India's 15-member squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup was announced on Monday evening (September 12). While there were some notable omissions, a lot of mainstays were included. The Rohit Sharma-led Indian squad is a good mix of youth and experience and are serious title-contenders if they play to their potential in the forthcoming showpiece event in Australia.

After the squad announcement, many former cricketers and experts of the game shared their take on the team list shared by the BCCI. In this regard, T20 World Cup medallist Robin Uthappa also opined on the squad and pointed out just one issue which the Rohit-Rahul Dravid-led team management need to address.&nbsp;

"[Yuzvendra] Chahal, Axar [Patel], and Ashwin are all intelligent, shrewd, and wicket-taking bowlers. Their intent will be to always look for wickets. The top four looks extremely formidable, the lower-middle order looks solid as well, they just have to find clarity over that No. 5 spot," Uthappa was quoted as saying by ESPNCricinfo. "That would be between Rishabh Pant and Deepak Hooda,"he further asserted.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-can-always-crib-about-but-sunil-gavaskar-reacts-as-bcci-names-indias-final-squad-for-t20-world-cup-515677">'We can always crib but...: Sunil Gavaskar reacts as BCCI names India's final squad for T20 World Cup</a>

"I think it is important to have a left-arm fast bowler, and they have that in Arshdeep Singh and he will be very effective in the death overs. Bhuvi has shown what he can do and I think he will be effective in Australia as well. I am feeling very confident about the fast bowling lineup, the bowling is in a good state, the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) opener went onto add.

Uthappa, a member of the MS Dhoni-led team who won the inaugural T20 WC title in 2007, is confident of the Men in Blue's chances but Rohit &amp; Co. will like to make the most of their leftover matches ahead of the mega event Down Under. After a disappointing run in the Asia Cup, India will host Australia in three T20Is and South Africa in three T20Is and ODIs, each, before boarding the flight to Australia.

Will India address the No. 5 issue, as pointed out by Uthappa, in their remaining fixtures? Time will tell...

India's final 15-man squad for T20 World Cup 2022:

Rohit Sharma (C), KL Rahul (VC), Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Deepak Hooda, Rishabh Pant (WK), Dinesh Karthik (WK), Hardik Pandya, R&nbsp;Ashwin, Yuzvendra&nbsp;Chahal, Axar Patel, Jasprit Bumrah, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Harshal Patel, Arshdeep Singh

Standby players -&nbsp;Mohammed&nbsp;Shami, Shreyas Iyer, Ravi Bishnoi, Deepak Chahar

India's 15-member squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup was announced on Monday evening (September 12). While there were some notable omissions, a lot of mainstays were included.

India's 15-member squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup was announced on Monday evening (September 12). While there were some notable omissions, a lot of mainstays were included. The Rohit Sharma-led Indian squad is a good mix of youth and experience and are serious title-contenders if they play to their potential in the forthcoming showpiece event in Australia. After the squad announcement, many former cricketers and experts of the game shared their take on the team list shared by the BCCI. In this regard, T20 World Cup medallist Robin Uthappa also opined on the squad and pointed out just one issue which the Rohit-Rahul Dravid-led team management need to address. "[Yuzvendra] Chahal, Axar [Patel], and Ashwin are all intelligent, shrewd, and wicket-taking bowlers. Their intent will be to always look for wickets. The top four looks extremely formidable, the lower-middle order looks solid as well, they just have to find clarity over that No. 5 spot," Uthappa was quoted as saying by ESPNCricinfo. "That would be between Rishabh Pant and Deepak Hooda,"he further asserted. ALSO READ | 'We can always crib but...: Sunil Gavaskar reacts as BCCI names India's final squad for T20 World Cup "I think it is important to have a left-arm fast bowler, and they have that in Arshdeep Singh and he will be very effective in the death overs. Bhuvi has shown what he can do and I think he will be effective in Australia as well. I am feeling very confident about the fast bowling lineup, the bowling is in a good state, the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) opener went onto add. Uthappa, a member of the MS Dhoni-led team who won the inaugural T20 WC title in 2007, is confident of the Men in Blue's chances but Rohit & Co. will like to make the most of their leftover matches ahead of the mega event Down Under. After a disappointing run in the Asia Cup, India will host Australia in three T20Is and South Africa in three T20Is and ODIs, each, before boarding the flight to Australia. Will India address the No. 5 issue, as pointed out by Uthappa, in their remaining fixtures? Time will tell... India's final 15-man squad for T20 World Cup 2022: Rohit Sharma (C), KL Rahul (VC), Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Deepak Hooda, Rishabh Pant (WK), Dinesh Karthik (WK), Hardik Pandya, R Ashwin, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Jasprit Bumrah, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Harshal Patel, Arshdeep Singh Standby players - Mohammed Shami, Shreyas Iyer, Ravi Bishnoi, Deepak Chahar

'Have to find clarity over...': Uthappa gives thumbs up to India's T20 WC squad, points out one issue

India's final squad for the T20 World Cup was announced by the BCCI selection committee on Monday (September 12). A strong team, led by Rohit Sharma, has been named as the Men in Blue ardent fans are expecting fireworks from the national side in the upcoming ICC event, to be held in Australia from October-November. The squad comprises a good mix of youth and experience whereas there are a few notable omissions.&nbsp;

While there are always varied reactions on squad selections, the former Indian opener-turned-commentator Sunil Gavaskar has advised one and all to back the Rohit-led side for the showpiece event Down Under.&nbsp;Speaking to&nbsp;India Today, Gavaskar said, "This looks a very good team. With Jasprit Bumrah and Harshal Patel coming in, it looks like India will be able to defend their totals. India have had problems in trying to defend totals. These two stalwarts coming in will certainly give the edge to India when defending totals."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-t20-wc-squad-dravid-rohit-favoured-r-ashwin-over-md-shami-during-selection-meeting-report-515661">India's T20 WC squad: Dravid-Rohit favoured R Ashwin over Md Shami during selection meeting - Report</a>

He further asserted, "Deepak Chahar is one name that stands out, but they have also retained Arshdeep Singh, who gives a left-arm option in the attack. Like I said, it's a good selection. We can always crib about this thing and that thing. But now the selection is done, this is India's team. So let's not ask why not this, why not that? We should back this team 100 per cent. Now that the selection is done, it's our team, back them 100 per cent."

In the main squad, the likes of Rohit, KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya and Dinesh Karthik have been named whereas the likes of Deepak Hooda, Axar Patel and Arshdeep Singh have also made the cut. Senior bowlers R Ashwin, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Yuzvendra Chahal and Jasprit Bumrah have been added whereas Harshal Patel also found a spot. Among the reserves, India have kept more bowling options by including Md Shami, Deepak Chahar and Ravi Bishnoi whereas Shreyas Iyer is a backup batter.

India will kick off their campaign versus arch-rivals Pakistan, on October 23 at the MCG, Melbourne, as they are placed in Pool B along with the Men in Green, South Africa, Bangladesh and two more teams will join both groups from the qualifiers.

India's final 15-man squad for T20 World Cup 2022:

Rohit Sharma (C), KL Rahul (VC), Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Deepak Hooda, Rishabh Pant (WK), Dinesh Karthik (WK), Hardik Pandya, R&nbsp;Ashwin, Yuzvendra&nbsp;Chahal, Axar Patel, Jasprit Bumrah, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Harshal Patel, Arshdeep Singh

Standby players -&nbsp;Mohammed&nbsp;Shami, Shreyas Iyer, Ravi Bishnoi, Deepak Chahar

India's final squad for the T20 World Cup was announced by the BCCI selection committee on Monday (September 12). A strong team, led by Rohit Sharma, has been named as the Men in Blue ardent fans are expecting fireworks from the national side in the upcoming ICC event, to be held in Australia from October-November.

India's final squad for the T20 World Cup was announced by the BCCI selection committee on Monday (September 12). A strong team, led by Rohit Sharma, has been named as the Men in Blue ardent fans are expecting fireworks from the national side in the upcoming ICC event, to be held in Australia from October-November. The squad comprises a good mix of youth and experience whereas there are a few notable omissions. While there are always varied reactions on squad selections, the former Indian opener-turned-commentator Sunil Gavaskar has advised one and all to back the Rohit-led side for the showpiece event Down Under. Speaking to India Today, Gavaskar said, "This looks a very good team. With Jasprit Bumrah and Harshal Patel coming in, it looks like India will be able to defend their totals. India have had problems in trying to defend totals. These two stalwarts coming in will certainly give the edge to India when defending totals." ALSO READ | India's T20 WC squad: Dravid-Rohit favoured R Ashwin over Md Shami during selection meeting - Report He further asserted, "Deepak Chahar is one name that stands out, but they have also retained Arshdeep Singh, who gives a left-arm option in the attack. Like I said, it's a good selection. We can always crib about this thing and that thing. But now the selection is done, this is India's team. So let's not ask why not this, why not that? We should back this team 100 per cent. Now that the selection is done, it's our team, back them 100 per cent." In the main squad, the likes of Rohit, KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya and Dinesh Karthik have been named whereas the likes of Deepak Hooda, Axar Patel and Arshdeep Singh have also made the cut. Senior bowlers R Ashwin, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Yuzvendra Chahal and Jasprit Bumrah have been added whereas Harshal Patel also found a spot. Among the reserves, India have kept more bowling options by including Md Shami, Deepak Chahar and Ravi Bishnoi whereas Shreyas Iyer is a backup batter. India will kick off their campaign versus arch-rivals Pakistan, on October 23 at the MCG, Melbourne, as they are placed in Pool B along with the Men in Green, South Africa, Bangladesh and two more teams will join both groups from the qualifiers. India's final 15-man squad for T20 World Cup 2022: Rohit Sharma (C), KL Rahul (VC), Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Deepak Hooda, Rishabh Pant (WK), Dinesh Karthik (WK), Hardik Pandya, R Ashwin, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Jasprit Bumrah, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Harshal Patel, Arshdeep Singh Standby players - Mohammed Shami, Shreyas Iyer, Ravi Bishnoi, Deepak Chahar

'We can always crib but...: Sunil Gavaskar reacts as BCCI names India's final squad for T20 World Cup

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is likely to announce India's 15-man squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022 on Monday (September 12). The selectors face some major selection headaches after India's disappointing campaign in the recently-concluded Asia Cup 2022 where they were dumped out of the competition from the Super Four stage.

As per a report in the Times of India, there will be an online meeting of the BCCI selection panel on Monday afternoon where the squad for the T20 World Cup will be picked and announced later in the day. Head coach Rahul Dravid and captain Rohit Sharma are also expected to be part of the meeting.

Star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, who recently underwent knee surgery is unlikely to be picked as he will remain out of action for a few months. Jadeja was ruled out midway through India's Asia Cup campaign after aggravating his knee injury during training.&nbsp;

However, in what comes as a major boost for the Indian team ahead of the T20 World Cup in Australia next month, fast bowlers Jasprit Bumrah and Harshal Patel have recovered well and are available for selection. The duo had missed the Asia Cup dues to respective injuries and their absence was dearly felt by the Indian team.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/what-went-wrong-for-rohit-sharma-led-india-in-asia-cup-2022-514965">What went wrong for Rohit Sharma-led India in Asia Cup 2022?</a>

While Bumrah and Harshal are expected to make the cut, veteran pacer Mohammed Shami also remains in contention. Shami has not been in India's T20I plans for a while now but he remains in contention as the selectors might look at fresh changes in the pace attack after a disappointing show from the fast bowlers in the Asia Cup.

Avesh Khan, who was part of India's squad in the Asia Cup, failed to impress and might make way for Shami. However, the likes of Deepak Chahar and Umran Malik are also among major contenders for a spot in the final 15 alongside Bumrah, Harshal, Bhuvneshwar Kumar and left-arm seamer Arshdeep Singh.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shocking-ramiz-loses-cool-at-indian-reporter-on-being-asked-about-pakistans-asia-cup-final-loss-watch-515318">Shocking! Ramiz loses cool at Indian reporter on being asked about Pakistan's Asia Cup final loss - Watch</a>

India's middle-order to looked unsettled&nbsp;in Jajdeja's absence during the Asia Cup and it remains to be seen if the likes of Sanju Samson or Shreyas Iyer will be included in the squad to add depth to India's batting. The selectors will also have to take a call whether they want to pick Dinesh Karthik as a specialist finisher or first-choice wicket-keeper batter ahead of Rishabh Pant.

Both Suryakumar Yadav and Deepak Hooda are expected to keep their spots along with the top three of skipper Rohit, KL Rahul and Virat Kohli, who rediscovered his form in the Asia Cup with some splendid performances.

India's predicted squad for T20 World Cup 2022:

Rohit Sharma (c), KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Deepak Hooda, Hardik Pandya, Rishabh Pant/Dinesh Karthik, Axar Patel, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah, Ravi Bishnoi/R Ashwin, Yuzvendra Chahal, Harshal Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Sanju Samson/Shreyas Iyer

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is likely to announce India's 15-man squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022 on Monday (September 12). The selectors face some major selection headaches after India's disappointing campaign in the recently-concluded Asia Cup 2022 where they were dumped out of the competition from the Super Four stage.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is likely to announce India's 15-man squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022 on Monday (September 12). The selectors face some major selection headaches after India's disappointing campaign in the recently-concluded Asia Cup 2022 where they were dumped out of the competition from the Super Four stage. As per a report in the Times of India, there will be an online meeting of the BCCI selection panel on Monday afternoon where the squad for the T20 World Cup will be picked and announced later in the day. Head coach Rahul Dravid and captain Rohit Sharma are also expected to be part of the meeting. Star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, who recently underwent knee surgery is unlikely to be picked as he will remain out of action for a few months. Jadeja was ruled out midway through India's Asia Cup campaign after aggravating his knee injury during training. However, in what comes as a major boost for the Indian team ahead of the T20 World Cup in Australia next month, fast bowlers Jasprit Bumrah and Harshal Patel have recovered well and are available for selection. The duo had missed the Asia Cup dues to respective injuries and their absence was dearly felt by the Indian team. Also Read: What went wrong for Rohit Sharma-led India in Asia Cup 2022? While Bumrah and Harshal are expected to make the cut, veteran pacer Mohammed Shami also remains in contention. Shami has not been in India's T20I plans for a while now but he remains in contention as the selectors might look at fresh changes in the pace attack after a disappointing show from the fast bowlers in the Asia Cup. Avesh Khan, who was part of India's squad in the Asia Cup, failed to impress and might make way for Shami. However, the likes of Deepak Chahar and Umran Malik are also among major contenders for a spot in the final 15 alongside Bumrah, Harshal, Bhuvneshwar Kumar and left-arm seamer Arshdeep Singh. Also Read: Shocking! Ramiz loses cool at Indian reporter on being asked about Pakistan's Asia Cup final loss - Watch India's middle-order to looked unsettled in Jajdeja's absence during the Asia Cup and it remains to be seen if the likes of Sanju Samson or Shreyas Iyer will be included in the squad to add depth to India's batting. The selectors will also have to take a call whether they want to pick Dinesh Karthik as a specialist finisher or first-choice wicket-keeper batter ahead of Rishabh Pant. Both Suryakumar Yadav and Deepak Hooda are expected to keep their spots along with the top three of skipper Rohit, KL Rahul and Virat Kohli, who rediscovered his form in the Asia Cup with some splendid performances. India's predicted squad for T20 World Cup 2022: Rohit Sharma (c), KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Deepak Hooda, Hardik Pandya, Rishabh Pant/Dinesh Karthik, Axar Patel, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah, Ravi Bishnoi/R Ashwin, Yuzvendra Chahal, Harshal Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Sanju Samson/Shreyas Iyer

India's T20 World Cup squad: Will Mohammed Shami be included? Bumrah and Harshal set to return

Although Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja put on an inspiring performance in the Asia Cup, it seems like their future in the shortest format of the game may be in jeopardy.

While in conversation with IndsideSport, a&nbsp;BCCI official has reportedly opened up about the onset of a transition period in the aftermath of the forthcoming ICC Men's T20I World Cup.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sri-lanka-cannot-be-taken-easy-wasim-akram-picks-his-favourites-ahead-of-asia-cup-2022-final-515136" hreflang="en">'Sri Lanka cannot be taken easy': Wasim Akram picks his favourites ahead of Asia Cup 2022 final</a>

The senior official revealed that should everything go according to the BCCI's plan, Kohli and Jadeja may be asked to step down from their T20I roles so that they can be preserved for longer formats.&nbsp;

"See, it’s nothing new. After every big event, there is a transition period. After last year’s World Cup, Shami was transitioned to focus on the two formats. Virat isn’t getting any younger. With the number of matches we play, he has to be managed as well.

"And we feel there needs to be a change. For Jadeja, the sheer number of injuries is a concern. We will discuss the transition plans after the World Cup."

Although Kohli would prefer to compete freely across formats, it is important to note that it is impractical to compete consistently at the highest level with the amount of cricket that is being played.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-is-close-to-my-heart-pakistan-head-coach-saqlain-mushtaq-on-kohli-vs-babar-debate-515145" hreflang="en">Virat is close to my heart: Pakistan head coach Saqlain Mushtaq on Kohli vs Babar debate</a>

With India hosting the&nbsp;ODI World Cup in 2023, the shortest format of the game in the country will be put on the back burner after the ICC T20 World Cup.

Owing to these circumstances, the&nbsp;decision of stepping away from the format could be made relatively easy for the likes of Kohli and Jadeja, making the transition period for both the players and the team much more manageable.&nbsp;

Although Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja put on an inspiring performance in the Asia Cup, it seems like their future in the shortest format of the game may be in jeopardy.

Although Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja put on an inspiring performance in the Asia Cup, it seems like their future in the shortest format of the game may be in jeopardy. While in conversation with IndsideSport, a BCCI official has reportedly opened up about the onset of a transition period in the aftermath of the forthcoming ICC Men's T20I World Cup. ALSO READ: 'Sri Lanka cannot be taken easy': Wasim Akram picks his favourites ahead of Asia Cup 2022 final The senior official revealed that should everything go according to the BCCI's plan, Kohli and Jadeja may be asked to step down from their T20I roles so that they can be preserved for longer formats. "See, it’s nothing new. After every big event, there is a transition period. After last year’s World Cup, Shami was transitioned to focus on the two formats. Virat isn’t getting any younger. With the number of matches we play, he has to be managed as well. "And we feel there needs to be a change. For Jadeja, the sheer number of injuries is a concern. We will discuss the transition plans after the World Cup." Although Kohli would prefer to compete freely across formats, it is important to note that it is impractical to compete consistently at the highest level with the amount of cricket that is being played. ALSO READ: Virat is close to my heart: Pakistan head coach Saqlain Mushtaq on Kohli vs Babar debate With India hosting the ODI World Cup in 2023, the shortest format of the game in the country will be put on the back burner after the ICC T20 World Cup. Owing to these circumstances, the decision of stepping away from the format could be made relatively easy for the likes of Kohli and Jadeja, making the transition period for both the players and the team much more manageable.

BCCI official admits Virat Kohli’s spot in India's T20I squad not confirmed after World Cup

India head coach Rahul Dravid has been on the receiving end of strong criticism after his team's disappointing exit from the ongoing Asia Cup 2022. Defending champions India were dumped out after back-to-back defeats&nbsp;against Pakistan and Sri Lanka in their first two Super Four clashes.

They went on to register a big win in the dead-rubber against Afghanistan in the final encounter but that was not enough to paper over the cracks that emerged in&nbsp;the team's campaign in the Asia Cup. India's exit from the tournament has served as a wake up call for the team ahead of the T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia this year.

Former India selector Saba Karim believes it is 'crunch time' for Dravid as the honeymoon period is over for him now as the head coach of the Indian team. With the T20 World Cup this year and the ODI World Cup next year, nothing less than the title will be treated as success for Dravid and his support staff.

"Well, even Rahul Dravid is aware that the honeymoon period is over, and he is trying his best to be an alchemist but so far, such metals haven't been converted into core. One would expect him to do that. This is crunch time for Rahul Dravid," Saba Karim said on Sports18.

"With the World Cup T20 coming up, next year the ODI World Cup coming up. These two big ICC events, if India can win both these championships then only Rahul Dravid will be satisfied with the kind of inputs he has given to team India," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/unhappy-bcci-admonish-ravindra-jadeja-for-irresponsibility-towards-fitness-and-health-ahead-of-world-cup-514738">'Unhappy' BCCI admonish&nbsp;Jadeja for irresponsibility towards fitness and health ahead of World Cup</a>

Dravid was appointed as the head coach of the Indian team after Ravi Shastri's exit last year and the expectations were high from the legend. India have enjoyed great success under him as far as bilateral series are concerned, however, the team failed to deliver in their first major ICC tournament under him.

Karim, who played 34 ODIs and one Test for India, believes Dravid would love to swap the bilateral series wins with the one-off Test that India lost against England or the Test series that India lost against South Africa, however, that is the kind of challenges he faces as the head coach of the team.

"If given an option Rahul Dravid would love to have those Test series win in South Africa and the last Test match in England. He would love to swap that with so many bilateral wins that India has got under his belt. But that's the nature of the challenges which Rahul Dravid has to face," said Karim.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/viral-elderly-fan-bows-down-to-virat-kohli-as-he-slams-71st-intl-ton-in-india-afghanistan-tie-watch-514611">VIRAL: Elderly fan bows down to Virat Kohli as he slams 71st int'l ton in India-Afghanistan tie - WATCH</a>

"See Rahul is sensible and intelligent enough to understand that the only way he can define a successful tenure of his coaching career is if India - number one, wins ICC events and number two it starts to win Test series in SENA countries. I'm not talking about Test wins. Test wins even while Rahul Dravid was playing, India has done that. But more importantly, when India starts to win in SENA countries, the Test series, that's when Rahul Dravid will be very happy with team India's performance," he explained.

India head coach Rahul Dravid has been on the receiving end of strong criticism after his team's disappointing exit from the ongoing Asia Cup 2022. Defending champions India were dumped out after back-to-back defeats against Pakistan and Sri Lanka in their first two Super Four clashes.

India head coach Rahul Dravid has been on the receiving end of strong criticism after his team's disappointing exit from the ongoing Asia Cup 2022. Defending champions India were dumped out after back-to-back defeats against Pakistan and Sri Lanka in their first two Super Four clashes. They went on to register a big win in the dead-rubber against Afghanistan in the final encounter but that was not enough to paper over the cracks that emerged in the team's campaign in the Asia Cup. India's exit from the tournament has served as a wake up call for the team ahead of the T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia this year. Former India selector Saba Karim believes it is 'crunch time' for Dravid as the honeymoon period is over for him now as the head coach of the Indian team. With the T20 World Cup this year and the ODI World Cup next year, nothing less than the title will be treated as success for Dravid and his support staff. "Well, even Rahul Dravid is aware that the honeymoon period is over, and he is trying his best to be an alchemist but so far, such metals haven't been converted into core. One would expect him to do that. This is crunch time for Rahul Dravid," Saba Karim said on Sports18. "With the World Cup T20 coming up, next year the ODI World Cup coming up. These two big ICC events, if India can win both these championships then only Rahul Dravid will be satisfied with the kind of inputs he has given to team India," he added. Also Read: 'Unhappy' BCCI admonish Jadeja for irresponsibility towards fitness and health ahead of World Cup Dravid was appointed as the head coach of the Indian team after Ravi Shastri's exit last year and the expectations were high from the legend. India have enjoyed great success under him as far as bilateral series are concerned, however, the team failed to deliver in their first major ICC tournament under him. Karim, who played 34 ODIs and one Test for India, believes Dravid would love to swap the bilateral series wins with the one-off Test that India lost against England or the Test series that India lost against South Africa, however, that is the kind of challenges he faces as the head coach of the team. "If given an option Rahul Dravid would love to have those Test series win in South Africa and the last Test match in England. He would love to swap that with so many bilateral wins that India has got under his belt. But that's the nature of the challenges which Rahul Dravid has to face," said Karim. Also Read: VIRAL: Elderly fan bows down to Virat Kohli as he slams 71st int'l ton in India-Afghanistan tie - WATCH "See Rahul is sensible and intelligent enough to understand that the only way he can define a successful tenure of his coaching career is if India - number one, wins ICC events and number two it starts to win Test series in SENA countries. I'm not talking about Test wins. Test wins even while Rahul Dravid was playing, India has done that. But more importantly, when India starts to win in SENA countries, the Test series, that's when Rahul Dravid will be very happy with team India's performance," he explained.

This is crunch time for Rahul Dravid: Ex-BCCI selector after India's disappointing exit from Asia Cup 2022

Star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja`s knee injury has disturbed the team combination and the Board of Control for Cricket in India big time and the BCCI is not happy about it.

"We are not happy with Jadeja`s injury. He should have kept the world cup in mind while doing adventurous activities. But he was not responsible and did not think that the World Cup is on the way. We are not happy with this action of Jadeja," a source to ANI.

Jadeja had injured his right knee and was ruled out of Asia Cup 2022 after playing the first two games of the event against Pakistan and Hong Kong. Earlier on Tuesday, it was revealed that&nbsp;Jadeja's knee surgery was successful and the all-rounder will start rehabilitation soon.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-world-cup-winning-captains-ms-dhoni-and-kapil-dev-attend-us-open-qfs-video-goes-viral-watch-514687" hreflang="en">India's World Cup-winning captains MS Dhoni and Kapil Dev attend US Open QFs, video goes viral - WATCH</a>

Jadeja took to Instagram on Tuesday to offer fans some insight into the same. "The surgery was successful. There are many people to thank for their support and involvement - BCCI, my teammates, support staff, physios, doctors and the fans.

"I will start my rehab soon and try to get back to soon as I can. Thank you to everyone for your kind wishes," said Jadeja in a post.

Jadeja was having a solid Asia Cup 2022 till he got injured. In the first match against Pakistan, he played a match-winning knock of 35 and registered figures of 0/11 in two overs. In the next match against Hong Kong, he did not bat but took 1/15 with the ball and fielded really well.

The star all-rounder is having a good 2022 so far, both with bat and ball. In nine T20Is this year, Jadeja has scored 201 runs in eight innings at an average of 50.25. His best individual score is 46* this year in the format. Besides this, he has taken five wickets, with best figures of 1/15.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-2022-pathum-nissanka-leads-sri-lankas-impressive-chase-beating-pakistan-by-five-wickets-514726" hreflang="en">Asia Cup 2022: Pathum Nissanka leads Sri Lanka's impressive chase beating Pakistan by five wickets</a>

In three Tests this year, he has scored 328 runs in five innings at an average of 82.00. He has smashed two centuries in the longer format of the sport this year. His best score is 175* which he scored against Sri Lanka earlier this year. He has also taken 10 wickets in this format with best figures of 5/41.

In three ODIs this year, he has scored 36 runs in two innings at an average of 36.00. His best score in format this year is 29. He has also taken a wicket in the format this year.

Earlier on Saturday before India`s Super Four clash with Pakistan, Indian head coach Rahul Dravid had announced that Jadeja sustained an injury in his knee and as a result, was ruled out of the Asia Cup 2022. Axar Patel, another bowling all-rounder was announced as his replacement.

Star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja`s knee injury has disturbed the team combination and the Board of Control for Cricket in India big time and the BCCI is not happy about it.

Star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja`s knee injury has disturbed the team combination and the Board of Control for Cricket in India big time and the BCCI is not happy about it. "We are not happy with Jadeja`s injury. He should have kept the world cup in mind while doing adventurous activities. But he was not responsible and did not think that the World Cup is on the way. We are not happy with this action of Jadeja," a source to ANI. Jadeja had injured his right knee and was ruled out of Asia Cup 2022 after playing the first two games of the event against Pakistan and Hong Kong. Earlier on Tuesday, it was revealed that Jadeja's knee surgery was successful and the all-rounder will start rehabilitation soon. ALSO READ: India's World Cup-winning captains MS Dhoni and Kapil Dev attend US Open QFs, video goes viral - WATCH Jadeja took to Instagram on Tuesday to offer fans some insight into the same. "The surgery was successful. There are many people to thank for their support and involvement - BCCI, my teammates, support staff, physios, doctors and the fans. "I will start my rehab soon and try to get back to soon as I can. Thank you to everyone for your kind wishes," said Jadeja in a post. Jadeja was having a solid Asia Cup 2022 till he got injured. In the first match against Pakistan, he played a match-winning knock of 35 and registered figures of 0/11 in two overs. In the next match against Hong Kong, he did not bat but took 1/15 with the ball and fielded really well. The star all-rounder is having a good 2022 so far, both with bat and ball. In nine T20Is this year, Jadeja has scored 201 runs in eight innings at an average of 50.25. His best individual score is 46* this year in the format. Besides this, he has taken five wickets, with best figures of 1/15. ALSO READ: Asia Cup 2022: Pathum Nissanka leads Sri Lanka's impressive chase beating Pakistan by five wickets In three Tests this year, he has scored 328 runs in five innings at an average of 82.00. He has smashed two centuries in the longer format of the sport this year. His best score is 175* which he scored against Sri Lanka earlier this year. He has also taken 10 wickets in this format with best figures of 5/41. In three ODIs this year, he has scored 36 runs in two innings at an average of 36.00. His best score in format this year is 29. He has also taken a wicket in the format this year. Earlier on Saturday before India`s Super Four clash with Pakistan, Indian head coach Rahul Dravid had announced that Jadeja sustained an injury in his knee and as a result, was ruled out of the Asia Cup 2022. Axar Patel, another bowling all-rounder was announced as his replacement.

'Unhappy' BCCI admonish Ravindra Jadeja for irresponsibility towards fitness and health ahead of World Cup

India ended their Asia Cup 2022 campaign with a big win over Afghanistan on Thursday evening (September 8). The biggest takeaway from India's consolation win was Virat Kohli's much-awaited 71st international century as the former skipper slammed a mouth-watering 61-ball 122 not out, laced with 12 fours and 6 sixes at a whopping strike-rate of 200.

Kohli hadn't scored a century across formats since late 2019. Since then, he contributed with a lot of crucial knocks but failed to get to the triple-figure mark. Against Afghanistan, India's star batter Virat went all-out, after settling in, as he opened the innings with stand-in captain KL Rahul in Rohit Sharma's absence. With his ton, the whole of India breathed a sigh of relief despite the national side's forgettable Asia Cup campaign. Rohit &amp; Co. will now hope for Kohli to continue in a similar stead and go bonkers in the T20 World Cup 2022 edition, from October-November in Australia.

After mauling Afghanistan, Indian captain Rohit and Virat got together for a special interaction, on BCCI tv, where Hitman told his predecessor that his 'form is very critical to Team India'.&nbsp;

When Rohit asked about his brilliant ton, Kohli said,&nbsp;&nbsp;"I did not expect this. Even you mentioned after the match that nobody would have expected me to score a century, especially in this format. I am pleasantly surprised and I am grateful and honoured right now." Later in the chat, Rohit told, "Your form is very critical to our team. We all understand that. And also, you being around certain guys, does help a lot as well."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-led-team-indias-t20-world-cup-squad-likely-to-be-announced-on-september-16-report-514475">Rohit Sharma-led Team India's T20 World Cup squad likely to be announced on September 16: Report</a>

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What happens when <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRo45?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImRo45</a> interviews <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> ☺️ 👏 
 
Laughs, mutual admiration &amp; a lot of respect 😎- by <a href="https://twitter.com/ameyatilak?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ameyatilak</a> 
 
Full interview 📽️<a href="https://t.co/8bVUaa0pUw">https://t.co/8bVUaa0pUw</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AsiaCup2022?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AsiaCup2022</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAFG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAFG</a> <a href="https://t.co/GkdPr9crLh">pic.twitter.com/GkdPr9crLh</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1568097031281065985?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 9, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/because-we-lost-few-games-doesnt-mean-were-a-terrible-team-rahul-dravid-defends-under-fire-team-india-514502">'Because we lost few games, doesn't mean we're a terrible team'- Rahul Dravid defends under-fire Team India</a>

Kohli further highlighted the team goal and added, "It was a very special day for us as a team. After the last game, we had spoken about the kind of attitude with which we need to play this match. This was an important tournament for us. We got the exposure of knockout matches, we got the exposure of facing pressure situations. But we know what's our main goal, which is the World Cup in Australia and we all are improving in several areas for the same. We will learn from our mistakes from the matches which didn't go well for us."

India will now shift their focus to hosting Australia and later South Africa, in white-ball series, where they will look to iron out their flaws ahead of the T20 WC Down Under.

India ended their Asia Cup 2022 campaign with a big win over Afghanistan on Thursday evening (September 8). The biggest takeaway from India's consolation win was Virat Kohli's much-awaited 71st international century as the former skipper slammed a mouth-watering 61-ball 122 not out, laced with 12 fours and 6 sixes at a whopping strike-rate of 200.

India ended their Asia Cup 2022 campaign with a big win over Afghanistan on Thursday evening (September 8). The biggest takeaway from India's consolation win was Virat Kohli's much-awaited 71st international century as the former skipper slammed a mouth-watering 61-ball 122 not out, laced with 12 fours and 6 sixes at a whopping strike-rate of 200. Kohli hadn't scored a century across formats since late 2019. Since then, he contributed with a lot of crucial knocks but failed to get to the triple-figure mark. Against Afghanistan, India's star batter Virat went all-out, after settling in, as he opened the innings with stand-in captain KL Rahul in Rohit Sharma's absence. With his ton, the whole of India breathed a sigh of relief despite the national side's forgettable Asia Cup campaign. Rohit & Co. will now hope for Kohli to continue in a similar stead and go bonkers in the T20 World Cup 2022 edition, from October-November in Australia. After mauling Afghanistan, Indian captain Rohit and Virat got together for a special interaction, on BCCI tv, where Hitman told his predecessor that his 'form is very critical to Team India'. When Rohit asked about his brilliant ton, Kohli said, "I did not expect this. Even you mentioned after the match that nobody would have expected me to score a century, especially in this format. I am pleasantly surprised and I am grateful and honoured right now." Later in the chat, Rohit told, "Your form is very critical to our team. We all understand that. And also, you being around certain guys, does help a lot as well." ALSO READ | Rohit Sharma-led Team India's T20 World Cup squad likely to be announced on September 16: Report What happens when @ImRo45 interviews @imVkohli ☺️ 👏 Laughs, mutual admiration & a lot of respect 😎- by @ameyatilak Full interview 📽️https://t.co/8bVUaa0pUw #TeamIndia | #AsiaCup2022 | #INDvAFG pic.twitter.com/GkdPr9crLh — BCCI (@BCCI) September 9, 2022 × ALSO READ | 'Because we lost few games, doesn't mean we're a terrible team'- Rahul Dravid defends under-fire Team India Kohli further highlighted the team goal and added, "It was a very special day for us as a team. After the last game, we had spoken about the kind of attitude with which we need to play this match. This was an important tournament for us. We got the exposure of knockout matches, we got the exposure of facing pressure situations. But we know what's our main goal, which is the World Cup in Australia and we all are improving in several areas for the same. We will learn from our mistakes from the matches which didn't go well for us." India will now shift their focus to hosting Australia and later South Africa, in white-ball series, where they will look to iron out their flaws ahead of the T20 WC Down Under.

'Your form is very critical' - Rohit Sharma tells Virat Kohli as duo interact post latter's 71st int'l ton

After a forgettable run at the Asia Cup, India will look to amend their mistakes ahead of the 2022 T20 World Cup, in Australia from October-November. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is expected to announce the squad for the showpiece event sooner than later as many cricket boards have already announced their respective squads.&nbsp;

As per a report in the Times of India (TOI), the Indian team's squad for the upcoming ICC event is likely to be announced on September 16. Jasprit Bumrah's fitness is reportedly a reason behind the delay in squad announcement as the premier pacer is in rehab at the National Cricket Academy (NCA), Bengaluru after missing out on the Asia Cup due to a back injury. Moreover, Harshal Patel is also working on his fitness after not being part of the Rohit Sharma-led national side in the Asia Cup where the Men in Blue failed to make it to the final.

Thus, Bumrah's fitness is eagerly awaited by the BCCI before announcing the squad of the one-time winners heading into the T20 WC Down Under. With the marquee tournament just over a month away, the BCCI selectors are still not worried about Bumrah's fitness as he is expected to be deemed fit.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-better-option-than-md-shami-irfan-pathan-on-how-india-can-fix-bowling-woes-ahead-of-t20-world-cup-513817">No better option than Md. Shami: Irfan Pathan on how India can fix bowling woes ahead of T20 World Cup</a>

“Bumrah has not been declared fit yet. He is going to be at the NCA this week before the selection. The World Cup is still over a month away. Therefore, his selection will happen considering that,” a BCCI source told TOI. Given India's ordinary bowling performances in the continental tournament, being held in the UAE, India will be desperate to regain the services of both Bumrah and Harshal. Many are also discussing Mohammed Shami's inclusion despite the senior pacer having not played a single T20I since last year's World Cup in the UAE.&nbsp;

Given Shami's experience, good run in IPL 2022 and the the current Indian bowling line-up lagging behind, the 32-year-old might be roped in. After bowing out of the Asia Cup, India will host Australia followed by South Africa in T20I series before boarding the flight to Australia. It will be interesting to see what all changes the Rohit-Rahul Dravid-led Indian team management makes for the mega event.

India had failed to go past the Super 12 round in last year's T20 WC. Will the script change this time around for the Men in Blue? Only time will tell...

After a forgettable run at the Asia Cup, India will look to amend their mistakes ahead of the 2022 T20 World Cup, in Australia from October-November. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is expected to announce the squad for the showpiece event sooner than later as many cricket boards have already announced their respective squads.

After a forgettable run at the Asia Cup, India will look to amend their mistakes ahead of the 2022 T20 World Cup, in Australia from October-November. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is expected to announce the squad for the showpiece event sooner than later as many cricket boards have already announced their respective squads. As per a report in the Times of India (TOI), the Indian team's squad for the upcoming ICC event is likely to be announced on September 16. Jasprit Bumrah's fitness is reportedly a reason behind the delay in squad announcement as the premier pacer is in rehab at the National Cricket Academy (NCA), Bengaluru after missing out on the Asia Cup due to a back injury. Moreover, Harshal Patel is also working on his fitness after not being part of the Rohit Sharma-led national side in the Asia Cup where the Men in Blue failed to make it to the final. Thus, Bumrah's fitness is eagerly awaited by the BCCI before announcing the squad of the one-time winners heading into the T20 WC Down Under. With the marquee tournament just over a month away, the BCCI selectors are still not worried about Bumrah's fitness as he is expected to be deemed fit. ALSO READ | No better option than Md. Shami: Irfan Pathan on how India can fix bowling woes ahead of T20 World Cup “Bumrah has not been declared fit yet. He is going to be at the NCA this week before the selection. The World Cup is still over a month away. Therefore, his selection will happen considering that,” a BCCI source told TOI. Given India's ordinary bowling performances in the continental tournament, being held in the UAE, India will be desperate to regain the services of both Bumrah and Harshal. Many are also discussing Mohammed Shami's inclusion despite the senior pacer having not played a single T20I since last year's World Cup in the UAE. Given Shami's experience, good run in IPL 2022 and the the current Indian bowling line-up lagging behind, the 32-year-old might be roped in. After bowing out of the Asia Cup, India will host Australia followed by South Africa in T20I series before boarding the flight to Australia. It will be interesting to see what all changes the Rohit-Rahul Dravid-led Indian team management makes for the mega event. India had failed to go past the Super 12 round in last year's T20 WC. Will the script change this time around for the Men in Blue? Only time will tell...

Rohit Sharma-led Team India's T20 World Cup squad likely to be announced on September 16: Report

Virat Kohli's recent comments in the post-match press conference after India's five-wicket loss against Pakistan sent social media abuzz. In the presser, Kohli recalled how former India captain MS Dhoni was the only one among those who played with him, to text him after he had left India's Test captaincy earlier this year.

Kohli, who scored his second successive fifty in the Asia Cup against Pakistan on Sunday, spoke about a range of topics during the presser. However, his comments about only Dhoni texting him post his resignation from Test captaincy set social media on fire.

Kohli said many former cricketers who have been criticising him on TV over the last few months, have his phone number but it was only Dhoni who sent him a text.&nbsp;

“I can tell you one thing... when I left Test captaincy, I got a message from only one person, with whom I have played previously - MS Dhoni,” Kohli said in the presser.

“Many people have my number. On TV, lots of people give suggestions, but whoever had my number, no one texted," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/arshdeep-singhs-parents-reveal-what-he-told-them-after-facing-online-abuse-over-dropped-catch-vs-pakistan-513351">Arshdeep Singh's parents reveal what he told them after facing online abuse over dropped catch vs Pakistan</a>

Reacting to his comments, a Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) official has expressed his disappointment and said Kohli had the backing of the board and his teammates when he stepped down as Test captain. The official added that everyone at BCCI wished him on social media.

“Virat has had the backing of everyone. From his teammates to everyone at the BCCI. To say that he did not get the support, is not true. He was granted a break to rejuvenate, he got frequent rest. Even everyone at BCCI wished him on social media when he stepped down from Test captaincy. So, I don’t know what he is talking about,” a senior BCCI official was quoted as saying by InsideSport.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-should-have-named-people-who-didnt-get-in-touch-after-he-quit-test-captaincy-sunil-gavaskar-513380">Virat Kohli should have named people who didn't get in touch after he quit Test captaincy: Sunil Gavaskar</a>

Kohli has looked far calmer and focused in the ongoing Asia Cup 2022 after making his comeback for the Indian team post his short hiatus from cricket. He looks close to rediscovering his form and has so far scored 154 runs in three games, including two fifties in the last two games.

Virat Kohli's recent comments in the post-match press conference after India's five-wicket loss against Pakistan sent social media abuzz. In the presser, Kohli recalled how former India captain MS Dhoni was the only one among those who played with him, to text him after he had left India's Test captaincy earlier this year.

Virat Kohli's recent comments in the post-match press conference after India's five-wicket loss against Pakistan sent social media abuzz. In the presser, Kohli recalled how former India captain MS Dhoni was the only one among those who played with him, to text him after he had left India's Test captaincy earlier this year. Kohli, who scored his second successive fifty in the Asia Cup against Pakistan on Sunday, spoke about a range of topics during the presser. However, his comments about only Dhoni texting him post his resignation from Test captaincy set social media on fire. Kohli said many former cricketers who have been criticising him on TV over the last few months, have his phone number but it was only Dhoni who sent him a text. “I can tell you one thing... when I left Test captaincy, I got a message from only one person, with whom I have played previously - MS Dhoni,” Kohli said in the presser. “Many people have my number. On TV, lots of people give suggestions, but whoever had my number, no one texted," he added. Also Read: Arshdeep Singh's parents reveal what he told them after facing online abuse over dropped catch vs Pakistan Reacting to his comments, a Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) official has expressed his disappointment and said Kohli had the backing of the board and his teammates when he stepped down as Test captain. The official added that everyone at BCCI wished him on social media. “Virat has had the backing of everyone. From his teammates to everyone at the BCCI. To say that he did not get the support, is not true. He was granted a break to rejuvenate, he got frequent rest. Even everyone at BCCI wished him on social media when he stepped down from Test captaincy. So, I don’t know what he is talking about,” a senior BCCI official was quoted as saying by InsideSport. Also Read: Virat Kohli should have named people who didn't get in touch after he quit Test captaincy: Sunil Gavaskar Kohli has looked far calmer and focused in the ongoing Asia Cup 2022 after making his comeback for the Indian team post his short hiatus from cricket. He looks close to rediscovering his form and has so far scored 154 runs in three games, including two fifties in the last two games.

To say Virat Kohli didn't get support is not true: BCCI official on former India skipper's recent comments

Mastercard has replaced Paytm as the new title sponsor of the Indian cricket team for their home matches. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Monday (September 05) confirmed their association with Mastercard welcoming their new sponsor on board.

The development comes after Paytm had reportedly recently asked BCCI to reassign their sponsorship rights. The Indian cricket board got into the act and wasted no time in roping in Mastercard as the new title right holders of Indian cricket as far as the home matches are concerned. Their arrival ended Paytm's 7-year association with Indian cricket.

Mastercard will be the title sponsor of Indian men's and women's cricket teams' matches at home along with all the domestic tournaments ranging from the Ranji Trophy to the Irani Trophy.

"During this association, Mastercard will be the title sponsor for all international matches (both women and men) held on home ground, domestic cricket matches like Irani Trophy, Duleep Trophy, and Ranji Trophy organized by the BCCI as also all junior cricket (Under 19 and Under 23) matches held in India," the BCCI said in a statement.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/explained-how-can-india-still-make-it-to-the-final-of-asia-cup-2022-after-loss-against-pakistan-513113">Explained: How can India still make it to the final of Asia Cup 2022 after loss against Pakistan?</a>

Mastercard is already associated with some of the major global sporting properties across the globe in the form of the UEFA Champions League, French Open and the Australian Open. Being associated with the Indian cricket team will give the&nbsp;global payments &amp; technology company massive exposure among the subcontinent audience.

India are one of the best teams in world cricket at present and have been a force to reckon with in all three formats of the game. Despite not having won a major ICC trophy since 2013, the Men in Blue remain one of the giants of the game and the country's growing influence in the sport cannot be overlooked.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-govt-summons-wikipedia-officials-after-arshdeep-singhs-page-edited-to-show-fake-khalistan-link-513083">Indian govt summons Wikipedia officials after Arshdeep Singh's page edited to show fake Khalistan link</a>

The Indian men's team is currently in action in the ongoing Asia Cup 2022 in the UAE. After bagging back-to-back wins in their first two games in the group stage, India's unbeaten streak in the tournament was snapped by arch-rivals Pakistan in their first Super Four clash on Sunday.

Mastercard has replaced Paytm as the new title sponsor of the Indian cricket team for their home matches. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Monday (September 05) confirmed their association with Mastercard welcoming their new sponsor on board.

Mastercard has replaced Paytm as the new title sponsor of the Indian cricket team for their home matches. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Monday (September 05) confirmed their association with Mastercard welcoming their new sponsor on board. The development comes after Paytm had reportedly recently asked BCCI to reassign their sponsorship rights. The Indian cricket board got into the act and wasted no time in roping in Mastercard as the new title right holders of Indian cricket as far as the home matches are concerned. Their arrival ended Paytm's 7-year association with Indian cricket. Mastercard will be the title sponsor of Indian men's and women's cricket teams' matches at home along with all the domestic tournaments ranging from the Ranji Trophy to the Irani Trophy. "During this association, Mastercard will be the title sponsor for all international matches (both women and men) held on home ground, domestic cricket matches like Irani Trophy, Duleep Trophy, and Ranji Trophy organized by the BCCI as also all junior cricket (Under 19 and Under 23) matches held in India," the BCCI said in a statement. Also Read: Explained: How can India still make it to the final of Asia Cup 2022 after loss against Pakistan? Mastercard is already associated with some of the major global sporting properties across the globe in the form of the UEFA Champions League, French Open and the Australian Open. Being associated with the Indian cricket team will give the global payments & technology company massive exposure among the subcontinent audience. India are one of the best teams in world cricket at present and have been a force to reckon with in all three formats of the game. Despite not having won a major ICC trophy since 2013, the Men in Blue remain one of the giants of the game and the country's growing influence in the sport cannot be overlooked. Also Read: Indian govt summons Wikipedia officials after Arshdeep Singh's page edited to show fake Khalistan link The Indian men's team is currently in action in the ongoing Asia Cup 2022 in the UAE. After bagging back-to-back wins in their first two games in the group stage, India's unbeaten streak in the tournament was snapped by arch-rivals Pakistan in their first Super Four clash on Sunday.

Mastercard replaces Patym as BCCI's title sponsor for India's home matches, domestic tournaments

The&nbsp;Board of Control for Cricket in India recently managed to get their hands on a javelin that was used by Tokyo Olympics champion Neeraj Chopra. The javelin was part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's collection of mementoes.

It was placed on sale in an e-auction that was conducted back in 2021, in a bid to raise money for the&nbsp;'Namami Gange Program', which was launched way back in 2014 and works in tandem with other organisations to clean the Ganga river.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-only-hope-for-japan-open-medal-hs-prannoy-suffers-close-loss-at-the-hands-of-tc-chou-512336" hreflang="en">India's only hope for Japan Open medal HS Prannoy suffers close loss at the hands of TC Chou</a>

Per reports that were released by Press Trust of India, the BCCI placed a winning bid that was worth a whopping Rs. 1.5 crore to ascertain the possession of the valuable javelin.

"BCCI had made the winning bid for Neeraj's javelin. But we also bid for a couple of other collectibles. It (Namami Gange) is a noble cause and the office bearers in BCCI felt that as one of the premier sporting bodies in the country, we had a duty towards the nation," read the report published by the PTI.

What makes the javelin so special is the fact that it was one among multiple javelins that were used by Chopra over the course of his Tokyo Olympics campaign. In addition to the javelin, the BCCI also won possession of an angavastra that had been signed by the entire Paralympic contingent. For the latter, the BCCI parted ways with a shocking Rs. 1 crore.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/huge-blow-for-india-as-ravindra-jadeja-ruled-out-of-asia-cup-2022-axar-patel-named-replacement-512390" hreflang="en">Huge blow for India as Ravindra Jadeja ruled out of Asia Cup 2022, Axar Patel named replacement</a>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi managed to acquire the one-of-a-kind green-coloured Valhalla 800 Hard NXS javelin when Chopra presented the javelin as a present to the PM when the former hosted Indian athletes at his residence after they made their triumphant return from the Tokyo Olympics.

Other collectables sold at the auction in addition to the javelin and the angavastra, were&nbsp;bronze medalist Lovlina Borgohain's boxing gloves,&nbsp;Paralympic champion Sumit Antil's javelin, and fencer Bhavani Devi's sword.&nbsp;

The Board of Control for Cricket in India recently managed to get their hands on a javelin that was used by Tokyo Olympics champion Neeraj Chopra. The javelin was part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's collection of mementoes.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India recently managed to get their hands on a javelin that was used by Tokyo Olympics champion Neeraj Chopra. The javelin was part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's collection of mementoes. It was placed on sale in an e-auction that was conducted back in 2021, in a bid to raise money for the 'Namami Gange Program', which was launched way back in 2014 and works in tandem with other organisations to clean the Ganga river. ALSO READ: India's only hope for Japan Open medal HS Prannoy suffers close loss at the hands of TC Chou Per reports that were released by Press Trust of India, the BCCI placed a winning bid that was worth a whopping Rs. 1.5 crore to ascertain the possession of the valuable javelin. "BCCI had made the winning bid for Neeraj's javelin. But we also bid for a couple of other collectibles. It (Namami Gange) is a noble cause and the office bearers in BCCI felt that as one of the premier sporting bodies in the country, we had a duty towards the nation," read the report published by the PTI. What makes the javelin so special is the fact that it was one among multiple javelins that were used by Chopra over the course of his Tokyo Olympics campaign. In addition to the javelin, the BCCI also won possession of an angavastra that had been signed by the entire Paralympic contingent. For the latter, the BCCI parted ways with a shocking Rs. 1 crore. ALSO READ: Huge blow for India as Ravindra Jadeja ruled out of Asia Cup 2022, Axar Patel named replacement Prime Minister Narendra Modi managed to acquire the one-of-a-kind green-coloured Valhalla 800 Hard NXS javelin when Chopra presented the javelin as a present to the PM when the former hosted Indian athletes at his residence after they made their triumphant return from the Tokyo Olympics. Other collectables sold at the auction in addition to the javelin and the angavastra, were bronze medalist Lovlina Borgohain's boxing gloves, Paralympic champion Sumit Antil's javelin, and fencer Bhavani Devi's sword.

BCCI shell out big bucks to acquire Neeraj Chopra's javelin belonging to Prime Minister Modi's collection

Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly on Friday said out-of-form India batter Virat Kohli needs to score runs not only for the team but "for himself" too and added that it doesn`t happen that a big player doesn`t score for such a long time.

Star India batter has been out of form for a very long time and was unable to slam a century in two years. Kohli`s final century came against Bangladesh in the second Test of the two-match series on November 23, 2019. Kohli scored a knock of 136 runs in that match.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bhaichung-bhutia-draws-parallels-with-sourav-ganguly-to-explain-why-he-deserves-aiff-presidential-post-510451" hreflang="en">Bhaichung Bhutia draws parallels with Sourav Ganguly to explain why he deserves AIFF presidential post</a>

Since his last century, Kohli has played 18 Test matches and scored 872 runs across 32 innings at an average of 27.25. He has crossed the fifty-run mark six times with the best score of 79.

"Virat Kohli is a big player, playing for a long time. He has a different style of scoring runs. It doesn`t happen that a big player doesn`t score for such a long time. It is essential to score runs for India as well as himself," BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly in Kolkata.

The ongoing year 2022, is currently his worst year so far though not complete. He has represented India in 16 matches and across 19 innings, he had been able to score only 476 runs at a sub-par average of 25.05. Only four half-centuries have come off his bat, with the best score of 79.

This lack of centuries from the star batter who once used to hit them for fun has left many fans and players disappointed. The cricket fraternity has given a polarising response to Kohli`s lack of form over the years. While some have backed him to come good, some have responded negatively and even questioned his place in the Indian team.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/one-of-the-greats-former-pakistan-cricketer-hails-ravichandran-ashwin-as-world-class-510437" hreflang="en">‘One of the greats’- Former Pakistan cricketer hails Ravichandran Ashwin as 'world-class'</a>

India will take on Pakistan on August 28 in their opening game of the T20I tournament. Talking about the most-awaited clash between India and Pakistan, Ganguly said, "India and Pakistan matches are different.

"There is added pressure in these matches. Rohit (Sharma), (KL) Rahul and Virat (Kohli) know how to handle pressure. Nobody is less or more. Anything is possible in T20." Team India is looking for their eight-time Asia Cup victory. Asia Cup 2022 will be played in UAE, starting from August 27 through September 11.

Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly on Friday said out-of-form India batter Virat Kohli needs to score runs not only for the team but "for himself" too and added that it doesn`t happen that a big player doesn`t score for such a long time.

Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly on Friday said out-of-form India batter Virat Kohli needs to score runs not only for the team but "for himself" too and added that it doesn`t happen that a big player doesn`t score for such a long time. Star India batter has been out of form for a very long time and was unable to slam a century in two years. Kohli`s final century came against Bangladesh in the second Test of the two-match series on November 23, 2019. Kohli scored a knock of 136 runs in that match. ALSO READ: Bhaichung Bhutia draws parallels with Sourav Ganguly to explain why he deserves AIFF presidential post Since his last century, Kohli has played 18 Test matches and scored 872 runs across 32 innings at an average of 27.25. He has crossed the fifty-run mark six times with the best score of 79. "Virat Kohli is a big player, playing for a long time. He has a different style of scoring runs. It doesn`t happen that a big player doesn`t score for such a long time. It is essential to score runs for India as well as himself," BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly in Kolkata. The ongoing year 2022, is currently his worst year so far though not complete. He has represented India in 16 matches and across 19 innings, he had been able to score only 476 runs at a sub-par average of 25.05. Only four half-centuries have come off his bat, with the best score of 79. This lack of centuries from the star batter who once used to hit them for fun has left many fans and players disappointed. The cricket fraternity has given a polarising response to Kohli`s lack of form over the years. While some have backed him to come good, some have responded negatively and even questioned his place in the Indian team. ALSO READ: ‘One of the greats’- Former Pakistan cricketer hails Ravichandran Ashwin as 'world-class' India will take on Pakistan on August 28 in their opening game of the T20I tournament. Talking about the most-awaited clash between India and Pakistan, Ganguly said, "India and Pakistan matches are different. "There is added pressure in these matches. Rohit (Sharma), (KL) Rahul and Virat (Kohli) know how to handle pressure. Nobody is less or more. Anything is possible in T20." Team India is looking for their eight-time Asia Cup victory. Asia Cup 2022 will be played in UAE, starting from August 27 through September 11.

'Kohli is a big player'- Sourav Ganguly reveals former Indian skipper needs to score 'for himself'

Former Indian footballing icon Bhaichung Bhutia is one of the frontrunners for the role of AIFF president. He recently likened himself to Sourav Ganguly who is currently functioning in the capacity of BCCI president. He admitted that he had the credibility and experience to effectively perform the duties that come with the coveted post.

"Today what I've become is only because of football. I'm a Padma Shri because of it. I played for India for 16 years -- this is my moment to give back to my sport. It needs reforms with the ban happening.&nbsp;I'm not new to AIFF. I'm working with the government and the sports ministry. The government is supporting all sportspersons. Our PM is helping sports grow in India."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-will-be-a-better-president-bhaichung-bhutia-on-what-sets-him-apart-from-rival-kalyan-chaubey-510196">'I will be a better president'- Bhaichung Bhutia on what sets him apart from rival Kalyan Chaubey</a>

Bhutia, who has been campaigning for the position rather vigorously, admitted that Ganguly&nbsp;managed to do wonders for the Indian cricketing community by occupying a position of power in the administrative wing of the sport.

Arguing his case for the position of AIFF president, Bhutia noted that he shared a feature with Ganguly as both are former captains of their respective national teams, asserting that he could replicate Dada's success in the realm of Indian football.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aiff-write-to-fifa-requesting-to-lift-ban-after-supreme-court-dissolves-committee-of-administrators-509699" hreflang="en">AIFF writes to FIFA, requests to lift ban after Supreme Court dissolves Committee of Administrators</a>

"I have the experience, the knowledge, and plans for Indian football. I can do it. With so much negativity around, we need reforms. Sportspersons are now motivated to enter administration. Look at Sourav Ganguly, he is an iconic cricketer and doing so well in cricket administration."

The contest to become&nbsp;the AIFF president is effectively a two-horse race. Bhutia's biggest competitor for the position is a former Indian goalkeeper, Kalyan Chaubey, who has enjoyed a tremendous amount of support from football associations from all over the country.&nbsp;

Former Indian footballing icon Bhaichung Bhutia is one of the frontrunners for the role of AIFF president. He recently likened himself to Sourav Ganguly who is currently functioning in the capacity of BCCI president.

Former Indian footballing icon Bhaichung Bhutia is one of the frontrunners for the role of AIFF president. He recently likened himself to Sourav Ganguly who is currently functioning in the capacity of BCCI president. He admitted that he had the credibility and experience to effectively perform the duties that come with the coveted post. "Today what I've become is only because of football. I'm a Padma Shri because of it. I played for India for 16 years -- this is my moment to give back to my sport. It needs reforms with the ban happening. I'm not new to AIFF. I'm working with the government and the sports ministry. The government is supporting all sportspersons. Our PM is helping sports grow in India." ALSO READ: 'I will be a better president'- Bhaichung Bhutia on what sets him apart from rival Kalyan Chaubey Bhutia, who has been campaigning for the position rather vigorously, admitted that Ganguly managed to do wonders for the Indian cricketing community by occupying a position of power in the administrative wing of the sport. Arguing his case for the position of AIFF president, Bhutia noted that he shared a feature with Ganguly as both are former captains of their respective national teams, asserting that he could replicate Dada's success in the realm of Indian football. ALSO READ: AIFF writes to FIFA, requests to lift ban after Supreme Court dissolves Committee of Administrators "I have the experience, the knowledge, and plans for Indian football. I can do it. With so much negativity around, we need reforms. Sportspersons are now motivated to enter administration. Look at Sourav Ganguly, he is an iconic cricketer and doing so well in cricket administration." The contest to become the AIFF president is effectively a two-horse race. Bhutia's biggest competitor for the position is a former Indian goalkeeper, Kalyan Chaubey, who has enjoyed a tremendous amount of support from football associations from all over the country.

Bhaichung Bhutia draws parallels with Sourav Ganguly to explain why he deserves AIFF presidential post

The BCCI has moved to position VVS Laxman as the interim head coach to lead India's charge in this year's edition of the Asia Cup. The commission was forced to call upon the NCA Chief after Rahul Dravid, who was previously backed to lead the team,&nbsp;was ruled out after he tested positive for the COVID-19 bug.

The commission released a statement addressing the issue. "VVS Laxman, Head Cricket, NCA will be the interim Head Coach for Team India (Senior Men) for the upcoming ACC Asia Cup 2022, to be played in the UAE.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sanjay-bangar-points-out-small-challenges-infront-of-rohit-sharma-ahead-of-team-indias-asia-cup-campaign-509822" hreflang="en">Sanjay Bangar points out 'small challenges' infront of Rohit Sharma ahead of Team India's Asia Cup campaign</a>

“Mr Laxman, who travelled with the Indian team that played the ODI series in Zimbabwe will oversee the team’s preparation in the absence of Mr Rahul Dravid, who tested positive for&nbsp;<a href="https://indianexpress.com/about/coronavirus/lite/">COVID-19</a>&nbsp;before the team’s departure to the UAE. Mr Dravid will join the team once he tests negative and is cleared by the BCCI Medical Team,” said the statement.

Dravid tested positive for the virus shortly before he was scheduled to travel with the team to the United Arab Emirates and has been isolating ever since, hoping to recover soon enough to make his way back to fitness.

However, the BCCI revealed that Dravid will most certainly return to lead the team through to the end of the once he recovers from the virus and is cleared by BCCI medical team to return to active contention. India will begin their Asia Cup campaign on August 28th against arch-rivals, Pakistan. Their initial charge will be overseen by none other than VVS Laxman.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/winner-of-india-vs-pakistan-will-clinch-the-asia-cup-title-claims-shane-watson-509838" hreflang="en">Winner of India vs Pakistan will clinch the Asia Cup title, claims Shane Watson</a>

Laxman attended India's three-match ODI series against Zimbabwe, which came to an end with the Men in Blue walking away with a dominant win against The Chevrons. Team India's 3-0 whitewash against Zimbabwe marked their third ODI series clean sweep in 2022, earning them the record for most whitewash ODI series wins this year.

Although India routed Zimbabwe in their first two games, winning the series with a game in hand, the third game of the series proved to be relatively trickier. Zimbabwe tried their level best to take matters down to the wire with Sikander Raza's century; however, it was not enough to overcome the challenge presented by the Indians as they walked away with the win by 13 runs.

The BCCI has moved to position VVS Laxman as the interim head coach to lead India's charge in this year's edition of the Asia Cup. The commission was forced to call upon the NCA Chief after Rahul Dravid, who was previously backed to lead the team, was ruled out after he tested positive for the COVID-19 bug.

The BCCI has moved to position VVS Laxman as the interim head coach to lead India's charge in this year's edition of the Asia Cup. The commission was forced to call upon the NCA Chief after Rahul Dravid, who was previously backed to lead the team, was ruled out after he tested positive for the COVID-19 bug. The commission released a statement addressing the issue. "VVS Laxman, Head Cricket, NCA will be the interim Head Coach for Team India (Senior Men) for the upcoming ACC Asia Cup 2022, to be played in the UAE. ALSO READ: Sanjay Bangar points out 'small challenges' infront of Rohit Sharma ahead of Team India's Asia Cup campaign “Mr Laxman, who travelled with the Indian team that played the ODI series in Zimbabwe will oversee the team’s preparation in the absence of Mr Rahul Dravid, who tested positive for COVID-19 before the team’s departure to the UAE. Mr Dravid will join the team once he tests negative and is cleared by the BCCI Medical Team,” said the statement. Dravid tested positive for the virus shortly before he was scheduled to travel with the team to the United Arab Emirates and has been isolating ever since, hoping to recover soon enough to make his way back to fitness. However, the BCCI revealed that Dravid will most certainly return to lead the team through to the end of the once he recovers from the virus and is cleared by BCCI medical team to return to active contention. India will begin their Asia Cup campaign on August 28th against arch-rivals, Pakistan. Their initial charge will be overseen by none other than VVS Laxman. ALSO READ: Winner of India vs Pakistan will clinch the Asia Cup title, claims Shane Watson Laxman attended India's three-match ODI series against Zimbabwe, which came to an end with the Men in Blue walking away with a dominant win against The Chevrons. Team India's 3-0 whitewash against Zimbabwe marked their third ODI series clean sweep in 2022, earning them the record for most whitewash ODI series wins this year. Although India routed Zimbabwe in their first two games, winning the series with a game in hand, the third game of the series proved to be relatively trickier. Zimbabwe tried their level best to take matters down to the wire with Sikander Raza's century; however, it was not enough to overcome the challenge presented by the Indians as they walked away with the win by 13 runs.

BCCI appoints VVS Laxman as interim head coach for Asia Cup 2022 amid Rahul Dravid's COVID-19 woes

Vinod Kambli, who previously represented Indian cricket on the international stage, recently offered fans some insight into how Sachin Tendulkar has helped him wade through financial problems in his post-retirement life by offering him opportunities to work and grow.&nbsp;

Kambli recently opened up about his financial woes in the post-pandemic era as he has been making ends meet with the pension that the BCCI provides him. In a recent statement, he admitted that he was on the hunt for more assignments in cricket to support his family financially.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/his-tolerance-was-very-little-dinesh-karthik-explains-what-annoyed-ex-india-coach-ravi-shastri-the-most-507741" hreflang="en">'His tolerance was very little...' - Dinesh Karthik explains what annoyed ex-India coach Ravi Shastri the most</a>

While discussing his past exploits, the former Indian cricketer waxed lyrical about the impact that Sachin Tendulkar has left on his life by offering him the opportunity to work at the&nbsp;Tendulkar Middlesex Global Academy in Nerul, Navi Mumbai. However, it seems like the commute to Nerul to fulfill his duties has taken a toll on the&nbsp;50-year-old.

"He (Sachin) knows everything, but I am not expecting anything from him. He gave me the TMGA (Tendulkar Middlesex Global Academy) assignment. I was very happy. He has been a very good friend. He has always been there for me."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/if-someone-has-been-md-kaif-reacts-to-rahul-replacing-dhawan-as-india-captain-for-zimbabwe-odis-507708" hreflang="en">'If someone has been...' - Md Kaif reacts to Rahul replacing Dhawan as India captain for Zimbabwe ODIs</a>

Kambli subsequently revealed his short term goal of working for the Mumbai team,&nbsp;"I need assignments, where I can work with youngsters. I know Mumbai have retained Amol (Muzumdar) as their head coach, but if anywhere I am needed, I am there. We have played together and we were a great team. That’s what I want them (Mumbai team) to do...to play as a team."

Kambli played a vital role in furthering India's stock in the international cricketing forum by featuring in&nbsp;17 Test matches and 104 ODIs. As far as his haul of runs across multiple formats&nbsp;is concerned, Kambli scored&nbsp;3561 runs in total, including&nbsp;two ODI centuries and&nbsp;four Test hundreds between 1991 and 2000.

Vinod Kambli, who previously represented Indian cricket on the international stage, recently offered fans some insight into how Sachin Tendulkar has helped him wade through financial problems in his post-retirement life by offering him opportunities to work and grow.

Vinod Kambli, who previously represented Indian cricket on the international stage, recently offered fans some insight into how Sachin Tendulkar has helped him wade through financial problems in his post-retirement life by offering him opportunities to work and grow. Kambli recently opened up about his financial woes in the post-pandemic era as he has been making ends meet with the pension that the BCCI provides him. In a recent statement, he admitted that he was on the hunt for more assignments in cricket to support his family financially. ALSO READ: 'His tolerance was very little...' - Dinesh Karthik explains what annoyed ex-India coach Ravi Shastri the most While discussing his past exploits, the former Indian cricketer waxed lyrical about the impact that Sachin Tendulkar has left on his life by offering him the opportunity to work at the Tendulkar Middlesex Global Academy in Nerul, Navi Mumbai. However, it seems like the commute to Nerul to fulfill his duties has taken a toll on the 50-year-old. "He (Sachin) knows everything, but I am not expecting anything from him. He gave me the TMGA (Tendulkar Middlesex Global Academy) assignment. I was very happy. He has been a very good friend. He has always been there for me." ALSO READ: 'If someone has been...' - Md Kaif reacts to Rahul replacing Dhawan as India captain for Zimbabwe ODIs Kambli subsequently revealed his short term goal of working for the Mumbai team, "I need assignments, where I can work with youngsters. I know Mumbai have retained Amol (Muzumdar) as their head coach, but if anywhere I am needed, I am there. We have played together and we were a great team. That’s what I want them (Mumbai team) to do...to play as a team." Kambli played a vital role in furthering India's stock in the international cricketing forum by featuring in 17 Test matches and 104 ODIs. As far as his haul of runs across multiple formats is concerned, Kambli scored 3561 runs in total, including two ODI centuries and four Test hundreds between 1991 and 2000.

Sachin knows everything, but I am not expecting anything from him: Vinod Kambli on his financial situation

Former BCCI acting secretary and former president of the Jharkhand State Cricket Association (JSCA), Amitabh Choudhary passed away from a heart attack on Tuesday. He was 62. Choudhary worked as the former JSCA president for more than a decade and also rose to become the BCCI`s joint-secretary. During the Committee of Administrators` power in the cricket board, he also performed the role of its acting secretary. A couple of years ago, he was appointed as the chairman of the Jharkhand Public Service Commission.

Choudhary played an instrumental role in making Ranchi the headquarters of Jharkhand cricket, shifting the base from Jamshedpur. A world-class stadium was built and befittingly one end of the stadium was named after him. He was the Indian team manager in Zimbabwe from 2005-06.

Former BCCI acting secretary and former president of the Jharkhand State Cricket Association (JSCA), Amitabh Choudhary passed away from a heart attack on Tuesday.

Former BCCI acting secretary and former president of the Jharkhand State Cricket Association (JSCA), Amitabh Choudhary passed away from a heart attack on Tuesday. He was 62. Choudhary worked as the former JSCA president for more than a decade and also rose to become the BCCI`s joint-secretary. During the Committee of Administrators` power in the cricket board, he also performed the role of its acting secretary. A couple of years ago, he was appointed as the chairman of the Jharkhand Public Service Commission. Choudhary played an instrumental role in making Ranchi the headquarters of Jharkhand cricket, shifting the base from Jamshedpur. A world-class stadium was built and befittingly one end of the stadium was named after him. He was the Indian team manager in Zimbabwe from 2005-06.

Former BCCI acting secretary Amitabh Choudhary passes away from a heart attack

Rohit Sharma was promoted as India's full-time captain after Virat Kohli relinquished captaincy duties altogether by resigning as the red-ball captain early this year. Hitman, as Rohit is fondly called worldwide, has come a long way ever since his international debut in 2007. After his debut, he struggled for consistency -- despite showcasing his skills and talent in his early days -- before his fortunes changing after becoming a limited-overs opener since the 2013 Champions Trophy. Later in the same year, Rohit made his Test debut and scored two tons in his first-ever red-ball game but never managed to settle in the Test line-up in the following years.&nbsp;

Rohit's stature continued to grow in white-ball formats, where he came to his own since early 2016, he didn't play a single Test between&nbsp;October 2016 and November 2017. Moreover, his next Test century -- after his debut match -- also came in late 2017. While he was part of the South Africa Tests, in the African nation, in early 2018 and was among runs in the limited-overs series versus hosts England -- during Virat Kohli &amp; Co.'s trip to the United Kingdom after a few months -- he was dropped for the five Tests versus Joe Root-led England. Thus, veteran keeper-batter Dinesh Karthik recently revealed that the 2018 Test omission hit Rohit really hard.

"He had almost gone down the path where he was so successful as a white-ball cricketer. He was happy doing that. And when he did come back into the Test team, you've got to remember in 2018, he was dropped from the Test team. He was sent back after the white-ball leg and that really hurt him. Rohit Sharma did not see that coming and that really tore him to shreds," Karthik said in the docu-series Summer Stalemate on Cricbuzz.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sourav-ganguly-opines-on-team-indias-multiple-captaincy-changes-in-2022-explains-how-it-has-been-beneficial-507450">Sourav Ganguly opines on Team India's multiple captaincy changes in 2022, explains how it has been beneficial</a>

While Rohit wasn't part of India's 4-1 loss at the hands of hosts England during the 2018 English summer, his red-ball career blossomed post his staggering success in the 2019 ODI World Cup. After the mega event, then head coach Ravi Shastri backed Rohit as a Test opener and Hitman hasn't disappointed ever since. Since India's home series versus South Africa in October 2019, Rohit has scored as many as five centuries -- including a double ton and also registering his maiden triple-figure knock in the format in overseas -- along with four half-centuries.

Rohit Sharma was promoted as India's full-time captain after Virat Kohli relinquished captaincy duties altogether by resigning as the red-ball captain early this year.

Rohit Sharma was promoted as India's full-time captain after Virat Kohli relinquished captaincy duties altogether by resigning as the red-ball captain early this year. Hitman, as Rohit is fondly called worldwide, has come a long way ever since his international debut in 2007. After his debut, he struggled for consistency -- despite showcasing his skills and talent in his early days -- before his fortunes changing after becoming a limited-overs opener since the 2013 Champions Trophy. Later in the same year, Rohit made his Test debut and scored two tons in his first-ever red-ball game but never managed to settle in the Test line-up in the following years. Rohit's stature continued to grow in white-ball formats, where he came to his own since early 2016, he didn't play a single Test between October 2016 and November 2017. Moreover, his next Test century -- after his debut match -- also came in late 2017. While he was part of the South Africa Tests, in the African nation, in early 2018 and was among runs in the limited-overs series versus hosts England -- during Virat Kohli & Co.'s trip to the United Kingdom after a few months -- he was dropped for the five Tests versus Joe Root-led England. Thus, veteran keeper-batter Dinesh Karthik recently revealed that the 2018 Test omission hit Rohit really hard. "He had almost gone down the path where he was so successful as a white-ball cricketer. He was happy doing that. And when he did come back into the Test team, you've got to remember in 2018, he was dropped from the Test team. He was sent back after the white-ball leg and that really hurt him. Rohit Sharma did not see that coming and that really tore him to shreds," Karthik said in the docu-series Summer Stalemate on Cricbuzz. ALSO READ | Sourav Ganguly opines on Team India's multiple captaincy changes in 2022, explains how it has been beneficial While Rohit wasn't part of India's 4-1 loss at the hands of hosts England during the 2018 English summer, his red-ball career blossomed post his staggering success in the 2019 ODI World Cup. After the mega event, then head coach Ravi Shastri backed Rohit as a Test opener and Hitman hasn't disappointed ever since. Since India's home series versus South Africa in October 2019, Rohit has scored as many as five centuries -- including a double ton and also registering his maiden triple-figure knock in the format in overseas -- along with four half-centuries.

He did not see that coming: Dinesh Karthik recalls Rohit Sharma's low point that 'tore him to shreds'

In the Rohit Sharma-Rahul Dravid era, India are shaping up really well ahead of the 2022 T20 World Cup, from October-November in Australia. The T20I line-up is playing with a lot of freedom and aggression whereas the ODI team has also done well. The Test squad, however,&nbsp;has lost some golden opportunities of winning a series in South Africa and England as they continue to rebuild post the staggering success achieved in the Virat Kohli-era.

Nonetheless, India have not looked out of sorts in any format post Kohli's captaincy tenure. One of the most-talked-about-aspects in the Rohit-Rahul era is that India have made multiple captaincy changes in 2022, with as many as seven players leading the side across formats. Thus, a lot has been said and written on India's multiple captaincy changes in the ongoing calendar year. This has primarily been done to give rest to senior players, along with regular captain Rohit, which has resulted in various future captaincy contenders auditioning for the top post whereas it has also led to the national team having a huge pool of players.

Recently, BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly also opined on India's multiple captaincy changes in 2022 and explained how it has been beneficial. "Rohit Sharma is now the all-format captain. And they play so much, injuries are bound to happen and hence they do need injury-breaks. This gives the advantage that there are a lot of new players who have come up. And we won in West Indies and in England with these new bunch of players. India now have a pool of 30 players who can now play for the national team anytime,” Ganguly told India Today.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/who-should-succeed-rohit-sharma-as-indias-test-captain-former-indian-opener-shares-his-choice-507442">Who should succeed Rohit Sharma as India's Test captain? Former Indian opener shares his choice</a>

Currently, KL Rahul-led India are in Zimbabwe as the second-stringed Men in Blue squad is gearing up for a three-match ODI series versus the African nation, starting on August 18. After that, Rohit &amp; Co. will feature in the upcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition, in the UAE, which will be played in the shortest format as a dress rehearsal for the T20 World Cup Down Under.

In the Rohit Sharma-Rahul Dravid era, India are shaping up really well ahead of the 2022 T20 World Cup, from October-November in Australia. The T20I line-up is playing with a lot of freedom and aggression whereas the ODI team has also done well.

In the Rohit Sharma-Rahul Dravid era, India are shaping up really well ahead of the 2022 T20 World Cup, from October-November in Australia. The T20I line-up is playing with a lot of freedom and aggression whereas the ODI team has also done well. The Test squad, however, has lost some golden opportunities of winning a series in South Africa and England as they continue to rebuild post the staggering success achieved in the Virat Kohli-era. Nonetheless, India have not looked out of sorts in any format post Kohli's captaincy tenure. One of the most-talked-about-aspects in the Rohit-Rahul era is that India have made multiple captaincy changes in 2022, with as many as seven players leading the side across formats. Thus, a lot has been said and written on India's multiple captaincy changes in the ongoing calendar year. This has primarily been done to give rest to senior players, along with regular captain Rohit, which has resulted in various future captaincy contenders auditioning for the top post whereas it has also led to the national team having a huge pool of players. Recently, BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly also opined on India's multiple captaincy changes in 2022 and explained how it has been beneficial. "Rohit Sharma is now the all-format captain. And they play so much, injuries are bound to happen and hence they do need injury-breaks. This gives the advantage that there are a lot of new players who have come up. And we won in West Indies and in England with these new bunch of players. India now have a pool of 30 players who can now play for the national team anytime,” Ganguly told India Today. ALSO READ | Who should succeed Rohit Sharma as India's Test captain? Former Indian opener shares his choice Currently, KL Rahul-led India are in Zimbabwe as the second-stringed Men in Blue squad is gearing up for a three-match ODI series versus the African nation, starting on August 18. After that, Rohit & Co. will feature in the upcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition, in the UAE, which will be played in the shortest format as a dress rehearsal for the T20 World Cup Down Under.

Sourav Ganguly opines on Team India's multiple captaincy changes in 2022, explains how it has been beneficial

Former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra recently compared the captaincy styles of Virat Kohli and current Team India skipper Rohit Sharma. Rohit took over from Virat in T20Is soon after his resignation post the 2021 T20 World Cup, took over as ODI captain post his predecessor Kohli's sacking and was also named the Test captain early this year, after Virat gave up captaincy duties altogether.

Since then, Rohit-led India have done well in the limited-overs format and are gearing up for the 2022 Asia Cup, which will be followed by the T20 World Cup in October-November in Australia. Under Kohli, India did achieve a lot of success across formats -- despite not winning an ICC title -- and were an aggressive unit. However, Chopra made an interesting claim by saying that players under Rohit are far from attacking in their approach.&nbsp;

"Virat Kohli's big focus was - 'I want to do this.' It was a lot about wanting to set an example. Virat Kohli was very very aggressive on the field, in your face, never taking a backward step, but the team was not that aggressive under Virat Kohli," Chopra said on his Youtube channel. "That's a very interesting bit that he was himself very aggressive but the team was not aggressive. There could be multiple reasons for that. He talked about intent many times but we saw [Cheteshwar] Pujara getting run out twice in one match. So the 'intent' word was perhaps not understood correctly," he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/let-him-practice-bcci-president-sourav-ganguly-reacts-to-virat-kohlis-lean-patch-ahead-of-asia-cup-2022-507186">'Let him practice': BCCI president Sourav Ganguly reacts to Virat Kohli's lean patch ahead of Asia Cup 2022</a>

Meanwhile, Chopra opined that Rohit might not seem to be that aggressive and animated, however, the team plays with a lot of freedom and aggression in his leadership. "Rohit Sharma is a very interesting character as a captain. The one thing I like about him a lot is that when you meet Rohit Sharma or see him on the ground, he doesn't look animated but the team that plays under him attacks," Chopra opined.

"We have seen that they play with freedom or you can say aggression. The main reason for that is he gives confidence to the team, that they have made a philosophy, they will play according to that, and that he is standing behind the players and will not let them get dropped," he further asserted.

Former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra recently compared the captaincy styles of Virat Kohli and current Team India skipper Rohit Sharma. Rohit took over from Virat in T20Is soon after his resignation post the 2021 T20 World Cup, took over as ODI captain post his predecessor Kohli's sacking and was also named the Test captain early this year, after Virat gave up captaincy duties altogether.

Former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra recently compared the captaincy styles of Virat Kohli and current Team India skipper Rohit Sharma. Rohit took over from Virat in T20Is soon after his resignation post the 2021 T20 World Cup, took over as ODI captain post his predecessor Kohli's sacking and was also named the Test captain early this year, after Virat gave up captaincy duties altogether. Since then, Rohit-led India have done well in the limited-overs format and are gearing up for the 2022 Asia Cup, which will be followed by the T20 World Cup in October-November in Australia. Under Kohli, India did achieve a lot of success across formats -- despite not winning an ICC title -- and were an aggressive unit. However, Chopra made an interesting claim by saying that players under Rohit are far from attacking in their approach. "Virat Kohli's big focus was - 'I want to do this.' It was a lot about wanting to set an example. Virat Kohli was very very aggressive on the field, in your face, never taking a backward step, but the team was not that aggressive under Virat Kohli," Chopra said on his Youtube channel. "That's a very interesting bit that he was himself very aggressive but the team was not aggressive. There could be multiple reasons for that. He talked about intent many times but we saw [Cheteshwar] Pujara getting run out twice in one match. So the 'intent' word was perhaps not understood correctly," he added. ALSO READ | 'Let him practice': BCCI president Sourav Ganguly reacts to Virat Kohli's lean patch ahead of Asia Cup 2022 Meanwhile, Chopra opined that Rohit might not seem to be that aggressive and animated, however, the team plays with a lot of freedom and aggression in his leadership. "Rohit Sharma is a very interesting character as a captain. The one thing I like about him a lot is that when you meet Rohit Sharma or see him on the ground, he doesn't look animated but the team that plays under him attacks," Chopra opined. "We have seen that they play with freedom or you can say aggression. The main reason for that is he gives confidence to the team, that they have made a philosophy, they will play according to that, and that he is standing behind the players and will not let them get dropped," he further asserted.

Team India wasn't aggressive under Kohli, but players attack under Rohit's captaincy, feels Aakash Chopra

Former New Zealand national cricket team star Ross Taylor recently sent the cricketing community into a frenzy by levelling allegations of getting slapped by one of the owners of his previous IPL team, Rajasthan Royals. His claims were recently addressed by a BCCI official, who said that he was unaware of the incident.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-was-laughing-former-rajasthan-royals-star-ross-taylor-shockingly-reveals-he-was-slapped-by-an-owner-506566">'He was laughing'- Former Rajasthan Royals star Ross Taylor shockingly reveals he was slapped by owner</a>

Taylor offered fans some insight into the time he was slapped by one of the owners of the franchise in his recently released autobiography, 'Black &amp; White.' He recalled the time&nbsp;he had gotten out for duck during a steep chase against Kings XI Punjab, now known as Punjab Kings.

He subsequently revealed that the&nbsp;team's owners did not take too kindly to the result, slapping him across the face 'three or four times'. He admitted that although the owner played it off as a joke and the&nbsp;slaps weren't particularly hard, it did not seem like the kind of thing that would take place in any other professional sporting environment across the world.

In a recent interaction with the media, a representative of the BCCI addressed these claims, admitting that he had no knowledge of this incident ever taking place. It is essential to note that the comment was seemingly made in haste as the BCCI rep was preoccupied with travel. "I am on the road travelling now so I do not know exactly what you are talking about," said the official.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-had-to-get-security-to-extract-us-when-ross-taylors-coffee-outing-with-rahul-dravid-in-india-went-wrong-506790">We had to get security to extract us: When Ross Taylor's coffee outing with Rahul Dravid in India went wrong</a>

The Kiwi parted ways with the Rajasthan Royals in 2011 to play under the banner of Delhi Capitals, who were previously known as Delhi Daredevils. Towards the end of his stint in the IPL, Taylor featured on the roster of the now defunct Pune Warriors India.

Former New Zealand national cricket team star Ross Taylor recently sent the cricketing community into a frenzy by levelling allegations of getting slapped by one of the owners of his previous IPL team, Rajasthan Royals.

Former New Zealand national cricket team star Ross Taylor recently sent the cricketing community into a frenzy by levelling allegations of getting slapped by one of the owners of his previous IPL team, Rajasthan Royals. His claims were recently addressed by a BCCI official, who said that he was unaware of the incident. ALSO READ: 'He was laughing'- Former Rajasthan Royals star Ross Taylor shockingly reveals he was slapped by owner Taylor offered fans some insight into the time he was slapped by one of the owners of the franchise in his recently released autobiography, 'Black & White.' He recalled the time he had gotten out for duck during a steep chase against Kings XI Punjab, now known as Punjab Kings. He subsequently revealed that the team's owners did not take too kindly to the result, slapping him across the face 'three or four times'. He admitted that although the owner played it off as a joke and the slaps weren't particularly hard, it did not seem like the kind of thing that would take place in any other professional sporting environment across the world. In a recent interaction with the media, a representative of the BCCI addressed these claims, admitting that he had no knowledge of this incident ever taking place. It is essential to note that the comment was seemingly made in haste as the BCCI rep was preoccupied with travel. "I am on the road travelling now so I do not know exactly what you are talking about," said the official. ALSO READ: We had to get security to extract us: When Ross Taylor's coffee outing with Rahul Dravid in India went wrong The Kiwi parted ways with the Rajasthan Royals in 2011 to play under the banner of Delhi Capitals, who were previously known as Delhi Daredevils. Towards the end of his stint in the IPL, Taylor featured on the roster of the now defunct Pune Warriors India.

BCCI official issues response to Ross Taylor’s shocking revelation of Rajasthan Royals slapgate

Ahead of India's departure for their tour of Zimbabwe, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced that KL Rahul will also be part of the trip to the African nation. Rahul, who last played an international match in early 2022, has recovered from sports hernia&nbsp;surgery and Covid-19 and has also been named the captain, replacing Shikhar Dhawan.

This decision hasn't impressed many former Indian cricketers. Aakash Chopra, the former Indian opener-turned-commentator-cum-expert, has now joined the bandwagon and feels that the change in leadership could have been avoided.

"If it was in my hands, I would have avoided that. He (Rahul) was originally not named in the squad for Zimbabwe series," Aakash Chopra said on his YouTube channel.

"I understand he is the vice-captain for the Asia Cup but there is another truth, that currently there are 8-10 captains in the team. Rishabh Pant is captain, Hardik Pandya is captain, and I do not think Suryakumar is far away from captaincy. Rohit Sharma is the captain, Virat Kohli has been the captain before. It was not important, this thing could have been avoided," Chopra further opined.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/making-him-captain-or-ex-india-stumper-on-rahul-replacing-dhawan-as-skipper-for-zimbabwe-tour-506419">'Making him captain or....' - Ex-India stumper on Rahul replacing Dhawan as skipper for Zimbabwe tour</a>

"Shikhar Dhawan is a senior guy, how does it matter if he is the captain? KL Rahul can play purely as a batter, it does not matter if he is the captain or not. You could have carried on with it, if you had announced Shikhar Dhawan as captain, you could have let it be. In my opinion, Dhawan should have stayed as the captain," the former opener added.

Dhawan had led Rohit Sharma-less India during the three ODIs versus West Indies, in the Caribbean island, whereas Rahul was then out of action after contracting Covid-19 infection. It will be interesting to see how Rahul performs as captain and batter in the Zimbabwe tour ahead of the Asia Cup and 2022 T20 World Cup, in Australia.

The Zimbabwe ODIs kicks off on August 18.

Ahead of India's departure for their tour of Zimbabwe, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced that KL Rahul will also be part of the trip to the African nation.

Ahead of India's departure for their tour of Zimbabwe, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced that KL Rahul will also be part of the trip to the African nation. Rahul, who last played an international match in early 2022, has recovered from sports hernia surgery and Covid-19 and has also been named the captain, replacing Shikhar Dhawan. This decision hasn't impressed many former Indian cricketers. Aakash Chopra, the former Indian opener-turned-commentator-cum-expert, has now joined the bandwagon and feels that the change in leadership could have been avoided. "If it was in my hands, I would have avoided that. He (Rahul) was originally not named in the squad for Zimbabwe series," Aakash Chopra said on his YouTube channel. "I understand he is the vice-captain for the Asia Cup but there is another truth, that currently there are 8-10 captains in the team. Rishabh Pant is captain, Hardik Pandya is captain, and I do not think Suryakumar is far away from captaincy. Rohit Sharma is the captain, Virat Kohli has been the captain before. It was not important, this thing could have been avoided," Chopra further opined. ALSO READ | 'Making him captain or....' - Ex-India stumper on Rahul replacing Dhawan as skipper for Zimbabwe tour "Shikhar Dhawan is a senior guy, how does it matter if he is the captain? KL Rahul can play purely as a batter, it does not matter if he is the captain or not. You could have carried on with it, if you had announced Shikhar Dhawan as captain, you could have let it be. In my opinion, Dhawan should have stayed as the captain," the former opener added. Dhawan had led Rohit Sharma-less India during the three ODIs versus West Indies, in the Caribbean island, whereas Rahul was then out of action after contracting Covid-19 infection. It will be interesting to see how Rahul performs as captain and batter in the Zimbabwe tour ahead of the Asia Cup and 2022 T20 World Cup, in Australia. The Zimbabwe ODIs kicks off on August 18.

'It could've been avoided': Aakash Chopra on Rahul replacing Dhawan as India captain for Zimbabwe tour

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) roped in KL Rahul in India's squad for the tour of Zimbabwe, where a second-stringed side will play three ODIs. While announcing Rahul's presence for the African tour, BCCI also named him the captain; removing Shikhar Dhawan from the post.

Initially, Dhawan was named in-charge of the second-stringed side for the Zimbabwe series. However, with Rahul regaining fitness -- coming from a&nbsp;sports hernia surgery and Covid-19 -- the board announced the regular white-ball vice-captain as the leader for the Zimbabwe tour. Former Indian stumper Saba Karim has now opened up on this sudden change in leadership and remains unimpressed.

“KL Rahul should have played the series only as a member, making him captain or vice-captain is not that important. He is coming after a long break. Shikhar Dhawan is a senior member of the squad who has delivered in white-ball cricket. You have to give him importance once you make the announcement as captain," Karim was quoted as saying by India News Sports.

“I would like to add that Shikhar led the side very well against West Indies in the ODI series. He was also decent with the bat. India whitewashed the series with a bunch of youngsters. A lot of them performed very well under his captaincy. Dhawan looked in complete control, whether it was the field setup, tactics, or strategy. He inspired the youngsters as a leader," the former chief selector&nbsp;added.

<section>
ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-will-pakistan-make-it-3-0-vs-india-on-facing-them-thrice-babar-azam-answers-journalists-query-506167">Asia Cup: Will Pakistan make it 3-0 vs India on facing them thrice? Babar Azam answers journalist's query</a>

“The kind of change in captaincy trend is strange and questionable. Such decisions need to be taken very cautiously. There is no need to rush as it is associated with a team environment, you need to build the team spirit. A captain begins to think about his plans for upcoming matches and then you suddenly make a change. It affects the morale of the cricketer," said Karim.

Dhawan had led India in the ODIs during their recent tour of West Indies in Rohit Sharma's absence and will now act as Rahul's deputy for the Zimbabwe series, which kicks off on August 18.

It is believed that Rahul was roped in, as soon as he was declared fully fit, as the right-hander hasn't played an international since early 2022. Before the Asia Cup and T20 World Cup, the selectors and team management are keen on giving some much-needed game time to the dashing opener.
</section>

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) roped in KL Rahul in India's squad for the tour of Zimbabwe, where a second-stringed side will play three ODIs. While announcing Rahul's presence for the African tour, BCCI also named him the captain; removing Shikhar Dhawan from the post.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) roped in KL Rahul in India's squad for the tour of Zimbabwe, where a second-stringed side will play three ODIs. While announcing Rahul's presence for the African tour, BCCI also named him the captain; removing Shikhar Dhawan from the post. Initially, Dhawan was named in-charge of the second-stringed side for the Zimbabwe series. However, with Rahul regaining fitness -- coming from a sports hernia surgery and Covid-19 -- the board announced the regular white-ball vice-captain as the leader for the Zimbabwe tour. Former Indian stumper Saba Karim has now opened up on this sudden change in leadership and remains unimpressed. “KL Rahul should have played the series only as a member, making him captain or vice-captain is not that important. He is coming after a long break. Shikhar Dhawan is a senior member of the squad who has delivered in white-ball cricket. You have to give him importance once you make the announcement as captain," Karim was quoted as saying by India News Sports. “I would like to add that Shikhar led the side very well against West Indies in the ODI series. He was also decent with the bat. India whitewashed the series with a bunch of youngsters. A lot of them performed very well under his captaincy. Dhawan looked in complete control, whether it was the field setup, tactics, or strategy. He inspired the youngsters as a leader," the former chief selector added. ALSO READ | Asia Cup: Will Pakistan make it 3-0 vs India on facing them thrice? Babar Azam answers journalist's query “The kind of change in captaincy trend is strange and questionable. Such decisions need to be taken very cautiously. There is no need to rush as it is associated with a team environment, you need to build the team spirit. A captain begins to think about his plans for upcoming matches and then you suddenly make a change. It affects the morale of the cricketer," said Karim. Dhawan had led India in the ODIs during their recent tour of West Indies in Rohit Sharma's absence and will now act as Rahul's deputy for the Zimbabwe series, which kicks off on August 18. It is believed that Rahul was roped in, as soon as he was declared fully fit, as the right-hander hasn't played an international since early 2022. Before the Asia Cup and T20 World Cup, the selectors and team management are keen on giving some much-needed game time to the dashing opener.

'Making him captain or....' - Ex-India stumper on Rahul replacing Dhawan as skipper for Zimbabwe tour

Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has set aside a window in March 2023 for the first-ever edition of women's Indian Premier League (IPL) and the process to get the show on the road is underway, as per board president Sourav Ganguly. As per ESPNCricinfo, the board has made changes to its women's domestic cricket calendar to make way for women's IPL.

The women's season that generally goes on from November to April has been advanced by a month, with the season set to begin on October 11 with T20 competition and end in February 2023 with an inter-zonal ODI competition.

Since 2018, BCCI has been organising the Women's T20 Challenge. What started as a one-off exhibition match between two teams in the first season is now a three-team competition. Many players from outside India have also joined the competition. But despite this, the clamour to have a much bigger competition just like men's IPL is growing among players and fans for a while.

Earlier in February this year, Ganguly had stated that the women's IPL would be held next year. "We are at the level of formulation to have a full-fledged WIPL. It is certainly going to happen. I strongly believe that next year i.e. 2023 will be a very good time to start a full-fledged women's IPL which will be as big and grand a success as men's IPL. 
 
Owners of IPL franchise Rajasthan Royals and Barbados Royals, The Knight Riders Group have expressed their interest in getting involved in the tournament and owning a women's IPL team.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cwg-2022-final-harmanpreet-smriti-co-in-splits-as-yastika-bhatia-slips-while-coming-out-to-bat-watch-504805">CWG 2022 final: Harmanpreet, Smriti &amp; Co. in splits as Yastika Bhatia slips while coming out to bat - WATCH</a>

The inaugural edition of the women's Caribbean Premier League (CPL), which is scheduled to happen alongside the men's tournament later this year will feature three teams, including Trinbago Knight Riders owned by Knight Riders Group. BCCI is expected to hold a discussion on matters related to women's IPL at its annual general meeting in September this year. Much of the planning around the tournament will be around sale of its media rights.

Due to India's improving and great performances at major ICC events over the recent years, the enthusiasm for women's cricket in India is at a never-seen-before high. The latest of these performances was the Women in Blue clinching a silver medal in the recently-concluded Commonwealth Games 2022 in Birmingham. Moreover, senior Indian players like Smriti Mandhana, Harmanpreet Kaur and former Indian skipper Mithali Raj have been supportive of the idea of women's IPL.

Raj in fact expressed a desire to come out of retirement to participate in the tournament. "I am keeping that option open. I have not yet decided. There are a few more months to go before the Women's IPL happens. It would be lovely to be part of the first edition of the Women's IPL," she had said while speaking on ICC's 100% Cricket podcast earlier in July.

Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has set aside a window in March 2023 for the first-ever edition of women's Indian Premier League (IPL) and the process to get the show on the road is underway, as per board president Sourav Ganguly.

Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has set aside a window in March 2023 for the first-ever edition of women's Indian Premier League (IPL) and the process to get the show on the road is underway, as per board president Sourav Ganguly. As per ESPNCricinfo, the board has made changes to its women's domestic cricket calendar to make way for women's IPL. The women's season that generally goes on from November to April has been advanced by a month, with the season set to begin on October 11 with T20 competition and end in February 2023 with an inter-zonal ODI competition. Since 2018, BCCI has been organising the Women's T20 Challenge. What started as a one-off exhibition match between two teams in the first season is now a three-team competition. Many players from outside India have also joined the competition. But despite this, the clamour to have a much bigger competition just like men's IPL is growing among players and fans for a while. Earlier in February this year, Ganguly had stated that the women's IPL would be held next year. "We are at the level of formulation to have a full-fledged WIPL. It is certainly going to happen. I strongly believe that next year i.e. 2023 will be a very good time to start a full-fledged women's IPL which will be as big and grand a success as men's IPL. Owners of IPL franchise Rajasthan Royals and Barbados Royals, The Knight Riders Group have expressed their interest in getting involved in the tournament and owning a women's IPL team. ALSO READ | CWG 2022 final: Harmanpreet, Smriti & Co. in splits as Yastika Bhatia slips while coming out to bat - WATCH The inaugural edition of the women's Caribbean Premier League (CPL), which is scheduled to happen alongside the men's tournament later this year will feature three teams, including Trinbago Knight Riders owned by Knight Riders Group. BCCI is expected to hold a discussion on matters related to women's IPL at its annual general meeting in September this year. Much of the planning around the tournament will be around sale of its media rights. Due to India's improving and great performances at major ICC events over the recent years, the enthusiasm for women's cricket in India is at a never-seen-before high. The latest of these performances was the Women in Blue clinching a silver medal in the recently-concluded Commonwealth Games 2022 in Birmingham. Moreover, senior Indian players like Smriti Mandhana, Harmanpreet Kaur and former Indian skipper Mithali Raj have been supportive of the idea of women's IPL. Raj in fact expressed a desire to come out of retirement to participate in the tournament. "I am keeping that option open. I have not yet decided. There are a few more months to go before the Women's IPL happens. It would be lovely to be part of the first edition of the Women's IPL," she had said while speaking on ICC's 100% Cricket podcast earlier in July.

BCCI keeps window in March 2023 for first-ever Women's IPL

Virat Kohli and vice-captain KL Rahul have returned to the Indian team as the BCCI has announced a 15-member squad for the forthcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition, which will get underway in the UAE from August 27.&nbsp;

The Rohit Sharma-led Indian squad sees the comeback of Kohli, who missed the entire West Indies tour due to rest, whereas opener Rahul has also returned after suffering a groin injury and being infected by Covid-19. Meanwhile, the defending champions have been dealt with a huge blow as their premier pacer Jasprit Bumrah has been ruled out.

In a tweet from the official handle of the BCCI, it wrote, "Jasprit Bumrah and Harshal Patel were not available for selection owing to injuries. They are currently undergoing rehab at the NCA in Bengaluru."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-rohit-sharma-gives-inspiring-speech-after-india-end-west-indies-tour-with-4-1-win-in-t20is-504788">WATCH: Rohit Sharma gives inspiring speech after India end West Indies tour with 4-1 win in T20Is</a>

Thus, India will go with three frontline seamers in the form of Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Arshdeep Singh, Avesh Khan with all-rounder Hardik Pandya being the fourth pacer. Thus, all the onus will be on Bhuvi's shoulders whereas Rohit &amp; Co. will hope for Hardik to provide regular breakthroughs. Among the main batters, Rohit, Suryakumar Yadav, Rahul, Kohli, wicketkeeper-batters Rishabh Pant, Dinesh Karthik and Hardik will spearhead the department.

Hardik, Deepak Hooda, Ravindra Jadeja, R Ashwin are the main all-rounders. The spin department will be headed by Ashwin, Jaddu, Yuzvendra Chahal, Ravi Bishnoi whereas Hooda can also chip in with a few overs of spin. There are also three standby players such as Shreyas Iyer, Deepak Chahar and Axar Patel (who had a terrific tour of West Indies).

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/where-should-virat-kohli-bat-ex-indian-stumper-shares-his-preferred-slot-for-star-batter-ahead-of-asia-cup-504872">Where should Virat Kohli bat? Ex-Indian stumper shares his preferred slot for star batter ahead of Asia Cup</a>

Squad: Rohit Sharma (c), KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Dinesh Karthik, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, R. Ashwin, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Arshdeep Singh, Ravi Bishnoi, Avesh Khan, Deepak Hooda, Yuzvendra Chahal

Stand-by players:&nbsp;Shreyas Iyer, Axar Patel and Deepak Chahar have been named as standbys.

Virat Kohli and vice-captain KL Rahul have returned to the Indian team as the BCCI has announced a 15-member squad for the forthcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition, which will get underway in the UAE from August 27.

Virat Kohli and vice-captain KL Rahul have returned to the Indian team as the BCCI has announced a 15-member squad for the forthcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition, which will get underway in the UAE from August 27. The Rohit Sharma-led Indian squad sees the comeback of Kohli, who missed the entire West Indies tour due to rest, whereas opener Rahul has also returned after suffering a groin injury and being infected by Covid-19. Meanwhile, the defending champions have been dealt with a huge blow as their premier pacer Jasprit Bumrah has been ruled out. In a tweet from the official handle of the BCCI, it wrote, "Jasprit Bumrah and Harshal Patel were not available for selection owing to injuries. They are currently undergoing rehab at the NCA in Bengaluru." ALSO READ | WATCH: Rohit Sharma gives inspiring speech after India end West Indies tour with 4-1 win in T20Is Thus, India will go with three frontline seamers in the form of Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Arshdeep Singh, Avesh Khan with all-rounder Hardik Pandya being the fourth pacer. Thus, all the onus will be on Bhuvi's shoulders whereas Rohit & Co. will hope for Hardik to provide regular breakthroughs. Among the main batters, Rohit, Suryakumar Yadav, Rahul, Kohli, wicketkeeper-batters Rishabh Pant, Dinesh Karthik and Hardik will spearhead the department. Hardik, Deepak Hooda, Ravindra Jadeja, R Ashwin are the main all-rounders. The spin department will be headed by Ashwin, Jaddu, Yuzvendra Chahal, Ravi Bishnoi whereas Hooda can also chip in with a few overs of spin. There are also three standby players such as Shreyas Iyer, Deepak Chahar and Axar Patel (who had a terrific tour of West Indies). ALSO READ | Where should Virat Kohli bat? Ex-Indian stumper shares his preferred slot for star batter ahead of Asia Cup Squad: Rohit Sharma (c), KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Dinesh Karthik, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, R. Ashwin, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Arshdeep Singh, Ravi Bishnoi, Avesh Khan, Deepak Hooda, Yuzvendra Chahal Stand-by players: Shreyas Iyer, Axar Patel and Deepak Chahar have been named as standbys.

Virat Kohli, KL Rahul return in Jasprit Bumrah-less Team India squad for Asia Cup 2022

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