Indian batting stalwart Cheteshwar Pujara reached his second double-century since joining Sussex, to give the hosts a superb chance to secure their first win of the season in the County Championship. 
 
However, in the final half of the day on Saturday, an unbroken opening stand of 169 between Alex Lees and Sean Dickson gave Durham a chance of saving the match, after they had conceded a first-innings lead of 315. 
 
Dickson completed his century just before the close, off 137 balls, while Lees finished with 50 not out, according to sussexcricket.co.uk. Earlier, Sussex had continued to dominate their fixture against one of the favourites for promotion as their overseas stars Pujara and Mohammad Rizwan put on 154 for the sixth wicket. 
 
Pujara scored 203, his second double century in three matches, while Rizwan found his form on his home debut with an innings of 79 as Sussex piled on 538. There are enough cracks on the pitch to encourage the Sussex spinners on the final day. But Durham, who are 146 runs behind, have a good chance of a fighting draw on what is still a good surface. 
 
In the first session on Saturday, Sussex scored 128 runs without losing a wicket. The game changed dramatically after lunch, when Sussex lost five wickets for 34 runs in nine overs as left-armer Liam Trevaskis followed his 88 runs with figures of 5/128. That still gave Sussex a huge first-innings advantage. But the Durham openers batted superbly in the final session to give their side hope.

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The day started with Sussex on 362 for five, with Pujara 128 not out and Rizwan unbeaten on five. The Indian batting stalwart rocked onto the back foot and punched the first ball of the morning for four. He scored just eight runs in the opening 45 minutes, and it was Rizwan who was the more aggressive of the two batters, scoring 36 by the time the pair had put on fifty. 
 
At lunch, Sussex had reached 490/5, a lead of 267, with Pujara 186 and Rizwan 74. The 150 partnerships, which coincided with the side reaching 500, came off 149 balls. But four runs later Rizwan was brilliantly caught at deep square-leg. Delray Rawlins, then got off the mark with a slogged six over midwicket but, pulling, was bowled for 12. Two overs later Pujara, venturing down the wicket to Trevaskis, was stumped. He faced 334 balls and struck 24 fours. 
 
Pujara added 99 runs for the fourth wicket alongside Tom Alsop, 143 runs for the fifth wicket with Tom Clark and a terrific 154-run partnership alongside Rizwan for the next wicket during his marathon knock.

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His knock came to an end after lasting at the crease for a whopping 118 overs when he was stumped off the last ball of the 152nd over of the innings. 
 
Pujara has returned scores of 6, 201 not out, 109 and 203 in the four innings that he has played so far. With his latest feat, Pujara equalled a 28-year-old record as he became the second Indian after former Indian skipper Mohammad Azharuddin to make two double hundreds in the English County Championship. This was also Pujara`s 15th double hundred in his First-class career.

Indian batting stalwart Cheteshwar Pujara reached his second double-century since joining Sussex, to give the hosts a superb chance to secure their first win of the season in the County Championship.

Indian batting stalwart Cheteshwar Pujara reached his second double-century since joining Sussex, to give the hosts a superb chance to secure their first win of the season in the County Championship. However, in the final half of the day on Saturday, an unbroken opening stand of 169 between Alex Lees and Sean Dickson gave Durham a chance of saving the match, after they had conceded a first-innings lead of 315. Dickson completed his century just before the close, off 137 balls, while Lees finished with 50 not out, according to sussexcricket.co.uk. Earlier, Sussex had continued to dominate their fixture against one of the favourites for promotion as their overseas stars Pujara and Mohammad Rizwan put on 154 for the sixth wicket. Pujara scored 203, his second double century in three matches, while Rizwan found his form on his home debut with an innings of 79 as Sussex piled on 538. There are enough cracks on the pitch to encourage the Sussex spinners on the final day. But Durham, who are 146 runs behind, have a good chance of a fighting draw on what is still a good surface. In the first session on Saturday, Sussex scored 128 runs without losing a wicket. The game changed dramatically after lunch, when Sussex lost five wickets for 34 runs in nine overs as left-armer Liam Trevaskis followed his 88 runs with figures of 5/128. That still gave Sussex a huge first-innings advantage. But the Durham openers batted superbly in the final session to give their side hope. Also Read: NFL duo Larry Fitzgerald, Kelvin Beachum and NBA star Chris Paul invest in IPL franchise Rajasthan Royals The day started with Sussex on 362 for five, with Pujara 128 not out and Rizwan unbeaten on five. The Indian batting stalwart rocked onto the back foot and punched the first ball of the morning for four. He scored just eight runs in the opening 45 minutes, and it was Rizwan who was the more aggressive of the two batters, scoring 36 by the time the pair had put on fifty. At lunch, Sussex had reached 490/5, a lead of 267, with Pujara 186 and Rizwan 74. The 150 partnerships, which coincided with the side reaching 500, came off 149 balls. But four runs later Rizwan was brilliantly caught at deep square-leg. Delray Rawlins, then got off the mark with a slogged six over midwicket but, pulling, was bowled for 12. Two overs later Pujara, venturing down the wicket to Trevaskis, was stumped. He faced 334 balls and struck 24 fours. Pujara added 99 runs for the fourth wicket alongside Tom Alsop, 143 runs for the fifth wicket with Tom Clark and a terrific 154-run partnership alongside Rizwan for the next wicket during his marathon knock. Also Read: 'We do not interfere': CSK CEO reveals who took the decision to hand over captaincy back to MS Dhoni His knock came to an end after lasting at the crease for a whopping 118 overs when he was stumped off the last ball of the 152nd over of the innings. Pujara has returned scores of 6, 201 not out, 109 and 203 in the four innings that he has played so far. With his latest feat, Pujara equalled a 28-year-old record as he became the second Indian after former Indian skipper Mohammad Azharuddin to make two double hundreds in the English County Championship. This was also Pujara`s 15th double hundred in his First-class career.

Cheteshwar Pujara becomes 2nd Indian after Azhar to slam two double hundreds in county cricket

It was a debut to remember for Cheteshwar Pujara as the India batsman scored an unbeaten double hundred to grab a draw for Sussex during their 2022 County Championship match against Derbyshire on Sunday. The right-hander, known for his discipline and defensive game, played his trademark game as he scored 201 off 387 balls with the help of 23 boundaries to save the game for his side.

Pujara currently has 14 double centuries in first class cricket – the most by any cricketer since the start of the 21st century. The knock against Derbyshire allowed him to surpass Sri Lanka legend Kumar Sangakkara who scored 13 double centuries.

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The batsman also became the second Indian cricketer to score a double century in county cricket after Mohammad Azharuddin who represented Derbyshire. The former Indian cricket team skipper scored 212 against Leicestershire in 1991 and 205 against Durham in 1994.

Pujara, who has not played for India since the tour of South Africa, stitched together a 351-run stand with Tom Haines (243) as Sussex were able to draw the encounter after being followed on.

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This was the first instance when two batsmen scored double centuries in the same first-class innings after their team was followed on. Pujara and Haines also became the first pair for Sussex to score double centuries in the same innings since 1921.

On the personal front, this ended a century draught for Pujara lasting 52 first-class innings with the last ton coming way back in 2020 when he scored 248 for Saurashtra against Karnataka.

It was a debut to remember for Cheteshwar Pujara as the India batsman scored an unbeaten double hundred to grab a draw for Sussex during their 2022 County Championship match against Derbyshire on Sunday.

It was a debut to remember for Cheteshwar Pujara as the India batsman scored an unbeaten double hundred to grab a draw for Sussex during their 2022 County Championship match against Derbyshire on Sunday. The right-hander, known for his discipline and defensive game, played his trademark game as he scored 201 off 387 balls with the help of 23 boundaries to save the game for his side. Pujara currently has 14 double centuries in first class cricket – the most by any cricketer since the start of the 21st century. The knock against Derbyshire allowed him to surpass Sri Lanka legend Kumar Sangakkara who scored 13 double centuries. Also read | Delhi Capitals under quarantine after cricketer tests positive for COVID-19 The batsman also became the second Indian cricketer to score a double century in county cricket after Mohammad Azharuddin who represented Derbyshire. The former Indian cricket team skipper scored 212 against Leicestershire in 1991 and 205 against Durham in 1994. Pujara, who has not played for India since the tour of South Africa, stitched together a 351-run stand with Tom Haines (243) as Sussex were able to draw the encounter after being followed on. Also read | Jaffer picks underrated XI of all time, includes one Indian cricketer in team This was the first instance when two batsmen scored double centuries in the same first-class innings after their team was followed on. Pujara and Haines also became the first pair for Sussex to score double centuries in the same innings since 1921. On the personal front, this ended a century draught for Pujara lasting 52 first-class innings with the last ton coming way back in 2020 when he scored 248 for Saurashtra against Karnataka.

Cheteshwar Pujara scripts history with first-class double century on debut for Sussex

India`s Test batter Cheteshwar Pujara and Pakistan`s wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan made their Sussex debut for the game against Derbyshire in the County Championships on Thursday. 
 
With plenty of positives to build on from the opening defeat to Nottinghamshire, head coach Ian Salisbury has included both Rizwan and Pujara in the matchday squad against Derbyshire.

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Salisbury is delighted to be able to call upon the two new overseas players who recently joined up with the team this week. 
 
"I am extremely excited to be able to bring in players of Rizwan and Pujara`s quality into the side. Not only are they absolute world-class cricketers that will boost our performances on the pitch, but to have them around the boys and in the dressing room can only be a positive," he said in a statement.

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Looking ahead to the match itself, Salisbury is looking to see further improvement from the squad, "There was plenty for me to be happy about with our performance against Notts, but also there are areas in which we can improve. I am looking forward to the challenge and hope to see even more progression from the boys." 
 
Pujara has been a regular feature in England`s first-class cricket, but the Pakistan wicketkeeper is making his County debut on Thursday.

India`s Test batter Cheteshwar Pujara and Pakistan`s wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan made their Sussex debut for the game against Derbyshire in the County Championships on Thursday.

India`s Test batter Cheteshwar Pujara and Pakistan`s wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan made their Sussex debut for the game against Derbyshire in the County Championships on Thursday. With plenty of positives to build on from the opening defeat to Nottinghamshire, head coach Ian Salisbury has included both Rizwan and Pujara in the matchday squad against Derbyshire. Also read | Kohli takes top spot in Australia legend's ranking of 'Fab Five' in Tests Salisbury is delighted to be able to call upon the two new overseas players who recently joined up with the team this week. "I am extremely excited to be able to bring in players of Rizwan and Pujara`s quality into the side. Not only are they absolute world-class cricketers that will boost our performances on the pitch, but to have them around the boys and in the dressing room can only be a positive," he said in a statement. Also read | IPL 2022: Former India opener has his say on CSK and MI's playoff chances Looking ahead to the match itself, Salisbury is looking to see further improvement from the squad, "There was plenty for me to be happy about with our performance against Notts, but also there are areas in which we can improve. I am looking forward to the challenge and hope to see even more progression from the boys." Pujara has been a regular feature in England`s first-class cricket, but the Pakistan wicketkeeper is making his County debut on Thursday.

India's Cheteshwar Pujara and Pakistan's Mohammad Rizwan make Sussex debut together

Rishabh Pant was having a torrid time at the highest level prior to India's tour of Australia in 2020-21. Ahead of the epic tour Down Under, Pant was under the scanner for his keeping, fitness concerns and shot selections as many former cricketers and experts called for his omission.

Nonetheless, the script changed emphatically for Pant ever since he was included in the playing XI during the second Test, at the MCG, Melbourne, during the Australia tour. The left-hander played a gutsy and match-saving 97 in the third and penultimate Test, at the SCG, Sydney, before playing the best knock of his career, so far, with a match-winning 89 not out in the final Test, at Brisbane, to help India win the series 2-1.

Recently, Pant recalled his SCG Test heroics, where he battled injury to slam a memorable 97 and helped the visitors to a draw on the final day.&nbsp;

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Speaking to India women's star cricketer Jemimah Rodrigues, on Dream 11, Pant said, "We were under pressure, they gave us some 400 something. Injury&nbsp;happened in the first innings. He bowled a bounce, it kept low and it hit my elbow and I was unable to move my hand in the first innings. I didn't keep in the second innings. Wriddhi (Wriddhiman Saha)&nbsp;bhai&nbsp;did all the keeping."

"We went for a scan and it was bone bruise. It wasn't a major injury, but it was very painful. We were talking to the physios because I had to bat, by hook or by crook. So we decided to take injection to help with the pain. We have to see in the nets obviously, at first. So, I took the painkiller injection during the game, went to the nets and I was trying to hold the bat but it was paining. I couldn't hold my bat properly. After this there's Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood and they will be bowling a lot faster," he pointed out.

Pant opined, “I was just telling myself, 'you have to do this, there is no choice.' Firstly, there was no intention of winning the match. First goal was to draw, because it was the last day and we needed 400 runs. Then there was an idea of making me bat at No.5 because I was injured and even if I got out then the batters to come could still look to remake. It was still paining and on top of that I took a painkiller pill too."

"Rahane got out before lunch and I got tensed. I went inside, I couldn't get my way, pressure was building, Aussies were sledging and because they were up in the game and they wanted to win. Then it was my threshold, mid on was up and he bowled me there and I hit him over mid on for a boundary. Next ball he bowled there, after a few overs, and I hit him for a six. Next over the long on was back and I was playing my normal game and I was getting runs," he revealed.

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"Then there was good partnership that happened between me a Pujara and suddenly the momentum of the match changed and we were in a position to win the match. And slowly, my pain started lessening because I was concentrating entirely on every ball and so the focus on the pain went away.

"Then I scored 97. I was feeling bad, but not for missing out on my hundred because I felt that I could have won the match for India from there," added Pant.

While Pant couldn't lead India to a win in the third Test, he stood tall in the final Test with an attacking 89 not out at Australia's fortress, at The Gabba, Brisbane, to help Ajinkya Rahane-led visitors chase down 328 on the final day of the series.

Without then regular captain Virat Kohli, India bounced back in style -- riding on Pant, Washington Sundar, Md Siraj, Shubman Gill, Rahane, Pujara, Shardul Thakur, etc. -- to claim the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2-1.

Rishabh Pant was having a torrid time at the highest level prior to India's tour of Australia in 2020-21. Ahead of the epic tour Down Under, Pant was under the scanner for his keeping, fitness concerns and shot selections as many former cricketers and experts called for his omission.

Rishabh Pant was having a torrid time at the highest level prior to India's tour of Australia in 2020-21. Ahead of the epic tour Down Under, Pant was under the scanner for his keeping, fitness concerns and shot selections as many former cricketers and experts called for his omission. Nonetheless, the script changed emphatically for Pant ever since he was included in the playing XI during the second Test, at the MCG, Melbourne, during the Australia tour. The left-hander played a gutsy and match-saving 97 in the third and penultimate Test, at the SCG, Sydney, before playing the best knock of his career, so far, with a match-winning 89 not out in the final Test, at Brisbane, to help India win the series 2-1. Recently, Pant recalled his SCG Test heroics, where he battled injury to slam a memorable 97 and helped the visitors to a draw on the final day. ALSO READ | Rohit Sharma, Rahul Dravid are in the saddle now: Vikram Rathour heaps praise on Indian youngster Speaking to India women's star cricketer Jemimah Rodrigues, on Dream 11, Pant said, "We were under pressure, they gave us some 400 something. Injury happened in the first innings. He bowled a bounce, it kept low and it hit my elbow and I was unable to move my hand in the first innings. I didn't keep in the second innings. Wriddhi (Wriddhiman Saha) bhai did all the keeping." "We went for a scan and it was bone bruise. It wasn't a major injury, but it was very painful. We were talking to the physios because I had to bat, by hook or by crook. So we decided to take injection to help with the pain. We have to see in the nets obviously, at first. So, I took the painkiller injection during the game, went to the nets and I was trying to hold the bat but it was paining. I couldn't hold my bat properly. After this there's Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood and they will be bowling a lot faster," he pointed out. Pant opined, “I was just telling myself, 'you have to do this, there is no choice.' Firstly, there was no intention of winning the match. First goal was to draw, because it was the last day and we needed 400 runs. Then there was an idea of making me bat at No.5 because I was injured and even if I got out then the batters to come could still look to remake. It was still paining and on top of that I took a painkiller pill too." "Rahane got out before lunch and I got tensed. I went inside, I couldn't get my way, pressure was building, Aussies were sledging and because they were up in the game and they wanted to win. Then it was my threshold, mid on was up and he bowled me there and I hit him over mid on for a boundary. Next ball he bowled there, after a few overs, and I hit him for a six. Next over the long on was back and I was playing my normal game and I was getting runs," he revealed. ALSO READ | 'I was talking to Rohit Sharma, MS Dhoni' - Rishabh Pant recalls his tough phase before miraculous comeback "Then there was good partnership that happened between me a Pujara and suddenly the momentum of the match changed and we were in a position to win the match. And slowly, my pain started lessening because I was concentrating entirely on every ball and so the focus on the pain went away. "Then I scored 97. I was feeling bad, but not for missing out on my hundred because I felt that I could have won the match for India from there," added Pant. While Pant couldn't lead India to a win in the third Test, he stood tall in the final Test with an attacking 89 not out at Australia's fortress, at The Gabba, Brisbane, to help Ajinkya Rahane-led visitors chase down 328 on the final day of the series. Without then regular captain Virat Kohli, India bounced back in style -- riding on Pant, Washington Sundar, Md Siraj, Shubman Gill, Rahane, Pujara, Shardul Thakur, etc. -- to claim the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2-1.

Couldn't hold my bat properly: Rishabh Pant recalls how he battled injury to help India save SCG Test

Rohit Sharma went on to clean sweep his maiden Test series as a skipper as India beat Sri Lanka by 238 runs in the Day-Night Test match here at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium to sweep the two-match series 2-0.

In challenging conditions to bat under the lights the Indian batters struggled but Shreyas Iyer's strategy to attack paid him rich dividends as he top-scored for India in both innings scoring 92 and 67.

His superlative performance helped him earn the 'Player of the Match'&nbsp;award as well as the praise of his skipper.

"Shreyas just carried on from where he left off in the T20 series against Sri Lanka. He seemed to carry that form into the Test series. He knew he was stepping into the big shoes of guys like Rahane and Pujara, but he has everything that he requires. He will be better now when he starts travelling," said Indian captain Virat Kohli.

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Ravindra Jadeja was India's star performer in the previous match in Mohali performing with both bat and ball.

"We have seen Jadeja grow as a batter and he seems to get better and better. He strengthens the team, and he's also improving as a bowler. And he`s a gun fielder, so he is a complete package," told Rohit Sharma.

Wicket-keeper batter Rishabh Pant played a knock of 39 of 26 balls in the first innings and scored the fastest Test half-century by an Indian in a Test match breaking Kapil Dev's record of achieving the same in 30 balls way back in 1982 against Pakistan in Karachi.

Pant also affected five dismissals in the match.

His all-around performance in the series helped him bag the 'Player of the Series' award.

"Rishabh seems to get better with each game that he plays. Especially in these conditions. We saw it in the England series (last year) and now. A couple of catches and stumpings showed how confident he is," said Rohit Sharma.

India were playing its third Test match on home soil and they have won all three inside three days.

"It's been a good run and I have enjoyed it personally and as a team. We wanted to achieve a few things as a team, and we have done that. Pink-ball Tests are challenging. We never knew what it was like to play with the pink ball in India, but we are learning to make those adjustments. The crowd just makes it more special," told Rohit Sharma.

Rohit Sharma went on to clean sweep his maiden Test series as a skipper as India beat Sri Lanka by 238 runs in the Day-Night Test match here at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium to sweep the two-match series 2-0.

Rohit Sharma went on to clean sweep his maiden Test series as a skipper as India beat Sri Lanka by 238 runs in the Day-Night Test match here at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium to sweep the two-match series 2-0. In challenging conditions to bat under the lights the Indian batters struggled but Shreyas Iyer's strategy to attack paid him rich dividends as he top-scored for India in both innings scoring 92 and 67. His superlative performance helped him earn the 'Player of the Match' award as well as the praise of his skipper. "Shreyas just carried on from where he left off in the T20 series against Sri Lanka. He seemed to carry that form into the Test series. He knew he was stepping into the big shoes of guys like Rahane and Pujara, but he has everything that he requires. He will be better now when he starts travelling," said Indian captain Virat Kohli. ALSO READ: Rishabh Pant will end up being one of the greats like MS Dhoni for Team India, says Dinesh Karthik Ravindra Jadeja was India's star performer in the previous match in Mohali performing with both bat and ball. "We have seen Jadeja grow as a batter and he seems to get better and better. He strengthens the team, and he's also improving as a bowler. And he`s a gun fielder, so he is a complete package," told Rohit Sharma. Wicket-keeper batter Rishabh Pant played a knock of 39 of 26 balls in the first innings and scored the fastest Test half-century by an Indian in a Test match breaking Kapil Dev's record of achieving the same in 30 balls way back in 1982 against Pakistan in Karachi. Pant also affected five dismissals in the match. His all-around performance in the series helped him bag the 'Player of the Series' award. "Rishabh seems to get better with each game that he plays. Especially in these conditions. We saw it in the England series (last year) and now. A couple of catches and stumpings showed how confident he is," said Rohit Sharma. India were playing its third Test match on home soil and they have won all three inside three days. "It's been a good run and I have enjoyed it personally and as a team. We wanted to achieve a few things as a team, and we have done that. Pink-ball Tests are challenging. We never knew what it was like to play with the pink ball in India, but we are learning to make those adjustments. The crowd just makes it more special," told Rohit Sharma.

Shreyas Iyer knew he was stepping into big shoes of Rahane and Pujara, says skipper Rohit Sharma

From top earners to players with big pay cuts: BCCI's new central contracts list for 2021-22

Former India opener Gautam Gambhir believes it won't be too difficult for Rohit Sharma to succeed as captain for India in Tests. Rohit is leading India in his first Test series as the captain of the side, against Sri Lanka in Mohali. After a dream start to his stint as India's full-time captain in limited-overs cricket, Rohit will be hoping to get off to a winning start in Tests.

While Rohit has already established his credentials as an exceptional captain in white-ball cricket, the Hitman is yet to prove his mettle as captain in the longest format. However, Gambhir believes Rohit won't find it tough to succeed in Tests given the kind of bowling strength India developed during Virat Kohli's tenure as captain of the Test team.

Kohli, who stepped down as the Test captain of the Indian team in January this year, is often credited to have nurtured India's current world-class pace attack consisting of the likes of Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj and Ishan Sharma among others.

Though Ishant is not part of the ongoing two-match series against Sri Lanka, he was instrumental in India's success in Tests under Kohli's captaincy. Gambhir also believes India have ideal replacements for the axed duo of Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane in the form of Hanuma Vihari and Shreyas Iyer.

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Both Pujara and Rahane were dropped from the Test squad for the ongoing series against Sri Lanka. Gambhir believes India can replace the senior batters with Iyer and Vihari, who have significant experience behind them in international and domestic cricket.&nbsp;

“I don’t think so. Because it won’t be a big challenge for Rohit Sharma in red-ball cricket. If you talk about Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinka Rahane, you have experienced players like Hanuma Vihari and Shreyas Iyer who can replace them. Iyer had made a bright start to Test cricket,” Gambhir said on Star Sports.

“When you have Ashwin, Jadeja, Shami, Bumrah, then it doesn’t get (difficult). Bowlers win you matches, batters only set the match up. Virat Kohli has developed India’s bowling strength, so I don’t think it should be difficult for Rohit Sharma in red-ball cricket,” he added.

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While Vihari has been a part of India's Test plans for a while now having already played 13 Tests so far in his career, Iyer made his debut in the longest format during the New Zealand series at home in November last year. Both the batters have done well in the limited opportunities they have got so far and will be eager to cement their spots in the Test side.

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Former India opener Gautam Gambhir believes it won't be too difficult for Rohit Sharma to succeed as captain for India in Tests. Rohit is leading India in his first Test series as the captain of the side, against Sri Lanka in Mohali.

Former India opener Gautam Gambhir believes it won't be too difficult for Rohit Sharma to succeed as captain for India in Tests. Rohit is leading India in his first Test series as the captain of the side, against Sri Lanka in Mohali. After a dream start to his stint as India's full-time captain in limited-overs cricket, Rohit will be hoping to get off to a winning start in Tests. While Rohit has already established his credentials as an exceptional captain in white-ball cricket, the Hitman is yet to prove his mettle as captain in the longest format. However, Gambhir believes Rohit won't find it tough to succeed in Tests given the kind of bowling strength India developed during Virat Kohli's tenure as captain of the Test team. Kohli, who stepped down as the Test captain of the Indian team in January this year, is often credited to have nurtured India's current world-class pace attack consisting of the likes of Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj and Ishan Sharma among others. Though Ishant is not part of the ongoing two-match series against Sri Lanka, he was instrumental in India's success in Tests under Kohli's captaincy. Gambhir also believes India have ideal replacements for the axed duo of Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane in the form of Hanuma Vihari and Shreyas Iyer. Also Read: Kohli adds another feather in illustrious hat during 100th Test, becomes 6th Indian to enter 8,000-run club Both Pujara and Rahane were dropped from the Test squad for the ongoing series against Sri Lanka. Gambhir believes India can replace the senior batters with Iyer and Vihari, who have significant experience behind them in international and domestic cricket. “I don’t think so. Because it won’t be a big challenge for Rohit Sharma in red-ball cricket. If you talk about Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinka Rahane, you have experienced players like Hanuma Vihari and Shreyas Iyer who can replace them. Iyer had made a bright start to Test cricket,” Gambhir said on Star Sports. “When you have Ashwin, Jadeja, Shami, Bumrah, then it doesn’t get (difficult). Bowlers win you matches, batters only set the match up. Virat Kohli has developed India’s bowling strength, so I don’t think it should be difficult for Rohit Sharma in red-ball cricket,” he added. Also Read: Rohit joins Kohli, Dhoni, Dravid to become 35th cricketer to captain Team India in Tests While Vihari has been a part of India's Test plans for a while now having already played 13 Tests so far in his career, Iyer made his debut in the longest format during the New Zealand series at home in November last year. Both the batters have done well in the limited opportunities they have got so far and will be eager to cement their spots in the Test side.

Gautam Gambhir names two batters who can replace axed duo Pujara and Rahane for India in Tests

Team India is entering a new phase in Test cricket with the commencement of the two-match home series versus Sri Lanka, which gets underway on March 04 in Mohali. While it will see the beginning of Rohit Sharma's Test captaincy era, the national side will also see a transition phase taking place after seniors such as Ajinkya Rahane, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ishant Sharma and Wriddhiman Saha got dropped prior to the series opener.

Talking about Rahane and Pujara, the duo had an ordinary run for quite some time and paid the price eventually. While the former est vice-captain Rahane didn't score a hundred since his MCG ton in late 2020, Pujara's last triple-figure knock came in early 2019. Since then, the senior pros got a long rope but couldn't do anything significant to be dropped before the SL home series.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lot-of-credit-for-indias-success-goes-to-virat-kohli-says-rohit-sharma-ahead-of-ex-captains-100th-test-458561">Lot of credit for India's success goes to Virat Kohli, says Rohit Sharma ahead of ex-captain's 100th Test</a>

Speaking ahead of the first Test in Mohali, during the press conference, captain Rohit spoke on the duo's absence and said, "Never easy to fill in big shoes of Rahane and Pujara. You can't put it in words what they have done for the team."

Revealing that both Pujara and Rahane can still make a comeback into the Test line-up, Rohit added, "Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane played big part in India becoming No.1 in Tests. It's just for now, we didn't consider them."

At present, India is at the No. 2 spot in ICC Test Rankings, behind top-ranked Pat Cummins-led Australia. However, the Indian team enjoyed considerable success in whites, topping the ICC Test rankings in the recent past, and Rohit acknowledged Pujara-Rahane's contributions to the side's success.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-100th-test-rohit-sharma-shares-his-best-memory-of-former-indian-captain-in-whites-458539">Virat Kohli 100th Test: Rohit Sharma shares his best memory of former Indian captain in whites</a>

India's Test squad for Sri Lanka series:&nbsp;Rohit Sharma (C), Mayank Agarwal, Priyank Panchal, Virat Kohli, Shreyas, Hanuma Vihari, Gill, Rishabh Pant, KS Bharat, Ashwin (subject to fitness), Ravindra Jadeja, Jayant Yadav, Kuldeep, Bumrah (VC), Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Sourabh Kumar

Team India is entering a new phase in Test cricket with the commencement of the two-match home series versus Sri Lanka, which gets underway on March 04 in Mohali.

Team India is entering a new phase in Test cricket with the commencement of the two-match home series versus Sri Lanka, which gets underway on March 04 in Mohali. While it will see the beginning of Rohit Sharma's Test captaincy era, the national side will also see a transition phase taking place after seniors such as Ajinkya Rahane, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ishant Sharma and Wriddhiman Saha got dropped prior to the series opener. Talking about Rahane and Pujara, the duo had an ordinary run for quite some time and paid the price eventually. While the former est vice-captain Rahane didn't score a hundred since his MCG ton in late 2020, Pujara's last triple-figure knock came in early 2019. Since then, the senior pros got a long rope but couldn't do anything significant to be dropped before the SL home series. ALSO READ | Lot of credit for India's success goes to Virat Kohli, says Rohit Sharma ahead of ex-captain's 100th Test Speaking ahead of the first Test in Mohali, during the press conference, captain Rohit spoke on the duo's absence and said, "Never easy to fill in big shoes of Rahane and Pujara. You can't put it in words what they have done for the team." Revealing that both Pujara and Rahane can still make a comeback into the Test line-up, Rohit added, "Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane played big part in India becoming No.1 in Tests. It's just for now, we didn't consider them." At present, India is at the No. 2 spot in ICC Test Rankings, behind top-ranked Pat Cummins-led Australia. However, the Indian team enjoyed considerable success in whites, topping the ICC Test rankings in the recent past, and Rohit acknowledged Pujara-Rahane's contributions to the side's success. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli 100th Test: Rohit Sharma shares his best memory of former Indian captain in whites India's Test squad for Sri Lanka series: Rohit Sharma (C), Mayank Agarwal, Priyank Panchal, Virat Kohli, Shreyas, Hanuma Vihari, Gill, Rishabh Pant, KS Bharat, Ashwin (subject to fitness), Ravindra Jadeja, Jayant Yadav, Kuldeep, Bumrah (VC), Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Sourabh Kumar

Rahane and Pujara played a huge part in India becoming No. 1 in Tests, says captain Rohit Sharma

Former India batting coach Sanjay Bangar believes there remain question marks over the future of Ajinkya Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara in Test cricket after the senior batters were dropped from India's Test squad for the upcoming series against Sri Lanka. Pujara and Rahane were among four senior players who were dropped from the Test squad for the two-match series.

Rahane and Pujara were dropped after enduring a rough patch in Test cricket. The duo was struggling to score runs consistently and had numerous average outings in India's last few series which resulted in both the senior batters getting dropped from the Test side.

Along with them wicket-keeper batter Wriddhiman Saha and senior fast bowler Ishant Sharma were also left out of the Test squad for the Sri Lanka series. While Bangar raised doubts over their future in Test cricket, the former India batting coach backed them to make a comeback in the longest format.

"Ajinkya Rahane, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ishant Sharma - they have served Indian cricket brilliantly for many years. There are question marks raised on their future when such experienced players are dropped or when they are not selected," Bangar said on Star Sports.

"But Ajinkya Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara are still quite young, even Ishant Sharma is quite young. So they should not lose hope, they have to go back and continue playing domestic cricket," he added.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-in-our-hands-jasprit-bumrah-reacts-to-virat-kohlis-100th-test-being-played-behind-closed-doors-457824">&nbsp;'Not in our hands': Jasprit Bumrah reacts to Virat Kohli's 100th Test being played behind closed doors</a>

Both Rahane and Pujara are currently playing for their respective state teams in the ongoing Ranji Trophy and have managed to regain some form. The senior batters have been instrumental in India's success in Tests over the last few years and will be looking to make their comeback on the back of a strong run in the domestic circuit.

Bangar also believes that the duo can be back in the reckoning for a spot in the Test side if they can maintain consistency in the domestic circuit.

"Maybe Ajinkya and Cheteshwar can think of going and playing even in county cricket because that's where they will get the opportunity to play cricket year around. Taking into account the international schedule and calendar, if there are openings at certain points in time, I am pretty sure they will try and force their way back into the Indian team," said Bangar.

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Former India batting coach Sanjay Bangar believes there remain question marks over the future of Ajinkya Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara in Test cricket after the senior batters were dropped from India's Test squad for the upcoming series against Sri Lanka.

Former India batting coach Sanjay Bangar believes there remain question marks over the future of Ajinkya Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara in Test cricket after the senior batters were dropped from India's Test squad for the upcoming series against Sri Lanka. Pujara and Rahane were among four senior players who were dropped from the Test squad for the two-match series. Rahane and Pujara were dropped after enduring a rough patch in Test cricket. The duo was struggling to score runs consistently and had numerous average outings in India's last few series which resulted in both the senior batters getting dropped from the Test side. Along with them wicket-keeper batter Wriddhiman Saha and senior fast bowler Ishant Sharma were also left out of the Test squad for the Sri Lanka series. While Bangar raised doubts over their future in Test cricket, the former India batting coach backed them to make a comeback in the longest format. "Ajinkya Rahane, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ishant Sharma - they have served Indian cricket brilliantly for many years. There are question marks raised on their future when such experienced players are dropped or when they are not selected," Bangar said on Star Sports. "But Ajinkya Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara are still quite young, even Ishant Sharma is quite young. So they should not lose hope, they have to go back and continue playing domestic cricket," he added. Also Read: 'Not in our hands': Jasprit Bumrah reacts to Virat Kohli's 100th Test being played behind closed doors Both Rahane and Pujara are currently playing for their respective state teams in the ongoing Ranji Trophy and have managed to regain some form. The senior batters have been instrumental in India's success in Tests over the last few years and will be looking to make their comeback on the back of a strong run in the domestic circuit. Bangar also believes that the duo can be back in the reckoning for a spot in the Test side if they can maintain consistency in the domestic circuit. "Maybe Ajinkya and Cheteshwar can think of going and playing even in county cricket because that's where they will get the opportunity to play cricket year around. Taking into account the international schedule and calendar, if there are openings at certain points in time, I am pretty sure they will try and force their way back into the Indian team," said Bangar.

Question marks over their future: Ex-India batting coach on Pujara, Rahane being dropped from Test team

Mohammed Shami is gearing up to represent India in the forthcoming two-match Test series versus Sri Lanka at home. While he remains an integral part of Team India across formats, he plays Tests more regularly than the white-ball formats and has accounted for 209 scalps in 57 matches in whites.

Ahead of India's red-ball assignment versus the Dimuth Karunaratne-led Islanders, Shami revealed the Indian batter who loves batting at the nets. Shami named Cheteshwar Pujara in this regard, who according to the pacer irritates the bowlers by making them bowl at least 100-200 deliveries.

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“We are professionals, it’s never a case of likes. The BCCI pays us so well to do what we like, so one enjoys bowling (laughs). But no one can irritate you like Cheteshwar Pujara. As everyone knows, unless he hits 100 to 200 balls, he doesn’t get sleep,”&nbsp;Shami told when he turned up as&nbsp;a guest at&nbsp;The Indian Express' Idea Exchange.

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Currently, Pujara is representing the Saurashtra side in the ongoing Ranji Trophy 2021/22 edition after being dropped from the Test line-up. The right-hander's century-drought continues in the purest format since early 2019 and paid the price for being overlooked for the SL home series.

India's squad for the SL series:

Rohit Sharma (C), Mayank Agarwal, Priyank Panchal, Virat Kohli, Shreyas, Hanuma Vihari, Gill, Rishabh Pant, KS Bharat, Ashwin (subject to fitness), Ravindra Jadeja, Jayant Yadav, Kuldeep, Bumrah (VC), Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Sourabh Kumar

Mohammed Shami is gearing up to represent India in the forthcoming two-match Test series versus Sri Lanka at home. While he remains an integral part of Team India across formats, he plays Tests more regularly than the white-ball formats and has accounted for 209 scalps in 57 matches in whites.

Mohammed Shami is gearing up to represent India in the forthcoming two-match Test series versus Sri Lanka at home. While he remains an integral part of Team India across formats, he plays Tests more regularly than the white-ball formats and has accounted for 209 scalps in 57 matches in whites. Ahead of India's red-ball assignment versus the Dimuth Karunaratne-led Islanders, Shami revealed the Indian batter who loves batting at the nets. Shami named Cheteshwar Pujara in this regard, who according to the pacer irritates the bowlers by making them bowl at least 100-200 deliveries. ALSO READ | Tactics will be different, approach will be different: Sunil Gavaskar on Rohit Sharma's Test captaincy debut “We are professionals, it’s never a case of likes. The BCCI pays us so well to do what we like, so one enjoys bowling (laughs). But no one can irritate you like Cheteshwar Pujara. As everyone knows, unless he hits 100 to 200 balls, he doesn’t get sleep,” Shami told when he turned up as a guest at The Indian Express' Idea Exchange. ALSO READ | Hope Virat Kohli celebrates his 100th Test milestone with a century against Sri Lanka: Sunil Gavaskar Currently, Pujara is representing the Saurashtra side in the ongoing Ranji Trophy 2021/22 edition after being dropped from the Test line-up. The right-hander's century-drought continues in the purest format since early 2019 and paid the price for being overlooked for the SL home series. India's squad for the SL series: Rohit Sharma (C), Mayank Agarwal, Priyank Panchal, Virat Kohli, Shreyas, Hanuma Vihari, Gill, Rishabh Pant, KS Bharat, Ashwin (subject to fitness), Ravindra Jadeja, Jayant Yadav, Kuldeep, Bumrah (VC), Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Sourabh Kumar

'Unless he hits 100 to 200 balls, he doesn’t...' - Md Shami names India player who loves batting at the nets

After the three T20Is, India is set to lock horns with Sri Lanka in the forthcoming two-match Test series, which gets underway on March 04. Before the commencement of the Test series, ex-Indian selector&nbsp;Devang Gandhi feels Indian cricket fans will see more of Hanuma Vihari in the playing XI with no Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane.

Ahead of the series, the national selectors had dropped senior pros Pujara and Rahane along with Ishant Sharma and Wriddhiman Saha. With room in the middle and lower order, Gandhi feels Vihari 'deserves a fair run'. Gandhi also shared his batting order, which doesn't comprise in-form Shreyas Iyer.

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"Firstly, Vihari has played only one Test at home and he, above everyone, else deserves a fair run. Secondly, if you see for India and India A, he has batted at No.5 abroad but in India, he can come in at No.6 when spinners will be in operation and the 'SG Test' ball becomes relatively old." He asserted, "Vihari has a fantastic record against spinners in Ranji Trophy and that's something the team management can exploit."

“If you see our top-order, Mayank, Rohit, Shubman and Virat are all right-handers. It's better if at No.5 we have a left-hander to get the left-right combination going followed by Vihari at No.6 and Ravindra Jadeja, again a left-hander at No.7. It could be the way forward," added Gandhi.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-wondered-how-someone-could-md-shami-shares-his-first-reaction-on-seeing-pacer-jasprit-bumrah-457450">'I wondered how someone could...': Md Shami shares his first reaction on seeing pacer Jasprit Bumrah</a>

In his brief Test career, playing 13 games so far, Vihari has done reasonably well by playing some important and valuable knocks with the willow. He has also chipped in with few handy wickets and his off-spin might be a key factor in the Rohit Sharma-led Team India preferring him in the playing XI.

However, it will be very difficult for the team management to look beyond Iyer, who was the Player-of-the-Series in the SL T20Is and second highest-run getter in the India-NZ Tests last year (his maiden series in whites).

The first Test will be held behind closed doors in Mohali whereas Bengaluru will host the second and final Test with a 50% crowd capacity.

After the three T20Is, India is set to lock horns with Sri Lanka in the forthcoming two-match Test series, which gets underway on March 04. Before the commencement of the Test series, ex-Indian selector Devang Gandhi feels Indian cricket fans will see more of Hanuma Vihari in the playing XI with no Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane.

After the three T20Is, India is set to lock horns with Sri Lanka in the forthcoming two-match Test series, which gets underway on March 04. Before the commencement of the Test series, ex-Indian selector Devang Gandhi feels Indian cricket fans will see more of Hanuma Vihari in the playing XI with no Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane. Ahead of the series, the national selectors had dropped senior pros Pujara and Rahane along with Ishant Sharma and Wriddhiman Saha. With room in the middle and lower order, Gandhi feels Vihari 'deserves a fair run'. Gandhi also shared his batting order, which doesn't comprise in-form Shreyas Iyer. ALSO READ | Captaincy an added responsibility, Rohit Sharma should not lose focus on his batting: Ex-India selector "Firstly, Vihari has played only one Test at home and he, above everyone, else deserves a fair run. Secondly, if you see for India and India A, he has batted at No.5 abroad but in India, he can come in at No.6 when spinners will be in operation and the 'SG Test' ball becomes relatively old." He asserted, "Vihari has a fantastic record against spinners in Ranji Trophy and that's something the team management can exploit." “If you see our top-order, Mayank, Rohit, Shubman and Virat are all right-handers. It's better if at No.5 we have a left-hander to get the left-right combination going followed by Vihari at No.6 and Ravindra Jadeja, again a left-hander at No.7. It could be the way forward," added Gandhi. ALSO READ | 'I wondered how someone could...': Md Shami shares his first reaction on seeing pacer Jasprit Bumrah In his brief Test career, playing 13 games so far, Vihari has done reasonably well by playing some important and valuable knocks with the willow. He has also chipped in with few handy wickets and his off-spin might be a key factor in the Rohit Sharma-led Team India preferring him in the playing XI. However, it will be very difficult for the team management to look beyond Iyer, who was the Player-of-the-Series in the SL T20Is and second highest-run getter in the India-NZ Tests last year (his maiden series in whites). The first Test will be held behind closed doors in Mohali whereas Bengaluru will host the second and final Test with a 50% crowd capacity.

Ex-Indian selector explains why Hanuma Vihari deserves a fair run in Tests after Pujara, Rahane snub

Team India will start a new era in Tests when they host Sri Lanka in a two-match series, starting on March 04 in Mohali. The forthcoming Tests will see the start of Rohit Sharma's captaincy in whites whereas a lot of youngsters will have the onus with four experienced campaigners dropped.

Recently, the&nbsp;Chetan Sharma-led selection committee dropped as many as four senior players, such as Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Ishant Sharma and wicketkeeper-batter Wriddhiman Saha. With no Pujara, Hanuma Vihari, Shubman Gill or Shreyas Iyer are expected to take the No. 3 slot. However, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar feels former captain Virat Kohli should take over the important slot.

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“Ideally, Kohli should go at No.3. Because the best batsman you see...Ricky Ponting goes at 3. Joe Root bats at No.4, but I feel he will be batting at No.3 in West Indies. So the best batsman of the team is batting at No.3. He is capable of tackling the new ball in case there is an early wicket and he has also got the ability to up the tempo of the team has got off to a good start. So Kohli at three would be ideal," said Gavaskar on&nbsp;India Today.

If not Kohli, the cricketer-turned-commentator recommended Vihari's name for No. 3. "Otherwise, you can look at Hanuma Vihari, who has done well in South Africa and showed a lot of courage,” added Gavaskar.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sl-2nd-t20i-weather-report-will-rain-play-spoilsport-in-second-and-penultimate-tie-in-dharamshala-456685">Ind vs SL, 2nd T20I weather report: Will rain play spoilsport in second and penultimate tie in Dharamshala?</a>

India are currently involved in the three T20Is versus the Islanders. It will be followed by two Tests versus the Asian neighbours, which will get underway on March 04 in Mohali. India's squad for the SL Tests is as follows:

India's Test squad for Sri Lanka series:&nbsp;Rohit Sharma (C), Mayank Agarwal, Priyank Panchal, Virat Kohli, Shreyas, Hanuma Vihari, Gill, Rishabh Pant, KS Bharat, Ashwin (subject to fitness), Ravindra Jadeja, Jayant Yadav, Kuldeep, Bumrah (VC), Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Sourabh Kumar

Team India will start a new era in Tests when they host Sri Lanka in a two-match series, starting on March 04 in Mohali. The forthcoming Tests will see the start of Rohit Sharma's captaincy in whites whereas a lot of youngsters will have the onus with four experienced campaigners dropped.

Team India will start a new era in Tests when they host Sri Lanka in a two-match series, starting on March 04 in Mohali. The forthcoming Tests will see the start of Rohit Sharma's captaincy in whites whereas a lot of youngsters will have the onus with four experienced campaigners dropped. Recently, the Chetan Sharma-led selection committee dropped as many as four senior players, such as Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Ishant Sharma and wicketkeeper-batter Wriddhiman Saha. With no Pujara, Hanuma Vihari, Shubman Gill or Shreyas Iyer are expected to take the No. 3 slot. However, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar feels former captain Virat Kohli should take over the important slot. ALSO READ | Ind vs SL, 2nd T20I: Rohit Sharma on the cusp of achieving major milestones in Dharamshala “Ideally, Kohli should go at No.3. Because the best batsman you see...Ricky Ponting goes at 3. Joe Root bats at No.4, but I feel he will be batting at No.3 in West Indies. So the best batsman of the team is batting at No.3. He is capable of tackling the new ball in case there is an early wicket and he has also got the ability to up the tempo of the team has got off to a good start. So Kohli at three would be ideal," said Gavaskar on India Today. If not Kohli, the cricketer-turned-commentator recommended Vihari's name for No. 3. "Otherwise, you can look at Hanuma Vihari, who has done well in South Africa and showed a lot of courage,” added Gavaskar. ALSO READ | Ind vs SL, 2nd T20I weather report: Will rain play spoilsport in second and penultimate tie in Dharamshala? India are currently involved in the three T20Is versus the Islanders. It will be followed by two Tests versus the Asian neighbours, which will get underway on March 04 in Mohali. India's squad for the SL Tests is as follows: India's Test squad for Sri Lanka series: Rohit Sharma (C), Mayank Agarwal, Priyank Panchal, Virat Kohli, Shreyas, Hanuma Vihari, Gill, Rishabh Pant, KS Bharat, Ashwin (subject to fitness), Ravindra Jadeja, Jayant Yadav, Kuldeep, Bumrah (VC), Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Sourabh Kumar

Best batsman bats there: With no Pujara, Gavaskar wants star Indian player to take No. 3 spot in Tests

Senior batters Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane have both been dropped from India's Test squad for the upcoming series against Sri Lanka at home. The Chetan Sharma-led selection panel dropped as many as four senior players from the Test squad which was announced on Saturday.&nbsp;

Both Pujara and Rahane were struggling with their respective forms in the longest format and had been suffering from a lean patch with the willow for a while now. The duo failed to turn a corner in India's Test series against South Africa earlier this year and their disappointing show on the tour has resulted in their axing from the squad.

After their exclusion from the Test squad, former India cricketer Ajay Jadeja has made a bold claim on the future of the two senior Indian batters. Jadeja believes their exclusion from the squad means all ut end of their respective Test careers. Jadeja said he doesn't see both Rahane and Pujara making a comeback in the Test team but will like to be proved wrong.

“Both are single-format players, and when you leave them out of that one format, I don’t see them coming back. I hope I am wrong because these are stalwarts. They have played 80-90 Test matches. There is enough talent that is around. The next generation that has come has pushed them," Jadeja said on Cricbuzz.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-to-investigate-journalists-threat-messages-to-wriddhiman-saha-will-take-action-against-guilty-report-454987">BCCI to investigate journalist's threat messages to&nbsp;Saha, will take action against guilty - Report</a>

While he insisted Pujara and Rahane are unlikely to make a comeback in the Test team, Jadeja said the duo has been made a scapegoat after India's 2-1 series loss in South Africa. The former India cricketer said it is unfair for the selectors to drop the do after one series loss and that the two senior batters have been singled out after the defeat.

“It is sad. If it was done a year and a half ago, when India were still at the top and winning, I would have backed that decision. Dropping Rahane and Pujara after losing one series is unfair. Then you are singling out these two, and that’s not the way to build sides," said Jadeja.

Senior batters Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane have both been dropped from India's Test squad for the upcoming series against Sri Lanka at home. The Chetan Sharma-led selection panel dropped as many as four senior players from the Test squad which was announced on Saturday.

Senior batters Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane have both been dropped from India's Test squad for the upcoming series against Sri Lanka at home. The Chetan Sharma-led selection panel dropped as many as four senior players from the Test squad which was announced on Saturday. Both Pujara and Rahane were struggling with their respective forms in the longest format and had been suffering from a lean patch with the willow for a while now. The duo failed to turn a corner in India's Test series against South Africa earlier this year and their disappointing show on the tour has resulted in their axing from the squad. After their exclusion from the Test squad, former India cricketer Ajay Jadeja has made a bold claim on the future of the two senior Indian batters. Jadeja believes their exclusion from the squad means all ut end of their respective Test careers. Jadeja said he doesn't see both Rahane and Pujara making a comeback in the Test team but will like to be proved wrong. “Both are single-format players, and when you leave them out of that one format, I don’t see them coming back. I hope I am wrong because these are stalwarts. They have played 80-90 Test matches. There is enough talent that is around. The next generation that has come has pushed them," Jadeja said on Cricbuzz. Also Read: BCCI to investigate journalist's threat messages to Saha, will take action against guilty - Report While he insisted Pujara and Rahane are unlikely to make a comeback in the Test team, Jadeja said the duo has been made a scapegoat after India's 2-1 series loss in South Africa. The former India cricketer said it is unfair for the selectors to drop the do after one series loss and that the two senior batters have been singled out after the defeat. “It is sad. If it was done a year and a half ago, when India were still at the top and winning, I would have backed that decision. Dropping Rahane and Pujara after losing one series is unfair. Then you are singling out these two, and that’s not the way to build sides," said Jadeja.

'Don't see them coming back': Ajay Jadeja makes bold claim on Pujara, Rahane's future in Test cricket

India batter Cheteshwar Pujara on Sunday scored 91 off 83 balls in the ongoing Ranji Trophy match against Mumbai on Day four of the game.

The Saurashtra batter had scored a duck on Saturday in the first innings as the side got folded for 220.

Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane were on Saturday also dropped from were dropped from the Test squad for the Sri Lanka series.

However, Pujara returned to form as he scored 91 off 83 balls on Sunday. His innings was studded with 16 fours and one six.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chetan-sharma-names-3-potential-captaincy-candidates-for-india-who-will-be-groomed-under-rohit-sharma-454782">Chetan Sharma names 3 potential captaincy candidates for India who will be groomed under Rohit Sharma</a>

Rahane too had returned to form earlier this week as he scored a ton against Saurashtra before Mumbai posted 544/7 in the first innings.

Meanwhile, Chetan Sharma, Chairman of, All India Senior-Selection Committee on Saturday said that batters Rahane and Pujara were informed in advance about them being dropped for two Test matches against Sri Lanka.

"The selection committee deliberated a lot on Rahane and Pujara. We told them we will not consider them against Sri Lanka but doors are open for them. We have told them to go and play Ranji Trophy," said Chetan Sharma during a virtual press conference.

"They have served the country for so long. They can come back, why not? It's like a graph...Rahane hit a hundred yesterday against Saurashtra in the Ranji Trophy. This is a process of managing...Who wouldn't be happy if they come back?" he added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virender-sehwag-reacts-as-wriddhiman-saha-shares-screenshots-of-disturbing-messages-from-a-journalist-454752">Virender Sehwag reacts as Wriddhiman Saha shares screenshots of disturbing messages from a 'journalist'</a>

Coming back to Ranji Trophy, the tournament is being held in two phases and now it has been confirmed that the pre-Indian Premier League (IPL) phase would run from February 10 to March 15.

The post-IPL-phase would run from May 30 to June 26. The Ranji Trophy this season would see 64 matches being played across 62 days.

India batter Cheteshwar Pujara on Sunday scored 91 off 83 balls in the ongoing Ranji Trophy match against Mumbai on Day four of the game. The Saurashtra batter had scored a duck on Saturday in the first innings as the side got folded for 220.

India batter Cheteshwar Pujara on Sunday scored 91 off 83 balls in the ongoing Ranji Trophy match against Mumbai on Day four of the game. The Saurashtra batter had scored a duck on Saturday in the first innings as the side got folded for 220. Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane were on Saturday also dropped from were dropped from the Test squad for the Sri Lanka series. However, Pujara returned to form as he scored 91 off 83 balls on Sunday. His innings was studded with 16 fours and one six. ALSO READ: Chetan Sharma names 3 potential captaincy candidates for India who will be groomed under Rohit Sharma Rahane too had returned to form earlier this week as he scored a ton against Saurashtra before Mumbai posted 544/7 in the first innings. Meanwhile, Chetan Sharma, Chairman of, All India Senior-Selection Committee on Saturday said that batters Rahane and Pujara were informed in advance about them being dropped for two Test matches against Sri Lanka. "The selection committee deliberated a lot on Rahane and Pujara. We told them we will not consider them against Sri Lanka but doors are open for them. We have told them to go and play Ranji Trophy," said Chetan Sharma during a virtual press conference. "They have served the country for so long. They can come back, why not? It's like a graph...Rahane hit a hundred yesterday against Saurashtra in the Ranji Trophy. This is a process of managing...Who wouldn't be happy if they come back?" he added. ALSO READ: Virender Sehwag reacts as Wriddhiman Saha shares screenshots of disturbing messages from a 'journalist' Coming back to Ranji Trophy, the tournament is being held in two phases and now it has been confirmed that the pre-Indian Premier League (IPL) phase would run from February 10 to March 15. The post-IPL-phase would run from May 30 to June 26. The Ranji Trophy this season would see 64 matches being played across 62 days.

Day after being dropped from Test squad, Cheteshwar Pujara scores 91 against Mumbai in Ranji Trophy

The Chetan Sharma-led selection panel on Saturday (February 19) announced India's Test and T20I squads for the upcoming home series against Sri Lanka. India will play three T20Is followed by a two-match Test series against Sri Lanka at home starting from February 24. While there weren't any surprises in the T20I squad, a number of senior players were dropped from the Test team.

Besides appointing Rohit Sharma as India's permanent skipper in Tests, the national selectors made a bold call by dropping the Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Ishant Sharma and Wriddhiman Saha from the squad. While Pujara and Rahane's poor form had been under the scanner for a while now, Ishant and Saha have had to deal with a lot of fitness issues and have been replaced by youngsters in the side.

Explaining the reason behind dropping Rahane and Pujara, who once used to be integral members of the Indian Test team, Chetan Sharma, the chairman of the selection panel said it was a decision taken after a lot of deliberation. Sharma said the selectors want to give chances to other players while Pujara and Rahane have been asked to perform in the ongoing Ranji Trophy.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-announces-india-squad-for-sl-t20is-kohli-pant-rested-bumrah-named-rohits-deputy-jadeja-returns-454589">BCCI announces India squad for SL T20Is: Kohli, Pant rested; Bumrah named Rohit's deputy, Jadeja returns</a>

"We have deliberated a lot on them. We decided not to consider them for the SL series. We asked them to play Ranji. For these two matches, we decided to give chance to others. They can still make a comeback. Ajinkya got a hundred in the Ranji match. It is a bad phase. It is very important for the selectors to manage them," Sharma said.

While many are expecting this to be the final nail in the coffin for all four senior players as far as their Test careers are concerned, Sharma revealed they can still make a comeback in the side on the basis of their performances in the Ranji Trophy.

"We have informed them that Ishant and Wriddhi will not be considered for the two-match Test series against SL. But the door is not closed to them. We have requested all four to play the Ranji Trophy," said Sharma.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-named-test-captain-as-bcci-announces-squad-for-sri-lanka-series-pujara-rahane-dropped-454583">Rohit named Test captain as BCCI announces squad for Sri Lanka series; Pujara, Rahane dropped</a>

Rahane, Pujara and Ishant are all playing for their respective state teams in the Ranji Trophy while Saha has been dropped from the Bengal team. Rahane recently impressed on his return to domestic cricket as he slammed a century for Mumbai in their Ranji Trophy clash against Saurashtra earlier this week.

It was Rahane's first hundred after 417 days as his last ton came against Australia in the Melbourne Test in 2020. Rahane will be hopeful of regaining his form in the domestic tournament and reclaim his spot in the Indian Test team.

&nbsp;

The Chetan Sharma-led selection panel on Saturday (February 19) announced India's Test and T20I squads for the upcoming home series against Sri Lanka. India will play three T20Is followed by a two-match Test series against Sri Lanka at home starting from February 24.

The Chetan Sharma-led selection panel on Saturday (February 19) announced India's Test and T20I squads for the upcoming home series against Sri Lanka. India will play three T20Is followed by a two-match Test series against Sri Lanka at home starting from February 24. While there weren't any surprises in the T20I squad, a number of senior players were dropped from the Test team. Besides appointing Rohit Sharma as India's permanent skipper in Tests, the national selectors made a bold call by dropping the Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Ishant Sharma and Wriddhiman Saha from the squad. While Pujara and Rahane's poor form had been under the scanner for a while now, Ishant and Saha have had to deal with a lot of fitness issues and have been replaced by youngsters in the side. Explaining the reason behind dropping Rahane and Pujara, who once used to be integral members of the Indian Test team, Chetan Sharma, the chairman of the selection panel said it was a decision taken after a lot of deliberation. Sharma said the selectors want to give chances to other players while Pujara and Rahane have been asked to perform in the ongoing Ranji Trophy. Also Read: BCCI announces India squad for SL T20Is: Kohli, Pant rested; Bumrah named Rohit's deputy, Jadeja returns "We have deliberated a lot on them. We decided not to consider them for the SL series. We asked them to play Ranji. For these two matches, we decided to give chance to others. They can still make a comeback. Ajinkya got a hundred in the Ranji match. It is a bad phase. It is very important for the selectors to manage them," Sharma said. While many are expecting this to be the final nail in the coffin for all four senior players as far as their Test careers are concerned, Sharma revealed they can still make a comeback in the side on the basis of their performances in the Ranji Trophy. "We have informed them that Ishant and Wriddhi will not be considered for the two-match Test series against SL. But the door is not closed to them. We have requested all four to play the Ranji Trophy," said Sharma. Also Read: Rohit named Test captain as BCCI announces squad for Sri Lanka series; Pujara, Rahane dropped Rahane, Pujara and Ishant are all playing for their respective state teams in the Ranji Trophy while Saha has been dropped from the Bengal team. Rahane recently impressed on his return to domestic cricket as he slammed a century for Mumbai in their Ranji Trophy clash against Saurashtra earlier this week. It was Rahane's first hundred after 417 days as his last ton came against Australia in the Melbourne Test in 2020. Rahane will be hopeful of regaining his form in the domestic tournament and reclaim his spot in the Indian Test team.

Chief selector Chetan Sharma explains reason behind dropping Pujara, Rahane from India's Test squad

Rohit Sharma has been appointed as the new captain of the Indian Test team ahead of the start of the upcoming series against Sri Lanka at home. Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Saturday (February 19) announced India's squad for the two-match Test series against Sri Lanka. The Chetan Sharma-led national selection panel has decided to hand over the captaincy to Rohit, making him India's captain across all formats of the game.

Virat Kohli had quit as India's Test captain earlier this year post the team's 2-1 loss in the Test series against South Africa. The captaincy spot had since been vacant. However, Rohit will now take charge in the whites as well after being appointed as India's limited-overs captain last year.

Besides confirming Rohit's appointment as Test captain, the selectors have taken some big calls by dropping the likes of Ajinkya Rahane, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ishant Sharma and Wriddhiman Saha from the Test team. The four senior players have been replaced by youngsters in the squad.

Rahane and Pujara's form was under the scanner for quite a while now and the duo's failure to bounce back from their lean patch has resulted in their ouster from the Test team. Ishant has also failed to attain consistency with the ball and his recent fitness issues have seen Mohammed Siraj move up in the pecking order.

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Star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja will be making his comeback from injury against Sri Lanka. He is also part of the T20I squad for the three-match series against the visitors. Former skipper Kohli, who will miss the T20Is, will be back for the Test series.

While senior spinner R Ashwin's selection is subject to fitness, left-arm all-rounder Sourabh Kumar has received his maiden Test call up for the Sri Lanka series. Kumar, who represents Uttar Pradesh in the domestic circuit is a left-arm spin all-rounder. In Ashwin's absence, Jadeja will spearhead India's spin attack along with Jayant Yadav.

Jasprit Bumrah named India's&nbsp;vice-captain in Tests:

The selectors have taken another major call by naming Jasprit Bumrah as India's vice-captain in the absence of KL Rahul. The premier pacer was being touted as one of the contenders to replace Kohli as Test captain. However, he will act as Rohit's deputy in the Sri Lanka Test series for now.

India's Test squad for Sri Lanka series: Rohit Sharma (C), Mayank Agarwal, Priyank Panchal, Virat Kohli, Shreyas, Hanuma Vihari, Gill, Rishabh Pant, KS Bharat, Ashwin (subject to fitness), Ravindra Jadeja, Jayant Yadav, Kuldeep, Bumrah (VC), Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Sourabh Kumar

&nbsp;

Rohit Sharma has been appointed as the new captain of the Indian Test team ahead of the start of the upcoming series against Sri Lanka at home. Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Saturday (February 19) announced India's squad for the two-match Test series against Sri Lanka.

Rohit Sharma has been appointed as the new captain of the Indian Test team ahead of the start of the upcoming series against Sri Lanka at home. Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Saturday (February 19) announced India's squad for the two-match Test series against Sri Lanka. The Chetan Sharma-led national selection panel has decided to hand over the captaincy to Rohit, making him India's captain across all formats of the game. Virat Kohli had quit as India's Test captain earlier this year post the team's 2-1 loss in the Test series against South Africa. The captaincy spot had since been vacant. However, Rohit will now take charge in the whites as well after being appointed as India's limited-overs captain last year. Besides confirming Rohit's appointment as Test captain, the selectors have taken some big calls by dropping the likes of Ajinkya Rahane, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ishant Sharma and Wriddhiman Saha from the Test team. The four senior players have been replaced by youngsters in the squad. Rahane and Pujara's form was under the scanner for quite a while now and the duo's failure to bounce back from their lean patch has resulted in their ouster from the Test team. Ishant has also failed to attain consistency with the ball and his recent fitness issues have seen Mohammed Siraj move up in the pecking order. Also Read: BCCI unlikely to take action against CSK's Rajvardhan Hangargekar despite age fraud allegations - Report Star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja will be making his comeback from injury against Sri Lanka. He is also part of the T20I squad for the three-match series against the visitors. Former skipper Kohli, who will miss the T20Is, will be back for the Test series. While senior spinner R Ashwin's selection is subject to fitness, left-arm all-rounder Sourabh Kumar has received his maiden Test call up for the Sri Lanka series. Kumar, who represents Uttar Pradesh in the domestic circuit is a left-arm spin all-rounder. In Ashwin's absence, Jadeja will spearhead India's spin attack along with Jayant Yadav. Jasprit Bumrah named India's vice-captain in Tests: The selectors have taken another major call by naming Jasprit Bumrah as India's vice-captain in the absence of KL Rahul. The premier pacer was being touted as one of the contenders to replace Kohli as Test captain. However, he will act as Rohit's deputy in the Sri Lanka Test series for now. India's Test squad for Sri Lanka series: Rohit Sharma (C), Mayank Agarwal, Priyank Panchal, Virat Kohli, Shreyas, Hanuma Vihari, Gill, Rishabh Pant, KS Bharat, Ashwin (subject to fitness), Ravindra Jadeja, Jayant Yadav, Kuldeep, Bumrah (VC), Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Sourabh Kumar

Rohit Sharma named Test captain as BCCI announces squad for Sri Lanka series; Pujara, Rahane dropped

The opening round of Ranji Trophy matches will begin from February 17 following a five-day quarantine and the squad size, including support staff, has been capped at 30 as the BCCI aims to stage the 38-team event across nine different bio-bubbles amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

The BCCI had earlier announced that the Ranji Trophy, to be held after two years due to the pandemic, will take place in two phases, before and after the IPL.

On Tuesday, the board issued "staging guidelines" to the nine host associations.

The five-page document, which is in PTI's possession, states that each squad can have a maximum of 30 members, including a minimum of 20 players, with the number of support staff capped at 10.

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"20 players will be eligible for match fees (Playing XI will be eligible for 100 per cent while the remaining 9 will be entitled to 50 per cent)," the guidelines state, adding that two COVID reserves will be allowed per team.

The opening round clash between defending champions Saurashtra and Mumbai in Ahmedabad will be a much anticipated one with Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane having been named in their respective teams.

Pujara on Tuesday made the Saurashtra squad while Rahane was named in the Mumbai team.

Both the seasoned batters are in dire need of big runs and a Ranji Trophy hundred could well help them get their Test careers back on track.

All the teams will assemble in their respective venues on February 10, following which the players will go into a mandatory five-day quarantine.

RT-PCR tests will be conducted on day two and day five, leaving teams two days for practice on February 15 and 16.

The pre-quarterfinal, to be played in the first phase, will be a five-day affair from March 11. The teams who will take part in the sole round-of-16 clash will have to undergo a four-day quarantine.

The second phase of the Ranji Trophy, comprising quarterfinals, semifinals and final, will be held from May 30 as announced earlier.

According to the guidelines, each team "is encouraged to have a physician to deal with COVID-19 related issues".

The BCCI has increased the hosting fees to Rs 1.25 lakh per match day. Earlier, it used to be Rs five lakh for the entire game.

Thirty-two teams have been divided into eight elite groups of four, while six teams form the plate division.

The pre-quarterfinal will take place between the lowest-ranked qualified team from eight Elite Groups and plate group topper. Fifty-seven games will be played in the first phase and seven in the second.

The venues are Rajkot, Cuttack, Ahmedabad, Chennai, Thiruvananthapuram, Delhi, Haryana, Guwahati and Kolkata.

ALSO READ:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ranji-trophy-to-be-played-in-two-phases-from-february-10-to-june-26-450246">&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ranji-trophy-to-be-played-in-two-phases-from-february-10-to-june-26-450246">Ranji Trophy to be played in two phases from February 10 to June 26</a>

The opening round of Ranji Trophy matches will begin from February 17 following a five-day quarantine and the squad size, including support staff, has been capped at 30 as the BCCI aims to stage the 38-team event across nine different bio-bubbles amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

The opening round of Ranji Trophy matches will begin from February 17 following a five-day quarantine and the squad size, including support staff, has been capped at 30 as the BCCI aims to stage the 38-team event across nine different bio-bubbles amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The BCCI had earlier announced that the Ranji Trophy, to be held after two years due to the pandemic, will take place in two phases, before and after the IPL. On Tuesday, the board issued "staging guidelines" to the nine host associations. The five-page document, which is in PTI's possession, states that each squad can have a maximum of 30 members, including a minimum of 20 players, with the number of support staff capped at 10. ALSO READ: Ranji Trophy league phase to take place from February 16 to March 5 "20 players will be eligible for match fees (Playing XI will be eligible for 100 per cent while the remaining 9 will be entitled to 50 per cent)," the guidelines state, adding that two COVID reserves will be allowed per team. The opening round clash between defending champions Saurashtra and Mumbai in Ahmedabad will be a much anticipated one with Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane having been named in their respective teams. Pujara on Tuesday made the Saurashtra squad while Rahane was named in the Mumbai team. Both the seasoned batters are in dire need of big runs and a Ranji Trophy hundred could well help them get their Test careers back on track. All the teams will assemble in their respective venues on February 10, following which the players will go into a mandatory five-day quarantine. RT-PCR tests will be conducted on day two and day five, leaving teams two days for practice on February 15 and 16. The pre-quarterfinal, to be played in the first phase, will be a five-day affair from March 11. The teams who will take part in the sole round-of-16 clash will have to undergo a four-day quarantine. The second phase of the Ranji Trophy, comprising quarterfinals, semifinals and final, will be held from May 30 as announced earlier. According to the guidelines, each team "is encouraged to have a physician to deal with COVID-19 related issues". The BCCI has increased the hosting fees to Rs 1.25 lakh per match day. Earlier, it used to be Rs five lakh for the entire game. Thirty-two teams have been divided into eight elite groups of four, while six teams form the plate division. The pre-quarterfinal will take place between the lowest-ranked qualified team from eight Elite Groups and plate group topper. Fifty-seven games will be played in the first phase and seven in the second. The venues are Rajkot, Cuttack, Ahmedabad, Chennai, Thiruvananthapuram, Delhi, Haryana, Guwahati and Kolkata. ALSO READ: Ranji Trophy to be played in two phases from February 10 to June 26

Ranji Trophy: Five-day quarantine, squad size capped at 30, Cheteshwar Pujara vs Ajinkya Rahane in Ahmedabad

Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane are having a tough ride in international cricket for quite sometime. Before the South Africa Tests, in the rainbow nation early this year, Rahane-Pujara were already under the scanner for their dismal runs in the longest format of the game.

For Rahane, the senior pro had not scored a hundred since his flawless 112-run knock in the India-Australia MCG Test in late 2020. On the other hand, Pujara's century drought continues since early 2019. While Pujara has remained a vital cog with some half-centuries at regular intervals, much more is expected of him. Meanwhile, Rahane also lost his vice-captaincy position in whites owing to his dismal run with the bat.

The two senior batters had a chance to revamp in the India-SA Tests, however, both didn't have a great run in the three-match series. Both returned with a half-century each in six outings. For the unversed, Rahane returned with&nbsp;136 runs at 22.66 in the SA Tests whereas the No. 3 batter Pujara ended with&nbsp;124 runs at 20.66. Thus,&nbsp;calls for their omissions have intensified.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-maharashtra-to-host-league-stage-call-on-playoffs-venues-not-taken-says-sourav-ganguly-450052">IPL 2022: Maharashtra to host league stage, call on playoffs' venues not taken, says Sourav Ganguly</a>

In this regard, BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly has shared some advice for the under-fire pair. He told Sportstar,&nbsp;"Yeah, they are very good players. Hopefully, they will go back to Ranji Trophy and score a lot of runs, which I am sure they will. I don’t see any problem [for them to go back to domestic cricket after playing so much international cricket]. Ranji Trophy is a huge tournament, and we have all played the tournament."

"So, they, too, will go back there and perform. They have played the tournament in the past when they were only playing Test cricket and were not part of the ODI or limited-overs team. So, that won’t be a problem," he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-opens-up-on-cheteshwar-pujara-ajinkya-rahanes-future-after-flop-show-in-sa-test-series-444795">Virat Kohli opens up on Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane's future after flop show in SA Test series</a>

India's next Test assignment will be a two-match series versus Dimuth Karunaratne-led Sri Lanka, at home, in February-March. It will be interesting to see if Rahane and Pujara hold onto their respective spots -- despite intense competition with the presence of Shreyas Iyer, Hanuma Vihari, etc. -- or not.&nbsp;

The BCCI selectors will also have to name Virat Kohli's successor in Tests after he resigned as the red-ball captain following the SA Tests.

Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane are having a tough ride in international cricket for quite sometime. Before the South Africa Tests, in the rainbow nation early this year, Rahane-Pujara were already under the scanner for their dismal runs in the longest format of the game.

Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane are having a tough ride in international cricket for quite sometime. Before the South Africa Tests, in the rainbow nation early this year, Rahane-Pujara were already under the scanner for their dismal runs in the longest format of the game. For Rahane, the senior pro had not scored a hundred since his flawless 112-run knock in the India-Australia MCG Test in late 2020. On the other hand, Pujara's century drought continues since early 2019. While Pujara has remained a vital cog with some half-centuries at regular intervals, much more is expected of him. Meanwhile, Rahane also lost his vice-captaincy position in whites owing to his dismal run with the bat. The two senior batters had a chance to revamp in the India-SA Tests, however, both didn't have a great run in the three-match series. Both returned with a half-century each in six outings. For the unversed, Rahane returned with 136 runs at 22.66 in the SA Tests whereas the No. 3 batter Pujara ended with 124 runs at 20.66. Thus, calls for their omissions have intensified. ALSO READ | IPL 2022: Maharashtra to host league stage, call on playoffs' venues not taken, says Sourav Ganguly In this regard, BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly has shared some advice for the under-fire pair. He told Sportstar, "Yeah, they are very good players. Hopefully, they will go back to Ranji Trophy and score a lot of runs, which I am sure they will. I don’t see any problem [for them to go back to domestic cricket after playing so much international cricket]. Ranji Trophy is a huge tournament, and we have all played the tournament." "So, they, too, will go back there and perform. They have played the tournament in the past when they were only playing Test cricket and were not part of the ODI or limited-overs team. So, that won’t be a problem," he added. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli opens up on Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane's future after flop show in SA Test series India's next Test assignment will be a two-match series versus Dimuth Karunaratne-led Sri Lanka, at home, in February-March. It will be interesting to see if Rahane and Pujara hold onto their respective spots -- despite intense competition with the presence of Shreyas Iyer, Hanuma Vihari, etc. -- or not. The BCCI selectors will also have to name Virat Kohli's successor in Tests after he resigned as the red-ball captain following the SA Tests.

'Hopefully, they'll go back...' -  Sourav Ganguly opines on under-fire duo Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane

Senior batters Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane are set to be demoted in BCCI's central contract list. The two senior players have been under the radar for quite sometime, owing to their poor scores in the red-ball format. Pujara's last Test ton came in early 2019 whereas the former vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane has not been able to score a hundred following his heroics in the MCG Test between India and Australia in the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

Rahane's 112 in the MCG Test remains his last Test century and, thus, the right-hander also lost the vice-captaincy post recently.&nbsp;Both Rahane and Pujara were offered a Grade A contract by BCCI in 2021, with a&nbsp;salary of Rs 5 crore each (INR 50 millions).

As per The&nbsp;Times of India, the two will be demoted to Grade B due to their low returns with the bat. The players in Grade B have a salary of Rs 3 crore each (INR 30 millions). In addition, as per the report, veteran pacers Ishant Sharma and Umesh Yadav are also likely to be dropped in the contract list.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rahul-dravid-hints-at-change-of-template-for-team-india-in-white-ball-cricket-post-south-africa-odis-447382">Rahul Dravid hints at change of template for Team India in white-ball cricket post South Africa ODIs</a>

On the other hand, the likes of KL Rahul and wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant will not be promoted&nbsp;in the central contract list, the report further adds. While the two players feature in all forms of the game for Team India, they were likely to get a promotion to Grade A+ category. However, the report suggests that it may not happen so soon for them.

The Grade A+ category comprises three players, such as Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and speedster Jasprit Bumrah. Apart from the contract list, the Indian team for the forthcoming limited-overs series versus West Indies is also set to be announced very soon.

After the disastrous tour of South Africa, India will now gear up to host West Indies and Sri Lanka before the action moves to the IPL 2022 edition.

Senior batters Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane are set to be demoted in BCCI's central contract list. The two senior players have been under the radar for quite sometime, owing to their poor scores in the red-ball format.

Senior batters Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane are set to be demoted in BCCI's central contract list. The two senior players have been under the radar for quite sometime, owing to their poor scores in the red-ball format. Pujara's last Test ton came in early 2019 whereas the former vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane has not been able to score a hundred following his heroics in the MCG Test between India and Australia in the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Rahane's 112 in the MCG Test remains his last Test century and, thus, the right-hander also lost the vice-captaincy post recently. Both Rahane and Pujara were offered a Grade A contract by BCCI in 2021, with a salary of Rs 5 crore each (INR 50 millions). As per The Times of India, the two will be demoted to Grade B due to their low returns with the bat. The players in Grade B have a salary of Rs 3 crore each (INR 30 millions). In addition, as per the report, veteran pacers Ishant Sharma and Umesh Yadav are also likely to be dropped in the contract list. ALSO READ | Rahul Dravid hints at change of template for Team India in white-ball cricket post South Africa ODIs On the other hand, the likes of KL Rahul and wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant will not be promoted in the central contract list, the report further adds. While the two players feature in all forms of the game for Team India, they were likely to get a promotion to Grade A+ category. However, the report suggests that it may not happen so soon for them. The Grade A+ category comprises three players, such as Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and speedster Jasprit Bumrah. Apart from the contract list, the Indian team for the forthcoming limited-overs series versus West Indies is also set to be announced very soon. After the disastrous tour of South Africa, India will now gear up to host West Indies and Sri Lanka before the action moves to the IPL 2022 edition.

BCCI central contracts: Test specialists Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane likely face demotion - Report

The supremely-talented Punjab batter Shubman Gill will lend solidity to the Indian middle-order when a major reshuffle is expected to force struggling Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane out of the Test team.

The reshuffle is likely to happen in the wake of India's shock 1-2 defeat against an unfancied South Africa. 
India's next Test assignment is a two-match series against Sri Lanka, starting February 25 in Bengaluru and at least two middle-order slots will be up for grabs.

Rohit Sharma is expected to be fit for that Test series and will take up his opening slot alongside KL Rahul. 
Gill has mostly played as an opener but once he recovers from his shin injury and makes himself available, it is expected that both team management and the selectors will pick him as a specialist middle-order batter.

Pujara and Rahane's exit from the national side is certain. They can only save their places if coach Rahul Dravid puts his foot down and asks the selection committee to give the out-of-form duo one last chance.

But if that happens, it is understandably going to cause a lot of heartburn to all the deserving youngsters, who might feel severely let-down for not getting the break at the right moment in their respective careers.

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/ashes-5th-test-australia-bowl-out-england-for-188-in-1st-innings-gain-152-run-lead-445010">Ashes, 5th Test: Australia bowl out England for 188 in 1st innings, gain 152-run lead</a>

"I think both Pujara and Rahane will be dropped from the team for the Sri Lanka series. Shreyas Iyer and Hanuma Vihari will both play," Sunil Gavaskar said while commentating on India-South Africa series.

"We'll have to see who plays at number three. Hanuma Vihari may take Pujara's place and Shreyas Iyer could be number five in place of Rahane, but we will have to see. Nevertheless, I think there will certainly be two spots up for grabs against Sri Lanka," Gavaskar was also heard saying.

However, team management's school of thought might just be divergent from the legendary former India opener. 
With Rahane and Pujara bringing in the same type of game into play during past two years, where it was more about self preservation and less about keeping the scoreboard ticking (save the second innings at Wanderers), the Indian team will need a free-flowing batter in that middle-order, who has the ability to take the game away in one session.

In terms of skills, technique, temperament, Gill is the solution to the problem. In fact, had KL Rahul not opted out of New Zealand home series due to niggle and fatigue, Gill would have played in the middle-order.

If Gill plays at number five, he can exploit the conditions when the ball becomes old and the attack is tired. Also, he has the range to take on the bowlers when the second new ball will be in operation.

Two way battle between Vihari-Iyer 
 
The trickier choice is for the other middle-order slot where Shreyas Iyer and Hanuma Vihari will be locked in an intense battle. Both have been impressive -- Iyer in his short two-match career and Vihari giving his all in one overseas Test he has competed in.

Vihari is a defensive player, who brings in technical solidity and a sense of calm which is a pre-requisite in Test cricket, especially as the conditions and flow of the game keep changing.

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/ajit-agarkar-on-rahane-and-pujaras-future-in-test-cricket-you-have-players-who-can-take-their-places-444979">Ajit Agarkar on Rahane and Pujara's future in Test cricket: 'You have players who can take their places'</a>

It makes him a good choice for number three as Pujara's replacement but if positive intent and x-factor is considered, Iyer is certainly a far better choice.

However the jury is still out on one aspect of Iyer's batting which the selectors as well head coach Rahul Dravid will be keenly assessing -- the Mumbaikar's ability to handle short balls.

Any chance of comeback for Pujara-Rahane 
 
In Indian cricket, you can never say never. Both are 33 years old and perhaps need to go back to the drawing board and revisit what they have been doing wrong.

The problem with professional cricketers is that if a technical flaw crops up in midst of a series, rectifying it is tough and they just work their way around that flaw.

It's a kind of temporary option but with no dedicated off-seasons like what players of yesteryears enjoyed, probably a break from the national team will give them enough time to work on their flaws and comeback stronger.

It would have been great had the Ranji Trophy not been put on hold once again as it would have given them quality match practice and ability to correct mistakes in live game situation which is always the best option. 
If not, they might play for English county but to be fair, county stint during the earlier phase wasn't of great help to either Pujara or Rahane.

Therefore, it doesn't look too bright for the duo as some serious talent is waiting in the wings.

The supremely-talented Punjab batter Shubman Gill will lend solidity to the Indian middle-order when a major reshuffle is expected to force struggling Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane out of the Test team.

The supremely-talented Punjab batter Shubman Gill will lend solidity to the Indian middle-order when a major reshuffle is expected to force struggling Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane out of the Test team. The reshuffle is likely to happen in the wake of India's shock 1-2 defeat against an unfancied South Africa. India's next Test assignment is a two-match series against Sri Lanka, starting February 25 in Bengaluru and at least two middle-order slots will be up for grabs. Rohit Sharma is expected to be fit for that Test series and will take up his opening slot alongside KL Rahul. Gill has mostly played as an opener but once he recovers from his shin injury and makes himself available, it is expected that both team management and the selectors will pick him as a specialist middle-order batter. Pujara and Rahane's exit from the national side is certain. They can only save their places if coach Rahul Dravid puts his foot down and asks the selection committee to give the out-of-form duo one last chance. But if that happens, it is understandably going to cause a lot of heartburn to all the deserving youngsters, who might feel severely let-down for not getting the break at the right moment in their respective careers. Read Also | Ashes, 5th Test: Australia bowl out England for 188 in 1st innings, gain 152-run lead "I think both Pujara and Rahane will be dropped from the team for the Sri Lanka series. Shreyas Iyer and Hanuma Vihari will both play," Sunil Gavaskar said while commentating on India-South Africa series. "We'll have to see who plays at number three. Hanuma Vihari may take Pujara's place and Shreyas Iyer could be number five in place of Rahane, but we will have to see. Nevertheless, I think there will certainly be two spots up for grabs against Sri Lanka," Gavaskar was also heard saying. However, team management's school of thought might just be divergent from the legendary former India opener. With Rahane and Pujara bringing in the same type of game into play during past two years, where it was more about self preservation and less about keeping the scoreboard ticking (save the second innings at Wanderers), the Indian team will need a free-flowing batter in that middle-order, who has the ability to take the game away in one session. In terms of skills, technique, temperament, Gill is the solution to the problem. In fact, had KL Rahul not opted out of New Zealand home series due to niggle and fatigue, Gill would have played in the middle-order. If Gill plays at number five, he can exploit the conditions when the ball becomes old and the attack is tired. Also, he has the range to take on the bowlers when the second new ball will be in operation. Two way battle between Vihari-Iyer The trickier choice is for the other middle-order slot where Shreyas Iyer and Hanuma Vihari will be locked in an intense battle. Both have been impressive -- Iyer in his short two-match career and Vihari giving his all in one overseas Test he has competed in. Vihari is a defensive player, who brings in technical solidity and a sense of calm which is a pre-requisite in Test cricket, especially as the conditions and flow of the game keep changing. Read Also | Ajit Agarkar on Rahane and Pujara's future in Test cricket: 'You have players who can take their places' It makes him a good choice for number three as Pujara's replacement but if positive intent and x-factor is considered, Iyer is certainly a far better choice. However the jury is still out on one aspect of Iyer's batting which the selectors as well head coach Rahul Dravid will be keenly assessing -- the Mumbaikar's ability to handle short balls. Any chance of comeback for Pujara-Rahane In Indian cricket, you can never say never. Both are 33 years old and perhaps need to go back to the drawing board and revisit what they have been doing wrong. The problem with professional cricketers is that if a technical flaw crops up in midst of a series, rectifying it is tough and they just work their way around that flaw. It's a kind of temporary option but with no dedicated off-seasons like what players of yesteryears enjoyed, probably a break from the national team will give them enough time to work on their flaws and comeback stronger. It would have been great had the Ranji Trophy not been put on hold once again as it would have given them quality match practice and ability to correct mistakes in live game situation which is always the best option. If not, they might play for English county but to be fair, county stint during the earlier phase wasn't of great help to either Pujara or Rahane. Therefore, it doesn't look too bright for the duo as some serious talent is waiting in the wings.

Rahane, Pujara likely to be dropped, Rohit Sharma expected to be fit for Test series against Sri Lanka

Former India cricketer Ajit Agarkar believes the Indian team management needs to take a firm call regarding the future of senior batsmen Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane. Both Rahane and Pujara have struggled with their respective forms in Tests for India in the last few years and have failed to score runs consistently.

The duo's lean patch continued in the recently-concluded three-match Test series against South Africa where they both failed to get going once again. While Rahane managed to score 136 runs in three matches against the Proteas, Pujara notched up only 124 runs in as many games in what was an abysmal display from the senior duo.

There have been calls over the exclusion of both Pujara and Rahane from India's Test squad with a number of youngsters waiting in the wings. The likes of Shreyas Iyer, Hanuma Vihari and Shubman Gill can all be slotted in the middle-order while Ruturaj Gaikwad and KS Bharat among others remain great future prospects for the country in the longest format.

Former India cricketer Agarkar said there are tough decisions to be made on Pujara and Rahane's future but India have talented players waiting in the wings to take their spots in the team.&nbsp;

"There is no doubt that there is scrutiny on Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane and there has to be a discussion about that because you have players who can take their places. Certainly, there are tough decisions to be made, not only about Pujara or only about Rahane, but regarding both of them," Agarkar said during a discussion on Star Sports.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-charges-but-virat-kohli-co-warned-by-icc-officials-after-stump-mic-outburst-against-south-africa-444967">No charges but Virat Kohli &amp; Co. warned by ICC officials after stump-mic outburst against South Africa</a>

"You have two players - Shreyas Iyer played a good Test in Kanpur and I don't think Vihari has done anything wrong whenever he has played Test cricket. You have Shubman Gill as well, so you have options," he added.

<h2>You have to decide what is best for the Indian team: Agarkar</h2>

Both Rahane and Pujara have been underperforming with the bat for quite a while now in Tests. However, they have been given a long rope by the selectors and the team management considering their experience and their contributions in the past.

However, Agarkar believes Pujara and Rahane's future should be decided for the larger good of the team as the duo look under pressure each time they walk out to bat in the middle.&nbsp;

"It is not that you are doing this just because you have lost. We are seeing with both these players for quite some time that every time they go out to bat, we say they are under pressure, or it might be their most important innings, or their last innings in Test cricket and the way they are batting," said Agarkar.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dream-turned-into-a-nightmare-suni-gavaskar-baffled-by-indias-tactics-in-third-test-against-south-africa-444945">&nbsp;'Dream turned into a nightmare': Suni Gavaskar baffled by India's tactics in third Test against South Africa</a>

"You will have to decide what is best for your team. You will have to take those decisions and those decisions cannot be emotional, whether that player has played 150 Tests or five Tests. If a player is not taking the team forward, maybe those are the decisions you have to take," he explained.

<h2>&nbsp;</h2>

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Former India cricketer Ajit Agarkar believes the Indian team management needs to take a firm call regarding the future of senior batsmen Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane.

Former India cricketer Ajit Agarkar believes the Indian team management needs to take a firm call regarding the future of senior batsmen Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane. Both Rahane and Pujara have struggled with their respective forms in Tests for India in the last few years and have failed to score runs consistently. The duo's lean patch continued in the recently-concluded three-match Test series against South Africa where they both failed to get going once again. While Rahane managed to score 136 runs in three matches against the Proteas, Pujara notched up only 124 runs in as many games in what was an abysmal display from the senior duo. There have been calls over the exclusion of both Pujara and Rahane from India's Test squad with a number of youngsters waiting in the wings. The likes of Shreyas Iyer, Hanuma Vihari and Shubman Gill can all be slotted in the middle-order while Ruturaj Gaikwad and KS Bharat among others remain great future prospects for the country in the longest format. Former India cricketer Agarkar said there are tough decisions to be made on Pujara and Rahane's future but India have talented players waiting in the wings to take their spots in the team. "There is no doubt that there is scrutiny on Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane and there has to be a discussion about that because you have players who can take their places. Certainly, there are tough decisions to be made, not only about Pujara or only about Rahane, but regarding both of them," Agarkar said during a discussion on Star Sports. Also Read: No charges but Virat Kohli & Co. warned by ICC officials after stump-mic outburst against South Africa "You have two players - Shreyas Iyer played a good Test in Kanpur and I don't think Vihari has done anything wrong whenever he has played Test cricket. You have Shubman Gill as well, so you have options," he added. You have to decide what is best for the Indian team: Agarkar Both Rahane and Pujara have been underperforming with the bat for quite a while now in Tests. However, they have been given a long rope by the selectors and the team management considering their experience and their contributions in the past. However, Agarkar believes Pujara and Rahane's future should be decided for the larger good of the team as the duo look under pressure each time they walk out to bat in the middle. "It is not that you are doing this just because you have lost. We are seeing with both these players for quite some time that every time they go out to bat, we say they are under pressure, or it might be their most important innings, or their last innings in Test cricket and the way they are batting," said Agarkar. Also Read: 'Dream turned into a nightmare': Suni Gavaskar baffled by India's tactics in third Test against South Africa "You will have to decide what is best for your team. You will have to take those decisions and those decisions cannot be emotional, whether that player has played 150 Tests or five Tests. If a player is not taking the team forward, maybe those are the decisions you have to take," he explained.

Ajit Agarkar on Rahane and Pujara's future in Test cricket: 'You have players who can take their places'

India lost the three-match Test series versus South Africa on Friday (January 14) at Newlands, Cape Town. Defending 212, India had claimed two wickets of the Dean Elgar-led side at stumps on Day 3 with the hosts well placed at 101-2 on Thursday.

Day 4 produced only one wicket for Virat Kohli-led India as Keegan Petersen (82), Rassie van der Dussen and Temba Bavuma completed the formalities for the hosts as they won the contest by seven wickets to clinch the series 2-1, despite conceding a 1-0 lead.

While India did fight hard during the course of the three Tests, in the African nation, the&nbsp;batters let the team down significantly. The likes of Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Mayank Agarwal didn't do anything extra ordinary whereas Kohli's century-drought continues. KL Rahul produced two good knocks but failed to capitalise on his starts on many occasions.&nbsp;

Hence, India returned with scores of 327, 174, 202, 266, 223 and 198. Talking about Rahane and Pujara, in particular, the two have been out of form for quite sometime. Rahane's last triple-figure knock came in late 2020 whereas Pujara has gone over two years since his last hundred. In the SA series, Rahane amassed 136 runs at 22.66 whereas the No. 3 batter Pujara finished with&nbsp;124 runs at 20.66.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-think-you-can-keep-me-quiet-virat-kohli-goes-after-sa-counterpart-dean-elgar-in-3rd-test-watch-444778">You think you can keep me quiet: Virat Kohli goes after SA counterpart Dean Elgar in 3rd Test - WATCH</a>

At the post-match press conference, Captain Kohli addressed India's batting woes and also opined on Pujara and Rahane. “Obviously, the batting has let us down in the last two games when we needed to step up. There is no running away from that. (On Pujara, Rahane) I cannot sit here and talk about what’s going to happen in the future. You’ll probably have to speak to the selectors about what they have in mind because this is not my job," he said.

Kohli added, "As I said before and I will say again, we will continue to back Cheteshwar and Ajinkya because of the kind of players they are, what they have done in Test cricket for India over the years, playing crucial knocks. In the second Test as well, you saw that important partnership in the second innings, which got us to a total that we could fight for. What the selectors have in mind, I cannot comment on that sitting here."

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Kohli about Pujara-Rahane 👇. No clear indication about the future though.<a href="https://t.co/O6QyJ43gct">pic.twitter.com/O6QyJ43gct</a>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/updated-icc-world-test-championship-points-table-after-south-africa-clinch-series-vs-india-at-home-444753">Updated ICC World Test Championship points table after South Africa clinch series vs India at home</a>

Kohli &amp; Co. will, however, be gutted to miss the golden opportunity to win their first-ever Test series in the rainbow nation.&nbsp;

The action will now move to the three-match ODI series, starting on January 19 at Paarl. India will be led by KL Rahul in limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma's absence.&nbsp;

India lost the three-match Test series versus South Africa on Friday (January 14) at Newlands, Cape Town. Defending 212, India had claimed two wickets of the Dean Elgar-led side at stumps on Day 3 with the hosts well placed at 101-2 on Thursday.

India lost the three-match Test series versus South Africa on Friday (January 14) at Newlands, Cape Town. Defending 212, India had claimed two wickets of the Dean Elgar-led side at stumps on Day 3 with the hosts well placed at 101-2 on Thursday. Day 4 produced only one wicket for Virat Kohli-led India as Keegan Petersen (82), Rassie van der Dussen and Temba Bavuma completed the formalities for the hosts as they won the contest by seven wickets to clinch the series 2-1, despite conceding a 1-0 lead. While India did fight hard during the course of the three Tests, in the African nation, the batters let the team down significantly. The likes of Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Mayank Agarwal didn't do anything extra ordinary whereas Kohli's century-drought continues. KL Rahul produced two good knocks but failed to capitalise on his starts on many occasions. Hence, India returned with scores of 327, 174, 202, 266, 223 and 198. Talking about Rahane and Pujara, in particular, the two have been out of form for quite sometime. Rahane's last triple-figure knock came in late 2020 whereas Pujara has gone over two years since his last hundred. In the SA series, Rahane amassed 136 runs at 22.66 whereas the No. 3 batter Pujara finished with 124 runs at 20.66. ALSO READ | You think you can keep me quiet: Virat Kohli goes after SA counterpart Dean Elgar in 3rd Test - WATCH At the post-match press conference, Captain Kohli addressed India's batting woes and also opined on Pujara and Rahane. “Obviously, the batting has let us down in the last two games when we needed to step up. There is no running away from that. (On Pujara, Rahane) I cannot sit here and talk about what’s going to happen in the future. You’ll probably have to speak to the selectors about what they have in mind because this is not my job," he said. Kohli added, "As I said before and I will say again, we will continue to back Cheteshwar and Ajinkya because of the kind of players they are, what they have done in Test cricket for India over the years, playing crucial knocks. In the second Test as well, you saw that important partnership in the second innings, which got us to a total that we could fight for. What the selectors have in mind, I cannot comment on that sitting here." Kohli about Pujara-Rahane 👇. No clear indication about the future though.pic.twitter.com/O6QyJ43gct — Ryan (@ryandesa_07) January 14, 2022 × ALSO READ | Updated ICC World Test Championship points table after South Africa clinch series vs India at home Kohli & Co. will, however, be gutted to miss the golden opportunity to win their first-ever Test series in the rainbow nation. The action will now move to the three-match ODI series, starting on January 19 at Paarl. India will be led by KL Rahul in limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma's absence.

Virat Kohli opens up on Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane's future after flop show in SA Test series

India and South Africa's third and final Test is moving ahead at a rapid pace. After managing only 223 in the first innings, Virat Kohli-led Indian team staged a stunning recovery on Day 2, on Wednesday (January 12), to dismiss SA for 210 and take a slender 13-run lead. At stumps, India were 57-2, with an overall lead of 70.

In the opening over of the third day's play, on Thursday (January 13), Dean Elgar-led Proteas were off to a brilliant start. Having a leg-slip for Cheteshwar Pujara, Marco Jansen dropped it short as Pujara feathered it down&nbsp;before Petersen produced a blinder to take a one-handed stunner.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-sa-cape-town-test-kohli-achieves-unique-ton-joins-stalwarts-tendulkar-dravid-in-elite-list-444195">India vs SA, Cape Town Test: Kohli achieves unique ton, joins stalwarts Tendulkar, Dravid in elite list</a>

The video of the dismissal was shared by Cricket South Africa's (CSA) official Twitter handle. The caption read, "Keegan Petersen with a magnificent catch on the second ball of the day."

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Keegan Petersen with a magnificent catch on the second ball of the day😍 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvIND</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FreedomTestSeries?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FreedomTestSeries</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BePartOfIt?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BePartOfIt</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/Betway_India?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Betway_India</a> <a href="https://t.co/zqcAtMahSi">pic.twitter.com/zqcAtMahSi</a>
— Cricket South Africa (@OfficialCSA) <a href="https://twitter.com/OfficialCSA/status/1481548049046458370?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hes-entertaining-but-brad-hogg-opines-on-pant-advises-dravid-to-not-have-a-word-with-him-444102">'He’s entertaining but...' - Brad Hogg opines on Pant, advises Dravid to not have a word with him</a>

After Pujara's dismissal, India also lost former vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane for cheap. The veteran batter's forgettable run continued as he fell for a 9-ball 1. Following the dismissals of Pujara and Rahane, India have made progress with Captain Virat Kohli and wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant's unbroken fifty-plus stand for the fifth-wicket before lunch being taken in the middle on Day 3.

At lunch on Day 3, India are 130-4 (lead by 143) with Rishabh Pant batting on 51 and Kohli unbeaten on 28.

India and South Africa's third and final Test is moving ahead at a rapid pace. After managing only 223 in the first innings, Virat Kohli-led Indian team staged a stunning recovery on Day 2, on Wednesday (January 12), to dismiss SA for 210 and take a slender 13-run lead.

India and South Africa's third and final Test is moving ahead at a rapid pace. After managing only 223 in the first innings, Virat Kohli-led Indian team staged a stunning recovery on Day 2, on Wednesday (January 12), to dismiss SA for 210 and take a slender 13-run lead. At stumps, India were 57-2, with an overall lead of 70. In the opening over of the third day's play, on Thursday (January 13), Dean Elgar-led Proteas were off to a brilliant start. Having a leg-slip for Cheteshwar Pujara, Marco Jansen dropped it short as Pujara feathered it down before Petersen produced a blinder to take a one-handed stunner. ALSO READ | India vs SA, Cape Town Test: Kohli achieves unique ton, joins stalwarts Tendulkar, Dravid in elite list The video of the dismissal was shared by Cricket South Africa's (CSA) official Twitter handle. The caption read, "Keegan Petersen with a magnificent catch on the second ball of the day." Keegan Petersen with a magnificent catch on the second ball of the day😍 #SAvIND #FreedomTestSeries #BePartOfIt | @Betway_India pic.twitter.com/zqcAtMahSi — Cricket South Africa (@OfficialCSA) January 13, 2022 × ALSO READ | 'He’s entertaining but...' - Brad Hogg opines on Pant, advises Dravid to not have a word with him After Pujara's dismissal, India also lost former vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane for cheap. The veteran batter's forgettable run continued as he fell for a 9-ball 1. Following the dismissals of Pujara and Rahane, India have made progress with Captain Virat Kohli and wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant's unbroken fifty-plus stand for the fifth-wicket before lunch being taken in the middle on Day 3. At lunch on Day 3, India are 130-4 (lead by 143) with Rishabh Pant batting on 51 and Kohli unbeaten on 28.

WATCH: Keegan Petersen takes a one-handed stunner to dismiss Cheteshwar Pujara on Day 3 in Cape Town

Team India locked horns with South Africa on Day 1 of the third and final Test at Newlands, Cape Town on Tuesday (January 11). The opening day was also head coach Rahul Dravid's birthday as the former Indian captain turned 49.&nbsp;

On Dravid's birthday, Virat Kohli-led India won the toss and opted to bat first in Cape Town. Riding on skipper Kohli's gritty 79, the visitors managed only a below-par 223 in the first innings before the Dean Elgar-led hosts went to stumps at 13-1, trailing the Indian team by 210 runs. While the day wasn't an ideal one for Team India, with the batters once again failing to capitalise on starts and score big, the atmosphere in the dressing room was jubilant as the national side's players celebrated Dravid's birthday in style after end of proceedings.

Pictures of Dravid cutting his birthday cake and the likes of Rishabh Pant, Cheteshwar Pujara, Umesh Yadav, batting coach Vikram Rathour, etc. being around the birthday man went viral. Pacer Mohammed Shami shared images of the celebration on his official Twitter handle.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/as-you-get-older-you-dont-know-what-to-feel-says-rahul-dravid-as-team-india-head-coach-turns-49-443931">As you get older you don’t know what to feel, says Rahul Dravid as Team India head coach turns 49</a>

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Birthday wishes to our very own Head Coach Rahul Dravid 
 
Here's to many more smiles in the future <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/2VsrBTs4mJ">pic.twitter.com/2VsrBTs4mJ</a>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hes-entertaining-but-brad-hogg-opines-on-pant-advises-dravid-to-not-have-a-word-with-him-444102">'He’s entertaining but...' - Brad Hogg opines on Pant, advises Dravid to not have a word with him</a>

Ahead of the start of the third and final Test, on Tuesday, Dravid was wished by commentator&nbsp;Pommie Mbangwa on-air to which the former Indian skipper said, "As you get older you don’t know what to feel when it’s your birthday. You are a year older. But it’s nice, some nice wishes from friends, family, and fans. So very grateful for all of that."

At present, the third and final Test is interestingly poised as the Indian pacers haven't allowed SA batters to run away with the game in response to India's 223.&nbsp;At tea on Day 2, SA are 176-7, trailing India by 47 runs.

Team India locked horns with South Africa on Day 1 of the third and final Test at Newlands, Cape Town on Tuesday (January 11). The opening day was also head coach Rahul Dravid's birthday as the former Indian captain turned 49.

Team India locked horns with South Africa on Day 1 of the third and final Test at Newlands, Cape Town on Tuesday (January 11). The opening day was also head coach Rahul Dravid's birthday as the former Indian captain turned 49. On Dravid's birthday, Virat Kohli-led India won the toss and opted to bat first in Cape Town. Riding on skipper Kohli's gritty 79, the visitors managed only a below-par 223 in the first innings before the Dean Elgar-led hosts went to stumps at 13-1, trailing the Indian team by 210 runs. While the day wasn't an ideal one for Team India, with the batters once again failing to capitalise on starts and score big, the atmosphere in the dressing room was jubilant as the national side's players celebrated Dravid's birthday in style after end of proceedings. Pictures of Dravid cutting his birthday cake and the likes of Rishabh Pant, Cheteshwar Pujara, Umesh Yadav, batting coach Vikram Rathour, etc. being around the birthday man went viral. Pacer Mohammed Shami shared images of the celebration on his official Twitter handle. ALSO READ | As you get older you don’t know what to feel, says Rahul Dravid as Team India head coach turns 49 Birthday wishes to our very own Head Coach Rahul Dravid Here's to many more smiles in the future #TeamIndia pic.twitter.com/2VsrBTs4mJ — Mohammad Shami (@MdShami11) January 11, 2022 × ALSO READ | 'He’s entertaining but...' - Brad Hogg opines on Pant, advises Dravid to not have a word with him Ahead of the start of the third and final Test, on Tuesday, Dravid was wished by commentator Pommie Mbangwa on-air to which the former Indian skipper said, "As you get older you don’t know what to feel when it’s your birthday. You are a year older. But it’s nice, some nice wishes from friends, family, and fans. So very grateful for all of that." At present, the third and final Test is interestingly poised as the Indian pacers haven't allowed SA batters to run away with the game in response to India's 223. At tea on Day 2, SA are 176-7, trailing India by 47 runs.

[PICS] Team India players celebrate head coach Rahul Dravid's 49th birthday after Day 1 of 3rd Test

India and South Africa are set to lock horns with each other in the third and final Test at The Newlands, Cape Town on Tuesday (January 11). Ahead of the series decider, captain Virat Kohli announced himself to be fully fit after missing the second and penultimate contest where KL Rahul &amp; Co. lost by 8 wickets at The Wanderers, Johannesburg.&nbsp;

With the series interestingly poised at 1-1, India have a strong chance to win their first-ever series on South African soil. After the highs in Australia and England recently, Kohli &amp; Co. will be upbeat and aim to go for the kill versus Dean Elgar-led South Africa. However, the visitors will still have to address few issues in order to attain a memorable Test series win in the rainbow nation. While the under-fire duo Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane shared a vital 111-run stand, for the third-wicket, in India's second essay in the J'burg Test and returned with a fifty each, the two have been a pale shadow of themselves in the recent years with a big knock evading them. Hence, the 33-year-old Kohli spoke about them at length in the pre-match press-conference and backed the pair.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/a-look-at-indias-record-in-cape-town-as-virat-kohli-co-search-for-maiden-test-series-win-in-south-africa-443691">A look at India's record in Cape Town as Virat Kohli &amp; Co. search for maiden Test series win in South Africa</a>

Kohli believes that while there has been a lot of talk against Rahane-Pujara, the transition can happen naturally and the team management is pleased with the duo's partnership in J'burg. He told, "I cannot pinpoint when we'll have a transition in the team. The way Pujara and Ajinkya batted in the last Test that experience is priceless for us. I feel transitions do happen but they happen naturally, you can't force them."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-remembers-dhonis-advice-while-talking-about-pants-shot-selection-ahead-of-cape-town-test-443620">Virat Kohli remembers Dhoni's advice while talking about Pant's shot selection ahead of Cape Town Test</a>

On his own century-drought, Kohli said while replying to an ANI query, "This is not the first time that people have talked about my form, it has happened a few times in my career. England in 2014 was one of those phases. I do not kind of look at myself from the lens the outside world looks at me with. The standards have been set by me myself, they are not an occurrence from the outside world, and more than anyone else, I take a lot of pride in doing the best for the team and wanting to perform for the team regularly."

It is interesting to note that India's middle-order, comprising Pujara, Kohli and Rahane, have been through a rough patch of late. While Pujara's last ton came in early 2019, Kohli's last Test triple-figure knock came later the same year (also his last international hundred). Rahane made an impressive ton in the MCG Test, in late 2020, but hasn't been able to replicate the same since then.&nbsp;

India will hope the trio steps up and performs in the series deciding clash at Newlands, Cape Town.

India and South Africa are set to lock horns with each other in the third and final Test at The Newlands, Cape Town on Tuesday (January 11). Ahead of the series decider, captain Virat Kohli announced himself to be fully fit after missing the second and penultimate contest where KL Rahul & Co.

India and South Africa are set to lock horns with each other in the third and final Test at The Newlands, Cape Town on Tuesday (January 11). Ahead of the series decider, captain Virat Kohli announced himself to be fully fit after missing the second and penultimate contest where KL Rahul & Co. lost by 8 wickets at The Wanderers, Johannesburg. With the series interestingly poised at 1-1, India have a strong chance to win their first-ever series on South African soil. After the highs in Australia and England recently, Kohli & Co. will be upbeat and aim to go for the kill versus Dean Elgar-led South Africa. However, the visitors will still have to address few issues in order to attain a memorable Test series win in the rainbow nation. While the under-fire duo Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane shared a vital 111-run stand, for the third-wicket, in India's second essay in the J'burg Test and returned with a fifty each, the two have been a pale shadow of themselves in the recent years with a big knock evading them. Hence, the 33-year-old Kohli spoke about them at length in the pre-match press-conference and backed the pair. ALSO READ | A look at India's record in Cape Town as Virat Kohli & Co. search for maiden Test series win in South Africa Kohli believes that while there has been a lot of talk against Rahane-Pujara, the transition can happen naturally and the team management is pleased with the duo's partnership in J'burg. He told, "I cannot pinpoint when we'll have a transition in the team. The way Pujara and Ajinkya batted in the last Test that experience is priceless for us. I feel transitions do happen but they happen naturally, you can't force them." ALSO READ | Virat Kohli remembers Dhoni's advice while talking about Pant's shot selection ahead of Cape Town Test On his own century-drought, Kohli said while replying to an ANI query, "This is not the first time that people have talked about my form, it has happened a few times in my career. England in 2014 was one of those phases. I do not kind of look at myself from the lens the outside world looks at me with. The standards have been set by me myself, they are not an occurrence from the outside world, and more than anyone else, I take a lot of pride in doing the best for the team and wanting to perform for the team regularly." It is interesting to note that India's middle-order, comprising Pujara, Kohli and Rahane, have been through a rough patch of late. While Pujara's last ton came in early 2019, Kohli's last Test triple-figure knock came later the same year (also his last international hundred). Rahane made an impressive ton in the MCG Test, in late 2020, but hasn't been able to replicate the same since then. India will hope the trio steps up and performs in the series deciding clash at Newlands, Cape Town.

Way they batted in J'burg is priceless: Virat Kohli backs under-fire duo Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane

India lost the second and penultimate Test versus Dean Elgar-led South Africa by 7 wickets as the threee-match series is now levelled at 1-1 with the final Test set to be held on January 11, at Newlands, Cape Town. Despite the loss, India have plenty of takeaways as they competed hard despite regular captain Virat Kohli warming the bench due to upper back spasm.

In addition, the middle-order stood tall as the likes of under-fire senior pros Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane got some runs (sharing a 111-run stand for the third-wicket during India's second essay) and returning with a half-century each. Hanuma Vihari, playing for injured Kohli, also got runs in both the innings and looked impressive. After the Test, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar has lavished praise on India's No. 3 Pujara and claims that he reminds him of SA great Hashim Amla.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/updated-icc-world-test-cship-points-table-after-dean-elgar-led-south-africa-beat-india-in-jburg-442895">Updated ICC World Test C'ship points table after Dean Elgar-led South Africa beat India in J'burg</a>

“When I look at him, he reminds me of Hashim. Watching Hashim bat, you know there's a sense of calm that everything is under control. The ball could be doing things but there was that sense because even on pitches where the ball was turning, the way Hashim was batting in India, it was almost as if, 'look, nothing's happening', and that's the same thing with Cheteshwar Pujara," said Gavaskar on SuperSport.

Gavaskar further termed that players with Pujara's temperament are "absolutely terrific"&nbsp;for the dressing room.

“It is a great, great blessing to have players of this temperament in your dressing room. (It may not be) necessarily just on the field but it's a huge plus and I think having somebody with Cheteshwar Puajra's temperament in the changing room must be absolutely terrific because in international cricket, there are several moments of tension where people would want to do this or that or the other. When you have somebody who's going to think about it calmly and give you a measured opinion it makes a big difference,” said Gavaskar.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/biggest-challenge-for-rahul-dravid-will-be-ex-selector-reacts-to-indias-jburg-test-defeat-vs-sa-442965">'Biggest challenge for Rahul Dravid will be....' - Ex-selector reacts to India's J'burg Test defeat vs SA</a>

Despite the second Test loss, India still have a chance to win their maiden series on South African soil if they win the decider in Cape Town. The visitors will hope for Kohli's return and also for Pujara to score a daddy hundred and lead the charge with the bat.

India lost the second and penultimate Test versus Dean Elgar-led South Africa by 7 wickets as the threee-match series is now levelled at 1-1 with the final Test set to be held on January 11, at Newlands, Cape Town.

India lost the second and penultimate Test versus Dean Elgar-led South Africa by 7 wickets as the threee-match series is now levelled at 1-1 with the final Test set to be held on January 11, at Newlands, Cape Town. Despite the loss, India have plenty of takeaways as they competed hard despite regular captain Virat Kohli warming the bench due to upper back spasm. In addition, the middle-order stood tall as the likes of under-fire senior pros Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane got some runs (sharing a 111-run stand for the third-wicket during India's second essay) and returning with a half-century each. Hanuma Vihari, playing for injured Kohli, also got runs in both the innings and looked impressive. After the Test, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar has lavished praise on India's No. 3 Pujara and claims that he reminds him of SA great Hashim Amla. ALSO READ | Updated ICC World Test C'ship points table after Dean Elgar-led South Africa beat India in J'burg “When I look at him, he reminds me of Hashim. Watching Hashim bat, you know there's a sense of calm that everything is under control. The ball could be doing things but there was that sense because even on pitches where the ball was turning, the way Hashim was batting in India, it was almost as if, 'look, nothing's happening', and that's the same thing with Cheteshwar Pujara," said Gavaskar on SuperSport. Gavaskar further termed that players with Pujara's temperament are "absolutely terrific" for the dressing room. “It is a great, great blessing to have players of this temperament in your dressing room. (It may not be) necessarily just on the field but it's a huge plus and I think having somebody with Cheteshwar Puajra's temperament in the changing room must be absolutely terrific because in international cricket, there are several moments of tension where people would want to do this or that or the other. When you have somebody who's going to think about it calmly and give you a measured opinion it makes a big difference,” said Gavaskar. ALSO READ | 'Biggest challenge for Rahul Dravid will be....' - Ex-selector reacts to India's J'burg Test defeat vs SA Despite the second Test loss, India still have a chance to win their maiden series on South African soil if they win the decider in Cape Town. The visitors will hope for Kohli's return and also for Pujara to score a daddy hundred and lead the charge with the bat.

Not Virat Kohli or KL Rahul! Sunil Gavaskar names under-fire Indian batter who reminds him of Hashim Amla

Unheralded seam bowler Shardul Thakur turned out to be an unlikely hero with a career-best 7 for 61 to keep India on an even keel against South Africa on an intriguing second day of the second Test here on Tuesday. Standing at 5 feet 7 inches and with a physique that is an antithesis of what is perceived to be a fast bowler's body, the skiddy Thakur (17.5-3-61-7) landed crucial blows at opportune moments to send the Proteas packing for 229 in their first innings.

It was his effort that nullified India's seemingly inadequate first innings score of 202 with the lead being restricted to 27 and then erased by visitors as they reached 85 for 2 at stumps, losing stand-in skipper KL Rahul (8) and Mayank Agarwal's (23) wicket.

The two under-fire seniors Cheteshwar Pujara (35 batting) and Ajinkya Rahane (11 batting) were at the crease and for a change showed lot of positivity and intent. India now lead by 58 runs. Shardul means 'Tiger' in Sanskrit and his teammates teasingly call him 'Lord Beefy' which incidentally is legendary all-rounder Ian Botham's nickname.

The 'Tiger' was in a mood to hunt inside the 'Bull Ring' under sunny the Johannesburg skyline and he did exactly that, coming up with a performance which is over and above what even coach Rahul Dravid would have expected.

On a pitch with spongy, tennis ball like bounce, a total of 180 to 200 will be an onerous fourth innings chase for South Africa as the match is expected to end well within four days if the weather doesn't play spoilsport.

The day started nicely for South Africa as their dogged skipper Dean Elgar (28 off 120 balls) was happy to play the ugly waiting game while allowing his younger colleague Keegan Peterson (62 off 118 balls) to play an attacking role.

It was going well in a stand of 74 as South Africa reached 88 for one before Thakur was brought into the attack in the 34th over as the second change. With Mohammed Siraj bowling from a shorter run-up and not able to exert himself fully due to a hamstring injury, the man from Maharashtra's Palghar district had to take more responsibility with the team virtually one bowler short.

Mohammed Shami (2/52 in 21 overs) and Jasprit Bumrah (1/49 in 21 overs) once again bowled their hearts out, beat the outside edges without much luck before Thakur came into the picture and dealt three blows in quick succession just before lunch. 
 
Thakur, when he burst into the domestic scene, was more of a 135 kmph plus bowler but over the years, he is bowling in the 120-130 kmph band but possesses a mean outswinger and a lethal off-cutter delivered with scrambled seam and grip of a slower delivery.

In case of a scrambled seam, the stitched part of the ball doesn't hit the ground and if the ball's shine is maintained well, which the Indian team did diligently, it lands on the skin (red part) and starts skidding at a pace which is more than what the batters can apprehend.

"Since he has a habit of bowling a lot of off-breaks (slower delivery for pacers with tweak of finger) in limited overs cricket, he is using that skill effectively in Tests also. He might bowl at 130 kmph but with the scrambled seam, he hurries the batter a touch more)," his childhood coach Dinesh Lad told PTI from Mumbai.

The delivery that got Peterson was a conventional outswinger which wasn't at drivable length and the batter went for a non-existent punch through covers only to land in second slip Agarwal's palms. Before that, Peterson's left-handed skipper Elgar got one that moved late taking the outside edge.

Similarly, in the second session, just when Temba Bavuma (51 off 60 balls) and Kyle Verreynne (21) added 58 and looked like heading for a sizeable lead, Thakur produced a fuller one with scrambled seam that landed on the 'fifth off stump' and cut back sharply to trap the young keeper leg before.

In case of Bavuma, the delivery was fired towards his rib cage and was drifting down before Rishabh Pant took an extraordinary catch down the leg-side. He again came back in the final session to wrap up the innings.

Thakur doesn't have the lethal yorker of Bumrah or the top quality skill sets of Shami or the scorching pace of Siraj. But he is more than the sum total of his parts, in this case the skills which make him special. 
 
Out of Shardul's seven wickets, the dismissal of Rassie van der Dussen did create some controversy as TV replays turned out to be inconclusive whether Thakur's off-cutter, that literally had the batter cut into half, was taken cleanly by Pant.

One angle seemed to suggest that it was picked on the bounce and it was learnt that home team captain Elgar visited the match referee's room to have a chat.

In 2011, Mahendra Singh Dhoni in an exemplary show of sportsmanship had called back Ian Bell after the batter was adjudged run-out in the post lunch session.

On Tuesday, with match hanging in balance, no such favours were doled out by the current team.

Unheralded seam bowler Shardul Thakur turned out to be an unlikely hero with a career-best 7 for 61 to keep India on an even keel against South Africa on an intriguing second day of the second Test here on Tuesday.

Unheralded seam bowler Shardul Thakur turned out to be an unlikely hero with a career-best 7 for 61 to keep India on an even keel against South Africa on an intriguing second day of the second Test here on Tuesday. Standing at 5 feet 7 inches and with a physique that is an antithesis of what is perceived to be a fast bowler's body, the skiddy Thakur (17.5-3-61-7) landed crucial blows at opportune moments to send the Proteas packing for 229 in their first innings. It was his effort that nullified India's seemingly inadequate first innings score of 202 with the lead being restricted to 27 and then erased by visitors as they reached 85 for 2 at stumps, losing stand-in skipper KL Rahul (8) and Mayank Agarwal's (23) wicket. The two under-fire seniors Cheteshwar Pujara (35 batting) and Ajinkya Rahane (11 batting) were at the crease and for a change showed lot of positivity and intent. India now lead by 58 runs. Shardul means 'Tiger' in Sanskrit and his teammates teasingly call him 'Lord Beefy' which incidentally is legendary all-rounder Ian Botham's nickname. The 'Tiger' was in a mood to hunt inside the 'Bull Ring' under sunny the Johannesburg skyline and he did exactly that, coming up with a performance which is over and above what even coach Rahul Dravid would have expected. On a pitch with spongy, tennis ball like bounce, a total of 180 to 200 will be an onerous fourth innings chase for South Africa as the match is expected to end well within four days if the weather doesn't play spoilsport. The day started nicely for South Africa as their dogged skipper Dean Elgar (28 off 120 balls) was happy to play the ugly waiting game while allowing his younger colleague Keegan Peterson (62 off 118 balls) to play an attacking role. It was going well in a stand of 74 as South Africa reached 88 for one before Thakur was brought into the attack in the 34th over as the second change. With Mohammed Siraj bowling from a shorter run-up and not able to exert himself fully due to a hamstring injury, the man from Maharashtra's Palghar district had to take more responsibility with the team virtually one bowler short. Mohammed Shami (2/52 in 21 overs) and Jasprit Bumrah (1/49 in 21 overs) once again bowled their hearts out, beat the outside edges without much luck before Thakur came into the picture and dealt three blows in quick succession just before lunch. Thakur, when he burst into the domestic scene, was more of a 135 kmph plus bowler but over the years, he is bowling in the 120-130 kmph band but possesses a mean outswinger and a lethal off-cutter delivered with scrambled seam and grip of a slower delivery. In case of a scrambled seam, the stitched part of the ball doesn't hit the ground and if the ball's shine is maintained well, which the Indian team did diligently, it lands on the skin (red part) and starts skidding at a pace which is more than what the batters can apprehend. "Since he has a habit of bowling a lot of off-breaks (slower delivery for pacers with tweak of finger) in limited overs cricket, he is using that skill effectively in Tests also. He might bowl at 130 kmph but with the scrambled seam, he hurries the batter a touch more)," his childhood coach Dinesh Lad told PTI from Mumbai. The delivery that got Peterson was a conventional outswinger which wasn't at drivable length and the batter went for a non-existent punch through covers only to land in second slip Agarwal's palms. Before that, Peterson's left-handed skipper Elgar got one that moved late taking the outside edge. Similarly, in the second session, just when Temba Bavuma (51 off 60 balls) and Kyle Verreynne (21) added 58 and looked like heading for a sizeable lead, Thakur produced a fuller one with scrambled seam that landed on the 'fifth off stump' and cut back sharply to trap the young keeper leg before. In case of Bavuma, the delivery was fired towards his rib cage and was drifting down before Rishabh Pant took an extraordinary catch down the leg-side. He again came back in the final session to wrap up the innings. Thakur doesn't have the lethal yorker of Bumrah or the top quality skill sets of Shami or the scorching pace of Siraj. But he is more than the sum total of his parts, in this case the skills which make him special. Out of Shardul's seven wickets, the dismissal of Rassie van der Dussen did create some controversy as TV replays turned out to be inconclusive whether Thakur's off-cutter, that literally had the batter cut into half, was taken cleanly by Pant. One angle seemed to suggest that it was picked on the bounce and it was learnt that home team captain Elgar visited the match referee's room to have a chat. In 2011, Mahendra Singh Dhoni in an exemplary show of sportsmanship had called back Ian Bell after the batter was adjudged run-out in the post lunch session. On Tuesday, with match hanging in balance, no such favours were doled out by the current team.

IND vs SA, 2nd Test: Shardul Thakur takes 7-for to bring India back in game, visitors 85/2 at stumps

The second and penultimate Test between India and South Africa, at The Wanderers, Johannesburg, has been a pulsating affair so far. After winning the toss, the KL Rahul-led Indian team managed only a paltry 202 in 63.1 overs. In reply, SA started the second day's play at 35-1 before being all-out for 229 courtesy Shardul Thakur's splendid 7 for 61. Hence, the match is expected to go down the wire with the series scoreline currently in India's favour (1-0).

For the unversed, India are without regular captain Virat Kohli (due to upper back spasm) whereas the senior pros Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane have continued to under-perform with the bat in the J'burg Test. The duo managed only 3 runs among themselves in the first essay as the pressure is riding on their shoulders to hold onto their respective Test slots. Nonetheless, despite no Kohli and hardly any contribution from Rahane and Pujara so far in the contest, the KL Rahul-led side remain in contest after conceding a lead of only 27 runs to the Proteas. This has been the case for India in the recent past as they have&nbsp;continued to perform in all cylinders in the purest format despite their big guns not being at their best.

In this regard, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan pointed out being surprised with India's good returns in red-ball format while slamming&nbsp;Pujara and Rahane for being far from their best.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/self-confidence-willing-to-accept-responsibilities-ex-ind-bowling-consultant-mentions-sharduls-qualities-442222">Self-confidence, willing to accept responsibilities: Ex-IND bowling consultant mentions Shardul's qualities</a>

Irfan slammed Pujara and Rahane and told on Star Sports, "These two, we are talking about senior players here, they have played more than 60 Test matches and when you have played that amount of Test cricket for India, you need to average more than 40. And if you look at their averages in the last 3 years, it has been under 30 and that is highly disappointing."

“Ajinkya Rahane showed a lot of intent with the way he played in the first innings. His footwork was decisive and he looked positive. But here (in Johannesburg), both of them were disappointing,” he added.

Pathan asserted, "Surprising that India is still doing well despite Virat Kohli not scoring runs, Ajinkya Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara in the same boat." He has cautioned Rahane and Pujara to start scoring as many batters are waiting in the pipeline. “They need to start performing consistently because guys are waiting in the wings."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sa-r-ashwin-watches-on-as-jasprit-bumrah-copies-off-spinners-action-during-jburg-test-watch-442208">Ind vs SA: R Ashwin watches on as Jasprit Bumrah copies off-spinner's action during J'burg Test - WATCH</a>

To back Pathan's claims, India have done exceedingly well in Tests in the recent past without their big guns coming to the party. India won the Australia Tests, Down Under, without Virat Kohli (winning the series finale without R Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, Ravindra Jadeja, etc.). Pujara and Rahane under-performed even in the England Tests, in the United Kingdom in mid-2021, but India gained an unassailable 2-1 lead in the incomplete series.

While the recent performances have been very good for the national side in Tests, the team would want their big names such as Kohli, Pujara and Rahane to also start scoring in full flow in the near future.&nbsp;

The second and penultimate Test between India and South Africa, at The Wanderers, Johannesburg, has been a pulsating affair so far. After winning the toss, the KL Rahul-led Indian team managed only a paltry 202 in 63.

The second and penultimate Test between India and South Africa, at The Wanderers, Johannesburg, has been a pulsating affair so far. After winning the toss, the KL Rahul-led Indian team managed only a paltry 202 in 63.1 overs. In reply, SA started the second day's play at 35-1 before being all-out for 229 courtesy Shardul Thakur's splendid 7 for 61. Hence, the match is expected to go down the wire with the series scoreline currently in India's favour (1-0). For the unversed, India are without regular captain Virat Kohli (due to upper back spasm) whereas the senior pros Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane have continued to under-perform with the bat in the J'burg Test. The duo managed only 3 runs among themselves in the first essay as the pressure is riding on their shoulders to hold onto their respective Test slots. Nonetheless, despite no Kohli and hardly any contribution from Rahane and Pujara so far in the contest, the KL Rahul-led side remain in contest after conceding a lead of only 27 runs to the Proteas. This has been the case for India in the recent past as they have continued to perform in all cylinders in the purest format despite their big guns not being at their best. In this regard, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan pointed out being surprised with India's good returns in red-ball format while slamming Pujara and Rahane for being far from their best. ALSO READ | Self-confidence, willing to accept responsibilities: Ex-IND bowling consultant mentions Shardul's qualities Irfan slammed Pujara and Rahane and told on Star Sports, "These two, we are talking about senior players here, they have played more than 60 Test matches and when you have played that amount of Test cricket for India, you need to average more than 40. And if you look at their averages in the last 3 years, it has been under 30 and that is highly disappointing." “Ajinkya Rahane showed a lot of intent with the way he played in the first innings. His footwork was decisive and he looked positive. But here (in Johannesburg), both of them were disappointing,” he added. Pathan asserted, "Surprising that India is still doing well despite Virat Kohli not scoring runs, Ajinkya Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara in the same boat." He has cautioned Rahane and Pujara to start scoring as many batters are waiting in the pipeline. “They need to start performing consistently because guys are waiting in the wings." ALSO READ | Ind vs SA: R Ashwin watches on as Jasprit Bumrah copies off-spinner's action during J'burg Test - WATCH To back Pathan's claims, India have done exceedingly well in Tests in the recent past without their big guns coming to the party. India won the Australia Tests, Down Under, without Virat Kohli (winning the series finale without R Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, Ravindra Jadeja, etc.). Pujara and Rahane under-performed even in the England Tests, in the United Kingdom in mid-2021, but India gained an unassailable 2-1 lead in the incomplete series. While the recent performances have been very good for the national side in Tests, the team would want their big names such as Kohli, Pujara and Rahane to also start scoring in full flow in the near future.

Surprising that India is still doing well despite Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane and Pujara's barren run: Pathan

A lot has been said and written about the struggles of Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane. The two Test specialists have been under-performing with the bat for quite some time and their low scores in the ongoing second Test's first innings has intensified the talks for the duo's&nbsp;omissions.

Former Indian pacer Ashish Nehra, however, feels the two senior batters need to be persisted with for the entire three-match Test series versus South Africa. Nehra further pointed out that even someone of a stature of Virat Kohli hasn't done well with the bat. Kohli averages 26.08 in Tests since early 2020 whereas the average of likes of Rahane and Pujara also hovers around 25 during the same period.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/one-of-the-two-have-to-karthik-makes-bold-claim-predicts-who-could-miss-out-on-virat-kohlis-return-442147">'One of the two have to...' - Karthik makes bold claim, predicts who could miss out on Virat Kohli's return</a>

"Even Virat Kohli has similar numbers but people are not questioning his place in the team. Obviously, he is the captain and what Kohli has done is on a completely different level from the two batters we are talking about. It is not fair to compare, but Rahane and Pujara have also been second to none at their peak, especially the latter,” Nehra told&nbsp;Cricbuzz.

Nehra further added, "If you have backed a player like Rahane for the 1st Test, it would be better to carry on with him for the rest of the series. Obviously, Rahane was the one who was out (officially due to injury) when Kohli came back for the second Test against New Zealand, though he led the team in the first.

"Agreed, both Pujara and Rahane have been in big trouble of late. But changing players in the middle of an important series is a big decision," he asserted further.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/all-kinds-of-thoughts-manjrekar-on-kohlis-absence-says-was-absolutely-shocked-to-see-him-miss-out-442120">'All kinds of thoughts...': Manjrekar on Kohli's absence, says 'was absolutely shocked' to see him miss out</a>

For the unversed, Rahane has scored only two half-centuries following his last Test ton in the MCG Test in late 2020. On the other hand, Pujara's last hundred came in early 2019 and, hence, both the cricketers are running against time to hold onto their respective spots in whites.

Needless to say, both Rahane and Pujara will have to score big in India's second innings of the ongoing J'burg Test or will soon perish from the Test line-up.

A lot has been said and written about the struggles of Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane. The two Test specialists have been under-performing with the bat for quite some time and their low scores in the ongoing second Test's first innings has intensified the talks for the duo's omissions.

A lot has been said and written about the struggles of Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane. The two Test specialists have been under-performing with the bat for quite some time and their low scores in the ongoing second Test's first innings has intensified the talks for the duo's omissions. Former Indian pacer Ashish Nehra, however, feels the two senior batters need to be persisted with for the entire three-match Test series versus South Africa. Nehra further pointed out that even someone of a stature of Virat Kohli hasn't done well with the bat. Kohli averages 26.08 in Tests since early 2020 whereas the average of likes of Rahane and Pujara also hovers around 25 during the same period. ALSO READ | 'One of the two have to...' - Karthik makes bold claim, predicts who could miss out on Virat Kohli's return "Even Virat Kohli has similar numbers but people are not questioning his place in the team. Obviously, he is the captain and what Kohli has done is on a completely different level from the two batters we are talking about. It is not fair to compare, but Rahane and Pujara have also been second to none at their peak, especially the latter,” Nehra told Cricbuzz. Nehra further added, "If you have backed a player like Rahane for the 1st Test, it would be better to carry on with him for the rest of the series. Obviously, Rahane was the one who was out (officially due to injury) when Kohli came back for the second Test against New Zealand, though he led the team in the first. "Agreed, both Pujara and Rahane have been in big trouble of late. But changing players in the middle of an important series is a big decision," he asserted further. ALSO READ | 'All kinds of thoughts...': Manjrekar on Kohli's absence, says 'was absolutely shocked' to see him miss out For the unversed, Rahane has scored only two half-centuries following his last Test ton in the MCG Test in late 2020. On the other hand, Pujara's last hundred came in early 2019 and, hence, both the cricketers are running against time to hold onto their respective spots in whites. Needless to say, both Rahane and Pujara will have to score big in India's second innings of the ongoing J'burg Test or will soon perish from the Test line-up.

Kohli has similar numbers but people aren't questioning him: Nehra reacts to criticism of Rahane and Pujara

Virat Kohli didn't walk out for the toss in the opening day of the second Test between India and South Africa at The Wanderers, Johannesburg. In his absence, KL Rahul is leading the side, who will also captain the Men in Blue in the upcoming three ODIs versus the Proteas.

In Kohli's absence, Rahul-led India won the toss and opted to bat first in Johannesburg on Monday (January 3). Barring Rahul's 50 and R Ashwin's 46, Indian batters didn't impress as they fell like nine pins and the visitors managed only a paltry 202 in 63.1 overs. The under-pressure senior pros Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane once again failed to impress as the duo managed only 3 runs among themselves. Pujara fell for 3 whereas Rahane returned with a golden duck. Hence, veteran Indian keeper-batsman Dinesh Karthik has made a bold claim and stated that one of the two -- among Rahane and Pujara -- can make way for Kohli for the third and final Test.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/all-kinds-of-thoughts-manjrekar-on-kohlis-absence-says-was-absolutely-shocked-to-see-him-miss-out-442120">'All kinds of thoughts...': Manjrekar on Kohli's absence, says 'was absolutely shocked' to see him miss out</a>

"At No. 3, in inarguably the world's best cricket team, to find a spot there for three years and not score a hundred - he (Pujara) will know he's got a long, long rope. To a large extent they are playing because of the potential they have, and the performances they have shown, and obviously, they are senior statesmen [in the team] as well. But the long rope they have been given is slowly burning out and you are coming to the end of it. I am very, very sure that they are both aware of it. Also, we have got to see the potential of the players at the back, they have done as well. Now if Virat Kohli returns, you get a feeling that one of the two has to give way," Karthik said on Cricbuzz.

For the unversed, Pujara's last Test ton came in early 2019 whereas Rahane has managed only a handful of half-centuries post his Melbourne Test hundred in the 2020/21 Boxing Day Test versus Australia.

Karthik further added, "When Rahul Dravid was at the fag end of his career, it was actually Pujara who came in and did well at that No. 3 spot, put pressure on him to eventually take his spot... Obviously, that circle comes around... I do think Rahul Dravid will have to make a couple of harsh decisions and if that means dropping one or both of them, he'll be open to it because he knows that they have been given a long rope before... You don't want to set the ground ablaze by making the big decisions right at the outset so I think he's waiting and trying to assess what he can contribute to their careers and if it's not meant to be, it's not meant to be."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/r-ashwin-provides-update-on-mohammed-sirajs-injury-as-pacer-hobbles-off-the-pitch-during-2nd-test-vs-sa-442065">R Ashwin provides update on Mohammed Siraj's injury as pacer hobbles off the pitch during 2nd Test vs SA</a>

With Pujara and Rahane not performing well, India have more options in the form of Shreyas Iyer and Hanuma Vihari (who is part of the J'burg Test). India's second innings in the penultimate Test will surely be a litmus test for Pujara and Rahane as they are running against time to hold onto their respective spots in the Test line-up.

Virat Kohli didn't walk out for the toss in the opening day of the second Test between India and South Africa at The Wanderers, Johannesburg. In his absence, KL Rahul is leading the side, who will also captain the Men in Blue in the upcoming three ODIs versus the Proteas.

Virat Kohli didn't walk out for the toss in the opening day of the second Test between India and South Africa at The Wanderers, Johannesburg. In his absence, KL Rahul is leading the side, who will also captain the Men in Blue in the upcoming three ODIs versus the Proteas. In Kohli's absence, Rahul-led India won the toss and opted to bat first in Johannesburg on Monday (January 3). Barring Rahul's 50 and R Ashwin's 46, Indian batters didn't impress as they fell like nine pins and the visitors managed only a paltry 202 in 63.1 overs. The under-pressure senior pros Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane once again failed to impress as the duo managed only 3 runs among themselves. Pujara fell for 3 whereas Rahane returned with a golden duck. Hence, veteran Indian keeper-batsman Dinesh Karthik has made a bold claim and stated that one of the two -- among Rahane and Pujara -- can make way for Kohli for the third and final Test. ALSO READ | 'All kinds of thoughts...': Manjrekar on Kohli's absence, says 'was absolutely shocked' to see him miss out "At No. 3, in inarguably the world's best cricket team, to find a spot there for three years and not score a hundred - he (Pujara) will know he's got a long, long rope. To a large extent they are playing because of the potential they have, and the performances they have shown, and obviously, they are senior statesmen [in the team] as well. But the long rope they have been given is slowly burning out and you are coming to the end of it. I am very, very sure that they are both aware of it. Also, we have got to see the potential of the players at the back, they have done as well. Now if Virat Kohli returns, you get a feeling that one of the two has to give way," Karthik said on Cricbuzz. For the unversed, Pujara's last Test ton came in early 2019 whereas Rahane has managed only a handful of half-centuries post his Melbourne Test hundred in the 2020/21 Boxing Day Test versus Australia. Karthik further added, "When Rahul Dravid was at the fag end of his career, it was actually Pujara who came in and did well at that No. 3 spot, put pressure on him to eventually take his spot... Obviously, that circle comes around... I do think Rahul Dravid will have to make a couple of harsh decisions and if that means dropping one or both of them, he'll be open to it because he knows that they have been given a long rope before... You don't want to set the ground ablaze by making the big decisions right at the outset so I think he's waiting and trying to assess what he can contribute to their careers and if it's not meant to be, it's not meant to be." ALSO READ | R Ashwin provides update on Mohammed Siraj's injury as pacer hobbles off the pitch during 2nd Test vs SA With Pujara and Rahane not performing well, India have more options in the form of Shreyas Iyer and Hanuma Vihari (who is part of the J'burg Test). India's second innings in the penultimate Test will surely be a litmus test for Pujara and Rahane as they are running against time to hold onto their respective spots in the Test line-up.

'One of the two have to...' - Karthik makes bold claim, predicts who could miss out on Virat Kohli's return

Cheteshwar Pujara's woeful run with the bat continued on Day 1 of the second and penultimate Test between India and South Africa on Monday (January 3). After stand-in captain KL Rahul won the toss and opted to bat first, India started off decently to reach 36 for no loss before they were quickly reduced to 49-3 in no time.

After Mayank Agarwal (26) was the first wicket to fall on the day, No. 3 batter Pujara was expected to grind it out in the middle with no Virat Kohli in the line-up, due to upper back spasm. However, nothing of that sort happened as the 33-year-old perished for cheap (3), falling to a well-executed short-pitched delivery from SA's pacer&nbsp;Duanne Olivier.

With another failure, Pujara is surely running against time to hold onto his Test spot. For the unversed, the right-hander's last triple-figure knock came in early 2019 versus Australia Down Under. Since then, he has had vital fifty-plus scores under his belt, however, the senior pro has failed to convert them. Moreover, Pujara has fallen to short-pitched balls or being beaten by the incoming deliveries.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-is-the-type-of-person-you-want-ex-pak-skipper-all-praise-for-rahul-dravid-for-backing-virat-kohli-441979">'This is the type of person you want...': Ex-Pak skipper all praise for Rahul Dravid for backing Virat Kohli</a>

Former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra decoded Pujara's failures in the lunch break and told on Star Sports, "He is not even hitting the half volley with full might and we can an uncanny pattern in his dismissals. He had nicked Ngidi's delivery in the first innings of the Centurion Test. If we look at his hands and the height of the delivery, why is he even trying to play off the front foot instead of using the depth of the crease."

"If you are always lunging forward with low hands, bowlers are going to enjoy bowling against you on South African pitches. Extra bounce, low hands, lunging forward… that's a recipe for disaster," he added.

To showcase Pujara's woes, he&nbsp;has now gone 45 innings without a century. Thus, former South Africa pacer Morne Morkel also spoke at length about the short ball ploy used against Pujara and said,&nbsp;"He needs to find a way to get off the strike in South Africa and have that intent to score. There is no better feeling bowler when you run in and know that the batter is not trying to take you on."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pujara-and-rahane-have-just-the-next-innings-to-save-their-test-careers-says-sunil-gavaskar-as-duo-fail-again-441970">Pujara and Rahane have just the next innings to save their Test careers, says Sunil Gavaskar as duo fail again</a>

India are without regular captain Kohli in the second Test in Johannesburg. The visitors have lost more than half the side for 150 after opting to bat first. They will hope to post anything over 220 and then challenge the Dean Elgar-led Proteas with the red cherry in hand.

Cheteshwar Pujara's woeful run with the bat continued on Day 1 of the second and penultimate Test between India and South Africa on Monday (January 3). After stand-in captain KL Rahul won the toss and opted to bat first, India started off decently to reach 36 for no loss before they were quickly reduced to 49-3 in no time.

Cheteshwar Pujara's woeful run with the bat continued on Day 1 of the second and penultimate Test between India and South Africa on Monday (January 3). After stand-in captain KL Rahul won the toss and opted to bat first, India started off decently to reach 36 for no loss before they were quickly reduced to 49-3 in no time. After Mayank Agarwal (26) was the first wicket to fall on the day, No. 3 batter Pujara was expected to grind it out in the middle with no Virat Kohli in the line-up, due to upper back spasm. However, nothing of that sort happened as the 33-year-old perished for cheap (3), falling to a well-executed short-pitched delivery from SA's pacer Duanne Olivier. With another failure, Pujara is surely running against time to hold onto his Test spot. For the unversed, the right-hander's last triple-figure knock came in early 2019 versus Australia Down Under. Since then, he has had vital fifty-plus scores under his belt, however, the senior pro has failed to convert them. Moreover, Pujara has fallen to short-pitched balls or being beaten by the incoming deliveries. ALSO READ | 'This is the type of person you want...': Ex-Pak skipper all praise for Rahul Dravid for backing Virat Kohli Former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra decoded Pujara's failures in the lunch break and told on Star Sports, "He is not even hitting the half volley with full might and we can an uncanny pattern in his dismissals. He had nicked Ngidi's delivery in the first innings of the Centurion Test. If we look at his hands and the height of the delivery, why is he even trying to play off the front foot instead of using the depth of the crease." "If you are always lunging forward with low hands, bowlers are going to enjoy bowling against you on South African pitches. Extra bounce, low hands, lunging forward… that's a recipe for disaster," he added. To showcase Pujara's woes, he has now gone 45 innings without a century. Thus, former South Africa pacer Morne Morkel also spoke at length about the short ball ploy used against Pujara and said, "He needs to find a way to get off the strike in South Africa and have that intent to score. There is no better feeling bowler when you run in and know that the batter is not trying to take you on." ALSO READ | Pujara and Rahane have just the next innings to save their Test careers, says Sunil Gavaskar as duo fail again India are without regular captain Kohli in the second Test in Johannesburg. The visitors have lost more than half the side for 150 after opting to bat first. They will hope to post anything over 220 and then challenge the Dean Elgar-led Proteas with the red cherry in hand.

IND vs SA, 2nd Test: Aakash Chopra points out 'uncanny pattern' to Pujara's dismissals amid his struggles

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