<p>Former Pakistan player Abdul Razzaq is the latest to opine on Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli comparison, saying both are good, however, Kohli is ahead of Babar in terms of fitness.</p>

<p>Speaking to media outlet Times of India, Razzaq said, "We don't need to compare them. It's like asking, who is better - Kapil Dev or Imran Khan? These comparisons are not good. Kohli is a good player in India. Similarly, Babar Azam is a good player in Pakistan. Kohli is a world-class player, Babar is too. But Kohli's fitness is way better than Babar's."</p>

<p>Continuing with the discussion, Razzaq said that both the batters are top players in their countries and that Virat's best part is that he takes his team along.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/if-kapil-dev-says-he-wants-to-abdul-razzaq-opens-up-on-his-controversial-remark-on-hardik-pandya-576485">Abdul Razzaq opens up on his controversial remark on Hardik Pandya</a></p>

<p>"Virat is an outstanding and fantastic player. The best part is that he takes his team along. His intent is always positive. He utilises his skills very well. The main thing is that his fitness is world-class. Babar Azam's fitness is not like that of Virat Kohli's. Babar needs to work more on his fitness. Babar is Pakistan's number one player. Babar is in fact the world number 1 batter (ODIs). Be it in any format of the game, Test, ODI, or T20I, he has been consistently performing well. Every country has one player like them (Virat and Babar)," added Razzaq.</p>

<p>Notably, Virat is considered as one of the modern greats of the game with 75 international tons to his name, second only to Sachin Tendulkar's world record of 100 centuries. Kohli has 28 tons in Tests, 46 in ODIs and one in T20Is. Kohli is also just three short of equalling Sachin's ODI century record of 49 tons.</p>

<p>Babar, on the other hand, has nine Test tons, 17 ODI hundreds and two in T20Is, totaling to 28 in the international cricket.</p>

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Former Pakistan player Abdul Razzaq is the latest to opine on Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli comparison, saying both are good, however, Kohli is ahead of Babar in terms of fitness.

Former Pakistan player Abdul Razzaq is the latest to opine on Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli comparison, saying both are good, however, Kohli is ahead of Babar in terms of fitness. Speaking to media outlet Times of India, Razzaq said, "We don't need to compare them. It's like asking, who is better - Kapil Dev or Imran Khan? These comparisons are not good. Kohli is a good player in India. Similarly, Babar Azam is a good player in Pakistan. Kohli is a world-class player, Babar is too. But Kohli's fitness is way better than Babar's." Continuing with the discussion, Razzaq said that both the batters are top players in their countries and that Virat's best part is that he takes his team along. Also Read: Abdul Razzaq opens up on his controversial remark on Hardik Pandya "Virat is an outstanding and fantastic player. The best part is that he takes his team along. His intent is always positive. He utilises his skills very well. The main thing is that his fitness is world-class. Babar Azam's fitness is not like that of Virat Kohli's. Babar needs to work more on his fitness. Babar is Pakistan's number one player. Babar is in fact the world number 1 batter (ODIs). Be it in any format of the game, Test, ODI, or T20I, he has been consistently performing well. Every country has one player like them (Virat and Babar)," added Razzaq. Notably, Virat is considered as one of the modern greats of the game with 75 international tons to his name, second only to Sachin Tendulkar's world record of 100 centuries. Kohli has 28 tons in Tests, 46 in ODIs and one in T20Is. Kohli is also just three short of equalling Sachin's ODI century record of 49 tons. Babar, on the other hand, has nine Test tons, 17 ODI hundreds and two in T20Is, totaling to 28 in the international cricket. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ex-Pak player reveals what Babar Azam NEEDS TO WORK on to be as great as Virat Kohli

<p>A day after the International Cricket Council (ICC) changed the Indore Test pitch rating from 'poor' to 'below average' following an appeal by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), &nbsp;an Australian media house took a dig at the decision. Indore had hosted the third Test in the recently-concluded Border-Gavaskar series, which India won 2-1.</p>

<p>Former Australia coach Darren Lehmann also seemed in agreement with the article as he posted some laughing emoticons in reply of the article shared on Twitter by Fox Cricket.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-sourav-ganguly-makes-bold-prediction-about-prithvi-shaws-chances-to-play-for-india-576582">IPL 2023: Sourav Ganguly makes BOLD prediction about Prithvi Shaw's chances to play for India</a></p>

<p>"ICC’s ridiculous backdown on pitch rating after Aus-India Test debacle," read the article headline by Fox Cricket. The media house also shared the article on Twitter, writing, "India dished up a truly terrible pitch for the third Test against Australia, but they've managed to get the pitch rating upgraded from 'poor' after an appeal! (laughing emoticon)"</p>

<p>Darren Lehmann, a former Australia player, then posted three laughing emoticons in reply of the same tweet. Have a look at the conversation below:</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="qme">😂😂😂</p>
— Darren Lehmann (@darren_lehmann) <a href="https://twitter.com/darren_lehmann/status/1640474600160251905?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 27, 2023</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>

<p>Notably, Indore wasn't the original venue of the Test and replaced Dharamsala last moment after the latter's outfield was deemed unfit to play. Nonetheless, the Test - third in four-match series - lasted just 2 and half days or seven sessions only as it saw 30 wickets falling on the first two days itself.</p>

<p>Match Referee Chris Broad had assessed the pitch as not conducive for proper balance and said in his assessment to the ICC that “The pitch, which was very dry, did not provide a balance between bat and ball, favouring spinners from the start."</p>

<p>After BCCI appealed against the 'poor' rating given to the pitch by the ICC based on Broad's assessment, the rating was changed. ICC appeal panel consisting of Wasim Khan, ICC General Manager – Cricket, and Roger Harper, ICC Men’s Cricket Committee Member, went through the match footage and changed rating of 'below average' instead of 'poor.'</p>

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A day after the International Cricket Council (ICC) changed the Indore Test pitch rating from 'poor' to 'below average' following an appeal by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), an Australian media house took a dig at the decision.

A day after the International Cricket Council (ICC) changed the Indore Test pitch rating from 'poor' to 'below average' following an appeal by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), an Australian media house took a dig at the decision. Indore had hosted the third Test in the recently-concluded Border-Gavaskar series, which India won 2-1. Former Australia coach Darren Lehmann also seemed in agreement with the article as he posted some laughing emoticons in reply of the article shared on Twitter by Fox Cricket. Also Read: IPL 2023: Sourav Ganguly makes BOLD prediction about Prithvi Shaw's chances to play for India "ICC’s ridiculous backdown on pitch rating after Aus-India Test debacle," read the article headline by Fox Cricket. The media house also shared the article on Twitter, writing, "India dished up a truly terrible pitch for the third Test against Australia, but they've managed to get the pitch rating upgraded from 'poor' after an appeal! (laughing emoticon)" Darren Lehmann, a former Australia player, then posted three laughing emoticons in reply of the same tweet. Have a look at the conversation below: 😂😂😂 — Darren Lehmann (@darren_lehmann) March 27, 2023 × Notably, Indore wasn't the original venue of the Test and replaced Dharamsala last moment after the latter's outfield was deemed unfit to play. Nonetheless, the Test - third in four-match series - lasted just 2 and half days or seven sessions only as it saw 30 wickets falling on the first two days itself. Match Referee Chris Broad had assessed the pitch as not conducive for proper balance and said in his assessment to the ICC that “The pitch, which was very dry, did not provide a balance between bat and ball, favouring spinners from the start." After BCCI appealed against the 'poor' rating given to the pitch by the ICC based on Broad's assessment, the rating was changed. ICC appeal panel consisting of Wasim Khan, ICC General Manager – Cricket, and Roger Harper, ICC Men’s Cricket Committee Member, went through the match footage and changed rating of 'below average' instead of 'poor.' WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Australian media house takes a dig at BCCI and ICC after Indore pitch rating change

<p>Ravindra Jadeja has been promoted to Grade A+ in BCCI's recently-released central contract list. Jadeja has been on a roll ever since he returned to action after a long injury layoff with superlative performances during India's home series versus Australia. Thus, he has joined skipper Rohit Sharma, former captain Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah in the top-grade contract (salary of INR 70 million/7 crore).</p>

<p>KL Rahul, who got removed as the white-ball vice-captain and was dropped for the final two Tests versus Australia, has been demoted to Grade B. As many as five players have been included in Grade A (INR 50 million/5 crore) whereas there are six players in Grade B and 11 in Grade C.</p>

<p><strong>Check out the full list:</strong></p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sa-vs-wi-quinton-de-kock-hits-maiden-t20i-hundred-as-proteas-complete-highest-t20i-run-chase-in-centurion-576011">SA vs WI: Quinton de Kock hits maiden T20I hundred as Proteas complete highest T20I run chase in Centurion</a></strong></p>

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 500px;">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td>PLAYER</td>
			<td>GRADE</td>
			<td>SALARY (in INR)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Rohit Sharma</td>
			<td>A+</td>
			<td>70 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Virat Kohli</td>
			<td>A+</td>
			<td>70 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Jasprit Bumrah</td>
			<td>A+</td>
			<td>70 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Ravindra Jadeja</td>
			<td>A+</td>
			<td>70 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Hardik Pandya</td>
			<td>A</td>
			<td>50 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>R Ashwin</td>
			<td>A</td>
			<td>50 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Rishabh Pant</td>
			<td>A</td>
			<td>50 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Axar Patel</td>
			<td>A</td>
			<td>50 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Md Shami</td>
			<td>A</td>
			<td>50 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Cheteshwar Pujara</td>
			<td>B</td>
			<td>30 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>KL Rahul</td>
			<td>B</td>
			<td>30 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Shreyas Iyer</td>
			<td>B</td>
			<td>30 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Md Siraj</td>
			<td>B</td>
			<td>30 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Suryakumar Yadav</td>
			<td>B</td>
			<td>30 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Shubman Gill</td>
			<td>B</td>
			<td>30 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Shikhar Dhawan</td>
			<td>C</td>
			<td>10 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Shardul Thakur</td>
			<td>C</td>
			<td>10 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Yuzvendra Chahal</td>
			<td>C</td>
			<td>10 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Umesh Yadav</td>
			<td>C</td>
			<td>10 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Sanju Samson</td>
			<td>C</td>
			<td>10 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Ishan Kishan</td>
			<td>C</td>
			<td>10 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Deepak Hooda</td>
			<td>C</td>
			<td>10 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Kuldeep Yadav</td>
			<td>C</td>
			<td>10 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>KS Bharat</td>
			<td>C</td>
			<td>10 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Washington Sundar</td>
			<td>C</td>
			<td>10 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Arshdeep Singh</td>
			<td>C</td>
			<td>10 million</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

<p>Shikhar Dhawan, who has been dropped from the ODI setup, is one of the biggest names in Grade C. He has been replaced by Shubman Gill as Rohit's opening partner in the 50-over setup whereas he was out of the T20I line-up in late 2021 itself. Moreover, star pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar's name was missing from the entire list.</p>

<p>All the star Indian cricketers are now gearing up for IPL 2023 edition, which kicks off on March 31 in Ahmedabad.</p>


Ravindra Jadeja has been promoted to Grade A+ in BCCI's recently-released central contract list. Jadeja has been on a roll ever since he returned to action after a long injury layoff with superlative performances during India's home series versus Australia.

Ravindra Jadeja has been promoted to Grade A+ in BCCI's recently-released central contract list. Jadeja has been on a roll ever since he returned to action after a long injury layoff with superlative performances during India's home series versus Australia. Thus, he has joined skipper Rohit Sharma, former captain Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah in the top-grade contract (salary of INR 70 million/7 crore). KL Rahul, who got removed as the white-ball vice-captain and was dropped for the final two Tests versus Australia, has been demoted to Grade B. As many as five players have been included in Grade A (INR 50 million/5 crore) whereas there are six players in Grade B and 11 in Grade C. Check out the full list: Also Read: SA vs WI: Quinton de Kock hits maiden T20I hundred as Proteas complete highest T20I run chase in Centurion PLAYER GRADE SALARY (in INR) Rohit Sharma A+ 70 million Virat Kohli A+ 70 million Jasprit Bumrah A+ 70 million Ravindra Jadeja A+ 70 million Hardik Pandya A 50 million R Ashwin A 50 million Rishabh Pant A 50 million Axar Patel A 50 million Md Shami A 50 million Cheteshwar Pujara B 30 million KL Rahul B 30 million Shreyas Iyer B 30 million Md Siraj B 30 million Suryakumar Yadav B 30 million Shubman Gill B 30 million Shikhar Dhawan C 10 million Shardul Thakur C 10 million Yuzvendra Chahal C 10 million Umesh Yadav C 10 million Sanju Samson C 10 million Ishan Kishan C 10 million Deepak Hooda C 10 million Kuldeep Yadav C 10 million KS Bharat C 10 million Washington Sundar C 10 million Arshdeep Singh C 10 million Shikhar Dhawan, who has been dropped from the ODI setup, is one of the biggest names in Grade C. He has been replaced by Shubman Gill as Rohit's opening partner in the 50-over setup whereas he was out of the T20I line-up in late 2021 itself. Moreover, star pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar's name was missing from the entire list. All the star Indian cricketers are now gearing up for IPL 2023 edition, which kicks off on March 31 in Ahmedabad.

BCCI central contracts: Ravindra Jadeja gets a PROMOTION, KL Rahul DEMOTED - Check full list

Just 4 days to go for the most awaited cricket tournament IPL 2023 to begin on March 31. Fans are super-excited as the IPL returns to its old standards where each team will play seven matches at home and seven away.

Just 4 days to go for the most awaited cricket tournament IPL 2023 to begin on March 31. Fans are super-excited as the IPL returns to its old standards where each team will play seven matches at home and seven away. The first match will be between Gujarat Titans and Chennai Super Kings in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. The first game will begin at 03:30 PM IST. Evening games will begin at 07:30 PM. This year, the Board of Cricket Control in India (BBCI) has made some amendments to the rules and formats, including restorations of the home-and-away method of conducting the matches for the 16th season. A total of 74 league matches will be played across 52 matchdays and the first double-header of the new season will be played on April 1st. Two-time winners Kolkata KnightRiders will take on Punjab Kings in Mohali, Punjab in the afternoon game while Lucknow Supergiants will face the Delhi Capitals in the evening game. Here are the time, venue, date, teams, full schedule and live-streaming details you need to know about the Indian Premier League 2023: Date: Start from March 31, 2023 Time: First match in Ahmedabad at 03:30 PM IST IPL 2023 Teams: Mumbai Indians Rajasthan Royals Kolkata Knight Riders Delhi Challengers Lucknow Super Giants Chennai Super Kings Punjab Kings Sunrisers Hyderabad Royal Challengers Bangalore Gujrat Titians IPL 2023 Squad: Chennai Super Kings (CSK): MS Dhoni (C), Ambati Rayudu, Deepak Chahar, Devon Conway, Dwaine Pretorius, Maheesh Theekshana, Matheesha Pathirana, Mitchell Santner, Moeen Ali, Mukesh Choudhary, Prashant Solanki, Rajvardhan Hangargekar, Ravindra Jadeja, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shivam Dube, Simarjeet Singh, Subhranshu Senapati, Tushar Deshpande, Bhagath Varma, Ajay Mandal, Kyle Jamieson, Nishant Sindhu, Shaik Rasheed, Ben Stokes, Ajinkya Rahane Delhi Capitals (DC): Rishabh Pant (C), Aman Khan (T), David Warner, Anrich Nortje, Axar Patel, Chetan Sakariya, Kamlesh Nagarkoti, Kuldeep Yadav, Lalit Yadav, Lungisani Ngidi, Mitchell Marsh, Mustafizur Rahman, Pravin Dubey, Prithvi Shaw, Ripal Patel, Rovman Powell, Sarfaraz Khan, Syed Khaleel Ahmed, Vicky Ostwal, Yash Dhull, Rilee Rossouw, Manish Pandey, Mukesh Kumar, Ishant Sharma, Phil Salt Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH): Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Abdul Samad, Abhishek Sharma, Aiden Markram, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Glenn Phillips, Kartik Tyagi, Marco Jansen, Rahul Tripathi, T. Natarajan, Umran Malik, Washington Sundar, Mayank Dagar, Upendra Yadav, Sanvir Singh, Samarth Vyas, Vivrant Sharma, Mayank Markande, Adil Rashid, Heinrich Klaasen, Mayank Agarwal, Harry Brook Punjab Kings (PBKS): Shikhar Dhawan, Shahrukh Khan, Rahul Chahar, Arshdeep Singh, Harpreet Brar, Raj Angad Bawa, Prabhsimran Singh, Rishi Dhawan, Jitesh Sharma, Baltej Singh Dhanda, Atharva Taide, Liam Livingstone, Kagiso Rabada, Jonny Bairstow, Nathan Ellis, Bhanuka Rajapakse, Shivam Singh, Mohit Rathee, Vidwath Kaverappa, Harpreet Bhatia, Sikandar Raza, Sam Curran Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB): Virat Kohli, Akash Deep, Anuj Rawat, David Willey, Dinesh Karthik, Faf Du Plessis (C), Finn Allen, Glenn Maxwell, Harshal Patel, Josh Hazlewood, Karn Sharma, Mahipal Lomror, Mohammed Siraj, Rajat Patidar, Shahbaz Ahamad, Siddharth Kaul, Suyash Prabhudessai, Wanindu Hasaranga, Sonu Yadav, Avinash Singh, Rajan Kumar, Manoj Bhandage, Will Jacks, Himanshu Sharma, Reece Topley Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR): Shreyas Iyer (C), Andre Russell, Anukul Roy, Harshit Rana, Lockie Ferguson (T), Nitish Rana, Rahmanullah Gurbaz (T), Rinku Singh, Shardul Thakur (T), Sunil Narine, Tim Southee, Umesh Yadav, Varun Chakravarthy, Venkatesh Iyer, Shakib Al Hasan, Mandeep Singh, Litton Das, Kulwant Khejroliya, David Wiese, Suyash Sharma, Vaibhav Arora, N. Jagadeesan Mumbai Indians (MI): Rohit Sharma (C), Suryakumar Yadav, Akash Madhwal, Arjun Tendulkar, Dewald Brevis, Hrithik Shokeen, Ishan Kishan, Jason Behrendorff (T), Jasprit Bumrah, Jofra Archer, Kumar Kartikeya Singh, Mohd. Arshad Khan, N. Tilak Varma, Ramandeep Singh, Tim David, Tristan Stubbs, Raghav Goyal, Nehal Wadhera, Shams Mulani, Vishnu Vinod, Duan Jansen, Piyush Chawla, Jhye Richardson, Cameron Green Rajasthan Royals (RR): Jos Buttler, Devdutt Padikkal, Dhruv Jurel, K.C Cariappa, Kuldeep Sen, Kuldip Yadav, Navdeep Saini, Obed Mccoy, Prasidh Krishna, R. Ashwin, Riyan Parag, Sanju Samson (C), Shimron Hetmyer, Trent Boult, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Yuzvendra Chahal, Joe Root, Abdul P A, Akash Vashisht, Murugan Ashwin, KM Asif, Adam Zampa, Kunal Rathore, Donovan Ferreira, Jason Holder Lucknow Super Giants (LSG): KL Rahul (C), Avesh Khan, Ayush Badoni, Deepak Hooda, K. Gowtham, Karan Sharma, Krunal Pandya, Kyle Mayers, Manan Vohra, Marcus Stoinis, Mark Wood, Mayank Yadav, Mohsin Khan, Quinton De Kock, Ravi Bishnoi, Yudhvir Charak, Naveen-ul-Haq, Swapnil Singh, Prerak Mankad, Amit Mishra, Daniel Sams, Romario Shepherd, Yash Thakur, Jaydev Unadkat, Nicholas Pooran Gujrat Titans (GT): Hardik Pandya (C), Rashid Khan, Abhinav Sadarangani, Alzarri Joseph, B. Sai Sudharsan, Darshan Nalkande, David Miller, Jayant Yadav, Matthew Wade, Mohammad Shami, Noor Ahmad, Pradeep Sangwan, R. Sai Kishore, Rahul Tewatia, Shubman Gill, Vijay Shankar, Wriddhiman Saha, Yash Dayal, Mohit Sharma, Joshua Little, Urvil Patel, Shivam Mavi, KS Bharat, Odean Smith, Kane Williamson IPL Schedule: Match Day Day Date IPL Match Time Home Team Away Team Venue 1 Fri 31-Mar-23 7:30 PM Gujarat Titans Chennai Super Kings Ahmedabad 2 Sat 01-Apr-23 3:30 PM Punjab Kings Kolkata Knight Riders Mohali 2 Sat 01-Apr-23 7:30 PM Lucknow Super Giants Delhi Capitals Lucknow 3 Sun 02-Apr-23 3:30 PM Sunrisers Hyderabad Rajasthan Royals Hyderabad 3 Sun 02-Apr-23 7:30 PM Royal Challengers Bangalore Mumbai Indians Bengaluru 4 Mon 03-Apr-23 7:30 PM Chennai Super Kings Lucknow Super Giants Chennai 5 Tue 04-Apr-23 7:30 PM Delhi Capitals Gujarat Titans Delhi 6 Wed 05-Apr-23 7:30 PM Rajasthan Royals Punjab Kings Guwahati 7 Thu 06-Apr-23 7:30 PM Kolkata Knight Riders Royal Challengers Bangalore Kolkata 8 Fri 07-Apr-23 7:30 PM Lucknow Super Giants Sunrisers Hyderabad Lucknow 9 Sat 08-Apr-23 3:30 PM Rajasthan Royals Delhi Capitals Guwahati 9 Sat 08-Apr-23 7:30 PM Mumbai Indians Chennai Super Kings Mumbai 10 Sun 09-Apr-23 3:30 PM Gujarat Titans Kolkata Knight Riders Ahmedabad 10 Sun 09-Apr-23 7:30 PM Sunrisers Hyderabad Punjab Kings Hyderabad 11 Mon 10-Apr-23 7:30 PM Royal Challengers Bangalore Lucknow Super Giants Bengaluru 12 Tue 11-Apr-23 7:30 PM Delhi Capitals Mumbai Indians Delhi 13 Wed 12-Apr-23 7:30 PM Chennai Super Kings Rajasthan Royals Chennai 14 Thu 13-Apr-23 7:30 PM Punjab Kings Gujarat Titans Mohali 15 Fri 14-Apr-23 7:30 PM Kolkata Knight Riders Sunrisers Hyderabad Kolkata 16 Sat 15-Apr-23 3:30 PM Royal Challengers Bangalore Delhi Capitals Bengaluru 16 Sat 15-Apr-23 7:30 PM Lucknow Super Giants Punjab Kings Lucknow 17 Sun 16-Apr-23 3:30 PM Mumbai Indians Kolkata Knight Riders Mumbai 17 Sun 16-Apr-23 7:30 PM Gujarat Titans Rajasthan Royals Ahmedabad 18 Mon 17-Apr-23 7:30 PM Royal Challengers Bangalore Chennai Super Kings Bengaluru 19 Tue 18-Apr-23 7:30 PM Sunrisers Hyderabad Mumbai Indians Hyderabad 20 Wed 19-Apr-23 7:30 PM Rajasthan Royals Lucknow Super Giants Jaipur 21 Thu 20-Apr-23 3:30 PM Punjab Kings Royal Challengers Bangalore Mohali 21 Thu 20-Apr-23 7:30 PM Delhi Capitals Kolkata Knight Riders Delhi 22 Fri 21-Apr-23 7:30 PM Chennai Super Kings Sunrisers Hyderabad Chennai 23 Sat 22-Apr-23 3:30 PM Lucknow Super Giants Gujarat Titans Lucknow 23 Sat 22-Apr-23 7:30 PM Mumbai Indians Punjab Kings Mumbai 24 Sun 23-Apr-23 3:30 PM Royal Challengers Bangalore Rajasthan Royals Bengaluru 24 Sun 23-Apr-23 7:30 PM Kolkata Knight Riders Chennai Super Kings Kolkata 25 Mon 24-Apr-23 7:30 PM Sunrisers Hyderabad Delhi Capitals Hyderabad 26 Tue 25-Apr-23 7:30 PM Gujarat Titans Mumbai Indians Ahmedabad 27 Wed 26-Apr-23 7:30 PM Royal Challengers Bangalore Kolkata Knight Riders Bengaluru 28 Thu 27-Apr-23 7:30 PM Rajasthan Royals Chennai Super Kings Jaipur 29 Fri 28-Apr-23 7:30 PM Punjab Kings Lucknow Super Giants Mohali 30 Sat 29-Apr-23 3:30 PM Kolkata Knight Riders Gujarat Titans Kolkata 30 Sat 29-Apr-23 7:30 PM Delhi Capitals Sunrisers Hyderabad Delhi 31 Sun 30-Apr-23 3:30 PM Chennai Super Kings Punjab Kings Chennai 31 Sun 30-Apr-23 7:30 PM Mumbai Indians Rajasthan Royals Mumbai 32 Mon 01-May-23 7:30 PM Lucknow Super Giants Royal Challengers Bangalore Lucknow 33 Tue 02-May-23 7:30 PM Gujarat Titans Delhi Capitals Ahmedabad 34 Wed 03-May-23 7:30 PM Punjab Kings Mumbai Indians Mohali 35 Thu 04-May-23 3:30 PM Lucknow Super Giants Chennai Super Kings Lucknow 35 Thu 04-May-23 7:30 PM Sunrisers Hyderabad Kolkata Knight Riders Hyderabad 36 Fri 05-May-23 7:30 PM Rajasthan Royals Gujarat Titans Jaipur 37 Sat 06-May-23 7:30 PM Delhi Capitals Royal Challengers Bangalore Delhi 38 Sun 07-May-23 3:30 PM Gujarat Titans Lucknow Super Giants Ahmedabad 38 Sun 07-May-23 7:30 PM Rajasthan Royals Sunrisers Hyderabad Jaipur 39 Mon 08-May-23 7:30 PM Kolkata Knight Riders Punjab Kings Kolkata 40 Tue 09-May-23 7:30 PM Mumbai Indians Royal Challengers Bangalore Mumbai 41 Wed 10-May-23 7:30 PM Chennai Super Kings Delhi Capitals Chennai 42 Thu 11-May-23 7:30 PM Kolkata Knight Riders Rajasthan Royals Kolkata 43 Fri 12-May-23 7:30 PM Mumbai Indians Gujarat Titans Mumbai 44 Sat 13-May-23 3:30 PM Sunrisers Hyderabad Lucknow Super Giants Hyderabad 44 Sat 13-May-23 7:30 PM Delhi Capitals Punjab Kings Delhi 45 Sun 14-May-23 3:30 PM Rajasthan Royals Royal Challengers Bangalore Jaipur 45 Sun 14-May-23 7:30 PM Chennai Super Kings Kolkata Knight Riders Chennai 46 Mon 15-May-23 7:30 PM Gujarat Titans Sunrisers Hyderabad Ahmedabad 47 Tue 16-May-23 7:30 PM Lucknow Super Giants Mumbai Indians Lucknow 48 Wed 17-May-23 7:30 PM Punjab Kings Delhi Capitals Dharamshala 49 Thu 18-May-23 7:30 PM Sunrisers Hyderabad Royal Challengers Bangalore Hyderabad 50 Fri 19-May-23 7:30 PM Punjab Kings Rajasthan Royals Dharamshala 51 Sat 20-May-23 3:30 PM Delhi Capitals Chennai Super Kings Delhi 51 Sat 20-May-23 7:30 PM Kolkata Knight Riders Lucknow Super Giants Kolkata 52 Sun 21-May-23 3:30 PM Mumbai Indians Sunrisers Hyderabad Mumbai 52 Sun 21-May-23 7:30 PM Royal Challengers Bangalore Gujarat Titans Bengaluru IPL 2023 Venues: IPL 2023 Venues IPL Team Venues Mumbai Indians Wankhede Stadium Gujarat Titans Narendra Modi Stadium Delhi Capitals Arun Jaitley Stadium Kolkata Knight Riders Eden Gardens Chennai Super Kings M. A. Chidambaram Stadium Punjab Kings Punjab Cricket Association IS Bindra Stadium Royal Challengers Bangalore M. Chinnaswamy Stadium Lucknow Super Joints BRSABV Ekana Cricket Stadium Rajasthan Royals Sawai Mansingh Stadium Sunrisers Hyderabad Rajiv Gandhi Intl. Cricket Stadium IPL 2023 Live Streaming The IPL 2023 matches will be broadcasted on JioCinema. It would allow its users to rotate between multi-camera feature viewpoints for each game, just like it did for FIFA World Cup 2022. As the feature supports JioCinema, JioPhone subscribers might be able to watch the matches for FREE. Star Sports TV channel will also be telecasting the IPL 2023.

IPL 2023: 4 days to go! Check full schedule, date, time, venue, teams and live streaming details

<p>The International Cricket Council (ICC), on Monday (March 27),&nbsp;modified&nbsp;its rating for the Indore Test pitch that was used for the India-Australia third and penultimate Test,&nbsp;at the Holkar Stadium early this month. The pitch initially received a poor rating after the match ended&nbsp;in 2 days and a session but the decision has now been reversed after the Board of Control for Cricket in India's (BCCI) appeal.</p>

<p>Following match referee Chris Broad's&nbsp;stern assessment of the conditions, the Indore Test pitch was labelled 'poor'; emphasising that it did not provide enough balance between bat and ball. However, BCCI appealed against the decision and now the rating has been changed to 'below average'.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Talking about the Indore Test, India opted to bat first but only managed a below par 109 in their first essay with spinner Matthew Kuhnemann taking a five-fer. Australia also fell flat with the bat but managed 197; taking a vital 88-run lead. In reply, Indian batters struggled once again by being rattled for 163 with Nathan Lyon ending with 8 for 64 (11 wickets overall in the match) as Australia chased down a paltry 76-run target with nine wickets in hand in the opening session on Day 3.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-central-contracts-ravindra-jadeja-gets-a-promotion-kl-rahul-demoted-check-full-list-576101">BCCI central contracts: Ravindra Jadeja gets a PROMOTION, KL Rahul DEMOTED - Check full list</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>Why did ICC reverse the decision?</strong></p>

<p>The ICC said in a statement, "Pursuant to the ICC Pitch and Outfield Monitoring Process, the rating of pitch used for the third Test of the ICC World Test Championship series between India and Australia at the Holkar Cricket Stadium in Indore from 1-3 March has been changed from poor to below average."</p>

<p>"Having reviewed footage of the Test match, the ICC appeal panel, consisting of Wasim Khan, ICC General Manager – Cricket, and Roger Harper, ICC Men’s Cricket Committee Member, were of the opinion that, while the guidelines had been followed by the Match Referee in accordance with Appendix A of the Pitch Monitoring Process, it was deemed that there was not enough excessive variable bounce to warrant the “poor” rating. Instead, the appeal panel concluded that the pitch should be rated as below average,” the statement added.</p>

<p>It is to be noted that the ICC rates the pitches&nbsp; after each and every match in accordance with the Pitch Monitoring Process.&nbsp;The pitches in the entire 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy remained a topic of discussion, with the Nagpur and Delhi pitches being rated 'average' (venue for the first two Tests), but the Indore surface made maximum headlines.</p>


The International Cricket Council (ICC), on Monday (March 27), modified its rating for the Indore Test pitch that was used for the India-Australia third and penultimate Test, at the Holkar Stadium early this month.

The International Cricket Council (ICC), on Monday (March 27), modified its rating for the Indore Test pitch that was used for the India-Australia third and penultimate Test, at the Holkar Stadium early this month. The pitch initially received a poor rating after the match ended in 2 days and a session but the decision has now been reversed after the Board of Control for Cricket in India's (BCCI) appeal. Following match referee Chris Broad's stern assessment of the conditions, the Indore Test pitch was labelled 'poor'; emphasising that it did not provide enough balance between bat and ball. However, BCCI appealed against the decision and now the rating has been changed to 'below average'. Talking about the Indore Test, India opted to bat first but only managed a below par 109 in their first essay with spinner Matthew Kuhnemann taking a five-fer. Australia also fell flat with the bat but managed 197; taking a vital 88-run lead. In reply, Indian batters struggled once again by being rattled for 163 with Nathan Lyon ending with 8 for 64 (11 wickets overall in the match) as Australia chased down a paltry 76-run target with nine wickets in hand in the opening session on Day 3. Also Read: BCCI central contracts: Ravindra Jadeja gets a PROMOTION, KL Rahul DEMOTED - Check full list Why did ICC reverse the decision? The ICC said in a statement, "Pursuant to the ICC Pitch and Outfield Monitoring Process, the rating of pitch used for the third Test of the ICC World Test Championship series between India and Australia at the Holkar Cricket Stadium in Indore from 1-3 March has been changed from poor to below average." "Having reviewed footage of the Test match, the ICC appeal panel, consisting of Wasim Khan, ICC General Manager – Cricket, and Roger Harper, ICC Men’s Cricket Committee Member, were of the opinion that, while the guidelines had been followed by the Match Referee in accordance with Appendix A of the Pitch Monitoring Process, it was deemed that there was not enough excessive variable bounce to warrant the “poor” rating. Instead, the appeal panel concluded that the pitch should be rated as below average,” the statement added. It is to be noted that the ICC rates the pitches after each and every match in accordance with the Pitch Monitoring Process. The pitches in the entire 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy remained a topic of discussion, with the Nagpur and Delhi pitches being rated 'average' (venue for the first two Tests), but the Indore surface made maximum headlines.

Decision reversed! ICC modifies India-Australia Indore pitch rating after BCCI's appeal

<p>The BCCI plans to add two more T20Is to the already scheduled tour of Windies later this year, as per&nbsp;reports. The board is also plotting to fix a short series with either Sri Lanka or Afghanistan right after the World Test Championship final, scheduled in London on June 7th. As of now, India will travel to the Caribbean Islands in July for two Tests, three ODIs, and five T20Is, instead of three earlier.</p>

<p>Although the dates and venues for the same are not out yet, Cricket West Indies (CWI) president Ricky Skerritt, in a statement given to Cricbuzz, informed, "The schedule will be out soonest." This call was taken on the sidelines of the latest ICC meetings in Dubai.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-punjab-kings-announce-uncapped-australian-matthew-short-as-jonny-bairstows-replacement-575684">IPL 2023: Punjab Kings announce uncapped Australian Matthew Short as Jonny Bairstow's replacement</a></p>

<p>When asked if the rumours of two T20Is getting added to the tour are true, Ricky neither accepted nor denied and said, "BCCI and CWI have a healthy bilateral relationship that is based on mutual respect and understanding of each other's needs and role in world cricket," as quoted in Cricbuzz.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, as far as a tour with either Sri Lanka or Afghanistan is concerned, BCCI must find a window to make it happen after the end of the WTC final and before the India-Windies ten-match series, that begins somewhere around 10-12 July. If this goes ahead, the board will also have to find a short-term broadcast deal for that period, as a new deal is unlikely to get signed by then.</p>

<p>However, after the tour of Windies, India will travel to Ireland during the third week of August for the second straight year for three T20Is.</p>

<p>As things stand, the Indian players will first play the IPL from March 31st till May 21st and then will play the WTC final. Afterwards,&nbsp;a series against either Sri Lanka or Afghanistan will go ahead. It doesn’t end here, as team India will then face Windies, and then Ireland and then will compete in the 2023 Asia Cup, whose schedule is not out declared either. India will host Australia for three home ODIs before hosting the World Cup in October-November.</p>


The BCCI plans to add two more T20Is to the already scheduled tour of Windies later this year, as per reports. The board is also plotting to fix a short series with either Sri Lanka or Afghanistan right after the World Test Championship final, scheduled in London on June 7th.

The BCCI plans to add two more T20Is to the already scheduled tour of Windies later this year, as per reports. The board is also plotting to fix a short series with either Sri Lanka or Afghanistan right after the World Test Championship final, scheduled in London on June 7th. As of now, India will travel to the Caribbean Islands in July for two Tests, three ODIs, and five T20Is, instead of three earlier. Although the dates and venues for the same are not out yet, Cricket West Indies (CWI) president Ricky Skerritt, in a statement given to Cricbuzz, informed, "The schedule will be out soonest." This call was taken on the sidelines of the latest ICC meetings in Dubai. ALSO READ: IPL 2023: Punjab Kings announce uncapped Australian Matthew Short as Jonny Bairstow's replacement When asked if the rumours of two T20Is getting added to the tour are true, Ricky neither accepted nor denied and said, "BCCI and CWI have a healthy bilateral relationship that is based on mutual respect and understanding of each other's needs and role in world cricket," as quoted in Cricbuzz. Meanwhile, as far as a tour with either Sri Lanka or Afghanistan is concerned, BCCI must find a window to make it happen after the end of the WTC final and before the India-Windies ten-match series, that begins somewhere around 10-12 July. If this goes ahead, the board will also have to find a short-term broadcast deal for that period, as a new deal is unlikely to get signed by then. However, after the tour of Windies, India will travel to Ireland during the third week of August for the second straight year for three T20Is. As things stand, the Indian players will first play the IPL from March 31st till May 21st and then will play the WTC final. Afterwards, a series against either Sri Lanka or Afghanistan will go ahead. It doesn’t end here, as team India will then face Windies, and then Ireland and then will compete in the 2023 Asia Cup, whose schedule is not out declared either. India will host Australia for three home ODIs before hosting the World Cup in October-November.

BCCI plan to add 2 T20Is on scheduled Windies tour, India could play Sri Lanka in short series after WTC final

<p>Former India player Virender&nbsp;Sehwag, who is considered to be one of the most destructive opening batsmen in the world, has said that he didn't believe that Virat Kohli would reach the heights he has scaled today.</p>

<p>Speaking to a YouTube channel BeerBiceps, Sehwag said, "No one ever doubted his talent but I didn't believe that Kohli would reach the heights he has now. Others may have felt that way but I didn't. Even when he smashed (Lasith) Malinga in that match for fours – I think we needed some 280 inside 40 overs – he scored a wonderful century. So, we knew there was no lacking in talent and that he will score runs but didn't know that he will reach such legendary status and hit 70-75 centuries or score 25,000 runs."</p>

<p>Sehwag explained his thoughts and said that having talent and to convert it into big performances are different things.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/they-are-afraid-ex-pak-batsmans-bizarre-claim-over-india-not-travelling-to-pakistan-for-asia-cup-2023-575574">'They are afraid...': Ex-Pak batsman's BIZARRE claim over India not travelling to Pakistan for Asia Cup 2023</a></p>

<p>"I was doubtful about that because it's one thing to have talent but how long can you convert it into performances. Will he be this mentally strong? Today, he has proven everyone including me wrong. The greatness Kohli has reached today is unbelievable," he added.</p>

<p>Notably, Virat Kohli, who recently ended his three and a half year-long drought of Test centuries, is considered one of the modern greats of the game. Kohli, along with Australia's Steve Smith, New Zealand's Kane Williamson and England's Joe Root, makes much-popular Fab Four quartet.</p>

<p>Kohli currently has 75 international centuries, behind only Sachin Tendulkar's world record 100 tons in the international cricket. Kohli has 28 Test centuries, 46 ODI centuries and one T20I hundred to his name while Tendulkar has 49 ODI tons and 51 Test hundreds and holds record for both.</p>

<p>Virat Kohli, however, is touted to not only break Sachin's century record in ODIs but set a new one with much higher number in the near future. In Test, the record of 51 tons seems a bit far as of now for Kohli.<br />
<br />
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Former India player Virender Sehwag, who is considered to be one of the most destructive opening batsmen in the world, has said that he didn't believe that Virat Kohli would reach the heights he has scaled today.

Former India player Virender Sehwag, who is considered to be one of the most destructive opening batsmen in the world, has said that he didn't believe that Virat Kohli would reach the heights he has scaled today. Speaking to a YouTube channel BeerBiceps, Sehwag said, "No one ever doubted his talent but I didn't believe that Kohli would reach the heights he has now. Others may have felt that way but I didn't. Even when he smashed (Lasith) Malinga in that match for fours – I think we needed some 280 inside 40 overs – he scored a wonderful century. So, we knew there was no lacking in talent and that he will score runs but didn't know that he will reach such legendary status and hit 70-75 centuries or score 25,000 runs." Sehwag explained his thoughts and said that having talent and to convert it into big performances are different things. Also Read: 'They are afraid...': Ex-Pak batsman's BIZARRE claim over India not travelling to Pakistan for Asia Cup 2023 "I was doubtful about that because it's one thing to have talent but how long can you convert it into performances. Will he be this mentally strong? Today, he has proven everyone including me wrong. The greatness Kohli has reached today is unbelievable," he added. Notably, Virat Kohli, who recently ended his three and a half year-long drought of Test centuries, is considered one of the modern greats of the game. Kohli, along with Australia's Steve Smith, New Zealand's Kane Williamson and England's Joe Root, makes much-popular Fab Four quartet. Kohli currently has 75 international centuries, behind only Sachin Tendulkar's world record 100 tons in the international cricket. Kohli has 28 Test centuries, 46 ODI centuries and one T20I hundred to his name while Tendulkar has 49 ODI tons and 51 Test hundreds and holds record for both. Virat Kohli, however, is touted to not only break Sachin's century record in ODIs but set a new one with much higher number in the near future. In Test, the record of 51 tons seems a bit far as of now for Kohli. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Virender Sehwag says he 'didn't believe' Virat Kohli will reach such heights in international cricket

<p>Arch-rivals India and Pakistan are at loggerheads over the venue of two marquee events to be played this year - Asia Cup in September 2023 in Pakistan and ICC ODI World Cup in India after that. After the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) refused to travel to Pakistan for the Asia Cup, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) too threatened to pull back from travelling to India for the ICC ODI World Cup.</p>

<p>Amid the tussle, media outlet, ESPNCricinfo has reported that a neutral venue is being discussed as a possibility for the matches involving the Indian cricket team. A lot of former Pakistan player, including Shahid Afridi and Shoaib Akhtar, however, have asked India to travel to their country for the Asia Cup 2023.</p>

<p>Imran Nazir, another former Pakistan player, meanwhile, has given a bizarre statement, saying India won't come to Pakistan as they are afraid of losing.</p>

<p><strong>Also Watch:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wpl-2023-mumbai-indians-issy-wong-takes-maiden-hat-trick-of-league-against-up-warriroz-watch-575524">WPL 2023: Mumbai Indians' Issy Wong takes maiden hat-trick of league against UP Warriroz&nbsp;</a></p>

<p>Speaking on Nazir Ali podcast, Imran said, "There is no security reason. Just look at how many teams have been to Pakistan. Forget A teams, even Australia visited. These are all just cover-ups. The truth is that India won't come to Pakistan [for the Asia Cup] because they are afraid of losing. Security is just an excuse. Come and play cricket. When you start playing politics, there is no way back."</p>

<p>Notably, Imran was part of the Pakistan squad which lost the inaugural ICC World T20 tournament in 2007 in a thrilling final. Nazir's career spanned from 1999-2012, during which the opening batsman played eight Tests, 79 ODIs and 25 T20Is for his country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the recent past, many teams have travelled to Pakistan, most notable among them is Australia, which took part in a three Test series in the Asian country. Apart from them, England players too travelled to Pakistan for a limited-overs series.</p>

<p>India and Pakistan, now just face off each other in the ICC tournaments only, after having severed cricketing ties in 2012/13 due to the unstable political situation between the two countries.</p>

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Arch-rivals India and Pakistan are at loggerheads over the venue of two marquee events to be played this year - Asia Cup in September 2023 in Pakistan and ICC ODI World Cup in India after that.

Arch-rivals India and Pakistan are at loggerheads over the venue of two marquee events to be played this year - Asia Cup in September 2023 in Pakistan and ICC ODI World Cup in India after that. After the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) refused to travel to Pakistan for the Asia Cup, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) too threatened to pull back from travelling to India for the ICC ODI World Cup. Amid the tussle, media outlet, ESPNCricinfo has reported that a neutral venue is being discussed as a possibility for the matches involving the Indian cricket team. A lot of former Pakistan player, including Shahid Afridi and Shoaib Akhtar, however, have asked India to travel to their country for the Asia Cup 2023. Imran Nazir, another former Pakistan player, meanwhile, has given a bizarre statement, saying India won't come to Pakistan as they are afraid of losing. Also Watch: WPL 2023: Mumbai Indians' Issy Wong takes maiden hat-trick of league against UP Warriroz Speaking on Nazir Ali podcast, Imran said, "There is no security reason. Just look at how many teams have been to Pakistan. Forget A teams, even Australia visited. These are all just cover-ups. The truth is that India won't come to Pakistan [for the Asia Cup] because they are afraid of losing. Security is just an excuse. Come and play cricket. When you start playing politics, there is no way back." Notably, Imran was part of the Pakistan squad which lost the inaugural ICC World T20 tournament in 2007 in a thrilling final. Nazir's career spanned from 1999-2012, during which the opening batsman played eight Tests, 79 ODIs and 25 T20Is for his country. In the recent past, many teams have travelled to Pakistan, most notable among them is Australia, which took part in a three Test series in the Asian country. Apart from them, England players too travelled to Pakistan for a limited-overs series. India and Pakistan, now just face off each other in the ICC tournaments only, after having severed cricketing ties in 2012/13 due to the unstable political situation between the two countries. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'They are afraid...': Ex-Pak batsman's BIZARRE claim over India not travelling to Pakistan for Asia Cup 2023

<p>The ICC ODI World Cup 2023 edition is keenly awaited. Every team is preparing hard for the marquee event which will be held in India entirely. As per a report, the 50-over marquee tournament is set to kick off in early October and will end by mid-November.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per a report in ESPNCricinfo, the 2023 ODI WC will commence on&nbsp;October 05 whereas the finale will be held on November 19 at the iconic Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad. The same report also suggested that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), the host of the ten-team tournament, has finalised as many as a dozen venues for the showpiece event.</p>

<p>Apart from Ahmedabad, the shortlisted cities are&nbsp;Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Dharamsala, Guwahati, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Lucknow, Indore, Rajkot, and Mumbai. It is to be noted that the tournament will be held in the round-robin stage, just like the 2019 edition, and will&nbsp;consist of&nbsp;48 matches including three knockouts across a 46-day period.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/big-blow-to-team-india-shreyas-iyer-to-undergo-surgery-likely-to-skip-ipl-2023-wtc-final-and-odi-wc-574544">Big blow to Team India! Shreyas Iyer to undergo surgery, likely to skip IPL 2023, WTC final and ODI WC</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>Why the delay from BCCI?</strong></p>

<p>The BCCI has not specified venues for any games as of now, nor the two or three cities where the&nbsp;warm-up encounters will take place. It is learned that the delay in finalising the venues has been due to the threat posed by the monsoon season receding at different points across the nation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The International Cricket Council (ICC) usually&nbsp;shares the World Cup schedules, at least, a year in the run-up to the event. However, much to the surprise of cricket fans worldwide, it hasn't been the case this time around. The wait has been prolonged as the Indian cricket board is&nbsp;yet to&nbsp;get the necessary clearance from the&nbsp;government.</p>

<p>The BCCI needs to get a tax exemption for hosting the mega&nbsp;tournament, and also acquire visa clearance for Team Pakistan. The Asian giants have not played a bilateral series in India since early 2013 and their last visit to their neighbouring country was during the 2016 T20 World Cup in India.</p>


The ICC ODI World Cup 2023 edition is keenly awaited. Every team is preparing hard for the marquee event which will be held in India entirely. As per a report, the 50-over marquee tournament is set to kick off in early October and will end by mid-November.

The ICC ODI World Cup 2023 edition is keenly awaited. Every team is preparing hard for the marquee event which will be held in India entirely. As per a report, the 50-over marquee tournament is set to kick off in early October and will end by mid-November. As per a report in ESPNCricinfo, the 2023 ODI WC will commence on October 05 whereas the finale will be held on November 19 at the iconic Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad. The same report also suggested that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), the host of the ten-team tournament, has finalised as many as a dozen venues for the showpiece event. Apart from Ahmedabad, the shortlisted cities are Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Dharamsala, Guwahati, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Lucknow, Indore, Rajkot, and Mumbai. It is to be noted that the tournament will be held in the round-robin stage, just like the 2019 edition, and will consist of 48 matches including three knockouts across a 46-day period. Also Read: Big blow to Team India! Shreyas Iyer to undergo surgery, likely to skip IPL 2023, WTC final and ODI WC Why the delay from BCCI? The BCCI has not specified venues for any games as of now, nor the two or three cities where the warm-up encounters will take place. It is learned that the delay in finalising the venues has been due to the threat posed by the monsoon season receding at different points across the nation. The International Cricket Council (ICC) usually shares the World Cup schedules, at least, a year in the run-up to the event. However, much to the surprise of cricket fans worldwide, it hasn't been the case this time around. The wait has been prolonged as the Indian cricket board is yet to get the necessary clearance from the government. The BCCI needs to get a tax exemption for hosting the mega tournament, and also acquire visa clearance for Team Pakistan. The Asian giants have not played a bilateral series in India since early 2013 and their last visit to their neighbouring country was during the 2016 T20 World Cup in India.

ODI World Cup likely to kick off on October 5, final on November 19 in Ahmedabad: Report

<p>Arch-rivals India and Pakistan have been at loggerheads for quite some time now after India announced that it will not be travelling to Pakistan for Asia Cup in September later this year. Pakistan, in response, also has threated to pull out of ICC ODI World Cup, scheduled to be held in India shortly after the 2023 Asia Cup.</p>

<p>Former Pakistan speedster, Shoaib Akhtar, meanwhile, has said that he's hopeful of both the countries resolving the dispute and travel to each other's country for the respective tournaments.</p>

<p>"India and Pakistan will play the final in the Asia Cup and also in the World Cup. India will come to Pakistan (for Asia Cup) and Pakistan will also travel to India for the World Cup. I am very hopeful that things will improve between India and Pakistan, and trade will open. I urge people from both sides to spread positivity and close the gap instead of burning bridges," said Akhtar in a conversation with media outlet Sports Today.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/odi-world-cup-likely-to-kick-off-on-october-5-final-on-november-19-in-ahmedabad-report-574549">ODI World Cup likely to kick off on October 5, final on November 19 in Ahmedabad: Report</a></p>

<p>The fast bowler also recalled the 2011 World Cup semi-final between the two teams. The match, which was played in Mohali, India, was won by the event hosts on their way to become eventual trophy winners. Akhtar, notably, hadn't played in that match.</p>

<p>"I want to take revenge for the 2011 World Cup, I hadn't played in that match. I want to watch the India vs Pakistan final in Wankhede or Ahmedabad, wherever it happens in India. I will try my level best to watch the final," he said.</p>

<p>The Rawalpindi Express also said that it'll be governments of both the countries that will have to spearhead the talks if the nations have to travel for the both Asia Cup and the World Cup.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"BCCI and PCB have nothing in their own hands. They can't do anything without asking their governments (in the case of bilateral series and travel). So there is no point in giving statements. Both sides should stop giving statements. When things improve between the governments, they talk, and things will improve. Who is PCB or BCCI to stop or start anything? It's in the BCCI's interest if Pakistan land in India for the World Cup. It will be the biggest news at that point in time. But stop running your business," the pacer added.</p>

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Arch-rivals India and Pakistan have been at loggerheads for quite some time now after India announced that it will not be travelling to Pakistan for Asia Cup in September later this year.

Arch-rivals India and Pakistan have been at loggerheads for quite some time now after India announced that it will not be travelling to Pakistan for Asia Cup in September later this year. Pakistan, in response, also has threated to pull out of ICC ODI World Cup, scheduled to be held in India shortly after the 2023 Asia Cup. Former Pakistan speedster, Shoaib Akhtar, meanwhile, has said that he's hopeful of both the countries resolving the dispute and travel to each other's country for the respective tournaments. "India and Pakistan will play the final in the Asia Cup and also in the World Cup. India will come to Pakistan (for Asia Cup) and Pakistan will also travel to India for the World Cup. I am very hopeful that things will improve between India and Pakistan, and trade will open. I urge people from both sides to spread positivity and close the gap instead of burning bridges," said Akhtar in a conversation with media outlet Sports Today. Also Read: ODI World Cup likely to kick off on October 5, final on November 19 in Ahmedabad: Report The fast bowler also recalled the 2011 World Cup semi-final between the two teams. The match, which was played in Mohali, India, was won by the event hosts on their way to become eventual trophy winners. Akhtar, notably, hadn't played in that match. "I want to take revenge for the 2011 World Cup, I hadn't played in that match. I want to watch the India vs Pakistan final in Wankhede or Ahmedabad, wherever it happens in India. I will try my level best to watch the final," he said. The Rawalpindi Express also said that it'll be governments of both the countries that will have to spearhead the talks if the nations have to travel for the both Asia Cup and the World Cup. "BCCI and PCB have nothing in their own hands. They can't do anything without asking their governments (in the case of bilateral series and travel). So there is no point in giving statements. Both sides should stop giving statements. When things improve between the governments, they talk, and things will improve. Who is PCB or BCCI to stop or start anything? It's in the BCCI's interest if Pakistan land in India for the World Cup. It will be the biggest news at that point in time. But stop running your business," the pacer added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'Pak will travel to India': Ex-Pak pacer Shoaib Akhtar on BCCI and PCB dispute over Asia Cup & WC touring

<p>Team India lost the second and penultimate ODI to Australia by ten wickets in the ongoing three-match series at home. Playing the penultimate game, on Sunday (March 18) in Visakhapatnam, Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. were bundled out for a paltry 117, courtesy of Mitchell Starc's five-fer, and lost the contest by ten wickets with 234 balls to spare.</p>

<p>After the heavy defeat, India will aim for a quick turnaround and win the series decider at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai on Wednesday (March 22). Ahead of the series finale, former Indian opener Wasim Jaffer has called for Sanju Samson's inclusion in place of Suryakumar Yadav. It is to be noted that SKY has managed two golden ducks in the series and his place is under threat.</p>

<p>"We have to see if the management sticks with Suryakumar Yadav in the third ODI; otherwise, it’s not a bad option to give Sanju Samson a chance because he has played well when given the opportunity, and he is a good player," Jaffer told&nbsp;<em>ESPNCricinfo.</em></p>

<section>
<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wouldnt-have-applied-if-virat-kohli-had-not-approached-me-sehwag-recalls-being-offered-india-coach-job-574147">Wouldn’t have applied if Virat Kohli had not approached me: Sehwag recalls being offered India coach job</a></strong></p>

<p>Samson isn't part of India's ODI squad at present. He last played for the Men in Blue in early 2023 before an injury, during the home T20Is versus Sri Lanka, ruled him out of action. A fit-again Samson hasn't managed to comeback into the Indian squad since then as the team management preferred SKY after Shreyas Iyer, a regular at the No. 4 spot, recently got injured.</p>

<p>After Surya's twin failures in the Australia ODIs, captain Rohit backed him to come good. After the Vizag ODI, Hitman said, "Of course, he knows that he needs to do it while in a slightly longer format of the game as well. I think things are there in his mind as well. As I said, guys with potential will have enough run where you know they should not feel that ‘Okay, You know I wasn’t given enough chances in that particular slot'."</p>

<p>He added, "We don’t know about (Shreyas) Iyer’s return. At this time there is a spot available so we have to play him (Suryakumar). He has obviously shown a lot of potential with white ball and I have said it many times before (that) guys with potential will be given some run."</p>
</section>


Team India lost the second and penultimate ODI to Australia by ten wickets in the ongoing three-match series at home. Playing the penultimate game, on Sunday (March 18) in Visakhapatnam, Rohit Sharma & Co.

Team India lost the second and penultimate ODI to Australia by ten wickets in the ongoing three-match series at home. Playing the penultimate game, on Sunday (March 18) in Visakhapatnam, Rohit Sharma & Co. were bundled out for a paltry 117, courtesy of Mitchell Starc's five-fer, and lost the contest by ten wickets with 234 balls to spare. After the heavy defeat, India will aim for a quick turnaround and win the series decider at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai on Wednesday (March 22). Ahead of the series finale, former Indian opener Wasim Jaffer has called for Sanju Samson's inclusion in place of Suryakumar Yadav. It is to be noted that SKY has managed two golden ducks in the series and his place is under threat. "We have to see if the management sticks with Suryakumar Yadav in the third ODI; otherwise, it’s not a bad option to give Sanju Samson a chance because he has played well when given the opportunity, and he is a good player," Jaffer told ESPNCricinfo. Also read: Wouldn’t have applied if Virat Kohli had not approached me: Sehwag recalls being offered India coach job Samson isn't part of India's ODI squad at present. He last played for the Men in Blue in early 2023 before an injury, during the home T20Is versus Sri Lanka, ruled him out of action. A fit-again Samson hasn't managed to comeback into the Indian squad since then as the team management preferred SKY after Shreyas Iyer, a regular at the No. 4 spot, recently got injured. After Surya's twin failures in the Australia ODIs, captain Rohit backed him to come good. After the Vizag ODI, Hitman said, "Of course, he knows that he needs to do it while in a slightly longer format of the game as well. I think things are there in his mind as well. As I said, guys with potential will have enough run where you know they should not feel that ‘Okay, You know I wasn’t given enough chances in that particular slot'." He added, "We don’t know about (Shreyas) Iyer’s return. At this time there is a spot available so we have to play him (Suryakumar). He has obviously shown a lot of potential with white ball and I have said it many times before (that) guys with potential will be given some run."

Ind vs Aus, 3rd ODI: Wasim Jaffer calls for Sanju Samson's inclusion after Suryakumar Yadav's twin failures

<p>Rohit Sharma-led India was thrashed by Australia, by ten wickets, in the second and penultimate ODI in Visakhapatnam on Sunday (March 19) as the three-match series is now levelled at 1-1. The series finale will be held at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai on Wednesday (March 21) as the No. 1 ranked Indian team will hope to win another bilateral series in the run-up to the ODI World Cup at home, later this year.</p>

<p>Many have questioned Suryakumar Yadav's place in the Indian XI after his twin failures in the Australia ODIs. He has been out on the first ball in both games so far and, hence, is facing the heat. Former Australian white-ball captain Aaron Finch shared some valuable advice for the under-fire batter.</p>

<p>"Suryakumar got two beauties from Mitchell Starc. But he knows where he would have been bowling, he's got to be sharper than that in the first couple of balls," Finch said on Star Sports after the conclusion of the second and penultimate tie in Vizag.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-rohit-sharma-virat-kohli-or-jasprit-bumrah-shane-watson-names-indias-key-player-for-odi-world-cup-574215">Not Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli or Jasprit Bumrah! Shane Watson names India's key player for ODI World Cup</a></strong></p>

<p>After Surya's two back-to-back golden ducks, captain Rohit continued to back him. After the Vizag ODI, Hitman said, "Of course, he knows that he needs to do it while in a slightly longer format of the game as well. I think things are there in his mind as well. As I said, guys with potential will have enough run where you know they should not feel that ‘Okay, You know I wasn’t given enough chances in that particular slot'."</p>

<p>"We don’t know about (Shreyas) Iyer’s return. At this time there is a spot available so we have to play him (Suryakumar). He has obviously shown a lot of potential with white ball and I have said it many times before (that) guys with potential will be given some run."</p>


Rohit Sharma-led India was thrashed by Australia, by ten wickets, in the second and penultimate ODI in Visakhapatnam on Sunday (March 19) as the three-match series is now levelled at 1-1.

Rohit Sharma-led India was thrashed by Australia, by ten wickets, in the second and penultimate ODI in Visakhapatnam on Sunday (March 19) as the three-match series is now levelled at 1-1. The series finale will be held at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai on Wednesday (March 21) as the No. 1 ranked Indian team will hope to win another bilateral series in the run-up to the ODI World Cup at home, later this year. Many have questioned Suryakumar Yadav's place in the Indian XI after his twin failures in the Australia ODIs. He has been out on the first ball in both games so far and, hence, is facing the heat. Former Australian white-ball captain Aaron Finch shared some valuable advice for the under-fire batter. "Suryakumar got two beauties from Mitchell Starc. But he knows where he would have been bowling, he's got to be sharper than that in the first couple of balls," Finch said on Star Sports after the conclusion of the second and penultimate tie in Vizag. Also Read: Not Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli or Jasprit Bumrah! Shane Watson names India's key player for ODI World Cup After Surya's two back-to-back golden ducks, captain Rohit continued to back him. After the Vizag ODI, Hitman said, "Of course, he knows that he needs to do it while in a slightly longer format of the game as well. I think things are there in his mind as well. As I said, guys with potential will have enough run where you know they should not feel that ‘Okay, You know I wasn’t given enough chances in that particular slot'." "We don’t know about (Shreyas) Iyer’s return. At this time there is a spot available so we have to play him (Suryakumar). He has obviously shown a lot of potential with white ball and I have said it many times before (that) guys with potential will be given some run."

IND vs AUS: Aaron Finch shares advice for under-fire Suryakumar Yadav after his successive golden ducks

<p>India lost the second and penultimate ODI, of the three-match home series, versus Australia on Sunday (March 19). They will now gear up to face Steve Smith-led Aussies in the third and final ODI, in Chennai, on Wednesday (March 22) with the series on the line (levelled at 1-1).</p>

<p>A series win will boost India's confidence as the No. 1 ranked ODI side is preparing hard for the upcoming 50-over World Cup, to be held in India later this year. The Rohit Sharma-led Indian squad features many superstars such as Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya, Shubman Gill, Ishan Kishan, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Jasprit Bumrah (currently out of action due to injury), Ravindra Jadeja, Md Shami and Siraj, etc.</p>

<p>Thus, India are one of the contenders for the ODI World Cup. Former Australian opener and all-rounder Shane Watson opined on India's squad for the mega event and named 29-year-old Hardik as the key player.</p>

<p>"For me, the person who has impressed me a lot as an all-rounder and is very special is Hardik Pandya. He has an amazing batting technique, and he bowls very nicely as well. He has done wonders for India in ODIs and T20Is. He is someone I really love watching play. He (Hardik) is someone who brings some things I wanted to do as a fast-bowling all-rounder. He has done well for India, especially on the big stage. He is a special talent that India has," the Australian told TimesofIndia.com.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/throwback-before-ipl-became-a-thing-when-ganguly-bowled-to-teammates-tendulkar-dravid-watch-574198">Throwback: Before IPL became a thing! When Ganguly bowled to teammates Tendulkar, Dravid - Watch</a></strong></p>

<p>"Hardik will be a key player for Rohit in the World Cup. With his skills with the bat, the power and technique that he has, and the bowling power he has, he will be the key player for India in the World Cup," he added.</p>

<p>Hardik is Rohit's deputy in white-ball formats and has featured in n11 Tests, 73 ODIs, and 87 T20Is. He was part of India's 2019 ODI World Cup campaign, where the Virat Kohli-led side bowed out in the semi-finals. He will be desperate to guide India to the mega title later this year courtesy of his all-round skills.</p>


India lost the second and penultimate ODI, of the three-match home series, versus Australia on Sunday (March 19). They will now gear up to face Steve Smith-led Aussies in the third and final ODI, in Chennai, on Wednesday (March 22) with the series on the line (levelled at 1-1).

India lost the second and penultimate ODI, of the three-match home series, versus Australia on Sunday (March 19). They will now gear up to face Steve Smith-led Aussies in the third and final ODI, in Chennai, on Wednesday (March 22) with the series on the line (levelled at 1-1). A series win will boost India's confidence as the No. 1 ranked ODI side is preparing hard for the upcoming 50-over World Cup, to be held in India later this year. The Rohit Sharma-led Indian squad features many superstars such as Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya, Shubman Gill, Ishan Kishan, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Jasprit Bumrah (currently out of action due to injury), Ravindra Jadeja, Md Shami and Siraj, etc. Thus, India are one of the contenders for the ODI World Cup. Former Australian opener and all-rounder Shane Watson opined on India's squad for the mega event and named 29-year-old Hardik as the key player. "For me, the person who has impressed me a lot as an all-rounder and is very special is Hardik Pandya. He has an amazing batting technique, and he bowls very nicely as well. He has done wonders for India in ODIs and T20Is. He is someone I really love watching play. He (Hardik) is someone who brings some things I wanted to do as a fast-bowling all-rounder. He has done well for India, especially on the big stage. He is a special talent that India has," the Australian told TimesofIndia.com. Also Read: Throwback: Before IPL became a thing! When Ganguly bowled to teammates Tendulkar, Dravid - Watch "Hardik will be a key player for Rohit in the World Cup. With his skills with the bat, the power and technique that he has, and the bowling power he has, he will be the key player for India in the World Cup," he added. Hardik is Rohit's deputy in white-ball formats and has featured in n11 Tests, 73 ODIs, and 87 T20Is. He was part of India's 2019 ODI World Cup campaign, where the Virat Kohli-led side bowed out in the semi-finals. He will be desperate to guide India to the mega title later this year courtesy of his all-round skills.

Not Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli or Jasprit Bumrah! Shane Watson names India's key player for ODI World Cup

<p>Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi has urged India to tour Pakistan for the 2023 Asia Cup amid reports of BCCI denying travelling over security reasons. Following the last ACC meeting where BCCI informed PCB about their decision not to come to Pakistan for the multi-team tournament, Najam Sethi is believed to have threatened its Indian counterpart of boycotting the 2023 World Cup if that happens.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Afridi, who has been vocal about issues related to Kashmir in particular in the past, has said if India comes over to Pakistan for the 2023 Asia Cup, it will not only improve the cricketing ties but will also work as a step towards bettering political relations between both countries. One of the biggest match-winners for Pakistan further said he will be happy if everything goes as per plan.</p>

<p>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-gujarat-titans-upset-over-overseas-star-batter-missing-csk-clash-due-to-national-commitment-573973">IPL 2023: Gujarat Titans 'upset' over overseas star batter missing CSK clash due to national commitment</a></p>

<p>"It would have been really nice if India had come. It would have been a step towards Cricket and Pakistan for India. This is not the generation of wars and fights. We want relationships to get better," Shahid Afridi told the media on the sidelines of the Legends League Cricket (LLC) in Doha.</p>

<p>While almost every team barring India, has travelled to Pakistan over the past few years, that too for full-fledged series, Afridi feels there are no security concerns and that the Asia Cup should go ahead as scheduled.</p>

<p>"As far as the security concern in Pakistan is concerned, we had many international teams travelling here recently. We used to face security threats from India as well, but if permission is received from the government of both countries then the tour will happen. If the tour doesn't happen, we will give those people a chance. All they want is that there should be no cricket between them," Afridi further said.</p>

<p>India last toured Pakistan during the 2008 Asia Cup and in 2006 for the bilateral series. Although both last faced in a bilateral series in India in 2012/2013, since then have just squared off in ICC events only.</p>

<p>The final decision on the future of the 2023 Asia Cup will be decided in the ACC meeting scheduled for this month.</p>


Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi has urged India to tour Pakistan for the 2023 Asia Cup amid reports of BCCI denying travelling over security reasons. Following the last ACC meeting where BCCI informed PCB about their decision not to come to Pakistan for the multi-team tournament, Najam Sethi is believed to have threatened its Indian counterpart of boycotting the 2023 World Cup if that happens.

Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi has urged India to tour Pakistan for the 2023 Asia Cup amid reports of BCCI denying travelling over security reasons. Following the last ACC meeting where BCCI informed PCB about their decision not to come to Pakistan for the multi-team tournament, Najam Sethi is believed to have threatened its Indian counterpart of boycotting the 2023 World Cup if that happens. Meanwhile, Afridi, who has been vocal about issues related to Kashmir in particular in the past, has said if India comes over to Pakistan for the 2023 Asia Cup, it will not only improve the cricketing ties but will also work as a step towards bettering political relations between both countries. One of the biggest match-winners for Pakistan further said he will be happy if everything goes as per plan. ALSO READ: IPL 2023: Gujarat Titans 'upset' over overseas star batter missing CSK clash due to national commitment "It would have been really nice if India had come. It would have been a step towards Cricket and Pakistan for India. This is not the generation of wars and fights. We want relationships to get better," Shahid Afridi told the media on the sidelines of the Legends League Cricket (LLC) in Doha. While almost every team barring India, has travelled to Pakistan over the past few years, that too for full-fledged series, Afridi feels there are no security concerns and that the Asia Cup should go ahead as scheduled. "As far as the security concern in Pakistan is concerned, we had many international teams travelling here recently. We used to face security threats from India as well, but if permission is received from the government of both countries then the tour will happen. If the tour doesn't happen, we will give those people a chance. All they want is that there should be no cricket between them," Afridi further said. India last toured Pakistan during the 2008 Asia Cup and in 2006 for the bilateral series. Although both last faced in a bilateral series in India in 2012/2013, since then have just squared off in ICC events only. The final decision on the future of the 2023 Asia Cup will be decided in the ACC meeting scheduled for this month.

Shahid Afridi urges India to tour Pakistan for 2023 Asia Cup, says security is not a concern anymore

<p>Team India lost the second and penultimate ODI versus Australia in Visakhapatnam on Sunday (March 19). Mitchell Starc's five-fer bundled out India for a paltry 117 as Australia chased down the target with 234 balls to spare; levelling the series 1-1 before the final game on Wednesday (March 22).&nbsp;</p>

<p>India will be desperate to bounce back to winning ways and clinch the series as they continue their preparations for the 2023 ODI World Cup, to be held in India entirely in October-November. Rohit Sharma &amp; Co., the No. 1 ranked ODI side, is one of the favourites for the marquee event, especially with them being the hosts. The last time the 50-over World Cup was held in India was in 2011, with Sri Lanka and Bangladesh also being the co-hosts, when MS Dhoni-led Men in Blue won the championship.</p>

<p>Although India will be strong contenders, Pakistan's former captain and all-rounder Mohammad Hafeez feels the hosts are a strong outfit but lack in one aspect, i.e. of 'not able to perform in the big matches' and will have a point to prove to the world in the 2023 edition.</p>

<p>"Hot favourites are India. India have a big plus point because in the recent past, I feel like it started from the era of Ganguly. They have the mindset of a world-beater. From there, MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli carried on. In the recent past, say in the last 10-12 years, wherever India are playing, they are considered as hot favourites. That is special from India," Hafeez said while speaking to Sports Tak on the sidelines of the Legends League Cricket.</p>

<p>"And when the tournaments happen in India, when big matches happen in India, in bilateral series, oppositions have very little chance. Their success rate is very high. But, when big tournaments come, I think India are lacking in just one aspect. In the recent past, in ICC events, they are not able to perform in the big matches.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/viral-shahid-afridi-signs-on-indian-flag-for-a-fan-during-legends-league-cricket-watch-573745">Viral: Shahid Afridi signs on Indian flag for a fan during Legends League Cricket - Watch</a></strong></p>

<p>"You can describe it many ways, but the pressure of playing in knockout matches in ICC events, that is not there in bilateral series. It's quite similar to playing domestic cricket and international cricket. It's difficult to describe the pressure of playing in ICC knockout matches. India have not been able to handle that pressure in major events.</p>

<p>"They have lost crunch matches, against England they lost the semi-final. In 2017, in the Champions Trophy final, they lost. Then also, they were favourites. This is a pinching point as far as India are concerned. India now have a point to prove to the world. They should come and perform well in ICC major events," Hafeez added.</p>

<p>India's last ICC title, in the senior men's category, came in 2013 during the Champions Trophy in England and Wales.</p>

<p>On Babar Azam-led Pakistan's chances, the 42-year-old Hafeez stated, "Pakistan also will have their chances. They have one of the most versatile and lethal bowling attacks in the world. If you look at the fast-bowlers, they are match-winners. If you look at Shaheen Afridi, if he is fit and firing, the entire world wants to watch him in action. When you talk about spin-bowling, there are Shadab Khan, Imad Wasim and Mohammad Nawaz. There is a new young pace-bowling talent in Ihsanullah, he can also bowl in excess of 150 kph and hit the good areas.</p>

<p>"Pakistan playing in India have to also deal with pressure. Playing in India will mean a lot of pressure. A lot will depend on how much momentum Pakistan take into the World Cup and how the dressing room atmosphere is created to deal with pressure," he concluded.</p>


Team India lost the second and penultimate ODI versus Australia in Visakhapatnam on Sunday (March 19). Mitchell Starc's five-fer bundled out India for a paltry 117 as Australia chased down the target with 234 balls to spare; levelling the series 1-1 before the final game on Wednesday (March 22).

Team India lost the second and penultimate ODI versus Australia in Visakhapatnam on Sunday (March 19). Mitchell Starc's five-fer bundled out India for a paltry 117 as Australia chased down the target with 234 balls to spare; levelling the series 1-1 before the final game on Wednesday (March 22). India will be desperate to bounce back to winning ways and clinch the series as they continue their preparations for the 2023 ODI World Cup, to be held in India entirely in October-November. Rohit Sharma & Co., the No. 1 ranked ODI side, is one of the favourites for the marquee event, especially with them being the hosts. The last time the 50-over World Cup was held in India was in 2011, with Sri Lanka and Bangladesh also being the co-hosts, when MS Dhoni-led Men in Blue won the championship. Although India will be strong contenders, Pakistan's former captain and all-rounder Mohammad Hafeez feels the hosts are a strong outfit but lack in one aspect, i.e. of 'not able to perform in the big matches' and will have a point to prove to the world in the 2023 edition. "Hot favourites are India. India have a big plus point because in the recent past, I feel like it started from the era of Ganguly. They have the mindset of a world-beater. From there, MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli carried on. In the recent past, say in the last 10-12 years, wherever India are playing, they are considered as hot favourites. That is special from India," Hafeez said while speaking to Sports Tak on the sidelines of the Legends League Cricket. "And when the tournaments happen in India, when big matches happen in India, in bilateral series, oppositions have very little chance. Their success rate is very high. But, when big tournaments come, I think India are lacking in just one aspect. In the recent past, in ICC events, they are not able to perform in the big matches. Also read: Viral: Shahid Afridi signs on Indian flag for a fan during Legends League Cricket - Watch "You can describe it many ways, but the pressure of playing in knockout matches in ICC events, that is not there in bilateral series. It's quite similar to playing domestic cricket and international cricket. It's difficult to describe the pressure of playing in ICC knockout matches. India have not been able to handle that pressure in major events. "They have lost crunch matches, against England they lost the semi-final. In 2017, in the Champions Trophy final, they lost. Then also, they were favourites. This is a pinching point as far as India are concerned. India now have a point to prove to the world. They should come and perform well in ICC major events," Hafeez added. India's last ICC title, in the senior men's category, came in 2013 during the Champions Trophy in England and Wales. On Babar Azam-led Pakistan's chances, the 42-year-old Hafeez stated, "Pakistan also will have their chances. They have one of the most versatile and lethal bowling attacks in the world. If you look at the fast-bowlers, they are match-winners. If you look at Shaheen Afridi, if he is fit and firing, the entire world wants to watch him in action. When you talk about spin-bowling, there are Shadab Khan, Imad Wasim and Mohammad Nawaz. There is a new young pace-bowling talent in Ihsanullah, he can also bowl in excess of 150 kph and hit the good areas. "Pakistan playing in India have to also deal with pressure. Playing in India will mean a lot of pressure. A lot will depend on how much momentum Pakistan take into the World Cup and how the dressing room atmosphere is created to deal with pressure," he concluded.

'India have a point to prove': Md Hafeez on Rohit Sharma & Co.'s chances at 2023 ODI World Cup

<p>Virat Kohli ended his Test century-drought during the just-concluded fourth and final Test between India and Australia in Ahmedabad. During the drawn Test match, the former Indian captain top-scored with a brilliant 186 as he ensured India took a 91-run lead after Australia posted 480. While the Test ended in a tame draw, Rohit Sharma-led India won the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2-1 and entered the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the Test match, Kohli interacted with India's head coach Rahul Dravid in a video shared by the Board of Control for Cricket in India's (BCCI) official Twitter handle. In the clip, Dravid asked Kohli if it was 'hard' for him to have not managed to score a hundred in red-ball format since late 2019. To this, Kohli had a brutal yet heartfelt response.</p>

<p>The 34-year-old Kohli said: "To be honest, I've led the complications to grow on me a little bit because of my own shortcomings. I think the desperation to get the 3-figure mark is something that can grow on you as a batsman. We've all experienced that at some stage or the other. I think I led that happen to me to a certain extent."</p>

<p>"But also the flip side to it is that I am not a guy who is happy with 40 or 45 runs. I am someone who always takes pride in performing for the team. It's not like Virat Kohli should stand out. When I am batting on 40, I know I can get a 150 here and that will help my team. That was eating me up a lot. Why am I not able to get that big score for the team because I always took the pride in performing for the team when it needed me, in difficult conditions and difficult situations," he further opined.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fact-check-is-aussie-legend-adam-gilchrist-the-richest-cricketer-in-the-world-heres-the-truth-571877">FACT CHECK: Is Aussie legend Adam Gilchrist the richest cricketer in the world? Here's the TRUTH</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A conversation full of calmness, respect &amp; inspiration written all over it! 😊 🙌<br />
<br />
A special post series-win chat with <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> Head Coach Rahul Dravid &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad 👍 👍 - By <a href="https://twitter.com/RajalArora?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RajalArora</a><br />
<br />
FULL INTERVIEW 🔽 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAUS</a><a href="https://t.co/nF0XfltRg2">https://t.co/nF0XfltRg2</a> <a href="https://t.co/iHU1jZ1CKG">pic.twitter.com/iHU1jZ1CKG</a></p>
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<p><strong>'Everyone is saying we want a hundred. So, it's like, it does play on your mind'</strong></p>

<p>Kohli asserted, "The fact that I wasn't able to do that was bother me. Not so much the milestone as such as I don't play for it. A lot of people ask me this question, 'how do you keep scoring a hundred?'. I always told them, a hundred is something that happens along the way within my goal which is to bat as long as possible for the team and get as many runs as possible. So, the milestone is never my focus. But yes, I have to be brutally honest, it&nbsp;does become a little complicated because the moment you step out of the hotel room, right from the guy outside the room to the guy in the lift to the bus driver, everyone is saying we want a hundred. So, it's like, it does play on your mind."</p>

<p>"But I think that's the beauty of playing so long as well, to have these complications come and over come these challenges. When it comes together, like it did in this game, that gives you an extra gust of air to go beyond, go further and start enjoying cricket a lot more and be excited for what's to come. I am just happy that it happened at the right time, before the World Test Championship final. I will definitely be going there pretty relaxed," concluded the former Indian captain.</p>

<p>Kohli will be eager to score another ton in India's next Test match, which will be the WTC final versus Australia at The Oval, London on June 07. Under him, India lost the inaugural WTC finale to New Zealand and, hence, he will be eager to guide India to the elusive title this time around. Currently, he is gearing up for the home ODIs versus Australia before IPL 2023's commencement.</p>


Virat Kohli ended his Test century-drought during the just-concluded fourth and final Test between India and Australia in Ahmedabad. During the drawn Test match, the former Indian captain top-scored with a brilliant 186 as he ensured India took a 91-run lead after Australia posted 480.

Virat Kohli ended his Test century-drought during the just-concluded fourth and final Test between India and Australia in Ahmedabad. During the drawn Test match, the former Indian captain top-scored with a brilliant 186 as he ensured India took a 91-run lead after Australia posted 480. While the Test ended in a tame draw, Rohit Sharma-led India won the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2-1 and entered the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final. After the Test match, Kohli interacted with India's head coach Rahul Dravid in a video shared by the Board of Control for Cricket in India's (BCCI) official Twitter handle. In the clip, Dravid asked Kohli if it was 'hard' for him to have not managed to score a hundred in red-ball format since late 2019. To this, Kohli had a brutal yet heartfelt response. The 34-year-old Kohli said: "To be honest, I've led the complications to grow on me a little bit because of my own shortcomings. I think the desperation to get the 3-figure mark is something that can grow on you as a batsman. We've all experienced that at some stage or the other. I think I led that happen to me to a certain extent." "But also the flip side to it is that I am not a guy who is happy with 40 or 45 runs. I am someone who always takes pride in performing for the team. It's not like Virat Kohli should stand out. When I am batting on 40, I know I can get a 150 here and that will help my team. That was eating me up a lot. Why am I not able to get that big score for the team because I always took the pride in performing for the team when it needed me, in difficult conditions and difficult situations," he further opined. Also Read: FACT CHECK: Is Aussie legend Adam Gilchrist the richest cricketer in the world? Here's the TRUTH A conversation full of calmness, respect & inspiration written all over it! 😊 🙌 A special post series-win chat with #TeamIndia Head Coach Rahul Dravid & @imVkohli at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad 👍 👍 - By @RajalArora FULL INTERVIEW 🔽 #INDvAUShttps://t.co/nF0XfltRg2 pic.twitter.com/iHU1jZ1CKG — BCCI (@BCCI) March 14, 2023 × 'Everyone is saying we want a hundred. So, it's like, it does play on your mind' Kohli asserted, "The fact that I wasn't able to do that was bother me. Not so much the milestone as such as I don't play for it. A lot of people ask me this question, 'how do you keep scoring a hundred?'. I always told them, a hundred is something that happens along the way within my goal which is to bat as long as possible for the team and get as many runs as possible. So, the milestone is never my focus. But yes, I have to be brutally honest, it does become a little complicated because the moment you step out of the hotel room, right from the guy outside the room to the guy in the lift to the bus driver, everyone is saying we want a hundred. So, it's like, it does play on your mind." "But I think that's the beauty of playing so long as well, to have these complications come and over come these challenges. When it comes together, like it did in this game, that gives you an extra gust of air to go beyond, go further and start enjoying cricket a lot more and be excited for what's to come. I am just happy that it happened at the right time, before the World Test Championship final. I will definitely be going there pretty relaxed," concluded the former Indian captain. Kohli will be eager to score another ton in India's next Test match, which will be the WTC final versus Australia at The Oval, London on June 07. Under him, India lost the inaugural WTC finale to New Zealand and, hence, he will be eager to guide India to the elusive title this time around. Currently, he is gearing up for the home ODIs versus Australia before IPL 2023's commencement.

'It does become...': Kohli's 'brutally honest' reply to Dravid's question on century drought - WATCH

<p>Mohammed Shami removed Marnus Labuschagne's stumps with a brilliant delivery in the morning session of the opening day of the fourth and final Test between India and Australia in Ahmedabad. After Steve Smith-led Australia won the toss and opted to bat first, they were off to a good start courtesy of Travis Head-Usman Khawaja's 61-run opening stand before R Ashwin removed the former and Shami struck very soon to get rid of Labuschagne.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Talking about the delivery that removed Labuschagne, the ball nipped in from a back of a length and kept low. The Aussie star batter punched the ball through off-side but got a thick edge and the ball ricocheted to strike the stumps. <strong>Here's the video of Labuschagne's dismissal:</strong></p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-pm-modi-and-his-australian-counterpart-anthony-albanese-meet-ind-aus-players-before-4th-test-570105">WATCH: PM Modi and his Australian counterpart Anthony Albanese meet Ind-Aus players before 4th Test</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">𝐓.𝐈.𝐌.𝐁.𝐄.𝐑 🔥<a href="https://twitter.com/MdShami11?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MdShami11</a> sends back Labuschagne to scalp the second wicket for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> 👌<br />
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Follow the match ▶️ <a href="https://t.co/8DPghkx0DE">https://t.co/8DPghkx0DE</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAUS</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/mastercardindia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mastercardindia</a> <a href="https://t.co/LT3ao2kFBk">pic.twitter.com/LT3ao2kFBk</a></p>
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<p>In the first session -- which was also attended by Prime&nbsp;Minister Narendra Modi and his Australian counterpart Anthony Albanese -- India achieved two breakthroughs only. Australia started off on a confident note before Ashwin induced a poor stroke from Head's willow and Shami removed Labuschagne. At the lunch break, Australia was 75 for 2 and will aim to dominate proceedings in the second and third session in a bid to post a big total.</p>

<p>Rohit Sharma-led India have to win the fourth and final Test, at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad, to not only clinch the four-match series -- which they lead 2-1 currently -- but to also qualify for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final. Australia have already made it to the finale after their Indore Test victory.</p>


Mohammed Shami removed Marnus Labuschagne's stumps with a brilliant delivery in the morning session of the opening day of the fourth and final Test between India and Australia in Ahmedabad.

Mohammed Shami removed Marnus Labuschagne's stumps with a brilliant delivery in the morning session of the opening day of the fourth and final Test between India and Australia in Ahmedabad. After Steve Smith-led Australia won the toss and opted to bat first, they were off to a good start courtesy of Travis Head-Usman Khawaja's 61-run opening stand before R Ashwin removed the former and Shami struck very soon to get rid of Labuschagne. Talking about the delivery that removed Labuschagne, the ball nipped in from a back of a length and kept low. The Aussie star batter punched the ball through off-side but got a thick edge and the ball ricocheted to strike the stumps. Here's the video of Labuschagne's dismissal: Also read: WATCH: PM Modi and his Australian counterpart Anthony Albanese meet Ind-Aus players before 4th Test 𝐓.𝐈.𝐌.𝐁.𝐄.𝐑 🔥@MdShami11 sends back Labuschagne to scalp the second wicket for #TeamIndia 👌 Follow the match ▶️ https://t.co/8DPghkx0DE#INDvAUS | @mastercardindia pic.twitter.com/LT3ao2kFBk — BCCI (@BCCI) March 9, 2023 × In the first session -- which was also attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Australian counterpart Anthony Albanese -- India achieved two breakthroughs only. Australia started off on a confident note before Ashwin induced a poor stroke from Head's willow and Shami removed Labuschagne. At the lunch break, Australia was 75 for 2 and will aim to dominate proceedings in the second and third session in a bid to post a big total. Rohit Sharma-led India have to win the fourth and final Test, at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad, to not only clinch the four-match series -- which they lead 2-1 currently -- but to also qualify for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final. Australia have already made it to the finale after their Indore Test victory.

CLEANED UP! Md Shami rattles Marnus Labuschagne's stumps on Day 1 of Ahmedabad Test - Watch

<p>India and Australia locked horns on Day 1 of the fourth and final Test, in Ahmedabad, on Thursday (March 9). After Steve Smith-led Aussies opted to bat first, the visitors ended the day at 255&nbsp;for 4 with Usman Khawaja remaining unbeaten on 104*. The day belonged to Australia as they batted consciously and Indian bowlers were made to work hard for every wicket. Eventually, Md Shami ended the opening day with two scalps whereas R Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja shared a wicket each.</p>

<p>Shami got both the wickets by cleaning up the stumps. Firstly, he got rid of Marnus Labuschagne before also claiming the scalp of Peter Handscomb. Talking about Handscomb's dismissal, Shami hit the deck on a good length and the ball straightened off the deck. The batter was caught on the back foot and completely got beaten to see his stumps get rattled.<strong> Here's the video of the dismissal:</strong></p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cleaned-up-md-shami-rattles-marnus-labuschagnes-stumps-on-day-1-of-ahmedabad-test-watch-570152">CLEANED UP! Md Shami rattles Marnus Labuschagne's stumps on Day 1 of Ahmedabad Test - Watch</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">As good as it gets! 🔥🔥<a href="https://twitter.com/MdShami11?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MdShami11</a> uproots the off-stump to dismiss Handscomb for 17! 👏👏<br />
<br />
Australia 170/4.<br />
<br />
Follow the match ▶️ <a href="https://t.co/8DPghkx0DE">https://t.co/8DPghkx0DE</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAUS</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/mastercardindia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mastercardindia</a> <a href="https://t.co/2hXFYhvslW">pic.twitter.com/2hXFYhvslW</a></p>
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<p>After Handscomb's fall, there was no further breakthrough for Team India. Rohit &amp; Co. struggled to break Khawaja-Cameron Green's fifth-wicket stand. The duo stitched 85 runs go take Australia's score to 255 for 4 at stumps on Day 1. After stumps, Khawaja told the broadcasters, "A lot of emotion in that. Has been a long journey, getting a hundred, as an Australian you always want to do that. It's very special. Head took the new ball down. He was smacking them. Was pretty good to watch that from the other end. It was such a nice wicket, I didn't want to give my wicket away. It was a mental battle more than anything else. You need to keep doing it for a long time. I had the helmet in my right hand, I told him (Green) just me a hug, instead of a high five (following his century). I have no superstitions, I stretched a bit in the morning and I was ready to go."</p>

<p>Rohit &amp; Co. will hope for quick wickets on Day 2, on Friday (March 10), to restrict the Aussies below 320. At present, it looks a herculean task for the hosts. India lead the series 2-1 and need a win to not only take the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy 3-1 and enter the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final.</p>


India and Australia locked horns on Day 1 of the fourth and final Test, in Ahmedabad, on Thursday (March 9). After Steve Smith-led Aussies opted to bat first, the visitors ended the day at 255 for 4 with Usman Khawaja remaining unbeaten on 104*.

India and Australia locked horns on Day 1 of the fourth and final Test, in Ahmedabad, on Thursday (March 9). After Steve Smith-led Aussies opted to bat first, the visitors ended the day at 255 for 4 with Usman Khawaja remaining unbeaten on 104*. The day belonged to Australia as they batted consciously and Indian bowlers were made to work hard for every wicket. Eventually, Md Shami ended the opening day with two scalps whereas R Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja shared a wicket each. Shami got both the wickets by cleaning up the stumps. Firstly, he got rid of Marnus Labuschagne before also claiming the scalp of Peter Handscomb. Talking about Handscomb's dismissal, Shami hit the deck on a good length and the ball straightened off the deck. The batter was caught on the back foot and completely got beaten to see his stumps get rattled. Here's the video of the dismissal: Also read: CLEANED UP! Md Shami rattles Marnus Labuschagne's stumps on Day 1 of Ahmedabad Test - Watch As good as it gets! 🔥🔥@MdShami11 uproots the off-stump to dismiss Handscomb for 17! 👏👏 Australia 170/4. Follow the match ▶️ https://t.co/8DPghkx0DE#INDvAUS | @mastercardindia pic.twitter.com/2hXFYhvslW — BCCI (@BCCI) March 9, 2023 × After Handscomb's fall, there was no further breakthrough for Team India. Rohit & Co. struggled to break Khawaja-Cameron Green's fifth-wicket stand. The duo stitched 85 runs go take Australia's score to 255 for 4 at stumps on Day 1. After stumps, Khawaja told the broadcasters, "A lot of emotion in that. Has been a long journey, getting a hundred, as an Australian you always want to do that. It's very special. Head took the new ball down. He was smacking them. Was pretty good to watch that from the other end. It was such a nice wicket, I didn't want to give my wicket away. It was a mental battle more than anything else. You need to keep doing it for a long time. I had the helmet in my right hand, I told him (Green) just me a hug, instead of a high five (following his century). I have no superstitions, I stretched a bit in the morning and I was ready to go." Rohit & Co. will hope for quick wickets on Day 2, on Friday (March 10), to restrict the Aussies below 320. At present, it looks a herculean task for the hosts. India lead the series 2-1 and need a win to not only take the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy 3-1 and enter the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final.

WATCH: Md Shami dismisses Peter Handscomb with a peach of a delivery on Day 1 of 4th Test

<p>India and Australia commenced the fourth and final Test of the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, on Thursday (March 09), at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad. After Steve Smith-led Australia opted to bat first at the coin toss, the Aussie openers Travis Head and Usman Khawaja added 61 runs for the first wicket. However, India could have had their first breakthrough in the sixth over had wicketkeeper-batter KS Bharat held onto a regulation catch.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The incident took place in the sixth over when Umesh Yadav had the ball in hand. He induced an edge off in-form Head and it went straight to Bharat, who has impressed one and all with his keeping skills in the series. However, the 29-year-old made a mess of a simple catch and dropped it. The cameras soon turned towards skipper Rohit Sharma, who had a blank reaction to the mistake from Bharat. <strong>Here's the video:</strong></p>

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— javed ansari (@javedan00643948) <a href="https://twitter.com/javedan00643948/status/1633687178013474821?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 9, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cleaned-up-md-shami-rattles-marnus-labuschagnes-stumps-on-day-1-of-ahmedabad-test-watch-570152">CLEANED UP! Md Shami rattles Marnus Labuschagne's stumps on Day 1 of Ahmedabad Test - Watch</a></strong></p>

<p>In the first session, Australia managed to get to 75 runs and lost Head and Marnus Labuschagne. Head was given a lifeline when he was batting on five and eventually fell for 32. Labuschagne, on the other hand, saw his stumps being rattled by&nbsp;Md Shami but the visitors had opener Usman Khawaja unbeaten during the lunch break. At the time of publishing this report, Khawaja-Smith have managed to keep Indian bowlers at bay post the lunch break and are moving the scoreboard forward.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Australia will aim for anything over 350 in the four-match Test series decider in Ahmedabad. India lead the series 2-1 but need a win to not only clinch the series but also qualify for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) finale, where Australia have already confirmed a spot.</p>


India and Australia commenced the fourth and final Test of the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, on Thursday (March 09), at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad.

India and Australia commenced the fourth and final Test of the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, on Thursday (March 09), at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad. After Steve Smith-led Australia opted to bat first at the coin toss, the Aussie openers Travis Head and Usman Khawaja added 61 runs for the first wicket. However, India could have had their first breakthrough in the sixth over had wicketkeeper-batter KS Bharat held onto a regulation catch. The incident took place in the sixth over when Umesh Yadav had the ball in hand. He induced an edge off in-form Head and it went straight to Bharat, who has impressed one and all with his keeping skills in the series. However, the 29-year-old made a mess of a simple catch and dropped it. The cameras soon turned towards skipper Rohit Sharma, who had a blank reaction to the mistake from Bharat. Here's the video: Gussa pic.twitter.com/BIexaLfsm3 — javed ansari (@javedan00643948) March 9, 2023 × Also read: CLEANED UP! Md Shami rattles Marnus Labuschagne's stumps on Day 1 of Ahmedabad Test - Watch In the first session, Australia managed to get to 75 runs and lost Head and Marnus Labuschagne. Head was given a lifeline when he was batting on five and eventually fell for 32. Labuschagne, on the other hand, saw his stumps being rattled by Md Shami but the visitors had opener Usman Khawaja unbeaten during the lunch break. At the time of publishing this report, Khawaja-Smith have managed to keep Indian bowlers at bay post the lunch break and are moving the scoreboard forward. Australia will aim for anything over 350 in the four-match Test series decider in Ahmedabad. India lead the series 2-1 but need a win to not only clinch the series but also qualify for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) finale, where Australia have already confirmed a spot.

WATCH: KS Bharat drops a sitter to give a reprieve to Travis Head, Rohit Sharma's blank reaction goes viral

<p>Rohit Sharma-led India lost the Indore Test versus Australia as the visitors kept the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy alive with hosts leading 2-1, ahead of the final match in Ahmedabad. Rohit &amp; Co. received a setback but will be hungry for success in the series decider, which kicks off on March 09 (Thursday), to not only win the series 3-1 but also qualify for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final.</p>

<p>With Australia having already qualified for the WTC final, following their win in Indore, they will come hard versus the Indian team. Ahead of the Ahmedabad Test, former Aussie captain Ricky Ponting has urged the Rohit-Rahul Dravid-led Indian team to consider making one big change in their batting line-up if they reach the WTC finale, to be held at The Oval, London on June 07-11.</p>

<p>With conditions being different in England, as compared to the sub-continent, Ponting feels India should go ahead with both out-of-form KL Rahul and Shubman Gill. "With someone like KL Rahul having gone out of this side and Shubman Gill having come in, both these guys have played a bit of Test match cricket, and you could potentially have both of those guys in the same team," Ponting told ICC.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nz-vs-sl-explained-how-sri-lanka-can-play-spoilsport-to-indias-wtc-final-chances-569483">NZ vs SL: EXPLAINED! How Sri Lanka can play spoilsport to India's WTC final chances</a></strong></p>

<p>"Maybe Shubman could start at the top and KL could potentially move down into the middle order, because he's played cricket in those (English) conditions before, albeit at the top of the order," he added.</p>

<p>Gill replaced Rahul in India's playing XI for the third and penultimate Test in Indore versus Australia. Rahul has been in woeful form in whites, managing only 192 runs in last 12 innings, but his replacement Gill also fell flat in both the innings of the Indore Test match. The young right-hander managed scores of 21 anf 5 as India lost by nine wickets in a low-scoring match.</p>

<p>It will be interesting to see if India go back to Rahul or persist with Gill for the final Test. It is highly unlikely that India will go ahead with both of them in the playing XI for the Ahmedabad Test.</p>


Rohit Sharma-led India lost the Indore Test versus Australia as the visitors kept the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy alive with hosts leading 2-1, ahead of the final match in Ahmedabad.

Rohit Sharma-led India lost the Indore Test versus Australia as the visitors kept the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy alive with hosts leading 2-1, ahead of the final match in Ahmedabad. Rohit & Co. received a setback but will be hungry for success in the series decider, which kicks off on March 09 (Thursday), to not only win the series 3-1 but also qualify for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final. With Australia having already qualified for the WTC final, following their win in Indore, they will come hard versus the Indian team. Ahead of the Ahmedabad Test, former Aussie captain Ricky Ponting has urged the Rohit-Rahul Dravid-led Indian team to consider making one big change in their batting line-up if they reach the WTC finale, to be held at The Oval, London on June 07-11. With conditions being different in England, as compared to the sub-continent, Ponting feels India should go ahead with both out-of-form KL Rahul and Shubman Gill. "With someone like KL Rahul having gone out of this side and Shubman Gill having come in, both these guys have played a bit of Test match cricket, and you could potentially have both of those guys in the same team," Ponting told ICC. Also read: NZ vs SL: EXPLAINED! How Sri Lanka can play spoilsport to India's WTC final chances "Maybe Shubman could start at the top and KL could potentially move down into the middle order, because he's played cricket in those (English) conditions before, albeit at the top of the order," he added. Gill replaced Rahul in India's playing XI for the third and penultimate Test in Indore versus Australia. Rahul has been in woeful form in whites, managing only 192 runs in last 12 innings, but his replacement Gill also fell flat in both the innings of the Indore Test match. The young right-hander managed scores of 21 anf 5 as India lost by nine wickets in a low-scoring match. It will be interesting to see if India go back to Rahul or persist with Gill for the final Test. It is highly unlikely that India will go ahead with both of them in the playing XI for the Ahmedabad Test.

Ricky Ponting urges Team India to make a big change in batting order if they enter WTC final

<p><strong>The Women's Premier League 2023 (WPL)</strong> is all set to kick off on March 4th, and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has launched a mobile application for the league. Fans can download the official WPL app from the Google Play store to get all the latest updates, including match highlights, press conferences, and recaps.</p>

<p>The WPL app is similar to the Indian Premier League (IPL) app, which has been hugely successful. With the launch of the WPL app, the BCCI is leaving no stone unturned to make WPL 2023 a massive success.<br />
The opening ceremony of the WPL 2023 season will take place in Mumbai, and it is expected to be a grand affair. AP Dhillon, a famous Punjabi singer, will be performing at the event, which will also feature Bollywood actresses Kriti Sanon and Kiara Advani.</p>

<p>The DY Patil Stadium in Mumbai is expected to be packed for the opening ceremony and the first match between Mumbai Indians and Gujarat Giants. Fans who miss the live action can catch all the latest content, including match highlights and press conferences, on the WPL app.</p>

<h2><strong>How to watch the WPLmatches LIVE for free on your mobile and laptop</strong></h2>

<p>Women cricket fans should know that the WPL 2023 matches will be live-streamed on Jio Cinema app for free. People can download the Jio Cinema app on their mobile and laptop to access the free live stream of the WPL 2023 matches. Additionally, the WPL matches will be live broadcasted on Sports 18 network.</p>

<h2><strong>When will the WPL 2023 season start?</strong></h2>

<p>The WPL 2023 season will start on Saturday, March 4.</p>

<h2><strong>Which teams will compete in the WPL 2023 season?</strong></h2>

<p>Five teams will compete in the WPL 2023 season - Gujarat Giants, Mumbai Indians, Royal Challengers Bangalore, Delhi Capitals and UP Warriorz.</p>

<h2><strong>Who will play in the opening match of the WPL 2023 season?</strong></h2>

<p>The Gujarat Giants will host the Mumbai Indians in the opening contest of the WPL 2023 at the Dr. DY Patil Sports Academy in Navi Mumbai.</p>

<h2><strong>Who is the most expensive player in the WPL season?</strong></h2>

<p>Smriti Mandhana is the most expensive player in the WPL 2023 season having attracted a price of Rs 3.4 crore from Royal Challengers Bangalore.</p>

<h2><strong>Where will the WPL 2023 season be played?</strong></h2>

<p>The WPL 2023 season will be played at the Brabourne Stadium in Mumbai and the Dr DY Patil Sports Academy in Navi Mumbai.</p>

<h2><strong>What is the per-match valuation of a WPL 2023 match?</strong></h2>

<p>A WPL 2023 season match is valued at more than Rs 7 core each.</p>

<h2><strong>Where will the WPL 2023 season get broadcast?</strong></h2>

<p>The WPL 2023 season will be broadcasted on the Sports 18 Network.</p>

<h2><strong>Where can the WPL 2023 season get live-streamed?</strong></h2>

<p>The WPL 2023 season will be live-streamed on the Jio Cinema App.</p>


The Women's Premier League 2023 (WPL) is all set to kick off on March 4th, and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has launched a mobile application for the league.

The Women's Premier League 2023 (WPL) is all set to kick off on March 4th, and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has launched a mobile application for the league. Fans can download the official WPL app from the Google Play store to get all the latest updates, including match highlights, press conferences, and recaps. The WPL app is similar to the Indian Premier League (IPL) app, which has been hugely successful. With the launch of the WPL app, the BCCI is leaving no stone unturned to make WPL 2023 a massive success. The opening ceremony of the WPL 2023 season will take place in Mumbai, and it is expected to be a grand affair. AP Dhillon, a famous Punjabi singer, will be performing at the event, which will also feature Bollywood actresses Kriti Sanon and Kiara Advani. The DY Patil Stadium in Mumbai is expected to be packed for the opening ceremony and the first match between Mumbai Indians and Gujarat Giants. Fans who miss the live action can catch all the latest content, including match highlights and press conferences, on the WPL app. How to watch the WPLmatches LIVE for free on your mobile and laptop Women cricket fans should know that the WPL 2023 matches will be live-streamed on Jio Cinema app for free. People can download the Jio Cinema app on their mobile and laptop to access the free live stream of the WPL 2023 matches. Additionally, the WPL matches will be live broadcasted on Sports 18 network. When will the WPL 2023 season start? The WPL 2023 season will start on Saturday, March 4. Which teams will compete in the WPL 2023 season? Five teams will compete in the WPL 2023 season - Gujarat Giants, Mumbai Indians, Royal Challengers Bangalore, Delhi Capitals and UP Warriorz. Who will play in the opening match of the WPL 2023 season? The Gujarat Giants will host the Mumbai Indians in the opening contest of the WPL 2023 at the Dr. DY Patil Sports Academy in Navi Mumbai. Who is the most expensive player in the WPL season? Smriti Mandhana is the most expensive player in the WPL 2023 season having attracted a price of Rs 3.4 crore from Royal Challengers Bangalore. Where will the WPL 2023 season be played? The WPL 2023 season will be played at the Brabourne Stadium in Mumbai and the Dr DY Patil Sports Academy in Navi Mumbai. What is the per-match valuation of a WPL 2023 match? A WPL 2023 season match is valued at more than Rs 7 core each. Where will the WPL 2023 season get broadcast? The WPL 2023 season will be broadcasted on the Sports 18 Network. Where can the WPL 2023 season get live-streamed? The WPL 2023 season will be live-streamed on the Jio Cinema App.

Women’s Premier League 2023: BCCI launches official WPL mobile app; Here is everything you need to know

<p>The 2023 Asia Cup has been much talked about. While Pakistan will host the 50-over continental tournament, the venue isn't finalised as India have made it clear that they won't travel to their neighbouring country due to the strained political relations between both sides. A final decision on the venue is likely to be out by March but Pakistan will remain the host for sure.</p>

<p>Ever since the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Secretary Jay Shah revealed, in late 2022, that Team India won't get government clearance to go to Pakistan for the tournament, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) have not taken things lightly. The then PCB chief Ramiz Raja had revealed that Pakistan will boycott the 2023 ODI World Cup, in India, if the Men in Blue pull out of Asia Cup. Now, Kamran Akmal -- the veteran keeper-batter -- has joined the bandwagon and backed Ramiz's claims.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-anjum-chopra-consoles-an-emotional-harmanpreet-kaur-after-indias-t20-world-cup-exit-565493">WATCH: Anjum Chopra consoles an emotional Harmanpreet Kaur after India's T20 World Cup exit</a></strong></p>

<p>Speaking on the Nadir Ali podcast, Kamran said that Pakistan also have respect and they shouldn't travel to their neighbouring country if India doesn't turn up for the Asia Cup.</p>

<p>"If India do not agree to come for the Asia Cup, we should not go to India to play the 2023 World Cup there. Hamaari bhi respect hai (We are also well respected). We have been world champions too, have topped rankings in all formats and have won the Champions Trophy too. This is between two governments; until they are on the same page, the teams won't go with each other. We have to see how long it goes," Kamran said.</p>

<p>India and Pakistan's senior men's team had last met during the 2022 T20 World Cup, in Australia, where Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. beat Babar Azam-led Men in Green by five wickets.</p>


The 2023 Asia Cup has been much talked about. While Pakistan will host the 50-over continental tournament, the venue isn't finalised as India have made it clear that they won't travel to their neighbouring country due to the strained political relations between both sides.

The 2023 Asia Cup has been much talked about. While Pakistan will host the 50-over continental tournament, the venue isn't finalised as India have made it clear that they won't travel to their neighbouring country due to the strained political relations between both sides. A final decision on the venue is likely to be out by March but Pakistan will remain the host for sure. Ever since the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Secretary Jay Shah revealed, in late 2022, that Team India won't get government clearance to go to Pakistan for the tournament, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) have not taken things lightly. The then PCB chief Ramiz Raja had revealed that Pakistan will boycott the 2023 ODI World Cup, in India, if the Men in Blue pull out of Asia Cup. Now, Kamran Akmal -- the veteran keeper-batter -- has joined the bandwagon and backed Ramiz's claims. Also Read: WATCH: Anjum Chopra consoles an emotional Harmanpreet Kaur after India's T20 World Cup exit Speaking on the Nadir Ali podcast, Kamran said that Pakistan also have respect and they shouldn't travel to their neighbouring country if India doesn't turn up for the Asia Cup. "If India do not agree to come for the Asia Cup, we should not go to India to play the 2023 World Cup there. Hamaari bhi respect hai (We are also well respected). We have been world champions too, have topped rankings in all formats and have won the Champions Trophy too. This is between two governments; until they are on the same page, the teams won't go with each other. We have to see how long it goes," Kamran said. India and Pakistan's senior men's team had last met during the 2022 T20 World Cup, in Australia, where Rohit Sharma & Co. beat Babar Azam-led Men in Green by five wickets.

We are also well respected: Kamran Akmal in favour of Pak boycotting ODI WC if Ind pull out of Asia Cup

<p>Yuvraj Singh represented India in 40 Tests, 304 ODIs and 58 T20Is. He is regarded as one of the greatest white-ball all-rounders in world cricket. He was India's hero during their title run in the 2007 T20 World Cup and 2011 ODI World Cup. However, former Sri Lanka player Russell Arnold has made a shocking claim about the ex-Indian cricketer. Arnold compared both Yuvraj and MS Dhoni -- two of India's greatest middle-order batters -- and feels the former wasn't good at absorbing pressure.</p>

<p>During a conversation with former Indian cricket WV Raman, Arnold made the glaring remark. While discussing Dhoni and Yuvraj, the Sri Lankan opined that Dhoni was more adept in playing both defensively and aggressively&nbsp;as per&nbsp;the situation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"He could play both roles, there are very few who could do that. Both roles meant that when he needed to absorb pressure, he could do it. That was my strength, but I could hit a boundary now and then but not consistently score 15 runs or more. You give me eight to 10 (runs to score in an over), and I'll back myself. But Dhoni would back himself with 15 or 20 on the board and hit those big sixes consistently," Arnold pointed out.</p>

<section>
<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-was-offered-captaincy-but-shoaib-akhtar-reveals-why-he-said-no-to-leading-pakistan-in-2002-564718">'I was offered captaincy but...': Shoaib Akhtar reveals why he said NO to leading Pakistan in 2002</a></strong></p>

<p>He added, "To be able to play both roles as expertly as he did, he is in a very different league. Not many players can play both those roles. You get players with flamboyance and come close to hitting those boundaries. Like Yuvraj Singh. But Yuvraj could not absorb the pressure when needed and play with his partner the way Dhoni did. Yuvraj had to be the boss to be extravagant and express himself. That was when he was at his best. But Dhoni was at his best at both ends of the line. He could be defensive and absorb pressure and throw those punches as well."</p>

<section>
<p>Yuvraj and Dhoni are regarded as two of the finest players, especially in limited overs. Both won India innumerable matches with their memorable partnerships and made the Men in Blue one of the strongest sides during their playing days.</p>

<p>It will be interesting to see if Yuvraj responds to Arnold's claims.</p>
</section>
</section>


Yuvraj Singh represented India in 40 Tests, 304 ODIs and 58 T20Is. He is regarded as one of the greatest white-ball all-rounders in world cricket. He was India's hero during their title run in the 2007 T20 World Cup and 2011 ODI World Cup.

Yuvraj Singh represented India in 40 Tests, 304 ODIs and 58 T20Is. He is regarded as one of the greatest white-ball all-rounders in world cricket. He was India's hero during their title run in the 2007 T20 World Cup and 2011 ODI World Cup. However, former Sri Lanka player Russell Arnold has made a shocking claim about the ex-Indian cricketer. Arnold compared both Yuvraj and MS Dhoni -- two of India's greatest middle-order batters -- and feels the former wasn't good at absorbing pressure. During a conversation with former Indian cricket WV Raman, Arnold made the glaring remark. While discussing Dhoni and Yuvraj, the Sri Lankan opined that Dhoni was more adept in playing both defensively and aggressively as per the situation. "He could play both roles, there are very few who could do that. Both roles meant that when he needed to absorb pressure, he could do it. That was my strength, but I could hit a boundary now and then but not consistently score 15 runs or more. You give me eight to 10 (runs to score in an over), and I'll back myself. But Dhoni would back himself with 15 or 20 on the board and hit those big sixes consistently," Arnold pointed out. Also Read: 'I was offered captaincy but...': Shoaib Akhtar reveals why he said NO to leading Pakistan in 2002 He added, "To be able to play both roles as expertly as he did, he is in a very different league. Not many players can play both those roles. You get players with flamboyance and come close to hitting those boundaries. Like Yuvraj Singh. But Yuvraj could not absorb the pressure when needed and play with his partner the way Dhoni did. Yuvraj had to be the boss to be extravagant and express himself. That was when he was at his best. But Dhoni was at his best at both ends of the line. He could be defensive and absorb pressure and throw those punches as well." Yuvraj and Dhoni are regarded as two of the finest players, especially in limited overs. Both won India innumerable matches with their memorable partnerships and made the Men in Blue one of the strongest sides during their playing days. It will be interesting to see if Yuvraj responds to Arnold's claims.

Yuvraj couldn't absorb pressure and play with his partner the way Dhoni did, claims former SL cricketer

<p>India's senior cricket teams -- both men's and women's -- are on a roll in international cricket. While Rohit Sharma-led India have taken an unassailable 2-0 lead in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2022/23, at home, versus Australia, the Harmanpreet Kaur-led&nbsp;side entered the T20 World Cup semi-finals on Monday (February 20).</p>

<p>There is more to rejoice for Indian fans as&nbsp;the jerseys of the Men in Blue is likely to&nbsp;get an upgrade. It is to be noted that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is&nbsp;close to roping in a big clothing brand as the jersey sponsor for Rohit &amp; Co.</p>

<p>As per a report by News18, the BCCI is close to signing a deal with Adidas as the official apparel sponsor. The deal is will kick off&nbsp;from June 2023. It will last for five years,&nbsp;until March 2028, according to the report.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/babar-azam-hasnt-become-pakistans-biggest-brand-as-he-cant-speak-english-shoaib-akhtar-564252">Babar Azam hasn't become Pakistan's biggest brand as he can’t speak English: Shoaib Akhtar</a></strong></p>

<p>Currently, the deal lies with Kewal Kiran Clothing Company, a&nbsp;parent company of Killer Jeans. They came into the picture after Mobile Premier League (MPL) backed out of their deal in November 2020.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Talking about Rohit-led India, they are on fire in the ongoing Test series versus Pat Cummins-led Baggy Greens. After winning the first Test, in Nagpur, by an innings and 132 runs, they beat the visitors by six wickets in the second Test in New Delhi to go 2-0 up in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. The third and penultimate Test kicks off at Holkar Stadium, Indore on March 01.</p>

<p>India will aim for a whitewash and storm into the WTC final.&nbsp;</p>


India's senior cricket teams -- both men's and women's -- are on a roll in international cricket. While Rohit Sharma-led India have taken an unassailable 2-0 lead in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2022/23, at home, versus Australia, the Harmanpreet Kaur-led side entered the T20 World Cup semi-finals on Monday (February 20).

India's senior cricket teams -- both men's and women's -- are on a roll in international cricket. While Rohit Sharma-led India have taken an unassailable 2-0 lead in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2022/23, at home, versus Australia, the Harmanpreet Kaur-led side entered the T20 World Cup semi-finals on Monday (February 20). There is more to rejoice for Indian fans as the jerseys of the Men in Blue is likely to get an upgrade. It is to be noted that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is close to roping in a big clothing brand as the jersey sponsor for Rohit & Co. As per a report by News18, the BCCI is close to signing a deal with Adidas as the official apparel sponsor. The deal is will kick off from June 2023. It will last for five years, until March 2028, according to the report. Also Read: Babar Azam hasn't become Pakistan's biggest brand as he can’t speak English: Shoaib Akhtar Currently, the deal lies with Kewal Kiran Clothing Company, a parent company of Killer Jeans. They came into the picture after Mobile Premier League (MPL) backed out of their deal in November 2020. Talking about Rohit-led India, they are on fire in the ongoing Test series versus Pat Cummins-led Baggy Greens. After winning the first Test, in Nagpur, by an innings and 132 runs, they beat the visitors by six wickets in the second Test in New Delhi to go 2-0 up in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. The third and penultimate Test kicks off at Holkar Stadium, Indore on March 01. India will aim for a whitewash and storm into the WTC final.

BCCI likely to ink a deal with Adidas as Team India's official apparel sponsor: Report

<p>India thrashed Australia by six wickets on Day 3 of the second Test, at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi, to go 2-0 up in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. While Australia did put up a better show in the Test match, till the first innings, they fell flat in their second essay and gave a paltry 114-run target to Team India. In reply, Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. chased down the score with six wickets to spare and take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the process.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The likes of Rohit, R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Md Shami have been India's top-performers so far but opener KL Rahul has been struggling for runs. The 30-year-old&nbsp;has only managed 198 runs in the last 12 innings. In the ongoing Test series, Rahul has a&nbsp;total of 38 runs in three innings and has looked completely out of form. Thus, many have slammed the Indian batter and former pacer Venkatesh Prasad has been quite vocal in his criticism of Rahul. He has time and again vented out his frustration with Rahul struggling for runs. Amid severe criticism, both captain Rohit Sharma and Rahul Dravid have backed the underfire opener.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the Delhi Test win, Dravid told Star Sports, "I&nbsp;think he (Rahul) needs to trust his processes. This is just a phase, he has been one of our most successful overseas openers. He’s got centuries in South Africa and England, we’ll continue to back him. I believe he has the quality and class to come out of this."</p>

<p>Now, Prasad broke the notion of Rahul having a good overseas record and shared a series of tweets -- also comprising the opener's ordinary away numbers. He wrote, "There is a view that KL Rahul has an outstanding overseas Test record. But stats speak otherwise. He has a test avg of 30 overseas in 56 innings. He has scored 6 overseas centuries but followed it up with a string of low scores that’s why averaging 30. Let’s look at a few others. Shikhar Dhawan has the best overseas average amongst recent openers. Avg of nearly 40 with 5 100’s. Though he too hasn’t been consistent in Test but had Outstanding centuries in SL and NZ, plus a much better home record."</p>

<p>Further, Prasad added, "Mayank Agarwal after the brilliant start in Aust did struggle in away test matches. But he has by far the best home record. Avg of nearly 70 in 13 innings,2 double 100’s &amp; a 150 on a Wankhede pitch where everyone else struggled. Great against spin &amp; had a prolific domestic season. Shubhman Gill has had a brief international career and in 14 overseas innings averages 37, with his 91 at Gabba amongst the best overseas 4th innings and has been in outstanding form," he added in a long thread on Monday, February 20.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">There is a view that KL Rahul has an outstanding overseas Test record. But stats speak otherwise. He has a test avg of 30 overseas in 56 innings. He has scored 6 overseas centuries but followed it up with a string of low scores that’s why averaging 30. Let’s look at a few others <a href="https://t.co/MAvHM01TcY">pic.twitter.com/MAvHM01TcY</a></p>
— Venkatesh Prasad (@venkateshprasad) <a href="https://twitter.com/venkateshprasad/status/1627528809720483840?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Shikhar Dhawan has the best overseas average amongst recent openers. Avg of nearly 40 with 5 100’s. Though he too hasn’t been consistent in Test but had Outstanding centuries in SL and NZ, plus a much better home record. <a href="https://t.co/rH94R0a3A0">pic.twitter.com/rH94R0a3A0</a></p>
— Venkatesh Prasad (@venkateshprasad) <a href="https://twitter.com/venkateshprasad/status/1627529402614706176?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Mayank Agarwal after the brilliant start in Aust did struggle in away test matches.But he has by far the best home record. Avg of nearly 70 in 13 innings,2 double 100’s &amp; a 150 on a Wankhede pitch where everyone else struggled. Great against spin &amp; had a prolific domestic season <a href="https://t.co/EJOsZEbOCP">pic.twitter.com/EJOsZEbOCP</a></p>
— Venkatesh Prasad (@venkateshprasad) <a href="https://twitter.com/venkateshprasad/status/1627530331862745089?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">And if overseas performance is a criteria, Ajinkya Rahane despite being out of form and also inconsistent before being dropped had obe of the best overseas Test record, averaging over 40 overseas in 50 test matches. Was out of form and dropped … <a href="https://t.co/2Uj5YZe9Cr">pic.twitter.com/2Uj5YZe9Cr</a></p>
— Venkatesh Prasad (@venkateshprasad) <a href="https://twitter.com/venkateshprasad/status/1627532250714898434?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">But with KL being retained for the remaining 2 test matches, if he is picked in the playing 11, Indore is his best chance of coming back to form and silencing critics like me. Else needs to play county cricket, perform well and make a comeback in the Test side.</p>
— Venkatesh Prasad (@venkateshprasad) <a href="https://twitter.com/venkateshprasad/status/1627535177118527488?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-revealed-why-kl-rahul-has-been-axed-as-indias-vice-captain-for-remaining-tests-563823">IND vs AUS: Revealed! Why KL Rahul has been axed as India's vice-captain for remaining Tests</a></strong></p>

<p>Speaking about Rahul's Test career, the right-hander has&nbsp;2,642 runs in 47 Tests at an average of&nbsp;33.44 with 7 hundreds. He has two hundreds in England and one each in India, Sri Lanka, South Africa, West Indies and Australia. At home, he averages 40.13 but it goes down drastically in away Tests (30.69).</p>

<p>At the post-match press conference of the Delhi Test, captain Rohit indicated that Rahul will be given a longer rope. "Lately, there has been a lot of talk about Rahul’s batting. As team management, we always look at the potential of any individual, not just KL. I have been asked this in the past about a lot of players. If a guy has potential, he will get that extended run,” Sharma said.</p>

<p>Rahul has lost his vice-captaincy post for the remainder of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Hence, he will be desperate for a big knock in the remainder of the Australia Tests.&nbsp;</p>


India thrashed Australia by six wickets on Day 3 of the second Test, at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi, to go 2-0 up in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. While Australia did put up a better show in the Test match, till the first innings, they fell flat in their second essay and gave a paltry 114-run target to Team India.

India thrashed Australia by six wickets on Day 3 of the second Test, at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi, to go 2-0 up in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. While Australia did put up a better show in the Test match, till the first innings, they fell flat in their second essay and gave a paltry 114-run target to Team India. In reply, Rohit Sharma & Co. chased down the score with six wickets to spare and take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the process. The likes of Rohit, R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Md Shami have been India's top-performers so far but opener KL Rahul has been struggling for runs. The 30-year-old has only managed 198 runs in the last 12 innings. In the ongoing Test series, Rahul has a total of 38 runs in three innings and has looked completely out of form. Thus, many have slammed the Indian batter and former pacer Venkatesh Prasad has been quite vocal in his criticism of Rahul. He has time and again vented out his frustration with Rahul struggling for runs. Amid severe criticism, both captain Rohit Sharma and Rahul Dravid have backed the underfire opener. After the Delhi Test win, Dravid told Star Sports, "I think he (Rahul) needs to trust his processes. This is just a phase, he has been one of our most successful overseas openers. He’s got centuries in South Africa and England, we’ll continue to back him. I believe he has the quality and class to come out of this." Now, Prasad broke the notion of Rahul having a good overseas record and shared a series of tweets -- also comprising the opener's ordinary away numbers. He wrote, "There is a view that KL Rahul has an outstanding overseas Test record. But stats speak otherwise. He has a test avg of 30 overseas in 56 innings. He has scored 6 overseas centuries but followed it up with a string of low scores that’s why averaging 30. Let’s look at a few others. Shikhar Dhawan has the best overseas average amongst recent openers. Avg of nearly 40 with 5 100’s. Though he too hasn’t been consistent in Test but had Outstanding centuries in SL and NZ, plus a much better home record." Further, Prasad added, "Mayank Agarwal after the brilliant start in Aust did struggle in away test matches. But he has by far the best home record. Avg of nearly 70 in 13 innings,2 double 100’s & a 150 on a Wankhede pitch where everyone else struggled. Great against spin & had a prolific domestic season. Shubhman Gill has had a brief international career and in 14 overseas innings averages 37, with his 91 at Gabba amongst the best overseas 4th innings and has been in outstanding form," he added in a long thread on Monday, February 20. There is a view that KL Rahul has an outstanding overseas Test record. But stats speak otherwise. He has a test avg of 30 overseas in 56 innings. He has scored 6 overseas centuries but followed it up with a string of low scores that’s why averaging 30. Let’s look at a few others pic.twitter.com/MAvHM01TcY — Venkatesh Prasad (@venkateshprasad) February 20, 2023 × Shikhar Dhawan has the best overseas average amongst recent openers. Avg of nearly 40 with 5 100’s. Though he too hasn’t been consistent in Test but had Outstanding centuries in SL and NZ, plus a much better home record. pic.twitter.com/rH94R0a3A0 — Venkatesh Prasad (@venkateshprasad) February 20, 2023 × Mayank Agarwal after the brilliant start in Aust did struggle in away test matches.But he has by far the best home record. Avg of nearly 70 in 13 innings,2 double 100’s & a 150 on a Wankhede pitch where everyone else struggled. Great against spin & had a prolific domestic season pic.twitter.com/EJOsZEbOCP — Venkatesh Prasad (@venkateshprasad) February 20, 2023 × And if overseas performance is a criteria, Ajinkya Rahane despite being out of form and also inconsistent before being dropped had obe of the best overseas Test record, averaging over 40 overseas in 50 test matches. Was out of form and dropped … pic.twitter.com/2Uj5YZe9Cr — Venkatesh Prasad (@venkateshprasad) February 20, 2023 × But with KL being retained for the remaining 2 test matches, if he is picked in the playing 11, Indore is his best chance of coming back to form and silencing critics like me. Else needs to play county cricket, perform well and make a comeback in the Test side. — Venkatesh Prasad (@venkateshprasad) February 20, 2023 × Also Read: IND vs AUS: Revealed! Why KL Rahul has been axed as India's vice-captain for remaining Tests Speaking about Rahul's Test career, the right-hander has 2,642 runs in 47 Tests at an average of 33.44 with 7 hundreds. He has two hundreds in England and one each in India, Sri Lanka, South Africa, West Indies and Australia. At home, he averages 40.13 but it goes down drastically in away Tests (30.69). At the post-match press conference of the Delhi Test, captain Rohit indicated that Rahul will be given a longer rope. "Lately, there has been a lot of talk about Rahul’s batting. As team management, we always look at the potential of any individual, not just KL. I have been asked this in the past about a lot of players. If a guy has potential, he will get that extended run,” Sharma said. Rahul has lost his vice-captaincy post for the remainder of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Hence, he will be desperate for a big knock in the remainder of the Australia Tests.

Venkatesh Prasad once again slams KL Rahul, hits back at 'he has great overseas Test record' claims

<p>India defeated Australia on Day 3 of the second Test at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi on Sunday (February 19). The day kicked off with Australia being well-placed at 61 for 1, with an overall lead of 62 runs, but fell flat on the third day after being dismissed for a paltry 113. Ravindra Jadeja (7 for 42) wreaked havoc with the red cherry before Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. chased down a target of 114 with six wickets in hand. With the win, India have an unassailable 2-0 lead in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy and BCCI later named an unchanged squad for the last two Tests.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, there was one big update. Indian opener KL Rahul was axed as the vice-captain amid his form concerns. It is to be noted that the stylish right-hander has only managed 198 runs in the last 12 innings. In the ongoing Test series versus the Baggy Greens, he has a&nbsp;total of 38 runs in three innings and has looked completely out of sorts. Thus, it is believed that he paid a price for his poor run of form and has been sacked as Rohit's deputy.&nbsp;As per a report by The Indian Express, the management has sought to unburden Rahul from the leadership role.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-pat-cummins-to-fly-home-mid-way-into-india-series-set-to-return-ahead-of-indore-test-563777">IND vs AUS: Pat Cummins to fly home mid-way into India series, set to return ahead of Indore Test</a></strong></p>

<p>It is to be noted that Rahul has served as Rohit's deputy ever since Hitman became India's full-time captain in early 2022. He led the national side in three Tests, six ODIs and one T20I in 2022 and served as India's white-ball vice-captain before losing the post to Hardik Pandya last month. Hence, he is now completely out of the leadership group and will have to step up with the bat to regain the vice-captaincy post, at least,&nbsp;in whites.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Amid his poor run of form, Rahul still has the support of captain Rohit and head coach Rahul Dravid. After the Delhi Test, Rohit told in the post-match press conference, "Lately, there has been a lot of talk about Rahul’s batting. As team management, we always look at the potential of any individual, not just KL. I have been asked this in the past about a lot of players. If a guy has potential, he will get that extended run."</p>

<p>On the other hand, Dravid told Star Sports, "I&nbsp;think he (Rahul) needs to trust his processes. This is just a phase, he has been one of our most successful overseas openers. He’s got centuries in South Africa and England, we’ll continue to back him. I believe he has the quality and class to come out of this."</p>


India defeated Australia on Day 3 of the second Test at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi on Sunday (February 19). The day kicked off with Australia being well-placed at 61 for 1, with an overall lead of 62 runs, but fell flat on the third day after being dismissed for a paltry 113.

India defeated Australia on Day 3 of the second Test at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi on Sunday (February 19). The day kicked off with Australia being well-placed at 61 for 1, with an overall lead of 62 runs, but fell flat on the third day after being dismissed for a paltry 113. Ravindra Jadeja (7 for 42) wreaked havoc with the red cherry before Rohit Sharma & Co. chased down a target of 114 with six wickets in hand. With the win, India have an unassailable 2-0 lead in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy and BCCI later named an unchanged squad for the last two Tests. However, there was one big update. Indian opener KL Rahul was axed as the vice-captain amid his form concerns. It is to be noted that the stylish right-hander has only managed 198 runs in the last 12 innings. In the ongoing Test series versus the Baggy Greens, he has a total of 38 runs in three innings and has looked completely out of sorts. Thus, it is believed that he paid a price for his poor run of form and has been sacked as Rohit's deputy. As per a report by The Indian Express, the management has sought to unburden Rahul from the leadership role. Also Read: IND vs AUS: Pat Cummins to fly home mid-way into India series, set to return ahead of Indore Test It is to be noted that Rahul has served as Rohit's deputy ever since Hitman became India's full-time captain in early 2022. He led the national side in three Tests, six ODIs and one T20I in 2022 and served as India's white-ball vice-captain before losing the post to Hardik Pandya last month. Hence, he is now completely out of the leadership group and will have to step up with the bat to regain the vice-captaincy post, at least, in whites. Amid his poor run of form, Rahul still has the support of captain Rohit and head coach Rahul Dravid. After the Delhi Test, Rohit told in the post-match press conference, "Lately, there has been a lot of talk about Rahul’s batting. As team management, we always look at the potential of any individual, not just KL. I have been asked this in the past about a lot of players. If a guy has potential, he will get that extended run." On the other hand, Dravid told Star Sports, "I think he (Rahul) needs to trust his processes. This is just a phase, he has been one of our most successful overseas openers. He’s got centuries in South Africa and England, we’ll continue to back him. I believe he has the quality and class to come out of this."

IND vs AUS: Revealed! Why KL Rahul has been axed as India's vice-captain for remaining Tests

<p>Rohit Sharma-led India gained an unassailable 2-0 lead in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, on Sunday (February 19), with a six-wicket win on Day 3 of the second Test at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi. With this win, India have strengthened their chances of reaching the ICC World Test Championship final and look set to whitewash the Aussies in the four-match series with Pat Cummins &amp; Co. being clueless in front of the Indian spin trio.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After losing the Nagpur Test by an innings and 132 runs, Australia did put up a better show in the first innings of the Delhi Test. They managed 263 in their first essay and dismissed India for 262, gaining one-run lead, but fell flat in their second innings with their batters playing the sweep shots on a&nbsp;track which kept low, with Jadeja-Ashwin troubling them with spin. After the game, former Pakistan captain and PCB chairman Ramiz Raja feels 'Australia are not prepared' and went on to add that 'it is nearly impossible to beat Team India in India.'</p>

<p>"The Australians used to finish games against sub-continent teams in Perth or Brisbane. The tables have turned," Ramiz Raja said in his YouTube show. "It shows that Australia are not prepared, especially when it comes to playing good Test cricket in India. It's nearly impossible to beat Team India in India. An ordinary performance against spin. Nine wickets were dismissed in one session. Jadeja produced an excellent bowling performance," Raja added.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-revealed-why-kl-rahul-has-been-axed-as-indias-vice-captain-for-remaining-tests-563823">IND vs AUS: Revealed! Why KL Rahul has been axed as India's vice-captain for remaining Tests</a></strong></p>

<p>India will be eager to go for a 4-0 whitewash versus the Aussies and storm their way into the WTC final. As of now, it looks certain that both sides will lock horns in the summit clash, to be held in early June at The Oval, London.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>India’s Test squad for third and fourth Test against Australia: </strong>Rohit Sharma (Captain), K L Rahul, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, KS Bharat (wk), Ishan Kishan (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, Umesh Yadav, Jaydev Unadkat.</p>


Rohit Sharma-led India gained an unassailable 2-0 lead in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, on Sunday (February 19), with a six-wicket win on Day 3 of the second Test at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi.

Rohit Sharma-led India gained an unassailable 2-0 lead in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, on Sunday (February 19), with a six-wicket win on Day 3 of the second Test at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi. With this win, India have strengthened their chances of reaching the ICC World Test Championship final and look set to whitewash the Aussies in the four-match series with Pat Cummins & Co. being clueless in front of the Indian spin trio. After losing the Nagpur Test by an innings and 132 runs, Australia did put up a better show in the first innings of the Delhi Test. They managed 263 in their first essay and dismissed India for 262, gaining one-run lead, but fell flat in their second innings with their batters playing the sweep shots on a track which kept low, with Jadeja-Ashwin troubling them with spin. After the game, former Pakistan captain and PCB chairman Ramiz Raja feels 'Australia are not prepared' and went on to add that 'it is nearly impossible to beat Team India in India.' "The Australians used to finish games against sub-continent teams in Perth or Brisbane. The tables have turned," Ramiz Raja said in his YouTube show. "It shows that Australia are not prepared, especially when it comes to playing good Test cricket in India. It's nearly impossible to beat Team India in India. An ordinary performance against spin. Nine wickets were dismissed in one session. Jadeja produced an excellent bowling performance," Raja added. Also Read: IND vs AUS: Revealed! Why KL Rahul has been axed as India's vice-captain for remaining Tests India will be eager to go for a 4-0 whitewash versus the Aussies and storm their way into the WTC final. As of now, it looks certain that both sides will lock horns in the summit clash, to be held in early June at The Oval, London. India’s Test squad for third and fourth Test against Australia: Rohit Sharma (Captain), K L Rahul, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, KS Bharat (wk), Ishan Kishan (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, Umesh Yadav, Jaydev Unadkat.

BGT 2022/23: Beating India at home is almost impossible, says Ramiz Raja after Rohit & Co. take 2-0 lead

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


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

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

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

<p>On Tuesday (February 14), all hell broke loose after explosive revelations were out from Chetan Sharma sting operation. The BCCI chief selector spoke at length about Virat Kohli vs Sourav Ganguly rift, alleged rift rumours between Kohli-Rohit Sharma, talked about doping in Indian cricket and many more. His revelations have gone viral with many having plenty to say about the chief selector's claims, in the sting operation carried out by Zee News.</p>

<p>The former Indian cricketer revealed how Kohli felt it was former BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly behind his ODI captaincy sacking, rubbished rumours of rift between Rohit and Kohli, spoke at length on how players are desperate to hold on to their respective spots and play despite not being fully fit. After such explosive comments, social media platforms have been flooded with several reactions, including memes. <strong>Here are some memes on the entire Chetan Sharma sting operation:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Behind the scene of the Chetan Sharma sting operation. <a href="https://t.co/VSQKBxWRfT">pic.twitter.com/VSQKBxWRfT</a></p>
— Silly Point (@FarziCricketer) <a href="https://twitter.com/FarziCricketer/status/1625537763864092672?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 14, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Someone, right now. 😆 <a href="https://t.co/BlQlfQtRjl">pic.twitter.com/BlQlfQtRjl</a></p>
— KSR (@KShriniwasRao) <a href="https://twitter.com/KShriniwasRao/status/1625526403126145025?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 14, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">BCCI and Chetan Sharma politics exposed.<br />
<br />
Fans -<a href="https://t.co/CECEQuK9eH">pic.twitter.com/CECEQuK9eH</a></p>
— Pratham. (@75thHundredWhen) <a href="https://twitter.com/75thHundredWhen/status/1625524728583815168?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 14, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">P.O.V according to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChetanSharma?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChetanSharma</a> : <a href="https://t.co/0OSRlxhFgS">pic.twitter.com/0OSRlxhFgS</a></p>
— Valdimiputin ( Parody account) (@valdimiputin) <a href="https://twitter.com/valdimiputin/status/1625702369202692101?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-virat-kohli-tried-to-defame-sourav-ganguly-in-the-media-but-it-backfired-says-chetan-sharma-561986">Exclusive: Virat Kohli tried to defame Sourav Ganguly in the media but it backfired, says Chetan Sharma</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>CLAIMS MADE BY CHETAN SHARMA</strong></p>

<p><strong>On Kohli vs Ganguly</strong></p>

<p>When a player grows in stature, he starts thinking that he was become very big, bigger than the board even. Then he starts thinking that nobody can stand against him. Without him, the cricket will stop. But has that ever happened? Many big players came and went, but cricket is still there; it remains the same. He wanted to confront the then-BCCI president.&nbsp;I was present in the selection meeting. Kohli was clearly told by the BCCI president to re-think his decision to quit the T20I captaincy. We all told him to reconsider his decision. But he lied to the media when he said that he got no such suggestion from anyone in the board.</p>

<p>He was addressing the media ahead of the South Africa tour. He unnecessarily brought up the issue of what transpired in the selection committee.</p>

<p><strong>On Kohli vs Rohit alleged rift</strong></p>

<p>There are no rifts between Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, they support each other. Both are like Amitabh and Dharmendra.</p>

<p><strong>Do players hide their injuries to play?</strong></p>

<p>Maybe 10-15% do that and they ask us to let them play but medical science does not let them. Players obviously want to play; they do not want to miss any matches. In case of [Jaspreet] Bumrah, he wasn't even able to bend down so what could he do? There are only handful of such cases, however some of them, they just take injections on their own and they say they are fine.</p>

<p>Thus, Chetan Sharma's claims have become a huge talking point in the cricket fraternity. A strict action is expected by the BCCI in the coming few days. At present, the Rohit Sharma-led senior men's team is gearing up for the second Test versus Australia, in New Delhi, after winning the series opener, in Nagpur, by an innings and 132 runs.</p>

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On Tuesday (February 14), all hell broke loose after explosive revelations were out from Chetan Sharma sting operation. The BCCI chief selector spoke at length about Virat Kohli vs Sourav Ganguly rift, alleged rift rumours between Kohli-Rohit Sharma, talked about doping in Indian cricket and many more.

On Tuesday (February 14), all hell broke loose after explosive revelations were out from Chetan Sharma sting operation. The BCCI chief selector spoke at length about Virat Kohli vs Sourav Ganguly rift, alleged rift rumours between Kohli-Rohit Sharma, talked about doping in Indian cricket and many more. His revelations have gone viral with many having plenty to say about the chief selector's claims, in the sting operation carried out by Zee News. The former Indian cricketer revealed how Kohli felt it was former BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly behind his ODI captaincy sacking, rubbished rumours of rift between Rohit and Kohli, spoke at length on how players are desperate to hold on to their respective spots and play despite not being fully fit. After such explosive comments, social media platforms have been flooded with several reactions, including memes. Here are some memes on the entire Chetan Sharma sting operation: Behind the scene of the Chetan Sharma sting operation. pic.twitter.com/VSQKBxWRfT — Silly Point (@FarziCricketer) February 14, 2023 × Someone, right now. 😆 pic.twitter.com/BlQlfQtRjl — KSR (@KShriniwasRao) February 14, 2023 × BCCI and Chetan Sharma politics exposed. Fans -pic.twitter.com/CECEQuK9eH — Pratham. (@75thHundredWhen) February 14, 2023 × P.O.V according to #ChetanSharma : pic.twitter.com/0OSRlxhFgS — Valdimiputin ( Parody account) (@valdimiputin) February 15, 2023 × Also Read: Exclusive: Virat Kohli tried to defame Sourav Ganguly in the media but it backfired, says Chetan Sharma CLAIMS MADE BY CHETAN SHARMA On Kohli vs Ganguly When a player grows in stature, he starts thinking that he was become very big, bigger than the board even. Then he starts thinking that nobody can stand against him. Without him, the cricket will stop. But has that ever happened? Many big players came and went, but cricket is still there; it remains the same. He wanted to confront the then-BCCI president. I was present in the selection meeting. Kohli was clearly told by the BCCI president to re-think his decision to quit the T20I captaincy. We all told him to reconsider his decision. But he lied to the media when he said that he got no such suggestion from anyone in the board. He was addressing the media ahead of the South Africa tour. He unnecessarily brought up the issue of what transpired in the selection committee. On Kohli vs Rohit alleged rift There are no rifts between Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, they support each other. Both are like Amitabh and Dharmendra. Do players hide their injuries to play? Maybe 10-15% do that and they ask us to let them play but medical science does not let them. Players obviously want to play; they do not want to miss any matches. In case of [Jaspreet] Bumrah, he wasn't even able to bend down so what could he do? There are only handful of such cases, however some of them, they just take injections on their own and they say they are fine. Thus, Chetan Sharma's claims have become a huge talking point in the cricket fraternity. A strict action is expected by the BCCI in the coming few days. At present, the Rohit Sharma-led senior men's team is gearing up for the second Test versus Australia, in New Delhi, after winning the series opener, in Nagpur, by an innings and 132 runs. ×

Chetan Sharma quits as BCCI chief selector: Memes galore after staggering revelations in TV sting operation

Chetan Sharma resigned with immediate effect after the TV sting operation where the BCCI chief selector made some explosive remarks about the Indian cricket team.

Chetan Sharma Resigns: BCCI Chief Selector resigns following WION’s expose | India | Game Over

<p>Chetan Sharma Sting Operation: The Virat Kohli vs BCCI spat was much talked about in late 2021. Ahead of the 2021 T20 World Cup, Kohli announced that he will resign as the T20I captain post the showpiece event in the UAE. After the T20 WC, India was set to tour South Africa -- for three Tests and ODIs each -- when the Chetan Sharma-led BCCI selection committee sacked Kohli as the ODI captain.</p>

<p>This led to a huge debate, with many feeling Kohli was not treated properly. While Kohli presented his side of the story, that he was not informed well in advance about his sacking and was still eager to lead in the longer formats, his press conference with the reporters wasn't well received by the then Sourav Ganguly-led BCCI. Ganguly, the then BCCI chief, had revealed that he had insisted Kohli reconsider his decision of quitting as T20I captain; something which was denied by Kohli. Thus, this led to Kohli vs Ganguly spat.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>'It became player against BCCI'</strong></p>

<p>In an exclusive sting operation carried out by Zee Media, BCCI chief selector Chetan Sharma has now&nbsp;opened up extensively on this and made a big claim. The BCCI chief selector made it clear that Ganguly had asked Kohli to not quit as T20I captain in a video conference but the latter probably didn't listen or know about it. The former Indian cricketer added that 'Kohli tried to defame Ganguly in the media' during his press conference (by deliberately speaking about the change in captaincy) ahead of the SA tour as he&nbsp;felt it was the former Indian skipper&nbsp;behind his ODI captaincy sacking.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-r-ashwin-names-indias-star-batters-who-are-not-celebrated-enough-561883">IND vs AUS: R Ashwin names India's star batters who are 'not celebrated enough'</a></strong></p>

<p>Further, Chetan revealed that it was only a 'natural transition' and even he spoke to Kohli that the selectors wanted only one captain in white-ball formats. However, he feels the Indian star batter didn't take the change in the right way. In addition, he opined that the press conference changed the equation between Kohli and Ganguly. The former player made it clear that the former BCCI chief wasn't inclined towards Rohit Sharma as such but wasn't simply in favour of Kohli.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Not only this, but Chetan also dropped bombshells regarding India's fitness test in the sting operation.</p>

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Chetan Sharma Sting Operation: The Virat Kohli vs BCCI spat was much talked about in late 2021. Ahead of the 2021 T20 World Cup, Kohli announced that he will resign as the T20I captain post the showpiece event in the UAE.

Chetan Sharma Sting Operation: The Virat Kohli vs BCCI spat was much talked about in late 2021. Ahead of the 2021 T20 World Cup, Kohli announced that he will resign as the T20I captain post the showpiece event in the UAE. After the T20 WC, India was set to tour South Africa -- for three Tests and ODIs each -- when the Chetan Sharma-led BCCI selection committee sacked Kohli as the ODI captain. This led to a huge debate, with many feeling Kohli was not treated properly. While Kohli presented his side of the story, that he was not informed well in advance about his sacking and was still eager to lead in the longer formats, his press conference with the reporters wasn't well received by the then Sourav Ganguly-led BCCI. Ganguly, the then BCCI chief, had revealed that he had insisted Kohli reconsider his decision of quitting as T20I captain; something which was denied by Kohli. Thus, this led to Kohli vs Ganguly spat. 'It became player against BCCI' In an exclusive sting operation carried out by Zee Media, BCCI chief selector Chetan Sharma has now opened up extensively on this and made a big claim. The BCCI chief selector made it clear that Ganguly had asked Kohli to not quit as T20I captain in a video conference but the latter probably didn't listen or know about it. The former Indian cricketer added that 'Kohli tried to defame Ganguly in the media' during his press conference (by deliberately speaking about the change in captaincy) ahead of the SA tour as he felt it was the former Indian skipper behind his ODI captaincy sacking. Also Read: IND vs AUS: R Ashwin names India's star batters who are 'not celebrated enough' Further, Chetan revealed that it was only a 'natural transition' and even he spoke to Kohli that the selectors wanted only one captain in white-ball formats. However, he feels the Indian star batter didn't take the change in the right way. In addition, he opined that the press conference changed the equation between Kohli and Ganguly. The former player made it clear that the former BCCI chief wasn't inclined towards Rohit Sharma as such but wasn't simply in favour of Kohli. Not only this, but Chetan also dropped bombshells regarding India's fitness test in the sting operation. ×

Chetan Sharma quits as BCCI chief selector: What he said on Kohli vs Ganguly in Zee sting operation

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