<p>Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell was left in awe after a special gesture from the Sri Lankan fans following the conclusion of the fifth ODI at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on Friday (June 24). Sri Lanka is currently dealing with one of its worst financial crises but cricket turned out to be an escape for the fans in the country. Fans thronged in the stadium in huge numbers for the final 5th ODI between the two teams on Friday (June 24).</p>

<p>The R Premadasa Stadium was painted yellow by the Sri Lankan fans during the 5th ODI on Friday with a number of them sporting Australia's yellow jerseys to thank the visiting team for their support in the current time of crisis. Some Sri Lankan supporters were also spotted waving Australian national flags at the stadium during the game.</p>

<p>The Australian team also received a standing ovation from the Sri Lankan fans at the stadium after winning the 5th ODI by four wickets. Australia successfully chased down the target of 161 runs with 10.3 overs to spare to bag a consolation victory and end the five-match series 3-2.</p>

<p>Australian all-rounder Maxwell was overwhelmed by the gesture from the Sri Lankan fans and expressed his gratitude post the game. Maxwell said it was one of the most special feelings to get cheered on by fans of the opposition team as the Aussies are generally handed the 'enemy' tag when touring a nation.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-mohammed-shami-hugs-cheteshwar-pujara-after-dismissing-him-for-a-duck-in-practice-game-491396">WATCH: Mohammed Shami hugs Cheteshwar Pujara after dismissing him for a duck in practice game</a></p>

<p>"It was pretty extraordinary. I was just telling the boys 'that was one of the most special feelings, being able to walk around the ground and have a foreign country all cheer for you," Maxwell said speaking to cricket.com.au.</p>

<p>"A lot of times when Australia tours, we are generally the enemy and there is not many Australian fans in the stands but to have the support and fans that are here at the moment is truly extraordinary. Everyone's wearing yellow. They have got all the Australian flags all over the place. It's really special and credit to everyone who has been able to get here.</p>

<p>"It's been tough obviously for the locals and for them to come out to support us and entertain them and they have had a really good time during the one-day series," he added.</p>

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<p>Talking about the fifth ODI, Sri Lanka's batting line-up faltered after the hosts won the toss and decided to bat first. They were skittled out for a paltry 160 runs as the likes of Jos Hazlewood, Pat Cummins and Matthew Kuhnemann picked up two wickets apiece.</p>

<p>In reply, Australia chased down the target comfortably with the help of crucial knocks from Alex Carey (45) and Marnus Labuschagne (31). Despite losing the final game by 4 wickets, Sri Lanka clinched the series 3-2 to register a historic series win against the Aussies.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell was left in awe after a special gesture from the Sri Lankan fans following the conclusion of the fifth ODI at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on Friday (June 24).

Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell was left in awe after a special gesture from the Sri Lankan fans following the conclusion of the fifth ODI at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on Friday (June 24). Sri Lanka is currently dealing with one of its worst financial crises but cricket turned out to be an escape for the fans in the country. Fans thronged in the stadium in huge numbers for the final 5th ODI between the two teams on Friday (June 24). The R Premadasa Stadium was painted yellow by the Sri Lankan fans during the 5th ODI on Friday with a number of them sporting Australia's yellow jerseys to thank the visiting team for their support in the current time of crisis. Some Sri Lankan supporters were also spotted waving Australian national flags at the stadium during the game. The Australian team also received a standing ovation from the Sri Lankan fans at the stadium after winning the 5th ODI by four wickets. Australia successfully chased down the target of 161 runs with 10.3 overs to spare to bag a consolation victory and end the five-match series 3-2. Australian all-rounder Maxwell was overwhelmed by the gesture from the Sri Lankan fans and expressed his gratitude post the game. Maxwell said it was one of the most special feelings to get cheered on by fans of the opposition team as the Aussies are generally handed the 'enemy' tag when touring a nation. Also Read: WATCH: Mohammed Shami hugs Cheteshwar Pujara after dismissing him for a duck in practice game "It was pretty extraordinary. I was just telling the boys 'that was one of the most special feelings, being able to walk around the ground and have a foreign country all cheer for you," Maxwell said speaking to cricket.com.au. "A lot of times when Australia tours, we are generally the enemy and there is not many Australian fans in the stands but to have the support and fans that are here at the moment is truly extraordinary. Everyone's wearing yellow. They have got all the Australian flags all over the place. It's really special and credit to everyone who has been able to get here. "It's been tough obviously for the locals and for them to come out to support us and entertain them and they have had a really good time during the one-day series," he added. Also Read: 'Will challenge it....' - PCB chairman Ramiz Raja breaks silence on IPL's two-and-a-half month window Talking about the fifth ODI, Sri Lanka's batting line-up faltered after the hosts won the toss and decided to bat first. They were skittled out for a paltry 160 runs as the likes of Jos Hazlewood, Pat Cummins and Matthew Kuhnemann picked up two wickets apiece. In reply, Australia chased down the target comfortably with the help of crucial knocks from Alex Carey (45) and Marnus Labuschagne (31). Despite losing the final game by 4 wickets, Sri Lanka clinched the series 3-2 to register a historic series win against the Aussies.

'We are generally the enemy': Glenn Maxwell left in awe after special gesture from Sri Lankan fans in Colombo

<p>Asad Rauf umpired in as many as 170 international games, comprising&nbsp;49 Tests, 98 ODIs and 23 T20Is. He made a career out of cricket and was part of ICC's elite panel of umpires as well. During his umpiring career, spanning from 2000 to 2013, Rauf dealt with a major blow after allegations of match-fixing were levelled against him during the infamous IPL 2013 edition in India. Back then, the veteran umpire was accused of accepting expensive gifts from bookies as well as&nbsp;placing bets in several games during the&nbsp;sixth edition of the cash-rich league.</p>

<p>In early 2016, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) imposed a five-year ban on Rauf, for corrupt practices and tarnishing the reputation of the game, which essentially ended his umpiring stint once and for all. At present, he runs&nbsp;two shops in Landa Bazar, Lahore (one that deals with selling second-hand apparel and the other&nbsp;of crockeries). Thus, Rauf has moved on from the infamous episode and claimed to have not been following the gentlemen's game since 2013.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During a recent interview with a Pakistani news channel, Paktv.tv, Rauf stated, "No, I’ve umpired in so many games all my life, there’s no one left to see now. I haven’t been in touch with the game since 2013, because once I leave something I leave it completely,” he further responded.</p>

<p>On the match-fixing allegations, Rauf opined, "I have spent my best time in IPL, apart from these issues that came later on,” he said. “I had nothing to do with these issues, the allegations came from the BCCI’s side and they took the decision on me themselves."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pains-me-to-see-such-a-big-player-kapil-dev-opines-on-superstar-virat-kohlis-century-drought-491013">'Pains me to see such a big player.....': Kapil Dev opines on superstar Virat Kohli's century drought</a></strong></p>

<p>In 2012, there was a serious allegation against Rauf when a Mumbai model had levelled charges of sexual exploitation. She had&nbsp;further mentioned that the two had an affair and it was prolonged due to Rauf's promise of marrying her. However, she claimed that he had&nbsp;later backed out.&nbsp;</p>

<p>To this, Rauf said, "<em>Ladki waala maamla jab aaya tha, toh mai to uske agle saal bhi IPL krwane gaya tha</em>&nbsp;(Even after the allegations from the girl, I had umpired in the IPL next season)."</p>

<p>He concluded by saying, "<em>Meri aadat hai, jis kaam ko shuru karta hu uski peak pe jaata hu. Maine landai ka kaam shuru kiya hai, iski bhi peak pe mai gaya hu. Maine cricket kheli hai toh iski bhi peak pe mai gaya hu. Aur phir maine umpiring shuru ki, toh maine socha ki iski bhi peak pe hi jaana chahiye</em>&nbsp;(It is my habit to reach the peak of whatever work I do. I started work as a shopkeeper, I have reached its peak. I played cricket, I reached the peak. And then when I started out as an umpire, I said to myself that I need to reach the peak here as well)."</p>


Asad Rauf umpired in as many as 170 international games, comprising 49 Tests, 98 ODIs and 23 T20Is. He made a career out of cricket and was part of ICC's elite panel of umpires as well.

Asad Rauf umpired in as many as 170 international games, comprising 49 Tests, 98 ODIs and 23 T20Is. He made a career out of cricket and was part of ICC's elite panel of umpires as well. During his umpiring career, spanning from 2000 to 2013, Rauf dealt with a major blow after allegations of match-fixing were levelled against him during the infamous IPL 2013 edition in India. Back then, the veteran umpire was accused of accepting expensive gifts from bookies as well as placing bets in several games during the sixth edition of the cash-rich league. In early 2016, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) imposed a five-year ban on Rauf, for corrupt practices and tarnishing the reputation of the game, which essentially ended his umpiring stint once and for all. At present, he runs two shops in Landa Bazar, Lahore (one that deals with selling second-hand apparel and the other of crockeries). Thus, Rauf has moved on from the infamous episode and claimed to have not been following the gentlemen's game since 2013. During a recent interview with a Pakistani news channel, Paktv.tv, Rauf stated, "No, I’ve umpired in so many games all my life, there’s no one left to see now. I haven’t been in touch with the game since 2013, because once I leave something I leave it completely,” he further responded. On the match-fixing allegations, Rauf opined, "I have spent my best time in IPL, apart from these issues that came later on,” he said. “I had nothing to do with these issues, the allegations came from the BCCI’s side and they took the decision on me themselves." ALSO READ | 'Pains me to see such a big player.....': Kapil Dev opines on superstar Virat Kohli's century drought In 2012, there was a serious allegation against Rauf when a Mumbai model had levelled charges of sexual exploitation. She had further mentioned that the two had an affair and it was prolonged due to Rauf's promise of marrying her. However, she claimed that he had later backed out. To this, Rauf said, "Ladki waala maamla jab aaya tha, toh mai to uske agle saal bhi IPL krwane gaya tha (Even after the allegations from the girl, I had umpired in the IPL next season)." He concluded by saying, "Meri aadat hai, jis kaam ko shuru karta hu uski peak pe jaata hu. Maine landai ka kaam shuru kiya hai, iski bhi peak pe mai gaya hu. Maine cricket kheli hai toh iski bhi peak pe mai gaya hu. Aur phir maine umpiring shuru ki, toh maine socha ki iski bhi peak pe hi jaana chahiye (It is my habit to reach the peak of whatever work I do. I started work as a shopkeeper, I have reached its peak. I played cricket, I reached the peak. And then when I started out as an umpire, I said to myself that I need to reach the peak here as well)."

Tainted umpire Asad Rauf, who now owns two shops in Lahore, claims of not following cricket since 2013

<p>India are all set to take on county team Leicestershire in a four-day warm-up match ahead of the much-awaited one-off fifth Test against England in Edgbaston. The four-day practice match between India and Leicestershire will get underway on June 23 at the Leicestershire County Ground. The Indian Test squad is already in Leicester as the visitors are preparing for the practice match ahead of the crucial Test against England.</p>

<p>Ahead of the start of the practice match, Leicestershire have confirmed four Indian players will be turning up for them against India in the warm-up encounter. Wicket-keeper batter Rishabh Pant, fast bowlers Jasprit Bumrah, Prasidh Krishna and veteran batter Cheteshwar Pujara are the Indian players who will be playing for Leicestershire in the warm-up game against India.</p>

<p>Sam Evans will lead the Leicestershire county team against Rohit Sharma's India in the four-day match which will be a perfect warm-up for the Indian team ahead of the big clash against England in Edgbaston. Both India and&nbsp;Leicestershire will have 13 player each in their team for the warm-up game.</p>

<p>"LCCC, BCCI, and the ECB have all agreed to allow the four players from the visiting camp to be part of the Running Foxes side, in order to allow all members of the traveling party to participate in the fixture (subject to fitness)," Leicestershire said in a statement.</p>

<p>"The match will be played with 13 players per side to provide further flexibility and help manage bowling workloads," the county club added.</p>

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<p>Leicestershire also confirmed that senior Indian spinner R Ashwin will not be part of the warm-up match between the two sides. Ashwin has missed his flight to England last week after testing positive for COVID-19. While he has recovered and is expected to join the rest of the squad soon, he will not be fit in time for the practice match.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-has-happened-because-of-him-ex-pakistan-captain-blames-ravi-shastri-for-virat-kohlis-poor-form-490666">'This has happened because of him': Ex-Pakistan captain blames Ravi Shastri for Virat Kohli's poor form</a></p>

<p>India are also without their opening batter and vice-captain KL Rahul, who will miss the England Test due to a groin injury. In his absence, skipper Rohit is likely to open the innings with Shubman Gill. The likes of Rohit, Kohli, Gill and Pujara will all be hoping to get some runs behind their back in the warm-up match ahead of the Edgbaston Test against England.</p>


India are all set to take on county team Leicestershire in a four-day warm-up match ahead of the much-awaited one-off fifth Test against England in Edgbaston. The four-day practice match between India and Leicestershire will get underway on June 23 at the Leicestershire County Ground.

India are all set to take on county team Leicestershire in a four-day warm-up match ahead of the much-awaited one-off fifth Test against England in Edgbaston. The four-day practice match between India and Leicestershire will get underway on June 23 at the Leicestershire County Ground. The Indian Test squad is already in Leicester as the visitors are preparing for the practice match ahead of the crucial Test against England. Ahead of the start of the practice match, Leicestershire have confirmed four Indian players will be turning up for them against India in the warm-up encounter. Wicket-keeper batter Rishabh Pant, fast bowlers Jasprit Bumrah, Prasidh Krishna and veteran batter Cheteshwar Pujara are the Indian players who will be playing for Leicestershire in the warm-up game against India. Sam Evans will lead the Leicestershire county team against Rohit Sharma's India in the four-day match which will be a perfect warm-up for the Indian team ahead of the big clash against England in Edgbaston. Both India and Leicestershire will have 13 player each in their team for the warm-up game. "LCCC, BCCI, and the ECB have all agreed to allow the four players from the visiting camp to be part of the Running Foxes side, in order to allow all members of the traveling party to participate in the fixture (subject to fitness)," Leicestershire said in a statement. "The match will be played with 13 players per side to provide further flexibility and help manage bowling workloads," the county club added. Also Read: Joe Root on cusp of surpassing Virat Kohli and Steve Smith in elite list in 3rd Test against New Zealand Leicestershire also confirmed that senior Indian spinner R Ashwin will not be part of the warm-up match between the two sides. Ashwin has missed his flight to England last week after testing positive for COVID-19. While he has recovered and is expected to join the rest of the squad soon, he will not be fit in time for the practice match. Also Read: 'This has happened because of him': Ex-Pakistan captain blames Ravi Shastri for Virat Kohli's poor form India are also without their opening batter and vice-captain KL Rahul, who will miss the England Test due to a groin injury. In his absence, skipper Rohit is likely to open the innings with Shubman Gill. The likes of Rohit, Kohli, Gill and Pujara will all be hoping to get some runs behind their back in the warm-up match ahead of the Edgbaston Test against England.

Jasprit Bumrah and Rishabh Pant among 4 Indian players to play for Leicestershire in warm-up match

<p>The deadly Covid-19 virus has affected several star athletes since its advent in early 2000. Former Pakistan skipper Zaheer Abbas is the latest to have contracted&nbsp;the infection. The legendary cricketer has been admitted to the ICU in Saint Mary’s Hospital in Paddington, in the city of Westminster in London, after being&nbsp; Covid-19 positive&nbsp;a&nbsp;few days back.</p>

<p>As per a report on Pakistan news Channel Goe News, Abbas was on oxygen support and after a couple of days,&nbsp;the situation continued to go downhill as the&nbsp;former opener has been shifted to a private hospital.</p>

<p id="1">According to reports, Abbas contracted COVID-19 positive when he was enroute to England from Dubai. He firstly complained of kidney pain and was then diagnosed with pneumonia after arriving&nbsp;in London.</p>

<p id="2">“He is currently on dialysis and the doctors have advised him to refrain from meeting people," the sources said as per quoted by Geo News.</p>

<p id="3">For the unversed, the ex-Pakistani cricketer Abbas is on dialysis and is feeling weak so meeting him has been strictly prohibited, opined the source.</p>

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<p id="5">Abbas, who amassed 5,062 runs in 72 Tests and 2,572 runs in ODIs, was one of the best batters of his generation. Post retirement, he served as an ICC match referee but didn't have a long stint, donning the role&nbsp;in only a solitary Test and three ODIs. In 2020, Abbas was&nbsp;inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame along with South Africa's all-rounder&nbsp;Jacques Kallis and Australia women's cricketer Lisa Sthalekar.</p>

<p>Wishes have been pouring in for the legendary 74-year-old cricketer on social media platforms. The likes of Mohammad Hafeez, Alan Wilkins, and many of Abbas' ardent fans have expressed their concerns and wished for his speedy recovery.</p>


The deadly Covid-19 virus has affected several star athletes since its advent in early 2000. Former Pakistan skipper Zaheer Abbas is the latest to have contracted the infection.

The deadly Covid-19 virus has affected several star athletes since its advent in early 2000. Former Pakistan skipper Zaheer Abbas is the latest to have contracted the infection. The legendary cricketer has been admitted to the ICU in Saint Mary’s Hospital in Paddington, in the city of Westminster in London, after being Covid-19 positive a few days back. As per a report on Pakistan news Channel Goe News, Abbas was on oxygen support and after a couple of days, the situation continued to go downhill as the former opener has been shifted to a private hospital. According to reports, Abbas contracted COVID-19 positive when he was enroute to England from Dubai. He firstly complained of kidney pain and was then diagnosed with pneumonia after arriving in London. “He is currently on dialysis and the doctors have advised him to refrain from meeting people," the sources said as per quoted by Geo News. For the unversed, the ex-Pakistani cricketer Abbas is on dialysis and is feeling weak so meeting him has been strictly prohibited, opined the source. ALSO READ | R Ashwin to join Indian squad in England in next couple of days after missing flight due to COVID-19 Abbas, who amassed 5,062 runs in 72 Tests and 2,572 runs in ODIs, was one of the best batters of his generation. Post retirement, he served as an ICC match referee but didn't have a long stint, donning the role in only a solitary Test and three ODIs. In 2020, Abbas was inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame along with South Africa's all-rounder Jacques Kallis and Australia women's cricketer Lisa Sthalekar. Wishes have been pouring in for the legendary 74-year-old cricketer on social media platforms. The likes of Mohammad Hafeez, Alan Wilkins, and many of Abbas' ardent fans have expressed their concerns and wished for his speedy recovery.

Former Pakistan skipper Zaheer Abbas tests Covid positive, admitted to ICU of private hospital in London

<p>Joe Root has been enjoying a purple patch with the willow in the ongoing Test series between England and New Zealand. He has been England's top run-getter so far in the series and will be looking to continue his fine form when the two sides lock horns with each other in the third and final Test at the Headingley in Leeds which gets underway from Thursday (June 23).</p>

<p>England have already clinched the three-match series 2-0 with back-to-back wins in the first two Test matches. They will be now hoping to go for a clean sweep in the third Test while New Zealand will be aiming to avoid a complete whitewash. The spotlight will once again be on Root, who has been in brilliant touch for the hosts.</p>

<p>Root is on the verge of surpassing Steve Smith and Virat Kohli in an elite list as the two teams gear up for the final third Test of the series. With 27 centuries in Test cricket so far, Root is currently at the 17th spot on the list of batters with most Test hundreds and will need another hundred to go past Kohli and Smith, who are tied with him at the 17th spot.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-has-happened-because-of-him-ex-pakistan-captain-blames-ravi-shastri-for-virat-kohlis-poor-form-490666">'This has happened because of him': Ex-Pakistan captain blames Ravi Shastri for Virat Kohli's poor form</a></p>

<p>Along with Kohli and Smith, the likes of South Africa legend Graeme Smith and Australian great Allan Border are also at the 17th spot with 27 centuries to their name. While Kohli and Smith have not scored a hundred in the longest format since the resumption of cricket post COVID-19 in 2020, Root has been in sublime form and has been shattering records one after another.</p>

<p>Root has already scored ten centuries in Test cricket since 2021 and has been unstoppable in the whites for England. He has so far scored centuries in both the Test matches against New Zealand in the ongoing series and will be looking to complete a hat-trick of centuries in the final third Test starting from Thursday (June 23).</p>

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<p>Root has so far notched up 305 runs in the two Tests against the Kiwis averaging 101.67, including two centuries. After scoring 115 runs in the second innings of the first Test to guide England to a win, Root slammed a brilliant knock of 176 runs in the first innings of the second Test to help England clinch the series 2-0 with two straight victories.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Joe Root has been enjoying a purple patch with the willow in the ongoing Test series between England and New Zealand. He has been England's top run-getter so far in the series and will be looking to continue his fine form when the two sides lock horns with each other in the third and final Test at the Headingley in Leeds which gets underway from Thursday (June 23).

Joe Root has been enjoying a purple patch with the willow in the ongoing Test series between England and New Zealand. He has been England's top run-getter so far in the series and will be looking to continue his fine form when the two sides lock horns with each other in the third and final Test at the Headingley in Leeds which gets underway from Thursday (June 23). England have already clinched the three-match series 2-0 with back-to-back wins in the first two Test matches. They will be now hoping to go for a clean sweep in the third Test while New Zealand will be aiming to avoid a complete whitewash. The spotlight will once again be on Root, who has been in brilliant touch for the hosts. Root is on the verge of surpassing Steve Smith and Virat Kohli in an elite list as the two teams gear up for the final third Test of the series. With 27 centuries in Test cricket so far, Root is currently at the 17th spot on the list of batters with most Test hundreds and will need another hundred to go past Kohli and Smith, who are tied with him at the 17th spot. Also Read: 'This has happened because of him': Ex-Pakistan captain blames Ravi Shastri for Virat Kohli's poor form Along with Kohli and Smith, the likes of South Africa legend Graeme Smith and Australian great Allan Border are also at the 17th spot with 27 centuries to their name. While Kohli and Smith have not scored a hundred in the longest format since the resumption of cricket post COVID-19 in 2020, Root has been in sublime form and has been shattering records one after another. Root has already scored ten centuries in Test cricket since 2021 and has been unstoppable in the whites for England. He has so far scored centuries in both the Test matches against New Zealand in the ongoing series and will be looking to complete a hat-trick of centuries in the final third Test starting from Thursday (June 23). Also Read: 'Hardik Pandya is the most valuable T20 cricketer in the world': Former Australia cricketer lauds all-rounder Root has so far notched up 305 runs in the two Tests against the Kiwis averaging 101.67, including two centuries. After scoring 115 runs in the second innings of the first Test to guide England to a win, Root slammed a brilliant knock of 176 runs in the first innings of the second Test to help England clinch the series 2-0 with two straight victories.

Joe Root on cusp of surpassing Virat Kohli and Steve Smith in elite list in 3rd Test against New Zealand

<p>An unheralded bunch of Madhya Pradesh bowlers stuck to its plans as a star-studded Mumbai side toiled its way to 248 for five on the first day of the Ranji Trophy final here. Despite an opening stand of 87 between Prithvi Shaw (47, 79 balls) and Yashasvi Jaiswal (78, 163 balls), Mumbai failed to drive home the advantage on a pitch that wasn't conducive for strokeplay.</p>

<p>A 400-plus first-innings total will now depend on the season's highest run-getter Sarfaraz Khan (40 batting, 125 balls), who is looking good for another big knock with the dependable Shams Mulani (12 batting, 43 balls) giving him company.</p>

<p>While left-arm spinner Kumar Kartikeya was the tireless operator from one end, having sent down 31 overs for figures of 1 for 91, seamer Gaurav Yadav (23-5-68-0) was distinctly unlucky and the wickets column don't reflect the relentless pressure that he put on Mumbai batters, especially skipper Shaw.</p>

<p>In fact, it was the pressure applied by Yadav which helped nippy seamer Anubhav Agarwal (19-3-56-2) and tall off-spinner Saransh Jain (17-2-31-2) to share the bulk of the spoils, with some intelligent execution of plans.</p>

<p>Mumbai did enjoy the advantage during the first hour after Shaw opted to bat and, along with Jaiswal, took on the MP attack. The strategy to start with Kartikeya's slow left-arm orthodox seemed to have backfired when Jaiswal took him on and lofted him over long-on for a six.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hardik-pandya-is-the-most-valuable-t20-cricketer-in-the-world-former-australia-cricketer-lauds-all-rounder-490709">'Hardik Pandya is the most valuable T20 cricketer in the world': Former Australia cricketer lauds all-rounder</a></p>

<p>Shaw followed suit and hit Kartikeya over long-off for a six as they added 87 for the first wicket. But while Jaiswal, with his drives and upper cuts, looked to continue from where he left in the semi-final, Shaw, despite his seven fours (at least three of them behind square) looked edgy.</p>

<p>Both the seamers, Anubhav and Gaurav, got some movement in the air with a nice cloud cover helping their cause. They also hit the perfect length with movement off the pitch in both directions, into and away from the batter. Both look run-of-the-mill medium pacers but are deceptively quicker than they actually look.</p>

<p>In fact, the best over of the first day was the 12th of the Mumbai innings when Gaurav first cut Shaw into half with a massive in-cutter and then bowled the outgoing deliveries, beating the bat as many as five times in six balls.<br />
By the end of the over, he was in his hunches.</p>

<p>Jaiswal, at the other end, scored his first 30 runs in 52 balls, but then, gauging the two-paced nature of the pitch, started playing more cautiously. His next 48 runs came in another 111 deliveries. The first breakthrough came minutes before lunch break when Anubhav, who was bowling closer to the stumps, decided to move slightly wide and fired in a couple of deliveries with the angle.</p>

<p>While Shaw managed to defend one, the second delivery saw him play across the line and the stumps rattled.<br />
Arman Jaffer (26 off 56 balls) looked solid till he tried a forward-defensive jab off Kartikeya, without factoring in the extra bounce, and the ball took an inside edge off his bat and Yash Dubey, at short mid-wicket, completed a diving catch.</p>

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<p>The pitch in the second session slowed down considerably and Suved Parkar (18) paid the price when a delivery from Saransh stopped on him and the leading edge off closed bat face just lobbed up for the easiest of catches for rival captain Aditya Shrivastava.</p>

<p>The dismissal that was most well-planned was that of Jaiswal, who was closing in on a fourth hundred of the season.<br />
Anubhav, who had started operating wide of the crease, started cramping the left-hander for room. As he was finding it difficult to get the boundaries, Jaiswal, without much room, tried the square cut but failed to keep it down and Dubey at gully took a sharp low catch.</p>

<p>Hardik Tamore (24) was living dangerously till Saransh got some drift and the delivery straightened after pitching, taking the outside edge into Rajat Patidar's hands in the first slip.</p>


An unheralded bunch of Madhya Pradesh bowlers stuck to its plans as a star-studded Mumbai side toiled its way to 248 for five on the first day of the Ranji Trophy final here.

An unheralded bunch of Madhya Pradesh bowlers stuck to its plans as a star-studded Mumbai side toiled its way to 248 for five on the first day of the Ranji Trophy final here. Despite an opening stand of 87 between Prithvi Shaw (47, 79 balls) and Yashasvi Jaiswal (78, 163 balls), Mumbai failed to drive home the advantage on a pitch that wasn't conducive for strokeplay. A 400-plus first-innings total will now depend on the season's highest run-getter Sarfaraz Khan (40 batting, 125 balls), who is looking good for another big knock with the dependable Shams Mulani (12 batting, 43 balls) giving him company. While left-arm spinner Kumar Kartikeya was the tireless operator from one end, having sent down 31 overs for figures of 1 for 91, seamer Gaurav Yadav (23-5-68-0) was distinctly unlucky and the wickets column don't reflect the relentless pressure that he put on Mumbai batters, especially skipper Shaw. In fact, it was the pressure applied by Yadav which helped nippy seamer Anubhav Agarwal (19-3-56-2) and tall off-spinner Saransh Jain (17-2-31-2) to share the bulk of the spoils, with some intelligent execution of plans. Mumbai did enjoy the advantage during the first hour after Shaw opted to bat and, along with Jaiswal, took on the MP attack. The strategy to start with Kartikeya's slow left-arm orthodox seemed to have backfired when Jaiswal took him on and lofted him over long-on for a six. Also Read: 'Hardik Pandya is the most valuable T20 cricketer in the world': Former Australia cricketer lauds all-rounder Shaw followed suit and hit Kartikeya over long-off for a six as they added 87 for the first wicket. But while Jaiswal, with his drives and upper cuts, looked to continue from where he left in the semi-final, Shaw, despite his seven fours (at least three of them behind square) looked edgy. Both the seamers, Anubhav and Gaurav, got some movement in the air with a nice cloud cover helping their cause. They also hit the perfect length with movement off the pitch in both directions, into and away from the batter. Both look run-of-the-mill medium pacers but are deceptively quicker than they actually look. In fact, the best over of the first day was the 12th of the Mumbai innings when Gaurav first cut Shaw into half with a massive in-cutter and then bowled the outgoing deliveries, beating the bat as many as five times in six balls. By the end of the over, he was in his hunches. Jaiswal, at the other end, scored his first 30 runs in 52 balls, but then, gauging the two-paced nature of the pitch, started playing more cautiously. His next 48 runs came in another 111 deliveries. The first breakthrough came minutes before lunch break when Anubhav, who was bowling closer to the stumps, decided to move slightly wide and fired in a couple of deliveries with the angle. While Shaw managed to defend one, the second delivery saw him play across the line and the stumps rattled. Arman Jaffer (26 off 56 balls) looked solid till he tried a forward-defensive jab off Kartikeya, without factoring in the extra bounce, and the ball took an inside edge off his bat and Yash Dubey, at short mid-wicket, completed a diving catch. Also Read: 'This has happened because of him': Ex-Pakistan captain blames Ravi Shastri for Virat Kohli's poor form The pitch in the second session slowed down considerably and Suved Parkar (18) paid the price when a delivery from Saransh stopped on him and the leading edge off closed bat face just lobbed up for the easiest of catches for rival captain Aditya Shrivastava. The dismissal that was most well-planned was that of Jaiswal, who was closing in on a fourth hundred of the season. Anubhav, who had started operating wide of the crease, started cramping the left-hander for room. As he was finding it difficult to get the boundaries, Jaiswal, without much room, tried the square cut but failed to keep it down and Dubey at gully took a sharp low catch. Hardik Tamore (24) was living dangerously till Saransh got some drift and the delivery straightened after pitching, taking the outside edge into Rajat Patidar's hands in the first slip.

Ranji Trophy final: Yashasvi Jasiwal shines but Disciplined MP keep Mumbai at 248/5 on Day 1

<p>Former Australia spinner Brad Hogg has called star Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya the most valuable T20 cricketer in the world at present. Speaking in a video on his YouTube channel where he picked the stand-out performers in international cricket in the past month, Hogg lauded Pandya for his ability to adapt and deliver under pressure for his teams.</p>

<p>Pandya made his comeback into the Indian team in the recently-concluded T20I series against South Africa after a phenomenal IPL 2022 campaign for his team Gujarat Titans (GT). While he led from the front with the bat for the Titans to finish as their highest run-getter in IPL 2022, Pandya also stepped up with the ball when his team required.</p>

<p>He continued his fine form in the T20I series against the Proteas and scored 117in 4 innings averaging over 58 and striking at an impressive 153.95. He played a brilliant cameo of 31-ball 46 in the 4th T20I against South Africa under pressure to help India win by 82 runs. Lauding Pandya, Hogg said not many can strike the ball from the word go in the death overs like the India all-rounder.</p>

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<p>"Players who have really impressed me over the last month, that really love those pressure situations, are Daryl Mitchell from New Zealand, and Hardik Pandya from India," said Hogg in the video.</p>

<p>"He wants those tough moments when his team's back is against the wall, he wants to go out there and deliver, whether it's with bat or ball. He is adaptable: the other night he came into those final overs and was able to find the boundary from ball one. Not many people can do that. And he can go up and do a job at the top of the order if they lose early wickets as well," the former Aussie spinner added.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-has-happened-because-of-him-ex-pakistan-captain-blames-ravi-shastri-for-virat-kohlis-poor-form-490666">'This has happened because of him': Ex-Pakistan captain blames Ravi Shastri for Virat Kohli's poor form</a></p>

<p>Pandya was instrumental in leading Gujarat Titans to their maiden IPL title in their debut season this year. Captaining a side for the first time in his IPL career, Pandya batted at number four for his team and led by example. He also produced a Man-of-the-Match performance in the final against the Rajasthan Royals with a 3-wicket haul and 34 runs in the game.</p>

<p>Hogg hailed Pandya as the most valuable T20 cricketer in the world at present and said he should be ahead of KL Rahul in the pecking order to lead Team India in T20Is in the absence of Rohit Sharma.</p>

<p>"He is the most valuable T20 cricketer going around in world cricket right now. Hardik Pandya should be captain of this T20 team in front of Rahul," said Hogg.</p>


Former Australia spinner Brad Hogg has called star Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya the most valuable T20 cricketer in the world at present. Speaking in a video on his YouTube channel where he picked the stand-out performers in international cricket in the past month, Hogg lauded Pandya for his ability to adapt and deliver under pressure for his teams.

Former Australia spinner Brad Hogg has called star Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya the most valuable T20 cricketer in the world at present. Speaking in a video on his YouTube channel where he picked the stand-out performers in international cricket in the past month, Hogg lauded Pandya for his ability to adapt and deliver under pressure for his teams. Pandya made his comeback into the Indian team in the recently-concluded T20I series against South Africa after a phenomenal IPL 2022 campaign for his team Gujarat Titans (GT). While he led from the front with the bat for the Titans to finish as their highest run-getter in IPL 2022, Pandya also stepped up with the ball when his team required. He continued his fine form in the T20I series against the Proteas and scored 117in 4 innings averaging over 58 and striking at an impressive 153.95. He played a brilliant cameo of 31-ball 46 in the 4th T20I against South Africa under pressure to help India win by 82 runs. Lauding Pandya, Hogg said not many can strike the ball from the word go in the death overs like the India all-rounder. Also Read: Pakistan pacer Hasan Ali trolled on Instagram by moral police after sharing pictures of his wife "Players who have really impressed me over the last month, that really love those pressure situations, are Daryl Mitchell from New Zealand, and Hardik Pandya from India," said Hogg in the video. "He wants those tough moments when his team's back is against the wall, he wants to go out there and deliver, whether it's with bat or ball. He is adaptable: the other night he came into those final overs and was able to find the boundary from ball one. Not many people can do that. And he can go up and do a job at the top of the order if they lose early wickets as well," the former Aussie spinner added. Also Read: 'This has happened because of him': Ex-Pakistan captain blames Ravi Shastri for Virat Kohli's poor form Pandya was instrumental in leading Gujarat Titans to their maiden IPL title in their debut season this year. Captaining a side for the first time in his IPL career, Pandya batted at number four for his team and led by example. He also produced a Man-of-the-Match performance in the final against the Rajasthan Royals with a 3-wicket haul and 34 runs in the game. Hogg hailed Pandya as the most valuable T20 cricketer in the world at present and said he should be ahead of KL Rahul in the pecking order to lead Team India in T20Is in the absence of Rohit Sharma. "He is the most valuable T20 cricketer going around in world cricket right now. Hardik Pandya should be captain of this T20 team in front of Rahul," said Hogg.

'Hardik Pandya is the most valuable T20 cricketer in the world': Former Australia cricketer lauds all-rounder

<p>Former New Zealand pacer Simon Doull has made a bold suggestion to Kane Williamson, urging him to step down as Test captain of the Kiwis to prolong his career. Williamson has not been in the best of forms with the bat recently and has led New Zealand in just two Test matches since the World Test Championship (WTC) final against India last year. Doull wants Williamson to get rid of the extra burden off his shoulders and focus on his batting in the longest format.</p>

<p>Williamson has been one of the best batters to have played for New Zealand and has been leading the side across all three formats since 2016. However, his recent dip in form has raised questions over his longevity as captain of the Test team. While Doull hailed Williamson as one of the best to have played for New Zealand, he suggested he leave Test captaincy.</p>

<p>“I just don’t know about the longevity of Kane Williamson the captain,” Doull told <em>The Guardian</em> ahead of the third Test between England and New Zealand at Headingley, Leeds.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“He is without doubt the best player we’ve ever produced outside of Sir Richard Hadlee. He is world class and I’d love him to be just the best player we’ve ever seen and if that means giving up the Test captaincy to prolong his career, I think he should."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-has-happened-because-of-him-ex-pakistan-captain-blames-ravi-shastri-for-virat-kohlis-poor-form-490666">'This has happened because of him': Ex-Pakistan captain blames Ravi Shastri for Virat Kohli's poor form</a></p>

<p>Williamson is currently leading New Zealand in their ongoing three-match Test series against England. The Kiwis have already lost the series after back-to-back defeats in the first two matches at the Lord's and Trent Bridge. Doull believes Williamson should give up captaincy after the third Test and lead New Zealand in just ODIs and T20Is.</p>

<p>“He’s never been a lover of doing the media he’s just not that guy he’s a real cricket guy, he loves the game, studies the game. I just don’t know that he can sustain all three formats. I would rather he was just New Zealand’s one-day and T20 captain,” said the former New Zealand fast bowler.</p>

<p>Doull also backed Tom Latham to be Williamson's successor as the next Test captain of the Black Caps and said it was the easiest time for Williamson to let the transition happen.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“When you’ve got a really worthy replacement, and Tom Latham is. I think that is the easiest time to transition and walk away from it. New Zealand don’t play another Test until the autumn [after Headingley], so it is not a bad time after the Leeds Test to do it," said Doull.</p>

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<p>Williamson has so far led New Zealand in a total of 39 Test matches as captain and has a terrific record with 22 wins and just 9 losses. He is the second-most successful Test captain for the Kiwis after the legendary Stephen Fleming. Under Williamson, New Zealand had won the inaugural edition of the World Test Championship after beating India in the final last year.</p>


Former New Zealand pacer Simon Doull has made a bold suggestion to Kane Williamson, urging him to step down as Test captain of the Kiwis to prolong his career. Williamson has not been in the best of forms with the bat recently and has led New Zealand in just two Test matches since the World Test Championship (WTC) final against India last year.

Former New Zealand pacer Simon Doull has made a bold suggestion to Kane Williamson, urging him to step down as Test captain of the Kiwis to prolong his career. Williamson has not been in the best of forms with the bat recently and has led New Zealand in just two Test matches since the World Test Championship (WTC) final against India last year. Doull wants Williamson to get rid of the extra burden off his shoulders and focus on his batting in the longest format. Williamson has been one of the best batters to have played for New Zealand and has been leading the side across all three formats since 2016. However, his recent dip in form has raised questions over his longevity as captain of the Test team. While Doull hailed Williamson as one of the best to have played for New Zealand, he suggested he leave Test captaincy. “I just don’t know about the longevity of Kane Williamson the captain,” Doull told The Guardian ahead of the third Test between England and New Zealand at Headingley, Leeds. “He is without doubt the best player we’ve ever produced outside of Sir Richard Hadlee. He is world class and I’d love him to be just the best player we’ve ever seen and if that means giving up the Test captaincy to prolong his career, I think he should." Also Read: 'This has happened because of him': Ex-Pakistan captain blames Ravi Shastri for Virat Kohli's poor form Williamson is currently leading New Zealand in their ongoing three-match Test series against England. The Kiwis have already lost the series after back-to-back defeats in the first two matches at the Lord's and Trent Bridge. Doull believes Williamson should give up captaincy after the third Test and lead New Zealand in just ODIs and T20Is. “He’s never been a lover of doing the media he’s just not that guy he’s a real cricket guy, he loves the game, studies the game. I just don’t know that he can sustain all three formats. I would rather he was just New Zealand’s one-day and T20 captain,” said the former New Zealand fast bowler. Doull also backed Tom Latham to be Williamson's successor as the next Test captain of the Black Caps and said it was the easiest time for Williamson to let the transition happen. “When you’ve got a really worthy replacement, and Tom Latham is. I think that is the easiest time to transition and walk away from it. New Zealand don’t play another Test until the autumn [after Headingley], so it is not a bad time after the Leeds Test to do it," said Doull. Also Read: Pakistan pacer Hasan Ali trolled on Instagram by moral police after sharing pictures of his wife Williamson has so far led New Zealand in a total of 39 Test matches as captain and has a terrific record with 22 wins and just 9 losses. He is the second-most successful Test captain for the Kiwis after the legendary Stephen Fleming. Under Williamson, New Zealand had won the inaugural edition of the World Test Championship after beating India in the final last year.

Kane Williamson should give up Test captaincy to prolong his career, says former New Zealand pacer

<p>Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has made some sensational remarks against ex-India head coach Ravi Shastri, blaming him for the downfall of Virat Kohli. The Indian batting maestro has been enduring a rough patch with the willow across formats for the past few years now. Kohli is yet to score a century in international cricket since November 2019 and has looked far from his best for the Men in Blue.</p>

<p>While he has struggled to deliver consistently for the Indian team, his rough patch continued in the recently-concluded Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022. While Kohli has been scoring runs in patches and has not been completely out of form, his performances still have been below-par considering the standards set by the batting maestro.</p>

<p>One of the best batters in the world at present, Kohli has failed to notch up a big score for India for over 2.5 years now and will be hopeful of sparking a turnaround soon. Speaking about his poor patch, former Pakistan captain&nbsp;Latif recently blamed Shastri for Kohli's abysmal run and said had the former India all-rounder not been appointed as head coach, Kohli would not have been out of form.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-rest-for-virat-kohli-rohit-sharma-duo-likely-to-be-available-for-t20i-series-against-england-report-490582">No rest for Kohli &amp; Rohit, duo likely to be available for T20I series against England - Report</a></p>

<p>"It is because of him (Ravi Shastri) that this has happened. In 2019 (Shastri was appointed as India head coach in 2017), you sidelined a player like Kumble and in came Ravi Shastri. Whether he had the accreditation or not, I have no idea. He was a broadcaster. Had no business in coaching,"&nbsp;Latif said in a video on his YouTube channel.</p>

<p>"Barring Virat Kohli, I am sure there would have been other people who played a role in getting Shastri in. But that is backfiring now, isn't it? Had he (Shastri) not become the coach, he (Kohli) wouldn’t have gone out (of form)," he added.</p>

<p>Shastri had first worked with the Indian team as a director for two years from 2014 to 2016 before being appointed as the head coach of the team in 2017 following the sacking of Kumble as the head coach. He formed a great relationship with then captain Kohli and the duo enjoyed tremendous success as a coach-captain pair.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/best-acquisition-of-a-player-former-rcb-owner-vijay-mallya-catches-up-with-universe-boss-chris-gayle-490642">'Best acquisition of a player': Former RCB owner Vijay Mallya catches up with&nbsp;Chris Gayle</a></p>

<p>India became a force to reckon with under Shastri and Kohli and were the number one Test team in the world for a long period. They also became the first Asian team to win a historic Test series in Australia in 2018-19. Shastri's contract was renewed ahead of the ICC ODI World Cup in 2019 and he served as India's head coach till 2021.</p>

<p>While India failed to win a major ICC trophy under him, Shastri and Kohli guided India to some memorable series wins both at home and away from home. India won their second straight Test series under Shastri in Australia in 2020-21 in the absence of Kohli.</p>


Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has made some sensational remarks against ex-India head coach Ravi Shastri, blaming him for the downfall of Virat Kohli. The Indian batting maestro has been enduring a rough patch with the willow across formats for the past few years now.

Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has made some sensational remarks against ex-India head coach Ravi Shastri, blaming him for the downfall of Virat Kohli. The Indian batting maestro has been enduring a rough patch with the willow across formats for the past few years now. Kohli is yet to score a century in international cricket since November 2019 and has looked far from his best for the Men in Blue. While he has struggled to deliver consistently for the Indian team, his rough patch continued in the recently-concluded Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022. While Kohli has been scoring runs in patches and has not been completely out of form, his performances still have been below-par considering the standards set by the batting maestro. One of the best batters in the world at present, Kohli has failed to notch up a big score for India for over 2.5 years now and will be hopeful of sparking a turnaround soon. Speaking about his poor patch, former Pakistan captain Latif recently blamed Shastri for Kohli's abysmal run and said had the former India all-rounder not been appointed as head coach, Kohli would not have been out of form. Also Read: No rest for Kohli & Rohit, duo likely to be available for T20I series against England - Report "It is because of him (Ravi Shastri) that this has happened. In 2019 (Shastri was appointed as India head coach in 2017), you sidelined a player like Kumble and in came Ravi Shastri. Whether he had the accreditation or not, I have no idea. He was a broadcaster. Had no business in coaching," Latif said in a video on his YouTube channel. "Barring Virat Kohli, I am sure there would have been other people who played a role in getting Shastri in. But that is backfiring now, isn't it? Had he (Shastri) not become the coach, he (Kohli) wouldn’t have gone out (of form)," he added. Shastri had first worked with the Indian team as a director for two years from 2014 to 2016 before being appointed as the head coach of the team in 2017 following the sacking of Kumble as the head coach. He formed a great relationship with then captain Kohli and the duo enjoyed tremendous success as a coach-captain pair. Also Read: 'Best acquisition of a player': Former RCB owner Vijay Mallya catches up with Chris Gayle India became a force to reckon with under Shastri and Kohli and were the number one Test team in the world for a long period. They also became the first Asian team to win a historic Test series in Australia in 2018-19. Shastri's contract was renewed ahead of the ICC ODI World Cup in 2019 and he served as India's head coach till 2021. While India failed to win a major ICC trophy under him, Shastri and Kohli guided India to some memorable series wins both at home and away from home. India won their second straight Test series under Shastri in Australia in 2020-21 in the absence of Kohli.

'This has happened because of him': Ex-Pakistan captain blames Ravi Shastri for Virat Kohli's poor form

<p>Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) have had a number of superstars play for them in the Indian Premier League (IPL). From the likes of Rahul Dravid, Anil Kumble to Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers and Chris Gayle, RCB have been home to some of the legends of the game. However, despite having a star-studded team over the years, the franchise has failed to lift their&nbsp;maiden IPL title. They have been part of the IPL since its inception in 2008 but have failed to win the tournament even once.</p>

<p>Gayle has arguably been one of RCB's best-ever signings in IPL history and enjoyed tremendous success with the franchise in the IPL. The West Indies legend was incidentally roped in by the franchise as an injury replacement for Australian pacer Dirk Nannes ahead of the 2011 season and went on to prove a sensational signing for the franchise.</p>

<p>Gayle was part of the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) squad for his first two seasons in IPL in 2009 and 2010 before being released by the team. He was then picked by RCB as a replacement for injured Nannes and went on to take IPL 2011 by a storm with 608 runs in just 12 games at an incredible strike rate of 183.13.</p>

<p>He followed it up with more than 700 runs in the next two seasons and established his credentials as one of the best hitters in T20 cricket and famously earned the nickname 'Universe Boss' for his batting exploits. Gayle enjoyed a phenomenal stint at RCB before being released in 2017.</p>

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<p>Former RCB owner Vijay Mallya was one of the key figures behind bringing Gayle to RCB as a replacement for Nannes ahead of the 2011 season. Mallya recently caught up with the West Indies cricketer and called him his best acquisition in IPL. "Great to catch up with my good friend Christopher Henry Gayle @henrygayle , the Universe Boss. Super friendship since I recruited him for RCB. Best acquisition of a player ever," Mallya wrote while sharing a picture with Gayle.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Great to catch up with my good friend Christopher Henry Gayle ⁦<a href="https://twitter.com/henrygayle?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@henrygayle</a>⁩ , the Universe Boss. Super friendship since I recruited him for RCB. Best acquisition of a player ever. <a href="https://t.co/X5Ny9d6n6t">pic.twitter.com/X5Ny9d6n6t</a></p>
— Vijay Mallya (@TheVijayMallya) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheVijayMallya/status/1539402382022410240?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 22, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Mallya had bought RCB for a whopping USD 111.6 million in 2008 and owned the franchise till 2016. He also owned United Spirits, which closed in 2016 before its parent company Diageo took over the Royal Challengers Sports Pvt Ltd (RSCPL) which currently runs RCB in IPL.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-rest-for-virat-kohli-rohit-sharma-duo-likely-to-be-available-for-t20i-series-against-england-report-490582">No rest for Kohli &amp; Rohit, duo likely to be available for T20I series against England - Report</a></p>

<p>Gayle spent seven seasons at RCB from 2011 to 2017 and amassed 3420 runs for the franchise in 91 matches at an average of 43.29 and a strike rate of 154.40. He shattered a plethora of records, including the highest-ever individual score in IPL history while playing for RCB and remains their third-highest run-getter of all time behind only Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers.</p>


Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) have had a number of superstars play for them in the Indian Premier League (IPL). From the likes of Rahul Dravid, Anil Kumble to Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers and Chris Gayle, RCB have been home to some of the legends of the game.

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) have had a number of superstars play for them in the Indian Premier League (IPL). From the likes of Rahul Dravid, Anil Kumble to Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers and Chris Gayle, RCB have been home to some of the legends of the game. However, despite having a star-studded team over the years, the franchise has failed to lift their maiden IPL title. They have been part of the IPL since its inception in 2008 but have failed to win the tournament even once. Gayle has arguably been one of RCB's best-ever signings in IPL history and enjoyed tremendous success with the franchise in the IPL. The West Indies legend was incidentally roped in by the franchise as an injury replacement for Australian pacer Dirk Nannes ahead of the 2011 season and went on to prove a sensational signing for the franchise. Gayle was part of the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) squad for his first two seasons in IPL in 2009 and 2010 before being released by the team. He was then picked by RCB as a replacement for injured Nannes and went on to take IPL 2011 by a storm with 608 runs in just 12 games at an incredible strike rate of 183.13. He followed it up with more than 700 runs in the next two seasons and established his credentials as one of the best hitters in T20 cricket and famously earned the nickname 'Universe Boss' for his batting exploits. Gayle enjoyed a phenomenal stint at RCB before being released in 2017. Also Read: Pakistan pacer Hasan Ali trolled on Instagram by moral police after sharing pictures of his wife Former RCB owner Vijay Mallya was one of the key figures behind bringing Gayle to RCB as a replacement for Nannes ahead of the 2011 season. Mallya recently caught up with the West Indies cricketer and called him his best acquisition in IPL. "Great to catch up with my good friend Christopher Henry Gayle @henrygayle , the Universe Boss. Super friendship since I recruited him for RCB. Best acquisition of a player ever," Mallya wrote while sharing a picture with Gayle. Great to catch up with my good friend Christopher Henry Gayle ⁦@henrygayle⁩ , the Universe Boss. Super friendship since I recruited him for RCB. Best acquisition of a player ever. pic.twitter.com/X5Ny9d6n6t — Vijay Mallya (@TheVijayMallya) June 22, 2022 × Mallya had bought RCB for a whopping USD 111.6 million in 2008 and owned the franchise till 2016. He also owned United Spirits, which closed in 2016 before its parent company Diageo took over the Royal Challengers Sports Pvt Ltd (RSCPL) which currently runs RCB in IPL. Also Read: No rest for Kohli & Rohit, duo likely to be available for T20I series against England - Report Gayle spent seven seasons at RCB from 2011 to 2017 and amassed 3420 runs for the franchise in 91 matches at an average of 43.29 and a strike rate of 154.40. He shattered a plethora of records, including the highest-ever individual score in IPL history while playing for RCB and remains their third-highest run-getter of all time behind only Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers.

'Best acquisition of a player': Former RCB owner Vijay Mallya catches up with 'Universe boss' Chris Gayle

<p>Pakistan pacer Hasan Ali was viciously trolled online by the moral police after he recently shared a couple of pictures with his wife Samiya and their daughter from his vacation in the country. Ali, who is one of the key members of the Pakistan bowling attack across formats, has often been the target of trolls over his performances on the pitch. However, the fast bowler found himself on the receiving end of unnecessary trolling this time around over his wife's clothes and poses in the pictures shared by him.</p>

<p>Ali recently took to Instagram to share some pictures with his family from their vacation in Hunza, Pakistan. The Pakistan pacer can be seen sitting on a boat holding his daughter with his wife alongside them. While many appreciated the&nbsp;scenic photos, some trolls resorted to moral policing.</p>

<p>People went on to question the character and morals of the Pakistani cricketer and his wife while advising him to cover her face. Some also objected to Samiya's choice of clothes and the way she posed for the pictures with her husband. Some even dragged religion into it and asked Hasan to not show his wife's face to the public.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-rest-for-virat-kohli-rohit-sharma-duo-likely-to-be-available-for-t20i-series-against-england-report-490582">No rest for Virat Kohli &amp; Rohit Sharma, duo likely to be available for T20I series against England - Report</a><br />
&nbsp;</p>

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<p>This is not the first time Ali has been troleld on social media for sharing a picture with his wife and has faced&nbsp;abuse and moral policing in the past as well. The Pakistan pacer is currently enjoying his break with the national team not in action. The Pakistan team will be next seen in action when they tour Netherlands for three T20Is in August this year.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sa-t20is-i-would-have-stopped-rishabh-pant-from-becoming-captain-says-former-india-cricketer-490579">I would have stopped Rishabh Pant from becoming captain, says former India cricketer</a></p>

<p>Ali was last seen in action during Pakistan's recently-concluded ODI series against West Indies at home. The fast bowler played two matches in the series and returned with two wickets. He has not managed to get a consistent run for the national team in the recent times and will be hoping to get a long run in the side by impressing with his performances.</p>


Pakistan pacer Hasan Ali was viciously trolled online by the moral police after he recently shared a couple of pictures with his wife Samiya and their daughter from his vacation in the country.

Pakistan pacer Hasan Ali was viciously trolled online by the moral police after he recently shared a couple of pictures with his wife Samiya and their daughter from his vacation in the country. Ali, who is one of the key members of the Pakistan bowling attack across formats, has often been the target of trolls over his performances on the pitch. However, the fast bowler found himself on the receiving end of unnecessary trolling this time around over his wife's clothes and poses in the pictures shared by him. Ali recently took to Instagram to share some pictures with his family from their vacation in Hunza, Pakistan. The Pakistan pacer can be seen sitting on a boat holding his daughter with his wife alongside them. While many appreciated the scenic photos, some trolls resorted to moral policing. People went on to question the character and morals of the Pakistani cricketer and his wife while advising him to cover her face. Some also objected to Samiya's choice of clothes and the way she posed for the pictures with her husband. Some even dragged religion into it and asked Hasan to not show his wife's face to the public. Also Read: No rest for Virat Kohli & Rohit Sharma, duo likely to be available for T20I series against England - Report View this post on Instagram A post shared by Hassan Ali (@ha55an_ali) × This is not the first time Ali has been troleld on social media for sharing a picture with his wife and has faced abuse and moral policing in the past as well. The Pakistan pacer is currently enjoying his break with the national team not in action. The Pakistan team will be next seen in action when they tour Netherlands for three T20Is in August this year. Also Read: I would have stopped Rishabh Pant from becoming captain, says former India cricketer Ali was last seen in action during Pakistan's recently-concluded ODI series against West Indies at home. The fast bowler played two matches in the series and returned with two wickets. He has not managed to get a consistent run for the national team in the recent times and will be hoping to get a long run in the side by impressing with his performances.

Pakistan pacer Hasan Ali trolled on Instagram by moral police after sharing pictures of his wife and daughter

<p>Captain Rohit Sharma and star batter Virat Kohli are likely to be available for selection when India take on England in a three-match T20I series followed by the one-off fifth Test in Edgbaston. Both Kohli and Rohit were last seen in action during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 which concluded last month. The star duo had been rested from India's recently-concluded T20I series against South Africa at home which ended in a 2-2 draw after the 5th game was washed out due to rain.</p>

<p>Kohli, Rohit along with the likes of Jasprit Bumrah, Ravindra Jadeja and others were rested from the South Africa series. The duo will return to action when India begin their tour of England with the one-off fifth Test in Edgbaston from July 01 followed by three T20Is and as many ODIs.</p>

<p>While the members of the Indian Test squad are already in England ahead of the fifth Test, India will field a second-string squad led by all-rounder Hardik Pandya in the two-match T20I series against Ireland before the England T20Is. India will take on Ireland in two T20Is on June 26 and June 28 where VVS Laxman will coach the team.</p>

<p>While there was a possibility that India could field the same second-string T20I squad for the three-match series against England, the selectors are reportedly keen on having a full-strength team take on the hosts in the three matches. The T20I series against England will begin on July 07, just a day after the Edgbaston Test concludes on July 05.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sa-t20is-i-would-have-stopped-rishabh-pant-from-becoming-captain-says-former-india-cricketer-490579">I would have stopped Rishabh Pant from becoming captain, says former India cricketer</a></p>

<p>While it will result in intense fatigue for players like Kohli, Rohit and Bumrh among others if they take the field in the first T20I against England after the Edgbaston Test, they are likely t be available for selection despite just a 1-day break in between. As per a report in Insidesport, all senior players, including Rohit and Virat will be available for the three-match T20I series against England and will not be rested.</p>

<p>“All senior players will be available for the England series. Yes, we have to carry a larger squad because of the two warm-up T20s but Rohit &amp; Virat and other first-team players will be available,” a member of the BCCI selection panel told Insidesport.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-was-hit-by-covid-19-post-maldives-trip-more-cases-feared-in-indian-camp-ahead-of-eng-test-report-490539">Virat Kohli was hit by Covid-19 post Maldives trip, more cases feared in Indian camp&nbsp;</a></p>

<p>In case they feature in the series, it will be Rohit, Kohli and Bumrah's first international T20I assignment following the conclusion of IPL 2022. India have named a second-string squad for Ireland T20Is which features some of the top performers from IPL including the likes of Sanju Samson, Rahul Tripathi, Umran Malik and Arshdeep Singh. It remains to be seen which of these youngsters will retain their spot in the squad for the England T20Is and who will be asked to head back home.</p>

<p>“We have a set team. We just need to trim it a little for the England series to accommodate the seniors. Some of the guys will return home after the Ireland series. We will have a selection meeting soon. We will have a larger squad for contingency as the team will not be in a bio-bubble,” the member of the selection panel added.</p>


Captain Rohit Sharma and star batter Virat Kohli are likely to be available for selection when India take on England in a three-match T20I series followed by the one-off fifth Test in Edgbaston.

Captain Rohit Sharma and star batter Virat Kohli are likely to be available for selection when India take on England in a three-match T20I series followed by the one-off fifth Test in Edgbaston. Both Kohli and Rohit were last seen in action during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 which concluded last month. The star duo had been rested from India's recently-concluded T20I series against South Africa at home which ended in a 2-2 draw after the 5th game was washed out due to rain. Kohli, Rohit along with the likes of Jasprit Bumrah, Ravindra Jadeja and others were rested from the South Africa series. The duo will return to action when India begin their tour of England with the one-off fifth Test in Edgbaston from July 01 followed by three T20Is and as many ODIs. While the members of the Indian Test squad are already in England ahead of the fifth Test, India will field a second-string squad led by all-rounder Hardik Pandya in the two-match T20I series against Ireland before the England T20Is. India will take on Ireland in two T20Is on June 26 and June 28 where VVS Laxman will coach the team. While there was a possibility that India could field the same second-string T20I squad for the three-match series against England, the selectors are reportedly keen on having a full-strength team take on the hosts in the three matches. The T20I series against England will begin on July 07, just a day after the Edgbaston Test concludes on July 05. Also Read: I would have stopped Rishabh Pant from becoming captain, says former India cricketer While it will result in intense fatigue for players like Kohli, Rohit and Bumrh among others if they take the field in the first T20I against England after the Edgbaston Test, they are likely t be available for selection despite just a 1-day break in between. As per a report in Insidesport, all senior players, including Rohit and Virat will be available for the three-match T20I series against England and will not be rested. “All senior players will be available for the England series. Yes, we have to carry a larger squad because of the two warm-up T20s but Rohit & Virat and other first-team players will be available,” a member of the BCCI selection panel told Insidesport. Also Read: Virat Kohli was hit by Covid-19 post Maldives trip, more cases feared in Indian camp In case they feature in the series, it will be Rohit, Kohli and Bumrah's first international T20I assignment following the conclusion of IPL 2022. India have named a second-string squad for Ireland T20Is which features some of the top performers from IPL including the likes of Sanju Samson, Rahul Tripathi, Umran Malik and Arshdeep Singh. It remains to be seen which of these youngsters will retain their spot in the squad for the England T20Is and who will be asked to head back home. “We have a set team. We just need to trim it a little for the England series to accommodate the seniors. Some of the guys will return home after the Ireland series. We will have a selection meeting soon. We will have a larger squad for contingency as the team will not be in a bio-bubble,” the member of the selection panel added.

No rest for Virat Kohli & Rohit Sharma, duo likely to be available for T20I series against England - Report

<p>India were involved in a closely-fought five-match T20I series versus Temba Bavuma-led South Africa at home. Under Rishabh Pant, India had a plethora of T20 World Cup contenders in their line-up, who competed well against a strong South African XI before the series ended in a stalemate, 2-2, with the final match being abandoned due to persistent rain in Bengaluru.</p>

<p>Though India couldn't win the series, they had plenty of takeaways and would be proud of their fighting spirit to bounce back from 0-2 down. Talking about Pant, he didn't start well as captain -- due to some poor bowling changes -- but improved as the series went by. Despite that, former World Cup-winning member Madan Lal feels the 24-year-old youngster shouldn't have been named captain for the series.</p>

<p>"I would have stopped him from becoming captain. Wouldn't have allowed it. Because such a player needs to be given this responsibility later. Becoming an India captain is a big deal. He is a youngster. He isn't going anywhere anytime soon. The longer he plays, he will gain more maturity," Lal said on Sports Tak.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hell-be-one-of-the-trumps-cards-gavaskar-feels-india-star-will-be-integral-to-rohits-t20-wc-plans-490324">'He'll be one of the trumps cards' - Gavaskar feels India star will be integral to Rohit's T20 WC plans</a></strong></p>

<p>"Over the next two years, if he can take his game to the next level, then he can be a good captain, can deal with things maturely. This is a player of a different nature. MS Dhoni was a quiet and cool captain, which suited him as captain. Virat Kohli is a brilliant batter. I’m not saying Pant shouldn't be swinging his bat but if he can play with a little more maturity, it would be great," Lal explained further.</p>

<p>As a batter, Pant didn't have a great run as he only managed 58 runs at a woeful strike rate of 105.45. The left-hander will next be seen in India's rescheduled fifth and final Test versus England, in Edgbaston, Birmingham, on July 01.</p>


India were involved in a closely-fought five-match T20I series versus Temba Bavuma-led South Africa at home. Under Rishabh Pant, India had a plethora of T20 World Cup contenders in their line-up, who competed well against a strong South African XI before the series ended in a stalemate, 2-2, with the final match being abandoned due to persistent rain in Bengaluru.

India were involved in a closely-fought five-match T20I series versus Temba Bavuma-led South Africa at home. Under Rishabh Pant, India had a plethora of T20 World Cup contenders in their line-up, who competed well against a strong South African XI before the series ended in a stalemate, 2-2, with the final match being abandoned due to persistent rain in Bengaluru. Though India couldn't win the series, they had plenty of takeaways and would be proud of their fighting spirit to bounce back from 0-2 down. Talking about Pant, he didn't start well as captain -- due to some poor bowling changes -- but improved as the series went by. Despite that, former World Cup-winning member Madan Lal feels the 24-year-old youngster shouldn't have been named captain for the series. "I would have stopped him from becoming captain. Wouldn't have allowed it. Because such a player needs to be given this responsibility later. Becoming an India captain is a big deal. He is a youngster. He isn't going anywhere anytime soon. The longer he plays, he will gain more maturity," Lal said on Sports Tak. ALSO READ | 'He'll be one of the trumps cards' - Gavaskar feels India star will be integral to Rohit's T20 WC plans "Over the next two years, if he can take his game to the next level, then he can be a good captain, can deal with things maturely. This is a player of a different nature. MS Dhoni was a quiet and cool captain, which suited him as captain. Virat Kohli is a brilliant batter. I’m not saying Pant shouldn't be swinging his bat but if he can play with a little more maturity, it would be great," Lal explained further. As a batter, Pant didn't have a great run as he only managed 58 runs at a woeful strike rate of 105.45. The left-hander will next be seen in India's rescheduled fifth and final Test versus England, in Edgbaston, Birmingham, on July 01.

Ind vs SA, T20Is: I would have stopped Rishabh Pant from becoming captain, says former India cricketer

<p>India's T20 specialist Deepak Chahar will take four to five more weeks to completely recover from the hamstring injury, which had kept him out of Indian Premier League (IPL). Pacer Chahar and another centrally-contracted cricketer Washington Sundar, recovering from a hand injury, are currently doing their rehabilitation at NCA along with the likes of T Natarajan.</p>

<p>In another significant development, spin all-rounder Washington is set to fly to England to play for leading county side Lancashire.</p>

<p>"Washington is nearing full fitness and he needs a lot of game time, which he will get only in red-ball cricket. He is going to play for Lancashire and this exposure will do him a world of good," a BCCI source told PTI on conditions of anonymity.</p>

<p><strong>West Indies&nbsp;tour or Asia Cup could be Chahar's comeback vehicle</strong></p>

<p>Chahar, who sustained injury during home series against West Indies in Kolkata, looked in good shape during his morning session at the NCA.</p>

<p>"I am bowling four to five overs at one go as per my rehab programme right now. My recovery is going pretty well and I think it will take another four to five weeks for me to get match fit," Chahar told PTI after his rehab session.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ex-pakistan-pacer-md-amir-responds-to-rohit-sharmas-he-is-just-a-normal-bowler-comment-from-2016-490253">Ex-Pakistan pacer Md. Amir responds to Rohit Sharma's 'he is just a normal bowler' comment from 2016</a></p>

<p>The Rajasthan seamer admitted that it will not be possible for him to get fit by the time India play T20 series against England in the second week of July.</p>

<p>"It's a step-by-step process as far as recovery is concerned. I don't think I will be fit for England T20s. Once I am match fit, I will need to play some club-level games to check my fitness," Chahar said</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/here-for-15th-anniversary-of-this-jaffer-brutally-trolls-vaughan-after-ex-england-captain-takes-a-dig-at-him-490340">Here for 15th anniversary of this: Jaffer brutally trolls Vaughan after ex-England captain takes a dig at him</a></p>

<p>He looked very comfortable when he batted for a considerable amount of time. So, can one expect that he will be fit for tour of West Indies?</p>

<p>"I can't say that but I will definitely try and get fit by then. Let's see," the swing bowler said.</p>

<p>India are scheduled to play three ODIs and five T20Is between July 22 and August 7 in West Indies.&nbsp;</p>


India's T20 specialist Deepak Chahar will take four to five more weeks to completely recover from the hamstring injury, which had kept him out of Indian Premier League (IPL).

India's T20 specialist Deepak Chahar will take four to five more weeks to completely recover from the hamstring injury, which had kept him out of Indian Premier League (IPL). Pacer Chahar and another centrally-contracted cricketer Washington Sundar, recovering from a hand injury, are currently doing their rehabilitation at NCA along with the likes of T Natarajan. In another significant development, spin all-rounder Washington is set to fly to England to play for leading county side Lancashire. "Washington is nearing full fitness and he needs a lot of game time, which he will get only in red-ball cricket. He is going to play for Lancashire and this exposure will do him a world of good," a BCCI source told PTI on conditions of anonymity. West Indies tour or Asia Cup could be Chahar's comeback vehicle Chahar, who sustained injury during home series against West Indies in Kolkata, looked in good shape during his morning session at the NCA. "I am bowling four to five overs at one go as per my rehab programme right now. My recovery is going pretty well and I think it will take another four to five weeks for me to get match fit," Chahar told PTI after his rehab session. Also Read: Ex-Pakistan pacer Md. Amir responds to Rohit Sharma's 'he is just a normal bowler' comment from 2016 The Rajasthan seamer admitted that it will not be possible for him to get fit by the time India play T20 series against England in the second week of July. "It's a step-by-step process as far as recovery is concerned. I don't think I will be fit for England T20s. Once I am match fit, I will need to play some club-level games to check my fitness," Chahar said Also Read: Here for 15th anniversary of this: Jaffer brutally trolls Vaughan after ex-England captain takes a dig at him He looked very comfortable when he batted for a considerable amount of time. So, can one expect that he will be fit for tour of West Indies? "I can't say that but I will definitely try and get fit by then. Let's see," the swing bowler said. India are scheduled to play three ODIs and five T20Is between July 22 and August 7 in West Indies.

Deepak Chahar will take another 5 weeks to get fit, Washington Sundar to play for Lancashire

<p>Michael Vaughan and Wasim Jaffer continue to enjoy some fun banter on social media. Both former cricketers were great competitors on the pitch for their respective countries during their playing days and enjoyed some great duels with each other. Jaffer was interestingly&nbsp;Vaughan's first-ever wicket in Test cricket despite the former England skipper not being a proper bowler in any format of the game.</p>

<p>The duo have continued their rivalry on Twitter post their playing careers and shared some fun banter with each other. On Tuesday (June 21), Vaughan aimed a dig at Jaffer after the former India batter posted a picture of himself enjoying a sunny day at the Lord's Cricket Ground in London on Twitter.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reacting to Jaffer's tweet, Vaughan decided to poke fun at the former India batter and asked him if he was there at Lord's to celebrate the 20th anniversary of his dismissal against the former England captain. "Is it the 20th anniversary of my first Test wicket you are here for Wasim?" - Vaughan wrote taking a dig at Jaffer.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ex-pakistan-pacer-md-amir-responds-to-rohit-sharmas-he-is-just-a-normal-bowler-comment-from-2016-490253">Ex-Pakistan pacer Md. Amir responds to Rohit Sharma's 'he is just a normal bowler' comment from 2016</a></p>

<p>Jaffer was quick to hit back and responded by brutally trolling Vaughan with a throwback picture. Jaffer shared a throwback picture of India's Test series win against England in 2007 and wrote - "Here for the 15th anniversary of this Michael #ENGvIND." India had defeated England 1-0 in a Test series in their own backyard in 2007.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Here for the 15th anniversary of this Michael <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ENGvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ENGvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/Qae4t8IRpf">https://t.co/Qae4t8IRpf</a> <a href="https://t.co/gZC5ShGNwS">pic.twitter.com/gZC5ShGNwS</a></p>
— Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) <a href="https://twitter.com/WasimJaffer14/status/1539174548053975040?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 21, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/whatever-they-will-say-will-happen-shahid-afridi-lauds-india-for-huge-influence-it-has-on-world-cricket-490244">'Whatever they will say will happen' - Shahid Afridi lauds India for huge influence it has on world cricket</a></p>

<p>The banter between the duo is not expected to stop anytime soon as India are currently in England for a one-off Test match against the hosts. The visitors have some unfinished business from their tour of England last year where they were leading 2-1 in the five-match series before the fifth and final Test had to be postponed due to COVID-19.</p>

<p>India and England will now lock horns in the one-off fifth Test in Edgbaston starting on July 01. India will have a chance to script history by winning the Test match as it will be their first&nbsp;Test series win in England since 2007.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Michael Vaughan and Wasim Jaffer continue to enjoy some fun banter on social media. Both former cricketers were great competitors on the pitch for their respective countries during their playing days and enjoyed some great duels with each other.

Michael Vaughan and Wasim Jaffer continue to enjoy some fun banter on social media. Both former cricketers were great competitors on the pitch for their respective countries during their playing days and enjoyed some great duels with each other. Jaffer was interestingly Vaughan's first-ever wicket in Test cricket despite the former England skipper not being a proper bowler in any format of the game. The duo have continued their rivalry on Twitter post their playing careers and shared some fun banter with each other. On Tuesday (June 21), Vaughan aimed a dig at Jaffer after the former India batter posted a picture of himself enjoying a sunny day at the Lord's Cricket Ground in London on Twitter. Reacting to Jaffer's tweet, Vaughan decided to poke fun at the former India batter and asked him if he was there at Lord's to celebrate the 20th anniversary of his dismissal against the former England captain. "Is it the 20th anniversary of my first Test wicket you are here for Wasim?" - Vaughan wrote taking a dig at Jaffer. Also Read: Ex-Pakistan pacer Md. Amir responds to Rohit Sharma's 'he is just a normal bowler' comment from 2016 Jaffer was quick to hit back and responded by brutally trolling Vaughan with a throwback picture. Jaffer shared a throwback picture of India's Test series win against England in 2007 and wrote - "Here for the 15th anniversary of this Michael #ENGvIND." India had defeated England 1-0 in a Test series in their own backyard in 2007. Here for the 15th anniversary of this Michael #ENGvIND https://t.co/Qae4t8IRpf pic.twitter.com/gZC5ShGNwS — Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) June 21, 2022 × Also Read: 'Whatever they will say will happen' - Shahid Afridi lauds India for huge influence it has on world cricket The banter between the duo is not expected to stop anytime soon as India are currently in England for a one-off Test match against the hosts. The visitors have some unfinished business from their tour of England last year where they were leading 2-1 in the five-match series before the fifth and final Test had to be postponed due to COVID-19. India and England will now lock horns in the one-off fifth Test in Edgbaston starting on July 01. India will have a chance to script history by winning the Test match as it will be their first Test series win in England since 2007.

Here for 15th anniversary of this: Jaffer brutally trolls Vaughan after ex-England captain takes a dig at him

<p>Former Australia captain Lisa Sthalekar has become the first woman to be appointed president of the Federation of International Cricketers Association (FICA), the organisation said on Tuesday.</p>

<p>India-born Sthalekar was the first woman to achieve the double of 1,000 runs and 100 wickets in one-day Internationals and was a key member of four World Cup-winning Australia teams.</p>

<p>The spin-bowling all-rounder played her last match in 2013 and has worked as a commentator in recent years.</p>

<p>"Lisa was clearly the best candidate and her credentials are unparalleled as both a former player and broadcaster," FICA executive chairman Heath Mills said in a statement.</p>

<p>FICA was set up in 1998 and its members include most of the cricketers` associations around the world.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/whatever-they-will-say-will-happen-shahid-afridi-lauds-india-for-huge-influence-it-has-on-world-cricket-490244">'Whatever they will say will happen' - Shahid Afridi lauds India for huge influence it has on world cricket</a></p>

<p>Former FICA presidents include ex-South Africa batter Barry Richards, former West Indies all-rounder Jimmy Adams and former England batter Vikram Solanki.</p>


Former Australia captain Lisa Sthalekar has become the first woman to be appointed president of the Federation of International Cricketers Association (FICA), the organisation said on Tuesday.

Former Australia captain Lisa Sthalekar has become the first woman to be appointed president of the Federation of International Cricketers Association (FICA), the organisation said on Tuesday. India-born Sthalekar was the first woman to achieve the double of 1,000 runs and 100 wickets in one-day Internationals and was a key member of four World Cup-winning Australia teams. The spin-bowling all-rounder played her last match in 2013 and has worked as a commentator in recent years. "Lisa was clearly the best candidate and her credentials are unparalleled as both a former player and broadcaster," FICA executive chairman Heath Mills said in a statement. FICA was set up in 1998 and its members include most of the cricketers` associations around the world. Also Read: 'Whatever they will say will happen' - Shahid Afridi lauds India for huge influence it has on world cricket Former FICA presidents include ex-South Africa batter Barry Richards, former West Indies all-rounder Jimmy Adams and former England batter Vikram Solanki.

Former Australia captain Lisa Sthalekar 1st woman to be appointed president of players' body FICA

<p>The Indian cricket team is currently in England ahead of the one-off fifth Test against the hosts in Edgbaston. The Rohit Sharma-led side is training at the Leicestershire county ground and are scheduled to play a four-day warm-up match against the county team which gets underway from June 24. India have travelled to England without senior spinner R Ashwin, who reportedly missed his flight due to COVID-19.</p>

<p>There were question marks over Ashwin's absence in the squad which landed in Leicester last week. However, on Monday reports confirmed that the senior spinner had to miss his flight after he tested positive for COVID-19. The Indian team had departed for England on June 16.</p>

<p>As per a report in Cricbuzz, Ashwin has now fully recovered from the virus and is expected to fly out soon to join the rest of his teammates in Leicester ahead of the start of the practice match. BCCI sources confirmed that arrangements have been made for Ashwin to fly to the UK likely on Wednesday (June 24).</p>

<p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ex-pakistan-pacer-md-amir-responds-to-rohit-sharmas-he-is-just-a-normal-bowler-comment-from-2016-490253">Mohammad Amir responds to Rohit Sharma's 'he is just a normal bowler' comment from 2016</a></p>

<p>The report also states that spin all-rounder Jayant Yadav was kept on stand-by as a replacement for Ashwin and had been called to the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru (NCA) in case the senior spinner failed to recover in time. However, Ashwin will now board his flight to England soon in what comes as a huge boost for India ahead of the one-off Test against England.</p>

<p>Ashwin has been one of India's most successful spinners in Test cricket and is currently the country's second-highest wicket-taker in the longest format with 442 wickets from 86 matches. He is expected to feature in the playing XI for the 5th Test against England in Edgbaston which begins on July 01.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/whatever-they-will-say-will-happen-shahid-afridi-lauds-india-for-huge-influence-it-has-on-world-cricket-490244">&nbsp;'Whatever they will say will happen' - Shahid Afridi lauds India for huge influence it has on world cricket</a></p>

<p>The&nbsp;fifth Test between India and England was originally scheduled to be played during India's tour of England last year but the game had to be postponed due to COVID-19 with the visitors leading the series 2-1. India will have a golden chance to win their first Test series in England since 2007 when they lock horns with the visitors in the 5th Test from July 01.</p>


The Indian cricket team is currently in England ahead of the one-off fifth Test against the hosts in Edgbaston. The Rohit Sharma-led side is training at the Leicestershire county ground and are scheduled to play a four-day warm-up match against the county team which gets underway from June 24.

The Indian cricket team is currently in England ahead of the one-off fifth Test against the hosts in Edgbaston. The Rohit Sharma-led side is training at the Leicestershire county ground and are scheduled to play a four-day warm-up match against the county team which gets underway from June 24. India have travelled to England without senior spinner R Ashwin, who reportedly missed his flight due to COVID-19. There were question marks over Ashwin's absence in the squad which landed in Leicester last week. However, on Monday reports confirmed that the senior spinner had to miss his flight after he tested positive for COVID-19. The Indian team had departed for England on June 16. As per a report in Cricbuzz, Ashwin has now fully recovered from the virus and is expected to fly out soon to join the rest of his teammates in Leicester ahead of the start of the practice match. BCCI sources confirmed that arrangements have been made for Ashwin to fly to the UK likely on Wednesday (June 24). Also Read: Mohammad Amir responds to Rohit Sharma's 'he is just a normal bowler' comment from 2016 The report also states that spin all-rounder Jayant Yadav was kept on stand-by as a replacement for Ashwin and had been called to the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru (NCA) in case the senior spinner failed to recover in time. However, Ashwin will now board his flight to England soon in what comes as a huge boost for India ahead of the one-off Test against England. Ashwin has been one of India's most successful spinners in Test cricket and is currently the country's second-highest wicket-taker in the longest format with 442 wickets from 86 matches. He is expected to feature in the playing XI for the 5th Test against England in Edgbaston which begins on July 01. Also Read: 'Whatever they will say will happen' - Shahid Afridi lauds India for huge influence it has on world cricket The fifth Test between India and England was originally scheduled to be played during India's tour of England last year but the game had to be postponed due to COVID-19 with the visitors leading the series 2-1. India will have a golden chance to win their first Test series in England since 2007 when they lock horns with the visitors in the 5th Test from July 01.

R Ashwin to join Indian squad in England in next couple of days after missing flight due to COVID-19

<p>Former Pakistan pacer Mohammad Amir has responded to current India captain Rohit Sharma's comments for him from 2016. Ahead of the Asia Cup clash between India and Pakistan in 2016, Rohit had called Amir 'just a normal bowler' while speaking to the reporters. He had also urged the media to stop creating hype around the left-arm fast bowler stating that he still required consistency in his game and needed to prove himself despite being good.</p>

<p>Back then, Amir was making his comeback to international cricket after serving a five-year ban for his involvement in the 2010 spot-fixing scandal in England. Amir was in red-hot form with the ball during the Asia Cup 2016 and was raring to breathe fire against arch-rivals India.</p>

<p>India were chasing only 85 runs in the game but were in trouble early in their run-chase after Amir dismissed both openers Rohit and Ajinkya Rahane on ducks before also getting rid of Suresh Raina on just 1 run. He bowled an excellent spell of 3/18 in his 4 overs but Pakistan lost the game by 5 wickets as India chased down the total comfortably.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-had-tears-rolling-tim-paine-recalls-md-sirajs-racism-incident-during-india-australia-sydney-test-490147">'He had tears rolling...': Tim Paine recalls Md Siraj's racism incident during India-Australia Sydney Test</a></p>

<p>Speaking to a local Pakistani news channel recently, Amir was asked about Rohit's comments about him back in 2016. The former Pakistan pacer said he didn't take the current Indian captain's comments seriously and said it was impossible that everyone to rate him as a world-class fast bowler.</p>

<p>"I don’t take Rohit Sharma’s statement seriously. Everyone has his own opinion and it is impossible that everyone regards me as a world-class bowler," Amir was quoted as saying ASports.</p>

<p>"There is nothing to be felt bad about it, and as a professional, we should not take such things in a negative way. You cannot be everyone’s favourite," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-spinner-r-ashwin-tests-positive-for-covid-19-does-not-board-flight-to-england-report-490103">India spinner R Ashwin tests positive for COVID-19, does not board flight to England: Report</a></p>

<p>The former Pakistan pacer recalled his duels with Rohit in the past and said the Indian skipper is a world-class batter without any doubt. Despite having dismissed him on several occasions in international cricket and having troubled him with the ball, Amir maintained Rohit is one of the best in the world.</p>

<p>"No doubt he is a world-class batsman. I bowled well every time I faced Rohit and he struggled while facing me, still, I will call him a world-class player," Amir said.</p>


Former Pakistan pacer Mohammad Amir has responded to current India captain Rohit Sharma's comments for him from 2016. Ahead of the Asia Cup clash between India and Pakistan in 2016, Rohit had called Amir 'just a normal bowler' while speaking to the reporters.

Former Pakistan pacer Mohammad Amir has responded to current India captain Rohit Sharma's comments for him from 2016. Ahead of the Asia Cup clash between India and Pakistan in 2016, Rohit had called Amir 'just a normal bowler' while speaking to the reporters. He had also urged the media to stop creating hype around the left-arm fast bowler stating that he still required consistency in his game and needed to prove himself despite being good. Back then, Amir was making his comeback to international cricket after serving a five-year ban for his involvement in the 2010 spot-fixing scandal in England. Amir was in red-hot form with the ball during the Asia Cup 2016 and was raring to breathe fire against arch-rivals India. India were chasing only 85 runs in the game but were in trouble early in their run-chase after Amir dismissed both openers Rohit and Ajinkya Rahane on ducks before also getting rid of Suresh Raina on just 1 run. He bowled an excellent spell of 3/18 in his 4 overs but Pakistan lost the game by 5 wickets as India chased down the total comfortably. Also Read: 'He had tears rolling...': Tim Paine recalls Md Siraj's racism incident during India-Australia Sydney Test Speaking to a local Pakistani news channel recently, Amir was asked about Rohit's comments about him back in 2016. The former Pakistan pacer said he didn't take the current Indian captain's comments seriously and said it was impossible that everyone to rate him as a world-class fast bowler. "I don’t take Rohit Sharma’s statement seriously. Everyone has his own opinion and it is impossible that everyone regards me as a world-class bowler," Amir was quoted as saying ASports. "There is nothing to be felt bad about it, and as a professional, we should not take such things in a negative way. You cannot be everyone’s favourite," he added. Also Read: India spinner R Ashwin tests positive for COVID-19, does not board flight to England: Report The former Pakistan pacer recalled his duels with Rohit in the past and said the Indian skipper is a world-class batter without any doubt. Despite having dismissed him on several occasions in international cricket and having troubled him with the ball, Amir maintained Rohit is one of the best in the world. "No doubt he is a world-class batsman. I bowled well every time I faced Rohit and he struggled while facing me, still, I will call him a world-class player," Amir said.

Ex-Pakistan pacer Md. Amir responds to Rohit Sharma's 'he is just a normal bowler' comment from 2016

<p>Rahul Tewatia had recently reacted with a cryptic tweet after getting snubbed from India's T20I squad for the upcoming series against Ireland. India recently announced a 17-member squad for the two-match series against the hosts which begins on the 26th of June. In the absence of a number of senior players, who have been rested for the series, a number of youngsters made the cut into the squad.</p>

<p>However, all-rounder Tewatia, who had a fabulous campaign with the bat for champions Gujarat Titans (GT) in the recently-concluded IPL 2022, was not named in the squad. Dejected by the snub, Tewatia had taken to Twitter and wrote - 'expectations hurts' just minutes after the squad was announced by the BCCI.</p>

<p>While his snub came as a surprise to many considering he was in great form in IPL 2022 and played some good finishing cameos for the Titans to help them lift their maiden title in their debut season, some felt he was not in the fay as he was also not part of the T20I series against South Africa at home which concluded on Sunday (June 19).</p>

<p>When asked about Tewatia expressing his frustration over missing out on a spot in the Indian squad for the T20I series against Ireland, South Africa legend Graeme Smith shared a piece of advice for the all-rounder and asked him to focus on improving his performances rather than venting out on Twitter to ensure he is not snubbed by the selectors in the future.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-cheteshwar-pujara-open-against-england-in-kl-rahuls-absence-bccis-post-hints-at-indias-opening-pair-489990">Will&nbsp;Pujara open against England in KL Rahul's absence? BCCI's post hints at India's opening pair</a></p>

<p>“It’s very difficult in India as you guys have so much talent. And coach Rahul Dravid and captain Rohit Sharma must have had picked their majority of guys anticipating the conditions in Australia. I would say instead of Twitter, focus, perform and next time your time comes make sure no one can leave you out,” Smith told <em>Star Sports</em>.</p>

<p>Tewatia was roped in by Gujarat Titans at the IPL mega auction earlier this year for a huge sum of Rs 9 crore (INR 90 million) and lived up to his hefty price tag by delivering consistently with the willow. He scored 217 runs in 16 matches at a strike rate of 147.61 and played some valuable knocks in the lower-middle order.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-stamp-that-says-rishabh-pant-will-surely-play-in-t20-wc-2022-ex-india-pacer-makes-big-statement-489920">No stamp that says Rishabh Pant will surely play in T20 WC 2022: Ex-India pacer makes big statement</a></p>

<p>While Smith suggested he work hard to get a chance in the Indian squad in the future, India legend Sunil Gavaskar said the all-rounder deserved to be in the squad for the Ireland series after his heroics in IPL 2022. Lauding his finishing abilities, Gavaskar said his hard work should have been recognised.</p>

<p>“Rahul Tewatia should have been in team for Ireland. The one man who should have been in the team was Iceman Rahul Tewatia. He was superb in IPL. He batted cleverly throughout the tournament. Someone who shows that kind of temperament should have been in the team at least as 16th member of the team. At least his hard work should have been recognized,” said Gavaskar.</p>


Rahul Tewatia had recently reacted with a cryptic tweet after getting snubbed from India's T20I squad for the upcoming series against Ireland. India recently announced a 17-member squad for the two-match series against the hosts which begins on the 26th of June.

Rahul Tewatia had recently reacted with a cryptic tweet after getting snubbed from India's T20I squad for the upcoming series against Ireland. India recently announced a 17-member squad for the two-match series against the hosts which begins on the 26th of June. In the absence of a number of senior players, who have been rested for the series, a number of youngsters made the cut into the squad. However, all-rounder Tewatia, who had a fabulous campaign with the bat for champions Gujarat Titans (GT) in the recently-concluded IPL 2022, was not named in the squad. Dejected by the snub, Tewatia had taken to Twitter and wrote - 'expectations hurts' just minutes after the squad was announced by the BCCI. While his snub came as a surprise to many considering he was in great form in IPL 2022 and played some good finishing cameos for the Titans to help them lift their maiden title in their debut season, some felt he was not in the fay as he was also not part of the T20I series against South Africa at home which concluded on Sunday (June 19). When asked about Tewatia expressing his frustration over missing out on a spot in the Indian squad for the T20I series against Ireland, South Africa legend Graeme Smith shared a piece of advice for the all-rounder and asked him to focus on improving his performances rather than venting out on Twitter to ensure he is not snubbed by the selectors in the future. Also Read: Will Pujara open against England in KL Rahul's absence? BCCI's post hints at India's opening pair “It’s very difficult in India as you guys have so much talent. And coach Rahul Dravid and captain Rohit Sharma must have had picked their majority of guys anticipating the conditions in Australia. I would say instead of Twitter, focus, perform and next time your time comes make sure no one can leave you out,” Smith told Star Sports. Tewatia was roped in by Gujarat Titans at the IPL mega auction earlier this year for a huge sum of Rs 9 crore (INR 90 million) and lived up to his hefty price tag by delivering consistently with the willow. He scored 217 runs in 16 matches at a strike rate of 147.61 and played some valuable knocks in the lower-middle order. Also Read: No stamp that says Rishabh Pant will surely play in T20 WC 2022: Ex-India pacer makes big statement While Smith suggested he work hard to get a chance in the Indian squad in the future, India legend Sunil Gavaskar said the all-rounder deserved to be in the squad for the Ireland series after his heroics in IPL 2022. Lauding his finishing abilities, Gavaskar said his hard work should have been recognised. “Rahul Tewatia should have been in team for Ireland. The one man who should have been in the team was Iceman Rahul Tewatia. He was superb in IPL. He batted cleverly throughout the tournament. Someone who shows that kind of temperament should have been in the team at least as 16th member of the team. At least his hard work should have been recognized,” said Gavaskar.

'Instead of Twitter, focus on performing': South Africa legend tells Rahul Tewatia after Team India snub

<p>Virat Kohli completed 11 years in Test cricket for the Indian cricket team on Monday (June 20). One of the greatest batters of all time, Kohli earned his maiden Test cap for India on this day eleven years ago. He played his first Test match for the country against West Indies at the Sabina Park in Jamaica. It has since been a memorable journey for the run machine in the whites for Team India.</p>

<p>Kohli didn't have the ideal start in his debut Test match as he could only manage scores of 4 and 15 runs across two innings against West Indies. However, there has been no looking back ever since as he went on to establish his credentials as one of the best in the world.</p>

<p>He has come a long way since his debut in Jamaica and has already played over 100 Test matches for India. He has amassed 8043 runs in 101 matches at averaging a brilliant 49.95 with 27 hundreds and 28 fifties to his name. He has been instrumental in helping India dominate in Test cricket over the last few years and has had a phenomenal journey so far.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-wasim-akram-sends-cricket-fans-on-nostalgia-trip-as-he-cleans-up-michael-atherton-in-charity-game-489943">WATCH - Wasim Akram sends fans on nostalgia trip as he cleans up Michael Atherton in charity game</a></p>

<p>Kohli took to social media on Monday to share a special video reliving his memorable journey in the longest format after completing 11 years in whites for the Indian team. "Time flies," Kohli captioned the post.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Time flies <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/20June?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#20June</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TestDebut?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TestDebut</a> <a href="https://t.co/eIktcGLg6i">pic.twitter.com/eIktcGLg6i</a></p>
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/1538794594044809216?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 20, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Apart from being a prolific run-getter with the bat, Kohli also went on to become India's most successful Test captain of all time after taking over the reins from MS Dhoni. He was appointed as India's full-time Test skipper in 2015 and led the team in a total of 68 matches before stepping down in January 2022.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-stamp-that-says-rishabh-pant-will-surely-play-in-t20-wc-2022-ex-india-pacer-makes-big-statement-489920">No stamp that says Rishabh Pant will surely play in T20 WC 2022: Ex-India pacer makes big statement</a></p>

<p>He led India to 40 wins in 68 games - the most by any captain in the history of Indian cricket. He surpassed Dhoni to become the most successful Test captain the country has ever produced and also became the most successful Test captain in Asia.</p>

<p>Kohli led India to some memorable wins both at home and away from home, including a historic Test series win in Australia Down Under. Under Kohli's captaincy, India had won their maiden Test series on Australian soil in 2019. He also led India to the final of the World Test Championship last year.</p>


Virat Kohli completed 11 years in Test cricket for the Indian cricket team on Monday (June 20). One of the greatest batters of all time, Kohli earned his maiden Test cap for India on this day eleven years ago.

Virat Kohli completed 11 years in Test cricket for the Indian cricket team on Monday (June 20). One of the greatest batters of all time, Kohli earned his maiden Test cap for India on this day eleven years ago. He played his first Test match for the country against West Indies at the Sabina Park in Jamaica. It has since been a memorable journey for the run machine in the whites for Team India. Kohli didn't have the ideal start in his debut Test match as he could only manage scores of 4 and 15 runs across two innings against West Indies. However, there has been no looking back ever since as he went on to establish his credentials as one of the best in the world. He has come a long way since his debut in Jamaica and has already played over 100 Test matches for India. He has amassed 8043 runs in 101 matches at averaging a brilliant 49.95 with 27 hundreds and 28 fifties to his name. He has been instrumental in helping India dominate in Test cricket over the last few years and has had a phenomenal journey so far. Also Read: WATCH - Wasim Akram sends fans on nostalgia trip as he cleans up Michael Atherton in charity game Kohli took to social media on Monday to share a special video reliving his memorable journey in the longest format after completing 11 years in whites for the Indian team. "Time flies," Kohli captioned the post. Time flies #20June #TestDebut pic.twitter.com/eIktcGLg6i — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) June 20, 2022 × Apart from being a prolific run-getter with the bat, Kohli also went on to become India's most successful Test captain of all time after taking over the reins from MS Dhoni. He was appointed as India's full-time Test skipper in 2015 and led the team in a total of 68 matches before stepping down in January 2022. Also Read: No stamp that says Rishabh Pant will surely play in T20 WC 2022: Ex-India pacer makes big statement He led India to 40 wins in 68 games - the most by any captain in the history of Indian cricket. He surpassed Dhoni to become the most successful Test captain the country has ever produced and also became the most successful Test captain in Asia. Kohli led India to some memorable wins both at home and away from home, including a historic Test series win in Australia Down Under. Under Kohli's captaincy, India had won their maiden Test series on Australian soil in 2019. He also led India to the final of the World Test Championship last year.

11 years of Virat Kohli in Test cricket: Former India captain shares special video to relive memorable journey

<p>Wasim Akram is regarded as one of the greatest fast bowlers to have played the game. The former Pakistan cricketer was known for his brilliant in-swinging yorkers during his playing days and it seems he can still nail one of those to perfection despite having retired from cricket nearly two decades ago. Akram recently rolled back the years during a charity match between some of the legends of the game.</p>

<p>The celebrity charity match was organised in the remembrance of the late Shane Warne, who tragically passed away earlier this year after suffering a heart attack while holidaying in Thailand. The charity match featured some of the cricketing greats like Akram, Brian Lara, the legendary Clive Lloyd and Atherton among others.</p>

<p>During the game, Akram produced a lethal in-swinging yorker against Atherton to clean up the former England captain and send cricket fans on a nostalgia trip. The toe-crushing yorker from the former Pakistan pacer rattled Atherton's middle and leg stump as he was seen departing with a smile. The video of the dismissal has since gone viral on social media with fans hailing Akram.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A classic <a href="https://twitter.com/wasimakramlive?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@wasimakramlive</a> inswinging yorker is too good for Michael Atherton!<br />
<br />
These legends are playing in the <a href="https://twitter.com/WellbeingofWmen?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WellbeingofWmen</a> Celebrity Charity Match in remembrance of the great Shane Warne <a href="https://t.co/7GwcCL97kP">pic.twitter.com/7GwcCL97kP</a></p>
— Cricket District (@cricketdistrict) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketdistrict/status/1538585294093668352?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-stamp-that-says-rishabh-pant-will-surely-play-in-t20-wc-2022-ex-india-pacer-makes-big-statement-489920">No stamp that says Rishabh Pant will surely play in T20 WC 2022: Ex-India pacer makes big statement</a></p>

<p>Akram and Atherton came up against each other on several occasions during their playing days and the former Pakistan pacer managed to get the better of the ex-England captain in a few matches. The duo also played together for English county side Lancashire.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After dismissing him once again in the charity game recently, Akram took to Twitter to pull Atherton's leg and remind him that 'some things will stay the same'.&nbsp;“Sorry @Athersmike we might get older, but some things will stay the same," Akram wrote in a tweet replying to a video of the former England skipper's dismissal.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Sorry <a href="https://twitter.com/Athersmike?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Athersmike</a> we might get older but some things will stay the same ! <a href="https://t.co/k2SnvKGvX5">https://t.co/k2SnvKGvX5</a></p>
— Wasim Akram (@wasimakramlive) <a href="https://twitter.com/wasimakramlive/status/1538591395321085957?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-netizens-divided-over-ruturaj-gaikwads-behaviour-with-groundsman-in-bengaluru-t20i-489830">WATCH: Netizens divided over Ruturaj Gaikwad's behaviour with groundsman in Bengaluru T20I</a></p>

<p>Akram is regarded as one of the best fast bowlers to have played the game and was the first-ever bowler to reach 500 wickets in ODIs. The Pakistan legend picked up a total of 502 ODI wickets in his career in 356 matches at an average of 23.52. He also picked up 414 wickets in 104 Test matches and is Pakistan's highest wicket-taker in international cricket.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Wasim Akram is regarded as one of the greatest fast bowlers to have played the game. The former Pakistan cricketer was known for his brilliant in-swinging yorkers during his playing days and it seems he can still nail one of those to perfection despite having retired from cricket nearly two decades ago.

Wasim Akram is regarded as one of the greatest fast bowlers to have played the game. The former Pakistan cricketer was known for his brilliant in-swinging yorkers during his playing days and it seems he can still nail one of those to perfection despite having retired from cricket nearly two decades ago. Akram recently rolled back the years during a charity match between some of the legends of the game. The celebrity charity match was organised in the remembrance of the late Shane Warne, who tragically passed away earlier this year after suffering a heart attack while holidaying in Thailand. The charity match featured some of the cricketing greats like Akram, Brian Lara, the legendary Clive Lloyd and Atherton among others. During the game, Akram produced a lethal in-swinging yorker against Atherton to clean up the former England captain and send cricket fans on a nostalgia trip. The toe-crushing yorker from the former Pakistan pacer rattled Atherton's middle and leg stump as he was seen departing with a smile. The video of the dismissal has since gone viral on social media with fans hailing Akram. A classic @wasimakramlive inswinging yorker is too good for Michael Atherton! These legends are playing in the @WellbeingofWmen Celebrity Charity Match in remembrance of the great Shane Warne pic.twitter.com/7GwcCL97kP — Cricket District (@cricketdistrict) June 19, 2022 × Also Read: No stamp that says Rishabh Pant will surely play in T20 WC 2022: Ex-India pacer makes big statement Akram and Atherton came up against each other on several occasions during their playing days and the former Pakistan pacer managed to get the better of the ex-England captain in a few matches. The duo also played together for English county side Lancashire. After dismissing him once again in the charity game recently, Akram took to Twitter to pull Atherton's leg and remind him that 'some things will stay the same'. “Sorry @Athersmike we might get older, but some things will stay the same," Akram wrote in a tweet replying to a video of the former England skipper's dismissal. Sorry @Athersmike we might get older but some things will stay the same ! https://t.co/k2SnvKGvX5 — Wasim Akram (@wasimakramlive) June 19, 2022 × Also Read: WATCH: Netizens divided over Ruturaj Gaikwad's behaviour with groundsman in Bengaluru T20I Akram is regarded as one of the best fast bowlers to have played the game and was the first-ever bowler to reach 500 wickets in ODIs. The Pakistan legend picked up a total of 502 ODI wickets in his career in 356 matches at an average of 23.52. He also picked up 414 wickets in 104 Test matches and is Pakistan's highest wicket-taker in international cricket.

WATCH: Wasim Akram sends cricket fans on nostalgia trip as he cleans up Michael Atherton in charity game

<p>Rishabh Pant got a golden opportunity to captain the Indian team in the absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma and vice-captain KL Rahul in the recently-concluded T20I series against South Africa at home. While Rohit was rested from the series, Rahul, who was supposed to lead the team in his absence suffered an injury ahead of the opening game making way for Pant to take over as captain.</p>

<p>While Pant enjoyed a great time as captain and helped India draw the series 2-2 after facing back-to-back defeats in the first two matches, his personal form with the bat was far from best. Pant had a poor outing with the willow against the Proteas managing scores of 29, 5, 6 and 17 in the first four games before the fifth T20I was called off due to rain.</p>

<p>Amid his poor show with the bat, questions have been raised over Pant's spot in the Indian T20I side with many debating if the wicket-keeper batter deserves a spot in the squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022. With the World Cup in Australia just 4 months away, Pant's poor form can cost him a place in the side amid the sensational return of Dinesh Karthik and Ishan Kishan also firing at the top.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-script-history-break-australias-impressive-t20i-record-after-south-africa-series-ends-in-2-2-draw-489907">India script history, break Australia's impressive T20I record after South Africa series ends in 2-2 draw</a></p>

<p>Speaking about Pant's chances of making it to India's squad for T20 World Cup 2022, former India pacer Ashish Nehra said his spot is not guaranteed in the side. The former pacer pointed out how Pant has been popular amongst all right from his initial days in international cricket due to his explosive batting but asserted that there is no stamp that India can't play the World Cup without him in Australia this year.</p>

<p>“Right from day one, we knew he(Pant) is going to be popular. He came the first day and then got dropped as he flopped initially. Then he came back and made a name for himself. I am very sure he will be disappointed with the kind of T20 numbers he had," Nehra said on Cricbuzz after the conclusion of India's T20I series against South Africa.</p>

<p>"The question this person asked was ‘can Team India play T20 cricket without Pant? Yes, Why Not. T20 World Cup is very far away. There is no stamp that says Pant will surely play the T20 World Cup. He can also get injured. But there are a lot of games in between. We will have ten T20Is and then the Asia Cup," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rishabh-pant-or-dinesh-karthik-irfan-pathan-names-his-choice-while-picking-rohit-cos-ideal-t20-wc-xi-489844">Pant or Karthik? Irfan Pathan names his choice while picking Rohit &amp; Co.'s ideal T20 WC XI</a></p>

<p>Pant has been one of the regulars for India in the shortest format over the last few years but has failed to impress much despite having been given a long run. He has so far managed 741 runs in 48 T20Is at an average of 23.15 and a strike rate of over 123.</p>

<p>He has certainly not done justice to his talent and skills in the shortest format and will be hoping to spark a turnaround in the upcoming matches for the Men in Blue. He has been rested from India's upcoming T20I series against Ireland and will be seen in action during the one-off 5th Test against England next.</p>


Rishabh Pant got a golden opportunity to captain the Indian team in the absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma and vice-captain KL Rahul in the recently-concluded T20I series against South Africa at home.

Rishabh Pant got a golden opportunity to captain the Indian team in the absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma and vice-captain KL Rahul in the recently-concluded T20I series against South Africa at home. While Rohit was rested from the series, Rahul, who was supposed to lead the team in his absence suffered an injury ahead of the opening game making way for Pant to take over as captain. While Pant enjoyed a great time as captain and helped India draw the series 2-2 after facing back-to-back defeats in the first two matches, his personal form with the bat was far from best. Pant had a poor outing with the willow against the Proteas managing scores of 29, 5, 6 and 17 in the first four games before the fifth T20I was called off due to rain. Amid his poor show with the bat, questions have been raised over Pant's spot in the Indian T20I side with many debating if the wicket-keeper batter deserves a spot in the squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022. With the World Cup in Australia just 4 months away, Pant's poor form can cost him a place in the side amid the sensational return of Dinesh Karthik and Ishan Kishan also firing at the top. Also Read: India script history, break Australia's impressive T20I record after South Africa series ends in 2-2 draw Speaking about Pant's chances of making it to India's squad for T20 World Cup 2022, former India pacer Ashish Nehra said his spot is not guaranteed in the side. The former pacer pointed out how Pant has been popular amongst all right from his initial days in international cricket due to his explosive batting but asserted that there is no stamp that India can't play the World Cup without him in Australia this year. “Right from day one, we knew he(Pant) is going to be popular. He came the first day and then got dropped as he flopped initially. Then he came back and made a name for himself. I am very sure he will be disappointed with the kind of T20 numbers he had," Nehra said on Cricbuzz after the conclusion of India's T20I series against South Africa. "The question this person asked was ‘can Team India play T20 cricket without Pant? Yes, Why Not. T20 World Cup is very far away. There is no stamp that says Pant will surely play the T20 World Cup. He can also get injured. But there are a lot of games in between. We will have ten T20Is and then the Asia Cup," he added. Also Read: Pant or Karthik? Irfan Pathan names his choice while picking Rohit & Co.'s ideal T20 WC XI Pant has been one of the regulars for India in the shortest format over the last few years but has failed to impress much despite having been given a long run. He has so far managed 741 runs in 48 T20Is at an average of 23.15 and a strike rate of over 123. He has certainly not done justice to his talent and skills in the shortest format and will be hoping to spark a turnaround in the upcoming matches for the Men in Blue. He has been rested from India's upcoming T20I series against Ireland and will be seen in action during the one-off 5th Test against England next.

No stamp that says Rishabh Pant will surely play in T20 WC 2022: Ex-India pacer makes big statement

<p>India missed out on a chance to register an elusive T20I series win over South Africa at home after the 5th and final T20I between the two sides was washed out due to rain on Sunday. With the game in Bengaluru getting called off due to persistent rain, the series ended in a 2-2 draw. India, who had lost the first two matches of the series, won the next two games on the trot to level the series 2-2 as the five-match rubber ended in a stalemate.</p>

<p>India headed into the fifth and final looking for their third win on the bounce with the series on the line. However, rain made it impossible to have even a reduced contest leaving the two sides and the fans disappointed. While the Men in Blue failed to clinch the series, they scripted a historic feat in T20Is by remaining unbeaten in the series.</p>

<p>India extended their unbeaten record at home in T20Is to break Australia's impressive record in the shortest format. India have now gone unbeaten in nine straight T20I series at home surpassing Australia, who had managed to remain unbeaten in 8 T20I series from 2006 to 2010.</p>

<p>India's unbeaten streak started back in 2019 with a 1-1 draw against South Africa in a three-match series following which the Men in Blue have recorded wins over the likes of West Indies, England, New Zealand and Sri Lanka at home. India were without a host of key players in the recently-concluded South Africa series at home but managed to keep their unbeaten record intact.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhonis-international-career-got-over-but-aakash-chopra-lauds-dinesh-karthik-after-sa-t20is-489877">'MS Dhoni's international career got over but....' - Aakash Chopra lauds Dinesh Karthik after SA T20Is</a></p>

<p>Rishabh Pant led the hosts in the absence of regular captain Rohit Sharma, who was rested from the series and KL Rahul, who was supposed to lead the side in Rohit's absence but had to miss out due to an injury ahead of the opening game. The likes of Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Dinesh Karthik, Hardik Pandya and Ishan Kishan turned out to be the impressive performers for the hosts in the series.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-netizens-divided-over-ruturaj-gaikwads-behaviour-with-groundsman-in-bengaluru-t20i-489830">WATCH: Netizens divided over Ruturaj Gaikwad's behaviour with groundsman in Bengaluru T20I</a></p>

<p>India will now head to Ireland for their next T20I assignment where they are scheduled to play two T20I against the hosts. Hardik will be leading the side with no Rohit in the squad and Rahul out due to an injury. India will be hoping to continue their impressive run in the series as they prepare for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022.</p>


India missed out on a chance to register an elusive T20I series win over South Africa at home after the 5th and final T20I between the two sides was washed out due to rain on Sunday.

India missed out on a chance to register an elusive T20I series win over South Africa at home after the 5th and final T20I between the two sides was washed out due to rain on Sunday. With the game in Bengaluru getting called off due to persistent rain, the series ended in a 2-2 draw. India, who had lost the first two matches of the series, won the next two games on the trot to level the series 2-2 as the five-match rubber ended in a stalemate. India headed into the fifth and final looking for their third win on the bounce with the series on the line. However, rain made it impossible to have even a reduced contest leaving the two sides and the fans disappointed. While the Men in Blue failed to clinch the series, they scripted a historic feat in T20Is by remaining unbeaten in the series. India extended their unbeaten record at home in T20Is to break Australia's impressive record in the shortest format. India have now gone unbeaten in nine straight T20I series at home surpassing Australia, who had managed to remain unbeaten in 8 T20I series from 2006 to 2010. India's unbeaten streak started back in 2019 with a 1-1 draw against South Africa in a three-match series following which the Men in Blue have recorded wins over the likes of West Indies, England, New Zealand and Sri Lanka at home. India were without a host of key players in the recently-concluded South Africa series at home but managed to keep their unbeaten record intact. Also Read: 'MS Dhoni's international career got over but....' - Aakash Chopra lauds Dinesh Karthik after SA T20Is Rishabh Pant led the hosts in the absence of regular captain Rohit Sharma, who was rested from the series and KL Rahul, who was supposed to lead the side in Rohit's absence but had to miss out due to an injury ahead of the opening game. The likes of Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Dinesh Karthik, Hardik Pandya and Ishan Kishan turned out to be the impressive performers for the hosts in the series. Also Read: WATCH: Netizens divided over Ruturaj Gaikwad's behaviour with groundsman in Bengaluru T20I India will now head to Ireland for their next T20I assignment where they are scheduled to play two T20I against the hosts. Hardik will be leading the side with no Rohit in the squad and Rahul out due to an injury. India will be hoping to continue their impressive run in the series as they prepare for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022.

India script history, break Australia's impressive T20I record after South Africa series ends in 2-2 draw

<p>India and South Africa shared honours in the five-match T20I series after the last game here on Sunday was called off due to rain with only 3.3 overs of play possible. India and South Africa were on level terms at 2-2 after four matches.</p>

<p>After being put into bat, a steady downpour delayed the game by 50 minutes. It started raining just when the game was about to start.</p>

<p>The curtailed match did start at 7:50 PM but was called off after only 16 minutes of play in which India managed 28 runs for the loss of two wickets.</p>

<p>Lungi Ngidi got both the wickets of Ishan Kishan and Ruturaj Gaikwad with a couple of slower deliveries.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wasnt-the-plan-rahul-dravid-opens-up-on-working-with-6-different-captains-as-india-head-coach-489747">'Wasn't the plan': Dravid opens up on working with 6 different captains as India head coach</a></p>

<p>Kishan hit two sixes off Keshav Maharaj's opening over but was undone by a loopy slower delivery from Ngidi as he committed to the shot early and played all over it.</p>

<p>Gaikwad also failed to pick up a slower delivery and was holed out at mid-on before the heavens opened up again to stop the series decider.&nbsp;</p>


India and South Africa shared honours in the five-match T20I series after the last game here on Sunday was called off due to rain with only 3.3 overs of play possible.

India and South Africa shared honours in the five-match T20I series after the last game here on Sunday was called off due to rain with only 3.3 overs of play possible. India and South Africa were on level terms at 2-2 after four matches. After being put into bat, a steady downpour delayed the game by 50 minutes. It started raining just when the game was about to start. The curtailed match did start at 7:50 PM but was called off after only 16 minutes of play in which India managed 28 runs for the loss of two wickets. Lungi Ngidi got both the wickets of Ishan Kishan and Ruturaj Gaikwad with a couple of slower deliveries. Also Read: 'Wasn't the plan': Dravid opens up on working with 6 different captains as India head coach Kishan hit two sixes off Keshav Maharaj's opening over but was undone by a loopy slower delivery from Ngidi as he committed to the shot early and played all over it. Gaikwad also failed to pick up a slower delivery and was holed out at mid-on before the heavens opened up again to stop the series decider.

5th T20I between India and South Africa called off due to rain, series shared

<p>India legend Rahul Dravid has had to work with a number of different captains since taking over as the head coach of the Indian cricket team last year. Dravid was appointed as the coach of the Men in Blue after former head coach Ravi Shastri's contract expired following the conclusion of the T20 World Cup 2021 last year. Dravid has seen overseen a huge transition in Indian cricket.</p>

<p>After Shastri's departure, Virat Kohli stepped down as the captain of the Indian T20I team before he was also asked to let go of Test and ODI captaincy paving way for Rohit Sharma to take over as India's captain across all three formats. However, with injuries and COVID-19 still wreaking havoc, Dravid has had to work with not just Kohli and Rohit but many other players leading the side.</p>

<p>Opening up about the regular changes in the leadership of the Indian team, head coach Dravid said it is not something that the team management had planned for but it has been due to COVID, injuries and workload management that a number of captains have had to be installed over the last few months.</p>

<p>"Probably been 6 captains in the last 8 months that I have had to work it. Which wasn't the plan when I first started. But it is the nature of COVID, the nature of the number of games we play, it is about managing the workload of the squad," Dravid said on Star Sports ahead of the start of India's 5th T20I against South Africa in Bengaluru on Sunday (June 19)</p>

<p>"Few changes in captaincy means I have had to work with quite a few people over the last few months which in itself has been challenging but great fun too. It's good a lot of guys have got to lead the team and given us the opportunity to create leaders in the group," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-has-already-booked-his-place-in-t20-wc-2022-squad-ashish-nehra-makes-bold-claim-about-india-star-489726">He has already booked his place in T20 WC 2022 squad: Nehra makes bold claim about Dinesh Karthik</a></p>

<p>While Rishabh Pant is leading the side in the ongoing T20I series against South Africa after Rohit was rested and KL Rahul got injured ahead of the series-opener, Dravid had worked with Kohli during the South Africa Test series before Rahul led the side in his absence.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Ajinkya Rahane also led the team in a Test match against New Zealand last year in the absence of both Kohli and Rohit while Dravid had also worked with Shikhar Dhawan during India's tour of Sri Lanka last year before being appointed as India's head coach permanently.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-still-have-some-cricket-left-rohit-sharmas-old-chat-with-dinesh-karthik-goes-viral-after-his-comeback-489664">'You still have some cricket left': Rohit's old chat with Dinesh Karthik goes viral after his comeback</a></p>

<p>India are currently taking on South Africa in a five-match T20I series at home which is locked at 1-1 after the hosts defeated the Proteas in back-to-back matches following two losses on the trot in the first two games. India will be hoping to clinch the series by winning their third game on the bounce when they take on South Africa in the 5th T20I on Sunday.</p>


India legend Rahul Dravid has had to work with a number of different captains since taking over as the head coach of the Indian cricket team last year. Dravid was appointed as the coach of the Men in Blue after former head coach Ravi Shastri's contract expired following the conclusion of the T20 World Cup 2021 last year.

India legend Rahul Dravid has had to work with a number of different captains since taking over as the head coach of the Indian cricket team last year. Dravid was appointed as the coach of the Men in Blue after former head coach Ravi Shastri's contract expired following the conclusion of the T20 World Cup 2021 last year. Dravid has seen overseen a huge transition in Indian cricket. After Shastri's departure, Virat Kohli stepped down as the captain of the Indian T20I team before he was also asked to let go of Test and ODI captaincy paving way for Rohit Sharma to take over as India's captain across all three formats. However, with injuries and COVID-19 still wreaking havoc, Dravid has had to work with not just Kohli and Rohit but many other players leading the side. Opening up about the regular changes in the leadership of the Indian team, head coach Dravid said it is not something that the team management had planned for but it has been due to COVID, injuries and workload management that a number of captains have had to be installed over the last few months. "Probably been 6 captains in the last 8 months that I have had to work it. Which wasn't the plan when I first started. But it is the nature of COVID, the nature of the number of games we play, it is about managing the workload of the squad," Dravid said on Star Sports ahead of the start of India's 5th T20I against South Africa in Bengaluru on Sunday (June 19) "Few changes in captaincy means I have had to work with quite a few people over the last few months which in itself has been challenging but great fun too. It's good a lot of guys have got to lead the team and given us the opportunity to create leaders in the group," he added. Also Read: He has already booked his place in T20 WC 2022 squad: Nehra makes bold claim about Dinesh Karthik While Rishabh Pant is leading the side in the ongoing T20I series against South Africa after Rohit was rested and KL Rahul got injured ahead of the series-opener, Dravid had worked with Kohli during the South Africa Test series before Rahul led the side in his absence. Meanwhile, Ajinkya Rahane also led the team in a Test match against New Zealand last year in the absence of both Kohli and Rohit while Dravid had also worked with Shikhar Dhawan during India's tour of Sri Lanka last year before being appointed as India's head coach permanently. Also Read: 'You still have some cricket left': Rohit's old chat with Dinesh Karthik goes viral after his comeback India are currently taking on South Africa in a five-match T20I series at home which is locked at 1-1 after the hosts defeated the Proteas in back-to-back matches following two losses on the trot in the first two games. India will be hoping to clinch the series by winning their third game on the bounce when they take on South Africa in the 5th T20I on Sunday.

'Wasn't the plan': Rahul Dravid opens up on working with 6 different captains as India head coach

<p>Dinesh Karthik has made a sensational comeback to the Indian cricket team after a brilliant campaign for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the recently-concluded IPL 2022. He emerged as one of the best finishers in the tournament and produced some memorable knocks for RCB batting in the lower-middle order to earn a recall in the Indian team after a gap of three years.</p>

<p>Karthik had last played for India during the 2019 ODI World Cup and had failed to make his comeback to the team across any format. He even enjoyed a commentary stint during India's tour of England last year with many writing him off. However, the veteran wicket-keeper batter has had an incredible redemption this year.</p>

<p>He has continued his finishing heroics for the Indian team in their ongoing T20I series against South Africa at home after an exceptional IPL campaign. Karthik played a brilliant knock of 56 runs off just 27 balls in the 4th T20I against South Africa on Friday to help India win the game by 82 runs and reaffirm his credentials as one of the best finishers in the Indian team at present.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-still-have-some-cricket-left-rohit-sharmas-old-chat-with-dinesh-karthik-goes-viral-after-his-comeback-489664">Rohit Sharma's old chat with Dinesh Karthik goes viral after his comeback</a></p>

<p>Lauding him after his terrific knock against the Proteas in the 4th T20I in Rajkot, former India pacer Ashish Nehra said India needs experienced players like Karthik in the lower middle-order for the T20 World Cup in Australia this year. Nehra said players like Karthik can help India chase down targets of 200 in Australia.</p>

<p>"Today he batted at No.6, which I liked, and that fact that he scored a half-century...his innings was longer and he got to bat earlier in the game...so these are the expectation you have from your most experienced player whom you have recalled to the team," Nehra said on <em>Cricbuzz</em>.</p>

<p>"Yes he does score runs in the last 3-4 overs but experience means that he knows a lot many other things as well. Selectors, team management should all be happy. The knock surely will give him confidence as well and going forward, in this entire talk about impact at that batting position...you have Hardik Pandya, Rishabh Pant, Ravindra Jadeja and then the experience of Karthik. He is the kind of player who can help you chase down even targets of 200 in Australia,” he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rishabh-pant-is-overweight-danish-kaneria-raises-questions-over-indian-skippers-fitness-489557">'Rishabh Pant is overweight': Danish Kaneria raises questions over Indian skipper's fitness</a></p>

<p>Karthik has so far scored 84 runs in the ongoing T20I series against South Africa striking at an impressive 158.6 out of which 84 runs have come in the slog overs at a strike rate of over 186. He has truly been in the form of his life and Nehra believes the veteran keeper batter has already sealed his spot in India's T20 World Cup 2022 squad.</p>

<p>“He has already booked his place in the T20 World Cup squad. He scored 55 at a strike rate of 200," said the former India pacer following Karthik's 56-run knock against the Proteas on Friday.</p>


Dinesh Karthik has made a sensational comeback to the Indian cricket team after a brilliant campaign for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the recently-concluded IPL 2022.

Dinesh Karthik has made a sensational comeback to the Indian cricket team after a brilliant campaign for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the recently-concluded IPL 2022. He emerged as one of the best finishers in the tournament and produced some memorable knocks for RCB batting in the lower-middle order to earn a recall in the Indian team after a gap of three years. Karthik had last played for India during the 2019 ODI World Cup and had failed to make his comeback to the team across any format. He even enjoyed a commentary stint during India's tour of England last year with many writing him off. However, the veteran wicket-keeper batter has had an incredible redemption this year. He has continued his finishing heroics for the Indian team in their ongoing T20I series against South Africa at home after an exceptional IPL campaign. Karthik played a brilliant knock of 56 runs off just 27 balls in the 4th T20I against South Africa on Friday to help India win the game by 82 runs and reaffirm his credentials as one of the best finishers in the Indian team at present. Also Read: Rohit Sharma's old chat with Dinesh Karthik goes viral after his comeback Lauding him after his terrific knock against the Proteas in the 4th T20I in Rajkot, former India pacer Ashish Nehra said India needs experienced players like Karthik in the lower middle-order for the T20 World Cup in Australia this year. Nehra said players like Karthik can help India chase down targets of 200 in Australia. "Today he batted at No.6, which I liked, and that fact that he scored a half-century...his innings was longer and he got to bat earlier in the game...so these are the expectation you have from your most experienced player whom you have recalled to the team," Nehra said on Cricbuzz. "Yes he does score runs in the last 3-4 overs but experience means that he knows a lot many other things as well. Selectors, team management should all be happy. The knock surely will give him confidence as well and going forward, in this entire talk about impact at that batting position...you have Hardik Pandya, Rishabh Pant, Ravindra Jadeja and then the experience of Karthik. He is the kind of player who can help you chase down even targets of 200 in Australia,” he added. Also Read: 'Rishabh Pant is overweight': Danish Kaneria raises questions over Indian skipper's fitness Karthik has so far scored 84 runs in the ongoing T20I series against South Africa striking at an impressive 158.6 out of which 84 runs have come in the slog overs at a strike rate of over 186. He has truly been in the form of his life and Nehra believes the veteran keeper batter has already sealed his spot in India's T20 World Cup 2022 squad. “He has already booked his place in the T20 World Cup squad. He scored 55 at a strike rate of 200," said the former India pacer following Karthik's 56-run knock against the Proteas on Friday.

He has already booked his place in T20 WC 2022 squad: Ashish Nehra makes bold claim about Dinesh Karthik

<p>Dinesh Karthik has scripted a fairytale redemption tale with his batting exploits for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and the Indian cricket team. Karthik emerged as a brilliant finisher for RCB in the recently-concluded IPL 2022 where he impressed many with his sensational performances in the lower-middle order.</p>

<p>With the help of his finishing heroics, the veteran wicket-keeper managed to earn a spot in the Indian T20I squad for the ongoing series against South Africa at home and has managed to live up to his finisher's tag. Karthik has continued his red-hot form with the bat in the ongoing five-match T20I series against the Proteas and is presenting a strong case for selection in India's T20 World Cup 2022 squad.</p>

<p>He has been in the form of his life and has been enjoying his batting. The 37-year-old slammed a fabulous knock of 55 runs off 27 balls to produce yet another sensational finish and emerge as India's hero with the willow in the 4th T20I against South Africa on Friday. India won the game comfortably by 82 runs after successfully defending the total of 169 runs in Rajkot to level the series 2-2.</p>

<p>After his finishing heroics in the game, Karthik's old chat with Indian cricket team captain Rohit Sharma on his Instagram post has gone viral. Not too long ago, Karthik had joined the commentary team for India's Test series in England last year with many speculating his international career was all but over.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rishabh-pant-vs-dinesh-karthik-dale-steyn-picks-indias-wicket-keeper-batter-for-t20-world-cup-2022-489411">Pant vs&nbsp;Karthik? Dale Steyn picks India's wicket-keeper batter for T20 World Cup 2022</a></p>

<p>However, the wicket-keeper batter has since been on a redemption journey and continues to prove his critics wrong with the bat. Karthik had shared a picture of himself on Instagram from his commentary stint during India's tour of England last year. Reacting to his post, India's current skipper Rohit had reminded the wicket-keeper that he still has a lot of cricket left in him.</p>

<p>“You still have some cricket left. FYI!,” Rohit wrote on Karthik's post. “Don’t ever doubt that sham,” Karthik had responded with a wink emoticon. The chat between the duo has now gone viral after Karthik's incredible comeback in Team India.</p>

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<img alt="Rohit DK chat" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="45d73949-e021-4374-a4d8-221982721a49" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Rohit%20DK.png" /></p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rishabh-pant-is-overweight-danish-kaneria-raises-questions-over-indian-skippers-fitness-489557">'Rishabh Pant is overweight': Danish Kaneria raises questions over Indian skipper's fitness</a></p>

<p>It has been an incredible turnaround for Karthik since that chat with Rohit last year as he has now all but cemented his spot in India's lower-middle order in the shortest format as the designated finisher of the team. He has been excellent with the bat in the absence of Rohit in the onging T20I series against South Africa and will hope to continue his fine form in the upcoming tournaments.</p>

<p>Karthik will once again be under the spotlight when India lock horns with South Africa in the series-deciding final fifth T20I at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Sunday (June 19).</p>


Dinesh Karthik has scripted a fairytale redemption tale with his batting exploits for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and the Indian cricket team.

Dinesh Karthik has scripted a fairytale redemption tale with his batting exploits for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and the Indian cricket team. Karthik emerged as a brilliant finisher for RCB in the recently-concluded IPL 2022 where he impressed many with his sensational performances in the lower-middle order. With the help of his finishing heroics, the veteran wicket-keeper managed to earn a spot in the Indian T20I squad for the ongoing series against South Africa at home and has managed to live up to his finisher's tag. Karthik has continued his red-hot form with the bat in the ongoing five-match T20I series against the Proteas and is presenting a strong case for selection in India's T20 World Cup 2022 squad. He has been in the form of his life and has been enjoying his batting. The 37-year-old slammed a fabulous knock of 55 runs off 27 balls to produce yet another sensational finish and emerge as India's hero with the willow in the 4th T20I against South Africa on Friday. India won the game comfortably by 82 runs after successfully defending the total of 169 runs in Rajkot to level the series 2-2. After his finishing heroics in the game, Karthik's old chat with Indian cricket team captain Rohit Sharma on his Instagram post has gone viral. Not too long ago, Karthik had joined the commentary team for India's Test series in England last year with many speculating his international career was all but over. Also Read: Pant vs Karthik? Dale Steyn picks India's wicket-keeper batter for T20 World Cup 2022 However, the wicket-keeper batter has since been on a redemption journey and continues to prove his critics wrong with the bat. Karthik had shared a picture of himself on Instagram from his commentary stint during India's tour of England last year. Reacting to his post, India's current skipper Rohit had reminded the wicket-keeper that he still has a lot of cricket left in him. “You still have some cricket left. FYI!,” Rohit wrote on Karthik's post. “Don’t ever doubt that sham,” Karthik had responded with a wink emoticon. The chat between the duo has now gone viral after Karthik's incredible comeback in Team India. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Dinesh Karthik (@dk00019) × Also Read: 'Rishabh Pant is overweight': Danish Kaneria raises questions over Indian skipper's fitness It has been an incredible turnaround for Karthik since that chat with Rohit last year as he has now all but cemented his spot in India's lower-middle order in the shortest format as the designated finisher of the team. He has been excellent with the bat in the absence of Rohit in the onging T20I series against South Africa and will hope to continue his fine form in the upcoming tournaments. Karthik will once again be under the spotlight when India lock horns with South Africa in the series-deciding final fifth T20I at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Sunday (June 19).

'You still have some cricket left': Rohit Sharma's old chat with Dinesh Karthik goes viral after his comeback

<p>Mohammed Shami is one of the most experienced fast bowlers in the Indian setup at present but is unlikely to be part of the Indian squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022, as per former India cricketer Ashish Nehra. Nehra believes Shami is not in the scheme of things for India ahead of the T20 World Cup 2022 which is just four months away. The next edition of the showpiece event will be played in Australia this year.</p>

<p>Shami was part of the Indian squad which had a disappointing campaign in the T20 World Cup 2021 in UAE last year. He featured in India's clash against Namibia at the World Cup and has since not managed to play a single T20I for the Men in Blue. He is not part of India's squad in the ongoing T20I series against South Africa at home.</p>

<p>While many believe he has a chance to make his comeback in the T20I side ahead of the World Cup, Nehra feels Shami won't make the cut. However, the former India pacer backed Shami to be part of India's squad for the 2023 ODI World Cup which will be played at home next year.</p>

<p>"Seems like he doesn't feature in the current scheme of things for the T20 World Cup. But we all know about his abilities. Even if he doesn't play in this year's T20 World Cup, India will definitely consider him for the 2023 World Cup at home. We don't have many ODIs this year and Shami is on a break at the moment after the IPL. India can play him in England for the 50-over games after the Test match," Nehra said on <em>Cricbuzz.</em></p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/should-be-mandatory-for-every-ipl-franchise-to-have-a-womens-team-lalit-modi-489604">Should be mandatory for every IPL franchise to have a women's team: Lalit Modi</a></p>

<p>Shami, who has been rested from the ongoing series against South Africa at home, will return to action when India take on England in the final sixth Test in July. He is expected to spearhead India's pace attack along with Jasprit Bumrah in the one-off Test match. Nehra wants India to play Shami in the white-ball matches as well after the Test match in order to have a full-strength bowling attack.</p>

<p>"We don't have many ODIs this year and Shami is on a break at the moment after IPL. India can play him in England for the 50-over games after the Test match. You will play three ODI games against a top-quality white-ball team like England, and you would definitely love to beat them. And for that, you need your best bowlers. I would definitely take Shami in that bracket," said Nehra.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rishabh-pant-is-overweight-danish-kaneria-raises-questions-over-indian-skippers-fitness-489557">'Rishabh Pant is overweight': Danish Kaneria raises questions over Indian skipper's fitness</a></p>

<p>Shami along with the likes of captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Bumrah had been rested from the T20I series against South Africa. India will next tour Ireland for a limited-overs series following the conclusion of the ongoing South Africa series before heading to England.</p>


Mohammed Shami is one of the most experienced fast bowlers in the Indian setup at present but is unlikely to be part of the Indian squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022, as per former India cricketer Ashish Nehra.

Mohammed Shami is one of the most experienced fast bowlers in the Indian setup at present but is unlikely to be part of the Indian squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022, as per former India cricketer Ashish Nehra. Nehra believes Shami is not in the scheme of things for India ahead of the T20 World Cup 2022 which is just four months away. The next edition of the showpiece event will be played in Australia this year. Shami was part of the Indian squad which had a disappointing campaign in the T20 World Cup 2021 in UAE last year. He featured in India's clash against Namibia at the World Cup and has since not managed to play a single T20I for the Men in Blue. He is not part of India's squad in the ongoing T20I series against South Africa at home. While many believe he has a chance to make his comeback in the T20I side ahead of the World Cup, Nehra feels Shami won't make the cut. However, the former India pacer backed Shami to be part of India's squad for the 2023 ODI World Cup which will be played at home next year. "Seems like he doesn't feature in the current scheme of things for the T20 World Cup. But we all know about his abilities. Even if he doesn't play in this year's T20 World Cup, India will definitely consider him for the 2023 World Cup at home. We don't have many ODIs this year and Shami is on a break at the moment after the IPL. India can play him in England for the 50-over games after the Test match," Nehra said on Cricbuzz. Also Read: Should be mandatory for every IPL franchise to have a women's team: Lalit Modi Shami, who has been rested from the ongoing series against South Africa at home, will return to action when India take on England in the final sixth Test in July. He is expected to spearhead India's pace attack along with Jasprit Bumrah in the one-off Test match. Nehra wants India to play Shami in the white-ball matches as well after the Test match in order to have a full-strength bowling attack. "We don't have many ODIs this year and Shami is on a break at the moment after IPL. India can play him in England for the 50-over games after the Test match. You will play three ODI games against a top-quality white-ball team like England, and you would definitely love to beat them. And for that, you need your best bowlers. I would definitely take Shami in that bracket," said Nehra. Also Read: 'Rishabh Pant is overweight': Danish Kaneria raises questions over Indian skipper's fitness Shami along with the likes of captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Bumrah had been rested from the T20I series against South Africa. India will next tour Ireland for a limited-overs series following the conclusion of the ongoing South Africa series before heading to England.

'Seems like he doesn't feature': Ashish Nehra feels Mohammed Shami won't make it to India's T20 WC squad

<p>The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is likely to launch a Women's Indian Premier League (IPL) the next year. BCCI secretary Jay Shah had recently said the project is close to his heart and the valuation of the tournament will shock many when it gets underway next year. Over the years, several prominent figures in the women's game have called for a women's version of the IPL pointing out how it would help strengthen the bench strength as far as women's cricket is concerned in India.</p>

<p>With several BCCI officials hinting that a full-fledged women's IPL is not too far away from materialising, former IPL chairman Lalit Modi has suggested a bold move to the BCCI. Modi, who was one of the brains behind the inception of IPL in 2008, wants every franchise in the tournament to also run a women's team along with their men's side.</p>

<p>Modi believes it should be mandatory for all the franchises to own a women's team as it would help improve the infrastructure of women's cricket in India. Currently, there are ten teams who are part of the IPL and none of them have a women's team.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-in-talks-with-icc-over-a-longer-window-for-ipl-confirms-jay-shah-number-of-matches-set-to-increase-489448">BCCI in talks with ICC over a longer window for IPL, confirms Jay Shah; number of matches set to increase</a></p>

<p>"I didn't see much of IPL women's games this year (Women's T20 Challenge), but I think one of the biggest things they should do is make it mandatory for an IPL franchise to have a women's team," Lalit Modi told NDTV.</p>

<p>"If an IPL franchise owner is able to have a women's team, you'll see the bench strength in Indian women's cricket go up. You'll see investment in women's cricket by owners who are already making good money now," he added.</p>

<p>Several franchise T20 leagues around the globe have already invested in a women's league or are planning to do so. The Big Bash League in Australia had the Women's Big Bash while The Hundred in England too has the&nbsp;Women's Hundred League. IPL also conducts the Women's T20 Challenge annually but the tournament is a short affair consisting of just a handful of matches between three teams.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rishabh-pant-is-overweight-danish-kaneria-raises-questions-over-indian-skippers-fitness-489557">'Rishabh Pant is overweight': Danish Kaneria raises questions over Indian skipper's fitness</a></p>

<p>BCCI secretary Shah had recently hinted at the start of Women's IPL from next year onwards and revealed several franchises are interested in owning a women's team for the tournament.</p>

<p>"This is a project which is very close to my heart. We will start with either five or six teams in the first edition. I am thrilled at the kind of response we have got from stakeholders. Multiple existing IPL teams have enquired and expressed serious interest in owning WIPL franchises," Shah told PTI.</p>


The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is likely to launch a Women's Indian Premier League (IPL) the next year. BCCI secretary Jay Shah had recently said the project is close to his heart and the valuation of the tournament will shock many when it gets underway next year.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is likely to launch a Women's Indian Premier League (IPL) the next year. BCCI secretary Jay Shah had recently said the project is close to his heart and the valuation of the tournament will shock many when it gets underway next year. Over the years, several prominent figures in the women's game have called for a women's version of the IPL pointing out how it would help strengthen the bench strength as far as women's cricket is concerned in India. With several BCCI officials hinting that a full-fledged women's IPL is not too far away from materialising, former IPL chairman Lalit Modi has suggested a bold move to the BCCI. Modi, who was one of the brains behind the inception of IPL in 2008, wants every franchise in the tournament to also run a women's team along with their men's side. Modi believes it should be mandatory for all the franchises to own a women's team as it would help improve the infrastructure of women's cricket in India. Currently, there are ten teams who are part of the IPL and none of them have a women's team. Also Read: BCCI in talks with ICC over a longer window for IPL, confirms Jay Shah; number of matches set to increase "I didn't see much of IPL women's games this year (Women's T20 Challenge), but I think one of the biggest things they should do is make it mandatory for an IPL franchise to have a women's team," Lalit Modi told NDTV. "If an IPL franchise owner is able to have a women's team, you'll see the bench strength in Indian women's cricket go up. You'll see investment in women's cricket by owners who are already making good money now," he added. Several franchise T20 leagues around the globe have already invested in a women's league or are planning to do so. The Big Bash League in Australia had the Women's Big Bash while The Hundred in England too has the Women's Hundred League. IPL also conducts the Women's T20 Challenge annually but the tournament is a short affair consisting of just a handful of matches between three teams. Also Read: 'Rishabh Pant is overweight': Danish Kaneria raises questions over Indian skipper's fitness BCCI secretary Shah had recently hinted at the start of Women's IPL from next year onwards and revealed several franchises are interested in owning a women's team for the tournament. "This is a project which is very close to my heart. We will start with either five or six teams in the first edition. I am thrilled at the kind of response we have got from stakeholders. Multiple existing IPL teams have enquired and expressed serious interest in owning WIPL franchises," Shah told PTI.

Should be mandatory for every IPL franchise to have a women's team: Lalit Modi

<p>India will lock horns with South Africa in the series-deciding fifth and final T20I of the ongoing five-match series at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Sunday (June 19). The series is currently locked at 2-2 after India won the last two games on the trot following defeats in the first two matches. India thrashed the visitors by 82 runs in the penultimate 4th T20I which was played in Rajkot on Friday. Rishabh Pant &amp; Co. will be hoping to continue their winning run against the Proteas on Sunday.</p>

<p>India didn't get off to an ideal start in the T20I series against South Africa with Pant leading the side in the absence of both Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul. The hosts lost the first two games on the trot before bouncing back to level the series and take it to the decider on Sunday.</p>

<p>While India's top-order failed to deliver yet again in the last encounter between the two sides, both Hardik Pandya and Dinesh Karthik continued their fabulous run with the bat. Karthik played a sensational knock of 27-ball 55 while Pandya scored a crucial 46 off 31 balls to help India post a fighting total of 169 runs on the board.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rishabh-pant-is-overweight-danish-kaneria-raises-questions-over-indian-skippers-fitness-489557">'Rishabh Pant is overweight': Danish Kaneria raises questions over Indian skipper's fitness</a></p>

<p>However, it turned out to be a one-sided affair after Avesh Khan ran riot with the ball during South Africa's run-chase. The Indian pacer picked up a four-wicket haul to bundle out the Proteas for a paltry 87 and secure a comfortable 82-run victory for the hosts.</p>

<p>India have not made any changes in their line-up throughout the series and are expected to field the same playing XI in the series decider in Bengaluru on Sunday. However, the batters will have to step up and give the hosts a good start at the top to ensure they can make the most of the batting-friendly track at the Chinnaswamy Stadium.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rishabh-pant-vs-dinesh-karthik-dale-steyn-picks-indias-wicket-keeper-batter-for-t20-world-cup-2022-489411">Rishabh Pant vs Dinesh Karthik? Dale Steyn picks India's wicket-keeper batter for T20 World Cup 2022</a></p>

<p>The spotlight will be on the likes of Ruturaj Gaikwad, Rishabh Pant and Shreyas Iyer, who have all been far from consistent in the ongoing series. Meanwhile, Yuzvenda Chahal would also be hoping to produce a better show with the ball after his lacklustre performances so far in the series.</p>

<p><strong>India vs South Africa 5th T20I prediction:</strong></p>

<p>India have found the winning momentum with back-to-back victories in the last two games and will be hoping to make it three wins in a row on Sunday. Pant &amp; Co. have a settled bowling attack and will hope for the batters to step up in the decider to help them clinch the series. India are likely to trounce South Africa and clinch the series on Sunday.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


India will lock horns with South Africa in the series-deciding fifth and final T20I of the ongoing five-match series at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Sunday (June 19).

India will lock horns with South Africa in the series-deciding fifth and final T20I of the ongoing five-match series at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Sunday (June 19). The series is currently locked at 2-2 after India won the last two games on the trot following defeats in the first two matches. India thrashed the visitors by 82 runs in the penultimate 4th T20I which was played in Rajkot on Friday. Rishabh Pant & Co. will be hoping to continue their winning run against the Proteas on Sunday. India didn't get off to an ideal start in the T20I series against South Africa with Pant leading the side in the absence of both Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul. The hosts lost the first two games on the trot before bouncing back to level the series and take it to the decider on Sunday. While India's top-order failed to deliver yet again in the last encounter between the two sides, both Hardik Pandya and Dinesh Karthik continued their fabulous run with the bat. Karthik played a sensational knock of 27-ball 55 while Pandya scored a crucial 46 off 31 balls to help India post a fighting total of 169 runs on the board. Also Read: 'Rishabh Pant is overweight': Danish Kaneria raises questions over Indian skipper's fitness However, it turned out to be a one-sided affair after Avesh Khan ran riot with the ball during South Africa's run-chase. The Indian pacer picked up a four-wicket haul to bundle out the Proteas for a paltry 87 and secure a comfortable 82-run victory for the hosts. India have not made any changes in their line-up throughout the series and are expected to field the same playing XI in the series decider in Bengaluru on Sunday. However, the batters will have to step up and give the hosts a good start at the top to ensure they can make the most of the batting-friendly track at the Chinnaswamy Stadium. Also Read: Rishabh Pant vs Dinesh Karthik? Dale Steyn picks India's wicket-keeper batter for T20 World Cup 2022 The spotlight will be on the likes of Ruturaj Gaikwad, Rishabh Pant and Shreyas Iyer, who have all been far from consistent in the ongoing series. Meanwhile, Yuzvenda Chahal would also be hoping to produce a better show with the ball after his lacklustre performances so far in the series. India vs South Africa 5th T20I prediction: India have found the winning momentum with back-to-back victories in the last two games and will be hoping to make it three wins in a row on Sunday. Pant & Co. have a settled bowling attack and will hope for the batters to step up in the decider to help them clinch the series. India are likely to trounce South Africa and clinch the series on Sunday.

IND vs SA prediction: Who will win series-deciding 5th T20I between India and South Africa in Bengaluru?

<p>Rishabh Pant has not enjoyed the best of time with the bat in the ongoing T20I series against South Africa at home. The stand-in skipper of the Indian team has been lauded by many for his captaincy but his form with the bat has been a major concern for the hosts with T20 World Cup 2022 just four months away. Pant has so far managed to score only 57 runs in the ongoing five-match series against the Proteas.</p>

<p>The series is currently tied at 2-2 after India defeated South Africa comprehensively by 82 runs in the 4th T20I on Friday. The series-decided will be played at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Sunday (June 19). Ahead of the decider, former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria made a bizarre statement raising questions over Pant's fitness amid his poor form.</p>

<p>Speaking in a video on his YouTube channel, Kaneria pointed out at the shortcomings as far as Pant's wicket-keeping is concerned. The former Pakistan cricketer said he has noticed that Pant doesn't squat lower or sit on his toes when keeping to pacers and that it seems like he is 'overweight'.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-kept-on-sexually-molesting-me-pakistan-cricket-board-suspends-coach-after-shocking-allegations-489437">'He kept on sexually molesting me': Pakistan cricket Board suspends coach after shocking allegations</a></p>

<p>“I want to talk about Pant's wicketkeeping. I've noticed one thing – he doesn't squat lower and sit on his toes when a fast bowler is bowling. Seems like he is overweight and being bulky doesn't give him that much time to come up quickly. It raises concern over his fitness," said Kaneria.</p>

<p>"Is he 100 per cent fit? But when it comes to his captain, bowlers and batters including Hardik and Karthik have supported him well. Pant also has a chance to become the first captain to win a T20 series against South Africa,” added the former Pakistan spinner.</p>

<p>India rode on Dinesh Karthik's heroic knock of 27-ball 55 and Hardik Pandya's 46 off 31 balls to post 169 runs on the board in the 4th T20I against the Proteas on Friday. Avesh Khan then bowled an exceptional spell to pick up a four-wicket haul and run through the South African batting line-up.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-hasnt-learned-sunil-gavaskar-slams-rishabh-pant-after-yet-another-disappointing-show-vs-south-africa-489317">'He hasn't learned': Gavaskar slams Rishabh Pant after yet another disappointing show vs South Africa</a></p>

<p>India bundled out the Proteas for a paltry 87 runs to win the game by 82 runs and level the series 2-2. The spotlight will be on Pant when India lock&nbsp;horns with South Africa in the series-decided in Bengaluru on Sunday. The Indian skipper will be hoping to prove his critics wrong with the bat in the final game of the series.</p>

<p><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Rishabh Pant has not enjoyed the best of time with the bat in the ongoing T20I series against South Africa at home. The stand-in skipper of the Indian team has been lauded by many for his captaincy but his form with the bat has been a major concern for the hosts with T20 World Cup 2022 just four months away.

Rishabh Pant has not enjoyed the best of time with the bat in the ongoing T20I series against South Africa at home. The stand-in skipper of the Indian team has been lauded by many for his captaincy but his form with the bat has been a major concern for the hosts with T20 World Cup 2022 just four months away. Pant has so far managed to score only 57 runs in the ongoing five-match series against the Proteas. The series is currently tied at 2-2 after India defeated South Africa comprehensively by 82 runs in the 4th T20I on Friday. The series-decided will be played at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Sunday (June 19). Ahead of the decider, former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria made a bizarre statement raising questions over Pant's fitness amid his poor form. Speaking in a video on his YouTube channel, Kaneria pointed out at the shortcomings as far as Pant's wicket-keeping is concerned. The former Pakistan cricketer said he has noticed that Pant doesn't squat lower or sit on his toes when keeping to pacers and that it seems like he is 'overweight'. Also Read: 'He kept on sexually molesting me': Pakistan cricket Board suspends coach after shocking allegations “I want to talk about Pant's wicketkeeping. I've noticed one thing – he doesn't squat lower and sit on his toes when a fast bowler is bowling. Seems like he is overweight and being bulky doesn't give him that much time to come up quickly. It raises concern over his fitness," said Kaneria. "Is he 100 per cent fit? But when it comes to his captain, bowlers and batters including Hardik and Karthik have supported him well. Pant also has a chance to become the first captain to win a T20 series against South Africa,” added the former Pakistan spinner. India rode on Dinesh Karthik's heroic knock of 27-ball 55 and Hardik Pandya's 46 off 31 balls to post 169 runs on the board in the 4th T20I against the Proteas on Friday. Avesh Khan then bowled an exceptional spell to pick up a four-wicket haul and run through the South African batting line-up. Also Read: 'He hasn't learned': Gavaskar slams Rishabh Pant after yet another disappointing show vs South Africa India bundled out the Proteas for a paltry 87 runs to win the game by 82 runs and level the series 2-2. The spotlight will be on Pant when India lock horns with South Africa in the series-decided in Bengaluru on Sunday. The Indian skipper will be hoping to prove his critics wrong with the bat in the final game of the series.

'Rishabh Pant is overweight': Danish Kaneria raises questions over Indian skipper's fitness

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