<p>Dy 1 of thw World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand was abandoned without a ball being bowled after heavy showers delayed the highly-anticipated clash. Former England skipper Michael Vaughan's has irked several Indian fans after taking a dig at Virat and Co. in a cheeky tweet.&nbsp;</p>

<p><b>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</b><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-reserve-day-will-be-used-in-india-vs-new-zealand-clash-as-rain-wipes-off-day-1-392438" hreflang="en">WTC Final: Reserve day will be used in India vs New Zealand clash as rain wipes off Day 1</a></p>

<p>"I see India have been saved by the weather …. #WorldTestChampionship,” tweeted Vaughan.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I see India have been saved by the weather …. 😜 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WorldTestChampionship?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WorldTestChampionship</a></p>
— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) <a href="https://twitter.com/MichaelVaughan/status/1405838104213196800?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 18, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>The tweet attracted a lot of reaction from several Team India fans where they trolled Vaughan for his comments.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">England had been saved in the WC by Umpires and boundary count lmaoo.</p>
— Jay. (@peak_Ability18) <a href="https://twitter.com/peak_Ability18/status/1405838392680607745?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 18, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">It's a shame for ur team that final is played in ENGLAND and England team will be watching it on tv .icc would have atleast given them tickets so that they cheer for INDIA from stands 😂😂</p>
— Bharat Chauhan (@BharatC21085526) <a href="https://twitter.com/BharatC21085526/status/1405841195868123139?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 18, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Vaughan is known for engaging with Indian fans in the past. The former England skipper was trolled for predicting that Australia will clean up India in the Test series, whereas, the Men in Blue ended up winning a thriller. He also was trolled for questioning the Indian pitches used during England's Tour of India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier, Vaughan had predicted that Kane Williamson and Co. will be victorious in the inaugural World Test Championship final.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The juggernaut clash between India and New Zealand was set to kick-off at 3 PM (IST), however, heavy downpour, kept delaying the match. After losing more than three hours on an opening day, the play has finally been called off.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Day 1 of the highly-anticipated was abandoned without a toss. With this, all hopes rely on the reserve day set by ICC on June 23 that will be used to make up for lost overs and time due to rains.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Team India announced their playing XI, a day ahead of the clash, but could make changes as the toss did not take place.</p>


Dy 1 of thw World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand was abandoned without a ball being bowled after heavy showers delayed the highly-anticipated clash.

Dy 1 of thw World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand was abandoned without a ball being bowled after heavy showers delayed the highly-anticipated clash. Former England skipper Michael Vaughan's has irked several Indian fans after taking a dig at Virat and Co. in a cheeky tweet. ALSO READ: WTC Final: Reserve day will be used in India vs New Zealand clash as rain wipes off Day 1 "I see India have been saved by the weather …. #WorldTestChampionship,” tweeted Vaughan. I see India have been saved by the weather …. 😜 #WorldTestChampionship — Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) June 18, 2021 × The tweet attracted a lot of reaction from several Team India fans where they trolled Vaughan for his comments. England had been saved in the WC by Umpires and boundary count lmaoo. — Jay. (@peak_Ability18) June 18, 2021 × It's a shame for ur team that final is played in ENGLAND and England team will be watching it on tv .icc would have atleast given them tickets so that they cheer for INDIA from stands 😂😂 — Bharat Chauhan (@BharatC21085526) June 18, 2021 × Vaughan is known for engaging with Indian fans in the past. The former England skipper was trolled for predicting that Australia will clean up India in the Test series, whereas, the Men in Blue ended up winning a thriller. He also was trolled for questioning the Indian pitches used during England's Tour of India. Earlier, Vaughan had predicted that Kane Williamson and Co. will be victorious in the inaugural World Test Championship final. The juggernaut clash between India and New Zealand was set to kick-off at 3 PM (IST), however, heavy downpour, kept delaying the match. After losing more than three hours on an opening day, the play has finally been called off. The Day 1 of the highly-anticipated was abandoned without a toss. With this, all hopes rely on the reserve day set by ICC on June 23 that will be used to make up for lost overs and time due to rains. Team India announced their playing XI, a day ahead of the clash, but could make changes as the toss did not take place.

Cricket: Several Indian fans irked by Michael Vaughan's cheeky dig on Twitter

<p>Former India batsman turned commentator Sanjay Manjrekar has said that it would be better for Virat Kohli if he loses the toss in the World Test Championship final against New Zealand that is set to kick off at the Rose Bowl in Southampton on Friday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The toss is an interesting thing. Players, when they go for the toss and there are overcast conditions and expect it to be there for the first couple of hours. They look at the pitch that has a nice, healthy cover of grass. No pitch in England would be devoid of grass. Some would be dry but there would be grass. So when you look at the overcast conditions, you're tempted to bowl first, especially a team like India, with no match practice and batting being a little vulnerable," Manjrekar said on ESPNCricinfo.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-test-championship-a-very-positive-step-in-the-right-direction-says-virat-kohli-392315" hreflang="en">World Test Championship a very positive step in the right direction, says Virat Kohli</a></p>

<p>The team batting first has had an advantage in Southampton. Out of six Test matches in Rose Bowl, captains have opted to bat first five times. Out of these five, three have ended up on the winning side. According to Manjrekar, toss will not play a crucial role and will not decide the match.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I don't think toss is going to be crucial. If you win the toss and bat really well, that's a different matter. But if India lose, that will be ideal for them because they'd want to do the right thing and bat first. So I just hope for Virat Kohli's sake that they lose the toss. Of late, in Test cricket, losing tosses have won plenty of matches so it's not the deciding factor," Manjrekar pointed out.</p>


Former India batsman turned commentator Sanjay Manjrekar has said that it would be better for Virat Kohli if he loses the toss in the World Test Championship final against New Zealand that is set to kick off at the Rose Bowl in Southampton on Friday.

Former India batsman turned commentator Sanjay Manjrekar has said that it would be better for Virat Kohli if he loses the toss in the World Test Championship final against New Zealand that is set to kick off at the Rose Bowl in Southampton on Friday. "The toss is an interesting thing. Players, when they go for the toss and there are overcast conditions and expect it to be there for the first couple of hours. They look at the pitch that has a nice, healthy cover of grass. No pitch in England would be devoid of grass. Some would be dry but there would be grass. So when you look at the overcast conditions, you're tempted to bowl first, especially a team like India, with no match practice and batting being a little vulnerable," Manjrekar said on ESPNCricinfo. ALSO READ: World Test Championship a very positive step in the right direction, says Virat Kohli The team batting first has had an advantage in Southampton. Out of six Test matches in Rose Bowl, captains have opted to bat first five times. Out of these five, three have ended up on the winning side. According to Manjrekar, toss will not play a crucial role and will not decide the match. "I don't think toss is going to be crucial. If you win the toss and bat really well, that's a different matter. But if India lose, that will be ideal for them because they'd want to do the right thing and bat first. So I just hope for Virat Kohli's sake that they lose the toss. Of late, in Test cricket, losing tosses have won plenty of matches so it's not the deciding factor," Manjrekar pointed out.

Cricket: 'If India lose toss, that will be ideal for them', says Sanjay Manjrekar ahead of WTC final

<p>Former England skipper Kevin Pietersen feels that Team India does not have enough match practice ahead of the highly-anticipated World Test Championship final clash against New Zealand that will be played at the Rose Bowl.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-youve-got-to-play-the-mind-games-with-virat-says-dale-steyn-392351" hreflang="en">Cricket: 'You've got to play the mind games with Virat', says Dale Steyn</a></p>

<p>According to Pietersen, IPL matches and intra-squad training are not enough to prepare for the Test match.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"New Zealand have had fantastic preparation for this World Test Championship final. They've played two Test matches against England, and basically outplayed them in both. You can't prepare for a Test match in England having been involved in an IPL that was called off a month ago and with no proper warm-up matches at all," Pietersen wrote in his blog for Betway Insider.</p>

<p>New Zealand, on the other hand, played two-match Test series against England before contesting for the Test Mace against India. The Men in Blue have failed to beat the BlackCaps in an ICC event since 2003.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/forecast-is-something-we-are-not-focussed-on-virat-kohli-ahead-of-wtc-final-392370" hreflang="en">'Forecast is something we are not focussed on', Virat Kohli ahead of WTC final</a></p>

<p>"Their (New Zealand's) pace bowling against England was fantastic – Tim Southee at Lord’s and then Matt Henry, who probably won’t even play in this match, at Edgbaston. You only get one or two chances in a one-off Test match, and I fear that India may be behind on their preparation," Pietersen added.</p>


Former England skipper Kevin Pietersen feels that Team India does not have enough match practice ahead of the highly-anticipated World Test Championship final clash against New Zealand that will be played at the Rose Bowl.

Former England skipper Kevin Pietersen feels that Team India does not have enough match practice ahead of the highly-anticipated World Test Championship final clash against New Zealand that will be played at the Rose Bowl. ALSO READ: Cricket: 'You've got to play the mind games with Virat', says Dale Steyn According to Pietersen, IPL matches and intra-squad training are not enough to prepare for the Test match. "New Zealand have had fantastic preparation for this World Test Championship final. They've played two Test matches against England, and basically outplayed them in both. You can't prepare for a Test match in England having been involved in an IPL that was called off a month ago and with no proper warm-up matches at all," Pietersen wrote in his blog for Betway Insider. New Zealand, on the other hand, played two-match Test series against England before contesting for the Test Mace against India. The Men in Blue have failed to beat the BlackCaps in an ICC event since 2003. ALSO READ: 'Forecast is something we are not focussed on', Virat Kohli ahead of WTC final "Their (New Zealand's) pace bowling against England was fantastic – Tim Southee at Lord’s and then Matt Henry, who probably won’t even play in this match, at Edgbaston. You only get one or two chances in a one-off Test match, and I fear that India may be behind on their preparation," Pietersen added.

Cricket: 'India may be behind on their preparation', reckons Kevin Pietersen

<p>Team India has decided to go ahead with three pacers and two spinners as they take on New Zealand in the final showdown of the World Test Championship. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Thursday announced the Team India playing XI before the match that will commence from Friday at the Rose Bowl in Southampton.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-mohammed-siraj-misses-out-as-india-announce-playing-xi-for-wtc-final-392210" hreflang="en">Cricket: Mohammed Siraj misses out as India announce playing XI for WTC Final</a></p>

<p>The batting line-up picks itself with Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill entering the WTC Final as India’s designated openers. Cheteshwar Pujara, skipper Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane and Rishabh Pant complete the batting unit for India in the much-awaited final. Whereas, Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin will fill in for the spin position and also will provide a much-needed depth to the Men in Blue. Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, and Ishant Sharma will be the pacers for the match.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">🚨 NEWS 🚨<br />
<br />
Here's <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a>'s Playing XI for the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WTC21?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WTC21</a> Final 💪 👇 <a href="https://t.co/DiOBAzf88h">pic.twitter.com/DiOBAzf88h</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1405522436850782213?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Twitteratis could not keep calm after BCCI announced playing XI for the World Test Championship final. While most of them were happy with the announcement, there were few who were not pleased with Mohammed Siraj's exclusion. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Let's take a look at some of the reaction.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Best 11🥵, let's end Kiwis now</p>
— Shreya✨🇩🇪 (@pink_pistachioz) <a href="https://twitter.com/pink_pistachioz/status/1405525053001764869?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">As expected. Perfecto 👌</p>
— 🐾🦦🐕 (@seapish) <a href="https://twitter.com/seapish/status/1405525855963471873?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The last time when Bumrah-Ishant-Shami played together for India in a Test match - India lost by 10 wickets (v NZ, Wellington, 2020).</p>
— Umang Pabari (@UPStatsman) <a href="https://twitter.com/UPStatsman/status/1405527355091603464?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Siraj should have played instead of jadeja because of English conditions, everything else looks perfect 👍</p>
— 🏌️ (@Plant_Warrior) <a href="https://twitter.com/Plant_Warrior/status/1405523694504398849?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">No siraj seriously 🤦🏿‍♂️🙄</p>
— 🚜 Karan Gill ☬ (@JATTLANDPB11) <a href="https://twitter.com/JATTLANDPB11/status/1405525665454071811?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>


Team India has decided to go ahead with three pacers and two spinners as they take on New Zealand in the final showdown of the World Test Championship. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Thursday announced the Team India playing XI before the match that will commence from Friday at the Rose Bowl in Southampton.

Team India has decided to go ahead with three pacers and two spinners as they take on New Zealand in the final showdown of the World Test Championship. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Thursday announced the Team India playing XI before the match that will commence from Friday at the Rose Bowl in Southampton. ALSO READ: Cricket: Mohammed Siraj misses out as India announce playing XI for WTC Final The batting line-up picks itself with Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill entering the WTC Final as India’s designated openers. Cheteshwar Pujara, skipper Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane and Rishabh Pant complete the batting unit for India in the much-awaited final. Whereas, Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin will fill in for the spin position and also will provide a much-needed depth to the Men in Blue. Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, and Ishant Sharma will be the pacers for the match. 🚨 NEWS 🚨 Here's #TeamIndia's Playing XI for the #WTC21 Final 💪 👇 pic.twitter.com/DiOBAzf88h — BCCI (@BCCI) June 17, 2021 × Twitteratis could not keep calm after BCCI announced playing XI for the World Test Championship final. While most of them were happy with the announcement, there were few who were not pleased with Mohammed Siraj's exclusion. Let's take a look at some of the reaction. Best 11🥵, let's end Kiwis now — Shreya✨🇩🇪 (@pink_pistachioz) June 17, 2021 × As expected. Perfecto 👌 — 🐾🦦🐕 (@seapish) June 17, 2021 × The last time when Bumrah-Ishant-Shami played together for India in a Test match - India lost by 10 wickets (v NZ, Wellington, 2020). — Umang Pabari (@UPStatsman) June 17, 2021 × Siraj should have played instead of jadeja because of English conditions, everything else looks perfect 👍 — 🏌️ (@Plant_Warrior) June 17, 2021 × No siraj seriously 🤦🏿‍♂️🙄 — 🚜 Karan Gill ☬ (@JATTLANDPB11) June 17, 2021 ×

Cricket: Twitter erupts as Team India announce their playing XI for WTC final

<p>Former New Zealand bowler Shane Bond feels that Kane Williamson and co. will bundle out Team India cheaply if they win the toss and opt to field first in the upcoming World Test Championship finals that will be contested at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton.&nbsp;</p>

<p><b>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</b><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-steve-smith-dethrones-kane-williamson-to-become-no1-test-batsman-391869" hreflang="en">Cricket: Steve Smith dethrones Kane Williamson to become No.1 Test batsman</a></p>

<p>"...if New Zealand win the toss and bowl as well as they have. I think they'll bowl out India cheaply and that ain't a bad thing," Bond said in a virtual press conference arranged by Star Sports, the official broadcaster of the game.</p>

<p>However, Shane Bond feels that Kiwis might pay a huge price if they fail to dismiss Virat and Co. cheaply.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The risk is if they (NZ) don't bowl them out, India have got two world-class spinners and are right in the game.</p>

<p>"So, it's the toss that is going to be huge. And that first innings is going to be huge," he pointed out.</p>

<p>Weather at the Ageas Bowl will play a vital role in the match. According to the forecast, there is a good chance of rain on all five days in Southampton. But, ICC has decided to keep a reserved day to make up for the lost overs. Under the overcast conditions, the Dukes ball is likely to swing more. Trent Boult, Tim Southee and Kyle Jamieson will form a menacing trio for India's star-studded batting line-up.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Bond talked about Rohit Sharma and Trent Boult and said: "What I do know, even during the IPL, Boult was running in and hitting the pads of Rohit, telling him that this is what is going to happen in the WTC final. This was just brilliant, those two were aware that they are going to come up against each other. I just love Rohit Sharma, I see him playing a Matthew Hayden type of role."</p>

<p>"He goes out as he did against England earlier this year, he imposes himself, he is dynamic and he can score pretty quickly. He can take the game away in one hour, batting at the top of the order suits him, if he scores fast, it instantly puts pressure on the bowling attack. I cannot wait for the battle between Boult and Rohit. I am expecting to see few smiles between the guys as well," he added.</p>

<p>Former Kiwi also backed his team to win the World Test Championship finals and lift the mace.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I think New Zealand are going to win. Game practices going to have a massive impact. I think in India have got a balanced bowling attack. I think they'll play three seamers and two spinners," Bond said.</p>

<p>"I think New Zealand will play five seamers, and I think they'll win the toss and they'll bowl first," he added.&nbsp;</p>


Former New Zealand bowler Shane Bond feels that Kane Williamson and co. will bundle out Team India cheaply if they win the toss and opt to field first in the upcoming World Test Championship finals that will be contested at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton.

Former New Zealand bowler Shane Bond feels that Kane Williamson and co. will bundle out Team India cheaply if they win the toss and opt to field first in the upcoming World Test Championship finals that will be contested at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton. ALSO READ: Cricket: Steve Smith dethrones Kane Williamson to become No.1 Test batsman "...if New Zealand win the toss and bowl as well as they have. I think they'll bowl out India cheaply and that ain't a bad thing," Bond said in a virtual press conference arranged by Star Sports, the official broadcaster of the game. However, Shane Bond feels that Kiwis might pay a huge price if they fail to dismiss Virat and Co. cheaply. "The risk is if they (NZ) don't bowl them out, India have got two world-class spinners and are right in the game. "So, it's the toss that is going to be huge. And that first innings is going to be huge," he pointed out. Weather at the Ageas Bowl will play a vital role in the match. According to the forecast, there is a good chance of rain on all five days in Southampton. But, ICC has decided to keep a reserved day to make up for the lost overs. Under the overcast conditions, the Dukes ball is likely to swing more. Trent Boult, Tim Southee and Kyle Jamieson will form a menacing trio for India's star-studded batting line-up. Bond talked about Rohit Sharma and Trent Boult and said: "What I do know, even during the IPL, Boult was running in and hitting the pads of Rohit, telling him that this is what is going to happen in the WTC final. This was just brilliant, those two were aware that they are going to come up against each other. I just love Rohit Sharma, I see him playing a Matthew Hayden type of role." "He goes out as he did against England earlier this year, he imposes himself, he is dynamic and he can score pretty quickly. He can take the game away in one hour, batting at the top of the order suits him, if he scores fast, it instantly puts pressure on the bowling attack. I cannot wait for the battle between Boult and Rohit. I am expecting to see few smiles between the guys as well," he added. Former Kiwi also backed his team to win the World Test Championship finals and lift the mace. "I think New Zealand are going to win. Game practices going to have a massive impact. I think in India have got a balanced bowling attack. I think they'll play three seamers and two spinners," Bond said. "I think New Zealand will play five seamers, and I think they'll win the toss and they'll bowl first," he added.

WTC finals: 'Game practices going to have impact': Shane Bond predicts his winner

<p>Virat and Co. suffered a crushing defeat in the Test series at the hands of New Zealand that was played in 2020. New Zealand's pace attack proved to be too good for an Indian batsman in the series, therefore, the batting order will be very crucial for the Men in Blue in the juggernaut clash in Southampton.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-sanjay-manjrekar-picks-his-india-playing-xi-for-wtc-final-leaves-out-jadeja-ishant-391880" hreflang="en">Cricket: Sanjay Manjrekar picks his India playing XI for WTC Final, leaves out Jadeja, Ishant</a></p>

<p>However, Team India this time is going to face Kiwis with a much better batting lineup. Indian batting legend Sunil Gavaskar feels that Rohit Sharma will play a crucial role in India's tour to England.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In his case, it’s always the first two-three overs. Those are the overs where his front foot is not quite getting to the pitch of the ball. But a couple of overs down the road, once his front foot starts reaching the pitch of the ball, then he is very good," Gavaskar said on The Cricket Analyst podcast.</p>

<p>"Even in Australia, he didn’t score too many runs but the time he had to play their fast bowlers was amazing. These guys were bowling at 90 miles an hour but he actually made it look like 40 miles per hour. He had so much time to play."</p>

<p>"His thing is that all the time he is looking to attack. So sometimes, the shot selection is where he gets out. But if he gets that right, then he can get as many as three hundreds in this five-Test series," said Gavaskar.</p>

<p>The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Tuesday announced a 15-member squad for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final, set to be played from June 18 to 22 at the Rose Bowl in Southampton.</p>

<p>Virat Kohli will lead the Indian team for the WTC Final with Ajinkya Rahane being his deputy. The pace department have been completed by the likes of Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma, Mohammad Shami, Mohammed Siraj and Umesh Yadav while both Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin complete the spin duo.</p>

<p>The likes of Shardul Thakur and Washington Sundar miss out on a spot due to tight competition. The duo rose to the occasion when India missed their star players in the historic tour of Australia.&nbsp;</p>


Virat and Co. suffered a crushing defeat in the Test series at the hands of New Zealand that was played in 2020. New Zealand's pace attack proved to be too good for an Indian batsman in the series, therefore, the batting order will be very crucial for the Men in Blue in the juggernaut clash in Southampton.

Virat and Co. suffered a crushing defeat in the Test series at the hands of New Zealand that was played in 2020. New Zealand's pace attack proved to be too good for an Indian batsman in the series, therefore, the batting order will be very crucial for the Men in Blue in the juggernaut clash in Southampton. ALSO READ: Cricket: Sanjay Manjrekar picks his India playing XI for WTC Final, leaves out Jadeja, Ishant However, Team India this time is going to face Kiwis with a much better batting lineup. Indian batting legend Sunil Gavaskar feels that Rohit Sharma will play a crucial role in India's tour to England. "In his case, it’s always the first two-three overs. Those are the overs where his front foot is not quite getting to the pitch of the ball. But a couple of overs down the road, once his front foot starts reaching the pitch of the ball, then he is very good," Gavaskar said on The Cricket Analyst podcast. "Even in Australia, he didn’t score too many runs but the time he had to play their fast bowlers was amazing. These guys were bowling at 90 miles an hour but he actually made it look like 40 miles per hour. He had so much time to play." "His thing is that all the time he is looking to attack. So sometimes, the shot selection is where he gets out. But if he gets that right, then he can get as many as three hundreds in this five-Test series," said Gavaskar. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Tuesday announced a 15-member squad for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final, set to be played from June 18 to 22 at the Rose Bowl in Southampton. Virat Kohli will lead the Indian team for the WTC Final with Ajinkya Rahane being his deputy. The pace department have been completed by the likes of Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma, Mohammad Shami, Mohammed Siraj and Umesh Yadav while both Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin complete the spin duo. The likes of Shardul Thakur and Washington Sundar miss out on a spot due to tight competition. The duo rose to the occasion when India missed their star players in the historic tour of Australia.

Cricket- 'He is looking to attack': Sunil Gavaskar on Rohit Sharma ahead of WTC finals

<p>Indian captain Mithali Raj will lead her team in the one-off Test match against England at the County Ground in Bristol on Wednesday. The Women in Blue will play their first Test match after 2014. The last time they clashed with the English side in the red-ball cricket they ended up winning. Both sides have clashed 13 times in Test cricket with the Indian team having an upper hand after winning two of them, whereas, England have won just one, remaining 10 matches have been a draw.</p>

<h2><strong>When will the England women vs India women one-off Test match start?</strong></h2>

<p>The one-off Test match between England women and India women will start at 3.30 PM IST on Wednesday, June 16.</p>

<h2><strong>Where will the England women vs India women one-off Test match be played?</strong></h2>

<p>The England women vs India women match will take place at the County Ground, Bristol.</p>

<h2><strong>Which TV channels will broadcast the England women vs India women one-off Test match? &nbsp; &nbsp; </strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>The England women vs India women Test match will be broadcast on Sony Ten1 in India.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>How to watch the live streaming of the England women vs India women one-off Test match? &nbsp;</strong> &nbsp;</h2>

<p>Fans can catch the live streaming of the Test match on the Sony Liv app.</p>


Indian captain Mithali Raj will lead her team in the one-off Test match against England at the County Ground in Bristol on Wednesday. The Women in Blue will play their first Test match after 2014.

Indian captain Mithali Raj will lead her team in the one-off Test match against England at the County Ground in Bristol on Wednesday. The Women in Blue will play their first Test match after 2014. The last time they clashed with the English side in the red-ball cricket they ended up winning. Both sides have clashed 13 times in Test cricket with the Indian team having an upper hand after winning two of them, whereas, England have won just one, remaining 10 matches have been a draw. When will the England women vs India women one-off Test match start? The one-off Test match between England women and India women will start at 3.30 PM IST on Wednesday, June 16. Where will the England women vs India women one-off Test match be played? The England women vs India women match will take place at the County Ground, Bristol. Which TV channels will broadcast the England women vs India women one-off Test match? The England women vs India women Test match will be broadcast on Sony Ten1 in India. How to watch the live streaming of the England women vs India women one-off Test match? Fans can catch the live streaming of the Test match on the Sony Liv app.

INDW vs ENGW, one-off Test, Live Streaming: When and where to watch India vs England?

<p>Former Indian captain Rahul Dravid can be solely credited for Team India's bench strength, which is considered to be the best in cricket today. Rahul Dravid, who is currently the head of NCA, and has successfully coached India A and India Under-19 teams.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-finals-tim-southee-will-trouble-the-indians-the-most-says-monty-panesar-391054" hreflang="en">WTC Finals: 'Tim Southee will trouble the Indians the most', says Monty Panesar</a></p>

<p>India's bench strength was tested during the Australia series, earlier this year. With Virat Kohli's absence and several veteran stars getting injured, India's young guns had to step up. Young talents like Shubman Gill, Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Siraj, Washington Sundar, Rishabh Pant, and Navdeep Saini rose to the occasion and pulled off a historic win.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Now, Virat and Co. have set their eyes on the World Test Championship finals as they take on New Zealand. Australian batsman David Warner was all praise when he talked about India's bench strength and felt that they will be a force to reckoned with in future.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Aussie also credited former India skipper Rahul Dravid for the 'fantastic job' he did grooming the young talents.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"When you take the captain (Kohli) away, who is a world-class player and has a lot of runs on the board, and you've got this youth coming with energy and performing against us the way they did, I think they are going to be a force to be reckoned with," Warner said on Sports Today.</p>

<p>"The IPL has been a great platform and you have to give credit to Rahul Dravid. It seems like he is doing a fantastic job through the pathway system to get these players ready for international cricket.</p>

<p>"It showed when they came to play us here. In future India is going to be a very formidable side in Test cricket as they are now," Warner signed off. &nbsp;</p>


Former Indian captain Rahul Dravid can be solely credited for Team India's bench strength, which is considered to be the best in cricket today. Rahul Dravid, who is currently the head of NCA, and has successfully coached India A and India Under-19 teams.

Former Indian captain Rahul Dravid can be solely credited for Team India's bench strength, which is considered to be the best in cricket today. Rahul Dravid, who is currently the head of NCA, and has successfully coached India A and India Under-19 teams. ALSO READ: WTC Finals: 'Tim Southee will trouble the Indians the most', says Monty Panesar India's bench strength was tested during the Australia series, earlier this year. With Virat Kohli's absence and several veteran stars getting injured, India's young guns had to step up. Young talents like Shubman Gill, Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Siraj, Washington Sundar, Rishabh Pant, and Navdeep Saini rose to the occasion and pulled off a historic win. Now, Virat and Co. have set their eyes on the World Test Championship finals as they take on New Zealand. Australian batsman David Warner was all praise when he talked about India's bench strength and felt that they will be a force to reckoned with in future. The Aussie also credited former India skipper Rahul Dravid for the 'fantastic job' he did grooming the young talents. "When you take the captain (Kohli) away, who is a world-class player and has a lot of runs on the board, and you've got this youth coming with energy and performing against us the way they did, I think they are going to be a force to be reckoned with," Warner said on Sports Today. "The IPL has been a great platform and you have to give credit to Rahul Dravid. It seems like he is doing a fantastic job through the pathway system to get these players ready for international cricket. "It showed when they came to play us here. In future India is going to be a very formidable side in Test cricket as they are now," Warner signed off.

Cricket: 'You have to give credit to Rahul Dravid': David Warner on India's bench strength

<p>The India-Pakistan rivalry was fierce from the 90s and late 2000s. Inzamam-Ul-Haq, who was one of the top batsmen during that era, feels that the matches between the two have become more of India's way as the country has focused on different levels of cricket.&nbsp;</p>

<p><b>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</b><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-shubman-gill-shares-stories-about-his-on-field-visits-with-rohit-sharma-and-mayank-agarwal-391165" hreflang="en">Cricket: Shubman Gill shares stories about his on-field visits with Rohit Sharma and Mayank Agarwal</a></strong></p>

<p>"Until 2010, there was intense competition among these three teams. But over the last 10-12 years, India has improved its game immensely and has certainly gone ahead of Pakistan and Sri Lanka. The credit goes to the IPL for sure, but I must admit that India has focused a lot on its first-class cricket structure and that has played a huge role in its development," Inzamam told Sportstar.</p>

<p>"The associations have got money and the players have got world-class facilities - in terms of training. India is reaping benefits of its robust domestic structure, whereas Pakistan and Sri Lanka have not been able to develop their first-class cricket that much."</p>

<p>Former Pak skipper cited the example of India's historic tour to Australia, earlier this year. With Virat Kohli's absence and several veteran stars getting injured, India's young guns had to step up. Young talents like Shubman Gill, Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Siraj, Washington Sundar, Rishabh Pant, and Navdeep Saini rose to the occasion and pulled off a historic win.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Some 15 years ago, when a youngster came into the scene, he would get a few years' time to settle down, but now, there is no breathing space. The moment one enters the scene, we expect performances from him," Inzamam added.</p>

<p>"Earlier, touring sides struggled against the Australian team despite having top cricketers in their ranks. It was nearly impossible to beat Australia at home, but a bunch of youngsters from India actually did an incredible job by defeating the Aussies in their backyard. And that’s why, your first-class structure needs to be top notch - because it prepares you well. That is one area where Sri Lanka and Pakistan are slightly lagging behind."</p>


The India-Pakistan rivalry was fierce from the 90s and late 2000s. Inzamam-Ul-Haq, who was one of the top batsmen during that era, feels that the matches between the two have become more of India's way as the country has focused on different levels of cricket.

The India-Pakistan rivalry was fierce from the 90s and late 2000s. Inzamam-Ul-Haq, who was one of the top batsmen during that era, feels that the matches between the two have become more of India's way as the country has focused on different levels of cricket. ALSO READ: Cricket: Shubman Gill shares stories about his on-field visits with Rohit Sharma and Mayank Agarwal "Until 2010, there was intense competition among these three teams. But over the last 10-12 years, India has improved its game immensely and has certainly gone ahead of Pakistan and Sri Lanka. The credit goes to the IPL for sure, but I must admit that India has focused a lot on its first-class cricket structure and that has played a huge role in its development," Inzamam told Sportstar. "The associations have got money and the players have got world-class facilities - in terms of training. India is reaping benefits of its robust domestic structure, whereas Pakistan and Sri Lanka have not been able to develop their first-class cricket that much." Former Pak skipper cited the example of India's historic tour to Australia, earlier this year. With Virat Kohli's absence and several veteran stars getting injured, India's young guns had to step up. Young talents like Shubman Gill, Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Siraj, Washington Sundar, Rishabh Pant, and Navdeep Saini rose to the occasion and pulled off a historic win. "Some 15 years ago, when a youngster came into the scene, he would get a few years' time to settle down, but now, there is no breathing space. The moment one enters the scene, we expect performances from him," Inzamam added. "Earlier, touring sides struggled against the Australian team despite having top cricketers in their ranks. It was nearly impossible to beat Australia at home, but a bunch of youngsters from India actually did an incredible job by defeating the Aussies in their backyard. And that’s why, your first-class structure needs to be top notch - because it prepares you well. That is one area where Sri Lanka and Pakistan are slightly lagging behind."

'In 10-12 years, India has improved its cricket and has gone ahead of Pakistan': Inzamam-Ul-Haq

<p>Former England captain Michael Vaughan was bitterly disappointed with Root and Co.'s batting display against New Zealand in the second Test.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-shubman-gill-shares-stories-about-his-on-field-visits-with-rohit-sharma-and-mayank-agarwal-391165" hreflang="en">Cricket: Shubman Gill shares stories about his on-field visits with Rohit Sharma and Mayank Agarwal</a></strong></p>

<p>New Zealand on Sunday hammered England by eight wickets in the second Test to seal the two-match series 1-0 at the Edgbaston. Taking the field with a target of 38 to win, New Zealand batsmen finished the job quickly to register the memorable win on English soil.</p>

<p>England were down to 122 for 9 at the end of Day 3 and took a lead of just 37 runs and set a very low target for the BlackCaps.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Michael Vaughan lashed out at England's batting performance and felt that their chances of winning Ashes will be none if they continue such form.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“They now have just five chances to sort the batting out before the Ashes. They can't arrive in Australia with a batting line-up this fragile. They’d have no chance. This batting line-up is fragile and we have to now start looking at players and wondering if they are good enough because they keep getting out cheaply,” said Vaughan on the BBC Test Match Special.</p>

<p>“England have tinkered too much. Everything has gone downhill for England since they went up 1-0 in India. Don't muck about with Test cricket. England aren't a good enough team to muck about,” he added.</p>

<p>This is New Zealand’s third win in 18 Test series in England and first after their historic wins in 1986 and 1999. Whereas, this was England’s first home series defeat since 2014, wherein they lost against Sri Lanka.</p>

<p>New Zealand will gain plenty of confidence heading into the World Test Championship final against India, scheduled to start from June 18 in Southampton.</p>


Former England captain Michael Vaughan was bitterly disappointed with Root and Co.'s batting display against New Zealand in the second Test. ALSO READ: Cricket: Shubman Gill shares stories about his on-field visits with Rohit Sharma and Mayank Agarwal New Zealand on Sunday hammered England by eight wickets in the second Test to seal the two-match series 1-0 at the Edgbaston.

Former England captain Michael Vaughan was bitterly disappointed with Root and Co.'s batting display against New Zealand in the second Test. ALSO READ: Cricket: Shubman Gill shares stories about his on-field visits with Rohit Sharma and Mayank Agarwal New Zealand on Sunday hammered England by eight wickets in the second Test to seal the two-match series 1-0 at the Edgbaston. Taking the field with a target of 38 to win, New Zealand batsmen finished the job quickly to register the memorable win on English soil. England were down to 122 for 9 at the end of Day 3 and took a lead of just 37 runs and set a very low target for the BlackCaps. Michael Vaughan lashed out at England's batting performance and felt that their chances of winning Ashes will be none if they continue such form. “They now have just five chances to sort the batting out before the Ashes. They can't arrive in Australia with a batting line-up this fragile. They’d have no chance. This batting line-up is fragile and we have to now start looking at players and wondering if they are good enough because they keep getting out cheaply,” said Vaughan on the BBC Test Match Special. “England have tinkered too much. Everything has gone downhill for England since they went up 1-0 in India. Don't muck about with Test cricket. England aren't a good enough team to muck about,” he added. This is New Zealand’s third win in 18 Test series in England and first after their historic wins in 1986 and 1999. Whereas, this was England’s first home series defeat since 2014, wherein they lost against Sri Lanka. New Zealand will gain plenty of confidence heading into the World Test Championship final against India, scheduled to start from June 18 in Southampton.

'Gone downhill since they went up 1-0 in India': Michael Vaughan lashes out at Root and Co.

<p>Former Indian wicketkeeper Deep Dasgupta feels that fast pacer Jaydev Unadkat and all-rounder Rahul Tewatia could have been in the squad that will tour Sri Lanka for a limited-over series.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-im-preparing-to-play-and-perform-at-my-best-wes-agar-gears-up-for-his-debut-391002" hreflang="en">Cricket: I'm preparing to play and perform at my best: Wes Agar gears up for his debut</a></p>

<p>"I feel selection has become so easy during these pandemic times. There are six matches – three T20Is and three ODIs. You have picked a squad of 25-20 players and five net bowlers. You could have included a couple of other players too, what did they do wrong? Players like Jaydev Unadkat and even Rahul Tewatia, who was part of the squad during the last series, could have been included. Wouldn’t have made any difference to take 27 instead of 25" Dasgupta said on his YouTube channel.</p>

<p>Dasgupta revealed that he was surprised with Jaydev Unadkat's exclusion as the pacer had prolific stats in the 2019-20 Ranji Trophy. The last time Unadkat donned the blue jersey in March 2018 during the final of the Nidahas Trophy against Bangladesh.</p>

<p>"I don’t have much to say about the team selection. There are 20 players, so whoever was in contention has made it. There can’t be any surprises. I really like Jaydev Unadkat because he is so hardworking and passionate. Not just in the IPL, he bowls 20-25 overs in the Ranji Trophy, works hard and is absolutely brilliant. Like I said before, if you are taking 25, could have taken 26 as well it would have made no difference," wondered the former India keeper.</p>

<p>All-India Senior Selection Committee selected the Indian squad for the three-match ODI series and the three-match T20I series against Sri Lanka scheduled in July. All matches will be played at the R Premadasa International Cricket Stadium, Colombo.</p>

<p>Veteran left-handed batsman Shikhar Dhawan will lead the Indian side with Bhuvneshwar Kumar as his deputy.</p>

<p>In what will be an audition for some in the build-up to the upcoming T20 World Cup, the likes of Kuldeep Yadav, Prithvi Shaw, Manish Pandey among others would look to impress the selectors and the members, management of the senior team, who are in England for the World Test Championship final and five-Test series against England.</p>

<p>The call-up becomes special for Devdutt Padikkar, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Nitish Rana, Varun Chakravarthy and Chetan Sakariya – who earn their maiden call-up to the Indian team. Additionally, the squad will be assisted by five net bowlers.</p>


Former Indian wicketkeeper Deep Dasgupta feels that fast pacer Jaydev Unadkat and all-rounder Rahul Tewatia could have been in the squad that will tour Sri Lanka for a limited-over series.

Former Indian wicketkeeper Deep Dasgupta feels that fast pacer Jaydev Unadkat and all-rounder Rahul Tewatia could have been in the squad that will tour Sri Lanka for a limited-over series. ALSO READ: Cricket: I'm preparing to play and perform at my best: Wes Agar gears up for his debut "I feel selection has become so easy during these pandemic times. There are six matches – three T20Is and three ODIs. You have picked a squad of 25-20 players and five net bowlers. You could have included a couple of other players too, what did they do wrong? Players like Jaydev Unadkat and even Rahul Tewatia, who was part of the squad during the last series, could have been included. Wouldn’t have made any difference to take 27 instead of 25" Dasgupta said on his YouTube channel. Dasgupta revealed that he was surprised with Jaydev Unadkat's exclusion as the pacer had prolific stats in the 2019-20 Ranji Trophy. The last time Unadkat donned the blue jersey in March 2018 during the final of the Nidahas Trophy against Bangladesh. "I don’t have much to say about the team selection. There are 20 players, so whoever was in contention has made it. There can’t be any surprises. I really like Jaydev Unadkat because he is so hardworking and passionate. Not just in the IPL, he bowls 20-25 overs in the Ranji Trophy, works hard and is absolutely brilliant. Like I said before, if you are taking 25, could have taken 26 as well it would have made no difference," wondered the former India keeper. All-India Senior Selection Committee selected the Indian squad for the three-match ODI series and the three-match T20I series against Sri Lanka scheduled in July. All matches will be played at the R Premadasa International Cricket Stadium, Colombo. Veteran left-handed batsman Shikhar Dhawan will lead the Indian side with Bhuvneshwar Kumar as his deputy. In what will be an audition for some in the build-up to the upcoming T20 World Cup, the likes of Kuldeep Yadav, Prithvi Shaw, Manish Pandey among others would look to impress the selectors and the members, management of the senior team, who are in England for the World Test Championship final and five-Test series against England. The call-up becomes special for Devdutt Padikkar, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Nitish Rana, Varun Chakravarthy and Chetan Sakariya – who earn their maiden call-up to the Indian team. Additionally, the squad will be assisted by five net bowlers.

'There can’t be any surprises': Deep Dasgupta on Unadkat being snubbed for SL tour

<p>Former Indian captain Rahul Dravid can be solely credited for Team India's bench strength, which is considered to be the best in cricket today. Rahul Dravid, who is currently the head of NCA, and has successfully coached India A and India Under-19 teams.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-we-all-have-our-different-opinions-curtly-ambrose-reacts-to-manjrekars-comments-on-ashwin-390770" hreflang="en">Cricket- 'We all have our different opinions': Curtly Ambrose reacts to Manjrekar's comments on Ashwin</a></p>

<p>The batting legend will now manage Team India that will tour Sri Lanka. Dravid explained that young players involved with him at India A and Under-19 became immense talent due to the number of opportunities he provides.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I tell them upfront, if you come on an A tour with me, you will not leave here without playing a game. I've had that personal experience myself as a kid: going on an A tour and not getting an opportunity to play is terrible. You've done well, you scored 700-800 runs, you go, and you don't get a chance to show what you're good at," Dravid was quoted as saying by ESPNCricinfo on The Cricket Monthly.</p>

<p>"Then you're back to square one from the selectors' point of view, because the next season you have to score those 800 runs again. It is not easy to do that, so there is no guarantee you'll get a chance again. So. you tell people upfront: this is the best 15 and we are playing them. This is not about the supposed best XI. At U-19, we make five-six changes between games if we can."</p>

<p>Dravid went on to point out the difference between today's scenarios and the days when he used to play cricket.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Playing on the beach and playing on the road doesn't make you a cricketer. It makes you someone who loves the game. That's what we had. We had a lot of people who loved the game. Unless you give that guy a proper matting wicket or a turf wicket, unless you give him some half-decent coaching, some half-decent fitness assistance... where was all this in the 1990s and the 2000s?" Dravid pointed out.</p>

<p>"There was no access to it. We were starved of knowledge. Even in terms of fitness, we used to look at the Australians and South Africans and we used to look at their fitness trainers, and what did we get? 'Don't do too much gym, your body will become stiff. Bowl, bowl and bowl. Run rounds and laps.'"</p>

<p>Shikhar Dhawan, under head coach Rahul Dravid, will lead India in the white-ball tour in Sri Lanka. The call-up becomes special for Devdutt Padikkar, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Nitish Rana, Varun Chakravarthy and Chetan Sakariya – who earn their maiden call-up to the Indian team. Additionally, the squad will be assisted by five net bowlers.</p>


Former Indian captain Rahul Dravid can be solely credited for Team India's bench strength, which is considered to be the best in cricket today. Rahul Dravid, who is currently the head of NCA, and has successfully coached India A and India Under-19 teams. ALSO READ: Cricket- 'We all have our different opinions': Curtly Ambrose reacts to Manjrekar's comments on Ashwin The batting legend will now manage Team India that will tour Sri Lanka. Dravid explained that young players involved with him at India A and Under-19 became immense talent due to the number of opportunities he provides. "I tell them upfront, if you come on an A tour with me, you will not leave here without playing a game. I've had that personal experience myself as a kid: going on an A tour and not getting an opportunity to play is terrible. You've done well, you scored 700-800 runs, you go, and you don't get a chance to show what you're good at," Dravid was quoted as saying by ESPNCricinfo on The Cricket Monthly. "Then you're back to square one from the selectors' point of view, because the next season you have to score those 800 runs again. It is not easy to do that, so there is no guarantee you'll get a chance again. So. you tell people upfront: this is the best 15 and we are playing them. This is not about the supposed best XI. At U-19, we make five-six changes between games if we can." Dravid went on to point out the difference between today's scenarios and the days when he used to play cricket. "Playing on the beach and playing on the road doesn't make you a cricketer. It makes you someone who loves the game. That's what we had. We had a lot of people who loved the game. Unless you give that guy a proper matting wicket or a turf wicket, unless you give him some half-decent coaching, some half-decent fitness assistance... where was all this in the 1990s and the 2000s?" Dravid pointed out. "There was no access to it. We were starved of knowledge. Even in terms of fitness, we used to look at the Australians and South Africans and we used to look at their fitness trainers, and what did we get? 'Don't do too much gym, your body will become stiff. Bowl, bowl and bowl. Run rounds and laps.'" Shikhar Dhawan, under head coach Rahul Dravid, will lead India in the white-ball tour in Sri Lanka. The call-up becomes special for Devdutt Padikkar, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Nitish Rana, Varun Chakravarthy and Chetan Sakariya – who earn their maiden call-up to the Indian team. Additionally, the squad will be assisted by five net bowlers.

'On A tour with me, you will not leave here without playing game': Rahul Dravid

<p>Shikhar Dhawan will lead Team India for a limited-over series against Sri Lanka. The Indian opener took to social media to express his gratitude to BCCI for the honour of leading the Men in Blue.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-lockdown-helped-us-improve-as-overall-individuals-hardik-pandya-390819" hreflang="en">Cricket: Lockdown&nbsp;helped us improve as overall individuals: Hardik Pandya</a></p>

<p>He took to Instagram and wrote: "Humbled by the opportunity to lead my country. Thank you for all your wishes"</p>

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<p>All-India Senior Selection Committee selected the Indian squad for the three-match ODI series and the three-match T20I series against Sri Lanka scheduled in July. All matches will be played at the R Premadasa International Cricket Stadium, Colombo.</p>

<p>Veteran left-handed batsman Shikhar Dhawan will lead the Indian side with Bhuvneshwar Kumar as his deputy.</p>

<p>In what will be an audition for some in the build-up to the upcoming T20 World Cup, the likes of Kuldeep Yadav, Prithvi Shaw, Manish Pandey among others would look to impress the selectors and the members, management of the senior team, who are in England for the World Test Championship final and five-Test series against England.</p>

<p>The call-up becomes special for Devdutt Padikkar, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Nitish Rana, Varun Chakravarthy and Chetan Sakariya – who earn their maiden call-up to the Indian team. Additionally, the squad will be assisted by five net bowlers.</p>

<p>ALSO READ: Cricket: From Smriti Mandhana to Shafali Verma - The Hundred confirms signings of Indian superstars</p>

<p><br />
India’s squad: Shikhar Dhawan (Captain), Prithvi Shaw, Devdutt Padikkal, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Suryakumar Yadav, Manish Pandey, Hardik Pandya, Nitish Rana, Ishan Kishan (Wicket-keeper), Sanju Samson (Wicket-keeper), Yuzvendra Chahal, Rahul Chahar, K Gowtham, Krunal Pandya, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakravarthy, Bhuvneshwar Kumar (Vice-captain), Deepak Chahar, Navdeep Saini, Chetan Sakariya</p>

<p>Net Bowlers: Ishan Porel, Sandeep Warrier, Arshdeep Singh, Sai Kishore, Simarjeet Singh</p>


Shikhar Dhawan will lead Team India for a limited-over series against Sri Lanka. The Indian opener took to social media to express his gratitude to BCCI for the honour of leading the Men in Blue.

Shikhar Dhawan will lead Team India for a limited-over series against Sri Lanka. The Indian opener took to social media to express his gratitude to BCCI for the honour of leading the Men in Blue. ALSO READ: Cricket: Lockdown helped us improve as overall individuals: Hardik Pandya He took to Instagram and wrote: "Humbled by the opportunity to lead my country. Thank you for all your wishes" View this post on Instagram A post shared by Shikhar Dhawan (@shikhardofficial) × All-India Senior Selection Committee selected the Indian squad for the three-match ODI series and the three-match T20I series against Sri Lanka scheduled in July. All matches will be played at the R Premadasa International Cricket Stadium, Colombo. Veteran left-handed batsman Shikhar Dhawan will lead the Indian side with Bhuvneshwar Kumar as his deputy. In what will be an audition for some in the build-up to the upcoming T20 World Cup, the likes of Kuldeep Yadav, Prithvi Shaw, Manish Pandey among others would look to impress the selectors and the members, management of the senior team, who are in England for the World Test Championship final and five-Test series against England. The call-up becomes special for Devdutt Padikkar, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Nitish Rana, Varun Chakravarthy and Chetan Sakariya – who earn their maiden call-up to the Indian team. Additionally, the squad will be assisted by five net bowlers. ALSO READ: Cricket: From Smriti Mandhana to Shafali Verma - The Hundred confirms signings of Indian superstars India’s squad: Shikhar Dhawan (Captain), Prithvi Shaw, Devdutt Padikkal, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Suryakumar Yadav, Manish Pandey, Hardik Pandya, Nitish Rana, Ishan Kishan (Wicket-keeper), Sanju Samson (Wicket-keeper), Yuzvendra Chahal, Rahul Chahar, K Gowtham, Krunal Pandya, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakravarthy, Bhuvneshwar Kumar (Vice-captain), Deepak Chahar, Navdeep Saini, Chetan Sakariya Net Bowlers: Ishan Porel, Sandeep Warrier, Arshdeep Singh, Sai Kishore, Simarjeet Singh

'Humbled': Shikhar Dhawan reacts after being named India captain for Sri Lanka tour

<p>One of the prompt effects of the lockdown last year was that families fraternized in their homes. Across India, families unexpectedly had a great deal of time together. For the individuals who ordinarily don't will invest an excess of time with their families, this was a chance to compensate for the loss.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Like most Indians, cricketers Krunal and Hardik Pandya additionally spent a lot of time with family during the&nbsp;lockdown time frame.</p>

<p>Hardik Pandya and Krunal Pandya have both developed as cricketers and people in the course of the last year after the COVID-19 pandemic struck.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The lower back injury that followed the scene prompted probably the absolute bottom of Hardik Pandya's vocation. When he recuperated and got back to the field, the whole world had gone inside their homes because of COVID-19.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The all-rounder from Baroda underscored how he and Krunal utilized the lockdown to develop themselves as individuals. Talking on the new Times of India webcast - Sportscast, Pandya said:&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Last year, the lockdown&nbsp;helped us improve as overall individuals. For us, it was more important because we could spend time on our skills. We were able to improve our fitness because we had time and, by God's grace, we have a gym where we can work out as well. And we got to spend time with each other."</p>

<p>"As individuals, we are very honest with each other. So if something was wrong with Krunal, I told him. If something was wrong with me, he told me. For us, it was an improvement phase and our goals changed in life. We got so much time that we spoke about everything, from our cricket to our lives... We improved as humans as well" - he added. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Krunal Pandya has expressed in the past that it was their dad's persistent effort and backing that molded the pair into Indian cricketers. Hardik Pandya, Krunal's dad, left his business to move to Surat at an early age to furnish his children with great preparation in the game.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We have always said that whatever we are and wherever we are, it's because of our father's struggle and vision. When I was six and Hardik was three, we never imagined playing for India or what we want to do in life. It was his vision. He saw me and said - 'My kids will play for&nbsp;India" - said Krunal Pandya.</p>


One of the prompt effects of the lockdown last year was that families fraternized in their homes. Across India, families unexpectedly had a great deal of time together.

One of the prompt effects of the lockdown last year was that families fraternized in their homes. Across India, families unexpectedly had a great deal of time together. For the individuals who ordinarily don't will invest an excess of time with their families, this was a chance to compensate for the loss. Like most Indians, cricketers Krunal and Hardik Pandya additionally spent a lot of time with family during the lockdown time frame. Hardik Pandya and Krunal Pandya have both developed as cricketers and people in the course of the last year after the COVID-19 pandemic struck. The lower back injury that followed the scene prompted probably the absolute bottom of Hardik Pandya's vocation. When he recuperated and got back to the field, the whole world had gone inside their homes because of COVID-19. The all-rounder from Baroda underscored how he and Krunal utilized the lockdown to develop themselves as individuals. Talking on the new Times of India webcast - Sportscast, Pandya said: "Last year, the lockdown helped us improve as overall individuals. For us, it was more important because we could spend time on our skills. We were able to improve our fitness because we had time and, by God's grace, we have a gym where we can work out as well. And we got to spend time with each other." "As individuals, we are very honest with each other. So if something was wrong with Krunal, I told him. If something was wrong with me, he told me. For us, it was an improvement phase and our goals changed in life. We got so much time that we spoke about everything, from our cricket to our lives... We improved as humans as well" - he added. Krunal Pandya has expressed in the past that it was their dad's persistent effort and backing that molded the pair into Indian cricketers. Hardik Pandya, Krunal's dad, left his business to move to Surat at an early age to furnish his children with great preparation in the game. "We have always said that whatever we are and wherever we are, it's because of our father's struggle and vision. When I was six and Hardik was three, we never imagined playing for India or what we want to do in life. It was his vision. He saw me and said - 'My kids will play for India" - said Krunal Pandya.

Cricket: Lockdown helped us improve as overall individuals: Hardik Pandya

<p>The Board of Control for Cricket in India treasurer Arun Singh Dhumal has said that playing the Hundred in England this year will help the Indian women cricketers acquire incredible experience for what's to come.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He says, playing in England will prove to be useful in front of the 50-over World Cup in New Zealand one year from now. This is on the grounds that the conditions in the United Kingdom are really like New Zealand.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The BCCI has conceded consent to five ladies cricketers, Harmanpreet Kaur, Smriti Mandhana, Jemimah Rodrigues, Shafali Verma, and Deepti Sharma to participate in the Hundred.</p>

<p>The Board of Control for&nbsp;Cricket&nbsp;in India&nbsp;does not permit its male players to take part in overseas franchises-based classes, however, the test experts have played county&nbsp;cricket&nbsp;in England.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The debut version of the 100-ball contest, which highlights eight franchises with independent men's and women's groups, starts at The Oval on July 21.</p>

<p>Harmanpreet Kaur and Smriti Mandhana have also previously played in Australia's Big Bash League Twenty20 competition.</p>

<p>"The idea is for them to get exposure in England," BCCI treasurer Arun Singh Dhumal told Reuters.</p>

<p>"Some of our boys have played county&nbsp;cricket, and that has given them a great opportunity and exposure. We want to take women's&nbsp;cricket&nbsp;forward similarly.</p>

<p>"These experiences will definitely come in handy in the World Cup next year."</p>

<p>Following a year without international&nbsp;cricket&nbsp;due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Indian women's team played a series with South Africa for a limited-overs format in March and the timetable out of the blue looks considerably more involved.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Mithali Raj will play their first test in a long time when they face England in Bristol, with the visit in a like manner including three one-dayers and three T20 matches.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India will play their woman pink-ball test in Australia not long from now and there could be more unique in September-October if the BCCI can arrange the Women's T20 Challenge in the United Arab Emirates.</p>

<p>The BCCI treasurer officer likewise spoke about the plans for facilitating the current year's version of the Women's T20 Challenge. After an effective spat the most recent three years, the COVID-19 pandemic has projected vulnerability about the competition being arranged.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Arun Dhumal said that the BCCI is thinking about facilitating the ladies' T20 competition alongside the forthcoming leg of IPL in the UAE.</p>

<p>"We're trying to figure out if that can be played with the UAE leg of the IPL," Dhumal said.</p>

<p>"Hopefully we'll get a window. We'll have to see venue availability as well."</p>


The Board of Control for Cricket in India treasurer Arun Singh Dhumal has said that playing the Hundred in England this year will help the Indian women cricketers acquire incredible experience for what's to come.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India treasurer Arun Singh Dhumal has said that playing the Hundred in England this year will help the Indian women cricketers acquire incredible experience for what's to come. He says, playing in England will prove to be useful in front of the 50-over World Cup in New Zealand one year from now. This is on the grounds that the conditions in the United Kingdom are really like New Zealand. The BCCI has conceded consent to five ladies cricketers, Harmanpreet Kaur, Smriti Mandhana, Jemimah Rodrigues, Shafali Verma, and Deepti Sharma to participate in the Hundred. The Board of Control for Cricket in India does not permit its male players to take part in overseas franchises-based classes, however, the test experts have played county cricket in England. The debut version of the 100-ball contest, which highlights eight franchises with independent men's and women's groups, starts at The Oval on July 21. Harmanpreet Kaur and Smriti Mandhana have also previously played in Australia's Big Bash League Twenty20 competition. "The idea is for them to get exposure in England," BCCI treasurer Arun Singh Dhumal told Reuters. "Some of our boys have played county cricket, and that has given them a great opportunity and exposure. We want to take women's cricket forward similarly. "These experiences will definitely come in handy in the World Cup next year." Following a year without international cricket due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Indian women's team played a series with South Africa for a limited-overs format in March and the timetable out of the blue looks considerably more involved. Mithali Raj will play their first test in a long time when they face England in Bristol, with the visit in a like manner including three one-dayers and three T20 matches. India will play their woman pink-ball test in Australia not long from now and there could be more unique in September-October if the BCCI can arrange the Women's T20 Challenge in the United Arab Emirates. The BCCI treasurer officer likewise spoke about the plans for facilitating the current year's version of the Women's T20 Challenge. After an effective spat the most recent three years, the COVID-19 pandemic has projected vulnerability about the competition being arranged. Arun Dhumal said that the BCCI is thinking about facilitating the ladies' T20 competition alongside the forthcoming leg of IPL in the UAE. "We're trying to figure out if that can be played with the UAE leg of the IPL," Dhumal said. "Hopefully we'll get a window. We'll have to see venue availability as well."

Cricket: Hundred experience will boost India women's World Cup hopes: BCCI official

<p>Team India kicked off their practice session at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton to prepare for the highly-anticipated World Test Championship final clash against New Zealand.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-yuvraj-singh-predicts-opening-duo-of-team-india-for-wtc-finals-390411" hreflang="en">Cricket: Yuvraj Singh predicts opening duo of Team India for WTC Finals</a></p>

<p>The Kiwis are currently involved in a two-match Test series against England, however, they may have some advantage as they already have enough match practice to adapt to the English conditions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The BCCI took to Twitter on Thursday to share the clip of the intense practice session that Virat and Co. underwent.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">We have had our first group training session and the intensity was high 🔥<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a>'s 🇮🇳 preparations are on in full swing for the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WTC21?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WTC21</a> Final 🙌 <a href="https://t.co/MkHwh5wAYp">pic.twitter.com/MkHwh5wAYp</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1402847348250669060?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 10, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>The video featured skipper Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, Cheteshwar Pujara, R Ashwin, Rishabh Pant and more breaking the sweat for the juggernaut clash which is just over a week to go.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier, former Indian cricketer Dilip Vengsarkar reckoned that the lack of preparation heading into the ICC World Test Championship final "may hurt" the Indian cricket team. His comments came after Kohli, in the pre-departure press conference, said that lack of practice is not a big worry for the team.</p>

<p>"Well he (Kohli) has been around for a long time. He (Kohli) is one of the best batsmen in world cricket at the moment. Players like Virat or Rohit Sharma, they are world-class players, they take a lot of pride in their performance and pride in winning matches for India," Vengsarkar, the former chairman of selectors, told PTI on Sunday.</p>

<p>"It is a good thing and both are in very good form. But having said that, I think lack of match practice may hurt them in the first Test match that is what I feel," Vengsarkar said.</p>


Team India kicked off their practice session at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton to prepare for the highly-anticipated World Test Championship final clash against New Zealand.

Team India kicked off their practice session at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton to prepare for the highly-anticipated World Test Championship final clash against New Zealand. ALSO READ: Cricket: Yuvraj Singh predicts opening duo of Team India for WTC Finals The Kiwis are currently involved in a two-match Test series against England, however, they may have some advantage as they already have enough match practice to adapt to the English conditions. The BCCI took to Twitter on Thursday to share the clip of the intense practice session that Virat and Co. underwent. WATCH: We have had our first group training session and the intensity was high 🔥#TeamIndia's 🇮🇳 preparations are on in full swing for the #WTC21 Final 🙌 pic.twitter.com/MkHwh5wAYp — BCCI (@BCCI) June 10, 2021 × The video featured skipper Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, Cheteshwar Pujara, R Ashwin, Rishabh Pant and more breaking the sweat for the juggernaut clash which is just over a week to go. Earlier, former Indian cricketer Dilip Vengsarkar reckoned that the lack of preparation heading into the ICC World Test Championship final "may hurt" the Indian cricket team. His comments came after Kohli, in the pre-departure press conference, said that lack of practice is not a big worry for the team. "Well he (Kohli) has been around for a long time. He (Kohli) is one of the best batsmen in world cricket at the moment. Players like Virat or Rohit Sharma, they are world-class players, they take a lot of pride in their performance and pride in winning matches for India," Vengsarkar, the former chairman of selectors, told PTI on Sunday. "It is a good thing and both are in very good form. But having said that, I think lack of match practice may hurt them in the first Test match that is what I feel," Vengsarkar said.

Cricket: Virat and Co. break sweat at the Ageas Bowl after ending quarantine - WATCH

<p>Nick Hockley, the newly appointed CEO of Cricket Australia, heaped praises on BCCI president Sourav Ganguly and called the former Indian skipper a fantastic character.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-yuvraj-singh-predicts-opening-duo-of-team-india-for-wtc-finals-390411" hreflang="en">Cricket: Yuvraj Singh predicts opening duo of Team India for WTC Finals</a></p>

<p>"He's just really great. He's a good, down-to-earth guy. I'll tell you what, there's no one that's more passionate about the game. And he's just been an absolute pleasure to deal with. We have been dealing with him recently because we have the Indian women's team coming out here for a Test match," Hockey said on The Grade Cricketer Podcast.</p>

<p>On May 31, Hockley was appointed as Australian cricket board's CEO, whereas, Sourav Ganguly kicked off his innings as the BCCI president on October 23, 2019.</p>

<p><b>IN PICS|&nbsp;</b><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/virat-kohli-isnt-the-highest-paid-captain-in-international-cricket-check-full-list-of-skippers-and-salaries-in-2021-386865">Virat Kohli isn't the highest-paid captain in international cricket! - Check full list of skippers and salaries in 2021</a></p>

<p>Under Ganguly, Team India played their first-ever Day/Night Test at the Eden Gardens in 2019. He saved BCCI from major loss after hosting IPL amidst the pandemic situation.</p>

<p>"I know they are really excited about it, it's a big moment for them. I have found them to be very relatable, very human. We have all worked together in a way where everyone understands that we've got to keep cricket going," Hockey added.&nbsp;</p>


Nick Hockley, the newly appointed CEO of Cricket Australia, heaped praises on BCCI president Sourav Ganguly and called the former Indian skipper a fantastic character.

Nick Hockley, the newly appointed CEO of Cricket Australia, heaped praises on BCCI president Sourav Ganguly and called the former Indian skipper a fantastic character. ALSO READ: Cricket: Yuvraj Singh predicts opening duo of Team India for WTC Finals "He's just really great. He's a good, down-to-earth guy. I'll tell you what, there's no one that's more passionate about the game. And he's just been an absolute pleasure to deal with. We have been dealing with him recently because we have the Indian women's team coming out here for a Test match," Hockey said on The Grade Cricketer Podcast. On May 31, Hockley was appointed as Australian cricket board's CEO, whereas, Sourav Ganguly kicked off his innings as the BCCI president on October 23, 2019. IN PICS| Virat Kohli isn't the highest-paid captain in international cricket! - Check full list of skippers and salaries in 2021 Under Ganguly, Team India played their first-ever Day/Night Test at the Eden Gardens in 2019. He saved BCCI from major loss after hosting IPL amidst the pandemic situation. "I know they are really excited about it, it's a big moment for them. I have found them to be very relatable, very human. We have all worked together in a way where everyone understands that we've got to keep cricket going," Hockey added.

Cricket: 'He's just really great': Nick Hockley lauds BCCI prez Sourav Ganguly

<p>Former captain MS Dhoni has been an absolute legend in Indian cricket. Under his captaincy, Team India won all the ICC trophies. The wicket-keeper-batsman kicked off his captaincy in the year 2007 when he led the Men in Blue in the 2007 T20 World Cup, where India lifted the trophy. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-yuvraj-singh-predicts-opening-duo-of-team-india-for-wtc-finals-390411" hreflang="en">Cricket: Yuvraj Singh predicts opening duo of Team India for WTC Finals</a></p>

<p>However, former Indian all-rounder Yuvraj Singh, who was one of the main highlights in the tournament (2007 T20 World Cup) for his six 6s, recently revealed that he was expecting to be named captain over MS Dhoni for the tournament.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“So, basically, India had lost the 50-over World Cup, right? I mean there was quite a turmoil in Indian cricket and then there was a two-month tour of England and there was also a month tour in between with South Africa and Ireland. And then there was a month of T20 World Cup so there were like four months away from home.</p>

<p>“So probably the seniors thought that they need a break and obviously, nobody took the T20 World Cup seriously. I was expecting to captain India in the T20 World Cup and then it was announced MS Dhoni will be the captain,” Yuvraj told on the 22 Yarns podcast.</p>

<p>Yuvraj Singh went on to become the Man of the Tournament for his prolific performance in the inaugural T20 World Cup. The captaincy snub did not affect Yuvraj Singh's relations with MS Dhoni, in fact, the duo have stitched some massive partnerships together.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Yes, obviously, whoever becomes captain you got to support that guy whether it was Rahul, whether it was [Sourav] Ganguly, whoever in the future, end of the day you want to be a team man and that’s how I was,” Yuvraj added.</p>


Former captain MS Dhoni has been an absolute legend in Indian cricket. Under his captaincy, Team India won all the ICC trophies. The wicket-keeper-batsman kicked off his captaincy in the year 2007 when he led the Men in Blue in the 2007 T20 World Cup, where India lifted the trophy.

Former captain MS Dhoni has been an absolute legend in Indian cricket. Under his captaincy, Team India won all the ICC trophies. The wicket-keeper-batsman kicked off his captaincy in the year 2007 when he led the Men in Blue in the 2007 T20 World Cup, where India lifted the trophy. ALSO READ: Cricket: Yuvraj Singh predicts opening duo of Team India for WTC Finals However, former Indian all-rounder Yuvraj Singh, who was one of the main highlights in the tournament (2007 T20 World Cup) for his six 6s, recently revealed that he was expecting to be named captain over MS Dhoni for the tournament. “So, basically, India had lost the 50-over World Cup, right? I mean there was quite a turmoil in Indian cricket and then there was a two-month tour of England and there was also a month tour in between with South Africa and Ireland. And then there was a month of T20 World Cup so there were like four months away from home. “So probably the seniors thought that they need a break and obviously, nobody took the T20 World Cup seriously. I was expecting to captain India in the T20 World Cup and then it was announced MS Dhoni will be the captain,” Yuvraj told on the 22 Yarns podcast. Yuvraj Singh went on to become the Man of the Tournament for his prolific performance in the inaugural T20 World Cup. The captaincy snub did not affect Yuvraj Singh's relations with MS Dhoni, in fact, the duo have stitched some massive partnerships together. “Yes, obviously, whoever becomes captain you got to support that guy whether it was Rahul, whether it was [Sourav] Ganguly, whoever in the future, end of the day you want to be a team man and that’s how I was,” Yuvraj added.

Cricket- 'Was expecting to captain India in 2007 T20 World Cup': Yuvraj Singh

<p>Former Pakistan skipper lauded the duo of Ravi Shastri and Virat Kohli for creating a positive atmosphere in the team. Indian skipper Virat Kohli,&nbsp;under head coach Ravi Shastri, has&nbsp;achieved several feats.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-windies-recall-hope-against-south-africa-injured-gabriel-out-390271" hreflang="en">Cricket: Windies recall Hope against South Africa, injured Gabriel out</a></p>

<p>"At present, the Indian team is fearless while taking on any opposition including Pakistan. The cricketing system is also responsible for this change in Indian cricket. Virat Kohli and Shastri have created a winning environment in the team," Ramiz Raja told India TV.</p>

<p>"Any new player who joins the Indian set-up knows demands in international cricket. So, from a bowling point of view, the Indian team is better than ever. It has got variation as well as a good leader like Kohli."</p>

<p>Team India have been a dominant force in Test cricket and have won twice in Australia. Virat and Co., under Shastri, have performed well in ICC tournaments too, however, are yet to win one.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Ramiz, Team India are at its very best in terms of the bowling unit, whereas, he pointed out a few concerns with the team's batting lineup.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The Indian team is currently the best from a bowling point of view. On the batting front, I believe that there's still scope for improvement. Tendulkar, Dravid, Laxman, and Ganguly were a part of India's golden batting era. But from a winning point of view, especially in overseas conditions, the current Indian team has done a marvellous job. Coach Ravi Shastri also deserves credit for this," Raja explained.</p>


Former Pakistan skipper lauded the duo of Ravi Shastri and Virat Kohli for creating a positive atmosphere in the team. Indian skipper Virat Kohli, under head coach Ravi Shastri, has achieved several feats.

Former Pakistan skipper lauded the duo of Ravi Shastri and Virat Kohli for creating a positive atmosphere in the team. Indian skipper Virat Kohli, under head coach Ravi Shastri, has achieved several feats. ALSO READ: Cricket: Windies recall Hope against South Africa, injured Gabriel out "At present, the Indian team is fearless while taking on any opposition including Pakistan. The cricketing system is also responsible for this change in Indian cricket. Virat Kohli and Shastri have created a winning environment in the team," Ramiz Raja told India TV. "Any new player who joins the Indian set-up knows demands in international cricket. So, from a bowling point of view, the Indian team is better than ever. It has got variation as well as a good leader like Kohli." Team India have been a dominant force in Test cricket and have won twice in Australia. Virat and Co., under Shastri, have performed well in ICC tournaments too, however, are yet to win one. According to Ramiz, Team India are at its very best in terms of the bowling unit, whereas, he pointed out a few concerns with the team's batting lineup. "The Indian team is currently the best from a bowling point of view. On the batting front, I believe that there's still scope for improvement. Tendulkar, Dravid, Laxman, and Ganguly were a part of India's golden batting era. But from a winning point of view, especially in overseas conditions, the current Indian team has done a marvellous job. Coach Ravi Shastri also deserves credit for this," Raja explained.

Cricket: 'Virat Kohli and Ravi Shastri have created winning environment in team', says Ramiz Raja

<p>Former Indian batsman Virender Sehwag played at the international level for around 14 years. His brute batting style made him one of the most feared batsmen.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/danish-kaneria-feels-this-indian-batsman-is-due-for-double-century-in-wtc-finals-390359" hreflang="en">Danish Kaneria feels this Indian batsman is 'due for double-century' in WTC Finals</a></p>

<p>He began his journey with the Men in Blue as a middle-order batsman and went on to become a prolific opener for the team.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, Sehwag has now said that he would have played for India at a younger age had he got the support of modern technologies like the internet.</p>

<p>"Today, there are videos available on the internet about all things cricket to learn for the younger people. Maybe if I had those facilities in my day, I would have learned things faster and possibly had played for the Indian team at a younger age," Sehwag said while speaking during the launch of the Circuru App.</p>

<p>Virender Sehwag was the first batsman to smash a triple century in Test cricket, he is also the only batsman to score a triple ton twice.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He revealed that he first started watching cricket during the 1992 World Cup and was inspired by Sachin Tendulkar's straight drive.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I started seeing cricket on television during the 1992 World Cup and by looking on television, I tried to learn the straight drive of Sachin Tendulkar," he said.</p>


Former Indian batsman Virender Sehwag played at the international level for around 14 years. His brute batting style made him one of the most feared batsmen. ALSO READ: Danish Kaneria feels this Indian batsman is 'due for double-century' in WTC Finals He began his journey with the Men in Blue as a middle-order batsman and went on to become a prolific opener for the team.

Former Indian batsman Virender Sehwag played at the international level for around 14 years. His brute batting style made him one of the most feared batsmen. ALSO READ: Danish Kaneria feels this Indian batsman is 'due for double-century' in WTC Finals He began his journey with the Men in Blue as a middle-order batsman and went on to become a prolific opener for the team. However, Sehwag has now said that he would have played for India at a younger age had he got the support of modern technologies like the internet. "Today, there are videos available on the internet about all things cricket to learn for the younger people. Maybe if I had those facilities in my day, I would have learned things faster and possibly had played for the Indian team at a younger age," Sehwag said while speaking during the launch of the Circuru App. Virender Sehwag was the first batsman to smash a triple century in Test cricket, he is also the only batsman to score a triple ton twice. He revealed that he first started watching cricket during the 1992 World Cup and was inspired by Sachin Tendulkar's straight drive. "I started seeing cricket on television during the 1992 World Cup and by looking on television, I tried to learn the straight drive of Sachin Tendulkar," he said.

Cricket: 'With better facilities, I would've played for the India at a younger age' - Virender Sehwag

<p>Former New Zealand skipper Brendon McCullum lauded Team India's bowling attack and said that their unit are best to travel to all conditions.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-rankings-grand-entry-for-devon-conway-in-mens-test-player-list-390324" hreflang="en">ICC Rankings: Grand entry for Devon Conway in Men's Test Player list</a></p>

<p>“I can only really talk about the time I was around the international game. India have had the likes of Kapil Dev, Javagal Srinath but I think in the last 20 years would have to be close to their best seam-bowling line-up. And then spinners Ravindra Jadeja and R Ashwin as well. I think, it's probably the most-rounded bowling line-up and is probably the best bowling line-up to probably travel to all conditions,” McCullum told sports today.</p>

<p>Brendon McCullum's comments came two weeks ahead of the much-awaited World Test Championship that will be played between Virat Kohli's Team India and Kane Williamson's New Zealand at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton.</p>

<p>Team India are yet to begin training as they are quarantining in the Hilton Hotel, whereas, the BlackCaps are preparing to take on England in the final Test against the hosts after the first game ended in a draw at Lord’s.</p>

<p>Earlier, former Pak skipper Ramiz Raja alos said that Team India are at its very best in terms of the bowling unit, however, he pointed out a few concerns with the team's batting lineup.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The Indian team is currently the best from a bowling point of view. On the batting front, I believe that there's still scope for improvement. Tendulkar, Dravid, Laxman, and Ganguly were a part of India's golden batting era. But from a winning point of view, especially in overseas conditions, the current Indian team has done a marvellous job. Coach Ravi Shastri also deserves credit for this," Raja explained.</p>


Former New Zealand skipper Brendon McCullum lauded Team India's bowling attack and said that their unit are best to travel to all conditions. ALSO READ: ICC Rankings: Grand entry for Devon Conway in Men's Test Player list “I can only really talk about the time I was around the international game.

Former New Zealand skipper Brendon McCullum lauded Team India's bowling attack and said that their unit are best to travel to all conditions. ALSO READ: ICC Rankings: Grand entry for Devon Conway in Men's Test Player list “I can only really talk about the time I was around the international game. India have had the likes of Kapil Dev, Javagal Srinath but I think in the last 20 years would have to be close to their best seam-bowling line-up. And then spinners Ravindra Jadeja and R Ashwin as well. I think, it's probably the most-rounded bowling line-up and is probably the best bowling line-up to probably travel to all conditions,” McCullum told sports today. Brendon McCullum's comments came two weeks ahead of the much-awaited World Test Championship that will be played between Virat Kohli's Team India and Kane Williamson's New Zealand at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton. Team India are yet to begin training as they are quarantining in the Hilton Hotel, whereas, the BlackCaps are preparing to take on England in the final Test against the hosts after the first game ended in a draw at Lord’s. Earlier, former Pak skipper Ramiz Raja alos said that Team India are at its very best in terms of the bowling unit, however, he pointed out a few concerns with the team's batting lineup. "The Indian team is currently the best from a bowling point of view. On the batting front, I believe that there's still scope for improvement. Tendulkar, Dravid, Laxman, and Ganguly were a part of India's golden batting era. But from a winning point of view, especially in overseas conditions, the current Indian team has done a marvellous job. Coach Ravi Shastri also deserves credit for this," Raja explained.

Cricket- 'India has best bowling line-up to probably travel to all conditions': Brendon McCullum

<p>Pakistan pacer Hasan Ali is regarded as one of the talented pacers in international cricket. He has 131 wickets in limited-overs cricket. In a recent interview, Hasan Ali revealed the toughest batsman to bowl to.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-maninder-singh-wants-ashwin-and-jadeja-to-play-together-in-wtc-finals-389727" hreflang="en">Cricket: Maninder Singh wants Ashwin and Jadeja to play in WTC finals</a></p>

<p>According to Hasan Ali, Indian opener Rohit Sharma is the toughest batsman he has bowled to. Rohit Sharma has been successful against Pakistan's bowling attack, the prolific opener smashed back to back centuries in the last two ODIs the two teams played against each other.</p>

<p>"There are a lot of batsmen who on their given day can give you a tough time but from what I've closely noticed, the one batsman I feel can give me a tough time it's Rohit Sharma. We saw it during the Asia Cup and as well as the World Cup. During the Champions Trophy, I didn't have much of a chance to bowl to him but I feel that if it's his day, he can hurt a lot. He really troubles me," he said.</p>

<p>Rohit has faced Ali in 87 deliveries, in which the Indian batsman smashed 95 runs and has been dismissed once.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"He has a lot of potential and he can hit you anywhere. He plays the ball late, comes in line of the ball. And the pick-up shot which he plays is not easy. Not everyone can play that and he has this ability," added Ali.</p>


Pakistan pacer Hasan Ali is regarded as one of the talented pacers in international cricket. He has 131 wickets in limited-overs cricket. In a recent interview, Hasan Ali revealed the toughest batsman to bowl to.

Pakistan pacer Hasan Ali is regarded as one of the talented pacers in international cricket. He has 131 wickets in limited-overs cricket. In a recent interview, Hasan Ali revealed the toughest batsman to bowl to. ALSO READ: Cricket: Maninder Singh wants Ashwin and Jadeja to play in WTC finals According to Hasan Ali, Indian opener Rohit Sharma is the toughest batsman he has bowled to. Rohit Sharma has been successful against Pakistan's bowling attack, the prolific opener smashed back to back centuries in the last two ODIs the two teams played against each other. "There are a lot of batsmen who on their given day can give you a tough time but from what I've closely noticed, the one batsman I feel can give me a tough time it's Rohit Sharma. We saw it during the Asia Cup and as well as the World Cup. During the Champions Trophy, I didn't have much of a chance to bowl to him but I feel that if it's his day, he can hurt a lot. He really troubles me," he said. Rohit has faced Ali in 87 deliveries, in which the Indian batsman smashed 95 runs and has been dismissed once. "He has a lot of potential and he can hit you anywhere. He plays the ball late, comes in line of the ball. And the pick-up shot which he plays is not easy. Not everyone can play that and he has this ability," added Ali.

'One batsman I feel can give me a tough time it's Rohit Sharma', says Hasan Ali

<p>Indian cricketing legend Sunil Gavaskar explained the reason why he never thought of getting into coaching. The Little Master became the first cricketer to cross 10,000 run-mark in the game of cricket, he retired from international cricket in 1987.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-sri-lankan-players-refuse-to-sign-new-contracts-but-ready-to-feature-in-england-tour-389763" hreflang="en">Cricket: Sri Lankan players refuse to sign new contracts but ready to feature in England tour</a></p>

<p>"I've been a terrible watcher of cricket, even when I was playing the game. If I got out, I would be watching the match very intermittently. I would watch for a while, then go inside the change room or read something or reply to letters etc. and then come out and watch again. So, I wasn't the ball-by-ball watcher, like say GR Vishwanath is. GRV or my uncle Madhav Mantri was a complete ball by ball watcher. And if you want to be a coach or a selector, you've got to be a ball-by-ball watcher. And therefore, I never even thought about it… being a coach," Gavaskar said on 'The Analyst' YouTube channel, in response to a query.</p>

<p>Gavaskar might not be up for coaching, however, he is always up for guiding players. Gavaskar said that he 'exchanged notes' with the likes of Sachin, Rahul Dravid, Ganguly, Sehwag and Laxman.</p>

<p>"Having said that, I’ve had people coming up to me. Not the current lot, but say Sachin, Rahul Dravid, Ganguly, Sehwag and Laxman. So I’ve been very happy to exchange notes with them… whatever my observations are. So yes, I’ve been able to maybe help them somewhere down the line, but on a full-time basis, that's not something I could do," said the former India captain.</p>


Indian cricketing legend Sunil Gavaskar explained the reason why he never thought of getting into coaching. The Little Master became the first cricketer to cross 10,000 run-mark in the game of cricket, he retired from international cricket in 1987.

Indian cricketing legend Sunil Gavaskar explained the reason why he never thought of getting into coaching. The Little Master became the first cricketer to cross 10,000 run-mark in the game of cricket, he retired from international cricket in 1987. ALSO READ: Cricket: Sri Lankan players refuse to sign new contracts but ready to feature in England tour "I've been a terrible watcher of cricket, even when I was playing the game. If I got out, I would be watching the match very intermittently. I would watch for a while, then go inside the change room or read something or reply to letters etc. and then come out and watch again. So, I wasn't the ball-by-ball watcher, like say GR Vishwanath is. GRV or my uncle Madhav Mantri was a complete ball by ball watcher. And if you want to be a coach or a selector, you've got to be a ball-by-ball watcher. And therefore, I never even thought about it… being a coach," Gavaskar said on 'The Analyst' YouTube channel, in response to a query. Gavaskar might not be up for coaching, however, he is always up for guiding players. Gavaskar said that he 'exchanged notes' with the likes of Sachin, Rahul Dravid, Ganguly, Sehwag and Laxman. "Having said that, I’ve had people coming up to me. Not the current lot, but say Sachin, Rahul Dravid, Ganguly, Sehwag and Laxman. So I’ve been very happy to exchange notes with them… whatever my observations are. So yes, I’ve been able to maybe help them somewhere down the line, but on a full-time basis, that's not something I could do," said the former India captain.

'Terrible watcher of cricket': Sunil Gavaskar explains the reason behind not coaching Team India

<p>Cricketing legend Sunil Gavaskar lauded Team India under Virat Kohli's leadership and said that it is the best ever in the history of Indian history. Team India has ranked number one in Test cricket for five years in a row.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-have-to-be-careful-dilip-vengsarkars-piece-of-advice-to-virat-and-co-ahead-of-wtc-final-389643" hreflang="en">'You have to be careful': Dilip Vengsarkar's piece of advice to Virat and Co. ahead of WTC final</a></p>

<p>"Comparisons are always a little bit difficult but I think this is probably the finest Indian team that we have seen. It's such a well-balanced team. It's got champion batsmen, it's got champion fast bowlers, fabulous spinners. They've got a very good wicketkeeper. A young wicketkeeper who is going to dominate world cricket for a long, long time," Gavaskar said on the Analyst Show in YouTube.</p>

<p>"I believe that from what I have seen, from 1960 onwards, this has got to be the best Indian team ever. For the simple reason that it's so balanced. There is no weakness at all. You could say at the top, or here and there, but I don't think there is any weakness in this Indian team," Gavaskar pointed out.</p>

<p>In recent years, Team India has produced several match-winners. The team has beaten the mighty Australians in their home conditions not once but twice. They have been a dominant force in Test cricket for some years now. Despite several obstacles, Virat and Co. managed to top the World Test Championship points table to book a berth in the finals, which will be played from June 18 at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton against Kane Williamson's New Zealand.&nbsp;</p>


Cricketing legend Sunil Gavaskar lauded Team India under Virat Kohli's leadership and said that it is the best ever in the history of Indian history. Team India has ranked number one in Test cricket for five years in a row.

Cricketing legend Sunil Gavaskar lauded Team India under Virat Kohli's leadership and said that it is the best ever in the history of Indian history. Team India has ranked number one in Test cricket for five years in a row. ALSO READ: 'You have to be careful': Dilip Vengsarkar's piece of advice to Virat and Co. ahead of WTC final "Comparisons are always a little bit difficult but I think this is probably the finest Indian team that we have seen. It's such a well-balanced team. It's got champion batsmen, it's got champion fast bowlers, fabulous spinners. They've got a very good wicketkeeper. A young wicketkeeper who is going to dominate world cricket for a long, long time," Gavaskar said on the Analyst Show in YouTube. "I believe that from what I have seen, from 1960 onwards, this has got to be the best Indian team ever. For the simple reason that it's so balanced. There is no weakness at all. You could say at the top, or here and there, but I don't think there is any weakness in this Indian team," Gavaskar pointed out. In recent years, Team India has produced several match-winners. The team has beaten the mighty Australians in their home conditions not once but twice. They have been a dominant force in Test cricket for some years now. Despite several obstacles, Virat and Co. managed to top the World Test Championship points table to book a berth in the finals, which will be played from June 18 at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton against Kane Williamson's New Zealand.

Cricket- 'This has got to be best Indian team ever': Sunil Gavaskar lauds Virat and Co.

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