Team India's Test squad for the forthcoming home series versus Sri Lanka was revealed on Saturday (February 19). The squad news made heads turn as the national selectors announced Rohit Sharma as the new Test captain, making him India's full-time skipper, whereas senior pros such as Cheteshwar Pujara, Ishant Sharma, Ajinkya Rahane and Wriddhiman Saha failed to make the cut.

Saha's omission made maximum noise&nbsp;as the veteran keeper-batter made some explosive claims post his exclusion. In an interview with Sportstar, the 37-year-old wicketkeeper claimed that head coach Rahul Dravid had told him that the team management is not considering him for future series -- after the South Africa Tests -- as they want to groom a young KS Bharat as the second keeper-batter after Rishabh Pant.

Further, Saha also revealed that he was assured of his place in the Test side by BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly post the first Test between India and New Zealand at Kanpur, in late 2021. Now, Ganguly's brother Snehashish Ganguly -- who is also the secretary of&nbsp;Cricket Association of Bengal's (CAB) -- feels Saha shouldn't have disclosed private chats from BCCI officials, head coach and chief&nbsp;selector.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shouldnt-be-different-selection-criteria-for-different-people-wriddhiman-sahas-coach-on-dravids-remark-455114">Shouldn't be different selection criteria for different people: Wriddhiman Saha's coach on Dravid's remark</a>

“This is my personal opinion, but what was communicated to him (Saha) by the chief selector/BCCI was private. He probably shouldn’t have gone public with that. Also, he could have played the Ranji Trophy. He cited personal reasons for pulling out and we have to respect that. The door is always open for him, whenever he wants to join the squad,” said Snehashish in a press conference.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-to-investigate-journalists-threat-messages-to-wriddhiman-saha-will-take-action-against-guilty-report-454987">BCCI to investigate journalist's threat messages to Wriddhiman Saha, will take action against guilty - Report</a>

After his claims on Dravid and Ganguly, Saha also dropped a bomb by exposing a journalist who was threatening him after the former didn't entertain his interview requests. Since then, many&nbsp;former cricketers have supported Saha as BCCI is reportedly investigating the whole case.

Saha isn't a part of Bengal's squad in the ongoing Ranji Trophy 2021/22 edition -- due to personal reasons -- and will next be seen for Gujarat Titans (GT) in IPL 2022.

Team India's Test squad for the forthcoming home series versus Sri Lanka was revealed on Saturday (February 19). The squad news made heads turn as the national selectors announced Rohit Sharma as the new Test captain, making him India's full-time skipper, whereas senior pros such as Cheteshwar Pujara, Ishant Sharma, Ajinkya Rahane and Wriddhiman Saha failed to make the cut.

Team India's Test squad for the forthcoming home series versus Sri Lanka was revealed on Saturday (February 19). The squad news made heads turn as the national selectors announced Rohit Sharma as the new Test captain, making him India's full-time skipper, whereas senior pros such as Cheteshwar Pujara, Ishant Sharma, Ajinkya Rahane and Wriddhiman Saha failed to make the cut. Saha's omission made maximum noise as the veteran keeper-batter made some explosive claims post his exclusion. In an interview with Sportstar, the 37-year-old wicketkeeper claimed that head coach Rahul Dravid had told him that the team management is not considering him for future series -- after the South Africa Tests -- as they want to groom a young KS Bharat as the second keeper-batter after Rishabh Pant. Further, Saha also revealed that he was assured of his place in the Test side by BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly post the first Test between India and New Zealand at Kanpur, in late 2021. Now, Ganguly's brother Snehashish Ganguly -- who is also the secretary of Cricket Association of Bengal's (CAB) -- feels Saha shouldn't have disclosed private chats from BCCI officials, head coach and chief selector. ALSO READ | Shouldn't be different selection criteria for different people: Wriddhiman Saha's coach on Dravid's remark “This is my personal opinion, but what was communicated to him (Saha) by the chief selector/BCCI was private. He probably shouldn’t have gone public with that. Also, he could have played the Ranji Trophy. He cited personal reasons for pulling out and we have to respect that. The door is always open for him, whenever he wants to join the squad,” said Snehashish in a press conference. ALSO READ | BCCI to investigate journalist's threat messages to Wriddhiman Saha, will take action against guilty - Report After his claims on Dravid and Ganguly, Saha also dropped a bomb by exposing a journalist who was threatening him after the former didn't entertain his interview requests. Since then, many former cricketers have supported Saha as BCCI is reportedly investigating the whole case. Saha isn't a part of Bengal's squad in the ongoing Ranji Trophy 2021/22 edition -- due to personal reasons -- and will next be seen for Gujarat Titans (GT) in IPL 2022.

Saha shouldn’t have gone public with communication from chief selector, BCCI, says Ganguly's brother

India's Test squad for the forthcoming home series versus Sri Lanka was announced on Saturday (February 19). Among the notable omissions, senior pros Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Wriddhiman Saha and Ishant Sharma's absence made heads turn.

While Pujara-Rahane are busy in the ongoing Ranji Trophy 2021/22 edition, Saha's future seems to be, more or less, sealed after the 37-year-old wicketkeeper-batter revealed his chat with head coach Rahul Dravid. Saha mentioned that Dravid had a conversation with him, where he revealed that the national side is looking at KS Bharat as the second keeper-batter to Rishabh Pant and not him. In addition, he suggested Saha&nbsp;take a call on his future.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dravid-suggested-retirement-ganguly-assured-test-spot-wriddhiman-saha-makes-explosive-revelations-454719">Dravid suggested retirement, Ganguly assured Test spot: Wriddhiman Saha makes explosive revelations</a>

Following Dravid's remark, Saha's childhood coach Jayant&nbsp;Bhowmik told India Today, "Rahul Dravid is a gentleman. I have heard what he has said. It's alright. But then, even now Indian team has players who are in their late 30s. Everyone knows that Wriddhiman Saha is still No.1 wicketkeeper in the world. Then, what is the problem?"

He further asserted, "There should not be different criteria for different people when it comes to selection. That's unfair. How can this happen? I spoke to Wriddhiman Saha this morning. He is mentally very strong. His mental strength won't be affected because of all this. He is exceptional.

"But what hurts me is Saha is someone who loves the sport, contributed so much to his country and sport but he has been left out without a proper criterion," Jayanta added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-hurt-by-wriddhiman-sahas-comments-he-deserved-honesty-and-clarity-about-his-position-rahul-dravid-454972">Not hurt by Wriddhiman Saha's comments, he deserved honesty and clarity about his position: Rahul Dravid</a>

Not being a part of the Ranji season for Bengal, due to personal reasons, it will be difficult for Saha to reclaim his spot in whites. Meanwhile, Rohit Sharma-led India are gearing up for three T20Is versus Sri Lanka before the action moves to the two Tests, starting on March 4.

India's Test squad for the forthcoming home series versus Sri Lanka was announced on Saturday (February 19). Among the notable omissions, senior pros Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Wriddhiman Saha and Ishant Sharma's absence made heads turn.

India's Test squad for the forthcoming home series versus Sri Lanka was announced on Saturday (February 19). Among the notable omissions, senior pros Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Wriddhiman Saha and Ishant Sharma's absence made heads turn. While Pujara-Rahane are busy in the ongoing Ranji Trophy 2021/22 edition, Saha's future seems to be, more or less, sealed after the 37-year-old wicketkeeper-batter revealed his chat with head coach Rahul Dravid. Saha mentioned that Dravid had a conversation with him, where he revealed that the national side is looking at KS Bharat as the second keeper-batter to Rishabh Pant and not him. In addition, he suggested Saha take a call on his future. ALSO READ | Dravid suggested retirement, Ganguly assured Test spot: Wriddhiman Saha makes explosive revelations Following Dravid's remark, Saha's childhood coach Jayant Bhowmik told India Today, "Rahul Dravid is a gentleman. I have heard what he has said. It's alright. But then, even now Indian team has players who are in their late 30s. Everyone knows that Wriddhiman Saha is still No.1 wicketkeeper in the world. Then, what is the problem?" He further asserted, "There should not be different criteria for different people when it comes to selection. That's unfair. How can this happen? I spoke to Wriddhiman Saha this morning. He is mentally very strong. His mental strength won't be affected because of all this. He is exceptional. "But what hurts me is Saha is someone who loves the sport, contributed so much to his country and sport but he has been left out without a proper criterion," Jayanta added. ALSO READ | Not hurt by Wriddhiman Saha's comments, he deserved honesty and clarity about his position: Rahul Dravid Not being a part of the Ranji season for Bengal, due to personal reasons, it will be difficult for Saha to reclaim his spot in whites. Meanwhile, Rohit Sharma-led India are gearing up for three T20Is versus Sri Lanka before the action moves to the two Tests, starting on March 4.

Shouldn't be different selection criteria for different people: Wriddhiman Saha's coach on Dravid's remark

Sri Lanka Cricket's selection committee on Monday announced the squad for the upcoming T20I series against India.

The three-match T20I series will kick start on February 24 in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. Ramesh Mendis, Nuwan Thushara, and Ramesh Mendis will be missing the series due to the injuries sustained in the Australian tour.

Earlier this week, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced a new schedule for India's upcoming home series against Sri Lanka.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-pacer-deepak-chahar-sustains-hamstring-injury-doubtful-for-series-against-sri-lanka-454985">India Pacer Deepak Chahar sustains hamstring injury, doubtful for series against Sri Lanka</a>

The tour was supposed to start with the two-match Test, but now will begin with T20Is, with the first match being played at the Ekana Stadium in Lucknow on February 24.

The second and third T20Is will take place in Dharamsala on February 26 and 27. Following the T20I series, the teams will play two Tests, which form a part of the 2021-23 ICC World Test Championship cycle.

Mohali will host the first Test from March 4 to 8, while the second Test will be played in Bengaluru from March 12 to 16.

The first Test will be former captain Virat Kohli's 100th Test match, while the second Test will be a day/night affair.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-creates-new-captaincy-record-as-india-complete-3-0-whitewash-aganst-west-indies-in-t20is-454965">Rohit Sharma creates new captaincy record as India complete 3-0 whitewash aganst West Indies in T20Is</a>

Sri Lanka squad: Dasun Shanaka (c), Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Charith Asalanka, Dinesh Chandimal, Danushka Gunathilaka, Kamil Mishara, Janith Liyanage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dushmantha Chameera, Lahiru Kumara, Binura Fernando, Shiran Fernando, Maheesh Theekshana, Jeffrey Vandersay, Praveen Jayawickrama, Ashian Daniel (subject to ministerial approval).

Sri Lanka Cricket's selection committee on Monday announced the squad for the upcoming T20I series against India. The three-match T20I series will kick start on February 24 in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh.

Sri Lanka Cricket's selection committee on Monday announced the squad for the upcoming T20I series against India. The three-match T20I series will kick start on February 24 in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. Ramesh Mendis, Nuwan Thushara, and Ramesh Mendis will be missing the series due to the injuries sustained in the Australian tour. Earlier this week, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced a new schedule for India's upcoming home series against Sri Lanka. ALSO READ: India Pacer Deepak Chahar sustains hamstring injury, doubtful for series against Sri Lanka The tour was supposed to start with the two-match Test, but now will begin with T20Is, with the first match being played at the Ekana Stadium in Lucknow on February 24. The second and third T20Is will take place in Dharamsala on February 26 and 27. Following the T20I series, the teams will play two Tests, which form a part of the 2021-23 ICC World Test Championship cycle. Mohali will host the first Test from March 4 to 8, while the second Test will be played in Bengaluru from March 12 to 16. The first Test will be former captain Virat Kohli's 100th Test match, while the second Test will be a day/night affair. ALSO READ: Rohit Sharma creates new captaincy record as India complete 3-0 whitewash aganst West Indies in T20Is Sri Lanka squad: Dasun Shanaka (c), Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Charith Asalanka, Dinesh Chandimal, Danushka Gunathilaka, Kamil Mishara, Janith Liyanage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dushmantha Chameera, Lahiru Kumara, Binura Fernando, Shiran Fernando, Maheesh Theekshana, Jeffrey Vandersay, Praveen Jayawickrama, Ashian Daniel (subject to ministerial approval).

Avishka Fernando, Ramesh Mendis ruled out as Sri Lanka announce squad for T20I series against India

Senior India wicket-keeper batter Wriddhiman Saha recently exposed a 'respected journalist' on Twitter by sharing a screenshot of insulting messages he received from the person after denying an interview. Saha was dropped from India's Test squad for the upcoming two-match series against Sri Lanka at home as the selectors announced the squad last week.

Following his exclusion from the squad, Saha went on to make some explosive claims regarding the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly and current India head coach Rahul Dravid. The BCCI has now decided to conduct a 'thorough investigation' into Saha's recent comments and his tweet revealing threatening messages from a journalist.

In the screenshot shared by Saha on Twitter, the journalist can be seen making insulting comments against the senior cricketer. Ever since his post went viral, Saha has received immense support from the cricket fraternity with a number of former cricketers urging him to expose the so-called journalist.

As per a report in the Times of India, BCCI is calling for a 'thorough investigation' in the matter as Saha is a contracted cricketer and the board doesn't want to let it's player down. The BCCI will also investigate the wicket-keeper batter's comments about receiving messages of assurance from board president Sourav Ganguly.

"Saha is a contracted cricketer of the BCCI. The onus is on the Board to not let its own player down. That aside, if there is any kind of a nexus at work here, one has to look into it," officials tracking the development told TOI.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/time-for-sourav-ganguly-to-step-in-ravi-shastri-shocked-as-wriddhiman-saha-threatened-by-a-journalist-454956">Time for Sourav Ganguly to step in: Ravi Shastri 'shocked' as Saha threatened by a journalist</a>

As per the report, the BCCI will approach Saha for the WhatsApp messages and a forensic investigation will be conducted. If the person who sent the messages is found to be an actual journalist covering Indian cricket, he will be banned by the board. The board is also determined to find out if there are other cricketers who have had to go through similar situations.

"If the sender of those messages indeed happens to be a journalist covering Indian cricket, the Board will take steps towards banning him. It is also important to see if anybody else has gone through this," an official was quoted as saying by TOI.

The board official also stated that BCCI president Ganguly's comments will be investigated as well. The official questioned in what capacity did the BCCI president gave assurance to a player about his spot in the Indian Test team.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dravid-suggested-retirement-ganguly-assured-test-spot-wriddhiman-saha-makes-explosive-revelations-454719">Dravid suggested retirement, Ganguly assured Test spot: Wriddhiman Saha makes explosive revelations</a>

"The Rahul Dravid-bit is understandable. He's the national coach and may have wanted to keep his players in the loop. That's between the coach and the players. What was the need for a BCCI official to speak with Saha and assure him of a place in the side? 'I don't need to worry till he's there'. Kitni galat baat hai yeh (How wrong it is to say something like this)," officials told TOI.

In an interview with ESPNCricinfo, Saha revealed he had received a congratulatory message from Ganguly after his 61-run knock in the first Test against New Zealand in Kanpur, in November last year. The wicket-keeper batter claimed that Ganguly had assured him that his spot in the Test side is safe till the time he is the president of BCCI.

"The biggest shock was that when I scored 61 against New Zealand in Kanpur despite being injured, Dadi (as BCCI president Sourav Ganguly is referred to), texted to congratulate me and said I didn't need to worry about anything till he is there. Naturally, I was shocked at what I was told immediately one series after," Saha, who was dropped from the Test squad on Saturday, told ESPNCricinfo.

Senior India wicket-keeper batter Wriddhiman Saha recently exposed a 'respected journalist' on Twitter by sharing a screenshot of insulting messages he received from the person after denying an interview.

Senior India wicket-keeper batter Wriddhiman Saha recently exposed a 'respected journalist' on Twitter by sharing a screenshot of insulting messages he received from the person after denying an interview. Saha was dropped from India's Test squad for the upcoming two-match series against Sri Lanka at home as the selectors announced the squad last week. Following his exclusion from the squad, Saha went on to make some explosive claims regarding the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly and current India head coach Rahul Dravid. The BCCI has now decided to conduct a 'thorough investigation' into Saha's recent comments and his tweet revealing threatening messages from a journalist. In the screenshot shared by Saha on Twitter, the journalist can be seen making insulting comments against the senior cricketer. Ever since his post went viral, Saha has received immense support from the cricket fraternity with a number of former cricketers urging him to expose the so-called journalist. As per a report in the Times of India, BCCI is calling for a 'thorough investigation' in the matter as Saha is a contracted cricketer and the board doesn't want to let it's player down. The BCCI will also investigate the wicket-keeper batter's comments about receiving messages of assurance from board president Sourav Ganguly. "Saha is a contracted cricketer of the BCCI. The onus is on the Board to not let its own player down. That aside, if there is any kind of a nexus at work here, one has to look into it," officials tracking the development told TOI. Also Read: Time for Sourav Ganguly to step in: Ravi Shastri 'shocked' as Saha threatened by a journalist As per the report, the BCCI will approach Saha for the WhatsApp messages and a forensic investigation will be conducted. If the person who sent the messages is found to be an actual journalist covering Indian cricket, he will be banned by the board. The board is also determined to find out if there are other cricketers who have had to go through similar situations. "If the sender of those messages indeed happens to be a journalist covering Indian cricket, the Board will take steps towards banning him. It is also important to see if anybody else has gone through this," an official was quoted as saying by TOI. The board official also stated that BCCI president Ganguly's comments will be investigated as well. The official questioned in what capacity did the BCCI president gave assurance to a player about his spot in the Indian Test team. Also Read: Dravid suggested retirement, Ganguly assured Test spot: Wriddhiman Saha makes explosive revelations "The Rahul Dravid-bit is understandable. He's the national coach and may have wanted to keep his players in the loop. That's between the coach and the players. What was the need for a BCCI official to speak with Saha and assure him of a place in the side? 'I don't need to worry till he's there'. Kitni galat baat hai yeh (How wrong it is to say something like this)," officials told TOI. In an interview with ESPNCricinfo, Saha revealed he had received a congratulatory message from Ganguly after his 61-run knock in the first Test against New Zealand in Kanpur, in November last year. The wicket-keeper batter claimed that Ganguly had assured him that his spot in the Test side is safe till the time he is the president of BCCI. "The biggest shock was that when I scored 61 against New Zealand in Kanpur despite being injured, Dadi (as BCCI president Sourav Ganguly is referred to), texted to congratulate me and said I didn't need to worry about anything till he is there. Naturally, I was shocked at what I was told immediately one series after," Saha, who was dropped from the Test squad on Saturday, told ESPNCricinfo.

BCCI to investigate journalist's threat messages to Wriddhiman Saha, will take action against guilty - Report

Former India head coach Ravi Shastri has urged the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly to dive in and extend his support towards senior wicket-keeper batter Wriddhiman Saha, who was recently threatened by a 'journalist'. Shastri said it was shocking to see a player being threatened by a journalist and urged Ganguly to find out who the person is to protect the interest of other players.

Saha on Saturday had shared a screenshot of a conversation between him and a journalist on his official Twitter account. In the chat, the journalist can be seen telling Saha that he doesn't take 'insults kindly' after being seemingly denied an interview by the wicket-keeper batter.

Sharing the screenshot of the chat on Twitter, Saha wrote - "After all of my contributions to Indian cricket..this is what I face from a so-called “Respected” journalist! This is where the journalism has gone." Ever since he shared the post, the cricket fraternity has united to extend their support to Saha.

A number of former cricketers including the likes of Virender Sehwag, Harbhajan Singh and RP Singh among others have expressed their support for Saha and urged him to name and shame the so-called journalist. Shastri too reacted to Saha's post on Sunday and expressed his shock.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-will-not-be-considered-wriddhiman-saha-reveals-what-chief-selector-messaged-him-before-test-axe-454884">'You will not be considered': Saha reveals what chief selector messaged him before Test axe</a>

"Shocking a player being threatened by a journo. Blatant position abuse. Something that's happening too frequently with #TeamIndia. Time for the BCCI PREZ to dive in. Find out who the person is in the interest of every cricketer. This is serious coming from ultimate team man WS," Shastri wrote in a tweet.

Saha was dropped from India's Test squad for the upcoming two-match series against Sri Lanka at home. The Chetan Sharma-led selection panel announced the squad on Saturday leaving out Saha and three other senior players - Ajinkya Rahane, Cheteshwar Pujara and Ishant Sharma.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dravid-suggested-retirement-ganguly-assured-test-spot-wriddhiman-saha-makes-explosive-revelations-454719">Dravid suggested retirement, Ganguly assured Test spot:&nbsp;Saha makes explosive revelations</a>

Saha went on to reveal that he had been told by India head coach Rahul Dravid that he was no more in the team's plans going forward and should consider retirement. After their conversation went public, head coach Dravid was asked about the same after India's 3-0 win in the T20I series against West Indies on Sunday.

Dravid said he was not at all hurt by Saha's comments and that he always respected the wicket-keeper's contributions towards the team. Dravid also stated that Saha deserved honesty and clarity from his side.

"I am not actually hurt at all, I have deep respect for Wriddhiman Saha and his achievements and his contribution to Indian cricket. My conversation with him came from that place, I just felt that he deserved honesty and clarity. I did not want him to learn about it from the media," said Dravid in a press conference.

Former India head coach Ravi Shastri has urged the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly to dive in and extend his support towards senior wicket-keeper batter Wriddhiman Saha, who was recently threatened by a 'journalist'.

Former India head coach Ravi Shastri has urged the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly to dive in and extend his support towards senior wicket-keeper batter Wriddhiman Saha, who was recently threatened by a 'journalist'. Shastri said it was shocking to see a player being threatened by a journalist and urged Ganguly to find out who the person is to protect the interest of other players. Saha on Saturday had shared a screenshot of a conversation between him and a journalist on his official Twitter account. In the chat, the journalist can be seen telling Saha that he doesn't take 'insults kindly' after being seemingly denied an interview by the wicket-keeper batter. Sharing the screenshot of the chat on Twitter, Saha wrote - "After all of my contributions to Indian cricket..this is what I face from a so-called “Respected” journalist! This is where the journalism has gone." Ever since he shared the post, the cricket fraternity has united to extend their support to Saha. A number of former cricketers including the likes of Virender Sehwag, Harbhajan Singh and RP Singh among others have expressed their support for Saha and urged him to name and shame the so-called journalist. Shastri too reacted to Saha's post on Sunday and expressed his shock. Also Read: 'You will not be considered': Saha reveals what chief selector messaged him before Test axe "Shocking a player being threatened by a journo. Blatant position abuse. Something that's happening too frequently with #TeamIndia. Time for the BCCI PREZ to dive in. Find out who the person is in the interest of every cricketer. This is serious coming from ultimate team man WS," Shastri wrote in a tweet. Saha was dropped from India's Test squad for the upcoming two-match series against Sri Lanka at home. The Chetan Sharma-led selection panel announced the squad on Saturday leaving out Saha and three other senior players - Ajinkya Rahane, Cheteshwar Pujara and Ishant Sharma. Also Read: Dravid suggested retirement, Ganguly assured Test spot: Saha makes explosive revelations Saha went on to reveal that he had been told by India head coach Rahul Dravid that he was no more in the team's plans going forward and should consider retirement. After their conversation went public, head coach Dravid was asked about the same after India's 3-0 win in the T20I series against West Indies on Sunday. Dravid said he was not at all hurt by Saha's comments and that he always respected the wicket-keeper's contributions towards the team. Dravid also stated that Saha deserved honesty and clarity from his side. "I am not actually hurt at all, I have deep respect for Wriddhiman Saha and his achievements and his contribution to Indian cricket. My conversation with him came from that place, I just felt that he deserved honesty and clarity. I did not want him to learn about it from the media," said Dravid in a press conference.

Time for Sourav Ganguly to step in: Ravi Shastri 'shocked' as Wriddhiman Saha threatened by a journalist

Amazon's rivalry in India with oil-to-retail conglomerate Reliance Industries looks set to head to the cricket field, where they will likely battle media heavyweights for telecast rights to India's premier cricket league with its hundreds of millions of viewers.

Amazon.com Inc and Reliance Industries Ltd are expected to take on India units of Sony Group Corp and Walt Disney Co for exclusive five-year TV and digital broadcast rights to the two-month series of matches, at a cost that could run to a record 500 billion rupees ($6.7 billion), sources familiar with the companies'&nbsp;plans said.

"Cricket is the second-biggest sport in the world with two-and-a-half billion fans and IPL is like its Super Bowl," said Anton Rublievskyi, head of Parimatch, a betting company that advertised at the Indian Premier League (IPL) last year.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-application-of-mind-former-selector-questions-gaikwad-sarfarazs-non-selection-in-indias-test-squad-454825">'No application of mind': Former selector questions Gaikwad, Sarfaraz's non-selection in India's Test squad</a>

"If you're not there, you do not exist."

Disney-owned Star India, which is one of the top broadcasters in India along with Sony and its planned acquisition Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd, paid 163.48 billion rupees for the digital and television rights until 2022.

The league's matches reached 350 million viewers during the first half of the 2021 season alone.

But traditional media firms now face stiff competition from deep-pocketed rivals like Reliance, India's biggest retailer, and Amazon, two billionaire-led behemoths competing for the fast-growing e-commerce market while building up their digital platforms.&nbsp;

Amazon and Reliance are already locked in a pitched courtroom battle over the acquisiton of assets of Future Group, another big India retailer.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kusal-mendis-dasun-shanaka-star-as-sri-lanka-win-5th-t20i-against-australia-by-5-wickets-454798">Kusal Mendis, Dasun Shanaka star as Sri Lanka win 5th T20I against Australia by 5 wickets</a>

Reliance is also in talks with investors, including foreigners, to raise up to $1.6 billion for its broadcasting joint venture, Viacom18.

"Winning this bid is critical to Reliance's long-term plans for its Jio platform and its digital expansion," said a source with direct knowledge of the company's strategy.

"Everything that has happened at Viacom18 in the last few months, like buying rights to the Spanish La Liga and setting up a sports channel, has been building up to this," the source said.

Reliance and Viacom18 did not respond to requests for comment.

Amazon, whose Prime Video platform recently began live-streaming cricket matches, wants to win the IPL rights to expand the platform's user base, another industry source familiar with the company's thinking said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/csk-will-try-to-get-him-back-no-one-will-expect-us-how-rcb-planned-faf-du-plessis-signing-at-ipl-auction-454816">'CSK will try to get him back, no one will expect us': How RCB planned Faf du Plessis' signing at IPL auction</a>

An Amazon India spokesperson did not respond to a request for comment.

The company lacks a TV platform and would need to bring in a TV partner or could only bid for the digital portion.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), which runs the tender, awarded it in 2017 to a consolidated TV and digital bid from Star, which surpassed any of the combined individual bids.

Industry sources expect flexibility from the BCCI given the prospects for record payments by bidders including a deep-pocketed digital-only player like Amazon.

BCCI secretary Jay Shah, in an interview with Reuters, said the board had studied various models and proposals but he did not comment on details or the likely dollar value of the bids.

"We will do our best to derive the right value a tournament like the IPL deserves," he said.

Among the media majors, Disney India did not respond to a request for comment but Disney CEO Bob Chapek told a recent earnings teleconference that the company was confident of achieving its subscriber targets in India even without IPL rights.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-yuzi-chahal-leaves-irfan-chopra-in-splits-on-being-asked-about-bishnois-dropped-catch-off-his-bowling-454631">WATCH: Yuzi Chahal leaves Irfan, Chopra in splits on being asked about Bishnoi's dropped catch off his bowling</a>

Sony's India entertainment unit said it would evaluate bids for both broadcast and digital rights.

Some in the industry however, are questioning the sharp rise in the cost of the rights and whether it is sustainable.

"The IPL has got to a stage where it's now too big to fail and therefore everyone who is part of the ecosystem is propping it up," said advertising industry veteran Meenakshi Menon.

Amazon's rivalry in India with oil-to-retail conglomerate Reliance Industries looks set to head to the cricket field, where they will likely battle media heavyweights for telecast rights to India's premier cricket league with its hundreds of millions of viewers.

Amazon's rivalry in India with oil-to-retail conglomerate Reliance Industries looks set to head to the cricket field, where they will likely battle media heavyweights for telecast rights to India's premier cricket league with its hundreds of millions of viewers. Amazon.com Inc and Reliance Industries Ltd are expected to take on India units of Sony Group Corp and Walt Disney Co for exclusive five-year TV and digital broadcast rights to the two-month series of matches, at a cost that could run to a record 500 billion rupees ($6.7 billion), sources familiar with the companies' plans said. "Cricket is the second-biggest sport in the world with two-and-a-half billion fans and IPL is like its Super Bowl," said Anton Rublievskyi, head of Parimatch, a betting company that advertised at the Indian Premier League (IPL) last year. ALSO READ: 'No application of mind': Former selector questions Gaikwad, Sarfaraz's non-selection in India's Test squad "If you're not there, you do not exist." Disney-owned Star India, which is one of the top broadcasters in India along with Sony and its planned acquisition Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd, paid 163.48 billion rupees for the digital and television rights until 2022. The league's matches reached 350 million viewers during the first half of the 2021 season alone. But traditional media firms now face stiff competition from deep-pocketed rivals like Reliance, India's biggest retailer, and Amazon, two billionaire-led behemoths competing for the fast-growing e-commerce market while building up their digital platforms. Amazon and Reliance are already locked in a pitched courtroom battle over the acquisiton of assets of Future Group, another big India retailer. ALSO READ: Kusal Mendis, Dasun Shanaka star as Sri Lanka win 5th T20I against Australia by 5 wickets Reliance is also in talks with investors, including foreigners, to raise up to $1.6 billion for its broadcasting joint venture, Viacom18. "Winning this bid is critical to Reliance's long-term plans for its Jio platform and its digital expansion," said a source with direct knowledge of the company's strategy. "Everything that has happened at Viacom18 in the last few months, like buying rights to the Spanish La Liga and setting up a sports channel, has been building up to this," the source said. Reliance and Viacom18 did not respond to requests for comment. Amazon, whose Prime Video platform recently began live-streaming cricket matches, wants to win the IPL rights to expand the platform's user base, another industry source familiar with the company's thinking said. ALSO READ: 'CSK will try to get him back, no one will expect us': How RCB planned Faf du Plessis' signing at IPL auction An Amazon India spokesperson did not respond to a request for comment. The company lacks a TV platform and would need to bring in a TV partner or could only bid for the digital portion. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), which runs the tender, awarded it in 2017 to a consolidated TV and digital bid from Star, which surpassed any of the combined individual bids. Industry sources expect flexibility from the BCCI given the prospects for record payments by bidders including a deep-pocketed digital-only player like Amazon. BCCI secretary Jay Shah, in an interview with Reuters, said the board had studied various models and proposals but he did not comment on details or the likely dollar value of the bids. "We will do our best to derive the right value a tournament like the IPL deserves," he said. Among the media majors, Disney India did not respond to a request for comment but Disney CEO Bob Chapek told a recent earnings teleconference that the company was confident of achieving its subscriber targets in India even without IPL rights. ALSO READ: WATCH: Yuzi Chahal leaves Irfan, Chopra in splits on being asked about Bishnoi's dropped catch off his bowling Sony's India entertainment unit said it would evaluate bids for both broadcast and digital rights. Some in the industry however, are questioning the sharp rise in the cost of the rights and whether it is sustainable. "The IPL has got to a stage where it's now too big to fail and therefore everyone who is part of the ecosystem is propping it up," said advertising industry veteran Meenakshi Menon.

Amazon, Reliance set to battle it out for IPL telecast rights

Ahead of the three-match T20I series versus West Indies, India's white-ball captain Rohit Sharma shunned reporters for adding too much hype regarding Virat Kohli's indifferent form. For the unversed, the 33-year-old ended with only 26 runs in the three ODIs versus Kieron Pollard-led Windies. Thus,&nbsp;talks have intensified on Kohli's form as the 33-year-old remains without a century since late 2019.

“It starts from you guys (media). If you guys keep quiet for a while, he'll be alright. If you don't do much talking from your side, everything will be taken care of," Rohit had said in the pre-match presser ahead of the first T20I against the Men in Maroon in Kolkata.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/want-to-see-your-century-in-pakistan-fans-message-for-virat-kohli-goes-viral-during-psl-2022-454359">'Want to see your century in Pakistan': Fan's message for Virat Kohli goes viral during PSL 2022</a>

Reacting to Rohit's backing of his predecessor Kohli, former India player Nikhil Chopra feels Hitman's statement sends a strong message to the Indian dressing room. “I had said earlier as well that Rohit is the right candidate for captaincy because he has earned the respect of the dressing room. Everyone knows that the captain will back them even if they are not able to perform a specific role given to them. Players know the captain will never humiliate them publicly and keep backing them completely," Chopra said on the&nbsp;Khelneeti&nbsp;podcast.

Reflecting on Kohli's run of form, Chopra pointed out that the empty stands are also playing a role in the former captain's century drought.&nbsp;“I am not saying that it is happening with Kohli. But when a player receives appreciation for hitting fours and sixes, he feeds off that energy. In empty stadiums, your concentration might be affected as there is no reaction to big hits. We know a lot of players who take strength from crowd’s energy. Maybe, it might be affecting him a little bit," the ex-cricketer further pointed out.

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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-just-ran-towards-virat-kohli-and-hugged-him-rcb-pacer-md-siraj-recalls-best-surprise-of-life-454323">I just ran towards Virat Kohli and hugged him: RCB pacer Md Siraj recalls 'best surprise of life'</a>

Kohli smashed a fifty (52) in the second and penultimate T20I versus the Windies, on Friday evening (February 18), at the eden Gardens, however, once again failed to convert it into a big score.&nbsp;

Rohit-led India lead the three T20Is 1-0 after winning the series opener, at the same venue, by six wickets.

Ahead of the three-match T20I series versus West Indies, India's white-ball captain Rohit Sharma shunned reporters for adding too much hype regarding Virat Kohli's indifferent form.

Ahead of the three-match T20I series versus West Indies, India's white-ball captain Rohit Sharma shunned reporters for adding too much hype regarding Virat Kohli's indifferent form. For the unversed, the 33-year-old ended with only 26 runs in the three ODIs versus Kieron Pollard-led Windies. Thus, talks have intensified on Kohli's form as the 33-year-old remains without a century since late 2019. “It starts from you guys (media). If you guys keep quiet for a while, he'll be alright. If you don't do much talking from your side, everything will be taken care of," Rohit had said in the pre-match presser ahead of the first T20I against the Men in Maroon in Kolkata. ALSO READ | 'Want to see your century in Pakistan': Fan's message for Virat Kohli goes viral during PSL 2022 Reacting to Rohit's backing of his predecessor Kohli, former India player Nikhil Chopra feels Hitman's statement sends a strong message to the Indian dressing room. “I had said earlier as well that Rohit is the right candidate for captaincy because he has earned the respect of the dressing room. Everyone knows that the captain will back them even if they are not able to perform a specific role given to them. Players know the captain will never humiliate them publicly and keep backing them completely," Chopra said on the Khelneeti podcast. Reflecting on Kohli's run of form, Chopra pointed out that the empty stands are also playing a role in the former captain's century drought. “I am not saying that it is happening with Kohli. But when a player receives appreciation for hitting fours and sixes, he feeds off that energy. In empty stadiums, your concentration might be affected as there is no reaction to big hits. We know a lot of players who take strength from crowd’s energy. Maybe, it might be affecting him a little bit," the ex-cricketer further pointed out. × ALSO READ | I just ran towards Virat Kohli and hugged him: RCB pacer Md Siraj recalls 'best surprise of life' Kohli smashed a fifty (52) in the second and penultimate T20I versus the Windies, on Friday evening (February 18), at the eden Gardens, however, once again failed to convert it into a big score. Rohit-led India lead the three T20Is 1-0 after winning the series opener, at the same venue, by six wickets.

'Players know captain will never...': Ex-India player reacts to Rohit Sharma's stance on Virat Kohli's form

BCCI chairman of selectors Chetan Sharma on Saturday provided an update on star all-rounder Hardik Pandya's potential comeback to the Indian team. The Sharma-led selection panel on Saturday announced India's Test and T20I squads for the upcoming home series against Sri Lanka which gets underway from February 24. India will play three T20Is followed by two Tests against the visitors.

While Ravindra Jadeja was named in both the Test and the T20I squads after making his comeback from injury, Hardik remains unavailable for selection. The all-rounder had opted for a break from cricket post the T20 World Cup 2021, making himself unavailable for selection in the Indian team across formats.

He was not named in either the Test or the T20I squad for the upcoming series against Sri Lanka on Saturday but is expected to return soon. Providing an update on his return, chief selector Sharma said Pandya will be considered for selection immediately but only when he is 100 per cent fit.

He also said the selection panel cannot take a call on his comeback until they have proper confirmation of his fitness and bowling.&nbsp;

"Definitely, Hardik was a very important part of the Indian team. But now after the injuries, we'll say that until he isn't 100% fit, until we get that information that he's ready to go, is bowling and is match fit... when that comes in front of us then definitely he's an important player and we'll consider him immediately," Sharma said during a virtual press conference on Saturday.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chief-selector-chetan-sharma-explains-reason-behind-dropping-pujara-rahane-from-indias-test-squad-454610">Chief selector Chetan Sharma explains reason behind dropping Pujara, Rahane from India's Test squad</a>

In Hardik's absence, the likes of Venkatesh Iyer and Deepak Hood have been used by India in T20Is for the all-rounder's spot. Deepak Chahar has also grown in stature with impressive performances with the bat and has proved to be a useful all-rounder for the team.

Hardik is likely to be seen in action next during the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) which is expected to get underway in the final week of March. He will be leading the Gujarat Titans in the upcoming season of the tournament.

&nbsp;

BCCI chairman of selectors Chetan Sharma on Saturday provided an update on star all-rounder Hardik Pandya's potential comeback to the Indian team. The Sharma-led selection panel on Saturday announced India's Test and T20I squads for the upcoming home series against Sri Lanka which gets underway from February 24.

BCCI chairman of selectors Chetan Sharma on Saturday provided an update on star all-rounder Hardik Pandya's potential comeback to the Indian team. The Sharma-led selection panel on Saturday announced India's Test and T20I squads for the upcoming home series against Sri Lanka which gets underway from February 24. India will play three T20Is followed by two Tests against the visitors. While Ravindra Jadeja was named in both the Test and the T20I squads after making his comeback from injury, Hardik remains unavailable for selection. The all-rounder had opted for a break from cricket post the T20 World Cup 2021, making himself unavailable for selection in the Indian team across formats. He was not named in either the Test or the T20I squad for the upcoming series against Sri Lanka on Saturday but is expected to return soon. Providing an update on his return, chief selector Sharma said Pandya will be considered for selection immediately but only when he is 100 per cent fit. He also said the selection panel cannot take a call on his comeback until they have proper confirmation of his fitness and bowling. "Definitely, Hardik was a very important part of the Indian team. But now after the injuries, we'll say that until he isn't 100% fit, until we get that information that he's ready to go, is bowling and is match fit... when that comes in front of us then definitely he's an important player and we'll consider him immediately," Sharma said during a virtual press conference on Saturday. Also Read: Chief selector Chetan Sharma explains reason behind dropping Pujara, Rahane from India's Test squad In Hardik's absence, the likes of Venkatesh Iyer and Deepak Hood have been used by India in T20Is for the all-rounder's spot. Deepak Chahar has also grown in stature with impressive performances with the bat and has proved to be a useful all-rounder for the team. Hardik is likely to be seen in action next during the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) which is expected to get underway in the final week of March. He will be leading the Gujarat Titans in the upcoming season of the tournament.

'We'll consider him immediately': Chetan Sharma provides update on Hardik Pandya's return to Indian team

In what comes as a shocking piece of news ahead of the start of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022, Chennai Super Kings and India U-19 star Rajvardhan Hangargekar has been accused of age fraud. The commissioner of the Sports and Youth Department, Maharashtra, Omprakash Bakoria has accused Hangargekar of age fudging.

As per reports, In a letter written to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), Bakoria has alleged&nbsp;Hangargekar real age is 21 at present and that the youngster fudged his age to become eligible for the recently concluded ICC U-19 World Cup 2022.

As per a report in local Marathi publication Saamana, Hangargekar, who hails from a village in Osmanabad district of Maharashtra, was a student of the Terna Public School in the area. His birth date was changed from January 10, 2001 to November 10, 2002 during his readmission in the 8th grade in the school.

The change in his birth date made Hangargekar eligible to play for the India U-19 team in the U-19 World Cup 2022 which the country went on to win after beating England in the final. In his letter to the BCCI, Bakoria has reportedly stated that IAS officer Rahul Gupta has investigated the age fraud case and it was revealed that Hangargekar's birth date was listed as January 10, 2001 in the school records before being changed to November 10, 2002 at the time of his admission in the 8th grade.

“Dharashiv CEO Rahul Gupta investigated Rajvardhan Hangargekar’s birth date. It was found that he was admitted to a public school in Dharashiv where his birthdate was listed as 10 January 2001. However, that was changed to 10th November 2002 before eighth grade,” Bakoria wrote in his letter to the BCCI, as per InsideSport.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/my-father-really-loved-ms-dhoni-i-wish-he-could-watch-me-play-for-csk-rajvardhan-hangargekar-453561">My father really loved MS Dhoni, I wish he could watch me play for CSK: Rajvardhan Hangargekar&nbsp;</a>

Rajvardhan Hangargekar's IPL dream hangs in a balance:

Hangargekar, a pace all-rounder, who is known for his great speed and ability to strike the ball well, was picked up by Chennai Super Kings at the recently-concluded IPL 2022 mega auction. CSK bought him for a sum of Rs 1.5 crore (INR 15 million) at the mega auction.

However, the all-rounder can be banned from cricket and not allowed to take part in the upcoming IPL 2022 in case he is found guilty of age fudging. A BCCI official has confirmed that the board has received the letter from Maharashtra’s Commissioner of Sports and Youth Department, and will investigate the case.

"Yes, we have received a letter from the Maharashtra DYS. It is a serious allegation and we are looking into it. But at the moment he is free to play. We fully trust the system in place," a BCCI official was quoted as saying by InsideSport.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/deepak-chahar-to-liam-livingstone-5-players-who-earned-biggest-pay-rise-at-ipl-mega-auction-453828">Deepak Chahar to Liam Livingstone: 5 players who earned biggest pay rise at IPL mega auction</a>

BCCI has a strict policy against age fudging and several cricketers have been banned in the past for age fraud. Earlier, Manjot Kalra, India U-19 batter, who struck a century in the final of the U-19 World Cup in 2018 was also accused of age fraud and was suspended for one year from Ranji Trophy after being found guilty.

In what comes as a shocking piece of news ahead of the start of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022, Chennai Super Kings and India U-19 star Rajvardhan Hangargekar has been accused of age fraud.

In what comes as a shocking piece of news ahead of the start of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022, Chennai Super Kings and India U-19 star Rajvardhan Hangargekar has been accused of age fraud. The commissioner of the Sports and Youth Department, Maharashtra, Omprakash Bakoria has accused Hangargekar of age fudging. As per reports, In a letter written to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), Bakoria has alleged Hangargekar real age is 21 at present and that the youngster fudged his age to become eligible for the recently concluded ICC U-19 World Cup 2022. As per a report in local Marathi publication Saamana, Hangargekar, who hails from a village in Osmanabad district of Maharashtra, was a student of the Terna Public School in the area. His birth date was changed from January 10, 2001 to November 10, 2002 during his readmission in the 8th grade in the school. The change in his birth date made Hangargekar eligible to play for the India U-19 team in the U-19 World Cup 2022 which the country went on to win after beating England in the final. In his letter to the BCCI, Bakoria has reportedly stated that IAS officer Rahul Gupta has investigated the age fraud case and it was revealed that Hangargekar's birth date was listed as January 10, 2001 in the school records before being changed to November 10, 2002 at the time of his admission in the 8th grade. “Dharashiv CEO Rahul Gupta investigated Rajvardhan Hangargekar’s birth date. It was found that he was admitted to a public school in Dharashiv where his birthdate was listed as 10 January 2001. However, that was changed to 10th November 2002 before eighth grade,” Bakoria wrote in his letter to the BCCI, as per InsideSport. Also Read: My father really loved MS Dhoni, I wish he could watch me play for CSK: Rajvardhan Hangargekar Rajvardhan Hangargekar's IPL dream hangs in a balance: Hangargekar, a pace all-rounder, who is known for his great speed and ability to strike the ball well, was picked up by Chennai Super Kings at the recently-concluded IPL 2022 mega auction. CSK bought him for a sum of Rs 1.5 crore (INR 15 million) at the mega auction. However, the all-rounder can be banned from cricket and not allowed to take part in the upcoming IPL 2022 in case he is found guilty of age fudging. A BCCI official has confirmed that the board has received the letter from Maharashtra’s Commissioner of Sports and Youth Department, and will investigate the case. "Yes, we have received a letter from the Maharashtra DYS. It is a serious allegation and we are looking into it. But at the moment he is free to play. We fully trust the system in place," a BCCI official was quoted as saying by InsideSport. Also Read: Deepak Chahar to Liam Livingstone: 5 players who earned biggest pay rise at IPL mega auction BCCI has a strict policy against age fudging and several cricketers have been banned in the past for age fraud. Earlier, Manjot Kalra, India U-19 batter, who struck a century in the final of the U-19 World Cup in 2018 was also accused of age fraud and was suspended for one year from Ranji Trophy after being found guilty.

Rajvardhan Hangargekar's IPL dream hangs in balance as CSK youngster accused of age fraud

Cricket will make a comeback at the Asian Games in Hangzhou later this year but India, the game's financial engine, is unlikely to field teams owing to existing commitments.

Few expected India's men's team to compete in the September Games risking injury to the players ahead of the Twenty20 World Cup in Australia from Oct. 16.

Participation of the women's team, who will compete in the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham in July-August, now also looks unlikely.

ALSO READ:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/want-to-see-your-century-in-pakistan-fans-message-for-virat-kohli-goes-viral-during-psl-2022-454359">&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/want-to-see-your-century-in-pakistan-fans-message-for-virat-kohli-goes-viral-during-psl-2022-454359">'Want to see your century in Pakistan': Fan's message for Virat Kohli goes viral during PSL 2022</a>

"As far as the Asian Games in Hangzhou is concerned, a final decision on whether to send both men's and women's teams will be taken later and based on our existing commitments," BCCI secretary Jay Shah told Reuters.

The Games coincides with the women team's limited-overs tour of England where they are scheduled to play three one-dayers and an equal number of Twenty20 Internationals.

Hosting India is a lucrative proposition for any board and Shah said honouring bilateral commitment was particularly important in a post-coronavirus world. 
"The BCCI has always stood by member boards and helped them in these difficult times," Shah said.

"The board firmly believes in honouring its bilateral commitments.

"We are committed to our fans here in India and it is absolutely important that we safeguard our home season.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-just-ran-towards-virat-kohli-and-hugged-him-rcb-pacer-md-siraj-recalls-best-surprise-of-life-454323">I just ran towards Virat Kohli and hugged him: RCB pacer Md Siraj recalls 'best surprise of life'</a>

"The FTP that has been created needs to be adhered to," he said referring to the game`s Future Tours Programme calendar.

The reluctance of the BCCI, the world's richest cricket board, was seen as a major impediment to the game`s Olympic inclusion.

But a change in BCCI's stance has emboldened the governing International Cricket Council's push for cricket`s inclusion in the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.

"The BCCI and ICC are on the same page on this and agree that the inclusion of cricket in the Olympics is good for the growth of the game," added Shah.

Cricket will make a comeback at the Asian Games in Hangzhou later this year but India, the game's financial engine, is unlikely to field teams owing to existing commitments.

Cricket will make a comeback at the Asian Games in Hangzhou later this year but India, the game's financial engine, is unlikely to field teams owing to existing commitments. Few expected India's men's team to compete in the September Games risking injury to the players ahead of the Twenty20 World Cup in Australia from Oct. 16. Participation of the women's team, who will compete in the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham in July-August, now also looks unlikely. ALSO READ: 'Want to see your century in Pakistan': Fan's message for Virat Kohli goes viral during PSL 2022 "As far as the Asian Games in Hangzhou is concerned, a final decision on whether to send both men's and women's teams will be taken later and based on our existing commitments," BCCI secretary Jay Shah told Reuters. The Games coincides with the women team's limited-overs tour of England where they are scheduled to play three one-dayers and an equal number of Twenty20 Internationals. Hosting India is a lucrative proposition for any board and Shah said honouring bilateral commitment was particularly important in a post-coronavirus world. "The BCCI has always stood by member boards and helped them in these difficult times," Shah said. "The board firmly believes in honouring its bilateral commitments. "We are committed to our fans here in India and it is absolutely important that we safeguard our home season. ALSO READ: I just ran towards Virat Kohli and hugged him: RCB pacer Md Siraj recalls 'best surprise of life' "The FTP that has been created needs to be adhered to," he said referring to the game`s Future Tours Programme calendar. The reluctance of the BCCI, the world's richest cricket board, was seen as a major impediment to the game`s Olympic inclusion. But a change in BCCI's stance has emboldened the governing International Cricket Council's push for cricket`s inclusion in the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. "The BCCI and ICC are on the same page on this and agree that the inclusion of cricket in the Olympics is good for the growth of the game," added Shah.

India unlikely to send cricket teams in Hangzhou Asian Games owing to existing commitments

Former England skipper Michael Vaughan on Thursday lavished praise on Delhi batter Yash Dhull for his incredible first-class debut in the ongoing Ranji Trophy Elite Group H match.

Yash Dhull scored a ton against Tamil Nadu in the ongoing Elite Group H contest here at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium on Thursday.

"100 on his first-class debut ... Yash Dhull is a player we will be seeing lots of over the next few years," Vaughan tweeted.

Sent out to open, Dhull brought up his century off just 133 balls with the help of 16 boundaries. In the ongoing match, Tamil Nadu won the toss and opted to bowl first.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ranji-trophy-u19-wc-winning-captain-yash-dhull-stars-on-first-class-debut-smashes-century-against-tamil-nadu-453989">Ranji Trophy: U19 WC-winning captain Yash Dhull stars on first-class debut, smashes century against Tamil Nadu</a>

When on 97, Dhull was dismissed by M Mohammed but the ball turned out to be a no-ball, and the young Delhi batter got a reprieve.

Earlier this month, Dhull had led India to a record fifth U19 World Cup triumph after the boys in blue defeated England in the summit clash.

Former England skipper Michael Vaughan on Thursday lavished praise on Delhi batter Yash Dhull for his incredible first-class debut in the ongoing Ranji Trophy Elite Group H match.

Former England skipper Michael Vaughan on Thursday lavished praise on Delhi batter Yash Dhull for his incredible first-class debut in the ongoing Ranji Trophy Elite Group H match. Yash Dhull scored a ton against Tamil Nadu in the ongoing Elite Group H contest here at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium on Thursday. "100 on his first-class debut ... Yash Dhull is a player we will be seeing lots of over the next few years," Vaughan tweeted. Sent out to open, Dhull brought up his century off just 133 balls with the help of 16 boundaries. In the ongoing match, Tamil Nadu won the toss and opted to bowl first. ALSO READ: Ranji Trophy: U19 WC-winning captain Yash Dhull stars on first-class debut, smashes century against Tamil Nadu When on 97, Dhull was dismissed by M Mohammed but the ball turned out to be a no-ball, and the young Delhi batter got a reprieve. Earlier this month, Dhull had led India to a record fifth U19 World Cup triumph after the boys in blue defeated England in the summit clash.

Ranji Trophy: Michael Vaughan praises Yash Dhull for scoring record ton on first-class debut

India batter Ajinkya Rahane on Thursday smashed a ton in the ongoing match between Mumbai and Saurashtra in the Ranji Trophy 2022.

Rahane, playing for Mumbai, hit 100 in 212 balls to help his side recover from a precarious position. Mumbai were 22/2 when Rahane (100), who was going through a lean patch came into bat.

He lost his partner Sachin Yadav in the 12th over but Sarfaraz Khan (85) stitched an important stand with Rahane to revive Mumbai innings (219/3).

Earlier in the day, Delhi batter Yash Dhull on registered a century on his first-class debut in the ongoing Ranji Trophy Elite Group H contest.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ranji-trophy-u19-wc-winning-captain-yash-dhull-stars-on-first-class-debut-smashes-century-against-tamil-nadu-453989">Ranji Trophy: U19 WC-winning captain Yash Dhull stars on first-class debut, smashes century against Tamil Nadu</a>

Dhull scored a ton against Tamil Nadu in the ongoing Elite Group H contest here at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium, Guwahati.

Sent out to open, Dhull brought up his century off just 133 balls with the help of 16 boundaries.

In the ongoing match, Tamil Nadu won the toss and opted to bowl first. When on 97, Dhull was dismissed by M Mohammed but the ball turned out to be a no-ball, and the young Delhi batter got a reprieve.

Dhull had led India to a record fifth U19 World Cup triumph after the boys in blue defeated England in the summit clash.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-look-to-seal-series-against-west-indies-in-2nd-t20i-amid-talks-on-virat-kohlis-dip-in-form-453998">India look to seal series against West Indies in 2nd T20I amid talks on Virat Kohli's dip in form</a>

The Ranji Trophy would be held in two phases and now it has been confirmed that the pre-Indian Premier League (IPL) phase would run from February 10 to March 15. The post-IPL-phase would run from May 30 to June 26.

The Ranji Trophy this season would see 64 matches being played across 62 days.

India batter Ajinkya Rahane on Thursday smashed a ton in the ongoing match between Mumbai and Saurashtra in the Ranji Trophy 2022. Rahane, playing for Mumbai, hit 100 in 212 balls to help his side recover from a precarious position.

India batter Ajinkya Rahane on Thursday smashed a ton in the ongoing match between Mumbai and Saurashtra in the Ranji Trophy 2022. Rahane, playing for Mumbai, hit 100 in 212 balls to help his side recover from a precarious position. Mumbai were 22/2 when Rahane (100), who was going through a lean patch came into bat. He lost his partner Sachin Yadav in the 12th over but Sarfaraz Khan (85) stitched an important stand with Rahane to revive Mumbai innings (219/3). Earlier in the day, Delhi batter Yash Dhull on registered a century on his first-class debut in the ongoing Ranji Trophy Elite Group H contest. ALSO READ: Ranji Trophy: U19 WC-winning captain Yash Dhull stars on first-class debut, smashes century against Tamil Nadu Dhull scored a ton against Tamil Nadu in the ongoing Elite Group H contest here at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium, Guwahati. Sent out to open, Dhull brought up his century off just 133 balls with the help of 16 boundaries. In the ongoing match, Tamil Nadu won the toss and opted to bowl first. When on 97, Dhull was dismissed by M Mohammed but the ball turned out to be a no-ball, and the young Delhi batter got a reprieve. Dhull had led India to a record fifth U19 World Cup triumph after the boys in blue defeated England in the summit clash. ALSO READ: India look to seal series against West Indies in 2nd T20I amid talks on Virat Kohli's dip in form The Ranji Trophy would be held in two phases and now it has been confirmed that the pre-Indian Premier League (IPL) phase would run from February 10 to March 15. The post-IPL-phase would run from May 30 to June 26. The Ranji Trophy this season would see 64 matches being played across 62 days.

Ranji Trophy: Ajinkya Rahane regains lost form, smashes century against Saurashtra

After having won the first T20I against West Indies, Rohit Sharma-led India would look to seal the ongoing series when both teams lock horns in the second T20I.

India and West Indies will lock horns in the second T20I of the three-match series on Friday at the Eden Gardens. Ravi Bishnoi's two-wicket haul was backed up by quality knocks by Rohit Sharma (40) and Suryakumar Yadav (34*) as India defeated West Indies by six wickets in the first T20I.

The hosts would look to continue with their momentum, and ensure that the T20I is sealed on Friday itself.

Virat Kohli managed to score just 17 runs in the first game, and the management would hope that the right-handed batter manages to score big.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/1st-t20i-we-are-not-even-talking-about-him-aakash-chopra-reacts-to-virat-kohlis-string-of-low-scores-453996">'We're not even talking about him'- Chopra reacts to string of low scores from Kohli after 1st T20I vs WI</a>

Virat had lost scored a century in 2019 against Bangladesh and since then the three-figure has kept on eluding him.

Virat, who is the second-highest run-scorer in men's T20Is, would hope that he finds form soon and the century drought is broken.

In the first T20I, Rohit scored a whirlwind 40 and it was his innings that kept India ahead in the chase. However, a few quick wickets meant that India was in a spot of bother chasing 158, but in the end, Suryakumar Yadav and Venkatesh Iyer showed calm heads and India registered a victory.

Ravi Bishnoi impressed one and all on his debut as he registered figures of 2-17, and he would look to go on with his form.

Yuzvendra Chahal, Deepak Chahar, and Bhuvneshwar Kumar bowled well in patches, but the management would hope for more consistency. Harshal Patel also returned with two wickets and he seemed like a value addition to the team.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-wi-1st-t20i-im-saying-it-how-virat-kohli-convinced-skipper-rohit-sharma-to-take-drs-watch-453958">India vs WI, 1st T20I: 'I’m saying it' - How Virat Kohli convinced skipper Rohit Sharma to take DRS - Watch</a>

Talking about West Indies, Nicholas Pooran impressed with his 61-run knock, but the rest of the batters once again disappointed just like the ODI series.

The visitors would hope for their top-order to come good in the second T20I if they want to level the series.

Squads: India: Rohit Sharma (Captain), Ishan Kishan, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Surya Kumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), Venkatesh Iyer, Deepak Chahar, Shardul Thakur, Ravi Bishnoi, Yuzvendra Chahal, Washington Sundar, Mohd. Siraj, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Avesh Khan, Harshal Patel, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Deepak Hooda.

West Indies: Kieron Pollard (c), Nicholas Pooran, Fabien Allen, Darren Bravo, Roseton Chase, Sheldon Cottrell, Dominic Drakes, Jason Holder, Shai Hope, Akeal Hosein, Brandon King, Kyle Mayers, Rovman Powell, Romario Shephard, Odean Smith, Hayden Walsh Jr.

After having won the first T20I against West Indies, Rohit Sharma-led India would look to seal the ongoing series when both teams lock horns in the second T20I. India and West Indies will lock horns in the second T20I of the three-match series on Friday at the Eden Gardens.

After having won the first T20I against West Indies, Rohit Sharma-led India would look to seal the ongoing series when both teams lock horns in the second T20I. India and West Indies will lock horns in the second T20I of the three-match series on Friday at the Eden Gardens. Ravi Bishnoi's two-wicket haul was backed up by quality knocks by Rohit Sharma (40) and Suryakumar Yadav (34*) as India defeated West Indies by six wickets in the first T20I. The hosts would look to continue with their momentum, and ensure that the T20I is sealed on Friday itself. Virat Kohli managed to score just 17 runs in the first game, and the management would hope that the right-handed batter manages to score big. ALSO READ: 'We're not even talking about him'- Chopra reacts to string of low scores from Kohli after 1st T20I vs WI Virat had lost scored a century in 2019 against Bangladesh and since then the three-figure has kept on eluding him. Virat, who is the second-highest run-scorer in men's T20Is, would hope that he finds form soon and the century drought is broken. In the first T20I, Rohit scored a whirlwind 40 and it was his innings that kept India ahead in the chase. However, a few quick wickets meant that India was in a spot of bother chasing 158, but in the end, Suryakumar Yadav and Venkatesh Iyer showed calm heads and India registered a victory. Ravi Bishnoi impressed one and all on his debut as he registered figures of 2-17, and he would look to go on with his form. Yuzvendra Chahal, Deepak Chahar, and Bhuvneshwar Kumar bowled well in patches, but the management would hope for more consistency. Harshal Patel also returned with two wickets and he seemed like a value addition to the team. ALSO READ: India vs WI, 1st T20I: 'I’m saying it' - How Virat Kohli convinced skipper Rohit Sharma to take DRS - Watch Talking about West Indies, Nicholas Pooran impressed with his 61-run knock, but the rest of the batters once again disappointed just like the ODI series. The visitors would hope for their top-order to come good in the second T20I if they want to level the series. Squads: India: Rohit Sharma (Captain), Ishan Kishan, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Surya Kumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), Venkatesh Iyer, Deepak Chahar, Shardul Thakur, Ravi Bishnoi, Yuzvendra Chahal, Washington Sundar, Mohd. Siraj, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Avesh Khan, Harshal Patel, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Deepak Hooda. West Indies: Kieron Pollard (c), Nicholas Pooran, Fabien Allen, Darren Bravo, Roseton Chase, Sheldon Cottrell, Dominic Drakes, Jason Holder, Shai Hope, Akeal Hosein, Brandon King, Kyle Mayers, Rovman Powell, Romario Shephard, Odean Smith, Hayden Walsh Jr.

India look to seal series against West Indies in 2nd T20I amid talks on Virat Kohli's dip in form

Team India put on a clinical display in the three-match ODI series versus West Indies, at home, to inflict a whitewash. Ahead of the three T20Is, starting on February 16, Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. have been dealt with injury concerns with limited-overs vice-captain KL Rahul, Washington Sundar and Axar Patel being ruled out.

In Rahul's absence, who suffered a&nbsp;hamstring injury and wasn't part of the third and final ODI, BCCI have named a new vice-captain for the T20I leg. Rishabh Pant has been promoted as Rohit's deputy for the T20I series. This is the first time that Pant has been named as Team India's vice-captain for a series as the left-hander continues to grow in stature.&nbsp;

Pant is being looked upon as a future leader for Team India, especially after the rapid changes that have taken place in the senior men's team post the 2021 T20 World Cup in the UAE. For the unversed, the 24-year-old is also a contender to become the Test captain (or vice-captain) with Virat Kohli's resignation early this year.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/avesh-khan-reveals-rishabh-pants-reaction-when-he-was-sold-to-lucknow-super-giants-during-ipl-2022-auction-453303">Avesh Khan reveals Rishabh Pant's reaction when he was sold to Lucknow Super Giants during IPL 2022 auction</a>

The announcement came as BCCI confirmed Kuldeep Yadav to have replaced an injured Sundar for the upcoming T20Is. On the other hand, Deepak Hooda and Ruturaj Gaikwad are now also a part of the squad, with Rahul and Axar being ruled out.

After Pant's elevation as vice-captain, his IPL franchise Delhi Capitals (DC) also congratulated him. He will be leading the Delhi Capitals (DC) once again during the forthcoming IPL 2022 edition. Here's what DC's official Twitter handle wrote:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
You're looking at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a>'s T20I vice-captain for the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvWI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvWI</a> series 🤩 
 
Proud of you, <a href="https://twitter.com/RishabhPant17?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RishabhPant17</a> 💙<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YehHaiNayiDilli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#YehHaiNayiDilli</a> <a href="https://t.co/iPZZZZEtDC">pic.twitter.com/iPZZZZEtDC</a>
— Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiCapitals/status/1493272115457687552?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 14, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/suresh-raina-mentions-why-team-india-struggled-in-2021-t20-wc-and-tasted-success-between-2007-13-453238">Suresh Raina explains why India struggled in 2021 T20 WC, opines on team's success between 2007-13</a>

India’s T20I squad:&nbsp;Rohit Sharma (Captain), Ishan Kishan, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Surya Kumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (vice-captain) (wicket-keeper), Venkatesh Iyer, Deepak Chahar, Shardul Thakur, Ravi Bishnoi, Yuzvendra Chahal, Mohd. Siraj, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Avesh Khan, Harshal Patel, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Deepak Hooda, Kuldeep Yadav

Team India put on a clinical display in the three-match ODI series versus West Indies, at home, to inflict a whitewash. Ahead of the three T20Is, starting on February 16, Rohit Sharma & Co.

Team India put on a clinical display in the three-match ODI series versus West Indies, at home, to inflict a whitewash. Ahead of the three T20Is, starting on February 16, Rohit Sharma & Co. have been dealt with injury concerns with limited-overs vice-captain KL Rahul, Washington Sundar and Axar Patel being ruled out. In Rahul's absence, who suffered a hamstring injury and wasn't part of the third and final ODI, BCCI have named a new vice-captain for the T20I leg. Rishabh Pant has been promoted as Rohit's deputy for the T20I series. This is the first time that Pant has been named as Team India's vice-captain for a series as the left-hander continues to grow in stature. Pant is being looked upon as a future leader for Team India, especially after the rapid changes that have taken place in the senior men's team post the 2021 T20 World Cup in the UAE. For the unversed, the 24-year-old is also a contender to become the Test captain (or vice-captain) with Virat Kohli's resignation early this year. ALSO READ | Avesh Khan reveals Rishabh Pant's reaction when he was sold to Lucknow Super Giants during IPL 2022 auction The announcement came as BCCI confirmed Kuldeep Yadav to have replaced an injured Sundar for the upcoming T20Is. On the other hand, Deepak Hooda and Ruturaj Gaikwad are now also a part of the squad, with Rahul and Axar being ruled out. After Pant's elevation as vice-captain, his IPL franchise Delhi Capitals (DC) also congratulated him. He will be leading the Delhi Capitals (DC) once again during the forthcoming IPL 2022 edition. Here's what DC's official Twitter handle wrote: You're looking at #TeamIndia's T20I vice-captain for the #INDvWI series 🤩 Proud of you, @RishabhPant17 💙#YehHaiNayiDilli pic.twitter.com/iPZZZZEtDC — Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) February 14, 2022 × ALSO READ | Suresh Raina explains why India struggled in 2021 T20 WC, opines on team's success between 2007-13 India’s T20I squad: Rohit Sharma (Captain), Ishan Kishan, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Surya Kumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (vice-captain) (wicket-keeper), Venkatesh Iyer, Deepak Chahar, Shardul Thakur, Ravi Bishnoi, Yuzvendra Chahal, Mohd. Siraj, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Avesh Khan, Harshal Patel, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Deepak Hooda, Kuldeep Yadav

India vs WI, T20Is: BCCI name Rishabh Pant as Rohit Sharma's deputy in KL Rahul's absence

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Tuesday announced a change in schedule for the upcoming Sri Lanka tour of India.

Sri Lanka will first play the T20I series comprising three matches, starting from February 24, followed by a two-match Test series, which will be a part of the ICC World Test Championship, 2021-23.

"Lucknow will now host the first T20I while the next two will be played in Dharamsala," BCCI said in a statement.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-kl-rahul-harbhajan-singh-picks-young-batter-who-should-open-with-rohit-sharma-for-india-in-t20is-453501">No KL Rahul! Harbhajan Singh picks young batter who should open with Rohit Sharma for India in T20Is</a>

"The first Test will now be held in Mohali from March 4th to 8th and the second Test will be played from March 12th to 16th in Bengaluru," it added.

Earlier, Sri Lanka was slated to lock horns with India from February 25 in the first Test of the series in Bengaluru. On the other hand, the T20Is were scheduled to start from March 13 before the revised schedule was announced on Tuesday.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Tuesday announced a change in schedule for the upcoming Sri Lanka tour of India. Sri Lanka will first play the T20I series comprising three matches, starting from February 24, followed by a two-match Test series, which will be a part of the ICC World Test Championship, 2021-23.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Tuesday announced a change in schedule for the upcoming Sri Lanka tour of India. Sri Lanka will first play the T20I series comprising three matches, starting from February 24, followed by a two-match Test series, which will be a part of the ICC World Test Championship, 2021-23. "Lucknow will now host the first T20I while the next two will be played in Dharamsala," BCCI said in a statement. ALSO READ: No KL Rahul! Harbhajan Singh picks young batter who should open with Rohit Sharma for India in T20Is "The first Test will now be held in Mohali from March 4th to 8th and the second Test will be played from March 12th to 16th in Bengaluru," it added. Earlier, Sri Lanka was slated to lock horns with India from February 25 in the first Test of the series in Bengaluru. On the other hand, the T20Is were scheduled to start from March 13 before the revised schedule was announced on Tuesday.

India-SL T20Is to begin on Feb 24, Virat Kohli to play 100th Test in series opener at Mohali

Team India had a forgettable run in the 2021 T20 World Cup, held in the UAE. Under Virat Kohli, India endured a disastrous campaign, being eliminated in the Super 12 round. India have failed to end their ICC-title drought since 2013, when they lifted the Champions Trophy under former captain MS Dhoni.

During 2007-2013, India had a lot of success in ICC tournaments, winning the inaugural T20 World Cup, 2011 ODI World Cup and Champions Trophy, nine years back. Since then, the Men in Blue have done well in many ICC tournaments -- sans the last edition of the T20 WC -- but failed to lift the coveted title.&nbsp;

Suresh Raina, who went unsold at the IPL 2022 mega auction, recently opened up on India's struggles to win a major trophy and explained why the national side did so well between 2007-13. He cited&nbsp;the availability of multiple players, who could bat and as well roll their arms, as one of the main reasons for team's past success whereas feels the lack of more bowling options is now hurting the Men in Blue.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/throwback-when-ms-dhoni-showed-his-simplicity-by-travelling-with-jharkhand-players-in-train-see-pic-453218">THROWBACK: When MS Dhoni showed his simplicity by travelling with Jharkhand players in train - See pic</a>

"I think this is why we won the 2007 World T20, the 2011 World Cup and the 2013 Champions Trophy. When I started in Ranji, I remember our coach Gyanu bhai (Gyanendra Pandey) would always tell us, ‘you should bowl.’ It gives a captain the ability to get in eight-ten overs if he has a sixth or seventh bowling option, when he is playing only five bowlers. That is good planning," Raina told&nbsp;The Indian Express&nbsp;at&nbsp;Idea Exchange.

“So you see Viru paa (Sehwag), Yuvraj Singh, Yusuf Pathan and me, including in the 2011 World Cup, all would bowl,” said the veteran cricketer. He added, "When we lost in the Champions Trophy (2017), or even recently in Dubai (in the T20 World Cup), we did not have a sixth bowling option. Now Shreyas Iyer is working on his bowling, I think he should keep working hard. Rohit will have a good option then.”&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-think-hes-going-through-a-lean-phase-vikram-rathour-expects-virat-kohli-to-regain-form-in-wi-t20is-453207">Don't think he's going through a lean phase: Vikram Rathour expects Virat Kohli to regain form in WI T20Is</a>

He further asseerted, “In the South Africa series, recently, Aiden Markram was bowling six-eight overs upfront, and the main bowlers were coming in later. This is a big factor for the Indian team. Suryakumar Yadav can bowl as well. Even Rohit would bowl before his injury. So someone will have to step in, and bowl at least six-eight overs regularly in nets."&nbsp;

“Batsmen should definitely work on their batting but they need to come in early or stay back for half an hour for the nation (to bowl a bit in the nets). They will have to like that process. Once you start liking it, you will not go away without bowling five-six overs,” added the ex-Chennai Super Kings (CSK) batter.

Raina, who had a base price of INR 20 million, went unsold at IPL auction this year. He remains one of the most successful batters in IPL history, being the fourth-highest run-getter (5,528), and was a vital all-rounder for Team India from 2005-2020.

He was a part of India's title win in 2011 ODI WC and Champions Trophy success in 2013.

Team India had a forgettable run in the 2021 T20 World Cup, held in the UAE. Under Virat Kohli, India endured a disastrous campaign, being eliminated in the Super 12 round.

Team India had a forgettable run in the 2021 T20 World Cup, held in the UAE. Under Virat Kohli, India endured a disastrous campaign, being eliminated in the Super 12 round. India have failed to end their ICC-title drought since 2013, when they lifted the Champions Trophy under former captain MS Dhoni. During 2007-2013, India had a lot of success in ICC tournaments, winning the inaugural T20 World Cup, 2011 ODI World Cup and Champions Trophy, nine years back. Since then, the Men in Blue have done well in many ICC tournaments -- sans the last edition of the T20 WC -- but failed to lift the coveted title. Suresh Raina, who went unsold at the IPL 2022 mega auction, recently opened up on India's struggles to win a major trophy and explained why the national side did so well between 2007-13. He cited the availability of multiple players, who could bat and as well roll their arms, as one of the main reasons for team's past success whereas feels the lack of more bowling options is now hurting the Men in Blue. ALSO READ | THROWBACK: When MS Dhoni showed his simplicity by travelling with Jharkhand players in train - See pic "I think this is why we won the 2007 World T20, the 2011 World Cup and the 2013 Champions Trophy. When I started in Ranji, I remember our coach Gyanu bhai (Gyanendra Pandey) would always tell us, ‘you should bowl.’ It gives a captain the ability to get in eight-ten overs if he has a sixth or seventh bowling option, when he is playing only five bowlers. That is good planning," Raina told The Indian Express at Idea Exchange. “So you see Viru paa (Sehwag), Yuvraj Singh, Yusuf Pathan and me, including in the 2011 World Cup, all would bowl,” said the veteran cricketer. He added, "When we lost in the Champions Trophy (2017), or even recently in Dubai (in the T20 World Cup), we did not have a sixth bowling option. Now Shreyas Iyer is working on his bowling, I think he should keep working hard. Rohit will have a good option then.” ALSO READ | Don't think he's going through a lean phase: Vikram Rathour expects Virat Kohli to regain form in WI T20Is He further asseerted, “In the South Africa series, recently, Aiden Markram was bowling six-eight overs upfront, and the main bowlers were coming in later. This is a big factor for the Indian team. Suryakumar Yadav can bowl as well. Even Rohit would bowl before his injury. So someone will have to step in, and bowl at least six-eight overs regularly in nets." “Batsmen should definitely work on their batting but they need to come in early or stay back for half an hour for the nation (to bowl a bit in the nets). They will have to like that process. Once you start liking it, you will not go away without bowling five-six overs,” added the ex-Chennai Super Kings (CSK) batter. Raina, who had a base price of INR 20 million, went unsold at IPL auction this year. He remains one of the most successful batters in IPL history, being the fourth-highest run-getter (5,528), and was a vital all-rounder for Team India from 2005-2020. He was a part of India's title win in 2011 ODI WC and Champions Trophy success in 2013.

Suresh Raina explains why India struggled in 2021 T20 WC, opines on team's success between 2007-13

Virat Kohli's batting form has been a topic of discussion of late. While it is well-known by now that the 33-year-old's last international ton came in late 2019, in the pre-Covid era, the former Indian skipper has been among runs -- especially in the white-ball formats -- but had a forgettable three-match ODI series versus West Indies.&nbsp;

Kohli, who has been succeeded by Rohit Sharma as Team India's white-ball captain, ended with only 26 runs in the three ODIs versus the Men in Maroon, crossing the double-digit mark only once. Ahead of the three-match T20I series between both the teams, in India, batting coach Vikram Rathour played down Kohli's form struggles.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/royal-challengers-bangalore-complete-squad-for-ipl-2022-faf-du-plessis-to-captain-pace-heavy-line-up-453152">Royal Challengers Bangalore complete squad for IPL 2022: Faf du Plessis to captain pace-heavy line-up?</a>

"I don't think he's going through a lean phase. I understand he had a poor series against the West Indies (in ODIs) but no conversation as such," Rathour said in a media interaction ahead of the 1st T20I between India and the West Indies.

"He's batting really well in the nets and the kind of preparation he's putting in. We are waiting for... I'm certain that in one of these innings he will be back among runs," batting coach Rathour added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-needs-confidence-rohit-sharma-reacts-to-questions-over-kohlis-continued-lean-patch-452522">'Virat needs confidence?' Rohit Sharma reacts to questions over Kohli's continued lean patch</a>

For the unversed, Kohli endured his worst ODI&nbsp;series in 9 years, during Rohit-led India's 3-0 whitewash over West Indies. Thus, he will be eager to turn the tide in the forthcoming three T20Is. He has been in good form in the shortest format, with five fifty-plus scores in last ten innings, and will be desperate to get a big score under his belt.

The three T20Is commence on February 16, in Kolkata.

Virat Kohli's batting form has been a topic of discussion of late. While it is well-known by now that the 33-year-old's last international ton came in late 2019, in the pre-Covid era, the former Indian skipper has been among runs -- especially in the white-ball formats -- but had a forgettable three-match ODI series versus West Indies.

Virat Kohli's batting form has been a topic of discussion of late. While it is well-known by now that the 33-year-old's last international ton came in late 2019, in the pre-Covid era, the former Indian skipper has been among runs -- especially in the white-ball formats -- but had a forgettable three-match ODI series versus West Indies. Kohli, who has been succeeded by Rohit Sharma as Team India's white-ball captain, ended with only 26 runs in the three ODIs versus the Men in Maroon, crossing the double-digit mark only once. Ahead of the three-match T20I series between both the teams, in India, batting coach Vikram Rathour played down Kohli's form struggles. ALSO READ | Royal Challengers Bangalore complete squad for IPL 2022: Faf du Plessis to captain pace-heavy line-up? "I don't think he's going through a lean phase. I understand he had a poor series against the West Indies (in ODIs) but no conversation as such," Rathour said in a media interaction ahead of the 1st T20I between India and the West Indies. "He's batting really well in the nets and the kind of preparation he's putting in. We are waiting for... I'm certain that in one of these innings he will be back among runs," batting coach Rathour added. ALSO READ | 'Virat needs confidence?' Rohit Sharma reacts to questions over Kohli's continued lean patch For the unversed, Kohli endured his worst ODI series in 9 years, during Rohit-led India's 3-0 whitewash over West Indies. Thus, he will be eager to turn the tide in the forthcoming three T20Is. He has been in good form in the shortest format, with five fifty-plus scores in last ten innings, and will be desperate to get a big score under his belt. The three T20Is commence on February 16, in Kolkata.

Don't think he's going through a lean phase: Vikram Rathour expects Virat Kohli to regain form in WI T20Is

On Saturday (February 12), a freakish incident took place during Day 1 of the IPL 2022 mega auction. Auctioneer&nbsp;Hugh Edmeades&nbsp;collapsed on the stage mid-way through the bidding for Sri Lanka's Wanindu Hasaranga, who eventually went to Virat Kohli-starrer Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) for INR 107.5 million (INR 10.75 crore).

Later, the IPL confirmed that Edmeades “had an unfortunate fall due to Postural Hypotension,” and confirmed that he remains stable. Thus, he was replaced by broadcaster Charu Sharma, who continues to remain the auctioneer for the remainder of the two-day mega auction as Edmeades remains on recovery mode.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/livingstone-surpasses-hasarangas-price-tag-to-become-costliest-overseas-buy-at-ipl-2022-mega-auction-452873">Livingstone surpasses Hasaranga's price tag to become costliest overseas buy at IPL 2022 mega auction</a>

For the unversed, Charu Sharma lives near the hotel where the IPL mega auction is taking place in Bengaluru. He recently revealed the call from the IPL chairman on how he was offered&nbsp;to quickly turn up and replace Edmeades.&nbsp;“I don’t live too far from the hotel. So Brijesh called me and said, ‘just put on some clothes and run’… I was there in just 15-20 minutes. They briefed me for a bit and then we were on,” Sharma told&nbsp;Sportstar.

“I am also a regular auctioneer and have held a lot of auctions for several other leagues, except for the IPL. I was only doing what I did in the past..”

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-mega-auction-harbhajan-feels-it-was-sad-sight-of-ipl-when-regular-indian-pacer-went-unsold-452863">IPL 2022 mega auction: Harbhajan feels it was 'sad sight of IPL' when regular Indian pacer went unsold</a>

He further added, “I still do a fair amount of cricket and other leagues. I am 62 and if the phone rings, I still work. If it doesn’t ring, then I play golf, tennis, and stay at home. Even at times, friends tell me, ‘Hey Charu, we miss you in cricket.’ I joke and say, ‘even I miss myself.’ But that being said, I have done a lot of leagues and other assignments, the recent being the Tata Open Maharashtra."

The likes of Ishan Kishan, Deepak Chahar, Shreyas Iyer, Nicholas Pooran, Liam Livingstone, Jason Holder, Kagiso Rabada, Shikhar Dhawan, etc. have been sold for a whopping price in the mega auction so far. Some unknown faces, or relatively inexperienced campaigners, have also made heads turn with them going for a big sum. The two-day affair will conclude later on Sunday (February 13).

On Saturday (February 12), a freakish incident took place during Day 1 of the IPL 2022 mega auction. Auctioneer Hugh Edmeades collapsed on the stage mid-way through the bidding for Sri Lanka's Wanindu Hasaranga, who eventually went to Virat Kohli-starrer Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) for INR 107.

On Saturday (February 12), a freakish incident took place during Day 1 of the IPL 2022 mega auction. Auctioneer Hugh Edmeades collapsed on the stage mid-way through the bidding for Sri Lanka's Wanindu Hasaranga, who eventually went to Virat Kohli-starrer Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) for INR 107.5 million (INR 10.75 crore). Later, the IPL confirmed that Edmeades “had an unfortunate fall due to Postural Hypotension,” and confirmed that he remains stable. Thus, he was replaced by broadcaster Charu Sharma, who continues to remain the auctioneer for the remainder of the two-day mega auction as Edmeades remains on recovery mode. ALSO READ | Livingstone surpasses Hasaranga's price tag to become costliest overseas buy at IPL 2022 mega auction For the unversed, Charu Sharma lives near the hotel where the IPL mega auction is taking place in Bengaluru. He recently revealed the call from the IPL chairman on how he was offered to quickly turn up and replace Edmeades. “I don’t live too far from the hotel. So Brijesh called me and said, ‘just put on some clothes and run’… I was there in just 15-20 minutes. They briefed me for a bit and then we were on,” Sharma told Sportstar. “I am also a regular auctioneer and have held a lot of auctions for several other leagues, except for the IPL. I was only doing what I did in the past..” ALSO READ | IPL 2022 mega auction: Harbhajan feels it was 'sad sight of IPL' when regular Indian pacer went unsold He further added, “I still do a fair amount of cricket and other leagues. I am 62 and if the phone rings, I still work. If it doesn’t ring, then I play golf, tennis, and stay at home. Even at times, friends tell me, ‘Hey Charu, we miss you in cricket.’ I joke and say, ‘even I miss myself.’ But that being said, I have done a lot of leagues and other assignments, the recent being the Tata Open Maharashtra." The likes of Ishan Kishan, Deepak Chahar, Shreyas Iyer, Nicholas Pooran, Liam Livingstone, Jason Holder, Kagiso Rabada, Shikhar Dhawan, etc. have been sold for a whopping price in the mega auction so far. Some unknown faces, or relatively inexperienced campaigners, have also made heads turn with them going for a big sum. The two-day affair will conclude later on Sunday (February 13).

‘Put on some clothes and run' - Charu Sharma shares chat with IPL chairman after replacing Hugh Edmeades

After a long wait, the Ahmedabad franchise's owner&nbsp;Siddharth Patel of CVC Capital Partners has revealed the official name of the Hardik Pandya-led unit. The Ahmedabad franchise is set to be named Gujarat Titans. It remains one of the two new additions (along with Lucknow -- named Lucknow Super Giants) to the Indian Premier League (IPL) ahead of the 2022 edition, in India.

Ahead of the IPL 2022 mega auction, the Ahmedabad franchise had named all-rounder Hardik Pandya as the captain and also roped in Rashid Khan and Shubman Gill as their three picks. Gary Kirsten, who guided the MS Dhoni-led India to the 2011 ODI World Cup title, will serve as the batting coach whereas former pacer Ashish Nehra has been named as the head coach.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/an-emotional-call-aakash-chopra-on-csk-shelling-out-inr-120-million-to-retain-ms-dhoni-ahead-of-ipl-auction-451508">'An emotional call': Aakash Chopra on CSK shelling out INR 120 million to retain MS Dhoni ahead of IPL auction</a>

For the unversed, the franchise from Ahmedabad is the second team from Gujarat to feature in the IPL. In the 2016 and 2017 seasons, Gujarat Lions were the first-ever side from the state to be included in the IPL. It was led by Suresh Raina, who took them to the playoffs in their inaugural season.&nbsp;

Hardik's services have been roped in for INR 150 million whereas the CVC Capital Partners also bought Rashid for the same price. Shubman, on the other hand, was picked at INR 80 million. He has earlier represented the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) since the 2018 season.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-mandatory-rules-laid-down-by-bcci-for-all-10-franchises-at-mega-auction-451445">IPL 2022: Mandatory rules laid down by BCCI for all 10 franchises at mega auction</a>

It will be interesting to see who all are picked by the Ahmedabad franchise in the forthcoming auction. As per reports, the newly-formed team have INR 520 million in their purse heading into the auction proceedings. The mega auction will be held in Bengaluru on February 12 and 13.

After a long wait, the Ahmedabad franchise's owner Siddharth Patel of CVC Capital Partners has revealed the official name of the Hardik Pandya-led unit. The Ahmedabad franchise is set to be named Gujarat Titans.

After a long wait, the Ahmedabad franchise's owner Siddharth Patel of CVC Capital Partners has revealed the official name of the Hardik Pandya-led unit. The Ahmedabad franchise is set to be named Gujarat Titans. It remains one of the two new additions (along with Lucknow -- named Lucknow Super Giants) to the Indian Premier League (IPL) ahead of the 2022 edition, in India. Ahead of the IPL 2022 mega auction, the Ahmedabad franchise had named all-rounder Hardik Pandya as the captain and also roped in Rashid Khan and Shubman Gill as their three picks. Gary Kirsten, who guided the MS Dhoni-led India to the 2011 ODI World Cup title, will serve as the batting coach whereas former pacer Ashish Nehra has been named as the head coach. ALSO READ | 'An emotional call': Aakash Chopra on CSK shelling out INR 120 million to retain MS Dhoni ahead of IPL auction For the unversed, the franchise from Ahmedabad is the second team from Gujarat to feature in the IPL. In the 2016 and 2017 seasons, Gujarat Lions were the first-ever side from the state to be included in the IPL. It was led by Suresh Raina, who took them to the playoffs in their inaugural season. Hardik's services have been roped in for INR 150 million whereas the CVC Capital Partners also bought Rashid for the same price. Shubman, on the other hand, was picked at INR 80 million. He has earlier represented the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) since the 2018 season. ALSO READ | IPL 2022: Mandatory rules laid down by BCCI for all 10 franchises at mega auction It will be interesting to see who all are picked by the Ahmedabad franchise in the forthcoming auction. As per reports, the newly-formed team have INR 520 million in their purse heading into the auction proceedings. The mega auction will be held in Bengaluru on February 12 and 13.

IPL 2022: Hardik Pandya's Ahmedabad franchise named Gujarat Titans, reveals team owner

The D-day is upon us. The IPL 2022 mega auction is set to take place on February 12 and 13 in Bengaluru as all the ten franchises are eager to rope in some marquee and promising talents in their respective squads. The mega auction returns after four years, last held in early 2018, and will also see the members of the two new IPL teams -- in the form of Lucknow Super Giants and Team Ahmedabad (official name not announced yet).

Ahead of the mega auction proceedings, here's a detailed list of mandatory rules laid down by the Sourav Ganguly-led Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to be strictly followed by all the ten IPL franchises:

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/richard-madley-recalls-bidding-war-for-ms-dhoni-during-inaugural-ipl-auction-in-2008-451423">Richard Madley recalls bidding war for MS Dhoni during inaugural IPL auction in 2008</a>

1) The forthcoming IPL 2022 mega auction will be held in a bio-bubble environment. 
2) The officials representing the ten franchises will have to undergo&nbsp;COVID-19 tests and return with negative RT-PCR report on February 9, 10&nbsp; as well as on the 11th.&nbsp; 
3) Unlike the IPL 2018 mega auction, no&nbsp;Right to Match (RTM) option will be&nbsp;available&nbsp;in the upcoming&nbsp;auction proceedings. 
4) The IPL 2022 purse has seen an increase,&nbsp;from Rs 80 crore&nbsp;to 90 crore (INR 800 to 900 million) to accommodate more players. This has been done to rope in more players by focusing primarily&nbsp;on India's&nbsp;domestic circuit. 
5) The Indian board will also keep a tab&nbsp;on those arriving at the team hotel on February 11. They will be closely monitored for COVID-19 symptoms. 
6) The testing will take place&nbsp;between 12 am to 7 am for the smooth conduct of the mega&nbsp;auction. Till their test reports do not come negative,&nbsp;the members will stay put in their respective hotel rooms. 
7) All&nbsp;attendees are also expected to share full details including COVID vaccination results (if any) with the BCCI's&nbsp;medical team. 
8) The participants entering the auction proceedings&nbsp;will have to wear masks in the auditorium at all times.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/drive-auto-with-your-father-rcbs-md-siraj-recalls-criticism-for-bowling-two-beamers-vs-kkr-in-ipl-2019-451404">'Drive auto with your father' - RCB's Md Siraj recalls criticism for bowling two beamers vs KKR in IPL 2019</a>

Where to watch the live streaming, telecast of mega auction?

The ardent IPL fans will be able to watch the live streaming of the IPL 2022 mega&nbsp;auction on Disney+ Hotstar. On the other hand,&nbsp;the mega event will be telecast live on Star Sports Network.

The D-day is upon us. The IPL 2022 mega auction is set to take place on February 12 and 13 in Bengaluru as all the ten franchises are eager to rope in some marquee and promising talents in their respective squads.

The D-day is upon us. The IPL 2022 mega auction is set to take place on February 12 and 13 in Bengaluru as all the ten franchises are eager to rope in some marquee and promising talents in their respective squads. The mega auction returns after four years, last held in early 2018, and will also see the members of the two new IPL teams -- in the form of Lucknow Super Giants and Team Ahmedabad (official name not announced yet). Ahead of the mega auction proceedings, here's a detailed list of mandatory rules laid down by the Sourav Ganguly-led Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to be strictly followed by all the ten IPL franchises: ALSO READ | Richard Madley recalls bidding war for MS Dhoni during inaugural IPL auction in 2008 1) The forthcoming IPL 2022 mega auction will be held in a bio-bubble environment. 2) The officials representing the ten franchises will have to undergo COVID-19 tests and return with negative RT-PCR report on February 9, 10 as well as on the 11th. 3) Unlike the IPL 2018 mega auction, no Right to Match (RTM) option will be available in the upcoming auction proceedings. 4) The IPL 2022 purse has seen an increase, from Rs 80 crore to 90 crore (INR 800 to 900 million) to accommodate more players. This has been done to rope in more players by focusing primarily on India's domestic circuit. 5) The Indian board will also keep a tab on those arriving at the team hotel on February 11. They will be closely monitored for COVID-19 symptoms. 6) The testing will take place between 12 am to 7 am for the smooth conduct of the mega auction. Till their test reports do not come negative, the members will stay put in their respective hotel rooms. 7) All attendees are also expected to share full details including COVID vaccination results (if any) with the BCCI's medical team. 8) The participants entering the auction proceedings will have to wear masks in the auditorium at all times. ALSO READ | 'Drive auto with your father' - RCB's Md Siraj recalls criticism for bowling two beamers vs KKR in IPL 2019 Where to watch the live streaming, telecast of mega auction? The ardent IPL fans will be able to watch the live streaming of the IPL 2022 mega auction on Disney+ Hotstar. On the other hand, the mega event will be telecast live on Star Sports Network.

IPL 2022: Mandatory rules laid down by BCCI for all 10 franchises at mega auction

Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) chief Jay Shah has responded to Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Ramiz Raja's proposal of a four-nation 'T20 Super Series' involving both India and Pakistan. Shah has played down the chances of the series getting materialised anytime soon stating that the BCCI's focus is on helping cricket expand globally which is a huge challenge for all major cricket boards.

PCB chief Raja had come up with a unique proposal earlier this year. He batted for a T20 Super Series involving India, Pakistan, Australia and England and said the profits from the tournament can be shared with all ICC members on a percentage basis. India and Pakistan have not played any bilateral cricket since the 2012-13 season due to the ongoing political tension between the two nations.

India and Pakistan have since continued to meet only in major ICC events. Any meeting between the arch-rivals is highly anticipated by cricket fans across the globe and the game between the two sides becomes a mega affair in any major ICC tournament. While the PCB is making all the efforts to resume bilateral cricket between India and Pakistan, BCCI has so far maintained a strict stand.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-cricket-team-creates-history-becomes-first-side-to-complete-the-milestone-of-1000-odis-450912">Indian cricket team creates history, becomes first side to complete the milestone of 1,000 ODIs</a>

BCCI secretary Shah labelled Raja's proposal a 'short-term commercial initiative'&nbsp;while speaking to Reuters. The BCCI secretary asserted that the board will prioritise the expansion of cricket across the globe over such short-term initiatives.

"With the IPL window expanding and the ICC (global) events every year in the cycle, our primary responsibility is to safeguard bilateral cricket at home, with emphasis on test cricket," Shah told Reuters.

"I am also looking forward to seeing cricket at the Olympics, as that will help the game grow. Expansion of the sport is a challenge that our game faces and we must prioritise it over any short-term commercial initiative," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/virat-kohli-to-yash-dhull-indian-captains-who-have-lifted-the-u-19-world-cup-trophy-451068">Virat Kohli to Yash Dhull: Indian captains who have lifted the U-19 World Cup trophy</a>

"Hello fans.Will propose to the ICC a Four Nations T20i Super Series involving Pak Ind Aus Eng to be played every year,to be hosted on rotation basis by these four. A separate revenue model with profits to be shared on percentage basis with all ICC members, think we have a winner," PCB chief Raja had said in a tweet in January this year.

India and Pakistan last met in the T20 World Cup 2021 in the UAE last year where the Babar Azam-led Men in Green defeated Virat Kohli &amp; Co. comprehensively by ten wickets to get off to a winning start in the tournament. With the win, Pakistan had also brought an end to their losing streak against India in World Cup matches.

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Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) chief Jay Shah has responded to Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Ramiz Raja's proposal of a four-nation 'T20 Super Series' involving both India and Pakistan.

Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) chief Jay Shah has responded to Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Ramiz Raja's proposal of a four-nation 'T20 Super Series' involving both India and Pakistan. Shah has played down the chances of the series getting materialised anytime soon stating that the BCCI's focus is on helping cricket expand globally which is a huge challenge for all major cricket boards. PCB chief Raja had come up with a unique proposal earlier this year. He batted for a T20 Super Series involving India, Pakistan, Australia and England and said the profits from the tournament can be shared with all ICC members on a percentage basis. India and Pakistan have not played any bilateral cricket since the 2012-13 season due to the ongoing political tension between the two nations. India and Pakistan have since continued to meet only in major ICC events. Any meeting between the arch-rivals is highly anticipated by cricket fans across the globe and the game between the two sides becomes a mega affair in any major ICC tournament. While the PCB is making all the efforts to resume bilateral cricket between India and Pakistan, BCCI has so far maintained a strict stand. Also Read: Indian cricket team creates history, becomes first side to complete the milestone of 1,000 ODIs BCCI secretary Shah labelled Raja's proposal a 'short-term commercial initiative' while speaking to Reuters. The BCCI secretary asserted that the board will prioritise the expansion of cricket across the globe over such short-term initiatives. "With the IPL window expanding and the ICC (global) events every year in the cycle, our primary responsibility is to safeguard bilateral cricket at home, with emphasis on test cricket," Shah told Reuters. "I am also looking forward to seeing cricket at the Olympics, as that will help the game grow. Expansion of the sport is a challenge that our game faces and we must prioritise it over any short-term commercial initiative," he added. Also Read: Virat Kohli to Yash Dhull: Indian captains who have lifted the U-19 World Cup trophy "Hello fans.Will propose to the ICC a Four Nations T20i Super Series involving Pak Ind Aus Eng to be played every year,to be hosted on rotation basis by these four. A separate revenue model with profits to be shared on percentage basis with all ICC members, think we have a winner," PCB chief Raja had said in a tweet in January this year. India and Pakistan last met in the T20 World Cup 2021 in the UAE last year where the Babar Azam-led Men in Green defeated Virat Kohli & Co. comprehensively by ten wickets to get off to a winning start in the tournament. With the win, Pakistan had also brought an end to their losing streak against India in World Cup matches.

'Short-term commercial initiative': Jay Shah on Ramiz Raja's proposal of 4-nation series involving India, Pak

Anil Kumble's sacking as the head coach of the Indian cricket team in 2017 remains one of the most controversial sagas in Indian cricket. Kumble was removed as the head coach of the team following India's defeat in the final of the ICC Champions Trophy 2017 against Pakistan. Kumble was asked to leave just one year after being appointed as the head coach of the team.

At the time several reports had cited differences between Kohli and Kumble as the major reason behind his sacking as head coach. The captain and head coach were reportedly not on the same page which led to the controversial sacking. A former BCCI official has now lifted the lid on the entire saga.

Former BCCI administrator Ratnakar Shetty, who was working with the board in 2017, has opened up on the Kohli-Kumble episode in his new book 'On Board: Test.Trial.Triumph. My years in BCCI'. Shetty revealed Kohli and Kumble were not on the same wavelength and the captain had an upper hand which led to the legendary spinner's sacking from the head coach post.

“The events leading up to the resignation of Anil Kumble as coach of the men’s team after the ICC Champions Trophy final in June 2017 showcased the murkiness that had steadily crept into the corridors of the Cricket Centre," Shetty has written in his book, as per the Indian Express.

“It was obvious that some people did not want Anil to continue as coach. The captain and coach did not appear to be on the same wavelength and it seemed that the captain had the upper hand," the former BCCI administrator further elaborated.

Opening up on the reason behind Kumble's sacking and his differences with Kohli, Shetty revealed Kohli felt Kumble was 'not standing up for the players' in the team and was 'creating a tense atmosphere in the dressing room. Kumble was replaced by Ravi Shastri as the head coach after India's loss in the Champions Trophy 2017 final.

"I learnt later about a meeting that took place in London before the final of the Champions Trophy, which we lost to Pakistan. This meeting was attended by Virat, Anil, Johri, Amitabh Choudhary and Dr Sridhar. Apparently, Virat was not happy with Anil ‘for not standing up for the players and creating a tense atmosphere in the dressing room’, among other things," revealed Shetty in his book.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/skipper-yash-dhull-reveals-what-virat-kohli-told-the-indian-team-ahead-of-u-19-wc-final-against-england-450639">Skipper Yash Dhull reveals what Virat Kohli told the Indian team ahead of U-19 WC final against England</a>

Kohli and Shastri enjoyed a formidable partnership as coach and captain and took India to unprecedented success in Test cricket. India registered a memorable maiden series win in Australia and dominated at home and overseas in the longest format. However, the team failed to win a major ICC trophy under Shastri.

While Shastri left the India head coach post after the end of his contract last year, Kohli is also no more the captain of the Indian team in any format of the game at present.

Anil Kumble's sacking as the head coach of the Indian cricket team in 2017 remains one of the most controversial sagas in Indian cricket. Kumble was removed as the head coach of the team following India's defeat in the final of the ICC Champions Trophy 2017 against Pakistan.

Anil Kumble's sacking as the head coach of the Indian cricket team in 2017 remains one of the most controversial sagas in Indian cricket. Kumble was removed as the head coach of the team following India's defeat in the final of the ICC Champions Trophy 2017 against Pakistan. Kumble was asked to leave just one year after being appointed as the head coach of the team. At the time several reports had cited differences between Kohli and Kumble as the major reason behind his sacking as head coach. The captain and head coach were reportedly not on the same page which led to the controversial sacking. A former BCCI official has now lifted the lid on the entire saga. Former BCCI administrator Ratnakar Shetty, who was working with the board in 2017, has opened up on the Kohli-Kumble episode in his new book 'On Board: Test.Trial.Triumph. My years in BCCI'. Shetty revealed Kohli and Kumble were not on the same wavelength and the captain had an upper hand which led to the legendary spinner's sacking from the head coach post. “The events leading up to the resignation of Anil Kumble as coach of the men’s team after the ICC Champions Trophy final in June 2017 showcased the murkiness that had steadily crept into the corridors of the Cricket Centre," Shetty has written in his book, as per the Indian Express. “It was obvious that some people did not want Anil to continue as coach. The captain and coach did not appear to be on the same wavelength and it seemed that the captain had the upper hand," the former BCCI administrator further elaborated. Opening up on the reason behind Kumble's sacking and his differences with Kohli, Shetty revealed Kohli felt Kumble was 'not standing up for the players' in the team and was 'creating a tense atmosphere in the dressing room. Kumble was replaced by Ravi Shastri as the head coach after India's loss in the Champions Trophy 2017 final. "I learnt later about a meeting that took place in London before the final of the Champions Trophy, which we lost to Pakistan. This meeting was attended by Virat, Anil, Johri, Amitabh Choudhary and Dr Sridhar. Apparently, Virat was not happy with Anil ‘for not standing up for the players and creating a tense atmosphere in the dressing room’, among other things," revealed Shetty in his book. Also Read: Skipper Yash Dhull reveals what Virat Kohli told the Indian team ahead of U-19 WC final against England Kohli and Shastri enjoyed a formidable partnership as coach and captain and took India to unprecedented success in Test cricket. India registered a memorable maiden series win in Australia and dominated at home and overseas in the longest format. However, the team failed to win a major ICC trophy under Shastri. While Shastri left the India head coach post after the end of his contract last year, Kohli is also no more the captain of the Indian team in any format of the game at present.

Virat Kohli was unhappy with Anil Kumble for 'not standing up for players', claims former BCCI official

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly has said the board is planning to launch a full-fledged women's Indian Premier League (IPL) from 2023. The BCCI currently hosts the men's version of the IPL which is one of the biggest T20 leagues in the world and will now consist of a total of ten teams from the 2022 season onwards.

The BCCI also organises the Women's T20 Challenge with three teams featuring in the tournament. The Women's T20 Challenge is not a full-fledged tournament and consists of a handful of matches between the three sides. It was not conducted by the BCCI last year despite the board hosting the IPL in two phases in India and the UAE.

With calls growing stronger over the start of a full-fledged women's IPL, BCCI president Ganguly has said the board is in the process of planning to start the tournament from 2023. Ganguly believes the women's IPL will be as big and grand a success as the men's IPL.

"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 the men's IPL," Ganguly was quoted as saying by PTI.

Cricket Australia organises the Women's Big Bash League along with the men's edition of the tournament while the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) had organised the Women's Hundred competition along with the Men's Hundred edition last year. A number of Indian women's team stars were part of both the tournaments in Australia and England.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ive-played-424-internationals-sourav-ganguly-slams-accusations-of-him-interfering-in-selections-450455">I've played 424 internationals: Sourav Ganguly slams accusations of him interfering in selections</a>

The likes of Smriti Mandhana, Jemimah Rodrigues and the other members of the Indian women's team have often spoken about the importance of having a women's IPL for the growth of the women's game in India. Ganguly said the board will also organise the Women's T20 Challenge this year which will be held during the IPL 2022 playoffs.

“The Women’s T20 Challenge will again be back this year in the month of May. Hopefully, in the future, we will be able to host a bigger women’s IPL once the number of women players goes up. But this year, the Women’s T20 Challenge will happen during the IPL playoffs,” said the BCCI president, as quoted by Sportstar.

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The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly has said the board is planning to launch a full-fledged women's Indian Premier League (IPL) from 2023.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly has said the board is planning to launch a full-fledged women's Indian Premier League (IPL) from 2023. The BCCI currently hosts the men's version of the IPL which is one of the biggest T20 leagues in the world and will now consist of a total of ten teams from the 2022 season onwards. The BCCI also organises the Women's T20 Challenge with three teams featuring in the tournament. The Women's T20 Challenge is not a full-fledged tournament and consists of a handful of matches between the three sides. It was not conducted by the BCCI last year despite the board hosting the IPL in two phases in India and the UAE. With calls growing stronger over the start of a full-fledged women's IPL, BCCI president Ganguly has said the board is in the process of planning to start the tournament from 2023. Ganguly believes the women's IPL will be as big and grand a success as the men's IPL. "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 the men's IPL," Ganguly was quoted as saying by PTI. Cricket Australia organises the Women's Big Bash League along with the men's edition of the tournament while the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) had organised the Women's Hundred competition along with the Men's Hundred edition last year. A number of Indian women's team stars were part of both the tournaments in Australia and England. Also Read: I've played 424 internationals: Sourav Ganguly slams accusations of him interfering in selections The likes of Smriti Mandhana, Jemimah Rodrigues and the other members of the Indian women's team have often spoken about the importance of having a women's IPL for the growth of the women's game in India. Ganguly said the board will also organise the Women's T20 Challenge this year which will be held during the IPL 2022 playoffs. “The Women’s T20 Challenge will again be back this year in the month of May. Hopefully, in the future, we will be able to host a bigger women’s IPL once the number of women players goes up. But this year, the Women’s T20 Challenge will happen during the IPL playoffs,” said the BCCI president, as quoted by Sportstar.

BCCI planning to start full-fledged women's IPL by 2023, confirms Sourav Ganguly

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma remain the biggest two names in Indian cricket at present. While the captaincy baton has been passed&nbsp;from Kohli to Rohit in the white-ball formats, Indian cricket is set to enter a new era under Hitman in the forthcoming three-match ODI series versus West Indies at home.

Prior to the start of the India-WI series, in Ahmedabad, Rohit-Kohli are on the verge of joining former batting stars Sachin Tendulkar and Sourav Ganguly in an elite list.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ive-played-424-internationals-sourav-ganguly-slams-accusations-of-him-interfering-in-selections-450455">I've played 424 internationals: Sourav Ganguly slams accusations of him interfering in selections</a>

Kohli and Rohit&nbsp;are&nbsp;just 94&nbsp;away from completing 5,000 runs in the ODI format, where both the superstars have excelled over the years. Currently, the duo have accumulated 4,906 runs, from 81 innings at 64.55 comprising 18-century stands. Thus, they can become only the third Indian batting pair to complete the milestone and join the two stalwarts -- Ganguly and Tendulkar -- who compiled a total of&nbsp;8,227 runs in 176 innings. Rohit&nbsp;features in the list&nbsp;along with opening partner&nbsp;Shikhar Dhawan. The two&nbsp;have amassed 5,023 runs in 112 innings after becoming a daunting opening pair since the 2013 Champions Trophy.

Overall, the Rohit-Kohli&nbsp;will become the eighth batting pair to enter the 5,000-run milestone. In addition, the two have had a staggering run versus the Kieron Pollard-led West Indies. They have piled up 982 runs versus the Caribbean team and, thus, are 78 away from becoming the first-ever Indian pair to reach the 1,000-run club versus the Men in Maroon.

By virtue of this, they will once again join Tendulkar-Ganguly in becoming the second batting pair from Team India to have two or more partnership tallies of 1,000 runs, or, more, against a more than one opponent. Kohli-Rohit have over 1,000 runs as a pair versus Australia.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-wi-odis-everything-to-know-about-squads-schedule-telecast-streaming-details-450441">India vs WI, ODIs: Everything to know about squads, schedule, telecast, streaming details</a>

The India-WI ODIs get underway on February 6, at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad. It will&nbsp;be followed by the three T20Is in Kolkata. Given India were whitewashed in the South Africa ODIs, in January, they will be eager to return to winning ways.&nbsp;

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma remain the biggest two names in Indian cricket at present. While the captaincy baton has been passed from Kohli to Rohit in the white-ball formats, Indian cricket is set to enter a new era under Hitman in the forthcoming three-match ODI series versus West Indies at home.

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma remain the biggest two names in Indian cricket at present. While the captaincy baton has been passed from Kohli to Rohit in the white-ball formats, Indian cricket is set to enter a new era under Hitman in the forthcoming three-match ODI series versus West Indies at home. Prior to the start of the India-WI series, in Ahmedabad, Rohit-Kohli are on the verge of joining former batting stars Sachin Tendulkar and Sourav Ganguly in an elite list. ALSO READ | I've played 424 internationals: Sourav Ganguly slams accusations of him interfering in selections Kohli and Rohit are just 94 away from completing 5,000 runs in the ODI format, where both the superstars have excelled over the years. Currently, the duo have accumulated 4,906 runs, from 81 innings at 64.55 comprising 18-century stands. Thus, they can become only the third Indian batting pair to complete the milestone and join the two stalwarts -- Ganguly and Tendulkar -- who compiled a total of 8,227 runs in 176 innings. Rohit features in the list along with opening partner Shikhar Dhawan. The two have amassed 5,023 runs in 112 innings after becoming a daunting opening pair since the 2013 Champions Trophy. Overall, the Rohit-Kohli will become the eighth batting pair to enter the 5,000-run milestone. In addition, the two have had a staggering run versus the Kieron Pollard-led West Indies. They have piled up 982 runs versus the Caribbean team and, thus, are 78 away from becoming the first-ever Indian pair to reach the 1,000-run club versus the Men in Maroon. By virtue of this, they will once again join Tendulkar-Ganguly in becoming the second batting pair from Team India to have two or more partnership tallies of 1,000 runs, or, more, against a more than one opponent. Kohli-Rohit have over 1,000 runs as a pair versus Australia. ALSO READ | India vs WI, ODIs: Everything to know about squads, schedule, telecast, streaming details The India-WI ODIs get underway on February 6, at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad. It will be followed by the three T20Is in Kolkata. Given India were whitewashed in the South Africa ODIs, in January, they will be eager to return to winning ways.

India vs WI, ODIs: Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma on cusp of joining Sourav Ganguly-Tendulkar in elite list

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