Team India and New Zealand will lock horns with each other in the second and final Test at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Friday (December 3). The series opener lived upto expectations in the Green Park, Kanpur as the match went down to the wire where the Kane Williamson-led Kiwis denied a win to Ajinkya Rahane-led Team India, being 165/9 in pursuit of 284 on the last day.

The action will now take place in Mumbai, where the unseasonal rains have surprised one and all. Nonetheless, the weather is expected to get better as the game would progress ahead. Barring Day One, where there can be some interruptions on the cards, the match is expected to go on without delays.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-tour-of-sa-under-dark-clouds-amid-omicron-scare-likely-to-be-pushed-back-by-a-week-report-433462">India tour of SA under dark clouds amid Omicron scare, likely to be pushed back by a week : Report</a>

Talking about Team India, they will be strengthened by the addition of regular captain Virat Kohli. Kohli was rested for the three T20Is and the Test series opener, hence, the 33-year-old will like return in style and lead his side to a series victory. His own form is a concern,&nbsp;thus, Kohli will be eager to break his century drought in the Mumbai Test.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-2nd-test-will-mumbai-rains-dent-proceedings-and-play-spoilsport-to-series-finale-433455">Ind vs NZ, 2nd Test: Will Mumbai rains dent proceedings and play spoilsport to series finale?</a>

Match prediction: The red soil at the Wankhede Stadium is expected to aid the spinners as the match would go on. Spin is sure to play a huge role in the second and final Test. Taking that into consideration, India will start as favourites due to their spin quality and low returns from NZ's middle and lower-order. Batters are expected to cherish the surface after settling in but batting won't remain easy during the last few days of the contest.&nbsp;

While it is always tough to make a prediction against the Kiwis in the longest format, India will still start as favourites as they came close to a win in the first Test. Their superior record at the venue, winning 11 and losing seven, will keep them in good stead.&nbsp;

Team India and New Zealand will lock horns with each other in the second and final Test at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Friday (December 3). The series opener lived upto expectations in the Green Park, Kanpur as the match went down to the wire where the Kane Williamson-led Kiwis denied a win to Ajinkya Rahane-led Team India, being 165/9 in pursuit of 284 on the last day.

Team India and New Zealand will lock horns with each other in the second and final Test at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Friday (December 3). The series opener lived upto expectations in the Green Park, Kanpur as the match went down to the wire where the Kane Williamson-led Kiwis denied a win to Ajinkya Rahane-led Team India, being 165/9 in pursuit of 284 on the last day. The action will now take place in Mumbai, where the unseasonal rains have surprised one and all. Nonetheless, the weather is expected to get better as the game would progress ahead. Barring Day One, where there can be some interruptions on the cards, the match is expected to go on without delays. ALSO READ | India tour of SA under dark clouds amid Omicron scare, likely to be pushed back by a week : Report Talking about Team India, they will be strengthened by the addition of regular captain Virat Kohli. Kohli was rested for the three T20Is and the Test series opener, hence, the 33-year-old will like return in style and lead his side to a series victory. His own form is a concern, thus, Kohli will be eager to break his century drought in the Mumbai Test. ALSO READ | Ind vs NZ, 2nd Test: Will Mumbai rains dent proceedings and play spoilsport to series finale? Match prediction: The red soil at the Wankhede Stadium is expected to aid the spinners as the match would go on. Spin is sure to play a huge role in the second and final Test. Taking that into consideration, India will start as favourites due to their spin quality and low returns from NZ's middle and lower-order. Batters are expected to cherish the surface after settling in but batting won't remain easy during the last few days of the contest. While it is always tough to make a prediction against the Kiwis in the longest format, India will still start as favourites as they came close to a win in the first Test. Their superior record at the venue, winning 11 and losing seven, will keep them in good stead.

IND vs NZ, 2nd Test prediction: Who will win series finale between India and New Zealand in Mumbai?

Team India have quite a few cricketing assignments lined-up in the near future. Soon after the conclusion of the New Zealand Tests at home, Virat Kohli-led India are scheduled to travel to South Africa for an all-format tour. However, there are now dark clouds over the SA tour due to the Omicron threat. The new Covid variant has cast its spell worldwide as there is panic and uncertainty. Hence, travel restrictions might be imposed once again on a large scale globally.

Talking about the SA tour, BCCI and Cricket South Africa (CSA) are constantly in touch and are continuously monitoring the situation. While both the boards had expressed their confidence of the tour to go on as per schedule, there are reports that it might be postponed by a week.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-tour-of-south-africa-on-as-of-now-we-have-time-to-decide-reveals-bcci-chief-sourav-ganguly-433237">India’s tour of South Africa on as of now, we have time to decide, reveals BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly</a>

A BCCI official, on Thursday (December 2), confirmed to ANI that both boards are in constant touch and soon a decision will be taken keeping the safety of players in mind.

"We are discussing to push back the series by a week due to the threat of Omicron COVID variant and we are awaiting the Indian government nod, both boards are in constant touch and everything is being discussed. The health and safety of our players is of utmost importance," the senior official told ANI.&nbsp;

Earlier, Anurag Thakur, the Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports had made it clear that the Sourav Ganguly-led BCCI need to consult the Indian government before sending the national side to the rainbow nation, where a new COVID-19 variant has already emerged.

"Not only BCCI, but every board should also consult the Indian government before sending the team to a country where a new COVID-19 variant has emerged. It is not right to send the team to a country where there is a threat, if BCCI consults us we will deliberate on that," Thakur had told ANI.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-awaits-governments-approval-for-sa-tour-amid-omicron-scare-series-might-be-rescheduled-report-433158">BCCI awaits government's approval for SA tour amid Omicron scare, series might be rescheduled: Report</a>

For the unverved, Kohli-led India's&nbsp;tour of South Africa is scheduled to&nbsp;commence on December 17. The tour comprises three Tests, three ODIs and four T20Is. India's last visit to South Africa was in early 2018 where they lost the Tests but won the limited-overs series.

The final decision regarding the tour will be out soon.

Team India have quite a few cricketing assignments lined-up in the near future. Soon after the conclusion of the New Zealand Tests at home, Virat Kohli-led India are scheduled to travel to South Africa for an all-format tour.

Team India have quite a few cricketing assignments lined-up in the near future. Soon after the conclusion of the New Zealand Tests at home, Virat Kohli-led India are scheduled to travel to South Africa for an all-format tour. However, there are now dark clouds over the SA tour due to the Omicron threat. The new Covid variant has cast its spell worldwide as there is panic and uncertainty. Hence, travel restrictions might be imposed once again on a large scale globally. Talking about the SA tour, BCCI and Cricket South Africa (CSA) are constantly in touch and are continuously monitoring the situation. While both the boards had expressed their confidence of the tour to go on as per schedule, there are reports that it might be postponed by a week. ALSO READ | India’s tour of South Africa on as of now, we have time to decide, reveals BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly A BCCI official, on Thursday (December 2), confirmed to ANI that both boards are in constant touch and soon a decision will be taken keeping the safety of players in mind. "We are discussing to push back the series by a week due to the threat of Omicron COVID variant and we are awaiting the Indian government nod, both boards are in constant touch and everything is being discussed. The health and safety of our players is of utmost importance," the senior official told ANI. Earlier, Anurag Thakur, the Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports had made it clear that the Sourav Ganguly-led BCCI need to consult the Indian government before sending the national side to the rainbow nation, where a new COVID-19 variant has already emerged. "Not only BCCI, but every board should also consult the Indian government before sending the team to a country where a new COVID-19 variant has emerged. It is not right to send the team to a country where there is a threat, if BCCI consults us we will deliberate on that," Thakur had told ANI. ALSO READ | BCCI awaits government's approval for SA tour amid Omicron scare, series might be rescheduled: Report For the unverved, Kohli-led India's tour of South Africa is scheduled to commence on December 17. The tour comprises three Tests, three ODIs and four T20Is. India's last visit to South Africa was in early 2018 where they lost the Tests but won the limited-overs series. The final decision regarding the tour will be out soon.

India tour of SA under dark clouds amid Omicron scare, likely to be pushed back by a week : Report

The world is once again under Covid-10 threat. While the pandemic was still far from over, the new Covid variant -- named Omicron -- has once again caused panic worldwide. The normalcy which was restored in many parts might again be curtailed as the threat from the new variant is being closely monitored.

Hence, it might also affect India's tour of South Africa, which is set to commence from December 17. Plenty of cricketing action has already been severely impacted due to the Omicron threat. Thus, Team India's forthcoming tour to the African nation, which has already reported Covid cases due to the Omicron variant, might also be rescheduled. However, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)'s President Sourav Ganguly has confirmed that the tour is on as of now.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-awaits-governments-approval-for-sa-tour-amid-omicron-scare-series-might-be-rescheduled-report-433158">BCCI awaits government's approval for SA tour amid Omicron scare, series might be rescheduled: Report</a>

"The tour is on as things stand till now. We still have time to decide. The first Test is scheduled for December 17. We will ponder about it," Ganguly told reporters on the sidelines of a promotional event.' He added, "Players' security and health has always been BCCI's first priority, we will do everything possible for this. We will see what happens in the days to come."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/sports-schedules-go-haywire-due-to-omicron-covid-variant-whats-cancelled-whats-postponed-432560#icc-womens-world-cup-qualifier-called-off-432555">Sports schedules go haywire due to Omicron Covid variant: What's cancelled, what's postponed</a>

For the unversed, Virat Kohli-led India are scheduled to leave for South Africa immediately after the conclusion of the two-match Test series versus New Zealand at home. As per the schedule, they will play three Tests, equal number of ODIs and four T20Is in the rainbow nation, from December 17-January 26.

India's last tour of SA had taken place in early 2018, when they had played three Tests, six ODIs and three T20Is.

The world is once again under Covid-10 threat. While the pandemic was still far from over, the new Covid variant -- named Omicron -- has once again caused panic worldwide.

The world is once again under Covid-10 threat. While the pandemic was still far from over, the new Covid variant -- named Omicron -- has once again caused panic worldwide. The normalcy which was restored in many parts might again be curtailed as the threat from the new variant is being closely monitored. Hence, it might also affect India's tour of South Africa, which is set to commence from December 17. Plenty of cricketing action has already been severely impacted due to the Omicron threat. Thus, Team India's forthcoming tour to the African nation, which has already reported Covid cases due to the Omicron variant, might also be rescheduled. However, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)'s President Sourav Ganguly has confirmed that the tour is on as of now. ALSO READ | BCCI awaits government's approval for SA tour amid Omicron scare, series might be rescheduled: Report "The tour is on as things stand till now. We still have time to decide. The first Test is scheduled for December 17. We will ponder about it," Ganguly told reporters on the sidelines of a promotional event.' He added, "Players' security and health has always been BCCI's first priority, we will do everything possible for this. We will see what happens in the days to come." ALSO READ | Sports schedules go haywire due to Omicron Covid variant: What's cancelled, what's postponed For the unversed, Virat Kohli-led India are scheduled to leave for South Africa immediately after the conclusion of the two-match Test series versus New Zealand at home. As per the schedule, they will play three Tests, equal number of ODIs and four T20Is in the rainbow nation, from December 17-January 26. India's last tour of SA had taken place in early 2018, when they had played three Tests, six ODIs and three T20Is.

India’s tour of South Africa on as of now, we have time to decide, reveals BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly

The Sourav Ganguly-led Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has put the national selection committee's meeting on hold with regard to India's upcoming tour of South Africa. This was been done due to the threat posed by the new Covid variant, named the&nbsp;'Omicron' in the African nation which is being closely monitored. With uncertainty looming large with respect to the travel restrictions worldwide, the BCCI has decided that it is wise to delay the announcement of the Indian squad for the upcoming tour.&nbsp;

According to a&nbsp;TOI report,&nbsp;BCCI is awaiting an approval from the Indian government before sending the team to the African country. Following the emergence of&nbsp;the new variant, South Africa has been named as an 'At-risk' country. Hence, while the situation might not have gone out of hand as yet, it is now a wait-and-watch scenario with regard&nbsp;to the SA tour.

As per&nbsp;the original schedule, Virat Kohli-led Team India are scheduled to board the flight to&nbsp;South Africa immediately after the conclusion of the second Test versus&nbsp;New Zealand in Mumbai, which is slated to end by December 7. However, the new Covid variant has put everything on hold. Thus, it remains to be seen if the BCCI will stick to the original schedule or tweak it a bit.&nbsp;

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For the unversed, the likes of Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant, Mohammed Shami and Jasprit Bumrah -- who have been rested for the ongoing NZ Tests -- were initially asked to enter a mandatory quarantine in Mumbai from December 3. However, as per reports, they are yet to receive a clear itinerary. Hence, the confusion prevails.&nbsp;

TOI also reports that the series might also be rescheduled in the given scenario. "Until the players get a reply from the BCCI, confusion will prevail because nobody knows anything. But if you look at the statement that's been released by a ministerial department of the government of South Africa, it emphasizes on the security process and thanks BCCI for the deep relationship the two countries have shared. That's their way of saying, 'come and we'll take care'. The ball is now in BCCI's court," sources privy to developments told TOI.

India's last tour of SA was held in early 2018, when Kohli &amp; Co. played three Tests, six ODIs and three T20Is in the rainbow nation. Back then, India had lost the Tests 1-2 but won the ODIs and T20Is convincingly.

For now, it remains to be seen what will be the final decision regarding their forthcoming tour of SA amid the Omicron threat.

The Sourav Ganguly-led Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has put the national selection committee's meeting on hold with regard to India's upcoming tour of South Africa.

The Sourav Ganguly-led Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has put the national selection committee's meeting on hold with regard to India's upcoming tour of South Africa. This was been done due to the threat posed by the new Covid variant, named the 'Omicron' in the African nation which is being closely monitored. With uncertainty looming large with respect to the travel restrictions worldwide, the BCCI has decided that it is wise to delay the announcement of the Indian squad for the upcoming tour. According to a TOI report, BCCI is awaiting an approval from the Indian government before sending the team to the African country. Following the emergence of the new variant, South Africa has been named as an 'At-risk' country. Hence, while the situation might not have gone out of hand as yet, it is now a wait-and-watch scenario with regard to the SA tour. As per the original schedule, Virat Kohli-led Team India are scheduled to board the flight to South Africa immediately after the conclusion of the second Test versus New Zealand in Mumbai, which is slated to end by December 7. However, the new Covid variant has put everything on hold. Thus, it remains to be seen if the BCCI will stick to the original schedule or tweak it a bit. ALSO READ | Will India's tour of SA go ahead amid Omicron scare? BCCI and CSA in touch, monitoring situation closely For the unversed, the likes of Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant, Mohammed Shami and Jasprit Bumrah -- who have been rested for the ongoing NZ Tests -- were initially asked to enter a mandatory quarantine in Mumbai from December 3. However, as per reports, they are yet to receive a clear itinerary. Hence, the confusion prevails. TOI also reports that the series might also be rescheduled in the given scenario. "Until the players get a reply from the BCCI, confusion will prevail because nobody knows anything. But if you look at the statement that's been released by a ministerial department of the government of South Africa, it emphasizes on the security process and thanks BCCI for the deep relationship the two countries have shared. That's their way of saying, 'come and we'll take care'. The ball is now in BCCI's court," sources privy to developments told TOI. India's last tour of SA was held in early 2018, when Kohli & Co. played three Tests, six ODIs and three T20Is in the rainbow nation. Back then, India had lost the Tests 1-2 but won the ODIs and T20Is convincingly. For now, it remains to be seen what will be the final decision regarding their forthcoming tour of SA amid the Omicron threat.

BCCI awaits government's approval for SA tour amid Omicron scare, series might be rescheduled: Report

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) treasurer Arun Dhumal has said the Indian cricket team's tour of South Africa is on as of now despite the threat from Omicron variant growing in the region. Sporting events across South Africa shut down recently after the new variant of coronavirus was detected in the country.

Doubts were also raised over India's upcoming tour of South Africa, however, the BCCI has maintained that the tour remains on as per schedule. The Indian cricketers are scheduled to leave for South Africa in the second week of December for a full-fledged series consisting of three Tests, as many ODIs and four T20Is. The first Test of the three-match series is all set to get underway from December 17.&nbsp;

BCCI treasurer Arun Dhumal said the Indian cricket board will stand with Cricket South Africa in the current time of crisis but will not compromise with the safety of the players. South Africa's foreign ministry has said the government will provide a secure bio-bubble for the Indian team to ensure the safety of all players and support staff.

“We stand with them (Cricket South Africa), the only thing is we won't compromise on players' safety. As of now we have a chartered flight going to Johannesburg as scheduled and players will be in a bio bubble," Dhumal told news agency PTI.

"We are in constant touch with the Cricket South Africa (CSA) officials. Whatever best we can do to not compromise the series we will try and do but if the situation aggravates and if it compromises our players' safety and health, we will see,” he added, when asked about possible changes in the venue of the Test matches to reduce the risk of COVID-19.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/south-africa-promises-secure-bio-bubble-for-india-lauds-bcci-for-continuing-a-tour-amid-omicron-scare-433003">South Africa promises secure bio-bubble for India; lauds BCCI for continuing 'A' tour amid Omicron scare</a>

BCCI has also decided not to call back the India A team which is currently in action in South Africa and playing an unofficial Test series against South Africa A. The BCCI has pointed out that there is no advisory yet from the Indian government on not travelling to South Africa and that the board is ready to follow the government's advisory.

"In the end, whatever is the Government of India advisory, we will abide by that,” said Dhumal.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) treasurer Arun Dhumal has said the Indian cricket team's tour of South Africa is on as of now despite the threat from Omicron variant growing in the region.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) treasurer Arun Dhumal has said the Indian cricket team's tour of South Africa is on as of now despite the threat from Omicron variant growing in the region. Sporting events across South Africa shut down recently after the new variant of coronavirus was detected in the country. Doubts were also raised over India's upcoming tour of South Africa, however, the BCCI has maintained that the tour remains on as per schedule. The Indian cricketers are scheduled to leave for South Africa in the second week of December for a full-fledged series consisting of three Tests, as many ODIs and four T20Is. The first Test of the three-match series is all set to get underway from December 17. BCCI treasurer Arun Dhumal said the Indian cricket board will stand with Cricket South Africa in the current time of crisis but will not compromise with the safety of the players. South Africa's foreign ministry has said the government will provide a secure bio-bubble for the Indian team to ensure the safety of all players and support staff. “We stand with them (Cricket South Africa), the only thing is we won't compromise on players' safety. As of now we have a chartered flight going to Johannesburg as scheduled and players will be in a bio bubble," Dhumal told news agency PTI. "We are in constant touch with the Cricket South Africa (CSA) officials. Whatever best we can do to not compromise the series we will try and do but if the situation aggravates and if it compromises our players' safety and health, we will see,” he added, when asked about possible changes in the venue of the Test matches to reduce the risk of COVID-19. Also Read: South Africa promises secure bio-bubble for India; lauds BCCI for continuing 'A' tour amid Omicron scare BCCI has also decided not to call back the India A team which is currently in action in South Africa and playing an unofficial Test series against South Africa A. The BCCI has pointed out that there is no advisory yet from the Indian government on not travelling to South Africa and that the board is ready to follow the government's advisory. "In the end, whatever is the Government of India advisory, we will abide by that,” said Dhumal.

Team India's tour of South Africa on as of now, says BCCI treasurer amid Omicron theat

South Africa's foreign ministry has said that a "full bio-secure environment" will be created for the Indian cricket team when it lands here for a highly-anticipated series next month and lauded the BCCI for not pulling out its 'A' team despite the panic caused by the discovery of a new COVID-19 variant.

India A will start their second unofficial Test against South Africa A in Bloemfontein on Tuesday, staying put in the country despite the global trepidation that has followed the Omicron variant's discovery.

The Indian senior team will compete in three Tests starting December 17, followed by as many ODIs and four T20 Internationals.

Virat Kohli and his men are scheduled to land here by December 9 but there have been some concerns about the tour due to the Omicron variant's discovery in the region which has led to travel restrictions by several countries.

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"South Africa will take all precautions necessary to ensure the health and safety of the Indian teams. A full Bio-secure environment will be established around both the South African and Indian 'A' Teams as well as the two National Teams," the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), which is the country's foreign ministry, stated.

"India's decision to show solidarity by choosing to continue with the tour of the Indian 'A' Team stands in contrast with a number of countries who have decided to close their borders and to restrict travel from Southern African...," it added.

The ministry said that the South African government has expressed its appreciation to the BCCI for allowing the tour to continue and "for not letting travel restrictions negatively impact on international sports."

The first India-South Africa Test will be played at Johannesburg, followed by the second match at Centurion (December 26) and the third match at Cape Town (January 3).

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"The tour of the Indian National Team marks the 30th anniversary of South Africa's readmission to international cricket." 
In 1991, India had become the first country to host a South African team after the country was banned from international cricket in 1970 by the International Cricket Council (ICC) due to the then South African government's apartheid policy.

"The anniversary will be celebrated by a commemorative event that will take place on January 2, 2022 in Cape Town. This event will also serve to highlight the strong ties between South Africa and India, which is once again demonstrated by the tour of the two Indian teams," the ministry statement read.

South Africa's foreign ministry has said that a "full bio-secure environment" will be created for the Indian cricket team when it lands here for a highly-anticipated series next month and lauded the BCCI for not pulling out its 'A' team despite the panic caused by the discovery of a new COVID-19 variant.

South Africa's foreign ministry has said that a "full bio-secure environment" will be created for the Indian cricket team when it lands here for a highly-anticipated series next month and lauded the BCCI for not pulling out its 'A' team despite the panic caused by the discovery of a new COVID-19 variant. India A will start their second unofficial Test against South Africa A in Bloemfontein on Tuesday, staying put in the country despite the global trepidation that has followed the Omicron variant's discovery. The Indian senior team will compete in three Tests starting December 17, followed by as many ODIs and four T20 Internationals. Virat Kohli and his men are scheduled to land here by December 9 but there have been some concerns about the tour due to the Omicron variant's discovery in the region which has led to travel restrictions by several countries. ALSO READ: IND vs NZ: R Ashwin shares how Harbhajan's 2001 spell vs Australia inspired him to become a spinner "South Africa will take all precautions necessary to ensure the health and safety of the Indian teams. A full Bio-secure environment will be established around both the South African and Indian 'A' Teams as well as the two National Teams," the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), which is the country's foreign ministry, stated. "India's decision to show solidarity by choosing to continue with the tour of the Indian 'A' Team stands in contrast with a number of countries who have decided to close their borders and to restrict travel from Southern African...," it added. The ministry said that the South African government has expressed its appreciation to the BCCI for allowing the tour to continue and "for not letting travel restrictions negatively impact on international sports." The first India-South Africa Test will be played at Johannesburg, followed by the second match at Centurion (December 26) and the third match at Cape Town (January 3). ALSO READ | Will India's tour of SA go ahead amid Omicron scare? BCCI and CSA in touch, monitoring situation closely "The tour of the Indian National Team marks the 30th anniversary of South Africa's readmission to international cricket." In 1991, India had become the first country to host a South African team after the country was banned from international cricket in 1970 by the International Cricket Council (ICC) due to the then South African government's apartheid policy. "The anniversary will be celebrated by a commemorative event that will take place on January 2, 2022 in Cape Town. This event will also serve to highlight the strong ties between South Africa and India, which is once again demonstrated by the tour of the two Indian teams," the ministry statement read.

South Africa promises secure bio-bubble for India; lauds BCCI for continuing 'A' tour amid Omicron scare

World cricket is now functioning at a good pace with plenty of action across the globe. However, cricketing series might again get affected due to the new Covid-19 variant, named Omicron, pointed out by the World Health Organisation (WHO).&nbsp;

In this regard, with the fast spread&nbsp;of the Omicron&nbsp;(B.1.1.529)&nbsp;variant of the Coronavirus in the African countries, the adverse impact is already being felt as the Netherlands-South Africa series got abandoned in the African nation. In addition, the ICC Women's World Cup Qualifiers in Zimbabwe has been cancelled. Hence, the onus has fallen on Team India's upcoming tour of South Africa, starting from mid-December.

For the unversed, Virat Kohli's Team India will travel to the African nation for an all-format tour, comprising three Tests, equal number of ODIs and four T20Is. Due to the threat of the new variant Omicron, there are talks that India's tour of SA might get affected, however, no such discussion has been held between the BCCI and Cricket South Africa (CSA).

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CSA acting CEO Pholetsi Moseki has revealed that the two boards are in discussion. Revealing their conversation with the Sourav Ganguly-led BCCI, Moseki has said that the Indian board remains committed and is keen to continue with the tour. On the other hand, CSA also remains positive that the tour will go on as scheduled unless the situation&nbsp;gets completely out of grasp.&nbsp;

In addition, the BCCI has stressed upon the fact that at the moment, there has been no advisory or travel ban from the Indian government with regards to touring South Africa. Hence, CSA is confident of making all the required bio-bubble arrangements for India's successful tour of SA.

As of now, the tour very much remains as per schedule. However, the final decision will be taken by both the boards in the coming days, depending on how the situation turns out globally in the near future. A final decision will be made after giving full consideration to players' safety and travel regulations.

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Team India is currently involved in a two-match Test versus WTC champions New Zealand at home. After the series ends, by December 7, the national side will get few days off before leaving for South Africa. At present, India's A team is involved in a two-match unofficial Test series versus SA A. The second Test got underway from Tuesday (November 30).

India tour of South Africa schedule:&nbsp;

First Test – Johannesburg (December 17-21)

Second Test – Centurion (December 26-30)

Third Test – Cape Town (January 3-7)

First ODI – Paarl (January 11)

Second ODI – Cape Town (January 14)

Third ODI – Cape Town (January 16)

First T20 International – Cape Town (January 19)

Second T20 International – Cape Town (January 21)

Third T20 International – Paarl (January 23)

Fourth T20 International – Paarl (January 26)

World cricket is now functioning at a good pace with plenty of action across the globe. However, cricketing series might again get affected due to the new Covid-19 variant, named Omicron, pointed out by the World Health Organisation (WHO).

World cricket is now functioning at a good pace with plenty of action across the globe. However, cricketing series might again get affected due to the new Covid-19 variant, named Omicron, pointed out by the World Health Organisation (WHO). In this regard, with the fast spread of the Omicron (B.1.1.529) variant of the Coronavirus in the African countries, the adverse impact is already being felt as the Netherlands-South Africa series got abandoned in the African nation. In addition, the ICC Women's World Cup Qualifiers in Zimbabwe has been cancelled. Hence, the onus has fallen on Team India's upcoming tour of South Africa, starting from mid-December. For the unversed, Virat Kohli's Team India will travel to the African nation for an all-format tour, comprising three Tests, equal number of ODIs and four T20Is. Due to the threat of the new variant Omicron, there are talks that India's tour of SA might get affected, however, no such discussion has been held between the BCCI and Cricket South Africa (CSA). ALSO READ | Omicron will 'lead to challenges' for the winter Olympics: China CSA acting CEO Pholetsi Moseki has revealed that the two boards are in discussion. Revealing their conversation with the Sourav Ganguly-led BCCI, Moseki has said that the Indian board remains committed and is keen to continue with the tour. On the other hand, CSA also remains positive that the tour will go on as scheduled unless the situation gets completely out of grasp. In addition, the BCCI has stressed upon the fact that at the moment, there has been no advisory or travel ban from the Indian government with regards to touring South Africa. Hence, CSA is confident of making all the required bio-bubble arrangements for India's successful tour of SA. As of now, the tour very much remains as per schedule. However, the final decision will be taken by both the boards in the coming days, depending on how the situation turns out globally in the near future. A final decision will be made after giving full consideration to players' safety and travel regulations. ALSO READ | Kevin Pietersen lauds PM Modi as India ready to help African nations amid Omicron scare Team India is currently involved in a two-match Test versus WTC champions New Zealand at home. After the series ends, by December 7, the national side will get few days off before leaving for South Africa. At present, India's A team is involved in a two-match unofficial Test series versus SA A. The second Test got underway from Tuesday (November 30). India tour of South Africa schedule: First Test – Johannesburg (December 17-21) Second Test – Centurion (December 26-30) Third Test – Cape Town (January 3-7) First ODI – Paarl (January 11) Second ODI – Cape Town (January 14) Third ODI – Cape Town (January 16) First T20 International – Cape Town (January 19) Second T20 International – Cape Town (January 21) Third T20 International – Paarl (January 23) Fourth T20 International – Paarl (January 26)

Will India's tour of SA go ahead amid Omicron scare? BCCI and CSA in touch, monitoring situation closely

Virat Kohli was rested for the three T20Is between India and New Zealand and also remained out of action for the two-match Test series opener, at Kanpur. Nonetheless, the 33-year-old is gearing up to return to action on the 22-yard cricket strip for the second and final Test versus the Black Caps, to be held at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on December 3.

With Kohli set to return and walk into the playing XI, India will have selection issues as the Rahul Dravid-led team management will have to drop someone from the top or middle order. Given that Mayank Agarwal might be dropped, following his low returns in the Kanpur Test, it will also lead to changes in the opening pair. If they consider a batter to be dropped from No. 3 to 7, the onus will fall on Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Shreyas Iyer and Ravindra Jadeja. While Pujara and Rahane are the senior pros, the duo have disappointed for long with the bat. On the other hand, Iyer and Jadeja's returns with the bat in the series opener cannot be easily overlooked.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kanpur-test-ashwin-becomes-indias-3rd-highest-wicket-taker-in-purest-format-surpasses-harbhajan-432727">Kanpur Test: Ashwin becomes India's 3rd-highest wicket-taker in purest format, surpasses Harbhajan</a>

Speaking on the YouTube channel&nbsp;Khelneeti, former Indian all-rounder Nikhil Chopra talked about Rahane's dreadful run in the whites and called for his omission, with Kohli replacing him in the series finale. The cricketer-turned-commentator Chopra opined that the Indian think tank should drop Rahane rather than Mayank. "Instead of dropping Mayank Agarwal, Ajinkya Rahane should make way for Virat Kohli. Rahane doesn't have a great average and it shows his struggles in recent years," Chopra said. &nbsp;

He also added, "Youngsters should be given a chance to play in India. It is important to give them confidence ahead of an overseas tour. If you are looking to drop Agarwal, then I'd rather pick Suryakumar Yadav for the Mumbai Test."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shreyas-iyer-reveals-advice-from-head-coach-rahul-dravid-after-dream-test-debut-against-new-zealand-432591">Shreyas Iyer reveals advice from head coach Rahul Dravid after dream Test debut against New Zealand</a>

It will be interesting to see if who will make way for regular captain Kohli for the second and final Test in Mumbai. While Rahane's form has been poor for quite sometime, he remains Kohli's deputy in whites. Though he had an ordinary run in the series opener, Rahane led India reasonably well in the Kanpur Test, which ended in a draw with India needing one more wicket to win the contest.

Virat Kohli was rested for the three T20Is between India and New Zealand and also remained out of action for the two-match Test series opener, at Kanpur. Nonetheless, the 33-year-old is gearing up to return to action on the 22-yard cricket strip for the second and final Test versus the Black Caps, to be held at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on December 3.

Virat Kohli was rested for the three T20Is between India and New Zealand and also remained out of action for the two-match Test series opener, at Kanpur. Nonetheless, the 33-year-old is gearing up to return to action on the 22-yard cricket strip for the second and final Test versus the Black Caps, to be held at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on December 3. With Kohli set to return and walk into the playing XI, India will have selection issues as the Rahul Dravid-led team management will have to drop someone from the top or middle order. Given that Mayank Agarwal might be dropped, following his low returns in the Kanpur Test, it will also lead to changes in the opening pair. If they consider a batter to be dropped from No. 3 to 7, the onus will fall on Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Shreyas Iyer and Ravindra Jadeja. While Pujara and Rahane are the senior pros, the duo have disappointed for long with the bat. On the other hand, Iyer and Jadeja's returns with the bat in the series opener cannot be easily overlooked. ALSO READ | Kanpur Test: Ashwin becomes India's 3rd-highest wicket-taker in purest format, surpasses Harbhajan Speaking on the YouTube channel Khelneeti, former Indian all-rounder Nikhil Chopra talked about Rahane's dreadful run in the whites and called for his omission, with Kohli replacing him in the series finale. The cricketer-turned-commentator Chopra opined that the Indian think tank should drop Rahane rather than Mayank. "Instead of dropping Mayank Agarwal, Ajinkya Rahane should make way for Virat Kohli. Rahane doesn't have a great average and it shows his struggles in recent years," Chopra said. He also added, "Youngsters should be given a chance to play in India. It is important to give them confidence ahead of an overseas tour. If you are looking to drop Agarwal, then I'd rather pick Suryakumar Yadav for the Mumbai Test." ALSO READ | Shreyas Iyer reveals advice from head coach Rahul Dravid after dream Test debut against New Zealand It will be interesting to see if who will make way for regular captain Kohli for the second and final Test in Mumbai. While Rahane's form has been poor for quite sometime, he remains Kohli's deputy in whites. Though he had an ordinary run in the series opener, Rahane led India reasonably well in the Kanpur Test, which ended in a draw with India needing one more wicket to win the contest.

He should make way for Kohli: Ex all-rounder names senior batter who should be dropped for 2nd Test

His career spanned for 16 years (1996-2012). Sticking to his reputation of being a 'Test specialist', he proved his critics right and amassed 13,288 runs in the format. During his early days, not many rated him as an ODI player. However, he was far from being a pushover in ODIs and ended with 10,288 runs&nbsp;(to date, he is among five Indian players with over 10k runs in 50-over format).&nbsp;

Rahul Dravid is synonymous to breaking norm without creating much fuss. When the legendary cricketer first appeared in international cricket, he was the first to accept that he was far from the best. Having someone of the stature of Sachin Tendulkar, who was already in his seventh year in international cricket, Dravid started his initial years trying to fit into the national side.&nbsp;

Dravid's zeal to perfect his game was evident right from the start.&nbsp;Hence, he performed at his best in the 1999 ODI World Cup while playing as a top-order batsman. As a result, he ended being the highest run-getter (461 runs) despite many feeling that ODIs weren't his cup of tea. While his ardent fans remember him as the country's greatest No. 3 Test batsman, one of his most defining knocks in whites came at No. 6 (180 in the 2001 Kolkata Test versus Australia). Thus, his relentless, childlike passion to better himself and serve the team in any manner caught up with fans instantly.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-will-do-kapil-dev-makes-bold-claim-on-team-indias-head-coach-rahul-dravid-432134">'He will do....' - Kapil Dev makes bold claim on Team India's head coach Rahul Dravid</a>

The challenges multiplied as years progressed for Dravid in international cricket. When Sourav Ganguly-led India were struggling to finalise a wicketkeeper-batsman in the line-up, the then skipper turned to his deputy in Dravid. In the 2003 ODI World Cup, Dravid returned with third-most dismissals among keepers (16). While he was reluctant to take the gloves at first, the former cricketer gave in just for the sake of adding more to the national side (vastly helping in the team combination). While run-making was his primary job, Dravid didn't believe in doing the routine business and moving&nbsp;aside. Time and again, he raised his hands to volunteer in bailing Team India out of crisis.

Before world cricket recognised MS Dhoni's brilliance as a finisher and he became the darling of his nation, Dravid also&nbsp;did the same job with distinction. Even before his captaincy stint, Dravid finished many innings and games with a bang (versus Sri Lanka, England, West Indies). In addition, his strike-rate soared significantly while batting with the captain's tag next to his name. Once slammed for being&nbsp;slow and a perfect foil to draw Test matches, the right-hander struck at 75. 42 as an ODI captain. It is to be noted that his overall strike-rate reads 71.23. Moreover, he struck at a whopping 83.64 in 2007.

Dravid also took over as India's captain in one of their most-troubled times (in the aftermath of the infamous Ganguly-Greg Chappell era). Keeping the forgettable&nbsp;2007 ODI WC aside, India flourished under his astute leadership and tactical awareness. Further, Dhoni, Yuvraj Singh, Suresh Raina, RP Singh, Irfan Pathan and many others' respective careers gained mileage under his watchful eyes. In addition, India became a daunting chasing side by constantly batting second (achieving the world record of completing 17 successful ODI run-chases on the trot).

While the regular fans will remember Dravid's staggering career statistics, the&nbsp;connoisseurs of the game acknowledge that he was never&nbsp;behind bettering his numbers. The man has always been a selfless servant of Indian cricket. Hence, he has continued to remain relevant in Indian cricket's rise by constantly reinventing himself and promoting the game as a supporting actor.&nbsp;

After hanging his boots, Dravid stepped into coaching. From 2016-2019, the former Indian captain took over the reins of India A and U-19 as the head coach. Under him, youngsters such as Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant, Ishan Kishan, Prithvi Shaw, Shubman Gill, Hardik Pandya, Mohammed Siraj, etc. have not only flourished but are now integral to Indian team across formats. His simplicity and keeping-things-simple formula has gelled well with youngsters in finding their feet. Moreover, Dravid has given equal, or more, credit to his support staff and ensured his entire unit moved together in unison.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rahul-dravid-once-scolded-him-sehwag-shares-unheard-incident-that-transformed-finisher-ms-dhoni-432151">'Rahul Dravid once scolded him' - Sehwag shares unheard incident that transformed 'finisher' MS Dhoni</a>

After the U-19 and India A coaching stint, Dravid added another new role in his glittering CV; i.e. taking over the National Cricket Academy. As the NCA head, he ensured a regular supply of young and uncapped players to the national setup, as and when required, by taking care of them in the premier academy. Moreover, the NCA also looked after the injured key players for their timely recovery.&nbsp;

At present, the 48-year-old Dravid has taken over as India's full-time head coach, till the 2023 ODI World Cup. While many would feel his stature made it easier for him to land at the top job, however, he has rightly won the post by going through the hard yards and proving that his love for Indian cricket remains unchanged.&nbsp;

Dravid has truckload of runs under his belt to prove his mettle. However, the former player doesn't deserve to be&nbsp;judged by numbers. He adds value to Indian cricket in many ways and continues to serve in any given manner; showcasing his unflinching loyalty to the country's most-loved sport.

His career spanned for 16 years (1996-2012). Sticking to his reputation of being a 'Test specialist', he proved his critics right and amassed 13,288 runs in the format.

His career spanned for 16 years (1996-2012). Sticking to his reputation of being a 'Test specialist', he proved his critics right and amassed 13,288 runs in the format. During his early days, not many rated him as an ODI player. However, he was far from being a pushover in ODIs and ended with 10,288 runs (to date, he is among five Indian players with over 10k runs in 50-over format). Rahul Dravid is synonymous to breaking norm without creating much fuss. When the legendary cricketer first appeared in international cricket, he was the first to accept that he was far from the best. Having someone of the stature of Sachin Tendulkar, who was already in his seventh year in international cricket, Dravid started his initial years trying to fit into the national side. Dravid's zeal to perfect his game was evident right from the start. Hence, he performed at his best in the 1999 ODI World Cup while playing as a top-order batsman. As a result, he ended being the highest run-getter (461 runs) despite many feeling that ODIs weren't his cup of tea. While his ardent fans remember him as the country's greatest No. 3 Test batsman, one of his most defining knocks in whites came at No. 6 (180 in the 2001 Kolkata Test versus Australia). Thus, his relentless, childlike passion to better himself and serve the team in any manner caught up with fans instantly. ALSO READ | 'He will do....' - Kapil Dev makes bold claim on Team India's head coach Rahul Dravid The challenges multiplied as years progressed for Dravid in international cricket. When Sourav Ganguly-led India were struggling to finalise a wicketkeeper-batsman in the line-up, the then skipper turned to his deputy in Dravid. In the 2003 ODI World Cup, Dravid returned with third-most dismissals among keepers (16). While he was reluctant to take the gloves at first, the former cricketer gave in just for the sake of adding more to the national side (vastly helping in the team combination). While run-making was his primary job, Dravid didn't believe in doing the routine business and moving aside. Time and again, he raised his hands to volunteer in bailing Team India out of crisis. Before world cricket recognised MS Dhoni's brilliance as a finisher and he became the darling of his nation, Dravid also did the same job with distinction. Even before his captaincy stint, Dravid finished many innings and games with a bang (versus Sri Lanka, England, West Indies). In addition, his strike-rate soared significantly while batting with the captain's tag next to his name. Once slammed for being slow and a perfect foil to draw Test matches, the right-hander struck at 75. 42 as an ODI captain. It is to be noted that his overall strike-rate reads 71.23. Moreover, he struck at a whopping 83.64 in 2007. Dravid also took over as India's captain in one of their most-troubled times (in the aftermath of the infamous Ganguly-Greg Chappell era). Keeping the forgettable 2007 ODI WC aside, India flourished under his astute leadership and tactical awareness. Further, Dhoni, Yuvraj Singh, Suresh Raina, RP Singh, Irfan Pathan and many others' respective careers gained mileage under his watchful eyes. In addition, India became a daunting chasing side by constantly batting second (achieving the world record of completing 17 successful ODI run-chases on the trot). While the regular fans will remember Dravid's staggering career statistics, the connoisseurs of the game acknowledge that he was never behind bettering his numbers. The man has always been a selfless servant of Indian cricket. Hence, he has continued to remain relevant in Indian cricket's rise by constantly reinventing himself and promoting the game as a supporting actor. After hanging his boots, Dravid stepped into coaching. From 2016-2019, the former Indian captain took over the reins of India A and U-19 as the head coach. Under him, youngsters such as Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant, Ishan Kishan, Prithvi Shaw, Shubman Gill, Hardik Pandya, Mohammed Siraj, etc. have not only flourished but are now integral to Indian team across formats. His simplicity and keeping-things-simple formula has gelled well with youngsters in finding their feet. Moreover, Dravid has given equal, or more, credit to his support staff and ensured his entire unit moved together in unison. ALSO READ | 'Rahul Dravid once scolded him' - Sehwag shares unheard incident that transformed 'finisher' MS Dhoni After the U-19 and India A coaching stint, Dravid added another new role in his glittering CV; i.e. taking over the National Cricket Academy. As the NCA head, he ensured a regular supply of young and uncapped players to the national setup, as and when required, by taking care of them in the premier academy. Moreover, the NCA also looked after the injured key players for their timely recovery. At present, the 48-year-old Dravid has taken over as India's full-time head coach, till the 2023 ODI World Cup. While many would feel his stature made it easier for him to land at the top job, however, he has rightly won the post by going through the hard yards and proving that his love for Indian cricket remains unchanged. Dravid has truckload of runs under his belt to prove his mettle. However, the former player doesn't deserve to be judged by numbers. He adds value to Indian cricket in many ways and continues to serve in any given manner; showcasing his unflinching loyalty to the country's most-loved sport.

The Wall remains rock solid: Rahul Dravid's loyalty to Indian cricket is applaudable

The detection of a new coronavirus variant - Omicron in South Africa can soon lead to the suspension of all sporting activities across the country. In the wake of the emergence of the new variant of the virus, the ongoing ODI series between South Africa and the Netherlands cricket team has been postponed while the Women's cricket World Cup qualifiers in Zimbabwe have also been suspended.

The new variant has been labelled as a 'variant of concern' by the World Health Organisation (WHO) with medical experts and scientists claiming that it mutates quickly. The threat of the new variant of the virus also looms large over the future of India's upcoming cricket tour of South Africa in December this year.

India are scheduled to tour South Africa for a full-fledged series consisting of three Tests, as many ODIs and four T20I matches. However, there remain concerns over the tour after the detection of the Omicron variant of coronavirus.

Sports Minister Anurag Thakur on Saturday said the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) should consult the government before taking a final call on sending the Indian team to South Africa. Thakur said it is not right to send the team to a country where there is a significant threat of the virus.

"Not only BCCI, but every board should also consult the Indian government before sending the team to a country where a new COVID-19 variant has emerged. It is not right to send the team to a country where there is a threat, if BCCI consults us we will deliberate on that," Thakur was quoted as saying by ANI.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-officials-likely-to-meet-to-discuss-the-fate-of-indias-tour-of-south-africa-amid-covid-19-threat-432391">BCCI officials likely to meet to discuss the fate of India's tour of South Africa amid COVID-19 threat</a>

On Saturday (November 27), the remaining two ODIs of the ongoing series between South Africa and the Netherlands in South Africa were called off over concerns due to the virus. The Omicron variant can soon lead to the shut down of all sports in the country.

"The recently discovered variant of coronavirus B.1.1.529 is of concern. It has more mutations than science knows about other alarming variants. The WHO has assessed this new variant as worrisome,"&nbsp; WHO said in a statement regarding the new variant.

&nbsp;

The detection of a new coronavirus variant - Omicron in South Africa can soon lead to the suspension of all sporting activities across the country. In the wake of the emergence of the new variant of the virus, the ongoing ODI series between South Africa and the Netherlands cricket team has been postponed while the Women's cricket World Cup qualifiers in Zimbabwe have also been suspended.

The detection of a new coronavirus variant - Omicron in South Africa can soon lead to the suspension of all sporting activities across the country. In the wake of the emergence of the new variant of the virus, the ongoing ODI series between South Africa and the Netherlands cricket team has been postponed while the Women's cricket World Cup qualifiers in Zimbabwe have also been suspended. The new variant has been labelled as a 'variant of concern' by the World Health Organisation (WHO) with medical experts and scientists claiming that it mutates quickly. The threat of the new variant of the virus also looms large over the future of India's upcoming cricket tour of South Africa in December this year. India are scheduled to tour South Africa for a full-fledged series consisting of three Tests, as many ODIs and four T20I matches. However, there remain concerns over the tour after the detection of the Omicron variant of coronavirus. Sports Minister Anurag Thakur on Saturday said the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) should consult the government before taking a final call on sending the Indian team to South Africa. Thakur said it is not right to send the team to a country where there is a significant threat of the virus. "Not only BCCI, but every board should also consult the Indian government before sending the team to a country where a new COVID-19 variant has emerged. It is not right to send the team to a country where there is a threat, if BCCI consults us we will deliberate on that," Thakur was quoted as saying by ANI. Also Read: BCCI officials likely to meet to discuss the fate of India's tour of South Africa amid COVID-19 threat On Saturday (November 27), the remaining two ODIs of the ongoing series between South Africa and the Netherlands in South Africa were called off over concerns due to the virus. The Omicron variant can soon lead to the shut down of all sports in the country. "The recently discovered variant of coronavirus B.1.1.529 is of concern. It has more mutations than science knows about other alarming variants. The WHO has assessed this new variant as worrisome," WHO said in a statement regarding the new variant.

BCCI should consult government before sending team to SA amid COVID-19 threat, says Anurag Thakur

The emergence of the new variant of COVID-19 in South Africa has jeopardised India's upcoming cricket tour of the country. The new variant Omicron has been detected in several countries and has been categorised as a 'variant of concern' by the World Health Organisation (WHO). The new COVID-19 variant is said to be mutating at a faster rate and can wreak havoc if not controlled.

Team India are scheduled to tour South Africa next month for a full-fledged series consisting of three Tests, three ODIs and four T20Is against the Proteas. However, there remains uncertainty over the tour amid threat&nbsp;from the new variant of the virus. The Test series between the two sides is scheduled to get underway from December 17.

With several countries across the world imposing travel restrictions on South Africa, India's cricket tour is also in danger. The top brass of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is all set to meet on Saturday to discuss the road ahead and the fate of the tour as the new variant of COVID-19 might soon lead to the suspension of all sports in South Africa.

"Yes it (the new Covid variant) is point of concern and we are having meeting with officials to discuss the roadmap of India tour to South Africa also about India A team which is already there," a BCCI source was quoted as saying by India Today.

"We will first talk to our officials about it and then will talk to Cricket South Africa to understand the situation and accordingly will take a call. We are already in touch with concerned authorities and keeping close track," added the source.

India A are currently on a tour to South Africa for three&nbsp;unofficial Test matches. While the first game between India A and South Africa A ended in a draw on Friday, the second unofficial Test is all set to get underway from November 29.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/relations-between-kohli-ex-coach-shastri-and-bcci-were-not-great-inzamam-on-indias-t20-wc-debacle-432302">Relations between Kohli, ex-coach Shastri and BCCI were not great: Inzamam on India's T20 WC debacle</a>

When asked if BCCI is planning to call the India A team back home from the country, the source said that any decision will be taken only after a discussion with Cricket South Africa.

"It is too early to comment on that but yes safety and security of players is paramount. Let us meet first and talk to the South Africa board, As of now there is nothing to worry about, we are in constant touch with players and team management there," the source told India Today.

COVID-19 had led to indefinite suspension of all sorts of sporting events across the world last year when the virus first made its presence felt globally.

The emergence of the new variant of COVID-19 in South Africa has jeopardised India's upcoming cricket tour of the country. The new variant Omicron has been detected in several countries and has been categorised as a 'variant of concern' by the World Health Organisation (WHO).

The emergence of the new variant of COVID-19 in South Africa has jeopardised India's upcoming cricket tour of the country. The new variant Omicron has been detected in several countries and has been categorised as a 'variant of concern' by the World Health Organisation (WHO). The new COVID-19 variant is said to be mutating at a faster rate and can wreak havoc if not controlled. Team India are scheduled to tour South Africa next month for a full-fledged series consisting of three Tests, three ODIs and four T20Is against the Proteas. However, there remains uncertainty over the tour amid threat from the new variant of the virus. The Test series between the two sides is scheduled to get underway from December 17. With several countries across the world imposing travel restrictions on South Africa, India's cricket tour is also in danger. The top brass of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is all set to meet on Saturday to discuss the road ahead and the fate of the tour as the new variant of COVID-19 might soon lead to the suspension of all sports in South Africa. "Yes it (the new Covid variant) is point of concern and we are having meeting with officials to discuss the roadmap of India tour to South Africa also about India A team which is already there," a BCCI source was quoted as saying by India Today. "We will first talk to our officials about it and then will talk to Cricket South Africa to understand the situation and accordingly will take a call. We are already in touch with concerned authorities and keeping close track," added the source. India A are currently on a tour to South Africa for three unofficial Test matches. While the first game between India A and South Africa A ended in a draw on Friday, the second unofficial Test is all set to get underway from November 29. Also Read: Relations between Kohli, ex-coach Shastri and BCCI were not great: Inzamam on India's T20 WC debacle When asked if BCCI is planning to call the India A team back home from the country, the source said that any decision will be taken only after a discussion with Cricket South Africa. "It is too early to comment on that but yes safety and security of players is paramount. Let us meet first and talk to the South Africa board, As of now there is nothing to worry about, we are in constant touch with players and team management there," the source told India Today. COVID-19 had led to indefinite suspension of all sorts of sporting events across the world last year when the virus first made its presence felt globally.

BCCI officials likely to meet to discuss the fate of India's tour of South Africa amid COVID-19 threat

Former Pakistan captain Inzamam-ul-Haq who recently claimed that the Indian players 'were scared' and 'under pressure' even before the start of their game against Pakistan in the T20 World Cup 2021, has made yet another absurd statement. Inzamam believes the relations between captain Virat Kohli, head coach Ravi Shastri and the BCCI were not good during the T20 World Cup which led to India's poor show in the tournament.

India suffered a crushing defeat in their opening game of the Super 12 against arch-rivals Pakistan before losing their next game against New Zealand by eight wickets. The back-to-bac defeats pushed India on the back foot and confirmed their early exit from the tournament as the Men in Blue could only manage three wins in a total of five matches.&nbsp;

India's T20 setup has undergone massive changes since the conclusion of the T20 World Cup 2021 as Shastri and Kohli have both stepped down from their respective posts of the head coach and captain. While Shastri has been replaced by Rahul Dravid as India's head coach across formats after the end of his contract, Kohli has been replaced by Rohit as the T20 captain of the team.

Inzamam said Kohli's announcement before the start of the tournament that he is leaving captaincy was not a good move. He also claimed that the relations were not good between Kohli, Shastri and the Indian cricket board as they knew Shastri was going to be replaced by Dravid after the tournament.

"I said this even before the match, that this statement of leaving captaincy after the tournament… it is not good. You have to play a big event and this shows that there is pressure on you and you are not comfortable. They all knew that after this tournament, Shastri was to get replaced by Dravid," Inzamam said on ARY News.

"This should not happen before a big event. Your authority gets challenged. And this means that relations between Kohli, Shastri and board were not great. If India were to win the T20 World Cup, would they have removed the captain and coach? There was some problem between them," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indians-were-scared-under-pressure-even-before-the-pakistan-match-started-inzamam-ul-haq-432071">Indians were scared, under pressure even before the Pakistan match started: Inzamam-ul-Haq</a>

India's campaign at the T20 World Cup got off to the worst possible start with their ten-wicket defeat against Pakistan before slipping to an eight-wicket loss against New Zealand. The back-to-back defeats meant India failed to recover and had to make an exit from the group stages.

Former Pakistan captain Inzamam-ul-Haq who recently claimed that the Indian players 'were scared' and 'under pressure' even before the start of their game against Pakistan in the T20 World Cup 2021, has made yet another absurd statement.

Former Pakistan captain Inzamam-ul-Haq who recently claimed that the Indian players 'were scared' and 'under pressure' even before the start of their game against Pakistan in the T20 World Cup 2021, has made yet another absurd statement. Inzamam believes the relations between captain Virat Kohli, head coach Ravi Shastri and the BCCI were not good during the T20 World Cup which led to India's poor show in the tournament. India suffered a crushing defeat in their opening game of the Super 12 against arch-rivals Pakistan before losing their next game against New Zealand by eight wickets. The back-to-bac defeats pushed India on the back foot and confirmed their early exit from the tournament as the Men in Blue could only manage three wins in a total of five matches. India's T20 setup has undergone massive changes since the conclusion of the T20 World Cup 2021 as Shastri and Kohli have both stepped down from their respective posts of the head coach and captain. While Shastri has been replaced by Rahul Dravid as India's head coach across formats after the end of his contract, Kohli has been replaced by Rohit as the T20 captain of the team. Inzamam said Kohli's announcement before the start of the tournament that he is leaving captaincy was not a good move. He also claimed that the relations were not good between Kohli, Shastri and the Indian cricket board as they knew Shastri was going to be replaced by Dravid after the tournament. "I said this even before the match, that this statement of leaving captaincy after the tournament… it is not good. You have to play a big event and this shows that there is pressure on you and you are not comfortable. They all knew that after this tournament, Shastri was to get replaced by Dravid," Inzamam said on ARY News. "This should not happen before a big event. Your authority gets challenged. And this means that relations between Kohli, Shastri and board were not great. If India were to win the T20 World Cup, would they have removed the captain and coach? There was some problem between them," he added. Also Read: Indians were scared, under pressure even before the Pakistan match started: Inzamam-ul-Haq India's campaign at the T20 World Cup got off to the worst possible start with their ten-wicket defeat against Pakistan before slipping to an eight-wicket loss against New Zealand. The back-to-back defeats meant India failed to recover and had to make an exit from the group stages.

Relations between Kohli, ex-coach Shastri and BCCI were not great: Inzamam on India's T20 WC debacle

MS Dhoni is regarded as one of the finest cricketers to have graced the gentlemen's game. Dhoni came into the scene in late 2004 and retired from international cricket on August 15, 2020. During his stint at the international level, Dhoni established himself in varied roles.

Dhoni broke into the scene and became a household name for his hitting prowess. Soon, he transformed himself into a mature finisher, able wicketkeeper, Captain Cool, handy Test batsman, etc. While he donned many roles, it took sometime for him to hone his skills in the many responsibilities he had undertaken.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-will-do-kapil-dev-makes-bold-claim-on-team-indias-head-coach-rahul-dravid-432134">'He will do....' - Kapil Dev makes bold claim on Team India's head coach Rahul Dravid</a>

Dhoni is regarded as one of the greatest finishers of all-time. However, there was a time when he was scolded by Team India's head coach Rahul Dravid for not finishing a game and getting out. Former Indian opener Virender Sehwag shared the unheard incident recently.

Sehwag told India TV, "He was given the finisher’s role under Dravid, who once scolded him for getting out after playing a bad shot. I think that incident changed him. So around 2006-07, he transformed and started taking responsibility of finishing matches. He (Dhoni) formed an unbelievable partnership with Yuvraj when we registered that record of 16 successive chases (during Dravid's captaincy era)."

Further, Sehwag also credited Sourav Ganguly for the sacrifice he made to ensure Dhoni flourished as a cricketer. "Those days (2005) we were experimenting with pinch-hitters. Dada (Ganguly) had planned that Dhoni would get 3-4 chances at No. 3. If it works then fine, otherwise they would try someone else. Very few captains do it. He first sacrificed his (opening) spot for me and then he gave his slot to Dhoni. If Dada had not done that, Dhoni might not have become such a big player."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-virat-kohli-or-rohit-sharma-former-pakistan-pacer-md-amir-picks-hardest-batsman-to-bowl-at-432100">Not Virat Kohli or Rohit Sharma! Former Pakistan pacer Md. Amir picks 'hardest batsman to bowl at'</a>

Dhoni was seen in the Team India dugout as the mentor during their forgettable T20 World Cup 2021 campaign, in the UAE. He is now gearing up for the IPL 2022 edition, where he will lead Chennai Super Kings (CSK) after taking them to their fourth title in IPL 14. Meanwhile, Dravid has taken over as India's full-time coach till 2023 ODI World Cup.

MS Dhoni is regarded as one of the finest cricketers to have graced the gentlemen's game. Dhoni came into the scene in late 2004 and retired from international cricket on August 15, 2020.

MS Dhoni is regarded as one of the finest cricketers to have graced the gentlemen's game. Dhoni came into the scene in late 2004 and retired from international cricket on August 15, 2020. During his stint at the international level, Dhoni established himself in varied roles. Dhoni broke into the scene and became a household name for his hitting prowess. Soon, he transformed himself into a mature finisher, able wicketkeeper, Captain Cool, handy Test batsman, etc. While he donned many roles, it took sometime for him to hone his skills in the many responsibilities he had undertaken. ALSO READ | 'He will do....' - Kapil Dev makes bold claim on Team India's head coach Rahul Dravid Dhoni is regarded as one of the greatest finishers of all-time. However, there was a time when he was scolded by Team India's head coach Rahul Dravid for not finishing a game and getting out. Former Indian opener Virender Sehwag shared the unheard incident recently. Sehwag told India TV, "He was given the finisher’s role under Dravid, who once scolded him for getting out after playing a bad shot. I think that incident changed him. So around 2006-07, he transformed and started taking responsibility of finishing matches. He (Dhoni) formed an unbelievable partnership with Yuvraj when we registered that record of 16 successive chases (during Dravid's captaincy era)." Further, Sehwag also credited Sourav Ganguly for the sacrifice he made to ensure Dhoni flourished as a cricketer. "Those days (2005) we were experimenting with pinch-hitters. Dada (Ganguly) had planned that Dhoni would get 3-4 chances at No. 3. If it works then fine, otherwise they would try someone else. Very few captains do it. He first sacrificed his (opening) spot for me and then he gave his slot to Dhoni. If Dada had not done that, Dhoni might not have become such a big player." ALSO READ | Not Virat Kohli or Rohit Sharma! Former Pakistan pacer Md. Amir picks 'hardest batsman to bowl at' Dhoni was seen in the Team India dugout as the mentor during their forgettable T20 World Cup 2021 campaign, in the UAE. He is now gearing up for the IPL 2022 edition, where he will lead Chennai Super Kings (CSK) after taking them to their fourth title in IPL 14. Meanwhile, Dravid has taken over as India's full-time coach till 2023 ODI World Cup.

'Rahul Dravid once scolded him' - Sehwag shares unheard incident that transformed 'finisher' MS Dhoni

Rahul Dravid took over as India's head coach from Ravi Shastri after the end of the T20 World Cup. Under Shastri, India enjoyed considerable success across formats and became a daunting force while playing overseas Tests. However, the national side couldn't win an ICC title and, hence, Dravid will like to end India's ICC-title drought during his tenure.

In his first-ever series as India's full-time coach, Dravid guided Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. to a T20I series whitewash of New Zealand at home. The Indian team is now involved in a two-match Test series versus the Black Caps and will like to continue their dominant run under new coach.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-he-doesnt-look-like-an-opener-aakash-chopra-shares-ideal-batting-position-for-shubman-gill-432069">IND vs NZ: 'He doesn't look like an opener' - Aakash Chopra shares ideal batting position for Shubman Gill</a>

Recently, speaking at Dravid's appointment as Team India's head coach, former World Cup-winning captain Kapil Dev said at the Royal Calcutta Golf Course in Kolkata, "He's a good man, a good cricketer. He will do a better job as a coach than as a cricketer because in cricket nobody has done better than him. I'm just keeping my fingers crossed," He added. "You can't just judge one after his debut, you don't go by one performance. Over a period of time, what Rahul will do, we will come to know. You only think positive."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-is-not-bowling-so-can-we-call-him-all-rounder-kapil-dev-opines-on-team-india-star-hardik-pandya-432094">'He is not bowling so can we call him all-rounder?' - Kapil Dev opines on Team India star Hardik Pandya</a>

Dravid, who amassed 13,288&nbsp;and 10,889 runs in Test cricket and ODIs respectively, has donned several roles in Indian cricket since his international debut in 1996. From being a middle-order batsman, finisher, part-time keeper, vice-captain, captain, U-19 and India A coach, NCA head, The Wall will now look to excel in his new role as the national side's coach and take Indian cricket to greater heights.

Rahul Dravid took over as India's head coach from Ravi Shastri after the end of the T20 World Cup. Under Shastri, India enjoyed considerable success across formats and became a daunting force while playing overseas Tests.

Rahul Dravid took over as India's head coach from Ravi Shastri after the end of the T20 World Cup. Under Shastri, India enjoyed considerable success across formats and became a daunting force while playing overseas Tests. However, the national side couldn't win an ICC title and, hence, Dravid will like to end India's ICC-title drought during his tenure. In his first-ever series as India's full-time coach, Dravid guided Rohit Sharma & Co. to a T20I series whitewash of New Zealand at home. The Indian team is now involved in a two-match Test series versus the Black Caps and will like to continue their dominant run under new coach. ALSO READ | IND vs NZ: 'He doesn't look like an opener' - Aakash Chopra shares ideal batting position for Shubman Gill Recently, speaking at Dravid's appointment as Team India's head coach, former World Cup-winning captain Kapil Dev said at the Royal Calcutta Golf Course in Kolkata, "He's a good man, a good cricketer. He will do a better job as a coach than as a cricketer because in cricket nobody has done better than him. I'm just keeping my fingers crossed," He added. "You can't just judge one after his debut, you don't go by one performance. Over a period of time, what Rahul will do, we will come to know. You only think positive." ALSO READ | 'He is not bowling so can we call him all-rounder?' - Kapil Dev opines on Team India star Hardik Pandya Dravid, who amassed 13,288 and 10,889 runs in Test cricket and ODIs respectively, has donned several roles in Indian cricket since his international debut in 1996. From being a middle-order batsman, finisher, part-time keeper, vice-captain, captain, U-19 and India A coach, NCA head, The Wall will now look to excel in his new role as the national side's coach and take Indian cricket to greater heights.

'He will do....' - Kapil Dev makes bold claim on Team India's head coach Rahul Dravid

A couple of Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises are not happy with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) over its decision to ban any sponsorship deals with cryptocurrency exchanges. The board doesn't want the franchises to strike a commercial deal with the exchanges till the time the Indian government brings a regulation in place for the sector.

As per a report in the Economic Times, two franchises revealed they had been approached by major cryptocurrency exchanges over sponsorship deals ahead of IPL 2022. However, the negotiations had to be stalled after BCCI's diktat over crypto. The board has asked all teams and the media right holders to avoid signing any sponsorship deals with crypto exchanges.

“It’s a major opportunity loss. The kind of money they were offering for the main sponsorship was 1.5 times of what the current sponsor is paying. They wanted to build their brand with our association and were ready to pay for that,” an executive of one of the IPL franchises, who were offered a deal by a crypto exchange company, was quoted as saying by Economic Times.

While the franchises often have the freedom to sort out their sponsorship deals on their own, BCCI doesn't want to hurry on the decision with the central government in the process of finalising a crypto bill to regulate the sector. A BCCI insider said the matter was political in nature.

“While the members of the IPL governing council may not have an issue with cryptocurrency exchanges advertising, it’s a matter of optics. BCCI secretary Jay Shah is the son of the union home minister, and the central government is in the process of bringing a crypto bill in the upcoming winter session of parliament. Till there is some clarity, he may not be seen allowing crypto ads,” said the BCCI source.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/who-will-keep-whom-list-of-players-likely-to-be-retained-by-csk-kkr-dc-and-mi-ahead-of-ipl-mega-auction-432050">List of players likely to be retained by CSK, KKR, DC and MI ahead of IPL mega auction</a>

What has not gone down well with the two franchises is the fact that major crypto players were handed sponsorship deals by the International Cricket Council (ICC) during the recently-concluded T20 World Cup 2021. Crypto exchanges like ConSwitch and CoinDCX reportedly spent over Rs 50 crore in sponsorship deals, as per Economic Times.

&nbsp;

A couple of Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises are not happy with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) over its decision to ban any sponsorship deals with cryptocurrency exchanges.

A couple of Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises are not happy with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) over its decision to ban any sponsorship deals with cryptocurrency exchanges. The board doesn't want the franchises to strike a commercial deal with the exchanges till the time the Indian government brings a regulation in place for the sector. As per a report in the Economic Times, two franchises revealed they had been approached by major cryptocurrency exchanges over sponsorship deals ahead of IPL 2022. However, the negotiations had to be stalled after BCCI's diktat over crypto. The board has asked all teams and the media right holders to avoid signing any sponsorship deals with crypto exchanges. “It’s a major opportunity loss. The kind of money they were offering for the main sponsorship was 1.5 times of what the current sponsor is paying. They wanted to build their brand with our association and were ready to pay for that,” an executive of one of the IPL franchises, who were offered a deal by a crypto exchange company, was quoted as saying by Economic Times. While the franchises often have the freedom to sort out their sponsorship deals on their own, BCCI doesn't want to hurry on the decision with the central government in the process of finalising a crypto bill to regulate the sector. A BCCI insider said the matter was political in nature. “While the members of the IPL governing council may not have an issue with cryptocurrency exchanges advertising, it’s a matter of optics. BCCI secretary Jay Shah is the son of the union home minister, and the central government is in the process of bringing a crypto bill in the upcoming winter session of parliament. Till there is some clarity, he may not be seen allowing crypto ads,” said the BCCI source. Also Read: List of players likely to be retained by CSK, KKR, DC and MI ahead of IPL mega auction What has not gone down well with the two franchises is the fact that major crypto players were handed sponsorship deals by the International Cricket Council (ICC) during the recently-concluded T20 World Cup 2021. Crypto exchanges like ConSwitch and CoinDCX reportedly spent over Rs 50 crore in sponsorship deals, as per Economic Times.

IPL franchises miffed after BCCI bans deals with cryptocurrency exchanges

Hardik Pandya hasn't had the best of times recently in international cricket. While he bowled some overs in the Sri Lanka tour, in mid-2021, he had a nightmarish tour with the bat. Further, he failed to get going in IPL 2021 but was expected to turn the tides in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, in the UAE.

Nonetheless, Hardik couldn't do much with the bat in India's opening two games -- versus Pakistan and New Zealand respectively -- whereas bowled only a handful of overs to return wicketless in the showpiece event. Barring his cameo versus Afghanistan, Hardik had an ordinary T20 WC campaign. With him not bowling his full quota of overs, Hardik is playing mainly as a specialist batsman -- for his hitting prowess -- in ODIs and T20Is whereas he&nbsp;has fallen down in the pecking order in Tests.

Thus, times are tough for the 27-year-old Indian star. Recently, India's 1983 World Cup-winning skipper Kapil Dev&nbsp;has&nbsp;stated that Hardik can't be termed an all-rounder till he doesn't start bowling regularly.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-he-doesnt-look-like-an-opener-aakash-chopra-shares-ideal-batting-position-for-shubman-gill-432069">IND vs NZ: 'He doesn't look like an opener' - Aakash Chopra shares ideal batting position for Shubman Gill</a>

"He has to do both the jobs to be considered an all-rounder. He is not bowling so can we call him all-rounder? Let him bowl, he has come out from the injury," Kapil said at the Royal Calcutta Golf Course, as per PTI.

"He is an extremely important batter to the country, for bowling he has to play a lot more matches, perform and bowl and then we will say," he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/who-will-keep-whom-list-of-players-likely-to-be-retained-by-csk-kkr-dc-and-mi-ahead-of-ipl-mega-auction-432050">Who will keep whom? List of players likely to be retained by CSK, KKR, DC and MI ahead of IPL mega auction</a>

With no Hardik in the India-NZ T20I series, Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. opted for Venkatesh Iyer in the line-up. If the Kolkata Knight Riders' (KKR) opener improves as a bowler in upcoming times, Hardik will find it tough to find a place even as a specialist batsman in the shorter formats.&nbsp;

Thus, it will be interesting to see by when Hardik returns to bowling his full quota of overs as he still remains one of the most important players for India across formats.

Hardik Pandya hasn't had the best of times recently in international cricket. While he bowled some overs in the Sri Lanka tour, in mid-2021, he had a nightmarish tour with the bat.

Hardik Pandya hasn't had the best of times recently in international cricket. While he bowled some overs in the Sri Lanka tour, in mid-2021, he had a nightmarish tour with the bat. Further, he failed to get going in IPL 2021 but was expected to turn the tides in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, in the UAE. Nonetheless, Hardik couldn't do much with the bat in India's opening two games -- versus Pakistan and New Zealand respectively -- whereas bowled only a handful of overs to return wicketless in the showpiece event. Barring his cameo versus Afghanistan, Hardik had an ordinary T20 WC campaign. With him not bowling his full quota of overs, Hardik is playing mainly as a specialist batsman -- for his hitting prowess -- in ODIs and T20Is whereas he has fallen down in the pecking order in Tests. Thus, times are tough for the 27-year-old Indian star. Recently, India's 1983 World Cup-winning skipper Kapil Dev has stated that Hardik can't be termed an all-rounder till he doesn't start bowling regularly. ALSO READ | IND vs NZ: 'He doesn't look like an opener' - Aakash Chopra shares ideal batting position for Shubman Gill "He has to do both the jobs to be considered an all-rounder. He is not bowling so can we call him all-rounder? Let him bowl, he has come out from the injury," Kapil said at the Royal Calcutta Golf Course, as per PTI. "He is an extremely important batter to the country, for bowling he has to play a lot more matches, perform and bowl and then we will say," he added. ALSO READ | Who will keep whom? List of players likely to be retained by CSK, KKR, DC and MI ahead of IPL mega auction With no Hardik in the India-NZ T20I series, Rohit Sharma & Co. opted for Venkatesh Iyer in the line-up. If the Kolkata Knight Riders' (KKR) opener improves as a bowler in upcoming times, Hardik will find it tough to find a place even as a specialist batsman in the shorter formats. Thus, it will be interesting to see by when Hardik returns to bowling his full quota of overs as he still remains one of the most important players for India across formats.

'He is not bowling so can we call him all-rounder?' - Kapil Dev opines on Team India star Hardik Pandya

After a gruelling T20 season, with IPL 2021's final leg followed by T20 World Cup in the UAE, Test cricket has now returned for the cricket lovers worldwide. While Sri Lanka-West Indies are involved in a Test series in the island nation, Team India have also kicked off their Test season with the first Test versus New Zealand underway in Kanpur on Thursday (November 25).

As soon as the Indian team started their two-match Test series opener versus the Kane Williamson-led Black Caps, former Indian opener-turned-meme specialist Wasim Jaffer won the internet with an epic post.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/viral-team-india-coach-rahul-dravid-resorts-to-off-spin-in-nets-ahead-of-1st-test-vs-nz-watch-431663">VIRAL: Team India coach Rahul Dravid resorts to off-spin in nets ahead of 1st Test vs NZ - WATCH</a>

Jaffer captioned the post, "Watching Test cricket after few months of T20 cricket feels the same as eating maa ke haath ka khana (eating home-cooked food by mother) after few months away from home."

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<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CWr25eAtIXA/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Wasim Jaffer (@wasimjaffer14)</a>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-think-axar-and-jadeja-are-in-the-same-league-says-former-pakistan-cricketer-431755">'Don't think Axar and Jadeja are in the same league,' says former Pakistan cricketer</a>

Test cricket has returned after a few months' halt. The IPL 14's final leg, in the UAE, was followed by the seventh edition of the T20 WC, from mid-September to November. Now, the longest format has come back into the fore with plenty of Test matches lined-up in the coming weeks. While India-New Zealand are involved in a Test series in India, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh are also engaged in a two-match Test series versus West Indies and Pakistan, respectively, in their own backyards. On the other hand, the Ashes 2021 is set to commence in Australia from December 8.

Talking about the India-NZ first Test, stand-in captain Ajinkya Rahane won the toss and opted to bat first. At lunch, India are well-placed at 82&nbsp;for 1 with opener Shubman Gill unbeaten on 52. The hosts will look to post a big score and challenge the Kiwi line-up in Green Park, Kanpur.&nbsp;&nbsp;

After a gruelling T20 season, with IPL 2021's final leg followed by T20 World Cup in the UAE, Test cricket has now returned for the cricket lovers worldwide. While Sri Lanka-West Indies are involved in a Test series in the island nation, Team India have also kicked off their Test season with the first Test versus New Zealand underway in Kanpur on Thursday (November 25).

After a gruelling T20 season, with IPL 2021's final leg followed by T20 World Cup in the UAE, Test cricket has now returned for the cricket lovers worldwide. While Sri Lanka-West Indies are involved in a Test series in the island nation, Team India have also kicked off their Test season with the first Test versus New Zealand underway in Kanpur on Thursday (November 25). As soon as the Indian team started their two-match Test series opener versus the Kane Williamson-led Black Caps, former Indian opener-turned-meme specialist Wasim Jaffer won the internet with an epic post. ALSO READ | VIRAL: Team India coach Rahul Dravid resorts to off-spin in nets ahead of 1st Test vs NZ - WATCH Jaffer captioned the post, "Watching Test cricket after few months of T20 cricket feels the same as eating maa ke haath ka khana (eating home-cooked food by mother) after few months away from home." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Wasim Jaffer (@wasimjaffer14) × ALSO READ | 'Don't think Axar and Jadeja are in the same league,' says former Pakistan cricketer Test cricket has returned after a few months' halt. The IPL 14's final leg, in the UAE, was followed by the seventh edition of the T20 WC, from mid-September to November. Now, the longest format has come back into the fore with plenty of Test matches lined-up in the coming weeks. While India-New Zealand are involved in a Test series in India, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh are also engaged in a two-match Test series versus West Indies and Pakistan, respectively, in their own backyards. On the other hand, the Ashes 2021 is set to commence in Australia from December 8. Talking about the India-NZ first Test, stand-in captain Ajinkya Rahane won the toss and opted to bat first. At lunch, India are well-placed at 82 for 1 with opener Shubman Gill unbeaten on 52. The hosts will look to post a big score and challenge the Kiwi line-up in Green Park, Kanpur.

Ind vs NZ: Wasim Jaffer wins the internet with epic post as Test cricket returns after IPL 2021, T20 WC

New Zealand all-rounder Kyle Jamieson feels that playing Test cricket in India will be a different challenge, considering he is touring the country for the first time. He added that he will seek ideas from senior pacers Neil Wagner and Tim Southee on how to bowl in Indian conditions. 
 
"I haven`t played a whole lot of cricket over here. I had the first half of the IPL which was good, but this will be different again. I`ve got Wags (Wagner) and Timmy (Southee) here, so that`ll be good to bounce ideas of them, to get their expertise on how to bowl here. It`s certainly going to be a different challenge to what we get back home but really looking forward to it," Jamieson was quoted as saying by stuff.co.nz.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-pak-captain-praises-rahul-dravid-for-his-was-never-going-to-be-easy-on-nz-remark-post-t20i-series-431451">Former Pak captain praises Rahul Dravid for his 'was never going to be easy on NZ' remark post T20I series</a>

Jamieson played an instrumental role in New Zealand winning the last three Tests against India, including the World Test Championship final in Southampton in June this year. But with Southee and Wagner in the squad, he might not be a part of the playing eleven in the first Test at Green Park Stadium here on Thursday. 
 
The all-rounder, who made a blazing start to Test cricket with 46 wickets in just eight appearances at an average of 14.17, including five five-wicket hauls, is aware that playing Test cricket in India will pose a hard challenge as New Zealand begins its defence of WTC title. 
 
"It certainly feels a long time ago. No better way to start than the challenge of India in India." At the same time, he is clear about sticking to his strengths while adapting to what the conditions provide. "First and foremost I think for me it`s not trying to change my game too much -- still try and stick to my strengths but try and adapt to what the conditions give.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rahul-dravids-experience-will-help-india-recover-after-wtc-final-loss-cheteshwar-pujara-431404">Rahul Dravid's experience will help India recover after WTC final loss: Cheteshwar Pujara</a>

"If I do play and get the new ball, it`s trying to swing that and as the conditions change and the roles change throughout the game, try to focus on that." 
 
The 26-year-old added that not playing a single match in the T20 World Cup helped him focus on himself. "It was good to be part of and gave me a chance to step back, with the volume of cricket I`d been playing, a chance to work on my game and get back in the gym with Chris (Donaldson, the strength and conditioning coach)."

New Zealand all-rounder Kyle Jamieson feels that playing Test cricket in India will be a different challenge, considering he is touring the country for the first time.

New Zealand all-rounder Kyle Jamieson feels that playing Test cricket in India will be a different challenge, considering he is touring the country for the first time. He added that he will seek ideas from senior pacers Neil Wagner and Tim Southee on how to bowl in Indian conditions. "I haven`t played a whole lot of cricket over here. I had the first half of the IPL which was good, but this will be different again. I`ve got Wags (Wagner) and Timmy (Southee) here, so that`ll be good to bounce ideas of them, to get their expertise on how to bowl here. It`s certainly going to be a different challenge to what we get back home but really looking forward to it," Jamieson was quoted as saying by stuff.co.nz. ALSO READ | Former Pak captain praises Rahul Dravid for his 'was never going to be easy on NZ' remark post T20I series Jamieson played an instrumental role in New Zealand winning the last three Tests against India, including the World Test Championship final in Southampton in June this year. But with Southee and Wagner in the squad, he might not be a part of the playing eleven in the first Test at Green Park Stadium here on Thursday. The all-rounder, who made a blazing start to Test cricket with 46 wickets in just eight appearances at an average of 14.17, including five five-wicket hauls, is aware that playing Test cricket in India will pose a hard challenge as New Zealand begins its defence of WTC title. "It certainly feels a long time ago. No better way to start than the challenge of India in India." At the same time, he is clear about sticking to his strengths while adapting to what the conditions provide. "First and foremost I think for me it`s not trying to change my game too much -- still try and stick to my strengths but try and adapt to what the conditions give. ALSO READ | Rahul Dravid's experience will help India recover after WTC final loss: Cheteshwar Pujara "If I do play and get the new ball, it`s trying to swing that and as the conditions change and the roles change throughout the game, try to focus on that." The 26-year-old added that not playing a single match in the T20 World Cup helped him focus on himself. "It was good to be part of and gave me a chance to step back, with the volume of cricket I`d been playing, a chance to work on my game and get back in the gym with Chris (Donaldson, the strength and conditioning coach)."

IND v NZ, 1st Test: Going to be different challenge to what we get back home, says Kyle Jamieson

Rohit Sharma-Rahul Dravid's pairing started off with a bang as India whitewashed New Zealand in the three T20Is. While the two-match Test series between both sides will see Ajinkya Rahane lead in the series opener, regular captain Virat Kohli will join forces with newly-appointed head coach Dravid and hope to form a formidable captain-coach pair in Tests and ODIs.

Ahead of the first Test between India and New Zealand, at Green Park, Kanpur, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan stated that he feels confident of the Dravid-Kohli partnership. Despite their contrasting personalities, Pathan feels there will be great understanding and communication between Dravid and Kohli, who is now India's captain in Test and ODI format.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/there-wont-be-any-unfair-treatment-harbhajan-points-out-changes-rahul-dravid-will-bring-in-team-india-431619">There won't be any unfair treatment: Harbhajan points out changes Rahul Dravid will bring in Team India</a>

Irfan said on Star Sports, "This will be a new partnership between Rahul Dravid as well as Virat Kohli, the captain. Especially in the longer format, I don't see any problem because Rahul Dravid is a kind of guy who likes to come into the system, he doesn't change the system much. Now obviously, he's a very technical - tactical guy but he will not disrupt, he never used to disrupt even when he was captain, he always used to help boost the confidence of the player.&nbsp;

“One thing is for sure, there will be a great understanding and communication in this partnership, along with this youth players will be given as much importance as a senior player gets in the team. I'm not saying that this did not happen before but I have played under Rahul Dravid and this was very noticeable, if there was any young player in the team it was not hard to help them get into the team and it was solely due to Rahul Dravid’s mentality,” he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-1st-test-with-shreyas-iyer-set-to-debut-predicting-team-indias-xi-for-series-opener-in-kanpur-431578">IND vs NZ, 1st Test: With Shreyas Iyer set to debut, predicting Team India's XI for series opener in Kanpur</a>

Before Dravid came into the picture, Kohli formed a strong partnership with Ravi Shastri, Dravid's predecessor. Under Shastri-Kohli, India gained new heights across formats and played the semi-finals of the 2019 ODI World Cup and final of the inaugural WTC. However, they couldn't win an ICC title. Hence, Dravid will be eager to take India to an ICC trophy along with Kohli in the longer formats and also achieve similar success with T20I captain Rohit.&nbsp;

Rohit Sharma-Rahul Dravid's pairing started off with a bang as India whitewashed New Zealand in the three T20Is. While the two-match Test series between both sides will see Ajinkya Rahane lead in the series opener, regular captain Virat Kohli will join forces with newly-appointed head coach Dravid and hope to form a formidable captain-coach pair in Tests and ODIs.

Rohit Sharma-Rahul Dravid's pairing started off with a bang as India whitewashed New Zealand in the three T20Is. While the two-match Test series between both sides will see Ajinkya Rahane lead in the series opener, regular captain Virat Kohli will join forces with newly-appointed head coach Dravid and hope to form a formidable captain-coach pair in Tests and ODIs. Ahead of the first Test between India and New Zealand, at Green Park, Kanpur, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan stated that he feels confident of the Dravid-Kohli partnership. Despite their contrasting personalities, Pathan feels there will be great understanding and communication between Dravid and Kohli, who is now India's captain in Test and ODI format. ALSO READ | There won't be any unfair treatment: Harbhajan points out changes Rahul Dravid will bring in Team India Irfan said on Star Sports, "This will be a new partnership between Rahul Dravid as well as Virat Kohli, the captain. Especially in the longer format, I don't see any problem because Rahul Dravid is a kind of guy who likes to come into the system, he doesn't change the system much. Now obviously, he's a very technical - tactical guy but he will not disrupt, he never used to disrupt even when he was captain, he always used to help boost the confidence of the player. “One thing is for sure, there will be a great understanding and communication in this partnership, along with this youth players will be given as much importance as a senior player gets in the team. I'm not saying that this did not happen before but I have played under Rahul Dravid and this was very noticeable, if there was any young player in the team it was not hard to help them get into the team and it was solely due to Rahul Dravid’s mentality,” he added. ALSO READ | IND vs NZ, 1st Test: With Shreyas Iyer set to debut, predicting Team India's XI for series opener in Kanpur Before Dravid came into the picture, Kohli formed a strong partnership with Ravi Shastri, Dravid's predecessor. Under Shastri-Kohli, India gained new heights across formats and played the semi-finals of the 2019 ODI World Cup and final of the inaugural WTC. However, they couldn't win an ICC title. Hence, Dravid will be eager to take India to an ICC trophy along with Kohli in the longer formats and also achieve similar success with T20I captain Rohit.

'There will be great understanding and...' - Irfan Pathan confident of Rahul Dravid-Virat Kohli partnership

Rahul Dravid has taken over as Team India's head coach from Ravi Shastri after the former Indian all-rounder's tenure came to an end post the T20 World Cup. Under Shastri, India enjoyed considerable success across formats but couldn't end their ICC-trophy drought. Hence, Dravid is expected to turn things around and lead India to an ICC title, with their last major trophy coming in 2013.

Dravid has started with a bang by guiding the Indian team to a 3-0 whitewash over New Zealand in three T20Is. Ahead of the two-match Test series between India and the Black Caps, at home, veteran off-spinner Harbhajan Singh has pointed out what changes one will be able to see in the Dravid-era.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-1st-test-live-streaming-when-and-where-to-watch-india-vs-new-zealand-match-live-online-431598">IND vs NZ, 1st Test live streaming: When and where to watch India vs New Zealand match live online?</a>

Speaking to Star Sports, Harbhajan said, "See, the combination will obviously take some time for everyone to adjust to with new things, new processes that Rahul will bring onto the table and I think the triangle of these three is joined to one another, Rahul with Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. I think they should be working together and take Indian cricket to new heights."

"With Rahul coming in, I can tell you that players will be given a lot of assurance. Players will be given good chances, there won't be any unfair treatment and you’ll be left out of the team, they will be given proper opportunities and that’s what Rahul Dravid will bring onto the table. He will bring a lot of stability to the team," added Harbhajan.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-1st-test-with-shreyas-iyer-set-to-debut-predicting-team-indias-xi-for-series-opener-in-kanpur-431578">IND vs NZ, 1st Test: With Shreyas Iyer set to debut, predicting Team India's XI for series opener in Kanpur</a>

Dravid-coached India will take on Kane Williamson-led New Zealand in the two-match Test series opener on Thursday (November 25) in Kanpur. While Ajinkya Rahane-led India will be without many of their key players -- regular captain Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, etc. -- they will still start as favourites and look to avenge their WTC final loss versus the Kiwis.&nbsp;

For the unversed, Dravid has been appointed as India's coach till 2023 ODI World Cup. Hence, he has quite a big task on his shoulders to end India's ICC-title drought with mega events lined-up in each year.

Rahul Dravid has taken over as Team India's head coach from Ravi Shastri after the former Indian all-rounder's tenure came to an end post the T20 World Cup. Under Shastri, India enjoyed considerable success across formats but couldn't end their ICC-trophy drought.

Rahul Dravid has taken over as Team India's head coach from Ravi Shastri after the former Indian all-rounder's tenure came to an end post the T20 World Cup. Under Shastri, India enjoyed considerable success across formats but couldn't end their ICC-trophy drought. Hence, Dravid is expected to turn things around and lead India to an ICC title, with their last major trophy coming in 2013. Dravid has started with a bang by guiding the Indian team to a 3-0 whitewash over New Zealand in three T20Is. Ahead of the two-match Test series between India and the Black Caps, at home, veteran off-spinner Harbhajan Singh has pointed out what changes one will be able to see in the Dravid-era. ALSO READ | IND vs NZ, 1st Test live streaming: When and where to watch India vs New Zealand match live online? Speaking to Star Sports, Harbhajan said, "See, the combination will obviously take some time for everyone to adjust to with new things, new processes that Rahul will bring onto the table and I think the triangle of these three is joined to one another, Rahul with Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. I think they should be working together and take Indian cricket to new heights." "With Rahul coming in, I can tell you that players will be given a lot of assurance. Players will be given good chances, there won't be any unfair treatment and you’ll be left out of the team, they will be given proper opportunities and that’s what Rahul Dravid will bring onto the table. He will bring a lot of stability to the team," added Harbhajan. ALSO READ | IND vs NZ, 1st Test: With Shreyas Iyer set to debut, predicting Team India's XI for series opener in Kanpur Dravid-coached India will take on Kane Williamson-led New Zealand in the two-match Test series opener on Thursday (November 25) in Kanpur. While Ajinkya Rahane-led India will be without many of their key players -- regular captain Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, etc. -- they will still start as favourites and look to avenge their WTC final loss versus the Kiwis. For the unversed, Dravid has been appointed as India's coach till 2023 ODI World Cup. Hence, he has quite a big task on his shoulders to end India's ICC-title drought with mega events lined-up in each year.

There won't be any unfair treatment: Harbhajan points out changes Rahul Dravid will bring in Team India

Team India will face Kane Williamson-led New Zealand in the series opener of the two-match Test series at Green Park Stadium, Kanpur on Thursday (November 25). The Test series will be India's first-ever under new head coach Rahul Dravid and the national side will be eager to continue their dominant run in the purest format under the former Indian captain.

With the series being a part of the second cycle of the WTC, both sides have plenty to play for. For India, the hosts are without some of their big guns such as regular captain Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah and Rishabh Pant whereas the likes of Mayank Agarwal, Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer, Mohammed Siraj, Axar Patel, etc. will like to make the most of their opportunities with the key players rested.&nbsp;

Among the experienced lot, the onus will be on stand-in captain Ajinkya Rahane, vice-captain Cheteshwar Pujara, Ravindra Jadeja and R Ashwin. Talking about the Kiwis, they are a formidable unit with Williamson, Ross Taylor, Henry Nicholls, Trent Boult, Tim Southee, Neil Wagner, Mitchell Santner having ample experience. Nonetheless, they will have to adjust to the contrasting conditions and the SG ball on offer in Indian conditions.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-1st-test-prediction-who-will-win-series-opener-between-india-and-new-zealand-in-kanpur-431566">IND vs NZ, 1st Test prediction: Who will win series opener between India and New Zealand in Kanpur?</a>

Ahead of the series opener, Rahane told at a presser on Wednesday, "Shreyas Iyer is going to make his debut." Hence, here's predicting India's line-up for the first Test in Kanpur:

The top-order will comprise Mayank and Gill, with KL Rahul ruled out due to injury. Pujara, Shreyas Iyer and Rahane will form the middle order with Ashwin, Jadeja, Axar and Wriddhiman Saha following suit. Mohammed Siraj and Umesh Yadav are expected to form the pace unit.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-has-no-role-in-it-treasurer-arun-dhumal-reacts-as-board-faces-backlash-over-diet-plan-with-halal-meat-431468">BCCI has no role in it: Treasurer Arun Dhumal reacts as board faces backlash over diet plan with halal meat</a>

While Ishant Sharma can get the nod either ahead of Umesh or Axar, Rahul Dravid-led thinktank is very likely to go ahead with three spinners at home (sticking to their strengths). In addition, Axar's form is exemplary whereas Umesh has a good record at home and, hence, both are unlikely to be overlooked.

Predicting India's XI for first Test vs NZ: Mayank Agarwal, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara (vc), Shreyas Iyer, Ajinkya Rahane (c), Wriddhiman Saha (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, R Ashwin, Axar Patel, Umesh Yadav, Mohammed Siraj

Team India will face Kane Williamson-led New Zealand in the series opener of the two-match Test series at Green Park Stadium, Kanpur on Thursday (November 25). The Test series will be India's first-ever under new head coach Rahul Dravid and the national side will be eager to continue their dominant run in the purest format under the former Indian captain.

Team India will face Kane Williamson-led New Zealand in the series opener of the two-match Test series at Green Park Stadium, Kanpur on Thursday (November 25). The Test series will be India's first-ever under new head coach Rahul Dravid and the national side will be eager to continue their dominant run in the purest format under the former Indian captain. With the series being a part of the second cycle of the WTC, both sides have plenty to play for. For India, the hosts are without some of their big guns such as regular captain Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah and Rishabh Pant whereas the likes of Mayank Agarwal, Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer, Mohammed Siraj, Axar Patel, etc. will like to make the most of their opportunities with the key players rested. Among the experienced lot, the onus will be on stand-in captain Ajinkya Rahane, vice-captain Cheteshwar Pujara, Ravindra Jadeja and R Ashwin. Talking about the Kiwis, they are a formidable unit with Williamson, Ross Taylor, Henry Nicholls, Trent Boult, Tim Southee, Neil Wagner, Mitchell Santner having ample experience. Nonetheless, they will have to adjust to the contrasting conditions and the SG ball on offer in Indian conditions. ALSO READ | IND vs NZ, 1st Test prediction: Who will win series opener between India and New Zealand in Kanpur? Ahead of the series opener, Rahane told at a presser on Wednesday, "Shreyas Iyer is going to make his debut." Hence, here's predicting India's line-up for the first Test in Kanpur: The top-order will comprise Mayank and Gill, with KL Rahul ruled out due to injury. Pujara, Shreyas Iyer and Rahane will form the middle order with Ashwin, Jadeja, Axar and Wriddhiman Saha following suit. Mohammed Siraj and Umesh Yadav are expected to form the pace unit. ALSO READ | BCCI has no role in it: Treasurer Arun Dhumal reacts as board faces backlash over diet plan with halal meat While Ishant Sharma can get the nod either ahead of Umesh or Axar, Rahul Dravid-led thinktank is very likely to go ahead with three spinners at home (sticking to their strengths). In addition, Axar's form is exemplary whereas Umesh has a good record at home and, hence, both are unlikely to be overlooked. Predicting India's XI for first Test vs NZ: Mayank Agarwal, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara (vc), Shreyas Iyer, Ajinkya Rahane (c), Wriddhiman Saha (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, R Ashwin, Axar Patel, Umesh Yadav, Mohammed Siraj

IND vs NZ, 1st Test: With Shreyas Iyer set to debut, predicting Team India's XI for series opener in Kanpur

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) treasurer Arun Dhumal has clarified that the board has no role in determining the food choices of the players after the latest controversy over the new dietary plan of the Indian team. Dhumal said the players are free to choose what they want to eat and what they don't want to eat. 
&nbsp; 
In their dietary plan for the upcoming first Test of the two-match series against New Zealand in Kanpur, the Indan team management had requested strictly no pork and beef for the players. The catering request also clearly mentioned that the players will consume only halal meat.

Soon the dietary plan became a major talking point on social media with many dragging BCCI into the controversy and questioning the board over dictating the food choices of the players. Some also blamed for promoting halal meat. However, Dhumal clarified that the board has no role in creating the diet plan and it must have been made at the request of the players.

"This (diet plan) has never been discussed and will not be enforced. I don't know when this decision was taken or if it was. As far as I know, we never issued any guidelines related to diet plans. As far as food habits are concerned, it is the individual choice of players, BCCI has no role in it," the BCCI treasurer was quoted as saying by India Today.

"This 'halal' thing may have happened on any player's feedback at some point in time. For example, if a player says he doesn't eat beef and if a foreign team comes then the food should not be mixed. This halal issue has never been brought to BCCI's attention. The BCCI doesn't advise any of its players what to eat and what not to eat. Players are free to choose their own food. Whether they want to be vegetarian, it's their choice, whether they want to be vegan, it's their choice, whether they want to be non-vegetarian, it's their choice," he added.

Reports had claimed that it was BCCI's decision to include only halal meat for the players in their new diet regime. However, the dietary plan is only for the Kanpur Test against New Zealand and was shared with the host board - The Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association (UPCA) by the Indian team management.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/team-indias-dietary-plan-with-halal-meat-and-no-beef-pork-only-for-kanpur-test-vs-new-zealand-report-431377">Team India's dietary plan with halal meat and no beef, pork only for Kanpur Test vs NZ - Report</a>

It is a normal procedure for both teams to share their dietary, security and logistics plans with the host board before the start of an international match to ensure the players and staff members don't face any issues. Indian cricket team's menu on overseas tours reportedly often contains a directive to have halal meat on the menu.

While BCCI had no role in sharing the diet plan, the board was targeted online with several accusations surrounding the compulsion of only halal meat for the players in the Indian team for the New Zealand series.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) treasurer Arun Dhumal has clarified that the board has no role in determining the food choices of the players after the latest controversy over the new dietary plan of the Indian team.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) treasurer Arun Dhumal has clarified that the board has no role in determining the food choices of the players after the latest controversy over the new dietary plan of the Indian team. Dhumal said the players are free to choose what they want to eat and what they don't want to eat. In their dietary plan for the upcoming first Test of the two-match series against New Zealand in Kanpur, the Indan team management had requested strictly no pork and beef for the players. The catering request also clearly mentioned that the players will consume only halal meat. Soon the dietary plan became a major talking point on social media with many dragging BCCI into the controversy and questioning the board over dictating the food choices of the players. Some also blamed for promoting halal meat. However, Dhumal clarified that the board has no role in creating the diet plan and it must have been made at the request of the players. "This (diet plan) has never been discussed and will not be enforced. I don't know when this decision was taken or if it was. As far as I know, we never issued any guidelines related to diet plans. As far as food habits are concerned, it is the individual choice of players, BCCI has no role in it," the BCCI treasurer was quoted as saying by India Today. "This 'halal' thing may have happened on any player's feedback at some point in time. For example, if a player says he doesn't eat beef and if a foreign team comes then the food should not be mixed. This halal issue has never been brought to BCCI's attention. The BCCI doesn't advise any of its players what to eat and what not to eat. Players are free to choose their own food. Whether they want to be vegetarian, it's their choice, whether they want to be vegan, it's their choice, whether they want to be non-vegetarian, it's their choice," he added. Reports had claimed that it was BCCI's decision to include only halal meat for the players in their new diet regime. However, the dietary plan is only for the Kanpur Test against New Zealand and was shared with the host board - The Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association (UPCA) by the Indian team management. Also Read: Team India's dietary plan with halal meat and no beef, pork only for Kanpur Test vs NZ - Report It is a normal procedure for both teams to share their dietary, security and logistics plans with the host board before the start of an international match to ensure the players and staff members don't face any issues. Indian cricket team's menu on overseas tours reportedly often contains a directive to have halal meat on the menu. While BCCI had no role in sharing the diet plan, the board was targeted online with several accusations surrounding the compulsion of only halal meat for the players in the Indian team for the New Zealand series.

BCCI has no role in it: Treasurer Arun Dhumal reacts as board faces backlash over diet plan with halal meat

Rohit Sharma-led Team India thrashed New Zealand 3-0 in the three T20Is. Following the T20 World Cup debacle, the Men in Blue beat the Black Caps to kick off a new era in Indian cricket. Post the T20 WC, there have been wholesome changes in the Indian cricket with head coach Ravi Shastri, bowling coach Bharat Arun and fielding coach R Sridhar stepping aside from their respective posts.&nbsp;

Hence, Rahul Dravid has stepped in as the head coach whereas Rohit took over from Virat Kohli as India's captain in the shortest format. In Dravid-Rohit's first assignment, India emerged on top of the Kiwis and whitewashed the T20 WC 2021's runners-up. However, Dravid won hearts when he recently praised the Kiwis and said that it was always going to be tough on them to prepare and fight in&nbsp;the bilateral T20Is, after getting only a three-day gap post the&nbsp;World Cup final.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kl-rahul-ruled-out-of-nz-tests-due-to-injury-suryakumar-yadav-named-replacement-431388">KL Rahul ruled out of NZ Tests due to injury, Suryakumar Yadav named replacement</a>

Dravid told broadcasters Star Sports after the third T20I in Kolkata, "We have to keep our feet on the ground and be realistic, especially with bigger things down the line in the next 12 months. It's not easy for New Zealand to play a World Cup final, turn up three days later, and play three games in six days. We knew it was never going to be easy on them."

Hence, former Pakistan captain Salman Butt has lavished praise on Dravid. Speaking on his Youtube channel, Butt said, "It only reflects utmost clarity and humility. And very realistic and professional talk because India did win but the other team just came from a World Cup final and hence it is not easy to mentally prepare for another international series so fast. They (New Zealand) also lost the toss. When you play so much international cricket, there is a difference in intensity as well. So he did take all these factors into account when making that statement. Yes India tested their bench strength, there was a new captain, new coach and they managed to win. But he is keeping them in line for the hunt. The actual target is the next target which will be in the next 10 months. So this is absolutely the correct and needed approach."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-easy-for-nz-to-rahul-dravid-sympathises-with-black-caps-after-india-whitewash-t20i-series-431220">'Not easy for NZ to...' - Rahul Dravid sympathises with Black Caps after India whitewash T20I series</a>

Post the T20Is, India will now look to dominate the Kane Williamson-led Kiwis in the two-match Test series, starting from November 25 (Thursday) in Kanpur. The first Test will see Ajinkya Rahane lead the side whereas regular captain Virat Kohli is expected to join forces with head coach Dravid for the second and final Test, which will be held at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on December 3.

Rohit Sharma-led Team India thrashed New Zealand 3-0 in the three T20Is. Following the T20 World Cup debacle, the Men in Blue beat the Black Caps to kick off a new era in Indian cricket.

Rohit Sharma-led Team India thrashed New Zealand 3-0 in the three T20Is. Following the T20 World Cup debacle, the Men in Blue beat the Black Caps to kick off a new era in Indian cricket. Post the T20 WC, there have been wholesome changes in the Indian cricket with head coach Ravi Shastri, bowling coach Bharat Arun and fielding coach R Sridhar stepping aside from their respective posts. Hence, Rahul Dravid has stepped in as the head coach whereas Rohit took over from Virat Kohli as India's captain in the shortest format. In Dravid-Rohit's first assignment, India emerged on top of the Kiwis and whitewashed the T20 WC 2021's runners-up. However, Dravid won hearts when he recently praised the Kiwis and said that it was always going to be tough on them to prepare and fight in the bilateral T20Is, after getting only a three-day gap post the World Cup final. ALSO READ | KL Rahul ruled out of NZ Tests due to injury, Suryakumar Yadav named replacement Dravid told broadcasters Star Sports after the third T20I in Kolkata, "We have to keep our feet on the ground and be realistic, especially with bigger things down the line in the next 12 months. It's not easy for New Zealand to play a World Cup final, turn up three days later, and play three games in six days. We knew it was never going to be easy on them." Hence, former Pakistan captain Salman Butt has lavished praise on Dravid. Speaking on his Youtube channel, Butt said, "It only reflects utmost clarity and humility. And very realistic and professional talk because India did win but the other team just came from a World Cup final and hence it is not easy to mentally prepare for another international series so fast. They (New Zealand) also lost the toss. When you play so much international cricket, there is a difference in intensity as well. So he did take all these factors into account when making that statement. Yes India tested their bench strength, there was a new captain, new coach and they managed to win. But he is keeping them in line for the hunt. The actual target is the next target which will be in the next 10 months. So this is absolutely the correct and needed approach." ALSO READ | 'Not easy for NZ to...' - Rahul Dravid sympathises with Black Caps after India whitewash T20I series Post the T20Is, India will now look to dominate the Kane Williamson-led Kiwis in the two-match Test series, starting from November 25 (Thursday) in Kanpur. The first Test will see Ajinkya Rahane lead the side whereas regular captain Virat Kohli is expected to join forces with head coach Dravid for the second and final Test, which will be held at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on December 3.

Former Pak captain praises Rahul Dravid for his 'was never going to be easy on NZ' remark post T20I series

Team India bounced back with a 3-0 clean sweep of New Zealand in the recently-concluded T20 series after a disappointing campaign at the T20 World Cup 2021. It was a clinical performance from the hosts throughout the series as they won all three games in a row against the T20 World Cup finalists to kick start the new era of Indian cricket under head coach Rahul Dravid and captain Rohit Sharma with a win.

While the team's performance was lauded by many on social media, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) got embroiled in a fresh controversy after a report claimed the BCCI&nbsp;has banned beef and pork in any form in the new strict diet regimen for the Indian men's cricket team. The report also stated that the players have been asked to consume meat only in halal form.

However, the dietary plan has been shared by the Indian team management and not the BCCI for the upcoming first Test against New Zealand in Kanpur that starts from November 25 (Thursday). As per a report in India Today,&nbsp;"No pork and beef whatsoever in any form and variety. All meat must be Halal," is written as part of the catering requirements for Team India for the Kanpur Test and marked as 'important'.

Fans have been left irked by the Indian team management's&nbsp;decision to ban all other forms of meat except halal, with many claiming it is against Hindus as eating halal meat is forbidden and against the religion. Fans also dragged BCCI into the controversy slamming the board over the dietary plan.

There are two ways of slaughtering an animal - the halal method where the animal is given a cut and is left to bleed slowly, and the jhatka method where the animal is slaughtered in one go. Muslims consume only halal meat and&nbsp;abstain&nbsp;from eating any other type of meat.&nbsp;

However, as per India Today, the dietary plan has not come from the BCCI but the team management, which has to share the dietary plan along with security and logistics with the host board. The Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association is the host board for the first Test which will be played in Kanpur. It is a regular procedure to share the security, diet and logistics plans with the host board before an international game.

Nonetheless, fans on Twitter have accused the BCCI of promoting halal meat after the details of their new dietary plan were reported.

Here's how Twitter reacted to halal met being made compulsory for Team India:

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As per reports, cricketers of 'SECULAR' India's national team will be able to eat only ‘Halal certified’ meat as per new diet plan ! 
 
Question to <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@bcci</a> is when most of the players in Indian team are non-Muslims, then why HALAL is being imposed on them ?<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BCCI_Promotes_Halal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BCCI_Promotes_Halal</a> <a href="https://t.co/FPwxnuoEPB">pic.twitter.com/FPwxnuoEPB</a>
— 𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬𝐡🇮🇳 (@2prithish) <a href="https://twitter.com/2prithish/status/1462880397457383426?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 22, 2021</a></blockquote>
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As per reports, cricketers of 'SECULAR' India's national team will be able to eat only ‘Halal certified’ meat as per new diet plan ! 
 
Question to <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@bcci</a> is when most of the players in Indian team are non-Muslims, then why HALAL is being imposed on them ?<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BoycottHalalProducts?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BoycottHalalProducts</a> <a href="https://t.co/19AlrbIits">pic.twitter.com/19AlrbIits</a>
— HinduJagrutiOrg (@HinduJagrutiOrg) <a href="https://twitter.com/HinduJagrutiOrg/status/1462409703812591618?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 21, 2021</a></blockquote>
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BCCI should not promote Halal at all.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BCCI_Promotes_Halal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BCCI_Promotes_Halal</a>
— Gaurav Goel (@goelgauravbjp) <a href="https://twitter.com/goelgauravbjp/status/1462994762848473092?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 23, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
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There are 28 players contracted by <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@bcci</a> 
 
A+ grade :3 
A grade :10 (1 mu$lim) 
B grade :5 
C grade:10 (1 mu$lim) 
 
2 out of 28 (3.4%) are Mu$lims; But for them all other 26 players will also get Halal certified food. 
 
Why Halal is mandatory in a secular india?<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BCCI_Promotes_Halal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BCCI_Promotes_Halal</a> <a href="https://t.co/Y4ZMr35dOG">pic.twitter.com/Y4ZMr35dOG</a>
— Sandeep Shinde (@sanatandeep_) <a href="https://twitter.com/sanatandeep_/status/1462988097444990976?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 23, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-rahul-dravid-applauds-fielding-coach-after-ishan-kishans-direct-hit-dismisses-nzs-mitchell-santner-431369">Dravid applauds fielding coach after Ishan Kishan's direct hit dismisses&nbsp;Santner - WATCH</a>

A dietary plan is shared every time the Indian team travels overseas as well for tournaments or series and the menu reportedly has directives for halal meat most of the time. It is also to be noted that the current Indian Test squad has a Muslim player.

Rohit-led India defeated New Zealand by a big margin of 73 runs in the third and final T20I of the series at the Eden Gardens on Sunday to register a clean sweep against the Kiwis. Batting first, India posted a strong total of 184 runs on the board before Axar Patel and Harshal Patel combined to run riot with the ball.

The duo picked up five wickets between them to bundle out the Kiwis for a paltry 111 and help India register a huge win and clinch the series 3-0. India will now play a two-match Test series against New Zealand which gets underway from Thursday (November 25).

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Team India bounced back with a 3-0 clean sweep of New Zealand in the recently-concluded T20 series after a disappointing campaign at the T20 World Cup 2021. It was a clinical performance from the hosts throughout the series as they won all three games in a row against the T20 World Cup finalists to kick start the new era of Indian cricket under head coach Rahul Dravid and captain Rohit Sharma with a win.

Team India bounced back with a 3-0 clean sweep of New Zealand in the recently-concluded T20 series after a disappointing campaign at the T20 World Cup 2021. It was a clinical performance from the hosts throughout the series as they won all three games in a row against the T20 World Cup finalists to kick start the new era of Indian cricket under head coach Rahul Dravid and captain Rohit Sharma with a win. While the team's performance was lauded by many on social media, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) got embroiled in a fresh controversy after a report claimed the BCCI has banned beef and pork in any form in the new strict diet regimen for the Indian men's cricket team. The report also stated that the players have been asked to consume meat only in halal form. However, the dietary plan has been shared by the Indian team management and not the BCCI for the upcoming first Test against New Zealand in Kanpur that starts from November 25 (Thursday). As per a report in India Today, "No pork and beef whatsoever in any form and variety. All meat must be Halal," is written as part of the catering requirements for Team India for the Kanpur Test and marked as 'important'. Fans have been left irked by the Indian team management's decision to ban all other forms of meat except halal, with many claiming it is against Hindus as eating halal meat is forbidden and against the religion. Fans also dragged BCCI into the controversy slamming the board over the dietary plan. There are two ways of slaughtering an animal - the halal method where the animal is given a cut and is left to bleed slowly, and the jhatka method where the animal is slaughtered in one go. Muslims consume only halal meat and abstain from eating any other type of meat. However, as per India Today, the dietary plan has not come from the BCCI but the team management, which has to share the dietary plan along with security and logistics with the host board. The Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association is the host board for the first Test which will be played in Kanpur. It is a regular procedure to share the security, diet and logistics plans with the host board before an international game. Nonetheless, fans on Twitter have accused the BCCI of promoting halal meat after the details of their new dietary plan were reported. Here's how Twitter reacted to halal met being made compulsory for Team India: As per reports, cricketers of 'SECULAR' India's national team will be able to eat only ‘Halal certified’ meat as per new diet plan ! Question to @bcci is when most of the players in Indian team are non-Muslims, then why HALAL is being imposed on them ?#BCCI_Promotes_Halal pic.twitter.com/FPwxnuoEPB — 𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬𝐡🇮🇳 (@2prithish) November 22, 2021 × As per reports, cricketers of 'SECULAR' India's national team will be able to eat only ‘Halal certified’ meat as per new diet plan ! Question to @bcci is when most of the players in Indian team are non-Muslims, then why HALAL is being imposed on them ?#BoycottHalalProducts pic.twitter.com/19AlrbIits — HinduJagrutiOrg (@HinduJagrutiOrg) November 21, 2021 × BCCI should not promote Halal at all.#BCCI_Promotes_Halal — Gaurav Goel (@goelgauravbjp) November 23, 2021 × There are 28 players contracted by @bcci A+ grade :3 A grade :10 (1 mu$lim) B grade :5 C grade:10 (1 mu$lim) 2 out of 28 (3.4%) are Mu$lims; But for them all other 26 players will also get Halal certified food. Why Halal is mandatory in a secular india?#BCCI_Promotes_Halal pic.twitter.com/Y4ZMr35dOG — Sandeep Shinde (@sanatandeep_) November 23, 2021 × Also Read: Dravid applauds fielding coach after Ishan Kishan's direct hit dismisses Santner - WATCH A dietary plan is shared every time the Indian team travels overseas as well for tournaments or series and the menu reportedly has directives for halal meat most of the time. It is also to be noted that the current Indian Test squad has a Muslim player. Rohit-led India defeated New Zealand by a big margin of 73 runs in the third and final T20I of the series at the Eden Gardens on Sunday to register a clean sweep against the Kiwis. Batting first, India posted a strong total of 184 runs on the board before Axar Patel and Harshal Patel combined to run riot with the ball. The duo picked up five wickets between them to bundle out the Kiwis for a paltry 111 and help India register a huge win and clinch the series 3-0. India will now play a two-match Test series against New Zealand which gets underway from Thursday (November 25).

Team India's dietary plan with halal meat and no beef, pork only for Kanpur Test vs New Zealand - Report

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