runs in the Super Over. Axar, who played his first match after recovering from COVID-19, said that he was emotional to be playing alongside his teammates again, "I was nervous before the game, but once I did some warm-up sessions with the team, I was fine. I was emotional to be amongst my close friends and teammates again since I was back in action after being in quarantine for 20 days, but everyone backed me to do well, and they trusted me even more than I trusted myself." ALSO READ: Cricket first sport to announce qualifiers for Commonwealth Games When asked if he changed his preparation plan for the match against SRH because of the 20-day quarantine period, Axar said, "I didn't change my preparation plan for this match in anyway. I followed the routine that I usually follow. I didn't think much about the fact that I am coming out of 20 days of quarantine. I just wanted to carry forward the rhythm I had in the Test series against England. and I wanted to stay in a positive frame of mind. Yes, I did practice more than usual because I came back after a break from cricket, but I followed my usual routines during practice." The all-rounder expressed that the Delhi Capitals, who defeated Mumbai Indians in their last match, couldn't have asked for a better outing in Chennai, "We won two out of two matches in Chennai, so we couldn't have put in a better performance at this venue. And when a close match falls in the team's favour, then the team's confidence gets a major boost. We haven't discussed about our plans for the Ahmedabad leg yet. We are taking one match at a time and staying in the present as much as possible." ALSO READ: KKR's Pat Cummins donates $50,000 to PM Cares Fund for oxygen supplies, urges IPL players to contribute The Delhi Capitals are set to face off against the Royal Challengers Bangalore in their next encounter at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad on Tuesday, 27 April 2021. The Delhi franchise will play a total of four matches in Ahmedabad.

IPL 2021: Teammates' extensive backing helped me in my comeback match, says Axar Patel

Delhi Capitals all-rounder Axar Patel is yet to feature in the ongoing Indian Premier League after testing positive for COVID-19 earlier this month. But, now the Gujarat-based cricketer joined his DC squad after testing negative for the virus.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-decoding-royal-challengers-bangalores-unbeaten-run-in-the-league-379469" hreflang="en">IPL 2021 - Decoding Royal Challengers Bangalore's unbeaten run in the league</a>

Upon return, Axar Patel recalled his experience while making his Test debut for Team India and said that this is his best moment after playing the longest format of the game. He said: "It has been really great to come out of quarantine after 20 days and meet my teammates. This is the best moment in my life after my Test debut. I was alone in my room for 20 days and I didn't have anything to do. I was watching the matches and one good thing was that our team won most of the matches, so I got even more motivated to re-join the side. It's been great to start practicing with the team and I am happy about my preparations."

Patel then talked about attending his first training session with the team. He said: "I have started batting and bowling practice, but I haven't pushed too hard during training. I have spoken to the doctors about how I should go about my training, and I am carrying out my practice according to their suggestions."

When asked about the directions given to him by Captain Rishabh Pant and Head Coach Ricky Ponting, Axar said, "Rishabh and Ricky sir have told me to train keeping in mind about how my body is reacting to practice drills in the next two-three days. We are not thinking ahead too much at the moment, we are just focusing on how my body is reacting to training sessions."

Delhi Capitals all-rounder Axar Patel is yet to feature in the ongoing Indian Premier League after testing positive for COVID-19 earlier this month. But, now the Gujarat-based cricketer joined his DC squad after testing negative for the virus.

Delhi Capitals all-rounder Axar Patel is yet to feature in the ongoing Indian Premier League after testing positive for COVID-19 earlier this month. But, now the Gujarat-based cricketer joined his DC squad after testing negative for the virus. ALSO READ: IPL 2021 - Decoding Royal Challengers Bangalore's unbeaten run in the league Upon return, Axar Patel recalled his experience while making his Test debut for Team India and said that this is his best moment after playing the longest format of the game. He said: "It has been really great to come out of quarantine after 20 days and meet my teammates. This is the best moment in my life after my Test debut. I was alone in my room for 20 days and I didn't have anything to do. I was watching the matches and one good thing was that our team won most of the matches, so I got even more motivated to re-join the side. It's been great to start practicing with the team and I am happy about my preparations." Patel then talked about attending his first training session with the team. He said: "I have started batting and bowling practice, but I haven't pushed too hard during training. I have spoken to the doctors about how I should go about my training, and I am carrying out my practice according to their suggestions." When asked about the directions given to him by Captain Rishabh Pant and Head Coach Ricky Ponting, Axar said, "Rishabh and Ricky sir have told me to train keeping in mind about how my body is reacting to practice drills in the next two-three days. We are not thinking ahead too much at the moment, we are just focusing on how my body is reacting to training sessions."

IPL 2021- 'Best moment in my life after my Test debut': Axar Patel after coming out of quarantine

Delhi Capitals have suffered another blow as their star all-rounder Axar Patel has tested positive for COVID-19 with less than a week to go for the Indian Premier League.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-franchises-call-for-stricter-protocols-after-groundsmen-test-positive-for-covid-19-375141" hreflang="en">IPL 2021- Franchises call for stricter protocols after groundsmen test positive for COVID-19</a>

According to ANI, the Delhi Capitals camp confirmed that the spinner has contracted the virus. "Unfortunately, Axar has tested positive. He is isolating and all protocols are being followed," the source told ANI.

Axar Patel becomes the second player after KKR's Nitish Rana to have tested positive for the dreadful virus. Rana, however, returned to the squad after testing negative.&nbsp;

As per BCCI's COVID guidelines for IPL, the concerned person must isolate in the designated area outside the bio-secure environment for a minimum of 10 days from the first day of symptoms or the date of collection of the sample which resulted in a positive RT-PCR report, whichever is earlier.

The news comes after eight ground staff members at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium tested positive for COVID-19.

The Wankhede Stadium is set to host 10 matches in the cash-rich T20 league from April 10 to 25.

Chennai Super Kings and Delhi Capitals will play the first match at Wankhede on April 10.&nbsp;

Delhi Capitals have suffered another blow as their star all-rounder Axar Patel has tested positive for COVID-19 with less than a week to go for the Indian Premier League.

Delhi Capitals have suffered another blow as their star all-rounder Axar Patel has tested positive for COVID-19 with less than a week to go for the Indian Premier League. ALSO READ: IPL 2021- Franchises call for stricter protocols after groundsmen test positive for COVID-19 According to ANI, the Delhi Capitals camp confirmed that the spinner has contracted the virus. "Unfortunately, Axar has tested positive. He is isolating and all protocols are being followed," the source told ANI. Axar Patel becomes the second player after KKR's Nitish Rana to have tested positive for the dreadful virus. Rana, however, returned to the squad after testing negative. As per BCCI's COVID guidelines for IPL, the concerned person must isolate in the designated area outside the bio-secure environment for a minimum of 10 days from the first day of symptoms or the date of collection of the sample which resulted in a positive RT-PCR report, whichever is earlier. The news comes after eight ground staff members at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium tested positive for COVID-19. The Wankhede Stadium is set to host 10 matches in the cash-rich T20 league from April 10 to 25. Chennai Super Kings and Delhi Capitals will play the first match at Wankhede on April 10.

IPL 2021- Delhi Capitals' all-rounder Axar Patel tests positive for COVID-19

Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has lavished high praise on Team India following Virat Kohli and Co's 3-1 series win against England as the 'Rawalpindi Express' termed&nbsp;visitors’&nbsp;loss&nbsp;as “embarrassing”.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Akhtar said it would have been better had England focused on their batting and crib less about the pitch. While none of the England members&nbsp;criticised&nbsp;the pitch in public, former England captains such as Michael Vaughan, Andrew Strauss and Alastair Cook were critical of the pitch produced in Chennai and Ahmedabad.&nbsp;

“All in all, it was an embarrassing defeat for the England team, and they have got a reality check in India. But they need to now learn the art of playing spin in the sub-continent well. Not sure, how are they going to lift themselves up from this humiliating defeat and motivate themselves to play better,” Shoaib Akhtar said on his&nbsp;Youtube&nbsp;channel.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-new-zealand-southampton-leads-race-to-host-icc-world-test-championship-final-368557" hreflang="en">India vs New Zealand: Southampton leads race to host ICC World Test Championship final</a>

Akhtar defended the pitches in Ahmedabad as the former Pakistan speedster asked while the visitors struggled, how come India managed to post big totals like 365 on the scoreboard?&nbsp;&nbsp;

“While many might talk about the wickets in the series, but look how India scored 365. They also played on the same wickets, where the England batsmen struggled. If Rishabh Pant and Washington Sundar can score runs, why can’t the English? With utmost ease, India has beaten England in the series, and sealed a spot in the final of the World Test Championship final,” Akhtar added.&nbsp;

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ind-vs-eng-rishabh-pants-magnificent-century-against-jimmy-anderson-and-co-368226" hreflang="en">IND vs ENG: Rishabh Pant's magnificent century against Jimmy Anderson and Co.</a>

Akthar praised&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;Patel highly following his heroics with the ball against England as he said that the 27-year-old might go on to become the quickest to 100 Test wickets.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Not only did he get a suitable wicket to bowl on, but he is an intelligent bowler too. He wouldn’t have given a chance to the English players when the control was in his hands, and that is what he did. If he keeps getting a few series like this, he might just become fastest bowler to 100 wickets. Having said that, England should have played him better,” he added.&nbsp;

India and England will next play five T20Is starting from March 12 before locking horns in a three-match ODI series.&nbsp;

Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has lavished high praise on Team India following Virat Kohli and Co's 3-1 series win against England as the 'Rawalpindi Express' termed visitors’ loss as “embarrassing”.

Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has lavished high praise on Team India following Virat Kohli and Co's 3-1 series win against England as the 'Rawalpindi Express' termed visitors’ loss as “embarrassing”. Akhtar said it would have been better had England focused on their batting and crib less about the pitch. While none of the England members criticised the pitch in public, former England captains such as Michael Vaughan, Andrew Strauss and Alastair Cook were critical of the pitch produced in Chennai and Ahmedabad. “All in all, it was an embarrassing defeat for the England team, and they have got a reality check in India. But they need to now learn the art of playing spin in the sub-continent well. Not sure, how are they going to lift themselves up from this humiliating defeat and motivate themselves to play better,” Shoaib Akhtar said on his Youtube channel. ALSO READ: India vs New Zealand: Southampton leads race to host ICC World Test Championship final Akhtar defended the pitches in Ahmedabad as the former Pakistan speedster asked while the visitors struggled, how come India managed to post big totals like 365 on the scoreboard? “While many might talk about the wickets in the series, but look how India scored 365. They also played on the same wickets, where the England batsmen struggled. If Rishabh Pant and Washington Sundar can score runs, why can’t the English? With utmost ease, India has beaten England in the series, and sealed a spot in the final of the World Test Championship final,” Akhtar added. IN PICS | IND vs ENG: Rishabh Pant's magnificent century against Jimmy Anderson and Co. Akthar praised Axar Patel highly following his heroics with the ball against England as he said that the 27-year-old might go on to become the quickest to 100 Test wickets. “Not only did he get a suitable wicket to bowl on, but he is an intelligent bowler too. He wouldn’t have given a chance to the English players when the control was in his hands, and that is what he did. If he keeps getting a few series like this, he might just become fastest bowler to 100 wickets. Having said that, England should have played him better,” he added. India and England will next play five T20Is starting from March 12 before locking horns in a three-match ODI series.

'Embarrassing': Shoaib Akhtar gives his verdict on England's 3-1 series defeat against India

Former Indian skipper and batting legend Sunil Gavaskar lauded Ravi Ashwin and Axar Patel for their performance in the series against England. As per the cricketing stalwart, both the bowlers have spun a web around the England batters the entire series.&nbsp;

IN PICS:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/india-vs-england-4th-test-virat-and-co-crush-england-to-book-a-berth-in-world-test-championship-finals-368450" hreflang="en">India vs England, 4th Test: Virat and Co. crush visitors to book a berth in World Test Championship finals</a>

Speaking on Star Sports during the Tea Break on Day 3, Gavaskar said that England batsmen have not been able to find answers to combat Indian spinners.

"They just have spun a web around the England batsman in the entire series, except maybe for the first time. The ball has spun a little bit and they have made the most use of that," Gavaskar said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-4th-test-india-go-on-top-of-icc-test-rankings-after-innings-win-over-england-368461" hreflang="en">IND vs ENG, 4th Test: India go on top of ICC Test rankings after innings win over England</a>

"In fact, there is little more in it for them. They have bowled straight deliveries, the one that bowls with the arm, with Ashwin being such a specialist at it. And then Axar Patel doesn't turn the ball much, but when he lands it in a particular area, it gets a turn, so the batsman does not know what to do," he explained.

"It has been something England batsman have not been able to find answers to combat both these spinners," he signed off.

Both, Ashwin and Axar, picked a fifer as England were bowled out on 135, giving India an innings victory. Virat and Co. won the series 3-1 and will face Kane Williamson's New Zealand in the World Test Championship finals.&nbsp;

Former Indian skipper and batting legend Sunil Gavaskar lauded Ravi Ashwin and Axar Patel for their performance in the series against England. As per the cricketing stalwart, both the bowlers have spun a web around the England batters the entire series.

Former Indian skipper and batting legend Sunil Gavaskar lauded Ravi Ashwin and Axar Patel for their performance in the series against England. As per the cricketing stalwart, both the bowlers have spun a web around the England batters the entire series. IN PICS: India vs England, 4th Test: Virat and Co. crush visitors to book a berth in World Test Championship finals Speaking on Star Sports during the Tea Break on Day 3, Gavaskar said that England batsmen have not been able to find answers to combat Indian spinners. "They just have spun a web around the England batsman in the entire series, except maybe for the first time. The ball has spun a little bit and they have made the most use of that," Gavaskar said. ALSO READ: IND vs ENG, 4th Test: India go on top of ICC Test rankings after innings win over England "In fact, there is little more in it for them. They have bowled straight deliveries, the one that bowls with the arm, with Ashwin being such a specialist at it. And then Axar Patel doesn't turn the ball much, but when he lands it in a particular area, it gets a turn, so the batsman does not know what to do," he explained. "It has been something England batsman have not been able to find answers to combat both these spinners," he signed off. Both, Ashwin and Axar, picked a fifer as England were bowled out on 135, giving India an innings victory. Virat and Co. won the series 3-1 and will face Kane Williamson's New Zealand in the World Test Championship finals.

'They just have spun a web around': Sunil Gavaskar lauds Axar and Ashwin's performance in series

Team India are off to a good start in the fourth Test against England as Axar Patel cleaned up Dom Sibley and Zak Crawley early on Day 1. Let's look at the pitch conditions at the Narendra Modi Stadium on the Day 1 of the fourth Test.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/do-we-play-matches-so-that-they-last-5-days-virat-kohli-hits-out-at-pitch-critics-367676" hreflang="en">'Do we play matches so that they last 5 days?': Virat Kohli hits out at pitch critics</a>

The pitch in the fourth Test has more grass on it than the last match, which means it might not assist spin from Day 1. But the pitch from Reliance end has a little less grass, and it's a bit drier, which is ideal for a spinner.&nbsp;

Commentators Deep Dasgupta and Ajit Agarkar produced the pitch report, which said: "It looks a little grassier than the last Test at the Adani end, and it feels cold so there is a bit of moisture. The Reliance end has a little less grass, and it's a bit drier. The Reliance end is likely to spin a lot more. The humidity is low, so the moisture will dry up really soon too. Hopefully, the landing area holds together. It's only a matter of time before this pitch starts to turn as well."

England skipper Joe Root won the toss and chose to bat, however, the visitors are on backfoot very early in the match as Axar removed the openers.&nbsp;

Team India went into the match after making just one change, they brought in Mohammed Siraj in place of Jasprit Bumrah. England, on the other hand, left out two fast bowlers in Jofra Archer and Stuart Broad and brought in Dan Lawrence and Dom Bess.

Team India are off to a good start in the fourth Test against England as Axar Patel cleaned up Dom Sibley and Zak Crawley early on Day 1. Let's look at the pitch conditions at the Narendra Modi Stadium on the Day 1 of the fourth Test.

Team India are off to a good start in the fourth Test against England as Axar Patel cleaned up Dom Sibley and Zak Crawley early on Day 1. Let's look at the pitch conditions at the Narendra Modi Stadium on the Day 1 of the fourth Test. ALSO READ: 'Do we play matches so that they last 5 days?': Virat Kohli hits out at pitch critics The pitch in the fourth Test has more grass on it than the last match, which means it might not assist spin from Day 1. But the pitch from Reliance end has a little less grass, and it's a bit drier, which is ideal for a spinner. Commentators Deep Dasgupta and Ajit Agarkar produced the pitch report, which said: "It looks a little grassier than the last Test at the Adani end, and it feels cold so there is a bit of moisture. The Reliance end has a little less grass, and it's a bit drier. The Reliance end is likely to spin a lot more. The humidity is low, so the moisture will dry up really soon too. Hopefully, the landing area holds together. It's only a matter of time before this pitch starts to turn as well." England skipper Joe Root won the toss and chose to bat, however, the visitors are on backfoot very early in the match as Axar removed the openers. Team India went into the match after making just one change, they brought in Mohammed Siraj in place of Jasprit Bumrah. England, on the other hand, left out two fast bowlers in Jofra Archer and Stuart Broad and brought in Dan Lawrence and Dom Bess.

IND vs ENG, 4th Test: All you need to know about the pitch in Narendra Modi Stadium

Team India off-spinner Axar Patel was adjudged the 'Player of the Match' after producing the best bowling figures in a day-night Test at the Narendra Modi Stadium at Motera. The off-spinner took 11 wickets for 70 runs to hand England a 10-wicket defeat on Thursday.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ravichandran-ashwin-becomes-second-fastest-to-400-test-wickets-only-fourth-indian-to-achieve-milestone-366225" hreflang="en">Ravichandran Ashwin becomes second-fastest to 400 Test wickets, only fourth Indian to achieve milestone</a>&nbsp;

After the match, the two local boys, Hardik Pandya and Axar Patel, came together for a light-hearted interview.&nbsp;

While both of them were discussing the feeling of playing in front of the home crowd, Indian skipper Virat Kohli crashed the interview and praised Axar Patel in Gujurati. To which Hardik said: "He is trying to learn a bit of Gujarati these days."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
DO NOT MISS: <a href="https://twitter.com/hardikpandya7?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@hardikpandya7</a> interviews man of the moment <a href="https://twitter.com/akshar2026?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@akshar2026</a>.👍👍 - By <a href="https://twitter.com/RajalArora?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RajalArora</a> 
 
P.S.: <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> skipper <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> makes a special appearance 😎<a href="https://twitter.com/Paytm?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Paytm</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PinkBallTest?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PinkBallTest</a> 
 
Watch the full interview 🎥 👇 <a href="https://t.co/kytMdM4JzN">https://t.co/kytMdM4JzN</a> <a href="https://t.co/QLJWMkCNM5">pic.twitter.com/QLJWMkCNM5</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1365149591293820929?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

India on Thursday took a 2-1 lead in the four-test series after defeating England by 10 wickets at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad.

IN PICS|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/team-india-beat-england-in-pink-ball-test-at-worlds-largest-cricket-stadium-366282">Team India beat England in pink-ball Test at world's largest cricket stadium</a>

England looked clueless against Ravichandran Ashwin and Axar Patel as the spin duo picked up a combined 18 wickets in both innings to bundle England out for 112 and 82 respectively.

While Ashwin went on to achieve the monumental feat of 400 Test wickets – becoming only the third Indian to touch the landmark – local boy Axar Patel, playing just his second Test, registered his maiden 10-wicket-haul in Test cricket.

Team India off-spinner Axar Patel was adjudged the 'Player of the Match' after producing the best bowling figures in a day-night Test at the Narendra Modi Stadium at Motera.

Team India off-spinner Axar Patel was adjudged the 'Player of the Match' after producing the best bowling figures in a day-night Test at the Narendra Modi Stadium at Motera. The off-spinner took 11 wickets for 70 runs to hand England a 10-wicket defeat on Thursday. ALSO READ: Ravichandran Ashwin becomes second-fastest to 400 Test wickets, only fourth Indian to achieve milestone After the match, the two local boys, Hardik Pandya and Axar Patel, came together for a light-hearted interview. While both of them were discussing the feeling of playing in front of the home crowd, Indian skipper Virat Kohli crashed the interview and praised Axar Patel in Gujurati. To which Hardik said: "He is trying to learn a bit of Gujarati these days." DO NOT MISS: @hardikpandya7 interviews man of the moment @akshar2026.👍👍 - By @RajalArora P.S.: #TeamIndia skipper @imVkohli makes a special appearance 😎@Paytm #INDvENG #PinkBallTest Watch the full interview 🎥 👇 https://t.co/kytMdM4JzN pic.twitter.com/QLJWMkCNM5 — BCCI (@BCCI) February 26, 2021 × India on Thursday took a 2-1 lead in the four-test series after defeating England by 10 wickets at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad. IN PICS| Team India beat England in pink-ball Test at world's largest cricket stadium England looked clueless against Ravichandran Ashwin and Axar Patel as the spin duo picked up a combined 18 wickets in both innings to bundle England out for 112 and 82 respectively. While Ashwin went on to achieve the monumental feat of 400 Test wickets – becoming only the third Indian to touch the landmark – local boy Axar Patel, playing just his second Test, registered his maiden 10-wicket-haul in Test cricket.

WATCH: Virat Kohli crashes Axar-Hardik's interview; compliments Patel in Gujarati

India on Thursday took a 2-1 lead in the four-test series after defeating England by 10 wickets at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad. <o:p></o:p>

England looked clueless against Ravichandran Ashwin and Axar Patel as the spin duo picked up a combined 18 wickets in both innings to bundle England out for 112 and 82 respectively.<o:p></o:p>

While Ashwin went on to achieve the monumental feat of 400 Test wickets – becoming only the third Indian to touch the landmark – local boy Axar Patel, playing just his second Test, registered his maiden 10-wicket-haul in Test cricket. <o:p></o:p>

The two teams went with contrasting decisions in terms of team selection. England picked up three pacers in their playing XI whereas India went with three spinners – suggesting both the captains read the pitch differently.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ravichandran-ashwin-becomes-second-fastest-to-400-test-wickets-only-fourth-indian-to-achieve-milestone-366225" hreflang="en">Ravichandran Ashwin becomes second-fastest to 400 Test wickets, only fourth Indian to achieve milestone</a><o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>

Having won the toss, England opted to bat first and India’s decision to play three spinners came to fruition as captain Virat Kohli handed the ball to Axar in the sixth over of Day 1. While Axar and Ashwin spun the web around the English batters, the crowd inside the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium went abuzz. <o:p></o:p>

Zak Crawley was the only batsman to achieve a half-century in the first innings, with the second-highest being 17 by Joe Root as England finished the innings with just 112 on board. Axar picked up six, Ashwin three and Ishant – playing his 100th Test – one. <o:p></o:p>

With India’s innings starting during the twilight phase, England persisted with their three seamers. While the troika did trouble the Indian openers early on, Rohit Sharma went on to get his half-century. India’s batting line-up did suffer a collapse on Day 2, courtesy some fine bowling by Jack Leach and Joe Root – who picked up his first five-for in Test cricket – as India were bundled out for 145 runs, taking a 33 run lead. <o:p></o:p>

With the sun out in Ahmedabad on Day 2 of the pink-ball Test, Ashwin and Axar bowled 30 overs in tandem and picked up nine wickets. Washington Sundar was given his first over of the match and the youngster scalped a wicket in his fourth delivery to bundle out England for just 81. <o:p></o:p>

With a target of 49 on board, Indian openers Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill played their strokes and finished the match in the third innings of Day 2. <o:p></o:p>

India, with the thumping win, take a 2-1 lead into the four-Test series and will be looking to wrap up the series and a spot in the ICC World Test Championship final when they take the field for the fourth Test at the same venue, starting from March 4. <o:p></o:p>

India on Thursday took a 2-1 lead in the four-test series after defeating England by 10 wickets at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad. England looked clueless against Ravichandran Ashwin and Axar Patel as the spin duo picked up a combined 18 wickets in both innings to bundle England out for 112 and 82 respectively.

India on Thursday took a 2-1 lead in the four-test series after defeating England by 10 wickets at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad. England looked clueless against Ravichandran Ashwin and Axar Patel as the spin duo picked up a combined 18 wickets in both innings to bundle England out for 112 and 82 respectively. While Ashwin went on to achieve the monumental feat of 400 Test wickets – becoming only the third Indian to touch the landmark – local boy Axar Patel, playing just his second Test, registered his maiden 10-wicket-haul in Test cricket. The two teams went with contrasting decisions in terms of team selection. England picked up three pacers in their playing XI whereas India went with three spinners – suggesting both the captains read the pitch differently. ALSO READ: Ravichandran Ashwin becomes second-fastest to 400 Test wickets, only fourth Indian to achieve milestone Having won the toss, England opted to bat first and India’s decision to play three spinners came to fruition as captain Virat Kohli handed the ball to Axar in the sixth over of Day 1. While Axar and Ashwin spun the web around the English batters, the crowd inside the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium went abuzz. Zak Crawley was the only batsman to achieve a half-century in the first innings, with the second-highest being 17 by Joe Root as England finished the innings with just 112 on board. Axar picked up six, Ashwin three and Ishant – playing his 100th Test – one. With India’s innings starting during the twilight phase, England persisted with their three seamers. While the troika did trouble the Indian openers early on, Rohit Sharma went on to get his half-century. India’s batting line-up did suffer a collapse on Day 2, courtesy some fine bowling by Jack Leach and Joe Root – who picked up his first five-for in Test cricket – as India were bundled out for 145 runs, taking a 33 run lead. With the sun out in Ahmedabad on Day 2 of the pink-ball Test, Ashwin and Axar bowled 30 overs in tandem and picked up nine wickets. Washington Sundar was given his first over of the match and the youngster scalped a wicket in his fourth delivery to bundle out England for just 81. With a target of 49 on board, Indian openers Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill played their strokes and finished the match in the third innings of Day 2. India, with the thumping win, take a 2-1 lead into the four-Test series and will be looking to wrap up the series and a spot in the ICC World Test Championship final when they take the field for the fourth Test at the same venue, starting from March 4.

Axar-Ashwin bamboozle England as India win pink-ball Test by 10 wickets, take 2-1 lead in the series

Joe Root on Thursday spun a web around India’s batting line-up as the England skipper picked up his first-ever Test five-for to bundle out India for 145 on Day 2 of the ongoing pink-ball Test at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

With his five-for, Root became the first England skipper since Bob Willis to scalp a Test five-for with the latter achieving the feat in 1982. Root’s heroics was the second-ever cheapest five-wicket-haul after Arthur Gilligan's 6 for 7 against South Africa in the year 1924.

On a dry track in Ahmedabad, left-arm spinner Jack Leach started Day 2 with a bang as he dismissed Ajinkya Rahane for 7 after the Indian batsman failed to connect the straighter one and was trapped plumb.

Leach soon dismissed well-settled Rohit Sharma for 66 after the Indian opener missed his sweep shot and was adjudged LBW.

After the twin scalps by Leach, Root came into action and was quick wreak havoc after bowling three maiden overs as the ball gripped and spun sharply on a hot afternoon in Ahmedabad. Root dismissed the in-form Rishabh Pant for 1. The likes of Washington Sundar and Axar Patel quickly fell prey to Root’s brilliance.

WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/axar-patel-6-for-hero-talks-about-bowling-with-pink-ball-at-narendra-modi-stadium-in-ahmedabad-366175" hreflang="en">Axar Patel, 6-for hero, talks about bowling with pink-ball at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad</a>

While Ravichandran Ashwin and Ishant Sharma hung around for a bit with the latter smashing his first-ever international six in his 100th Test match but Root got the better of Ashwin. Bumrah was the last player to become Root’s victim as the English skipper completed a brilliant day with the ball.

With a 33-run lead in the first innings, Axar Patel picked up two quick wickets in the very first over of the second innings to send Zak Crawley and Jonny Bairstow out for duck.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/prithvi-shaw-shatters-record-books-with-blistering-double-century-366164" hreflang="en">Prithvi Shaw shatters record books with blistering double century</a>

Fall of wickets: 33-1 (Shubman Gill, 14.6), 34-2 (Cheteshwar Pujara, 15.5), 98-3 (Virat Kohli, 32.2), 114-4 (Ajinkya Rahane, 38.2), 115-5 (Rohit Sharma, 40.1), 117-6 (Rishabh Pant, 41.1), 125-7 (Washington Sundar, 45.1), 125-8 (Axar Patel, 45.3), 134-9 (Ravichandran Ashwin, 49.2), 145-10 (Jasprit Bumrah, 53.2)

Joe Root on Thursday spun a web around India’s batting line-up as the England skipper picked up his first-ever Test five-for to bundle out India for 145 on Day 2 of the ongoing pink-ball Test at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

Joe Root on Thursday spun a web around India’s batting line-up as the England skipper picked up his first-ever Test five-for to bundle out India for 145 on Day 2 of the ongoing pink-ball Test at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. With his five-for, Root became the first England skipper since Bob Willis to scalp a Test five-for with the latter achieving the feat in 1982. Root’s heroics was the second-ever cheapest five-wicket-haul after Arthur Gilligan's 6 for 7 against South Africa in the year 1924. On a dry track in Ahmedabad, left-arm spinner Jack Leach started Day 2 with a bang as he dismissed Ajinkya Rahane for 7 after the Indian batsman failed to connect the straighter one and was trapped plumb. Leach soon dismissed well-settled Rohit Sharma for 66 after the Indian opener missed his sweep shot and was adjudged LBW. After the twin scalps by Leach, Root came into action and was quick wreak havoc after bowling three maiden overs as the ball gripped and spun sharply on a hot afternoon in Ahmedabad. Root dismissed the in-form Rishabh Pant for 1. The likes of Washington Sundar and Axar Patel quickly fell prey to Root’s brilliance. WATCH: Axar Patel, 6-for hero, talks about bowling with pink-ball at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad While Ravichandran Ashwin and Ishant Sharma hung around for a bit with the latter smashing his first-ever international six in his 100th Test match but Root got the better of Ashwin. Bumrah was the last player to become Root’s victim as the English skipper completed a brilliant day with the ball. With a 33-run lead in the first innings, Axar Patel picked up two quick wickets in the very first over of the second innings to send Zak Crawley and Jonny Bairstow out for duck. ALSO READ: Prithvi Shaw shatters record books with blistering double century Fall of wickets: 33-1 (Shubman Gill, 14.6), 34-2 (Cheteshwar Pujara, 15.5), 98-3 (Virat Kohli, 32.2), 114-4 (Ajinkya Rahane, 38.2), 115-5 (Rohit Sharma, 40.1), 117-6 (Rishabh Pant, 41.1), 125-7 (Washington Sundar, 45.1), 125-8 (Axar Patel, 45.3), 134-9 (Ravichandran Ashwin, 49.2), 145-10 (Jasprit Bumrah, 53.2)

Joe Root enters record books with maiden five-for but Axar Patel gives India crucial breakthroughs

Local boy Axar Patel was the standout bowler for Team India in the first innings of the pink-ball Test against England at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad as he scalped six wickets to help India restrict England for a paltry 112. He talks about the major difference between pink and red ball and bowling at his local ground.

Axar Patel, 6-for hero, talks about bowling with pink-ball at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad

India completed an eventful Day 1 of the pink-ball Test at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad with the hosts finishing the day at 99/3 after bundling England out for a paltry 112. <o:p></o:p>

Having opted to bat first after winning the toss, England lost opener, Dom Sibley, for a duck as Ishant Sharma, playing his 100th Test match, drew the first blood for India. Jonny Bairstow, who came into the playing XI after missing the first two Tests, had a nightmare start as local boy Axar Patel trapped him plumb, ending his nine-delivery stay at the crease. <o:p></o:p>

While Crawley and Joe Root looked like stitching a partnership for the visitors, veteran Ravichandran Ashwin got the better of the English skipper and sent him packing for a 37-ball 17. Axar, who was playing his second Test, then dismissed Crawley for 53 before dismissing Ben Stokes for six.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/umpire-sanitises-pink-ball-after-ben-stokes-applies-saliva-during-3rd-test-vs-india-366009" hreflang="en">Umpire sanitises pink-ball after Ben Stokes applies saliva during 3rd Test vs India</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The lights are ON &amp; what a spectacle the Narendra Modi Stadium is 👌🏻😍.<a href="https://twitter.com/GCAMotera?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GCAMotera</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Paytm?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Paytm</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PinkBallTest?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PinkBallTest</a> <a href="https://t.co/4rYT7ujOIh">pic.twitter.com/4rYT7ujOIh</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1364577761533157382?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Ashwin and Axar bowling in tandem was too much to handle for England on a hot day in Ahmedabad as the spin duo kept on chipping with wickets and wrapped up the visitors within the first two sessions of Day 1. England could manage just 112 runs in what could be termed as an unforgettable day for them.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-3rd-test-fan-breaches-security-and-runs-onto-ground-during-pink-ball-test-366006" hreflang="en">IND vs ENG, 3rd Test: Fan breaches security and runs onto ground during pink ball Test</a>

<o:p></o:p>

Just before the sunset, Indian openers Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill walked out to bat for India. With the experience of James Anderson and Stuart Broad into the play in the twilight phase, both Rohit and Gill started their inning on a cautious note. With Anderson swinging the new ball, Gill struggled to get on with his innings and was dismissed for 11 by Jofra Archer. Cheteshwar Pujara was trapped LBW by Jack Leach as the left-arm spinner got into the groove under the lights. <o:p></o:p>

While Virat Kohli looked settled, he was dismissed for 27 by Leach following a poor shot. Rohit Sharma completed his half-century with Ajinkya Rahane also unbeaten at one at the end of Day 1’s play.<o:p></o:p>

India Fall of wickets: 33-1 (Shubman Gill, 14.6), 34-2 (Cheteshwar Pujara, 15.5), 98-3 (Virat Kohli, 32.2)<o:p></o:p>

England Fall of Wickets: 2-1 (D Sibley, 2.3), 27-2 (Bairstow, 6.1), 74-3 (Root, 21.5), 80-4 (Zak Crawley, 24.4), 81-5 (Ollie Pope, 27.4), 81-6 (Stokes, 28.5), 93-7 (Jofra Archer, 34.2), 98-8 (Jack Leach, 37.3), 105-9 (Broad, 46.3), 112-10 (Foakes, 48.4)<o:p></o:p>

India completed an eventful Day 1 of the pink-ball Test at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad with the hosts finishing the day at 99/3 after bundling England out for a paltry 112.

India completed an eventful Day 1 of the pink-ball Test at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad with the hosts finishing the day at 99/3 after bundling England out for a paltry 112. Having opted to bat first after winning the toss, England lost opener, Dom Sibley, for a duck as Ishant Sharma, playing his 100th Test match, drew the first blood for India. Jonny Bairstow, who came into the playing XI after missing the first two Tests, had a nightmare start as local boy Axar Patel trapped him plumb, ending his nine-delivery stay at the crease. While Crawley and Joe Root looked like stitching a partnership for the visitors, veteran Ravichandran Ashwin got the better of the English skipper and sent him packing for a 37-ball 17. Axar, who was playing his second Test, then dismissed Crawley for 53 before dismissing Ben Stokes for six. ALSO READ: Umpire sanitises pink-ball after Ben Stokes applies saliva during 3rd Test vs India The lights are ON & what a spectacle the Narendra Modi Stadium is 👌🏻😍.@GCAMotera @Paytm #INDvENG #TeamIndia #PinkBallTest pic.twitter.com/4rYT7ujOIh — BCCI (@BCCI) February 24, 2021 × Ashwin and Axar bowling in tandem was too much to handle for England on a hot day in Ahmedabad as the spin duo kept on chipping with wickets and wrapped up the visitors within the first two sessions of Day 1. England could manage just 112 runs in what could be termed as an unforgettable day for them. ALSO READ: IND vs ENG, 3rd Test: Fan breaches security and runs onto ground during pink ball Test Just before the sunset, Indian openers Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill walked out to bat for India. With the experience of James Anderson and Stuart Broad into the play in the twilight phase, both Rohit and Gill started their inning on a cautious note. With Anderson swinging the new ball, Gill struggled to get on with his innings and was dismissed for 11 by Jofra Archer. Cheteshwar Pujara was trapped LBW by Jack Leach as the left-arm spinner got into the groove under the lights. While Virat Kohli looked settled, he was dismissed for 27 by Leach following a poor shot. Rohit Sharma completed his half-century with Ajinkya Rahane also unbeaten at one at the end of Day 1’s play. India Fall of wickets: 33-1 (Shubman Gill, 14.6), 34-2 (Cheteshwar Pujara, 15.5), 98-3 (Virat Kohli, 32.2) England Fall of Wickets: 2-1 (D Sibley, 2.3), 27-2 (Bairstow, 6.1), 74-3 (Root, 21.5), 80-4 (Zak Crawley, 24.4), 81-5 (Ollie Pope, 27.4), 81-6 (Stokes, 28.5), 93-7 (Jofra Archer, 34.2), 98-8 (Jack Leach, 37.3), 105-9 (Broad, 46.3), 112-10 (Foakes, 48.4)

Axar Patel, Rohit Sharma help India take advantage in pink-ball Test vs England

India's left-arm spinner Axar Patel's five-wicket haul in his debut match played a crucial role in the second Test match, where hosts thrashed England by 317 runs at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Tuesday.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-wont-be-fielding-today-reason-behind-shubman-gills-absence-on-day-4-363943" hreflang="en">'He won't be fielding today': Reason behind Shubman Gill's absence on Day 4</a>

Axar became the 9th Indian player to take a five-wicket haul on Test debut and only the second left-arm spinner after Dilip Doshi to take a five-for in his debut Test.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-2nd-test-r-ashwin-axar-patel-star-as-india-thrash-england-by-317-runs-363964">IND vs ENG, 2nd Test: Ashwin, Axar star as India thrash England by 317 runs</a>

Coincidently, Dilip Doshi's debut fifer came at the same venue (Chepauk Stadium) against Australia back in 1979.&nbsp;

<h2>Spinners taking five-fer on Test debut for India</h2>

5/64 - VV Kumar v Pak, Delhi 1960/61 
6/103 - D Doshi v Aus, Chennai 1979/80 
8/61 &amp; 8/75 - N Hirwani v WI, Chennai 1987/88 
5/71 - Amit Mishra v Aus, Mohali 2008/09 
6/47 - R Ashwin v WI, Delhi 2011/12 
5/41 - Axar Patel v Eng, Chennai 2020/21

"It was a good experience, to get a five-wicket haul on debut is special. As Kuldeep said, there was much happening on the pitch.

"It was about varying your speed and I just kept doing it. Forced the batsman to make mistakes. On the first day itself, it was turning. So, we bowled tight lines and got the rewards," Axar Patel said after the match.

India's left-arm spinner Axar Patel's five-wicket haul in his debut match played a crucial role in the second Test match, where hosts thrashed England by 317 runs at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Tuesday.

India's left-arm spinner Axar Patel's five-wicket haul in his debut match played a crucial role in the second Test match, where hosts thrashed England by 317 runs at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Tuesday. ALSO READ: 'He won't be fielding today': Reason behind Shubman Gill's absence on Day 4 Axar became the 9th Indian player to take a five-wicket haul on Test debut and only the second left-arm spinner after Dilip Doshi to take a five-for in his debut Test. ALSO READ: IND vs ENG, 2nd Test: Ashwin, Axar star as India thrash England by 317 runs Coincidently, Dilip Doshi's debut fifer came at the same venue (Chepauk Stadium) against Australia back in 1979. Spinners taking five-fer on Test debut for India 5/64 - VV Kumar v Pak, Delhi 1960/61 6/103 - D Doshi v Aus, Chennai 1979/80 8/61 & 8/75 - N Hirwani v WI, Chennai 1987/88 5/71 - Amit Mishra v Aus, Mohali 2008/09 6/47 - R Ashwin v WI, Delhi 2011/12 5/41 - Axar Patel v Eng, Chennai 2020/21 "It was a good experience, to get a five-wicket haul on debut is special. As Kuldeep said, there was much happening on the pitch. "It was about varying your speed and I just kept doing it. Forced the batsman to make mistakes. On the first day itself, it was turning. So, we bowled tight lines and got the rewards," Axar Patel said after the match.

IND vs ENG: Axar Patel joins elite list after a five-wicket haul on debut

Former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir pointed out two England batsmen that Virat and Co. need to get rid of quickly to get a firm grip on the Test.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-knew-pitch-was-going-to-turn-was-mentally-prepared-says-rohit-363421" hreflang="en">Ind vs Eng: Knew pitch was going to turn, was mentally prepared, says Rohit</a>

“The key batters from England’s point of view are Dom Sibley and Joe Root,” Gambhir said on Star Sports at the end of day’s play.

Gambhir felt that Sibley could frustrate Indian bowlers by blocking the ball and said that he does not throw his wicket away.&nbsp;

“Sibley bats time, he’s not gonna throw his wicket away, you have to get him out. He’s a little bit like Pujara. Not gonna compare him as Pujara is in a different league and Sibley is just starting his career. He’s someone who’s got the temperament and you need that when you have to keep blocking to frustrate the bowlers,” Gambhir added.

Root, who's double ton in the first Test ensured a win for England, will be a huge wicket for India. However, Gambhir felt that it won't be easy for strokes players like Root.&nbsp;

“It’s not gonna be easy for stroke players. England can bat pretty well. We’ve seen some unpredictable and unimaginable things happening. But it’s gonna be very difficult for England if India get to 370-375. Axar is going to be dangerous. Kuldeep can probably finish the tail. So different challenges, against a different bowling attack,” Gambhir added.

Former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir pointed out two England batsmen that Virat and Co. need to get rid of quickly to get a firm grip on the Test. ALSO READ: Ind vs Eng: Knew pitch was going to turn, was mentally prepared, says Rohit “The key batters from England’s point of view are Dom Sibley and Joe Root,” Gambhir said on Star Sports at the end of day’s play.

Former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir pointed out two England batsmen that Virat and Co. need to get rid of quickly to get a firm grip on the Test. ALSO READ: Ind vs Eng: Knew pitch was going to turn, was mentally prepared, says Rohit “The key batters from England’s point of view are Dom Sibley and Joe Root,” Gambhir said on Star Sports at the end of day’s play. Gambhir felt that Sibley could frustrate Indian bowlers by blocking the ball and said that he does not throw his wicket away. “Sibley bats time, he’s not gonna throw his wicket away, you have to get him out. He’s a little bit like Pujara. Not gonna compare him as Pujara is in a different league and Sibley is just starting his career. He’s someone who’s got the temperament and you need that when you have to keep blocking to frustrate the bowlers,” Gambhir added. Root, who's double ton in the first Test ensured a win for England, will be a huge wicket for India. However, Gambhir felt that it won't be easy for strokes players like Root. “It’s not gonna be easy for stroke players. England can bat pretty well. We’ve seen some unpredictable and unimaginable things happening. But it’s gonna be very difficult for England if India get to 370-375. Axar is going to be dangerous. Kuldeep can probably finish the tail. So different challenges, against a different bowling attack,” Gambhir added.

'Different challenges': Gambhir names 2 key England batsmen India should watchout for

axar-patel

Axar Patel, News on Axar Patel, stories on Axar Patel, articles on Axar Patel, Axar Patel stories at Wion, Axar Patel news, Axar Patel latest news

axar patel