<p>Rishabh Pant slammed a stunning century in the series-deciding third and final ODI against England at Old Trafford in Manchester on Sunday (June 17) to help the Men in Blue clinch a historic 2-1 series win. Pant played a sensational knock of unbeaten 125 off 113 balls to help India chase down the target of 260 runs comfortably with 47 balls to spare.</p>

<p>Pant had started India's ongoing tour of England with a brilliant century in the one-off fifth Test and the swashbuckling wicket-keeper batter ended the tour with a ton in the third ODI on Sunday. The left-hander single-handedly took the game away from England with his unbeaten 125-run knock which was laced with 16 fours and 2 sixes.</p>

<p>Asked to chase down a target of 260 runs in the series decider at Old Trafford, India were left reeling at 72/4 at one stage when Pant joined forces with Hardik Pandya in the middle to steady the ship for the visitors. Despite India being under pressure, Pant and Pandya played their natural game and took the England bowlers to the cleaners.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-am-shameless-as-a-bowler-hardik-pandya-dwells-on-his-face-off-with-liam-livingstone-498402">'I am shameless as a bowler...': Hardik Pandya dwells on his face-off with Liam Livingstone</a></p>

<p>The duo added a match-winning stand of 133- runs for the fifth wicket before Pandya was dismissed on 71 off 55 balls. Pant continued going strong on one end as he went on to notch up his maiden ODI century and ensured he finished the run-chase for the Men in Blue.</p>

<p>With his maiden ODI ton, Pant achieved an elusive feat as he became the first Asian wicket-keeper to score a century in both ODIs and Tests in England. No other Asian wicket-keeper batter had managed to achieve the feat before Pant in the history of the game.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/unmissable-rohits-reaction-goes-viral-after-pant-hits-winning-runs-in-indias-odi-series-win-vs-eng-watch-498379">Rohit's reaction goes viral after Pant hits winning runs in India's ODI series win vs ENG - WATCH</a></p>

<p>Along with Pant, Hardik was also one of the heroes of India's victory in the third ODI as the star all-rounder produced a magnificent performance with the bat and the ball. He picked up a four-wicket haul to run through the England batting line-up before scoring a brilliant 71 to help India chase down the target of 260 runs.</p>

<p>But, it was Pant, who won the Man of the Match award for his incredible display with the bat. The left-hander played one of his best ODI knocks under difficult circumstances to inspire India to a historic series win. India had earlier beaten England 2-1 in the T20I series.</p>


Rishabh Pant slammed a stunning century in the series-deciding third and final ODI against England at Old Trafford in Manchester on Sunday (June 17) to help the Men in Blue clinch a historic 2-1 series win.

Rishabh Pant slammed a stunning century in the series-deciding third and final ODI against England at Old Trafford in Manchester on Sunday (June 17) to help the Men in Blue clinch a historic 2-1 series win. Pant played a sensational knock of unbeaten 125 off 113 balls to help India chase down the target of 260 runs comfortably with 47 balls to spare. Pant had started India's ongoing tour of England with a brilliant century in the one-off fifth Test and the swashbuckling wicket-keeper batter ended the tour with a ton in the third ODI on Sunday. The left-hander single-handedly took the game away from England with his unbeaten 125-run knock which was laced with 16 fours and 2 sixes. Asked to chase down a target of 260 runs in the series decider at Old Trafford, India were left reeling at 72/4 at one stage when Pant joined forces with Hardik Pandya in the middle to steady the ship for the visitors. Despite India being under pressure, Pant and Pandya played their natural game and took the England bowlers to the cleaners. Also Read: 'I am shameless as a bowler...': Hardik Pandya dwells on his face-off with Liam Livingstone The duo added a match-winning stand of 133- runs for the fifth wicket before Pandya was dismissed on 71 off 55 balls. Pant continued going strong on one end as he went on to notch up his maiden ODI century and ensured he finished the run-chase for the Men in Blue. With his maiden ODI ton, Pant achieved an elusive feat as he became the first Asian wicket-keeper to score a century in both ODIs and Tests in England. No other Asian wicket-keeper batter had managed to achieve the feat before Pant in the history of the game. Also Read: Rohit's reaction goes viral after Pant hits winning runs in India's ODI series win vs ENG - WATCH Along with Pant, Hardik was also one of the heroes of India's victory in the third ODI as the star all-rounder produced a magnificent performance with the bat and the ball. He picked up a four-wicket haul to run through the England batting line-up before scoring a brilliant 71 to help India chase down the target of 260 runs. But, it was Pant, who won the Man of the Match award for his incredible display with the bat. The left-hander played one of his best ODI knocks under difficult circumstances to inspire India to a historic series win. India had earlier beaten England 2-1 in the T20I series.

ODI and Test tons in England! Rishabh Pant becomes 1st Asian wicket-keeper batter to achieve remarkable feat

<p>Pakistan captain Babar Azam pulled his side back from the brink with a century that helped the touring side dig themselves out of trouble on day two of the first test against Sri Lanka on Sunday.</p>

<p>With Pakistan on 148-9, the writing appeared to be on the wall as they appeared set to concede a huge lead to the home side on a turning track. But a record partnership for the last wicket between Babar and Naseem Shah put&nbsp; Pakistan back in contention as they conceded just a four-run deficit in the first innings.</p>

<p>The 70-run stand between Babar and Naseem is a new record in Galle in tests with the previous best being the 63-run partnership between Dimuth Karunaratne and Lakshan Sandman against South Africa in 2018.</p>

<p>Sri Lanka were 36-1 at stumps on day two for a lead of 40. Oshada Fernando was unbeaten on 17 while night-watchman Kasun Rajitha was on 3. Pakistan were struggling in their reply after Sri Lanka had posted 222 in their first innings before Babar played a captain's knock.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-captain-babar-azam-breaks-virat-kohlis-record-to-achieve-elusive-feat-498185">Pakistan captain Babar Azam breaks Virat Kohli's record to achieve huge milestone</a></p>

<p>On a track where most Pakistan batsmen struggled to play spin, Babar was solid. Often playing on the front foot with soft hands negating the turn, he left well and cashed in when there were opportunities to score.</p>

<p>The last wicket partnership lasted for more than two hours and frustrated Sri Lanka, which had to take the second new ball to break the stand. By that time Babar, who was playing his first test match in Sri Lanka had posted his seventh hundred.</p>

<p>His knock lasted more than five hours in which he faced 244 deliveries, hit 11 fours and two sixes. Babar also dominated the strike from the no. 11 with Naseem Shah contributing just five runs during the partnership.</p>

<p>Prabath Jayasuriya, meanwhile, continued his impressive run in tests. Playing his second test match, the left-arm spinner claimed his third five-wicket haul to finish with five for 82.</p>

<p>He had been sidelined due to fitness issues and was picked to make his test debut in the second test against Australia after the Sri Lanka camp was hit by COVID-19. He claimed 12 for 177, the best figures by a Sri Lankan on debut.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-mohammed-siraj-dismisses-root-bairstow-on-ducks-in-double-wicket-maiden-over-against-england-498234">WATCH - Siraj dismisses Root, Bairstow on ducks in double-wicket maiden over against England</a></p>

<p>Play got underway 30 minutes late on Sunday morning due to a wet outfield. The series is being played despite Sri Lanka going through an economic and political crisis. There are severe shortage of essential items such as fuel, cooking gas and medicine and mass protests are taking place in the capital Colombo prompting authorities to consider shifting the second test scheduled for Colombo to Galle.</p>

<p>The Lanka Premier League, a franchise-based T20 tournament that also features some foreign players and scheduled to begin&nbsp;on the Aug. 1 has been postponed due to the ongoing crisis. There are fears that the Asia Cup scheduled to take place in Sri Lanka later in August will also be shifted.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Pakistan captain Babar Azam pulled his side back from the brink with a century that helped the touring side dig themselves out of trouble on day two of the first test against Sri Lanka on Sunday.

Pakistan captain Babar Azam pulled his side back from the brink with a century that helped the touring side dig themselves out of trouble on day two of the first test against Sri Lanka on Sunday. With Pakistan on 148-9, the writing appeared to be on the wall as they appeared set to concede a huge lead to the home side on a turning track. But a record partnership for the last wicket between Babar and Naseem Shah put Pakistan back in contention as they conceded just a four-run deficit in the first innings. The 70-run stand between Babar and Naseem is a new record in Galle in tests with the previous best being the 63-run partnership between Dimuth Karunaratne and Lakshan Sandman against South Africa in 2018. Sri Lanka were 36-1 at stumps on day two for a lead of 40. Oshada Fernando was unbeaten on 17 while night-watchman Kasun Rajitha was on 3. Pakistan were struggling in their reply after Sri Lanka had posted 222 in their first innings before Babar played a captain's knock. Also Read: Pakistan captain Babar Azam breaks Virat Kohli's record to achieve huge milestone On a track where most Pakistan batsmen struggled to play spin, Babar was solid. Often playing on the front foot with soft hands negating the turn, he left well and cashed in when there were opportunities to score. The last wicket partnership lasted for more than two hours and frustrated Sri Lanka, which had to take the second new ball to break the stand. By that time Babar, who was playing his first test match in Sri Lanka had posted his seventh hundred. His knock lasted more than five hours in which he faced 244 deliveries, hit 11 fours and two sixes. Babar also dominated the strike from the no. 11 with Naseem Shah contributing just five runs during the partnership. Prabath Jayasuriya, meanwhile, continued his impressive run in tests. Playing his second test match, the left-arm spinner claimed his third five-wicket haul to finish with five for 82. He had been sidelined due to fitness issues and was picked to make his test debut in the second test against Australia after the Sri Lanka camp was hit by COVID-19. He claimed 12 for 177, the best figures by a Sri Lankan on debut. Also Read: WATCH - Siraj dismisses Root, Bairstow on ducks in double-wicket maiden over against England Play got underway 30 minutes late on Sunday morning due to a wet outfield. The series is being played despite Sri Lanka going through an economic and political crisis. There are severe shortage of essential items such as fuel, cooking gas and medicine and mass protests are taking place in the capital Colombo prompting authorities to consider shifting the second test scheduled for Colombo to Galle. The Lanka Premier League, a franchise-based T20 tournament that also features some foreign players and scheduled to begin on the Aug. 1 has been postponed due to the ongoing crisis. There are fears that the Asia Cup scheduled to take place in Sri Lanka later in August will also be shifted.

Babar Azam slams brilliant century to leave 1st Test between Pakistan and Sri Lanka evenly poised

<p>Former India cricketer and popular commentator Aakash Chopra has raised questions over Team India's selection policy after senior spinner R Ashwin returned to the visitors' limited-overs squad for the upcoming series against West Indies. Ashwin has made his comeback to India's T20I squad and will be hoping to impress the selectors ahead of the T20 World Cup 2022 this year.</p>

<p>Ashwin had earlier made a surprising comeback in India's T20I squad for T20 World Cup 2022 after a long gap of four years. The senior spinner did feature in a handful of matches at the World Cup before being sidelined again. He will now make his comeback in T20Is against West Indies later this month.</p>

<p>India will play 3 ODIs and 5 T20Is against West Indies from July to August and have named a strong squad despite a number of senior players missing the series. Leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal is not part of the T20I squad and in his absence, Ashwin is expected to be India's first-choice spinner.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-mohammed-siraj-dismisses-root-bairstow-on-ducks-in-double-wicket-maiden-over-against-england-498234">WATCH: Siraj dismisses Root, Bairstow on ducks in double-wicket maiden over against England</a></p>

<p>Cricketer turned commentator Chopra is not quite impressed with Ashwin's selection in India's T20I squad and has questioned the logic behind his comeback. Chopra questioned why Ashwin was sidelined from T20Is post the T20 World Cup last year and why has he returned to the squad now?</p>

<p>"Ravichandran Ashwin is back, that's an interesting one. What is the long-term perspective? Why was he not there in the team for the last 8-10 months? Why was he totally sidelined after the World Cup and why has he come back now?" Chopra said in a video on his youtube channel.</p>

<p>"Actually he did play five matches (including three at the World Cup), he did well but after that, he has not got too many chances. Then you should have played him against Sri Lanka and South Africa as well. You didn't play him in the T20Is in England as well although he was there in England, you could have played him," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-had-rs-40-cr-in-bank-when-i-joined-and-rs-47680-cr-when-i-was-banned-claims-lalit-modi-498210">BCCI had Rs 400 million in bank when I joined and Rs 476.8 billion when I was banned: Lalit Modi</a></p>

<p>Ashwin featured in only one white-ball series for India post the conclusion of the T20 World Cup 2022 last year. He also made his ODI comeback on the South Africa tour earlier this year where he played two ODIs before being dropped and has since failed to make his comeback for India in white-ball cricket.</p>

<p>Ashwin will be hoping to make an impact with the ball in the T20I series against West Indie which remains his last hope to make the cut into India's squad for the T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia later this year.</p>


Former India cricketer and popular commentator Aakash Chopra has raised questions over Team India's selection policy after senior spinner R Ashwin returned to the visitors' limited-overs squad for the upcoming series against West Indies.

Former India cricketer and popular commentator Aakash Chopra has raised questions over Team India's selection policy after senior spinner R Ashwin returned to the visitors' limited-overs squad for the upcoming series against West Indies. Ashwin has made his comeback to India's T20I squad and will be hoping to impress the selectors ahead of the T20 World Cup 2022 this year. Ashwin had earlier made a surprising comeback in India's T20I squad for T20 World Cup 2022 after a long gap of four years. The senior spinner did feature in a handful of matches at the World Cup before being sidelined again. He will now make his comeback in T20Is against West Indies later this month. India will play 3 ODIs and 5 T20Is against West Indies from July to August and have named a strong squad despite a number of senior players missing the series. Leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal is not part of the T20I squad and in his absence, Ashwin is expected to be India's first-choice spinner. Also Read: WATCH: Siraj dismisses Root, Bairstow on ducks in double-wicket maiden over against England Cricketer turned commentator Chopra is not quite impressed with Ashwin's selection in India's T20I squad and has questioned the logic behind his comeback. Chopra questioned why Ashwin was sidelined from T20Is post the T20 World Cup last year and why has he returned to the squad now? "Ravichandran Ashwin is back, that's an interesting one. What is the long-term perspective? Why was he not there in the team for the last 8-10 months? Why was he totally sidelined after the World Cup and why has he come back now?" Chopra said in a video on his youtube channel. "Actually he did play five matches (including three at the World Cup), he did well but after that, he has not got too many chances. Then you should have played him against Sri Lanka and South Africa as well. You didn't play him in the T20Is in England as well although he was there in England, you could have played him," he added. Also Read: BCCI had Rs 400 million in bank when I joined and Rs 476.8 billion when I was banned: Lalit Modi Ashwin featured in only one white-ball series for India post the conclusion of the T20 World Cup 2022 last year. He also made his ODI comeback on the South Africa tour earlier this year where he played two ODIs before being dropped and has since failed to make his comeback for India in white-ball cricket. Ashwin will be hoping to make an impact with the ball in the T20I series against West Indie which remains his last hope to make the cut into India's squad for the T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia later this year.

Why was R Ashwin sidelined after T20 WC, why has he come back? Aakash Chopra questions Indian selectors

<p>Former Indian Premier League (IPL) chairman Lalit Modi has made a bold claim stating that he helped the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) grow its wealth by&nbsp;multiple folds with the help of the launch of the Indian Premier League (IPL) back in 2008. Modi was one of the key figures behind the inception of the world's richest cricket league in 2008 and served as the chairman of IPL from 2008 to 2010.</p>

<p>The former IPL chairman has been garnering the limelight on social media for the past couple of days after announcing his relationship with former Miss Universe and Bollywood actress Sushmita Sen. Modi shared pictures with Sen on social media to confirm their relationship leaving social media abuzz with all sorts of reactions.</p>

<p>Many have also trolled the former IPL chairman, who was banned for life by BCCI in the year 2013 after he was found guilty of a total of 8 charges, including rigging bids, and taking decisions without the governing council's approval, money laundering and betting among others.</p>

<p>Modi recently took to Instagram to share a lengthy post hitting out at the media and trolls claiming that he was born with a 'diamond spoon' and&nbsp;'never took bribe' from anyone, and neither took any favour from the government of India. In his post, Modi also made a bold claim about his stint with the BCCI stating that the Indian cricket board&nbsp;had Rs 40 crore (INR 400 million) in the bank when he had joined the organisation and Rs&nbsp;47,680 crore&nbsp;(INR&nbsp;476.8 billion) when he was banned.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/one-champion-to-another-harbhajan-lauds-babar-azam-virat-kohli-over-heartfelt-twitter-exchange-498165">'One champion to another': Harbhajan lauds Babar Azam, Virat Kohli over heartfelt Twitter exchange</a></p>

<p>"It's time you woke up - when I joined BCCI it&nbsp;had&nbsp;40 crores in the bank. I joined on my birthday Nov 29 2005. Guess what was in the bank when I was banned&nbsp;- 47,680 crores," Modi claimed in his Instagram post.</p>

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<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CgF1-KQteG6/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Lalit Modi (@lalitkmodi)</a></p>
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<p>While he played an instrumental role in starting the Indian Premier League, Modi also served as vice-president of the BCCI from 2005 to 2010. He was first suspended by the BCCI immediately after the conclusion of IPL 2010 after being accused of financial misconduct and irregularities before being banned for life by a BCCI committee in 2013.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-captain-babar-azam-breaks-virat-kohlis-record-to-achieve-elusive-feat-498185">Pakistan captain Babar Azam breaks Virat Kohli's record to achieve huge milestone</a></p>

<p>The businessman and former IPL chairman also held the post of the President of the Rajasthan Cricket Association (RCA) from 2005 to 2009 before being reappointed for one year in 2014. He is also the&nbsp;President and Managing Director of Modi Enterprises - his family-owned business conglomerate.</p>


Former Indian Premier League (IPL) chairman Lalit Modi has made a bold claim stating that he helped the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) grow its wealth by multiple folds with the help of the launch of the Indian Premier League (IPL) back in 2008.

Former Indian Premier League (IPL) chairman Lalit Modi has made a bold claim stating that he helped the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) grow its wealth by multiple folds with the help of the launch of the Indian Premier League (IPL) back in 2008. Modi was one of the key figures behind the inception of the world's richest cricket league in 2008 and served as the chairman of IPL from 2008 to 2010. The former IPL chairman has been garnering the limelight on social media for the past couple of days after announcing his relationship with former Miss Universe and Bollywood actress Sushmita Sen. Modi shared pictures with Sen on social media to confirm their relationship leaving social media abuzz with all sorts of reactions. Many have also trolled the former IPL chairman, who was banned for life by BCCI in the year 2013 after he was found guilty of a total of 8 charges, including rigging bids, and taking decisions without the governing council's approval, money laundering and betting among others. Modi recently took to Instagram to share a lengthy post hitting out at the media and trolls claiming that he was born with a 'diamond spoon' and 'never took bribe' from anyone, and neither took any favour from the government of India. In his post, Modi also made a bold claim about his stint with the BCCI stating that the Indian cricket board had Rs 40 crore (INR 400 million) in the bank when he had joined the organisation and Rs 47,680 crore (INR 476.8 billion) when he was banned. Also Read: 'One champion to another': Harbhajan lauds Babar Azam, Virat Kohli over heartfelt Twitter exchange "It's time you woke up - when I joined BCCI it had 40 crores in the bank. I joined on my birthday Nov 29 2005. Guess what was in the bank when I was banned - 47,680 crores," Modi claimed in his Instagram post. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lalit Modi (@lalitkmodi) × While he played an instrumental role in starting the Indian Premier League, Modi also served as vice-president of the BCCI from 2005 to 2010. He was first suspended by the BCCI immediately after the conclusion of IPL 2010 after being accused of financial misconduct and irregularities before being banned for life by a BCCI committee in 2013. Also Read: Pakistan captain Babar Azam breaks Virat Kohli's record to achieve huge milestone The businessman and former IPL chairman also held the post of the President of the Rajasthan Cricket Association (RCA) from 2005 to 2009 before being reappointed for one year in 2014. He is also the President and Managing Director of Modi Enterprises - his family-owned business conglomerate.

BCCI had Rs 400 million in bank when I joined and Rs 476.8 billion when I was banned, claims Lalit Modi

<p>Pakistan captain Babar Azam broke yet another record of Virat Kohli en route to his brilliant half-century in the ongoing first Test against Sri Lanka at the Galle International Stadium in Galle. Babar became the fastest Asian batter to complete the milestone of 10,000 runs in international cricket surpassing Kohli to the elusive feat.</p>

<p>Babar achieved the milestone during Pakistan's first innings on Day 2 of the ongoing Galle Test against Sri Lanka. One of the best batters in the present era, Babar has taken 228 innings to complete 10,000 runs in international cricket and is the fastest Asian batter to achieve the feat.</p>

<p>He surpassed Kohli, who held the record previously having completed 10,000 international runs in 232 innings. Babar also left behind some of the legends of the game like Sunil Gavaskar, Javed Miandad and Sourav Ganguly&nbsp;to become the fastest Asian to achieve the feat.</p>

<p><strong>Fastest Asian batters to reach 10000 runs in international cricket (in terms of innings)</strong></p>

<p>Babar Azam - 228<br />
Virat Kohli - 232<br />
Sunil Gavaskar - 243<br />
Javed Miandad - 248<br />
Sourav Ganguly - 253</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-anushka-sharma-respond-after-kevin-pietersen-sends-message-of-support-to-former-india-captain-498150">Kohli, Anushka respond after Kevin Pietersen sends message of support to former India captain</a></p>

<p>Babar has been one of the consistent performers for Pakistan across formats over the last few years and has already established his credentials as one of the best in the world. He turned out to be the saviour for his team yet again during their first innings against Sri Lanka after spinner Prabath Jayasuriya ran through the Pakistani batting line-up with a five-wicket haul.</p>

<p>Babar held strong as Pakistan kept losing wickets at regular intervals on the other end. The Pakistan skipper notched up a gritty fifty and is edging towards a well-deserved century in the game. However, Pakistan have only one wicket left and it remains to be seen if Babar will be able to reach the triple-figure mark.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/one-champion-to-another-harbhajan-lauds-babar-azam-virat-kohli-over-heartfelt-twitter-exchange-498165">'One champion to another': Harbhajan lauds Babar Azam, Virat Kohli over heartfelt Twitter exchange</a></p>

<p>While he is the fastest Asian to complete the milestone of 10,000 runs in international cricket, West Indies legend Viv Richards tops the overall list of batters who have been fastest to the feat. Richards completed the milestone in 206 innings followed by South African great Hashim Amla, who took 217 innings to reach 10,000 international runs.</p>

<p><strong>Fastest Player to reach 10000 runs in international cricket (in terms of&nbsp;innings</strong></p>

<p>Viv Richards -&nbsp;&nbsp;206<br />
Hashim Amla - 217<br />
Brian Lara - 220<br />
Joe Root - 222<br />
Babar Azam - 228</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Pakistan captain Babar Azam broke yet another record of Virat Kohli en route to his brilliant half-century in the ongoing first Test against Sri Lanka at the Galle International Stadium in Galle.

Pakistan captain Babar Azam broke yet another record of Virat Kohli en route to his brilliant half-century in the ongoing first Test against Sri Lanka at the Galle International Stadium in Galle. Babar became the fastest Asian batter to complete the milestone of 10,000 runs in international cricket surpassing Kohli to the elusive feat. Babar achieved the milestone during Pakistan's first innings on Day 2 of the ongoing Galle Test against Sri Lanka. One of the best batters in the present era, Babar has taken 228 innings to complete 10,000 runs in international cricket and is the fastest Asian batter to achieve the feat. He surpassed Kohli, who held the record previously having completed 10,000 international runs in 232 innings. Babar also left behind some of the legends of the game like Sunil Gavaskar, Javed Miandad and Sourav Ganguly to become the fastest Asian to achieve the feat. Fastest Asian batters to reach 10000 runs in international cricket (in terms of innings) Babar Azam - 228 Virat Kohli - 232 Sunil Gavaskar - 243 Javed Miandad - 248 Sourav Ganguly - 253 Also Read: Kohli, Anushka respond after Kevin Pietersen sends message of support to former India captain Babar has been one of the consistent performers for Pakistan across formats over the last few years and has already established his credentials as one of the best in the world. He turned out to be the saviour for his team yet again during their first innings against Sri Lanka after spinner Prabath Jayasuriya ran through the Pakistani batting line-up with a five-wicket haul. Babar held strong as Pakistan kept losing wickets at regular intervals on the other end. The Pakistan skipper notched up a gritty fifty and is edging towards a well-deserved century in the game. However, Pakistan have only one wicket left and it remains to be seen if Babar will be able to reach the triple-figure mark. Also Read: 'One champion to another': Harbhajan lauds Babar Azam, Virat Kohli over heartfelt Twitter exchange While he is the fastest Asian to complete the milestone of 10,000 runs in international cricket, West Indies legend Viv Richards tops the overall list of batters who have been fastest to the feat. Richards completed the milestone in 206 innings followed by South African great Hashim Amla, who took 217 innings to reach 10,000 international runs. Fastest Player to reach 10000 runs in international cricket (in terms of innings Viv Richards - 206 Hashim Amla - 217 Brian Lara - 220 Joe Root - 222 Babar Azam - 228

Pakistan captain Babar Azam breaks Virat Kohli's record to achieve huge milestone

<p>Virat Kohli has been receiving messages of support from all corners amid criticism over his poor form for Team India. Kohli has struggled for consistency across formats and has not been able to notch up big scores. He has not scored an international century since November 2019 and is on the verge of completing 1,000 days without scoring a ton for Team India.</p>

<p>Kohli had an average campaign for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in IPL 2022 following which he was rested from the T20I series against South Africa at home. Kohli was expected to spark a turnaround with the willow in India's ongoing tour of England but he has failed to fire once again.</p>

<p>The batting maestro, who used to score centuries for fun at one stage in his career, has so far managed only 59 runs in his last five innings for India across formats against England amid questions over his spot in India's T20I team ahead of the T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia later this year.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/70-tons-is-no-small-feat-dont-understand-how-could-people-think-about-dropping-virat-kohli-shoaib-akhtar-498048">70 tons is no small feat, don't understand how could people think about dropping Kohli: Shoaib Akhtar</a></p>

<p>"Buddy, your career has had some of the best that have played the game only wish they could have done what you have(so far). Be proud, walk tall &amp; enjoy life. There’s way more than just the bubble of cricket out there. You’ll be back," wrote Pietersen in a post on Instagram.</p>

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<p>Kohli took notice of Pietersen's post and responded by dropping a heart emoji in the comments section. His wife and Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma also reacted to Pietersen's post for her husband and posted a heart emoji in the comments section.</p>

<p><img alt="Kohli Anushka" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2528a486-659a-4a82-aa28-e2692321d8c6" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Kohli%20Anushka%20comment.png" /></p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-responds-to-babar-azams-stay-strong-tweet-amid-his-lean-patch-for-team-india-497999">Virat Kohli responds to Babar Azam's tweet after Pakistan skipper lends support amid his lean patch</a></p>

<p>After failing to make an impact in the 2nd ODI against England in Nottingham where he was dismissed for 16 runs, Kohli will be eager to shut down his critics by notching up a big knock in the third and final ODI against the hosts on Sunday (July 17).</p>


Virat Kohli has been receiving messages of support from all corners amid criticism over his poor form for Team India. Kohli has struggled for consistency across formats and has not been able to notch up big scores.

Virat Kohli has been receiving messages of support from all corners amid criticism over his poor form for Team India. Kohli has struggled for consistency across formats and has not been able to notch up big scores. He has not scored an international century since November 2019 and is on the verge of completing 1,000 days without scoring a ton for Team India. Kohli had an average campaign for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in IPL 2022 following which he was rested from the T20I series against South Africa at home. Kohli was expected to spark a turnaround with the willow in India's ongoing tour of England but he has failed to fire once again. The batting maestro, who used to score centuries for fun at one stage in his career, has so far managed only 59 runs in his last five innings for India across formats against England amid questions over his spot in India's T20I team ahead of the T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia later this year. Also Read: 70 tons is no small feat, don't understand how could people think about dropping Kohli: Shoaib Akhtar "Buddy, your career has had some of the best that have played the game only wish they could have done what you have(so far). Be proud, walk tall & enjoy life. There’s way more than just the bubble of cricket out there. You’ll be back," wrote Pietersen in a post on Instagram. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kevin Pietersen MBE (@kevinpietersen) × Kohli took notice of Pietersen's post and responded by dropping a heart emoji in the comments section. His wife and Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma also reacted to Pietersen's post for her husband and posted a heart emoji in the comments section. Also Read: Virat Kohli responds to Babar Azam's tweet after Pakistan skipper lends support amid his lean patch After failing to make an impact in the 2nd ODI against England in Nottingham where he was dismissed for 16 runs, Kohli will be eager to shut down his critics by notching up a big knock in the third and final ODI against the hosts on Sunday (July 17).

Virat Kohli, Anushka Sharma respond after Kevin Pietersen sends message of support to former India captain

<p>Hardik Pandya enjoyed a dream run with his new team Gujarat Titans (GT) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 as he led the franchise to their maiden title in their debut season. Hardik was appointed as the captain of the Titans ahead of the new season after being roped in by GT in the players' draft. The star Indian all-rounder was released by his former side Mumbai Indians (MI) ahead of the mega auction.</p>

<p>Mumbai Indians' decision to let go of Pandya had left many in shock as he is the best all-rounder India have in white-ball cricket at present. Hardik had made his IPL debut for Mumbai Indians back in 2015 and played an instrumental role in their success with both the bat and the ball. He had not played for any other IPL team in his career before being released by MI.</p>

<p>However, MI's decision to release him proved to be a blessing in disguise for Pandya, who went on to inspire Gujarat Titans to a memorable IPL triumph in their maiden season. However, the all-rounder was not happy with MI's decision to release him and was left shocked when the franchise didn't retain him.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-responds-to-babar-azams-stay-strong-tweet-amid-his-lean-patch-for-team-india-497999">Kohli responds to Babar Azam's tweet after Pakistan skipper lends support amid his lean patch</a></p>

<p>Former India head coach Ravi Shastri recently revealed Pandya was left shocked when he was released by the five-time champions. However, the extra responsibility of leading the team at Titans did wonders for him in IPL 2022.</p>

<p>"It shocked him when he was not retained by Mumbai Indians," Shastri said in the commentary box during the 2nd ODI between India and England at Lord's on Thursday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It was tough... MI had Ishan Kishan, Rohit Sharna, Jasprit Bumrah, Suryakumar Yadav, and Hardik Pandya so they had to pick three out of those five. Ishan Kishan was obviously picked in the auction.</p>

<p>"He was picked by Gujarat Titans, where he was given the extra responsibility of captaining, which did him a world of good. When given responsibility, he's a completely different cricket as opposed to just batting and fielding," added the former India head coach.</p>

<p>MI had problems of plenty when it come to retentions ahead of IPL 2022 mega auction as they had a squad full of match-winners. The franchise decided to keep hold of skipper Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Suryakumar Yadav and Kieron Pollard as their 4 retentions while letting go of Pandya and Ishan Kishan among others.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/70-tons-is-no-small-feat-dont-understand-how-could-people-think-about-dropping-virat-kohli-shoaib-akhtar-498048">70 tons is no small feat, don't understand how could people think about dropping Kohli: Shoaib Akhtar</a></p>

<p>However, MI managed to buy back Ishan at the auction while Pandya was roped in by GT in the draft before the auction. Mumbai Indians endured a terrible campaign in IPL 2022 as they failed to qualify for the playoffs and finished at the bottom of the table losing 8 matches in a row at the start of the season.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Hardik Pandya enjoyed a dream run with his new team Gujarat Titans (GT) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 as he led the franchise to their maiden title in their debut season.

Hardik Pandya enjoyed a dream run with his new team Gujarat Titans (GT) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 as he led the franchise to their maiden title in their debut season. Hardik was appointed as the captain of the Titans ahead of the new season after being roped in by GT in the players' draft. The star Indian all-rounder was released by his former side Mumbai Indians (MI) ahead of the mega auction. Mumbai Indians' decision to let go of Pandya had left many in shock as he is the best all-rounder India have in white-ball cricket at present. Hardik had made his IPL debut for Mumbai Indians back in 2015 and played an instrumental role in their success with both the bat and the ball. He had not played for any other IPL team in his career before being released by MI. However, MI's decision to release him proved to be a blessing in disguise for Pandya, who went on to inspire Gujarat Titans to a memorable IPL triumph in their maiden season. However, the all-rounder was not happy with MI's decision to release him and was left shocked when the franchise didn't retain him. Also Read: Kohli responds to Babar Azam's tweet after Pakistan skipper lends support amid his lean patch Former India head coach Ravi Shastri recently revealed Pandya was left shocked when he was released by the five-time champions. However, the extra responsibility of leading the team at Titans did wonders for him in IPL 2022. "It shocked him when he was not retained by Mumbai Indians," Shastri said in the commentary box during the 2nd ODI between India and England at Lord's on Thursday. "It was tough... MI had Ishan Kishan, Rohit Sharna, Jasprit Bumrah, Suryakumar Yadav, and Hardik Pandya so they had to pick three out of those five. Ishan Kishan was obviously picked in the auction. "He was picked by Gujarat Titans, where he was given the extra responsibility of captaining, which did him a world of good. When given responsibility, he's a completely different cricket as opposed to just batting and fielding," added the former India head coach. MI had problems of plenty when it come to retentions ahead of IPL 2022 mega auction as they had a squad full of match-winners. The franchise decided to keep hold of skipper Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Suryakumar Yadav and Kieron Pollard as their 4 retentions while letting go of Pandya and Ishan Kishan among others. Also Read: 70 tons is no small feat, don't understand how could people think about dropping Kohli: Shoaib Akhtar However, MI managed to buy back Ishan at the auction while Pandya was roped in by GT in the draft before the auction. Mumbai Indians endured a terrible campaign in IPL 2022 as they failed to qualify for the playoffs and finished at the bottom of the table losing 8 matches in a row at the start of the season.

Hardik Pandya was shocked when Mumbai Indians decided not to retain him, reveals Ravi Shastri

<p>Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar has slammed Virat Kohli's critics and come out in defence of the senior India batter amid criticism from all corners over his poor form. Kohli has been facing the heat from fans, experts and former cricketers as he continues to struggle to deliver for the Indian team across all formats of the game. Kohli has been enduring a lean patch with the willow for a while now.</p>

<p>His last century in international cricket came over 900 days ago in November 2019. He has since failed to breach the triple-figure mark in any format of the game and has been stuck on 70 centuries in international cricket. Kohli was enjoying incredible consistency and was breaking records for fun at one point in his career but his form has dipped sharply over the last couple of years.</p>

<p>After an average campaign in IPL 2022, Kohli made his comeback for the Indian team in their ongoing tour of England and has failed to spark a turnaround. He has so far managed a shambolic 59 runs in his last 5 innings for India against England in what has been a disastrous tour for him with several former cricketers and experts questioning his spot in India's T20I team.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-responds-to-babar-azams-stay-strong-tweet-amid-his-lean-patch-for-team-india-497999">&nbsp;Virat Kohli responds to Babar Azam's tweet after Pakistan skipper lends support amid his lean patch</a></p>

<p>However, Kohi has found support from Akhtar, who believes the Indian star is one of the greatest players in the present era and has been one of the best batters in the world in the last ten years. Highlighting his 70 international centuries, Akhtar said it's no small feat and not everyone has the right to criticise Kohli.</p>

<p>"I am hearing a lot of criticism surrounding Virat Kohli. People are telling me that Kohli is over, he won't be able to do anything, and I tell them that Kohli is the greatest player in the world over the last 10 years. Now in the last 1-2 years, where apparently he has not been good enough, it is not like he has not scored runs," Akhtar said in a video on his YouTube channel.</p>

<p>"I don't understand how people could even think about the prospect of dropping Kohli. I respect Kapil Dev, and it is his opinion, he is a legend so he can say it, but no one else can say it. As a Pakistani, I support Kohli because scoring 70 hundreds is no small feat, only a great player can do this," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/1000-days-without-an-international-century-can-virat-kohli-avoid-unwanted-feat-in-3rd-odi-against-england-497948">1,000 days without an international century? Can Kohli avoid unwanted feat in 3rd ODI against England</a></p>

<p>Kohli has so far played 15 matches for India in 2022 and has scored 459 runs at an average of 25.50 across all three formats without a single century. He has 220 runs in 4 Tests, 158 runs in 7 ODIs and 81 runs in 4 T20Is for India so far this year. Kohli will be hoping to end the England tour on a high when India lock horns with the hosts in the final 3rd ODI on Sunday (July 17).</p>


Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar has slammed Virat Kohli's critics and come out in defence of the senior India batter amid criticism from all corners over his poor form.

Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar has slammed Virat Kohli's critics and come out in defence of the senior India batter amid criticism from all corners over his poor form. Kohli has been facing the heat from fans, experts and former cricketers as he continues to struggle to deliver for the Indian team across all formats of the game. Kohli has been enduring a lean patch with the willow for a while now. His last century in international cricket came over 900 days ago in November 2019. He has since failed to breach the triple-figure mark in any format of the game and has been stuck on 70 centuries in international cricket. Kohli was enjoying incredible consistency and was breaking records for fun at one point in his career but his form has dipped sharply over the last couple of years. After an average campaign in IPL 2022, Kohli made his comeback for the Indian team in their ongoing tour of England and has failed to spark a turnaround. He has so far managed a shambolic 59 runs in his last 5 innings for India against England in what has been a disastrous tour for him with several former cricketers and experts questioning his spot in India's T20I team. Also Read: Virat Kohli responds to Babar Azam's tweet after Pakistan skipper lends support amid his lean patch However, Kohi has found support from Akhtar, who believes the Indian star is one of the greatest players in the present era and has been one of the best batters in the world in the last ten years. Highlighting his 70 international centuries, Akhtar said it's no small feat and not everyone has the right to criticise Kohli. "I am hearing a lot of criticism surrounding Virat Kohli. People are telling me that Kohli is over, he won't be able to do anything, and I tell them that Kohli is the greatest player in the world over the last 10 years. Now in the last 1-2 years, where apparently he has not been good enough, it is not like he has not scored runs," Akhtar said in a video on his YouTube channel. "I don't understand how people could even think about the prospect of dropping Kohli. I respect Kapil Dev, and it is his opinion, he is a legend so he can say it, but no one else can say it. As a Pakistani, I support Kohli because scoring 70 hundreds is no small feat, only a great player can do this," he added. Also Read: 1,000 days without an international century? Can Kohli avoid unwanted feat in 3rd ODI against England Kohli has so far played 15 matches for India in 2022 and has scored 459 runs at an average of 25.50 across all three formats without a single century. He has 220 runs in 4 Tests, 158 runs in 7 ODIs and 81 runs in 4 T20Is for India so far this year. Kohli will be hoping to end the England tour on a high when India lock horns with the hosts in the final 3rd ODI on Sunday (July 17).

70 tons is no small feat, don't understand how could people think about dropping Virat Kohli: Shoaib Akhtar

<p>Indian superstar Virat Kohli has witnessed one of the worst possible dips in his career as he continues to struggle with the willow across formats in international cricket. Kohli's form has been far from best over the past couple of years as the batting maestro has failed to churn out runs consistently. One of the best batters of the present era, Kohli was once unstoppable with the bat and was scoring centuries for fun.</p>

<p>However, little did the Indian cricket fans know he would go without scoring one for over two years. Kohli's last international century for India&nbsp;came during the team's first-ever pink-ball Test match against Bangladesh in November 2019. He has since failed to reach the triple-figure mark in any format of the game.</p>

<p>Kohli now stands on the cusp of achieving an unwanted feat amid his lean patch as he might go 1,000 days without scoring a hundred. The former Indian captain scored his last hundred on November 23, 2019, and has already gone 960 days without scoring a century in international cricket.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/opinion-unfortunate-trolls-virat-kohli-owes-you-nothing-496965">Opinion | Unfortunate trolls, Virat Kohli owes you nothing</a></p>

<p>Kohli will be aiming to bring an end to his century drought when India lock horns with England in the third and final ODI of the ongoing three-match series. If he fails to end the deadlock in the third ODI at Old Trafford in Manchester, Kohli will go 1,000 days without an international century as he has been rested from India's upcoming limited-overs series against West Indies.</p>

<p>Kohli will only return to action during the Asia Cup which is scheduled to kick off on August 27. If the senior Indian batter fails to score a ton in the 3rd ODI against England, he will go more than 1,000 days without an international century for the Men in Blue.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-has-got-to-find-his-way-and-bcci-chief-sourav-ganguly-reacts-to-virat-kohlis-poor-form-497616">'He has got to find his way and....' - BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly reacts to Virat Kohli's poor form</a></p>

<p>The 33-year-old has not enjoyed the best of outings in the ongoing England tour of India so far. He has so far managed scores of 11, 20, 1,11 and 16 in his last five innings across formats and has flopped so far in England.</p>

<p>If Kohli manages to bounce back and score a ton in the final 3rd ODI, he will equal Ricky Ponting's record of 2nd most centuries in international cricket after the legendary Sachin Tendulkar, who tops the charts with 100 centuries to his name.</p>


Indian superstar Virat Kohli has witnessed one of the worst possible dips in his career as he continues to struggle with the willow across formats in international cricket.

Indian superstar Virat Kohli has witnessed one of the worst possible dips in his career as he continues to struggle with the willow across formats in international cricket. Kohli's form has been far from best over the past couple of years as the batting maestro has failed to churn out runs consistently. One of the best batters of the present era, Kohli was once unstoppable with the bat and was scoring centuries for fun. However, little did the Indian cricket fans know he would go without scoring one for over two years. Kohli's last international century for India came during the team's first-ever pink-ball Test match against Bangladesh in November 2019. He has since failed to reach the triple-figure mark in any format of the game. Kohli now stands on the cusp of achieving an unwanted feat amid his lean patch as he might go 1,000 days without scoring a hundred. The former Indian captain scored his last hundred on November 23, 2019, and has already gone 960 days without scoring a century in international cricket. Also Read: Opinion | Unfortunate trolls, Virat Kohli owes you nothing Kohli will be aiming to bring an end to his century drought when India lock horns with England in the third and final ODI of the ongoing three-match series. If he fails to end the deadlock in the third ODI at Old Trafford in Manchester, Kohli will go 1,000 days without an international century as he has been rested from India's upcoming limited-overs series against West Indies. Kohli will only return to action during the Asia Cup which is scheduled to kick off on August 27. If the senior Indian batter fails to score a ton in the 3rd ODI against England, he will go more than 1,000 days without an international century for the Men in Blue. Also Read: 'He has got to find his way and....' - BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly reacts to Virat Kohli's poor form The 33-year-old has not enjoyed the best of outings in the ongoing England tour of India so far. He has so far managed scores of 11, 20, 1,11 and 16 in his last five innings across formats and has flopped so far in England. If Kohli manages to bounce back and score a ton in the final 3rd ODI, he will equal Ricky Ponting's record of 2nd most centuries in international cricket after the legendary Sachin Tendulkar, who tops the charts with 100 centuries to his name.

1,000 days without an international century? Can Virat Kohli avoid unwanted feat in 3rd ODI against England

<p>Pakistan captain Babar Azam came up with a heartfelt gesture for Team India superstar Virat Kohi amid his ongoing lean patch in international cricket. Kohli has been struggling for consistency across formats and has failed to fire with the willow in India's ongoing tour of England. Despite having been backed by the team management constantly, Kohli has not managed to notch up big knocks to shut his critics amid widespread backlash over his form.</p>

<p>Amid his woeful form, Pakistan skipper Babar took to Twitter to lend support to the former India captain. Babar won hearts with his tweet for Kohli which read - "This too shall pass. Stay strong. #ViratKohli." He was lauded by many Indian fans and former cricketers for his nice gesture despite the rivalry between the two nations.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">This too shall pass. Stay strong. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ViratKohli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ViratKohli</a> <a href="https://t.co/ozr7BFFgXt">pic.twitter.com/ozr7BFFgXt</a></p>
— Babar Azam (@babarazam258) <a href="https://twitter.com/babarazam258/status/1547657073587933190?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 14, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Reacting to Babar's tweet for Kohli, former Pakistan all-rounder Shahid Afridi lauded the Pakistan captain and said he has sent across a great message. Afridi said cricket can play a huge role in improving the relations between India and Pakistan amid political tensions between the two countries.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-rohit-sharma-to-babar-azam-how-cricket-fraternity-has-reacted-to-virat-kohlis-poor-form-497683">From Rohit Sharma to Babar Azam: How cricket fraternity has reacted to Virat Kohli's poor form</a></p>

<p>However, he expressed disappointment over&nbsp;Kohli not responding to Babar's tweet for him and said it would have been a huge thing had Kohli replied to the message from the Pakistan skipper. Though he wants Kohli to reply to Babar's message, Afridi said he knew it won't happen.</p>

<p>"Be it cricket or any other sport, it improves relations (between countries). Athletes can do a much better job at it than politicians and a number of them are doing the same,"&nbsp;Afridi told&nbsp;Sports Central.</p>

<p>“Babar has given across a very good message. I don’t know if there has been a response from the other side. I think Virat should have responded by now. It would be a very big thing if there is a response to Babar’s tweet, but I don’t think that is going to happen," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-too-shall-pass-babar-azam-wins-hearts-with-his-tweet-for-virat-kohli-backs-him-to-end-lean-patch-497550">'This too shall pass' - Babar Azam wins hearts with his tweet for Virat Kohli, backs him to end lean patch</a></p>

<p>India and Pakistan share one of the greatest rivalries in cricket history but have not played a bilateral series against each other since 2013 owing to the political tensions between them. The arch-rivals continue to meet in only premier ICC tournaments.</p>


Pakistan captain Babar Azam came up with a heartfelt gesture for Team India superstar Virat Kohi amid his ongoing lean patch in international cricket. Kohli has been struggling for consistency across formats and has failed to fire with the willow in India's ongoing tour of England.

Pakistan captain Babar Azam came up with a heartfelt gesture for Team India superstar Virat Kohi amid his ongoing lean patch in international cricket. Kohli has been struggling for consistency across formats and has failed to fire with the willow in India's ongoing tour of England. Despite having been backed by the team management constantly, Kohli has not managed to notch up big knocks to shut his critics amid widespread backlash over his form. Amid his woeful form, Pakistan skipper Babar took to Twitter to lend support to the former India captain. Babar won hearts with his tweet for Kohli which read - "This too shall pass. Stay strong. #ViratKohli." He was lauded by many Indian fans and former cricketers for his nice gesture despite the rivalry between the two nations. This too shall pass. Stay strong. #ViratKohli pic.twitter.com/ozr7BFFgXt — Babar Azam (@babarazam258) July 14, 2022 × Reacting to Babar's tweet for Kohli, former Pakistan all-rounder Shahid Afridi lauded the Pakistan captain and said he has sent across a great message. Afridi said cricket can play a huge role in improving the relations between India and Pakistan amid political tensions between the two countries. Also Read: From Rohit Sharma to Babar Azam: How cricket fraternity has reacted to Virat Kohli's poor form However, he expressed disappointment over Kohli not responding to Babar's tweet for him and said it would have been a huge thing had Kohli replied to the message from the Pakistan skipper. Though he wants Kohli to reply to Babar's message, Afridi said he knew it won't happen. "Be it cricket or any other sport, it improves relations (between countries). Athletes can do a much better job at it than politicians and a number of them are doing the same," Afridi told Sports Central. “Babar has given across a very good message. I don’t know if there has been a response from the other side. I think Virat should have responded by now. It would be a very big thing if there is a response to Babar’s tweet, but I don’t think that is going to happen," he added. Also Read: 'This too shall pass' - Babar Azam wins hearts with his tweet for Virat Kohli, backs him to end lean patch India and Pakistan share one of the greatest rivalries in cricket history but have not played a bilateral series against each other since 2013 owing to the political tensions between them. The arch-rivals continue to meet in only premier ICC tournaments.

'Virat should have responded': Shahid Afridi reacts to Babar Azam's tweet for Kohli amid his woeful form

<p>Hosts Zimbabwe and the Netherlands filled the last two places for the Twenty20 World Cup in Australia by winning their qualifying tournament semi-finals in Bulawayo on Friday.</p>

<p>Zimbabwe beat Papua New Guinea by 27 runs after posting 199-5 in 20 overs, then restricting their opponents to 172-8. The Netherlands defeated the United States by seven wickets. Replying to an American total of 138 in 19.4 overs, the Dutch scored 139-3 with six balls to spare.</p>


Hosts Zimbabwe and the Netherlands filled the last two places for the Twenty20 World Cup in Australia by winning their qualifying tournament semi-finals in Bulawayo on Friday.

Hosts Zimbabwe and the Netherlands filled the last two places for the Twenty20 World Cup in Australia by winning their qualifying tournament semi-finals in Bulawayo on Friday. Zimbabwe beat Papua New Guinea by 27 runs after posting 199-5 in 20 overs, then restricting their opponents to 172-8. The Netherlands defeated the United States by seven wickets. Replying to an American total of 138 in 19.4 overs, the Dutch scored 139-3 with six balls to spare.

T20 World Cup: Zimbabwe, Netherlands qualify for marquee event Down Under

India and Rajasthan Royals' young star Dhruv Jurel shares his journey so far, the MS Dhoni policy which works wonders for him, and learnings from Kumar Sangakkara in IPL 2022.

EXCLUSIVE | I abide by MS Dhoni's 'control the controllables' policy: U-19 star Dhruv Jurel

<p>The Supreme Court on Friday said that it will hear next week the plea of the Board of Control for Cricket in India seeking to amend its constitution with regard to the tenure of its office bearers including President Sourav Ganguly and Secretary Jay Shah.</p>

<p>A bench of Chief Justice NV Ramana and Krishna Murari was told by senior advocate PS Patwalia, appearing for the BCCI, that their application was filed two years ago and direction was given by the court to list the matter after two weeks. "But then Covid happened and matter could not be listed. Please list this matter for urgent hearing because amendments to the constitution are in pipeline for two years now", he said.</p>

<p>Patwalia said the earlier order of the court says that amendment to the constitution can only be done with prior permission of the court. The bench said it will see that the matter is listed for next week. Earlier, the Justice RM Lodha led committee had recommended reforms in the BCCI which have been accepted by the top court.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-has-got-to-find-his-way-and-bcci-chief-sourav-ganguly-reacts-to-virat-kohlis-poor-form-497616">'He has got to find his way and....' - BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly reacts to Virat Kohli's poor form</a></strong></p>

<p>According to the recommendations, there should be a three-year cooling off period for the office bearers of the BCCI after a tenure of six years once a post comes to an end at the state cricket association or at the BCCI level.</p>

<p>The BCCI, in its proposed amendment, has sought abolition of cooling off period for its office bearers which would enable BCCI president Ganguly and secretary Shah to continue in office despite them having completed six years at respective state cricket associations.</p>

<p>The constitution of BCCI, which has been approved by the top court stipulates, a mandatory three-year cooling off period for anyone who had served two consecutive terms of three years each in state cricket association or in BCCI.</p>

<p>While Ganguly was an office bearer in the Cricket Association of Bengal, Shah had served in the Gujarat Cricket Association.</p>


The Supreme Court on Friday said that it will hear next week the plea of the Board of Control for Cricket in India seeking to amend its constitution with regard to the tenure of its office bearers including President Sourav Ganguly and Secretary Jay Shah.

The Supreme Court on Friday said that it will hear next week the plea of the Board of Control for Cricket in India seeking to amend its constitution with regard to the tenure of its office bearers including President Sourav Ganguly and Secretary Jay Shah. A bench of Chief Justice NV Ramana and Krishna Murari was told by senior advocate PS Patwalia, appearing for the BCCI, that their application was filed two years ago and direction was given by the court to list the matter after two weeks. "But then Covid happened and matter could not be listed. Please list this matter for urgent hearing because amendments to the constitution are in pipeline for two years now", he said. Patwalia said the earlier order of the court says that amendment to the constitution can only be done with prior permission of the court. The bench said it will see that the matter is listed for next week. Earlier, the Justice RM Lodha led committee had recommended reforms in the BCCI which have been accepted by the top court. ALSO READ | 'He has got to find his way and....' - BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly reacts to Virat Kohli's poor form According to the recommendations, there should be a three-year cooling off period for the office bearers of the BCCI after a tenure of six years once a post comes to an end at the state cricket association or at the BCCI level. The BCCI, in its proposed amendment, has sought abolition of cooling off period for its office bearers which would enable BCCI president Ganguly and secretary Shah to continue in office despite them having completed six years at respective state cricket associations. The constitution of BCCI, which has been approved by the top court stipulates, a mandatory three-year cooling off period for anyone who had served two consecutive terms of three years each in state cricket association or in BCCI. While Ganguly was an office bearer in the Cricket Association of Bengal, Shah had served in the Gujarat Cricket Association.

Supreme Court set to hear BCCI plea seeking to amend its constitution next week

From Rohit Sharma to Babar Azam: How cricket fraternity has reacted to Virat Kohli's poor form

EXCLUSIVE: I abide by MS Dhoni's 'control the controllables' policy, says U-19 star Dhruv Jurel

<p>Umran Maik has been fast-tracked into the Indian team after his exploits for Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) but has failed to impress in a few opportunities that he has managed to get for Team India so far. Umran was included in India's squad for the South Africa T20I series at home following the conclusion of IPL 2022 but failed to get a game.</p>

<p>He made his dream debut for India in the first T20I against Ireland in Dublin last month and played both games in the series. The pace sensation was also part of India's playing in the 3rd T20I of the recently-concluded three-match T20I series against England.</p>

<p>In the three T20Is he has played for India so far, Umran has conceded 129 runs while managing 4 wickets. In the third T20I against England, he was taken to the cleaners by the host batters in Nottingham and ended up conceding 56 runs off his 4 overs in the game.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-cheteshwar-pujara-turns-leg-spinner-for-sussex-takes-over-bowling-duties-in-county-cricket-497086">WATCH -&nbsp;Pujara turns leg-spinner for Sussex, takes over bowling duties in county cricket</a></p>

<p>Speaking about Umran's poor show with the ball in his first few games for India, former India opener Aakash Chopra said the young pacer is still not ready for international cricket despite being an outstanding talent. Umran is India's quickest bowler at present and has the ability to consistently clock over 150 kmph.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-skipper-rohit-sharma-surpasses-kane-williamson-to-achieve-rare-feat-in-1st-odi-against-england-497028">Rohit Sharma surpasses Kane Williamson to achieve rare feat in 1st ODI against England</a></p>

<p>However, he is still not a finished product and has several areas to work on and improve before he can be a regular feature in the Indian playing XI. Chopra believes Umran has something which is a rare commodity - pace but needs time to get to the level where he can play for India regularly.</p>

<p>"Umran Malik has something that others don’t have extreme pace. You can’t teach that to anyone. You can teach everything else line and length, yorker, bouncer, slower ones. But you can’t teach someone how to bowl with speed. You are either born a pacer or born a medium-pacer,” said Chopra speaking in a video on his YouTube channel.</p>

<p>“No doubt, he has the pace. But what I feel is that Umran Malik is not ready for international cricket as of now. It is very simple, he needs time. He hasn’t played a lot of cricket and so he is still raw,” he added.</p>


Umran Maik has been fast-tracked into the Indian team after his exploits for Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) but has failed to impress in a few opportunities that he has managed to get for Team India so far.

Umran Maik has been fast-tracked into the Indian team after his exploits for Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) but has failed to impress in a few opportunities that he has managed to get for Team India so far. Umran was included in India's squad for the South Africa T20I series at home following the conclusion of IPL 2022 but failed to get a game. He made his dream debut for India in the first T20I against Ireland in Dublin last month and played both games in the series. The pace sensation was also part of India's playing in the 3rd T20I of the recently-concluded three-match T20I series against England. In the three T20Is he has played for India so far, Umran has conceded 129 runs while managing 4 wickets. In the third T20I against England, he was taken to the cleaners by the host batters in Nottingham and ended up conceding 56 runs off his 4 overs in the game. Also Read: WATCH - Pujara turns leg-spinner for Sussex, takes over bowling duties in county cricket Speaking about Umran's poor show with the ball in his first few games for India, former India opener Aakash Chopra said the young pacer is still not ready for international cricket despite being an outstanding talent. Umran is India's quickest bowler at present and has the ability to consistently clock over 150 kmph. Also Read: Rohit Sharma surpasses Kane Williamson to achieve rare feat in 1st ODI against England However, he is still not a finished product and has several areas to work on and improve before he can be a regular feature in the Indian playing XI. Chopra believes Umran has something which is a rare commodity - pace but needs time to get to the level where he can play for India regularly. "Umran Malik has something that others don’t have extreme pace. You can’t teach that to anyone. You can teach everything else line and length, yorker, bouncer, slower ones. But you can’t teach someone how to bowl with speed. You are either born a pacer or born a medium-pacer,” said Chopra speaking in a video on his YouTube channel. “No doubt, he has the pace. But what I feel is that Umran Malik is not ready for international cricket as of now. It is very simple, he needs time. He hasn’t played a lot of cricket and so he is still raw,” he added.

'He needs time': Former India opener feels Umran Malik is not ready for international cricket at present

<p>India captain Rohit Sharma notched up a sublime fifty as the tourists thrashed England by 10 wickets after a career-best performance of 6-19 by Jasprit Bumrah in the first one-day international of the three-match series at the Oval on Tuesday.<br />
<br />
Rohit (76 not out) and fellow opener Shikhar Dhawan (31 not out) made light work of England`s 110, knocking off the victory target with 31.2 overs to spare. Earlier, England had a horror start after being put in to bat when Bumrah rattled Jason Roy`s stumps with an in-swinger and then deceived Joe Root two balls later with a delivery that nipped away. Both players failed to get off the mark.<br />
<br />
Ben Stokes also perished for a golden duck in the following over, edging behind off Mohammed Shami (3-31), before Bumrah accounted for Jonny Bairstow (7) and Liam Livingstone (0) to leave England reeling at 26-5 in overcast conditions.</p>

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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eng-vs-ind-jasprit-bumrah-wreaks-havoc-achieves-best-bowling-figures-by-an-indian-in-1st-odi-496755"><strong>ENG vs IND: Jasprit Bumrah wreaks havoc, achieves massive feat by an Indian bowler in 1st ODI</strong></a></p>

<p>Captain Jos Buttler (30) and Moeen Ali (14) led a brief recovery but both were dismissed in quick succession before a 35-run ninth-wicket stand between David Willey (21) and Brydon Carse (15) pushed England past 100.<br />
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The home side were eventually bowled out in 25.2 overs for their lowest total against India in 50-over cricket. Their previous lowest - 125 - came at Jaipur in 2006.<br />
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The second match of the series takes place at Lord`s on Thursday.</p>


India captain Rohit Sharma notched up a sublime fifty as the tourists thrashed England by 10 wickets after a career-best performance of 6-19 by Jasprit Bumrah in the first one-day international of the three-match series at the Oval on Tuesday.

India captain Rohit Sharma notched up a sublime fifty as the tourists thrashed England by 10 wickets after a career-best performance of 6-19 by Jasprit Bumrah in the first one-day international of the three-match series at the Oval on Tuesday. Rohit (76 not out) and fellow opener Shikhar Dhawan (31 not out) made light work of England`s 110, knocking off the victory target with 31.2 overs to spare. Earlier, England had a horror start after being put in to bat when Bumrah rattled Jason Roy`s stumps with an in-swinger and then deceived Joe Root two balls later with a delivery that nipped away. Both players failed to get off the mark. Ben Stokes also perished for a golden duck in the following over, edging behind off Mohammed Shami (3-31), before Bumrah accounted for Jonny Bairstow (7) and Liam Livingstone (0) to leave England reeling at 26-5 in overcast conditions. × ALSO READ | ENG vs IND: Jasprit Bumrah wreaks havoc, achieves massive feat by an Indian bowler in 1st ODI Captain Jos Buttler (30) and Moeen Ali (14) led a brief recovery but both were dismissed in quick succession before a 35-run ninth-wicket stand between David Willey (21) and Brydon Carse (15) pushed England past 100. The home side were eventually bowled out in 25.2 overs for their lowest total against India in 50-over cricket. Their previous lowest - 125 - came at Jaipur in 2006. The second match of the series takes place at Lord`s on Thursday.

1st ODI: Rohit Sharma's Team India hammer England by 10 wickets after Jasprit Bumrah heroics

<p>Cheteshwar Pujara has returned to county cricket and is currently playing for his team Sussex in the English domestic circuit after representing India in the one-off fifth Test against England at Edgbaston earlier this month. Pujara was part of the Indian team which lost the rescheduled Test by 7 runs to draw the series 2-2 against the hosts.</p>

<p>As Pujara made his comeback for Sussex in their clash against Leicestershire, the star batter decided to roll over his arm and bowl some leg-spin for his team. Sussex shared a video on their social media accounts of Pujara bowling against the Leicestershire batters during their innings on Wednesday.</p>

<p>Pujara bowled one over during the game and conceded 8 runs off it without taking a wicket. It was a rare occasion as Pujara refrains from bowling too often in both international and domestic cricket. While he has bowled 41.5 overs in first-class cricket with six wickets to his name, the Indian batter has bowled just one over in Tests for Team India.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">An over of <a href="https://twitter.com/cheteshwar1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@cheteshwar1</a> bowling. <a href="https://t.co/I4PdyeCxCx">pic.twitter.com/I4PdyeCxCx</a></p>
— Sussex Cricket (@SussexCCC) <a href="https://twitter.com/SussexCCC/status/1547230399574810624?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 13, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-cant-be-dropped-straightaway-ashish-nehra-backs-under-fire-india-batter-amid-form-concerns-497041">Kohli can't be dropped straightaway: Nehra backs under-fire India batter amid form concerns</a></p>

<p>The video of Pujara's bowling in the county game for Sussex has left many Indian cricket fans in awe of the senior batter as they have rarely seen him bowl. Pujara had earlier scored 46 runs with the bat for Sussex during their first innings to help his team post a big total of 588 runs on the board.</p>

<p>Pujara had joined Sussex earlier this year after he went unsold at the Indian Premier League (IPL) auction. He had also been dropped from the Indian Test team and the county stint proved to be a game-changer for the right-hand batter as he managed to bounce back to form and went on to pile on&nbsp;720 runs in just 8 innings for Sussex.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-skipper-rohit-sharma-surpasses-kane-williamson-to-achieve-rare-feat-in-1st-odi-against-england-497028">Rohit Sharma surpasses Kane Williamson to achieve rare feat in 1st ODI against England</a></p>

<p>He managed to make his comeback to the Indian Test team on the basis of his performances in county cricket and was part of India's playing XI for the one-off fifth Test against England where he notched up a half-century in the second innings. Pujara will continue to play for Sussex for the upcoming few months as India's next Test assignment is in September this year.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Cheteshwar Pujara has returned to county cricket and is currently playing for his team Sussex in the English domestic circuit after representing India in the one-off fifth Test against England at Edgbaston earlier this month.

Cheteshwar Pujara has returned to county cricket and is currently playing for his team Sussex in the English domestic circuit after representing India in the one-off fifth Test against England at Edgbaston earlier this month. Pujara was part of the Indian team which lost the rescheduled Test by 7 runs to draw the series 2-2 against the hosts. As Pujara made his comeback for Sussex in their clash against Leicestershire, the star batter decided to roll over his arm and bowl some leg-spin for his team. Sussex shared a video on their social media accounts of Pujara bowling against the Leicestershire batters during their innings on Wednesday. Pujara bowled one over during the game and conceded 8 runs off it without taking a wicket. It was a rare occasion as Pujara refrains from bowling too often in both international and domestic cricket. While he has bowled 41.5 overs in first-class cricket with six wickets to his name, the Indian batter has bowled just one over in Tests for Team India. An over of @cheteshwar1 bowling. pic.twitter.com/I4PdyeCxCx — Sussex Cricket (@SussexCCC) July 13, 2022 × Also Read: Kohli can't be dropped straightaway: Nehra backs under-fire India batter amid form concerns The video of Pujara's bowling in the county game for Sussex has left many Indian cricket fans in awe of the senior batter as they have rarely seen him bowl. Pujara had earlier scored 46 runs with the bat for Sussex during their first innings to help his team post a big total of 588 runs on the board. Pujara had joined Sussex earlier this year after he went unsold at the Indian Premier League (IPL) auction. He had also been dropped from the Indian Test team and the county stint proved to be a game-changer for the right-hand batter as he managed to bounce back to form and went on to pile on 720 runs in just 8 innings for Sussex. Also Read: Rohit Sharma surpasses Kane Williamson to achieve rare feat in 1st ODI against England He managed to make his comeback to the Indian Test team on the basis of his performances in county cricket and was part of India's playing XI for the one-off fifth Test against England where he notched up a half-century in the second innings. Pujara will continue to play for Sussex for the upcoming few months as India's next Test assignment is in September this year.

WATCH: Cheteshwar Pujara turns leg-spinner for Sussex, takes over bowling duties in county cricket

<p>India thrashed England by ten wickets in the first ODI at the Kennington Oval in London on Tuesday (July 12) to get off to a winning start in the three-match series. Jasprit Bumrah ran riot with the ball as he picked up a six-wicket haul to dismantle the England batting line-up after the hosts lost the toss and were asked to bat first in the game. Bumrah picked up a six-wicket haul to return with the best figures by an Indian bowler in England in ODIs.</p>

<p>England were bundled out for a paltry 110 before Indian skipper Rohit Sharma led from the front during the run-chase and played a brilliant knock of unbeaten 76 off 58 balls. He was well supported by Shikhar Dhawan, who remained unbeaten on 31 off 54 balls as the opening duo chased down the target inside just 18.4 overs.</p>

<p>Rohit's 76-run knock was laced with six fours and five sixes and it helped the Indian captain surpass New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson to achieve a rare feat in ODIs. The Hitman has now become the highest run-getter in England as a visiting batter in ODIs, pipping Williamson on the elite list.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eng-vs-ind-hitman-on-a-roll-rohit-sharma-breaks-plethora-of-records-in-1st-odi-496921">Hitman on a roll! Rohit Sharma breaks plethora of records in 1st ODI</a></p>

<p>Rohit now has 1411 runs in 25 ODI innings in England which is the highest number of runs scored by any visiting batter in the country in the fifty-over format. Williamson is at the second spot with 1393 runs in 23 innings. Rohit also broke a plethora of other records during the game with his impressive half-century.</p>

<p>Rohit and Dhawan put on an unbeaten stand of 114 runs in the game to propel India to a comprehensive victory and etch their name into record books. The duo became only the 4th opening pair in the world to score over 5,000 runs together in ODIs.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/that-will-stay-with-me-forever-brett-lee-reveals-virat-kohlis-special-gesture-for-his-son-496976">'That will stay with me forever': Brett Lee reveals Virat Kohli's special gesture for his son</a></p>

<p>Rohit now also has the most number of half-centuries by a visiting batter in ODIs in England. He has scored a total of seven fifties in the country which is the highest by any visiting batter in England. The Hitman also completed the milestone of hitting 250 sixes in ODIs during his enthralling knock to become the first Indian to achieve the feat.</p>


India thrashed England by ten wickets in the first ODI at the Kennington Oval in London on Tuesday (July 12) to get off to a winning start in the three-match series.

India thrashed England by ten wickets in the first ODI at the Kennington Oval in London on Tuesday (July 12) to get off to a winning start in the three-match series. Jasprit Bumrah ran riot with the ball as he picked up a six-wicket haul to dismantle the England batting line-up after the hosts lost the toss and were asked to bat first in the game. Bumrah picked up a six-wicket haul to return with the best figures by an Indian bowler in England in ODIs. England were bundled out for a paltry 110 before Indian skipper Rohit Sharma led from the front during the run-chase and played a brilliant knock of unbeaten 76 off 58 balls. He was well supported by Shikhar Dhawan, who remained unbeaten on 31 off 54 balls as the opening duo chased down the target inside just 18.4 overs. Rohit's 76-run knock was laced with six fours and five sixes and it helped the Indian captain surpass New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson to achieve a rare feat in ODIs. The Hitman has now become the highest run-getter in England as a visiting batter in ODIs, pipping Williamson on the elite list. Also Read: Hitman on a roll! Rohit Sharma breaks plethora of records in 1st ODI Rohit now has 1411 runs in 25 ODI innings in England which is the highest number of runs scored by any visiting batter in the country in the fifty-over format. Williamson is at the second spot with 1393 runs in 23 innings. Rohit also broke a plethora of other records during the game with his impressive half-century. Rohit and Dhawan put on an unbeaten stand of 114 runs in the game to propel India to a comprehensive victory and etch their name into record books. The duo became only the 4th opening pair in the world to score over 5,000 runs together in ODIs. Also Read: 'That will stay with me forever': Brett Lee reveals Virat Kohli's special gesture for his son Rohit now also has the most number of half-centuries by a visiting batter in ODIs in England. He has scored a total of seven fifties in the country which is the highest by any visiting batter in England. The Hitman also completed the milestone of hitting 250 sixes in ODIs during his enthralling knock to become the first Indian to achieve the feat.

Indian skipper Rohit Sharma surpasses Kane Williamson to achieve rare feat in 1st ODI against England

<p>Indian skipper Virat Kohli might be one of the fiercest competitors on the pitch but he remains a calm and composed character off the field. Kohli rarely disappoints his fans and is often seen obliging for pictures and autographs with them. One of the best batters of the current era, Kohli once came up with a special gesture for Australian legend Brett Lee's son, who is a huge fan of the Indian star.</p>

<p>Lee recently opened up on an incident from the past when a special gesture from Kohli for his son touched his heart. Lee recalled he was commentating during a Test match in India when he met with Kohli and the duo spoke about a range of things from their rivalry in cricket to life in general.</p>

<p>Lee told Kohli during the interaction that his son Preston was a fan of him and that he was his favourite player. Kohli sent a Test shirt for Lee's son Preston which was signed under his name. The Australian legend reveals the shirt gifted to his son by Kohli still hangs up in his room.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eng-vs-ind-after-missing-series-opener-virat-kohli-likely-to-skip-2nd-odi-with-injury-concerns-report-496967">After missing series opener, Virat Kohli likely to skip 2nd ODI with injury concerns - Report</a></p>

<p>"One special moment that will stay with me forever was when India were playing a Test match in India. I was commentating on the field and I saw Kohli out in the middle. We were talking, laughing and sharing moments about the times we have played against each other," Lee said in a video shared on his official YouTube channel.</p>

<p>"I said 'my son Preston thinks you are the best thing in slice, already loves you and you're his favourite player'. He was like, really? I said, yeah he loves your cover drive. After the Test match finished, I was presented with a Test shirt: VK captain and Kohli had signed an address to Preston. To this day, the shirt hangs up in his room," he recalled.</p>

<p>Lee and Kohli didn't fce each other much as the Australian great was in the final lap of his career when Kohli was breaking on to the scene. However, the duo did came across each other on a few ocassions and managed to get the better of each other.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eng-vs-ind-hitman-on-a-roll-rohit-sharma-breaks-plethora-of-records-in-1st-odi-496921">ENG vs IND: Hitman on a roll! Rohit Sharma breaks plethora of records in 1st ODI</a></p>

<p>Kohli is currently in England with the Indian team and has been enduring a lean patch for a while now. He has struggled to score runs consistently and his spot in the T20I side has been questioned by several former cricketers and experts. However, Kohli has been backed by the Indian team management and will be hopeful of bouncing back soon.</p>


Indian skipper Virat Kohli might be one of the fiercest competitors on the pitch but he remains a calm and composed character off the field. Kohli rarely disappoints his fans and is often seen obliging for pictures and autographs with them.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli might be one of the fiercest competitors on the pitch but he remains a calm and composed character off the field. Kohli rarely disappoints his fans and is often seen obliging for pictures and autographs with them. One of the best batters of the current era, Kohli once came up with a special gesture for Australian legend Brett Lee's son, who is a huge fan of the Indian star. Lee recently opened up on an incident from the past when a special gesture from Kohli for his son touched his heart. Lee recalled he was commentating during a Test match in India when he met with Kohli and the duo spoke about a range of things from their rivalry in cricket to life in general. Lee told Kohli during the interaction that his son Preston was a fan of him and that he was his favourite player. Kohli sent a Test shirt for Lee's son Preston which was signed under his name. The Australian legend reveals the shirt gifted to his son by Kohli still hangs up in his room. Also Read: After missing series opener, Virat Kohli likely to skip 2nd ODI with injury concerns - Report "One special moment that will stay with me forever was when India were playing a Test match in India. I was commentating on the field and I saw Kohli out in the middle. We were talking, laughing and sharing moments about the times we have played against each other," Lee said in a video shared on his official YouTube channel. "I said 'my son Preston thinks you are the best thing in slice, already loves you and you're his favourite player'. He was like, really? I said, yeah he loves your cover drive. After the Test match finished, I was presented with a Test shirt: VK captain and Kohli had signed an address to Preston. To this day, the shirt hangs up in his room," he recalled. Lee and Kohli didn't fce each other much as the Australian great was in the final lap of his career when Kohli was breaking on to the scene. However, the duo did came across each other on a few ocassions and managed to get the better of each other. Also Read: ENG vs IND: Hitman on a roll! Rohit Sharma breaks plethora of records in 1st ODI Kohli is currently in England with the Indian team and has been enduring a lean patch for a while now. He has struggled to score runs consistently and his spot in the T20I side has been questioned by several former cricketers and experts. However, Kohli has been backed by the Indian team management and will be hopeful of bouncing back soon.

'That will stay with me forever': Brett Lee reveals Virat Kohli's special gesture for his son

<p>Indian cricket legends who are performing poorly receive all the remarks. Whether it was Sachin, Ganguly, or Dhoni, everyone received criticism when they weren't doing well. Virat Kohli, one of the best batters of the modern age, is also on this list of legends.</p>

<p>In all formats of the game, Kohli has hit 70 hundreds, but he hasn't in the past three years. In a T20I game against the West Indies in December 2019, he had a best score of 94 not out.</p>

<p>At a time when Kohli is receiving ruthless trolling because his performance has not been up to par, one thing to keep in mind is that trolls never target celebrities for their poor performance alone.</p>

<p>Actress Anushka Sharma, then girlfriend of Kohli, was blamed for the Indian team's elimination from the cricket World Cup, despite Kohli's strong performance in the 2015 World Cup.</p>

<p>And in a statement, Virat Kohli said that "the stuff that happened after the World Cup semi-final, the way people reacted towards my personal life and Anushka in particular, was really disrespectful. I want to put this out in public because at the human level, I was really hurt,".</p>

<p>The 'online India' is changing, and it's for the worse this time. We once aimed to be a centre of information for the entire world, but we are now deteriorating into a sewer of gleeful ignorance, haughtiness, and violent trolling. View the timeline of your Twitter account.</p>

<p>It will be controlled by young, incensed internet bundle users who take joy in the label of "Troll." It would seem that they would exchange any sense of sanity, empathy, and common civility for a few likes and retweets.</p>

<p>I think we've lost sight of the fact that civility is crucial to democracy somewhere. When we speak and express without using basic research and critical thinking, we as a country violate our constitutional rights to free speech and expression.</p>

<p>The way ideas are expressed regarding cricket is one area where this trend is most obvious. Sometimes, cricket fans have been described as "toxic" by people due to a combination of conceit and ignorance.</p>

<p>Fans are certainly entitled to their opinions and criticism, but it is indefensibly rude to constantly disparage the cricket teams of countries on the basis of sociopolitical issues in those nations.</p>

<p>To take matters to an unprecedented level of travesty, we have started abusing and harassing our own players now. Idiotically named cliques like "Rohitians" and "Viratians" regularly go at each other, and even target the families of these cricketers who, in all fairness, owe us next to nothing.</p>

<p>The one man who is bearing the brunt of this new trend the most is Virat Kohli. The former Indian captain, who was once hailed as the nation’s biggest star, is now being trolled almost every day.</p>

<p>Cricket players are occasionally kept in teams not just because of their particular skills but also because of their experience and competitive spirit.</p>

<p>Cricket is not just about a player's individual effectiveness as a batter or bowler; a player's improved cricketing sense also greatly benefits the team. Dhoni's cricket acumen, for instance, has benefited Team India. Kohli was not only one of the best batters, but he was also a successful skipper and a good fielder.</p>

<p>In difficult circumstances, his experience aids Team India.</p>

<p>It is well known that, by his own high standards, he has struggled to impress with the bat over the last three years, but to those who wish death and misery upon him for this reason, I ask a question.</p>

<p>How will you feel if you are sworn at and ridiculed if you fail your NEET, JEE or UPSC exams twice or thrice? Would you expect support, or a summary trial and execution?</p>

<p>Expression is simple. The challenging aspect is thinking before speaking. You owe Virat Kohli nothing. Adjust to it. If you mock him unnecessarily or use foul language, all you come off as is a disgruntled person who will never amount to anything more than the 100 likes and 200 retweets that your terrible words garner.</p>

<p><strong><em>(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)</em></strong></p>

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Indian cricket legends who are performing poorly receive all the remarks. Whether it was Sachin, Ganguly, or Dhoni, everyone received criticism when they weren't doing well.

Indian cricket legends who are performing poorly receive all the remarks. Whether it was Sachin, Ganguly, or Dhoni, everyone received criticism when they weren't doing well. Virat Kohli, one of the best batters of the modern age, is also on this list of legends. In all formats of the game, Kohli has hit 70 hundreds, but he hasn't in the past three years. In a T20I game against the West Indies in December 2019, he had a best score of 94 not out. At a time when Kohli is receiving ruthless trolling because his performance has not been up to par, one thing to keep in mind is that trolls never target celebrities for their poor performance alone. Actress Anushka Sharma, then girlfriend of Kohli, was blamed for the Indian team's elimination from the cricket World Cup, despite Kohli's strong performance in the 2015 World Cup. And in a statement, Virat Kohli said that "the stuff that happened after the World Cup semi-final, the way people reacted towards my personal life and Anushka in particular, was really disrespectful. I want to put this out in public because at the human level, I was really hurt,". The 'online India' is changing, and it's for the worse this time. We once aimed to be a centre of information for the entire world, but we are now deteriorating into a sewer of gleeful ignorance, haughtiness, and violent trolling. View the timeline of your Twitter account. It will be controlled by young, incensed internet bundle users who take joy in the label of "Troll." It would seem that they would exchange any sense of sanity, empathy, and common civility for a few likes and retweets. I think we've lost sight of the fact that civility is crucial to democracy somewhere. When we speak and express without using basic research and critical thinking, we as a country violate our constitutional rights to free speech and expression. The way ideas are expressed regarding cricket is one area where this trend is most obvious. Sometimes, cricket fans have been described as "toxic" by people due to a combination of conceit and ignorance. Fans are certainly entitled to their opinions and criticism, but it is indefensibly rude to constantly disparage the cricket teams of countries on the basis of sociopolitical issues in those nations. To take matters to an unprecedented level of travesty, we have started abusing and harassing our own players now. Idiotically named cliques like "Rohitians" and "Viratians" regularly go at each other, and even target the families of these cricketers who, in all fairness, owe us next to nothing. The one man who is bearing the brunt of this new trend the most is Virat Kohli. The former Indian captain, who was once hailed as the nation’s biggest star, is now being trolled almost every day. Cricket players are occasionally kept in teams not just because of their particular skills but also because of their experience and competitive spirit. Cricket is not just about a player's individual effectiveness as a batter or bowler; a player's improved cricketing sense also greatly benefits the team. Dhoni's cricket acumen, for instance, has benefited Team India. Kohli was not only one of the best batters, but he was also a successful skipper and a good fielder. In difficult circumstances, his experience aids Team India. It is well known that, by his own high standards, he has struggled to impress with the bat over the last three years, but to those who wish death and misery upon him for this reason, I ask a question. How will you feel if you are sworn at and ridiculed if you fail your NEET, JEE or UPSC exams twice or thrice? Would you expect support, or a summary trial and execution? Expression is simple. The challenging aspect is thinking before speaking. You owe Virat Kohli nothing. Adjust to it. If you mock him unnecessarily or use foul language, all you come off as is a disgruntled person who will never amount to anything more than the 100 likes and 200 retweets that your terrible words garner. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Opinion | Unfortunate trolls, Virat Kohli owes you nothing

<p>South Africa have withdrawn from the one-day international series with Australia in January after host board Cricket Australia (CA) was unable to accommodate a request to reschedule. Cricket South Africa (CSA) had asked to shift the series, which was scheduled for Hobart (Jan. 12), Sydney (Jan. 14) and Perth (Jan. 17), as it clashes with their new domestic Twenty20 competition.</p>

<p>"Unfortunately, due to the congested international schedule including the ICC Men's T20 World Cup, there are no alternative dates available," CA said in a statement on Wednesday. CA said South Africa had agreed that Australia would be awarded the competition points, pending approval from the International Cricket Council.</p>

<p>"CSA offered four options (for new dates). Unfortunately, and to our disappointment, none of these were acceptable to Cricket Australia," CSA Chief Executive Officer Pholetsi Moseki said in a statement on Wednesday. "As difficult as this decision has been, the long-term sustainability of our new T20 League is reliant on having all our domestic players available."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ukraine-hopeful-of-icc-membership-for-game-to-survive-in-war-torn-country-496908"><strong>Ukraine hopeful of ICC membership for game to survive in war-torn country</strong></a></p>

<p>South Africa`s forfeit could affect their chances of qualifying directly for next year's one-day World Cup in India. The Proteas are 11th in the World Cup Super League standings, with only the top seven teams apart from hosts India to qualify directly for the 10-team tournament.</p>

<p>"We are confident that our in-form Proteas team will garner the requisite points through the remaining games to secure automatic qualification," Moseki said. South Africa`s test team are scheduled to tour Australia for a three-match series starting in Brisbane on Dec. 17.</p>

<p>Australia pulled out of their test tour of South Africa last year citing heath risks amid the COVID-19 pandemic, a decision greeted by disappointment and frustration by Cricket South Africa.</p>


South Africa have withdrawn from the one-day international series with Australia in January after host board Cricket Australia (CA) was unable to accommodate a request to reschedule.

South Africa have withdrawn from the one-day international series with Australia in January after host board Cricket Australia (CA) was unable to accommodate a request to reschedule. Cricket South Africa (CSA) had asked to shift the series, which was scheduled for Hobart (Jan. 12), Sydney (Jan. 14) and Perth (Jan. 17), as it clashes with their new domestic Twenty20 competition. "Unfortunately, due to the congested international schedule including the ICC Men's T20 World Cup, there are no alternative dates available," CA said in a statement on Wednesday. CA said South Africa had agreed that Australia would be awarded the competition points, pending approval from the International Cricket Council. "CSA offered four options (for new dates). Unfortunately, and to our disappointment, none of these were acceptable to Cricket Australia," CSA Chief Executive Officer Pholetsi Moseki said in a statement on Wednesday. "As difficult as this decision has been, the long-term sustainability of our new T20 League is reliant on having all our domestic players available." ALSO READ | Ukraine hopeful of ICC membership for game to survive in war-torn country South Africa`s forfeit could affect their chances of qualifying directly for next year's one-day World Cup in India. The Proteas are 11th in the World Cup Super League standings, with only the top seven teams apart from hosts India to qualify directly for the 10-team tournament. "We are confident that our in-form Proteas team will garner the requisite points through the remaining games to secure automatic qualification," Moseki said. South Africa`s test team are scheduled to tour Australia for a three-match series starting in Brisbane on Dec. 17. Australia pulled out of their test tour of South Africa last year citing heath risks amid the COVID-19 pandemic, a decision greeted by disappointment and frustration by Cricket South Africa.

South Africa pull out of Australia ODI series, putting 2023 World Cup qualification in a fix

<p>Pakistan captain Babar Azam is one of the best batters in the world at present. He has been a consistent performer for the Men in Green across formats and has been shattering records at will. He has often earned comparisons with the likes of Virat Kohli, Steve Smith, Joe Root and others due to his batting exploits in international cricket but the Pakistan skipper has always maintained there is still significant room for improvement.</p>

<p>Babar, who took over as Pakistan's full-time captain across all three formats in 2019, was seen primarily as a white-ball star at the start of his career. However, he has gone on to showcase his consistency in Tests as well and has established his credentials in the whites for Pakistan.</p>

<p>Legendary fast bowler Waqar Younis recently heaped praise on Babar when asked about his comparisons with the best players of his generation. The former Pakistan captain called Babar a million-dollar player but insisted his career should be judged only when he is done with his international career.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-cant-rest-in-ipl-but-want-to-rest-when-you-play-for-india-sunil-gavaskar-slams-team-india-stars-496556">You can't rest in IPL but want to rest when you play for India: Sunil Gavaskar slams Team India stars</a></p>

<p>"Babar Azam in modern-day cricket looks a million dollars and he is definitely as good as all the big names. Babar is still very young and has plenty of cricket ahead of him and once he has retired you can perhaps sit down and start comparing him with others," Waqar said on ICC digital.</p>

<p>"But all those greats have their own strengths and their own class and all of them played in different eras and we should not forget that," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-likely-to-miss-odi-series-opener-vs-england-due-to-injury-concerns-sources-496472">&nbsp;Virat Kohli likely to miss ODI series opener vs England due to injury concerns: Sources</a></p>

<p>Babar has so far played 40 Tests, 89 ODIs and 74 T20Is in his international career amassing 2851, 4442 and 2686 runs in the three formats respectively. He is currently the number one ranked batter in both ODIs and T20Is and will be hoping to continue his fine form with the willow in the upcoming series for Pakistan.</p>


Pakistan captain Babar Azam is one of the best batters in the world at present. He has been a consistent performer for the Men in Green across formats and has been shattering records at will.

Pakistan captain Babar Azam is one of the best batters in the world at present. He has been a consistent performer for the Men in Green across formats and has been shattering records at will. He has often earned comparisons with the likes of Virat Kohli, Steve Smith, Joe Root and others due to his batting exploits in international cricket but the Pakistan skipper has always maintained there is still significant room for improvement. Babar, who took over as Pakistan's full-time captain across all three formats in 2019, was seen primarily as a white-ball star at the start of his career. However, he has gone on to showcase his consistency in Tests as well and has established his credentials in the whites for Pakistan. Legendary fast bowler Waqar Younis recently heaped praise on Babar when asked about his comparisons with the best players of his generation. The former Pakistan captain called Babar a million-dollar player but insisted his career should be judged only when he is done with his international career. Also Read: You can't rest in IPL but want to rest when you play for India: Sunil Gavaskar slams Team India stars "Babar Azam in modern-day cricket looks a million dollars and he is definitely as good as all the big names. Babar is still very young and has plenty of cricket ahead of him and once he has retired you can perhaps sit down and start comparing him with others," Waqar said on ICC digital. "But all those greats have their own strengths and their own class and all of them played in different eras and we should not forget that," he added. Also Read: Virat Kohli likely to miss ODI series opener vs England due to injury concerns: Sources Babar has so far played 40 Tests, 89 ODIs and 74 T20Is in his international career amassing 2851, 4442 and 2686 runs in the three formats respectively. He is currently the number one ranked batter in both ODIs and T20Is and will be hoping to continue his fine form with the willow in the upcoming series for Pakistan.

'Babar Azam looks like a million dollars': Waqar Younis on Pakistan skipper's comparisons with other greats

<p>Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar has slammed the Indian players for opting for rest during national team duty and not considering taking a break while representing their respective franchises during the Indian Premier League (IPL). Gavaskar's comments have come at a time when the Indian team management and the selectors have been facing the ire for constantly resting senior players who are struggling with their form.</p>

<p>There have also been reports that some senior players asked to be rested from the upcoming five-match T20I series against West Indies. Captain Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli among others have already been rested for the ODI series against West Indies and it remains to be seen if they will feature in the T20 squad for the tour of the Caribbean.</p>

<p>Gavaskar has questioned players' commitment to playing for their country amid the resting policy. The Indian legend said he is absolutely against players taking a rest from international cricket and questioned why don't the senior Indian players take a break during the IPL instead of resting when playing for the country.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/when-rohit-does-not-score-runs-no-one-talks-about-it-sunil-gavaskar-comes-in-defence-of-virat-kohli-496447">'When Rohit does not score runs, no one talks about it' - Sunil Gavaskar comes in defence of Virat Kohli</a></p>

<p>"I am absolutely against players taking rest. You can't rest in IPL, but you want to rest when you play for India? Test cricket takes a toll on your mind and body. But T20s is all about 20 overs of bowling and batting which shouldn't be difficult. If they want to take a rest, they can, but then all the guarantees should be taken away from them. The board needs to draw a line if they want to be professional," Gavaskar said on <em>Sports Tak</em>.</p>

<p>Both Kohli and Rohit have not enjoyed the best of form and have struggled to score runs consistently in the last few months. The duo had a shambolic campaign in IPL 2022 for their respective teams and are yet to notch up a big knock for the Indian team and have&nbsp;failed in the last few games.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-likely-to-miss-odi-series-opener-vs-england-due-to-injury-concerns-sources-496472">Virat Kohli likely to miss ODI series opener vs England due to injury concerns: Sources</a></p>

<p>With the T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia just a few months away from getting underway, both Kohli and Rohit's form has become a huge concern for the Indian team. Many have even questioned Kohli's spot in India's T20I side suggesting that the senior batter should be dropped from the team.</p>


Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar has slammed the Indian players for opting for rest during national team duty and not considering taking a break while representing their respective franchises during the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar has slammed the Indian players for opting for rest during national team duty and not considering taking a break while representing their respective franchises during the Indian Premier League (IPL). Gavaskar's comments have come at a time when the Indian team management and the selectors have been facing the ire for constantly resting senior players who are struggling with their form. There have also been reports that some senior players asked to be rested from the upcoming five-match T20I series against West Indies. Captain Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli among others have already been rested for the ODI series against West Indies and it remains to be seen if they will feature in the T20 squad for the tour of the Caribbean. Gavaskar has questioned players' commitment to playing for their country amid the resting policy. The Indian legend said he is absolutely against players taking a rest from international cricket and questioned why don't the senior Indian players take a break during the IPL instead of resting when playing for the country. Also Read: 'When Rohit does not score runs, no one talks about it' - Sunil Gavaskar comes in defence of Virat Kohli "I am absolutely against players taking rest. You can't rest in IPL, but you want to rest when you play for India? Test cricket takes a toll on your mind and body. But T20s is all about 20 overs of bowling and batting which shouldn't be difficult. If they want to take a rest, they can, but then all the guarantees should be taken away from them. The board needs to draw a line if they want to be professional," Gavaskar said on Sports Tak. Both Kohli and Rohit have not enjoyed the best of form and have struggled to score runs consistently in the last few months. The duo had a shambolic campaign in IPL 2022 for their respective teams and are yet to notch up a big knock for the Indian team and have failed in the last few games. Also Read: Virat Kohli likely to miss ODI series opener vs England due to injury concerns: Sources With the T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia just a few months away from getting underway, both Kohli and Rohit's form has become a huge concern for the Indian team. Many have even questioned Kohli's spot in India's T20I side suggesting that the senior batter should be dropped from the team.

You can't rest in IPL but want to rest when you play for India: Sunil Gavaskar slams Team India stars

<p>Australia batter David Warner shared a heartfelt note for Sri Lankan fans on social media post their conclusion of Aussie's tour of the country on Monday (July 11). Australia's tour of Sri Lanka came to an end with the hosts defeating Pat Cummins &amp; Co. by an innings and 39 runs in the 2nd and final Test to draw the two-match series 1-1. It was a tour to remember for Australia considering the circumstances they were playing in in Sri Lanka.</p>

<p>Australia's tour of Sri Lanka kick-started with the visitors clinching the T20I series 2-1 before the hosts bounced back to win the five-match ODI series 3-2. There was quality cricket on display throughout the white-ball leg before the two teams gave their all in the two-match Test series which ended in a 1-1 draw.</p>

<p>While there was intense action on the field during the tour, Australian players found themselves in unforeseen circumstances towards the end of it with anti-government protests happening across Sri Lanka. Amid the Sri Lankans dealing with the worst-ever economic crisis in the country's history, cricket provided some respite.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/people-are-eating-on-alternate-days-to-feed-their-kids-pat-cummins-on-massive-protests-in-sri-lanka-496594">People are eating on alternate days to feed their kids: Pat Cummins on massive protests in Sri Lanka</a></p>

<p>Sri Lanka is dealing with an acute shortage of essential supplies, power cuts and soaring inflation amid political unrest and the economic crisis in the country. However, fans turned up in huge numbers at the&nbsp;stadiums to watch the matches between Sri Lanka and Australia. There was immense passion on display at the stands during the matches with fans celebrating the game wholeheartedly.</p>

<p>Australian batter Warner took to social media to share a heartfelt post for Sri Lanka and the cricket fans in the country thanking them for their amazing reception despite the difficult circumstances. Warner haled the fans for smiling through the adversities and said he would never forget this trip.</p>

<p>“Thank you Sri Lanka for hosting us here during what is an extremely difficult time. We are so grateful to be able to come here and play the game we love and know you all love supporting. You have opened your arms up to us and we will never forget this trip," Warner wrote in his Instagram post.</p>

<p>"What I love about your amazing country is no matter the circumstances you always have a smile on your face and are always so welcoming. Thank you and I can’t wait to one day visit for a holiday with my family," he added.</p>

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<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-cant-rest-in-ipl-but-want-to-rest-when-you-play-for-india-sunil-gavaskar-slams-team-india-stars-496556">You can't rest in IPL but want to rest when you play for India: Sunil Gavaskar slams Team India stars</a></p>

<p>During the second Test between Sri Lanka and Australia, protestors had gathered around the Galle Fort near the Galle Stadium which was hosting the match. Some protests enjoyed the cricketing action from far as the hosts managed to get the better of Australia in the final encounter to draw the series.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Australia batter David Warner shared a heartfelt note for Sri Lankan fans on social media post their conclusion of Aussie's tour of the country on Monday (July 11).

Australia batter David Warner shared a heartfelt note for Sri Lankan fans on social media post their conclusion of Aussie's tour of the country on Monday (July 11). Australia's tour of Sri Lanka came to an end with the hosts defeating Pat Cummins & Co. by an innings and 39 runs in the 2nd and final Test to draw the two-match series 1-1. It was a tour to remember for Australia considering the circumstances they were playing in in Sri Lanka. Australia's tour of Sri Lanka kick-started with the visitors clinching the T20I series 2-1 before the hosts bounced back to win the five-match ODI series 3-2. There was quality cricket on display throughout the white-ball leg before the two teams gave their all in the two-match Test series which ended in a 1-1 draw. While there was intense action on the field during the tour, Australian players found themselves in unforeseen circumstances towards the end of it with anti-government protests happening across Sri Lanka. Amid the Sri Lankans dealing with the worst-ever economic crisis in the country's history, cricket provided some respite. Also Read: People are eating on alternate days to feed their kids: Pat Cummins on massive protests in Sri Lanka Sri Lanka is dealing with an acute shortage of essential supplies, power cuts and soaring inflation amid political unrest and the economic crisis in the country. However, fans turned up in huge numbers at the stadiums to watch the matches between Sri Lanka and Australia. There was immense passion on display at the stands during the matches with fans celebrating the game wholeheartedly. Australian batter Warner took to social media to share a heartfelt post for Sri Lanka and the cricket fans in the country thanking them for their amazing reception despite the difficult circumstances. Warner haled the fans for smiling through the adversities and said he would never forget this trip. “Thank you Sri Lanka for hosting us here during what is an extremely difficult time. We are so grateful to be able to come here and play the game we love and know you all love supporting. You have opened your arms up to us and we will never forget this trip," Warner wrote in his Instagram post. "What I love about your amazing country is no matter the circumstances you always have a smile on your face and are always so welcoming. Thank you and I can’t wait to one day visit for a holiday with my family," he added. View this post on Instagram A post shared by David Warner (@davidwarner31) × Also Read: You can't rest in IPL but want to rest when you play for India: Sunil Gavaskar slams Team India stars During the second Test between Sri Lanka and Australia, protestors had gathered around the Galle Fort near the Galle Stadium which was hosting the match. Some protests enjoyed the cricketing action from far as the hosts managed to get the better of Australia in the final encounter to draw the series.

'Will never forget this trip': David Warner shares heartfelt post for Sri Lanka amid economic crisis, protests

<p>India will be looking to continue their dominant run in white-ball cricket under captain Rohit Sharma when they lock horns with England in the 1st ODI of the three-match series at the Kennington Oval in London on Tuesday (July 12). After losing the one-off 5th Test in Edgbaston by 7 wickets, India bounced back to win the three-match T20I series 2-1 and will be hoping to get off to a winning start in ODIs.</p>

<p>Shikhar Dhawan will return to the playing XI as he remains a vital cog in the Indian batting line-up as far as ODIs are concerned. In the absence of KL Rahul, Dhawan will open the batting with skipper Rohit Sharma and will be hoping to get the Men in Blue off to a good start.</p>

<p>All eyes will be on struggling Virat Kohli, who has failed to fire in his last few outings for India and is under immense pressure to regain his lost form. Kohli might not feature in the playing XI on Tuesday amid reports that he suffered a groin injury during practice ahead of the first ODI.</p>

<p>However, if he manages to make the cut, Kohli will be aiming to shut down his critics and notch up a big knock against the hosts. He is likely to continue batting at number three amid backing from the captain and the team management. Surykaumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant and Hardik Pandya will constitute India's middle order.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/people-are-eating-on-alternate-days-to-feed-their-kids-pat-cummins-on-massive-protests-in-sri-lanka-496594">People are eating on alternate days to feed their kids: Pat Cummins on massive protests in Sri Lanka</a></p>

<p>While Pant was fabulous in the one-off Test against England, he couldn't quite continue his red-hot form in the T20Is against England. The swashbuckling left-hander will be hoping to find some consistency in the ODI series and contribute generously in the middle order.</p>

<p>Ravindra Jadeja is likely to be the second all-rounder in the side along with Pandya and will be donning the finishers' role in the lower-middle order. His contributions with the ball will be vital for the team in the absence of R Ashwin and Kuldeep Yadav.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-cant-rest-in-ipl-but-want-to-rest-when-you-play-for-india-sunil-gavaskar-slams-team-india-stars-496556">You can't rest in IPL but want to rest when you play for India: Sunil Gavaskar slams Team India stars</a></p>

<p>Jasprit Bumrah will spearhead India's pace attack in the absence of the experienced Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who was on fire in the recently-concluded T20I series. Prasidh Krishna might make the cut over Shardul Thakur with his pace and accuracy with Mohammed Shami also featuring.</p>

<p><strong>India's predicted playing XI for 1st ODI against England:</strong></p>

<p>Rohit Sharma (c), Shikhar Dhawan, Virat Kohli/Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wk), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Prasidh Krishna, Mohammed Shami, Yuzvendra Chahal, Jasprit Bumrah<br />
&nbsp;</p>


India will be looking to continue their dominant run in white-ball cricket under captain Rohit Sharma when they lock horns with England in the 1st ODI of the three-match series at the Kennington Oval in London on Tuesday (July 12).

India will be looking to continue their dominant run in white-ball cricket under captain Rohit Sharma when they lock horns with England in the 1st ODI of the three-match series at the Kennington Oval in London on Tuesday (July 12). After losing the one-off 5th Test in Edgbaston by 7 wickets, India bounced back to win the three-match T20I series 2-1 and will be hoping to get off to a winning start in ODIs. Shikhar Dhawan will return to the playing XI as he remains a vital cog in the Indian batting line-up as far as ODIs are concerned. In the absence of KL Rahul, Dhawan will open the batting with skipper Rohit Sharma and will be hoping to get the Men in Blue off to a good start. All eyes will be on struggling Virat Kohli, who has failed to fire in his last few outings for India and is under immense pressure to regain his lost form. Kohli might not feature in the playing XI on Tuesday amid reports that he suffered a groin injury during practice ahead of the first ODI. However, if he manages to make the cut, Kohli will be aiming to shut down his critics and notch up a big knock against the hosts. He is likely to continue batting at number three amid backing from the captain and the team management. Surykaumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant and Hardik Pandya will constitute India's middle order. Also Read: People are eating on alternate days to feed their kids: Pat Cummins on massive protests in Sri Lanka While Pant was fabulous in the one-off Test against England, he couldn't quite continue his red-hot form in the T20Is against England. The swashbuckling left-hander will be hoping to find some consistency in the ODI series and contribute generously in the middle order. Ravindra Jadeja is likely to be the second all-rounder in the side along with Pandya and will be donning the finishers' role in the lower-middle order. His contributions with the ball will be vital for the team in the absence of R Ashwin and Kuldeep Yadav. Also Read: You can't rest in IPL but want to rest when you play for India: Sunil Gavaskar slams Team India stars Jasprit Bumrah will spearhead India's pace attack in the absence of the experienced Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who was on fire in the recently-concluded T20I series. Prasidh Krishna might make the cut over Shardul Thakur with his pace and accuracy with Mohammed Shami also featuring. India's predicted playing XI for 1st ODI against England: Rohit Sharma (c), Shikhar Dhawan, Virat Kohli/Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wk), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Prasidh Krishna, Mohammed Shami, Yuzvendra Chahal, Jasprit Bumrah

Virat Kohli to miss out? Rohit Sharma-led India's predicted playing XI for 1st ODI against England

<p>Sri Lankans found some joy amid agony as the Dimuth Karunaratne-led team defeated Australia in the 2nd Test in Galle on Monday to draw the two-match Test series 1-1. Amid massive anti-government protests in the country and an acute shortage of resources due to the economic crisis, the Sri Lankan cricket team produced an excellent performance with the bat and ball to beat Australia by an innings and 39 runs in the second Test.</p>

<p>Despite the brilliant performance from the hosts, the second Test was overshadowed by protests across the nation. Protestors had flooded Sri Lankan president&nbsp;Gotabaya Rajapaksa's residence in Colombo as he was spotted feeling the country. The anti-government protests were staged amidst Sri Lanka dealing with one of its worst-ever economic crises.</p>

<p>Following the conclusion of the second Test in Galle, Australian Test captain Pat Cummins spoke about the protests in Sri Lanka and sympathised with the people of the country, who are facing a tough time. Cummins revealed he and some other players spoke to some of the staff at their hotel and drivers who told them how they have been surviving by eating on alternate days to ensure they can feed their kids.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/babar-azam-looks-like-a-million-dollars-waqar-younis-on-pakistan-skippers-comparisons-with-other-greats-496580">'Babar looks like a million dollars': Waqar Younis on Pakistan skipper's comparisons with other greats</a></p>

<p>“The protest yesterday, you couldn’t escape it. We’ve got list of messages from back home saying, ‘how is it? Hope you’re okay.’ We’ve felt totally fine,” Cummins said in a video posted by Cricket Australia.</p>

<p>“You could just hear kind of when it changed from a protest to a party. And chatting to some of the staff around the hotel and a couple of drivers. They are doing it really tough. They are having one day eating, one day off eating to try and feed their kids. It’s really tough,” he added.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Pat Cummins speaks about the mass protest that swarmed the Galle ground during the second Test and how the impact of the tour has not been lost on the touring side <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SLvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SLvAUS</a> <a href="https://t.co/M6BrlCdpwr">pic.twitter.com/M6BrlCdpwr</a></p>
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1546697102893322240?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 12, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Talking about the second Test, Australia looked well in control after the visitors rode on centuries from Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith to post 364 runs on the board in their first innings.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/updated-icc-world-test-championship-points-table-after-sri-lanka-level-series-with-australia-496460">&nbsp;Updated ICC World Test Championship points table after Sri Lanka level series with Australia</a></p>

<p>However, Sri Lankan batters were up for the challenge as Dinesh Chandimal struck an unbeaten double hundred while the likes of Karunaratne, Kusal Mendis, Kamindu Mendis and Angelo Mathews struck half-centuries apiece to take the hosts to a staggering total of 554 runs in their first innings.</p>

<p>Sri Lanka then bundled out the Aussies for a paltry 151 runs in their second innings to register a dominant win by an innings and 39 runs. Left-arm spinner&nbsp;Prabath Jayasuriya ran through the Aussie batting line-up picking up six wickets in their second innings.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Sri Lankans found some joy amid agony as the Dimuth Karunaratne-led team defeated Australia in the 2nd Test in Galle on Monday to draw the two-match Test series 1-1.

Sri Lankans found some joy amid agony as the Dimuth Karunaratne-led team defeated Australia in the 2nd Test in Galle on Monday to draw the two-match Test series 1-1. Amid massive anti-government protests in the country and an acute shortage of resources due to the economic crisis, the Sri Lankan cricket team produced an excellent performance with the bat and ball to beat Australia by an innings and 39 runs in the second Test. Despite the brilliant performance from the hosts, the second Test was overshadowed by protests across the nation. Protestors had flooded Sri Lankan president Gotabaya Rajapaksa's residence in Colombo as he was spotted feeling the country. The anti-government protests were staged amidst Sri Lanka dealing with one of its worst-ever economic crises. Following the conclusion of the second Test in Galle, Australian Test captain Pat Cummins spoke about the protests in Sri Lanka and sympathised with the people of the country, who are facing a tough time. Cummins revealed he and some other players spoke to some of the staff at their hotel and drivers who told them how they have been surviving by eating on alternate days to ensure they can feed their kids. Also Read: 'Babar looks like a million dollars': Waqar Younis on Pakistan skipper's comparisons with other greats “The protest yesterday, you couldn’t escape it. We’ve got list of messages from back home saying, ‘how is it? Hope you’re okay.’ We’ve felt totally fine,” Cummins said in a video posted by Cricket Australia. “You could just hear kind of when it changed from a protest to a party. And chatting to some of the staff around the hotel and a couple of drivers. They are doing it really tough. They are having one day eating, one day off eating to try and feed their kids. It’s really tough,” he added. Pat Cummins speaks about the mass protest that swarmed the Galle ground during the second Test and how the impact of the tour has not been lost on the touring side #SLvAUS pic.twitter.com/M6BrlCdpwr — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) July 12, 2022 × Talking about the second Test, Australia looked well in control after the visitors rode on centuries from Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith to post 364 runs on the board in their first innings. Also Read: Updated ICC World Test Championship points table after Sri Lanka level series with Australia However, Sri Lankan batters were up for the challenge as Dinesh Chandimal struck an unbeaten double hundred while the likes of Karunaratne, Kusal Mendis, Kamindu Mendis and Angelo Mathews struck half-centuries apiece to take the hosts to a staggering total of 554 runs in their first innings. Sri Lanka then bundled out the Aussies for a paltry 151 runs in their second innings to register a dominant win by an innings and 39 runs. Left-arm spinner Prabath Jayasuriya ran through the Aussie batting line-up picking up six wickets in their second innings.

People are eating on alternate days to feed their kids: Pat Cummins on massive protests in Sri Lanka

<p>Amid Virat Kohli's ongoing lean patch for Team India, questions have been raised on his spot in the T20I team with the T20 World Cup 2022 just a few months away. Kohli has failed to score runs consistently in international cricket for a while now and has struggled to notch up big scores. His last century for the Indian team came in November 2019 and the batting maestro has since failed to score a ton in international cricket.</p>

<p>After a dismal IPL 2022 campaign, Kohli was rested from South Africa series at home and made his comeback during India's tour of England. However, his poor patch with the willow continued as he fop in the one-off fifth Test before struggling in the two T20Is that he played against the hosts.</p>

<p>Kohli managed to score only 12 runs in two T20Is against England after being roped in into the playing XI in place of in-form Deepak Hooda. The move to drop Hooda was criticised by many with several experts questioning on what merit did Kohli deserve a place in the XI despite being out of form.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ganguly-sehwag-all-have-been-dropped-venkatesh-prasad-slams-indias-decision-to-rest-out-of-form-players-496340">Ganguly, Sehwag all have been dropped: Venkatesh Prasad slams India's decision to rest out-of-form players</a></p>

<p>Amid suggestions that he should be dropped from India's T20I squad due to his poor form, former England captain Michael Vaughan has said there will be big question marks if Kohli is selected in India's squad for T20 World Cup 2022.</p>

<p>"It’s Virat Kohli that the big question mark is about. When he’s at his best, he gets in. But, there are going to be big question marks over Virat the next time he plays T20 cricket if these players keep producing the magic when they come into the side," Vaughan said in a discussion with <em>Cricbuzz</em>.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-defends-virat-kohli-reponds-to-his-critics-they-dont-know-whats-going-on-inside-496254">Rohit Sharma defends Virat Kohli, responds to his critics: 'They don't know what's going on inside'</a></p>

<p>Vaughan also believes the selectors and team management are set to deal with a major selection headache when KL Rahul recovers from his injury and is fit to join the squad. The former England captain reckons one out of Rishabh Pant or Dinesh Karthik will have to be dropped from the playing XI when Rahul returns.</p>

<p>"I am just looking at how India would juggle all these players into the final XI for the World Cup. KL Rahul will come back in. Rishabh Pant, DK, one of them will have to keep. I don’t think both of them will play. I want Rishabh in because he’s left-handed," said Vaughan.</p>


Amid Virat Kohli's ongoing lean patch for Team India, questions have been raised on his spot in the T20I team with the T20 World Cup 2022 just a few months away.

Amid Virat Kohli's ongoing lean patch for Team India, questions have been raised on his spot in the T20I team with the T20 World Cup 2022 just a few months away. Kohli has failed to score runs consistently in international cricket for a while now and has struggled to notch up big scores. His last century for the Indian team came in November 2019 and the batting maestro has since failed to score a ton in international cricket. After a dismal IPL 2022 campaign, Kohli was rested from South Africa series at home and made his comeback during India's tour of England. However, his poor patch with the willow continued as he fop in the one-off fifth Test before struggling in the two T20Is that he played against the hosts. Kohli managed to score only 12 runs in two T20Is against England after being roped in into the playing XI in place of in-form Deepak Hooda. The move to drop Hooda was criticised by many with several experts questioning on what merit did Kohli deserve a place in the XI despite being out of form. Also Read: Ganguly, Sehwag all have been dropped: Venkatesh Prasad slams India's decision to rest out-of-form players Amid suggestions that he should be dropped from India's T20I squad due to his poor form, former England captain Michael Vaughan has said there will be big question marks if Kohli is selected in India's squad for T20 World Cup 2022. "It’s Virat Kohli that the big question mark is about. When he’s at his best, he gets in. But, there are going to be big question marks over Virat the next time he plays T20 cricket if these players keep producing the magic when they come into the side," Vaughan said in a discussion with Cricbuzz. Also Read: Rohit Sharma defends Virat Kohli, responds to his critics: 'They don't know what's going on inside' Vaughan also believes the selectors and team management are set to deal with a major selection headache when KL Rahul recovers from his injury and is fit to join the squad. The former England captain reckons one out of Rishabh Pant or Dinesh Karthik will have to be dropped from the playing XI when Rahul returns. "I am just looking at how India would juggle all these players into the final XI for the World Cup. KL Rahul will come back in. Rishabh Pant, DK, one of them will have to keep. I don’t think both of them will play. I want Rishabh in because he’s left-handed," said Vaughan.

'There will be big question marks': Michael Vaughan on Virat Kohli's spot in India's squad for T20 WC 2022

<p>The Indian Premier League (IPL) is one of the best T20 tournaments in the world and enjoys massive popularity across the globe. While high-quality cricketing action on display attracts fans from across the globe, IPL also allows punters from around the world to place bets during matches. While there are several legal betting apps online, several fake betting rackets have been busted in India over the years.</p>

<p>The latest fake IPL betting racket was busted in Gujarat's Mehsana district where fake matches were staged at a remote farm in Molipur Village to dupe punters from Russia. HD cameras, fake crowd noise and umpires were used during the matches with players wearing the jerseys of IPL teams to pull off a near-perfect con job.</p>

<p>As per a report in the<em> Times of India</em>, the fake IPL had almost reached the quarter-finals stage before the racket was busted by the local police. The report further states that the matches used to be broadcast live on YouTube and bets were accepted from punters from three Russian cities - Moscow, Voronezh and Tver.</p>

<p>While the players reportedly worse jerseys worn by the actual IPL teams, walkie-talkies were also used during the matches to make it look like the real tournament. As per the report, a commentator was also hired to mimic famous cricket commentator Harsha Bhogle during the matches.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-defends-virat-kohli-reponds-to-his-critics-they-dont-know-whats-going-on-inside-496254">Rohit Sharma defends Virat Kohli, responds to his critics: 'They don't know what's going on inside'</a></p>

<p>As per the <em>Times of India</em>, the Mehsana police arrested four people, who were involved in the fake IPL racket and are currently investigating the matter. As per Bhavesh Rathod, the SOG PI, Mehsana, a person named Shoeb Davda was helping in taking bets and running the fake IPL after returning to India from Russia where he worked at a pub famous for taking bets.</p>

<p>However, Shoeb claimed he was not the mastermind behind the whole racket and revealed he had met a person named Asif Mohammed while working in the Russian pub and it was Asif who executed the whole plan. Soheb helped Asif in staging the fake tournament in India by hiring 21 farm labours as players for Rs 400 per day. He also hired cameramen, and a commentator and bought IPL jerseys for the players to help Asif in pulling off the fake IPL.</p>

<p>"Shoeb hired the farm of Ghulam Masih and installed halogen lights there. He readied 21 farm labourers, promising them Rs 400 per match. Next, he hired cameramen and bought T-shirts of IPL teams. When the cops were tipped-off, they felt something was wrong," Rathod was quoted as saying by the Times of India.</p>

<p>"Shoeb would take bets. He would instruct Kolu, the umpire, to signal fours and sixes. Kolu would alert the batsman and the baller. Next, the baller would deliver a slow ball, enabling the batsman to hit it for a four or a six.</p>

<p>"The cameramen would pan the cameras towards the sky to show that the ball was nowhere in sight. Next, they would zoom into the umpire who would signal a six. The cameramen ensured there were no zoom-outs lest the farm became visible," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/suryakumar-yadav-to-watch-out-for-rohit-sharmas-10-year-old-tweet-goes-viral-as-sky-torments-england-496272">'Suryakumar&nbsp;to watch out for': Rohit Sharma's 10-year-old tweet goes viral as SKY torments England</a></p>

<p>As per the report, the first instalment of bets from Russia amounting to Rs 3 lakh (Around USD 3,778) had already been received by the group running the fake betting racket in the name of IPL. The fake IPL racket has been busted just weeks after the 15th edition of the tournament was concluded in India with Gujarat Titans lifting the title in their maiden season.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


The Indian Premier League (IPL) is one of the best T20 tournaments in the world and enjoys massive popularity across the globe. While high-quality cricketing action on display attracts fans from across the globe, IPL also allows punters from around the world to place bets during matches.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) is one of the best T20 tournaments in the world and enjoys massive popularity across the globe. While high-quality cricketing action on display attracts fans from across the globe, IPL also allows punters from around the world to place bets during matches. While there are several legal betting apps online, several fake betting rackets have been busted in India over the years. The latest fake IPL betting racket was busted in Gujarat's Mehsana district where fake matches were staged at a remote farm in Molipur Village to dupe punters from Russia. HD cameras, fake crowd noise and umpires were used during the matches with players wearing the jerseys of IPL teams to pull off a near-perfect con job. As per a report in the Times of India, the fake IPL had almost reached the quarter-finals stage before the racket was busted by the local police. The report further states that the matches used to be broadcast live on YouTube and bets were accepted from punters from three Russian cities - Moscow, Voronezh and Tver. While the players reportedly worse jerseys worn by the actual IPL teams, walkie-talkies were also used during the matches to make it look like the real tournament. As per the report, a commentator was also hired to mimic famous cricket commentator Harsha Bhogle during the matches. Also Read: Rohit Sharma defends Virat Kohli, responds to his critics: 'They don't know what's going on inside' As per the Times of India, the Mehsana police arrested four people, who were involved in the fake IPL racket and are currently investigating the matter. As per Bhavesh Rathod, the SOG PI, Mehsana, a person named Shoeb Davda was helping in taking bets and running the fake IPL after returning to India from Russia where he worked at a pub famous for taking bets. However, Shoeb claimed he was not the mastermind behind the whole racket and revealed he had met a person named Asif Mohammed while working in the Russian pub and it was Asif who executed the whole plan. Soheb helped Asif in staging the fake tournament in India by hiring 21 farm labours as players for Rs 400 per day. He also hired cameramen, and a commentator and bought IPL jerseys for the players to help Asif in pulling off the fake IPL. "Shoeb hired the farm of Ghulam Masih and installed halogen lights there. He readied 21 farm labourers, promising them Rs 400 per match. Next, he hired cameramen and bought T-shirts of IPL teams. When the cops were tipped-off, they felt something was wrong," Rathod was quoted as saying by the Times of India. "Shoeb would take bets. He would instruct Kolu, the umpire, to signal fours and sixes. Kolu would alert the batsman and the baller. Next, the baller would deliver a slow ball, enabling the batsman to hit it for a four or a six. "The cameramen would pan the cameras towards the sky to show that the ball was nowhere in sight. Next, they would zoom into the umpire who would signal a six. The cameramen ensured there were no zoom-outs lest the farm became visible," he added. Also Read: 'Suryakumar to watch out for': Rohit Sharma's 10-year-old tweet goes viral as SKY torments England As per the report, the first instalment of bets from Russia amounting to Rs 3 lakh (Around USD 3,778) had already been received by the group running the fake betting racket in the name of IPL. The fake IPL racket has been busted just weeks after the 15th edition of the tournament was concluded in India with Gujarat Titans lifting the title in their maiden season.

HD cameras, crowd-noise effect & team jerseys: How fake IPL staged in India's Gujarat duped Russian punters

<p>Derbyshire spinner Mattie McKiernan was taken to cleaners by Somerset batters in the clash between the two sides in the quarter-final of the ongoing T20 Blast 2022 on Saturday (July 10). McKiernan went on to concede a whopping 82 runs in his four-over spell to create the world record for the most runs conceded by a bowler in a T20 match. It was a forgetful night for the right-arm leg spinner, who had absolutely no answers to the ruthlessness of the Somerset batters.</p>

<p>Batting first in the quarter-final, Somerset got off to a flying start as openers Tom Banton and Will Smeed posted 49-run for the first wicket. While Smeed managed a run-a-ball 18, Banton slammed a quickfire knock of 41-ball 73 laced with six sixes and 4 fours. After Smeed's dismissal, Banton combined with South African batter Rilee Rossouw to dismantle the Derbyshire bowling attack.</p>

<p>Rossouw went berserk with the willow as he went on to smash a stunning 93 off just 36 balls laced with 8 fours and 7 sixes. Rossouw and Banton added a brilliant stand of 102 runs for the second wicket before the Proteas batted and posted another 56-run stand for the third wicket with skipper Tom Abell (22).</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/very-promising-leading-into-t20-wc-michael-vaughan-lauds-india-after-49-run-win-over-england-in-2nd-t20i-495969">'Very promising leading into T20 WC':&nbsp;Vaughan lauds India after 49-run win over England in 2nd T20I</a></p>

<p>McKiernan was on the receiving end of the onslaught from the Somerset batters as he was smashed all around the park at The Cooper Associates County Ground in Taunton. He was taken for a staggering 35 runs in just one over before conceding 47 runs in his next three overs.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">36 off the over<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WeAreSomerset?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WeAreSomerset</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SOMvDER?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SOMvDER</a> <a href="https://t.co/vH9Jc7FaFF">pic.twitter.com/vH9Jc7FaFF</a></p>
— Somerset Cricket 🏏 (@SomersetCCC) <a href="https://twitter.com/SomersetCCC/status/1545890465265995776?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 9, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>He finished with disappointing figures of 82/0 to create the record for most runs conceded in a single match by any bowler in T20 history. He went past&nbsp;Sarmad Anwar, who had conceded 81 runs off his overs while playing for Sialkot Stallions in a Super Eight T20 Cup match against Lahore Lions in 2011.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">You are probably going to want to watch these highlights!!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SOMvDER?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SOMvDER</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WeAreSomerset?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WeAreSomerset</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ItsTradeNation?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ItsTradeNation</a> <a href="https://t.co/n8kb1StsFW">pic.twitter.com/n8kb1StsFW</a></p>
— Somerset Cricket (@SomersetCCC) <a href="https://twitter.com/SomersetCCC/status/1545896621677969412?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 9, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-pakistani-cricketer-ahmed-shehzad-wants-brad-pitt-to-play-him-in-his-biopic-trolled-mercilessly-495935">Watch: Pakistani cricketer Ahmed Shehzad wants Brad Pitt to play him in his biopic, trolled mercilessly&nbsp;</a></p>

<p>Talking about the game, Somerset went on to post a huge total of 265 runs on the board riding on Banton's 73 and Rossouw's stunning 93 before their bowlers bundled out Derbyshire on a paltry 74 during their run-chase. Somerset registered an emphatic victory by 191 runs to enter the semi-finals of the T20 Blast 2022 and will be looking to continue their brilliant run in the all-important game.</p>


Derbyshire spinner Mattie McKiernan was taken to cleaners by Somerset batters in the clash between the two sides in the quarter-final of the ongoing T20 Blast 2022 on Saturday (July 10).

Derbyshire spinner Mattie McKiernan was taken to cleaners by Somerset batters in the clash between the two sides in the quarter-final of the ongoing T20 Blast 2022 on Saturday (July 10). McKiernan went on to concede a whopping 82 runs in his four-over spell to create the world record for the most runs conceded by a bowler in a T20 match. It was a forgetful night for the right-arm leg spinner, who had absolutely no answers to the ruthlessness of the Somerset batters. Batting first in the quarter-final, Somerset got off to a flying start as openers Tom Banton and Will Smeed posted 49-run for the first wicket. While Smeed managed a run-a-ball 18, Banton slammed a quickfire knock of 41-ball 73 laced with six sixes and 4 fours. After Smeed's dismissal, Banton combined with South African batter Rilee Rossouw to dismantle the Derbyshire bowling attack. Rossouw went berserk with the willow as he went on to smash a stunning 93 off just 36 balls laced with 8 fours and 7 sixes. Rossouw and Banton added a brilliant stand of 102 runs for the second wicket before the Proteas batted and posted another 56-run stand for the third wicket with skipper Tom Abell (22). Also Read: 'Very promising leading into T20 WC': Vaughan lauds India after 49-run win over England in 2nd T20I McKiernan was on the receiving end of the onslaught from the Somerset batters as he was smashed all around the park at The Cooper Associates County Ground in Taunton. He was taken for a staggering 35 runs in just one over before conceding 47 runs in his next three overs. 36 off the over#WeAreSomerset #SOMvDER pic.twitter.com/vH9Jc7FaFF — Somerset Cricket 🏏 (@SomersetCCC) July 9, 2022 × He finished with disappointing figures of 82/0 to create the record for most runs conceded in a single match by any bowler in T20 history. He went past Sarmad Anwar, who had conceded 81 runs off his overs while playing for Sialkot Stallions in a Super Eight T20 Cup match against Lahore Lions in 2011. You are probably going to want to watch these highlights!!#SOMvDER #WeAreSomerset @ItsTradeNation pic.twitter.com/n8kb1StsFW — Somerset Cricket (@SomersetCCC) July 9, 2022 × Also Read: Watch: Pakistani cricketer Ahmed Shehzad wants Brad Pitt to play him in his biopic, trolled mercilessly Talking about the game, Somerset went on to post a huge total of 265 runs on the board riding on Banton's 73 and Rossouw's stunning 93 before their bowlers bundled out Derbyshire on a paltry 74 during their run-chase. Somerset registered an emphatic victory by 191 runs to enter the semi-finals of the T20 Blast 2022 and will be looking to continue their brilliant run in the all-important game.

Derbyshire's Mattie McKiernan creates world record for most expensive 4-over spell in T20 cricket history

<p>Virat Kohli's spot in India's T20I squad has been questioned by several former cricketers and experts of late amid his ongoing rough patch with the willow. Kohli has been far from consistent for India in international cricket over the last few years and has struggled to notch up big knocks for the team. His struggles continued as Kohli made his comeback in T20Is for India in the second T20I against England on Saturday (July 09).</p>

<p>Kohli returned to India's playing XI in a T20I match after the gap of four months but failed to make an impact as he was dismissed on just 1 run off 3 balls. While his lean patch is a huge concern for India heading into the T20 World Cup 2022, the rise of the likes of Deepak Hood and Suryakumar Yadav has further created uncertainty over his spot in the team.</p>

<p>Kohli was included in the playing XI for the 2nd T20I against England in place of in-form Deepak Hooda, who was enjoying a stellar run in the top-order. However, Kohli failed to justify his inclusion with another flop show at Edgbaston. Amid his rough patch, former England captain Michael Vaughan said Indian skipper Rohit Sharma and head coach Rahul Dravid are not considering dropping Kohli.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/on-this-day-in-2019-ms-dhonis-last-match-for-india-ends-in-a-heart-breaking-world-cup-defeat-496113">On this day in 2019: MS Dhoni's last match for India ends in a heart-breaking World Cup defeat</a></p>

<p>However, Vaughan insisted the captain-coach do cannot keep picking Kohli on the basis of his performances in the past. Vaughan also suggested Kohli take a break from all cricket and miss the upcoming five-match T20I series against West Indies post the England tour which he feels will do a lot of good for the former India captain.</p>

<p>“He (Virat) needs to score runs at a good strike rate. I am sure Rahul Dravid and Rohit Sharma are not considering dropping him. But you can’t just keep picking a player because of what he has done in the past," Vaughan said on <em>Cricbuzz </em>ahead of 3rd T20I.</p>

<p>“I have been saying he needs a break as it will do him a world of good. So missing the five T20Is against West Indies will be best thing to happen to him. But if there was ever a ground where you could get a quick score with great strike rate, Trent Bridge is the ground to get your form back," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-is-becoming-liability-former-pakistan-cricketer-slams-virat-kohli-after-poor-show-in-2nd-t20i-vs-england-496050">'He is becoming liability': Former Pakistan cricketer slams Kohli after poor show in 2nd T20I vs England</a></p>

<p>Despite Kohli's poor show in the game, India managed to thrash England by 49 runs in the second T20I on Saturday to clinch the three-match series 2-0 with back-to-back wins. The Rohit-led side is currently locking horns with England in the third and final T20I at Trent Bridge and will be aiming to clean sweep the series 3-0.</p>


Virat Kohli's spot in India's T20I squad has been questioned by several former cricketers and experts of late amid his ongoing rough patch with the willow. Kohli has been far from consistent for India in international cricket over the last few years and has struggled to notch up big knocks for the team.

Virat Kohli's spot in India's T20I squad has been questioned by several former cricketers and experts of late amid his ongoing rough patch with the willow. Kohli has been far from consistent for India in international cricket over the last few years and has struggled to notch up big knocks for the team. His struggles continued as Kohli made his comeback in T20Is for India in the second T20I against England on Saturday (July 09). Kohli returned to India's playing XI in a T20I match after the gap of four months but failed to make an impact as he was dismissed on just 1 run off 3 balls. While his lean patch is a huge concern for India heading into the T20 World Cup 2022, the rise of the likes of Deepak Hood and Suryakumar Yadav has further created uncertainty over his spot in the team. Kohli was included in the playing XI for the 2nd T20I against England in place of in-form Deepak Hooda, who was enjoying a stellar run in the top-order. However, Kohli failed to justify his inclusion with another flop show at Edgbaston. Amid his rough patch, former England captain Michael Vaughan said Indian skipper Rohit Sharma and head coach Rahul Dravid are not considering dropping Kohli. Also Read: On this day in 2019: MS Dhoni's last match for India ends in a heart-breaking World Cup defeat However, Vaughan insisted the captain-coach do cannot keep picking Kohli on the basis of his performances in the past. Vaughan also suggested Kohli take a break from all cricket and miss the upcoming five-match T20I series against West Indies post the England tour which he feels will do a lot of good for the former India captain. “He (Virat) needs to score runs at a good strike rate. I am sure Rahul Dravid and Rohit Sharma are not considering dropping him. But you can’t just keep picking a player because of what he has done in the past," Vaughan said on Cricbuzz ahead of 3rd T20I. “I have been saying he needs a break as it will do him a world of good. So missing the five T20Is against West Indies will be best thing to happen to him. But if there was ever a ground where you could get a quick score with great strike rate, Trent Bridge is the ground to get your form back," he added. Also Read: 'He is becoming liability': Former Pakistan cricketer slams Kohli after poor show in 2nd T20I vs England Despite Kohli's poor show in the game, India managed to thrash England by 49 runs in the second T20I on Saturday to clinch the three-match series 2-0 with back-to-back wins. The Rohit-led side is currently locking horns with England in the third and final T20I at Trent Bridge and will be aiming to clean sweep the series 3-0.

Rahul Dravid, Rohit Sharma can't keep picking Virat Kohli for his past performances: Michael Vaughan

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