US President Donald Trump&nbsp;has become the first sitting US president to set foot inside North Korea when he crossed over the demarcation line.&nbsp;

Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un shook hands in the demilitarised zone (DMZ) that separates North and South Korea.

"It's nice to see you again," Kim reportedly told President Trump. "I never expected to meet you in this place."

About Trump stepping into North Korea, Kim Jong-un told&nbsp;"It's a very courageous and determined act."

Trump thanked Kim, and added that the two of them have "a great friendship".

It was a "great day for the world", Trump said after meeting North Korean leader Kim.

"It's an honour for me to be here," Trump added, as the two men talked with South Korean President Moon Jae-in on Seoul's side of the border.

"We met and liked each other from day one," Trump added.

Kim and Trump also had an informal chat amid the media scrum.

Trump said ''We are hearing from Kim directly''.

“You hear that voice, no one hears this voice, he doesn’t do press conferences,” he said.

Trump said he wants to thank Kim for responding to his Twitter invitation to meet.

“If he didn’t show up the press was going to make me look very bad,” said Trump.

“If you look back two-and-a-half years, before I was president, it was a very very bad situation, a very dangerous situation for North Korea, South Korea, for the world. The relationship we have developed has been so much for so many people,” Trump added.

“Thank you for asking me to step over that line, I didn’t know if you were going to ask me to do that, I thought you might, but I was ready to do that if you asked,” he added.

Trump called the meeting “very historic”.

Earlier Trump arrived Sunday in the DMZ accompanied by South Korean President Moon Jae-in.

An earnest-looking Trump toured an observation post overlooking North Korean territory, with a US military officer pointing out the sights.&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump has become the first sitting US president to set foot inside North Korea when he crossed over the demarcation line. Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un shook hands in the demilitarised zone (DMZ) that separates North and South Korea.

US President Donald Trump has become the first sitting US president to set foot inside North Korea when he crossed over the demarcation line. Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un shook hands in the demilitarised zone (DMZ) that separates North and South Korea. "It's nice to see you again," Kim reportedly told President Trump. "I never expected to meet you in this place." About Trump stepping into North Korea, Kim Jong-un told "It's a very courageous and determined act." Trump thanked Kim, and added that the two of them have "a great friendship". It was a "great day for the world", Trump said after meeting North Korean leader Kim. "It's an honour for me to be here," Trump added, as the two men talked with South Korean President Moon Jae-in on Seoul's side of the border. "We met and liked each other from day one," Trump added. Kim and Trump also had an informal chat amid the media scrum. Trump said ''We are hearing from Kim directly''. “You hear that voice, no one hears this voice, he doesn’t do press conferences,” he said. Trump said he wants to thank Kim for responding to his Twitter invitation to meet. “If he didn’t show up the press was going to make me look very bad,” said Trump. “If you look back two-and-a-half years, before I was president, it was a very very bad situation, a very dangerous situation for North Korea, South Korea, for the world. The relationship we have developed has been so much for so many people,” Trump added. “Thank you for asking me to step over that line, I didn’t know if you were going to ask me to do that, I thought you might, but I was ready to do that if you asked,” he added. Trump called the meeting “very historic”. Earlier Trump arrived Sunday in the DMZ accompanied by South Korean President Moon Jae-in. An earnest-looking Trump toured an observation post overlooking North Korean territory, with a US military officer pointing out the sights.

After exposing him on Twitter, Wriddhiman Saha unwilling to reveal name of journalist who threatened him

Legendary batter Sachin Tendulkar on Monday congratulated 16-year-old Indian Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa for defeating world champion, Magnus Carlsen in the eighth round of the Airthings Masters - an online rapid chess competition.

Tendulkar said Praggnanandhaa has made India proud and wished him a "successful" chess career ahead."What a wonderful feeling it must be for Pragg. All of 16, and to have beaten the experienced &amp; decorated Magnus Carlsen, and that too while playing black, is magical! Best wishes on a long &amp; successful chess career ahead. You've made India proud," Tendulkar tweeted.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/airthings-masters-indias-16-year-old-r-praggnanandhaa-stuns-world-champion-magnus-carlsen-455010">Airthings Masters: India's 16-year-old R Praggnanandhaa stuns world champion Magnus Carlsen</a>

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Praggnanandhaa has now become the third Indian to beat Carlsen.

Carlsen had racked up three wins in a row as he ominously cranked up the gears. But against 16-year-old Praggnanandhaa, he blundered badly, and the Indian star held firm for the win.

It was Praggnanandhaa's first win in any form of chess against the Norwegian and came on the back of having lost three games in a row. Carlsen finished down in fifth - up from 11th on the leaderboard on Sunday.

Legendary batter Sachin Tendulkar on Monday congratulated 16-year-old Indian Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa for defeating world champion, Magnus Carlsen in the eighth round of the Airthings Masters - an online rapid chess competition.

Legendary batter Sachin Tendulkar on Monday congratulated 16-year-old Indian Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa for defeating world champion, Magnus Carlsen in the eighth round of the Airthings Masters - an online rapid chess competition. Tendulkar said Praggnanandhaa has made India proud and wished him a "successful" chess career ahead."What a wonderful feeling it must be for Pragg. All of 16, and to have beaten the experienced & decorated Magnus Carlsen, and that too while playing black, is magical! Best wishes on a long & successful chess career ahead. You've made India proud," Tendulkar tweeted. ALSO READ: Airthings Masters: India's 16-year-old R Praggnanandhaa stuns world champion Magnus Carlsen × Praggnanandhaa has now become the third Indian to beat Carlsen. Carlsen had racked up three wins in a row as he ominously cranked up the gears. But against 16-year-old Praggnanandhaa, he blundered badly, and the Indian star held firm for the win. It was Praggnanandhaa's first win in any form of chess against the Norwegian and came on the back of having lost three games in a row. Carlsen finished down in fifth - up from 11th on the leaderboard on Sunday.

Sachin Tendulkar congratulates 16-year-old Indian Grand Master R Praggnanandhaa on defeating Magnus Carlsen

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

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

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

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

A fan during the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL) was spotted holding a banner, where he expressed his wish to see Virat Kohli's hundred in Pakistan. The poster was captured by the broadcasters and became an instant hit on social media platforms.

It remains a topic of discussion as the Pakistani fan's craze for Kohli was much appreciated. Now, former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar also joined the bandwagon and lauded the fan for 'spreading love' between the two countries.&nbsp;

Akhtar took to his official Twitter handle, on Monday (February 21),&nbsp;shared the photo of the fan along with his message&nbsp;and captioned the post, "Someone is spreading love at #GadaffiStadium #PSL #Pakistan #Virat Kohli". Here's the post from the Rawalpindi Express:

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Someone spreading love at the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GaddafiStadium?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GaddafiStadium</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PSL7?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PSL7</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pakistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pakistan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ViratKohli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ViratKohli</a> <a href="https://t.co/Eq2yIEGpdi">pic.twitter.com/Eq2yIEGpdi</a>
— Shoaib Akhtar (@shoaib100mph) <a href="https://twitter.com/shoaib100mph/status/1495664903432122373?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/want-to-see-your-century-in-pakistan-fans-message-for-virat-kohli-goes-viral-during-psl-2022-454359">'Want to see your century in Pakistan': Fan's message for Virat Kohli goes viral during PSL 2022</a>

For the unversed, Kohli has never played any competitive cricket at the senior level on Pakistan soil. In fact, he has only been&nbsp;part of a couple of bilateral series between the two Asian giants since his debut; due to the political tension between both countries.&nbsp;

Notably, Kohli is struggling to cross the triple-figure mark at the international level since late 2019. His last three-figure knock came against Bangladesh in India's maiden day-night Test in November 2019. Since then, he has done well in parts -- especially in white-ball formats -- but a big score has evaded him.&nbsp;

Kohli was last seen in action during the just-concluded India-West Indies T20Is at home. He will skip the forthcoming India-Sri Lanka home T20Is and return for the two Tests, starting on March 04.&nbsp;

A fan during the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL) was spotted holding a banner, where he expressed his wish to see Virat Kohli's hundred in Pakistan. The poster was captured by the broadcasters and became an instant hit on social media platforms.

A fan during the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL) was spotted holding a banner, where he expressed his wish to see Virat Kohli's hundred in Pakistan. The poster was captured by the broadcasters and became an instant hit on social media platforms. It remains a topic of discussion as the Pakistani fan's craze for Kohli was much appreciated. Now, former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar also joined the bandwagon and lauded the fan for 'spreading love' between the two countries. Akhtar took to his official Twitter handle, on Monday (February 21), shared the photo of the fan along with his message and captioned the post, "Someone is spreading love at #GadaffiStadium #PSL #Pakistan #Virat Kohli". Here's the post from the Rawalpindi Express: Someone spreading love at the #GaddafiStadium. #PSL7 #Pakistan #ViratKohli pic.twitter.com/Eq2yIEGpdi — Shoaib Akhtar (@shoaib100mph) February 21, 2022 × ALSO READ | 'Want to see your century in Pakistan': Fan's message for Virat Kohli goes viral during PSL 2022 For the unversed, Kohli has never played any competitive cricket at the senior level on Pakistan soil. In fact, he has only been part of a couple of bilateral series between the two Asian giants since his debut; due to the political tension between both countries. Notably, Kohli is struggling to cross the triple-figure mark at the international level since late 2019. His last three-figure knock came against Bangladesh in India's maiden day-night Test in November 2019. Since then, he has done well in parts -- especially in white-ball formats -- but a big score has evaded him. Kohli was last seen in action during the just-concluded India-West Indies T20Is at home. He will skip the forthcoming India-Sri Lanka home T20Is and return for the two Tests, starting on March 04.

Someone spreading love: Shoaib Akhtar lauds PSL fan for hoping for Virat Kohli's hundred in Pakistan

West Indies skipper Kieron Pollard lavished praise on Indian team star Suryakumar Yadav for his brilliant knock in the third and final T20I between the two sides at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata on Sunday (February 20). Pollard called Suryakumar a world-class player and said every batter in the world can learn something from him.

Suryakumar top-scored for India with a brilliant knock of 65 runs off 31 balls laced with seven sixes and a four in the third T20I against West Indies on Sunday. He combined with Venkatesh Iyer (35) to bail India out of trouble with a 91-run partnership for the fifth wicket.

Asked to bat first in the game, India got off to a poor start as they lost opener Ruturaj Gaikwad cheaply on 4 off 8 balls before Ishan Kishan (34) and Shreyas Iyer (25) added 53 runs for the second wicket. However, the duo departed in quick succession before skipper Rohit Sharma was also dismissed cheaply on 7 off 15 balls to leave India in a spot of bother at 93/4 inside 14 overs.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/today-there-is-another-opportunity-venkatesh-iyer-reveals-motivating-words-from-likeable-suryakumar-yadav-455016">Today, there is another opportunity: Iyer reveals motivating words from 'likeable' Suryakumar&nbsp;</a>

However, Suryakumar and Venkatesh steadied the ship for the hosts and staged a remarkable fightback to propel the team's total to 184/5 in 20 overs. Pollard, who shares the dressing room with Suryakumar at his IPL franchise Mumbai Indians, was all praise for the Indian batter after his heroics.

“Surya is a world-class player. I had the opportunity to play at Mumbai Indians with him since he first came in in 2011. Great to see he has grown a lot since then. He is doing great things for himself and India as a 360-degree player. All batters can take a page out of his book,” Pollard said during the virtual press conference after the match.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/venkatesh-iyer-is-ahead-of-hardik-pandya-in-race-for-a-spot-in-indias-t20-world-cup-squad-wasim-jaffer-455018">Venkatesh Iyer is ahead of Pandya in race for a spot in India's T20 World Cup squad: Wasim Jaffer</a>

While he was the top-scorer for India in the third and final T20I, Suryakumar also finished the three-match series as the highest run-getter for India with 107 runs at an average of over 53 and a strike rate close to 195. India won the third T20I against West Indies by 17 runs after successfully defending the&nbsp;total of 184 runs to complete a 3-0 series whitewash.

Earlier, Rohit &amp; Co. had also completed a 3-0 whitewash against West Indies in the three-match ODI series.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

West Indies skipper Kieron Pollard lavished praise on Indian team star Suryakumar Yadav for his brilliant knock in the third and final T20I between the two sides at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata on Sunday (February 20).

West Indies skipper Kieron Pollard lavished praise on Indian team star Suryakumar Yadav for his brilliant knock in the third and final T20I between the two sides at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata on Sunday (February 20). Pollard called Suryakumar a world-class player and said every batter in the world can learn something from him. Suryakumar top-scored for India with a brilliant knock of 65 runs off 31 balls laced with seven sixes and a four in the third T20I against West Indies on Sunday. He combined with Venkatesh Iyer (35) to bail India out of trouble with a 91-run partnership for the fifth wicket. Asked to bat first in the game, India got off to a poor start as they lost opener Ruturaj Gaikwad cheaply on 4 off 8 balls before Ishan Kishan (34) and Shreyas Iyer (25) added 53 runs for the second wicket. However, the duo departed in quick succession before skipper Rohit Sharma was also dismissed cheaply on 7 off 15 balls to leave India in a spot of bother at 93/4 inside 14 overs. Also Read: Today, there is another opportunity: Iyer reveals motivating words from 'likeable' Suryakumar However, Suryakumar and Venkatesh steadied the ship for the hosts and staged a remarkable fightback to propel the team's total to 184/5 in 20 overs. Pollard, who shares the dressing room with Suryakumar at his IPL franchise Mumbai Indians, was all praise for the Indian batter after his heroics. “Surya is a world-class player. I had the opportunity to play at Mumbai Indians with him since he first came in in 2011. Great to see he has grown a lot since then. He is doing great things for himself and India as a 360-degree player. All batters can take a page out of his book,” Pollard said during the virtual press conference after the match. Also Read: Venkatesh Iyer is ahead of Pandya in race for a spot in India's T20 World Cup squad: Wasim Jaffer While he was the top-scorer for India in the third and final T20I, Suryakumar also finished the three-match series as the highest run-getter for India with 107 runs at an average of over 53 and a strike rate close to 195. India won the third T20I against West Indies by 17 runs after successfully defending the total of 184 runs to complete a 3-0 series whitewash. Earlier, Rohit & Co. had also completed a 3-0 whitewash against West Indies in the three-match ODI series.

'Suryakumar Yadav is world class': Kieron Pollard lauds Indian batter after brilliant knock vs West Indies

The ten IPL teams spent around Rs 551 crore (INR 5.51 billion) at the 2022 mega auction to rope in some of the top players from around the world in their respective squads. Indian wicket-keeper batter Ishan Kishan emerged as the costliest buy at the IPL 2022 mega auction after being bought by Mumbai Indians for a sum of Rs 15.25 crore.

The IPL millionaires - Most expensive picks at 2022 auction

India's head coach Rahul Dravid is not "hurt" by Wriddhiman Saha revealing the "difficult" conversation that the two had about his future as he firmly believes that the veteran keeper-batter "deserved the honesty and clarity" which was provided to him.

Saha, whose India career has come to a halt, recently told the media that Dravid asked him to consider retirement during a private conversation after the South Africa series last month.

Dravid said his intention behind talking to Saha was to ensure he has a clear picture of where he stands and he does not regret it.

"I'm actually not hurt at all. I have deep respect for Wriddhi and his achievements and his contribution to Indian cricket. My conversation came from that place. I think he deserved honesty and clarity," Dravid replied at the end of the T20 series against the West Indies which India won 3-0 on Sunday.

The 37-year-old, who has played 40 Tests for India, was dropped from the squad ahead of the upcoming home series against Sri Lanka. He subsequently pulled out of the ongoing Ranji Trophy as well.

Dravid said he will continue having such conversations with players whether they like the discussion or not. 
"It's about conversations I constantly have with players. I don't expect players to always agree with everything I say about them.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/time-for-sourav-ganguly-to-step-in-ravi-shastri-shocked-as-wriddhiman-saha-threatened-by-a-journalist-454956">Time for Sourav Ganguly to step in: Ravi Shastri 'shocked' as Wriddhiman Saha threatened by a journalist</a>

"That's not how it works. You can have difficult conversations with the players, but that doesn't mean you brush it under the carpet and don't have the conversations," Dravid was crystal clear about his approach.

Dravid said that his philosophy is to have discussions with players before every playing XI is picked.

"I always believe in having those conversations before every playing XI is picked and be open to questions such as why they are not playing. It's natural for players to get upset and feel hurt," he said.

Dravid also explained the rationale behind speaking to Saha, saying that it was necessary as Rishabh Pant has already established himself as the new No.1 wicketkeeper across formats and the Bengal man wouldn't have got chances going forward.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dravid-suggested-retirement-ganguly-assured-test-spot-wriddhiman-saha-makes-explosive-revelations-454719">Dravid suggested retirement, Ganguly assured Test spot: Wriddhiman Saha makes explosive revelations</a>

"I was just trying to convey that with RP (Pant), having established himself as our No.1 wicketkeeper-batsman, the idea was to say that we are looking to groom a younger wicketkeeper (Kona Bharat).

"This doesn't change my feelings or respect for Wriddhi," he asserted.

For Dravid, telling a harsh truth is better than avoiding a conversation altogether. "Easiest thing for me is to not have these conversations and not speak to players about it. That's not what I am going to do.

"But at some stage, I hope they respect the fact that I was able to front up and have those conversations," he added.&nbsp;

India's head coach Rahul Dravid is not "hurt" by Wriddhiman Saha revealing the "difficult" conversation that the two had about his future as he firmly believes that the veteran keeper-batter "deserved the honesty and clarity" which was provided to him.

India's head coach Rahul Dravid is not "hurt" by Wriddhiman Saha revealing the "difficult" conversation that the two had about his future as he firmly believes that the veteran keeper-batter "deserved the honesty and clarity" which was provided to him. Saha, whose India career has come to a halt, recently told the media that Dravid asked him to consider retirement during a private conversation after the South Africa series last month. Dravid said his intention behind talking to Saha was to ensure he has a clear picture of where he stands and he does not regret it. "I'm actually not hurt at all. I have deep respect for Wriddhi and his achievements and his contribution to Indian cricket. My conversation came from that place. I think he deserved honesty and clarity," Dravid replied at the end of the T20 series against the West Indies which India won 3-0 on Sunday. The 37-year-old, who has played 40 Tests for India, was dropped from the squad ahead of the upcoming home series against Sri Lanka. He subsequently pulled out of the ongoing Ranji Trophy as well. Dravid said he will continue having such conversations with players whether they like the discussion or not. "It's about conversations I constantly have with players. I don't expect players to always agree with everything I say about them. Also Read: Time for Sourav Ganguly to step in: Ravi Shastri 'shocked' as Wriddhiman Saha threatened by a journalist "That's not how it works. You can have difficult conversations with the players, but that doesn't mean you brush it under the carpet and don't have the conversations," Dravid was crystal clear about his approach. Dravid said that his philosophy is to have discussions with players before every playing XI is picked. "I always believe in having those conversations before every playing XI is picked and be open to questions such as why they are not playing. It's natural for players to get upset and feel hurt," he said. Dravid also explained the rationale behind speaking to Saha, saying that it was necessary as Rishabh Pant has already established himself as the new No.1 wicketkeeper across formats and the Bengal man wouldn't have got chances going forward. Also Read: Dravid suggested retirement, Ganguly assured Test spot: Wriddhiman Saha makes explosive revelations "I was just trying to convey that with RP (Pant), having established himself as our No.1 wicketkeeper-batsman, the idea was to say that we are looking to groom a younger wicketkeeper (Kona Bharat). "This doesn't change my feelings or respect for Wriddhi," he asserted. For Dravid, telling a harsh truth is better than avoiding a conversation altogether. "Easiest thing for me is to not have these conversations and not speak to players about it. That's not what I am going to do. "But at some stage, I hope they respect the fact that I was able to front up and have those conversations," he added.

Not hurt by Wriddhiman Saha's comments, he deserved honesty and clarity about his position: Rahul Dravid

India continued their dominant run against West Indies in the third and final T20I on Sunday as they thrashed the visitors by 17 runs at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata to complete a 3-0 whitewash in the T20I series. It was a brilliant all-round performance from Rohit Sharma &amp; Co., who rode on Suryakumar Yadav's blistering half-century to post a strong total of 185 runs on the board before Harshal Patel's exceptional spell helped them defend it comfortably.

While India have now moved to the top spot in the ICC T20I rankings with back to back clean sweeps in their last two T20I series, captain Rohit has also managed to create a new captaincy record. With the team's 3-0 clean sweep against Kieron Pollard's men, Rohit has become the first Indian captain to lead the side to 3 or more series whitewashes in T20Is.

No Indian captain before the Hitman had managed to achieve the feat in the shortest format of the game. Rohit has led India to series clean sweeps against Sri Lanka (2017), New Zealand (2021) and West Indies (2022). He has become only the third captain in the world after Pakistan Sarfaraz Ahmed (5) and Afghanistan's Asghar Afghan (4) to win three or more T20Is series without losing a single game.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/time-for-sourav-ganguly-to-step-in-ravi-shastri-shocked-as-wriddhiman-saha-threatened-by-a-journalist-454956">Time for Sourav Ganguly to step in: Shastri 'shocked' as Wriddhiman Saha threatened by a journalist</a> 
&nbsp;

Asked to bat first, India got off to a poor start as opener Ruturaj Gaikwad failed to make an impact and was dismissed cheaply on 4 off 8 balls before Ishan Kishan &nbsp;(34) combined with Shreyas Iyer (25) to add 53 runs for the second wicket. Skipper Rohit, who demoted himself to no.4 in order to let Gaikwad and Kishan open the innings, also couldn't get going and was dismissed on 7 off 15 deliveries.

However, Suryakumar and Venkatesh Iyer helped India stage a brilliant comeback in the game as the duo posted a brilliant stand of 91 runs for the 5th wicket. Both Suryakumar and Venkatesh went after the West Indies bowlers and took them to the cleaners during their entertaining partnership.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/suryakumar-yadav-harshal-patel-impress-as-india-thrash-west-indies-by-17-runs-in-3rd-t20i-clinch-series-3-0-454904">Suryakumar Yadav, Harshal Patel impress as India thrash West Indies by 17 runs in 3rd T20I, clinch series 3-0</a>

While Suryakumar slammed a quickfire 65 off 31 balls laced with seven sixes and a four, Venkatesh scored 35 off 19 balls with the help of 4 fours and two sixes. It was a dominant display from the duo, who propelled India to a strong total of 184 runs.

The bowlers too didn't disappoint and bowled extremely well in the death overs to restrict West Indies on 167/9 in 20 overs. While Harshal was the pick of the bowlers for his exceptional spell of 3/22 in his 4 overs, Shardul Thakur, Deepak Chahar and Venkatesh all picked up two wickets apiece.

India continued their dominant run against West Indies in the third and final T20I on Sunday as they thrashed the visitors by 17 runs at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata to complete a 3-0 whitewash in the T20I series.

India continued their dominant run against West Indies in the third and final T20I on Sunday as they thrashed the visitors by 17 runs at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata to complete a 3-0 whitewash in the T20I series. It was a brilliant all-round performance from Rohit Sharma & Co., who rode on Suryakumar Yadav's blistering half-century to post a strong total of 185 runs on the board before Harshal Patel's exceptional spell helped them defend it comfortably. While India have now moved to the top spot in the ICC T20I rankings with back to back clean sweeps in their last two T20I series, captain Rohit has also managed to create a new captaincy record. With the team's 3-0 clean sweep against Kieron Pollard's men, Rohit has become the first Indian captain to lead the side to 3 or more series whitewashes in T20Is. No Indian captain before the Hitman had managed to achieve the feat in the shortest format of the game. Rohit has led India to series clean sweeps against Sri Lanka (2017), New Zealand (2021) and West Indies (2022). He has become only the third captain in the world after Pakistan Sarfaraz Ahmed (5) and Afghanistan's Asghar Afghan (4) to win three or more T20Is series without losing a single game. Also Read: Time for Sourav Ganguly to step in: Shastri 'shocked' as Wriddhiman Saha threatened by a journalist Asked to bat first, India got off to a poor start as opener Ruturaj Gaikwad failed to make an impact and was dismissed cheaply on 4 off 8 balls before Ishan Kishan (34) combined with Shreyas Iyer (25) to add 53 runs for the second wicket. Skipper Rohit, who demoted himself to no.4 in order to let Gaikwad and Kishan open the innings, also couldn't get going and was dismissed on 7 off 15 deliveries. However, Suryakumar and Venkatesh Iyer helped India stage a brilliant comeback in the game as the duo posted a brilliant stand of 91 runs for the 5th wicket. Both Suryakumar and Venkatesh went after the West Indies bowlers and took them to the cleaners during their entertaining partnership. Also Read: Suryakumar Yadav, Harshal Patel impress as India thrash West Indies by 17 runs in 3rd T20I, clinch series 3-0 While Suryakumar slammed a quickfire 65 off 31 balls laced with seven sixes and a four, Venkatesh scored 35 off 19 balls with the help of 4 fours and two sixes. It was a dominant display from the duo, who propelled India to a strong total of 184 runs. The bowlers too didn't disappoint and bowled extremely well in the death overs to restrict West Indies on 167/9 in 20 overs. While Harshal was the pick of the bowlers for his exceptional spell of 3/22 in his 4 overs, Shardul Thakur, Deepak Chahar and Venkatesh all picked up two wickets apiece.

Rohit Sharma creates new captaincy record as India complete 3-0 whitewash aganst West Indies in T20Is

Wriddhiman Saha was not picked in India's Test squad for the upcoming Sri Lanka series at home. Saha was among four senior players who were dropped from the squad for the two-match series against the visitors. The Chetan Sharma-led selection panel announced India's T20I and Test squad in a virtual press conference on Saturday (February 29).

While Rohit Sharma was appointed India's permanent captain in Tests, the selectors made a bold call by dropping senior players like Ajinkya Rahane, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ishant Sharma and Saha. While chief selector Sharma refused to divulge the details of the reason behind not including Saha in the squad, he also insisted the senior wicket-keeper not playing in the ongoing Ranji Trophy is not a concern for the selectors.

His non-selection has not gone down well with Saha, who has made some explosive revelations after being dropped from the Indian Test squad. The senior wicket-keeper batter revealed that he had received an assurance from BCCI president Sourav Ganguly that his spot in the Indian Test team is secure as long as he is at the helm of the Indian cricket board.

Saha had played a crucial knock of 61 runs in the first Test against New Zealand last year to bail India out of trouble in Kanpur. Saha claimed it was after his unbeaten 61 against the Kiwis that he had received a message from Ganguly, the president of BCCI, assuring him of his spot is safe in the Test team as long as he was there.

“After scoring 61 against New Zealand at Kanpur, Dadi (Ganguly) congratulated me over WhatsApp and mentioned, ‘As long as I’m here (helming the BCCI), you would be in the team’. Such a message from the BCCI president really boosted my confidence. What I’m struggling to understand is that how things have changed so fast,” Saha was quoted as saying by PTI.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chief-selector-chetan-sharma-explains-reason-behind-dropping-pujara-rahane-from-indias-test-squad-454610">Chief selector Chetan Sharma explains reason behind dropping Pujara, Rahane from India's Test squad</a>

Rahul Dravid asked me to consider retiring: Wriddhman Saha&nbsp;

After venting his frustration out against BCCI president Ganguly, Saha also made some startling revelations against India's current head coach Rahul Dravid. The senior wicket-keeper batter said he was told by the Indian team management that he will not be considered for selection in the Test side anymore and that he should retire.

"The team management had told me that I would not be considered henceforth. I could not tell this so long as I was part of the India team setup. Even coach Rahul Dravid suggested that I think about taking retirement," PTI quoted Saha as saying.

The Indian team has replaced Saha with the young KS Bharat, who has been churning out great performances in the domestic circuit and is seen as a potential long-term competitor for Rishabh Pant as wicket-keeper in the longest format.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-named-test-captain-as-bcci-announces-squad-for-sri-lanka-series-pujara-rahane-dropped-454583">Rohit&nbsp;named Test captain as BCCI announces squad for Sri Lanka series; Pujara, Rahane dropped</a>

Saha, who is currently not playing the ongoing Ranji Trophy, is unlikely to make a comeback in the Indian Test side if he fails to prove his mettle once again in the domestic circuit. 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Wriddhiman Saha was not picked in India's Test squad for the upcoming Sri Lanka series at home. Saha was among four senior players who were dropped from the squad for the two-match series against the visitors.

Wriddhiman Saha was not picked in India's Test squad for the upcoming Sri Lanka series at home. Saha was among four senior players who were dropped from the squad for the two-match series against the visitors. The Chetan Sharma-led selection panel announced India's T20I and Test squad in a virtual press conference on Saturday (February 29). While Rohit Sharma was appointed India's permanent captain in Tests, the selectors made a bold call by dropping senior players like Ajinkya Rahane, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ishant Sharma and Saha. While chief selector Sharma refused to divulge the details of the reason behind not including Saha in the squad, he also insisted the senior wicket-keeper not playing in the ongoing Ranji Trophy is not a concern for the selectors. His non-selection has not gone down well with Saha, who has made some explosive revelations after being dropped from the Indian Test squad. The senior wicket-keeper batter revealed that he had received an assurance from BCCI president Sourav Ganguly that his spot in the Indian Test team is secure as long as he is at the helm of the Indian cricket board. Saha had played a crucial knock of 61 runs in the first Test against New Zealand last year to bail India out of trouble in Kanpur. Saha claimed it was after his unbeaten 61 against the Kiwis that he had received a message from Ganguly, the president of BCCI, assuring him of his spot is safe in the Test team as long as he was there. “After scoring 61 against New Zealand at Kanpur, Dadi (Ganguly) congratulated me over WhatsApp and mentioned, ‘As long as I’m here (helming the BCCI), you would be in the team’. Such a message from the BCCI president really boosted my confidence. What I’m struggling to understand is that how things have changed so fast,” Saha was quoted as saying by PTI. Also Read: Chief selector Chetan Sharma explains reason behind dropping Pujara, Rahane from India's Test squad Rahul Dravid asked me to consider retiring: Wriddhman Saha After venting his frustration out against BCCI president Ganguly, Saha also made some startling revelations against India's current head coach Rahul Dravid. The senior wicket-keeper batter said he was told by the Indian team management that he will not be considered for selection in the Test side anymore and that he should retire. "The team management had told me that I would not be considered henceforth. I could not tell this so long as I was part of the India team setup. Even coach Rahul Dravid suggested that I think about taking retirement," PTI quoted Saha as saying. The Indian team has replaced Saha with the young KS Bharat, who has been churning out great performances in the domestic circuit and is seen as a potential long-term competitor for Rishabh Pant as wicket-keeper in the longest format. Also Read: Rohit named Test captain as BCCI announces squad for Sri Lanka series; Pujara, Rahane dropped Saha, who is currently not playing the ongoing Ranji Trophy, is unlikely to make a comeback in the Indian Test side if he fails to prove his mettle once again in the domestic circuit.

Dravid suggested retirement, Ganguly assured Test spot: Wriddhiman Saha makes explosive revelations

Amazon's rivalry in India with oil-to-retail conglomerate Reliance Industries looks set to head to the cricket field, where they will likely battle media heavyweights for telecast rights to India's premier cricket league with its hundreds of millions of viewers.

Amazon.com Inc and Reliance Industries Ltd are expected to take on India units of Sony Group Corp and Walt Disney Co for exclusive five-year TV and digital broadcast rights to the two-month series of matches, at a cost that could run to a record 500 billion rupees ($6.7 billion), sources familiar with the companies'&nbsp;plans said.

"Cricket is the second-biggest sport in the world with two-and-a-half billion fans and IPL is like its Super Bowl," said Anton Rublievskyi, head of Parimatch, a betting company that advertised at the Indian Premier League (IPL) last year.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-application-of-mind-former-selector-questions-gaikwad-sarfarazs-non-selection-in-indias-test-squad-454825">'No application of mind': Former selector questions Gaikwad, Sarfaraz's non-selection in India's Test squad</a>

"If you're not there, you do not exist."

Disney-owned Star India, which is one of the top broadcasters in India along with Sony and its planned acquisition Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd, paid 163.48 billion rupees for the digital and television rights until 2022.

The league's matches reached 350 million viewers during the first half of the 2021 season alone.

But traditional media firms now face stiff competition from deep-pocketed rivals like Reliance, India's biggest retailer, and Amazon, two billionaire-led behemoths competing for the fast-growing e-commerce market while building up their digital platforms.&nbsp;

Amazon and Reliance are already locked in a pitched courtroom battle over the acquisiton of assets of Future Group, another big India retailer.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kusal-mendis-dasun-shanaka-star-as-sri-lanka-win-5th-t20i-against-australia-by-5-wickets-454798">Kusal Mendis, Dasun Shanaka star as Sri Lanka win 5th T20I against Australia by 5 wickets</a>

Reliance is also in talks with investors, including foreigners, to raise up to $1.6 billion for its broadcasting joint venture, Viacom18.

"Winning this bid is critical to Reliance's long-term plans for its Jio platform and its digital expansion," said a source with direct knowledge of the company's strategy.

"Everything that has happened at Viacom18 in the last few months, like buying rights to the Spanish La Liga and setting up a sports channel, has been building up to this," the source said.

Reliance and Viacom18 did not respond to requests for comment.

Amazon, whose Prime Video platform recently began live-streaming cricket matches, wants to win the IPL rights to expand the platform's user base, another industry source familiar with the company's thinking said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/csk-will-try-to-get-him-back-no-one-will-expect-us-how-rcb-planned-faf-du-plessis-signing-at-ipl-auction-454816">'CSK will try to get him back, no one will expect us': How RCB planned Faf du Plessis' signing at IPL auction</a>

An Amazon India spokesperson did not respond to a request for comment.

The company lacks a TV platform and would need to bring in a TV partner or could only bid for the digital portion.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), which runs the tender, awarded it in 2017 to a consolidated TV and digital bid from Star, which surpassed any of the combined individual bids.

Industry sources expect flexibility from the BCCI given the prospects for record payments by bidders including a deep-pocketed digital-only player like Amazon.

BCCI secretary Jay Shah, in an interview with Reuters, said the board had studied various models and proposals but he did not comment on details or the likely dollar value of the bids.

"We will do our best to derive the right value a tournament like the IPL deserves," he said.

Among the media majors, Disney India did not respond to a request for comment but Disney CEO Bob Chapek told a recent earnings teleconference that the company was confident of achieving its subscriber targets in India even without IPL rights.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-yuzi-chahal-leaves-irfan-chopra-in-splits-on-being-asked-about-bishnois-dropped-catch-off-his-bowling-454631">WATCH: Yuzi Chahal leaves Irfan, Chopra in splits on being asked about Bishnoi's dropped catch off his bowling</a>

Sony's India entertainment unit said it would evaluate bids for both broadcast and digital rights.

Some in the industry however, are questioning the sharp rise in the cost of the rights and whether it is sustainable.

"The IPL has got to a stage where it's now too big to fail and therefore everyone who is part of the ecosystem is propping it up," said advertising industry veteran Meenakshi Menon.

Amazon's rivalry in India with oil-to-retail conglomerate Reliance Industries looks set to head to the cricket field, where they will likely battle media heavyweights for telecast rights to India's premier cricket league with its hundreds of millions of viewers.

Amazon's rivalry in India with oil-to-retail conglomerate Reliance Industries looks set to head to the cricket field, where they will likely battle media heavyweights for telecast rights to India's premier cricket league with its hundreds of millions of viewers. Amazon.com Inc and Reliance Industries Ltd are expected to take on India units of Sony Group Corp and Walt Disney Co for exclusive five-year TV and digital broadcast rights to the two-month series of matches, at a cost that could run to a record 500 billion rupees ($6.7 billion), sources familiar with the companies' plans said. "Cricket is the second-biggest sport in the world with two-and-a-half billion fans and IPL is like its Super Bowl," said Anton Rublievskyi, head of Parimatch, a betting company that advertised at the Indian Premier League (IPL) last year. ALSO READ: 'No application of mind': Former selector questions Gaikwad, Sarfaraz's non-selection in India's Test squad "If you're not there, you do not exist." Disney-owned Star India, which is one of the top broadcasters in India along with Sony and its planned acquisition Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd, paid 163.48 billion rupees for the digital and television rights until 2022. The league's matches reached 350 million viewers during the first half of the 2021 season alone. But traditional media firms now face stiff competition from deep-pocketed rivals like Reliance, India's biggest retailer, and Amazon, two billionaire-led behemoths competing for the fast-growing e-commerce market while building up their digital platforms. Amazon and Reliance are already locked in a pitched courtroom battle over the acquisiton of assets of Future Group, another big India retailer. ALSO READ: Kusal Mendis, Dasun Shanaka star as Sri Lanka win 5th T20I against Australia by 5 wickets Reliance is also in talks with investors, including foreigners, to raise up to $1.6 billion for its broadcasting joint venture, Viacom18. "Winning this bid is critical to Reliance's long-term plans for its Jio platform and its digital expansion," said a source with direct knowledge of the company's strategy. "Everything that has happened at Viacom18 in the last few months, like buying rights to the Spanish La Liga and setting up a sports channel, has been building up to this," the source said. Reliance and Viacom18 did not respond to requests for comment. Amazon, whose Prime Video platform recently began live-streaming cricket matches, wants to win the IPL rights to expand the platform's user base, another industry source familiar with the company's thinking said. ALSO READ: 'CSK will try to get him back, no one will expect us': How RCB planned Faf du Plessis' signing at IPL auction An Amazon India spokesperson did not respond to a request for comment. The company lacks a TV platform and would need to bring in a TV partner or could only bid for the digital portion. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), which runs the tender, awarded it in 2017 to a consolidated TV and digital bid from Star, which surpassed any of the combined individual bids. Industry sources expect flexibility from the BCCI given the prospects for record payments by bidders including a deep-pocketed digital-only player like Amazon. BCCI secretary Jay Shah, in an interview with Reuters, said the board had studied various models and proposals but he did not comment on details or the likely dollar value of the bids. "We will do our best to derive the right value a tournament like the IPL deserves," he said. Among the media majors, Disney India did not respond to a request for comment but Disney CEO Bob Chapek told a recent earnings teleconference that the company was confident of achieving its subscriber targets in India even without IPL rights. ALSO READ: WATCH: Yuzi Chahal leaves Irfan, Chopra in splits on being asked about Bishnoi's dropped catch off his bowling Sony's India entertainment unit said it would evaluate bids for both broadcast and digital rights. Some in the industry however, are questioning the sharp rise in the cost of the rights and whether it is sustainable. "The IPL has got to a stage where it's now too big to fail and therefore everyone who is part of the ecosystem is propping it up," said advertising industry veteran Meenakshi Menon.

Amazon, Reliance set to battle it out for IPL telecast rights

Ahead of the three-match T20I series versus West Indies, India's white-ball captain Rohit Sharma shunned reporters for adding too much hype regarding Virat Kohli's indifferent form. For the unversed, the 33-year-old ended with only 26 runs in the three ODIs versus Kieron Pollard-led Windies. Thus,&nbsp;talks have intensified on Kohli's form as the 33-year-old remains without a century since late 2019.

“It starts from you guys (media). If you guys keep quiet for a while, he'll be alright. If you don't do much talking from your side, everything will be taken care of," Rohit had said in the pre-match presser ahead of the first T20I against the Men in Maroon in Kolkata.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/want-to-see-your-century-in-pakistan-fans-message-for-virat-kohli-goes-viral-during-psl-2022-454359">'Want to see your century in Pakistan': Fan's message for Virat Kohli goes viral during PSL 2022</a>

Reacting to Rohit's backing of his predecessor Kohli, former India player Nikhil Chopra feels Hitman's statement sends a strong message to the Indian dressing room. “I had said earlier as well that Rohit is the right candidate for captaincy because he has earned the respect of the dressing room. Everyone knows that the captain will back them even if they are not able to perform a specific role given to them. Players know the captain will never humiliate them publicly and keep backing them completely," Chopra said on the&nbsp;Khelneeti&nbsp;podcast.

Reflecting on Kohli's run of form, Chopra pointed out that the empty stands are also playing a role in the former captain's century drought.&nbsp;“I am not saying that it is happening with Kohli. But when a player receives appreciation for hitting fours and sixes, he feeds off that energy. In empty stadiums, your concentration might be affected as there is no reaction to big hits. We know a lot of players who take strength from crowd’s energy. Maybe, it might be affecting him a little bit," the ex-cricketer further pointed out.

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Kohli smashed a fifty (52) in the second and penultimate T20I versus the Windies, on Friday evening (February 18), at the eden Gardens, however, once again failed to convert it into a big score.&nbsp;

Rohit-led India lead the three T20Is 1-0 after winning the series opener, at the same venue, by six wickets.

Ahead of the three-match T20I series versus West Indies, India's white-ball captain Rohit Sharma shunned reporters for adding too much hype regarding Virat Kohli's indifferent form.

Ahead of the three-match T20I series versus West Indies, India's white-ball captain Rohit Sharma shunned reporters for adding too much hype regarding Virat Kohli's indifferent form. For the unversed, the 33-year-old ended with only 26 runs in the three ODIs versus Kieron Pollard-led Windies. Thus, talks have intensified on Kohli's form as the 33-year-old remains without a century since late 2019. “It starts from you guys (media). If you guys keep quiet for a while, he'll be alright. If you don't do much talking from your side, everything will be taken care of," Rohit had said in the pre-match presser ahead of the first T20I against the Men in Maroon in Kolkata. ALSO READ | 'Want to see your century in Pakistan': Fan's message for Virat Kohli goes viral during PSL 2022 Reacting to Rohit's backing of his predecessor Kohli, former India player Nikhil Chopra feels Hitman's statement sends a strong message to the Indian dressing room. “I had said earlier as well that Rohit is the right candidate for captaincy because he has earned the respect of the dressing room. Everyone knows that the captain will back them even if they are not able to perform a specific role given to them. Players know the captain will never humiliate them publicly and keep backing them completely," Chopra said on the Khelneeti podcast. Reflecting on Kohli's run of form, Chopra pointed out that the empty stands are also playing a role in the former captain's century drought. “I am not saying that it is happening with Kohli. But when a player receives appreciation for hitting fours and sixes, he feeds off that energy. In empty stadiums, your concentration might be affected as there is no reaction to big hits. We know a lot of players who take strength from crowd’s energy. Maybe, it might be affecting him a little bit," the ex-cricketer further pointed out. × ALSO READ | I just ran towards Virat Kohli and hugged him: RCB pacer Md Siraj recalls 'best surprise of life' Kohli smashed a fifty (52) in the second and penultimate T20I versus the Windies, on Friday evening (February 18), at the eden Gardens, however, once again failed to convert it into a big score. Rohit-led India lead the three T20Is 1-0 after winning the series opener, at the same venue, by six wickets.

'Players know captain will never...': Ex-India player reacts to Rohit Sharma's stance on Virat Kohli's form

Team India defeated West Indies by 8 runs in a thrilling second and penultimate T20I at Eden Gardens, Kolkata on Friday (February 18). Rohit Sharma-led Indian team were asked to bat first as they rode on Virat Kohli's 52, Rishabh Pant's 52* and Venkatesh Iyer's 33 to post 186-5 in 20 overs.&nbsp;

In reply, WI were 59-2 before a century-stand between half-centurions Rovman Powell and Nicholas Pooran steadied the ship but impressive death-over bowling from Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Harshal Patel ensured a series win for India. After the series victory, former Indian skipper Virat Kohli and wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant have reportedly left for their respective homes after being given a bio-bubble break by the BCCI.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/players-know-captain-will-never-ex-india-player-reacts-to-rohit-sharmas-stance-on-virat-kohlis-form-454406">'Players know captain will never...': Ex-India player reacts to Rohit Sharma's stance on Virat Kohli's form</a>

According to a report filed by news agency PTI, BCCI have given a ten-day break to Kohli, who will now miss the forthcoming Sri Lanka T20Is and return for the two Tests versus the Islanders. On the other hand, Pant -- who was named Rohit's deputy for the ongoing WI T20Is -- will also miss the white-ball series versus the Sri Lankans.

"Yes, Kohli has left home on Saturday morning as India have already won the series. As it has been decided by BCCI, it will be a policy to give all the regular all format players periodic breaks from the bubble to ensure that their workload management and mental health is taken care of," a senior BCCI official was quoted as saying.&nbsp;

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Both Kohli and Pant were part of the three ODIs and the first two T20Is versus the Men in Maroon. While Kohli regained some form, after a string of low scores in the 50-over series, Pant also contributed well with the bat before being given a break now. Despite the duo's departure, Rohit &amp; Co. have enough options to go for the kill and claim the WI T20Is by a 3-0 margin.

Team India defeated West Indies by 8 runs in a thrilling second and penultimate T20I at Eden Gardens, Kolkata on Friday (February 18). Rohit Sharma-led Indian team were asked to bat first as they rode on Virat Kohli's 52, Rishabh Pant's 52* and Venkatesh Iyer's 33 to post 186-5 in 20 overs.

Team India defeated West Indies by 8 runs in a thrilling second and penultimate T20I at Eden Gardens, Kolkata on Friday (February 18). Rohit Sharma-led Indian team were asked to bat first as they rode on Virat Kohli's 52, Rishabh Pant's 52* and Venkatesh Iyer's 33 to post 186-5 in 20 overs. In reply, WI were 59-2 before a century-stand between half-centurions Rovman Powell and Nicholas Pooran steadied the ship but impressive death-over bowling from Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Harshal Patel ensured a series win for India. After the series victory, former Indian skipper Virat Kohli and wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant have reportedly left for their respective homes after being given a bio-bubble break by the BCCI. ALSO READ | 'Players know captain will never...': Ex-India player reacts to Rohit Sharma's stance on Virat Kohli's form According to a report filed by news agency PTI, BCCI have given a ten-day break to Kohli, who will now miss the forthcoming Sri Lanka T20Is and return for the two Tests versus the Islanders. On the other hand, Pant -- who was named Rohit's deputy for the ongoing WI T20Is -- will also miss the white-ball series versus the Sri Lankans. "Yes, Kohli has left home on Saturday morning as India have already won the series. As it has been decided by BCCI, it will be a policy to give all the regular all format players periodic breaks from the bubble to ensure that their workload management and mental health is taken care of," a senior BCCI official was quoted as saying. × ALSO READ | Kohli, Pant and Bhuvneshwar star as India beat West Indies by 8 runs in 2nd T20I, clinch series Both Kohli and Pant were part of the three ODIs and the first two T20Is versus the Men in Maroon. While Kohli regained some form, after a string of low scores in the 50-over series, Pant also contributed well with the bat before being given a break now. Despite the duo's departure, Rohit & Co. have enough options to go for the kill and claim the WI T20Is by a 3-0 margin.

Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant granted bio-bubble break ahead of series finale vs WI; duo to skip SL T20Is

Having defeated West Indies 3-0 in the ODI series, Team India will look to replicate the same when the two sides meet in the third and final T20I on Sunday.

India defeated West Indies in the second T20I on Friday on the back of Virat Kohli and Rishabh Pant's fifties.

However, Team India will be missing the services of Kohli and Pant as both have been given bio-bubble break by the BCCI.

While India will eye for a clean sweep, the hosts will also try different combinations in the absence of Kohli and Pant.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-named-test-captain-as-bcci-announces-squad-for-sri-lanka-series-pujara-rahane-dropped-454583">Rohit Sharma named Test captain as BCCI announces squad for Sri Lanka series; Pujara, Rahane dropped</a>

On the other hand, West Indies will look to end the tour of India on a high by winning the third and final T20I on Sunday.

The visitors have not won a single game and will definitely look to seal the dead rubber to open the account in the white-ball leg.

Coming back to Team India, after the win in the second ODI, Pant said young batter Venkatesh Iyer is a mature cricketer, who reads the situation very well.

Pant (52) and Venkatesh Iyer (33) had played crucial knocks to help India post 186/5 in the 20 overs in the second T20I.

"When you come down the order, you know the situation. He (Iyer) is someone who reads the situation really well. We talked about keeping it simple and not trying too many things. The plan was simple, see the ball, hit the ball," said Pant in the post-match press conference.

"He (Iyer) is a mature cricketer. He used to play down the order for MP. Yes, in the IPL he is opening, but we can't be thinking too much about that. In the Indian team, we are just trying to find different positions for different people," he added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="2nd T20I: Rohit Sharma loses his cool as pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar drops a catch - WATCH">2nd T20I: Rohit Sharma loses his cool as pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar drops a catch - WATCH</a>

Squads: India: Rohit Sharma (Captain), Ishan Kishan, Shreyas Iyer, Surya Kumar Yadav, Venkatesh Iyer, Deepak Chahar, Shardul Thakur, Ravi Bishnoi, Yuzvendra Chahal, Washington Sundar, Mohd. Siraj, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Avesh Khan, Harshal Patel, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Deepak Hooda.

West Indies: Kieron Pollard (c), Nicholas Pooran, Fabien Allen, Darren Bravo, Roseton Chase, Sheldon Cottrell, Dominic Drakes, Jason Holder, Shai Hope, Akeal Hosein, Brandon King, Kyle Mayers, Rovman Powell, Romario Shephard, Odean Smith, Hayden Walsh Jr.

Having defeated West Indies 3-0 in the ODI series, Team India will look to replicate the same when the two sides meet in the third and final T20I on Sunday. India defeated West Indies in the second T20I on Friday on the back of Virat Kohli and Rishabh Pant's fifties.

Having defeated West Indies 3-0 in the ODI series, Team India will look to replicate the same when the two sides meet in the third and final T20I on Sunday. India defeated West Indies in the second T20I on Friday on the back of Virat Kohli and Rishabh Pant's fifties. However, Team India will be missing the services of Kohli and Pant as both have been given bio-bubble break by the BCCI. While India will eye for a clean sweep, the hosts will also try different combinations in the absence of Kohli and Pant. ALSO READ: Rohit Sharma named Test captain as BCCI announces squad for Sri Lanka series; Pujara, Rahane dropped On the other hand, West Indies will look to end the tour of India on a high by winning the third and final T20I on Sunday. The visitors have not won a single game and will definitely look to seal the dead rubber to open the account in the white-ball leg. Coming back to Team India, after the win in the second ODI, Pant said young batter Venkatesh Iyer is a mature cricketer, who reads the situation very well. Pant (52) and Venkatesh Iyer (33) had played crucial knocks to help India post 186/5 in the 20 overs in the second T20I. "When you come down the order, you know the situation. He (Iyer) is someone who reads the situation really well. We talked about keeping it simple and not trying too many things. The plan was simple, see the ball, hit the ball," said Pant in the post-match press conference. "He (Iyer) is a mature cricketer. He used to play down the order for MP. Yes, in the IPL he is opening, but we can't be thinking too much about that. In the Indian team, we are just trying to find different positions for different people," he added. ALSO READ: 2nd T20I: Rohit Sharma loses his cool as pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar drops a catch - WATCH Squads: India: Rohit Sharma (Captain), Ishan Kishan, Shreyas Iyer, Surya Kumar Yadav, Venkatesh Iyer, Deepak Chahar, Shardul Thakur, Ravi Bishnoi, Yuzvendra Chahal, Washington Sundar, Mohd. Siraj, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Avesh Khan, Harshal Patel, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Deepak Hooda. West Indies: Kieron Pollard (c), Nicholas Pooran, Fabien Allen, Darren Bravo, Roseton Chase, Sheldon Cottrell, Dominic Drakes, Jason Holder, Shai Hope, Akeal Hosein, Brandon King, Kyle Mayers, Rovman Powell, Romario Shephard, Odean Smith, Hayden Walsh Jr.

3rd T20I: West Indies look to end tour on winning note as India eyes series whitewash

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is unlikely to take any action against India U-19 World Cup-winning all-rounder Rajvardhan Hangargekar despite allegations of age-fudging levelled against him. Hangargekar was part of the Yash Dhull-led India U1-9 side which defeated England to win the ICC U-19 World Cup 2022 trophy earlier this year.

Om Prakash Bakoria, the Commissioner of Sports and Youth Services of Maharashtra, had accused Hangargekar of age fraud in a letter written to the BCCI. Bakoria alleged that Hangargekar's actual age is 21 and that his birth date was changed from January 10, 2001, to November 10 2002 during his readmission in grade 8th. Bakoria also reportedly attached proof of the age fudging by Hangargekar along with his letter to BCCI.

However, the Indian cricket board is unlikely to take any action against the young all-rounder, as per a report in Sportstar. As per the report, BCCI will not take action against the player as he had passed the age-verification protocol which is based on a&nbsp;bone test. The bone test was conducted on Hangargekar at the time of his inclusion in the age-group inter-state system.

A BCCI insider confirmed to Sportstar that Hangargekar's age was found to be par with his documents as per the TW3 bone test, which uses X-Rays of the left hand and wrist to examine the skeletal maturity of a person to determine their bone age. The test is used by the BCCI for initiating cricketers into age-group competitions.

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In his letter, Bakoria alleged that the conduct of Hangargekar is against sports integrity and ethics. He claimed that the all-rounder's birth date was changed by the headmaster of his school at the time of his admission in grade 8th. Hangargekar was a student of the Terna Public School.

“The conduct of the Mr Rajvardhan Hangargekar is against the sports integrity and ethics. It deprives fair play and results into damages to the reputation of the nation. Therefore, you are requested to take strict action in accordance with the law,” Bakoria wrote in his letter to BCCI.

“If the Head Master requires any corrections in birth date, it is necessary to take prior permission of Education officer of concerned district. However, no such permission has been taken for making changes in the birth date of Mr Rajvardhan Hangargekar," Bakoria further alleged.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rajvardhan-hangargekars-ipl-dream-hangs-in-balance-as-csk-youngster-accused-of-age-fraud-454349">Rajvardhan Hangargekar's IPL dream hangs in balance as CSK youngster accused of age fraud</a>

After a fruitful campaign with the Indian team at the U-19 World Cup 2022, Hangargekar was picked up by Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the recently-concluded IPL 2022 mega auction. CSK beat Mumbai Indians to signs the youngster for a sum of Rs 1.50 crore (INR 15 million).

There were dark clouds hovering over Hangargekar's future in the IPL amid allegations of age fraud. However, the CSK youngster is likely to make his debut in the upcoming season if BCCI decided to not take any action against him. 
&nbsp;

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is unlikely to take any action against India U-19 World Cup-winning all-rounder Rajvardhan Hangargekar despite allegations of age-fudging levelled against him.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is unlikely to take any action against India U-19 World Cup-winning all-rounder Rajvardhan Hangargekar despite allegations of age-fudging levelled against him. Hangargekar was part of the Yash Dhull-led India U1-9 side which defeated England to win the ICC U-19 World Cup 2022 trophy earlier this year. Om Prakash Bakoria, the Commissioner of Sports and Youth Services of Maharashtra, had accused Hangargekar of age fraud in a letter written to the BCCI. Bakoria alleged that Hangargekar's actual age is 21 and that his birth date was changed from January 10, 2001, to November 10 2002 during his readmission in grade 8th. Bakoria also reportedly attached proof of the age fudging by Hangargekar along with his letter to BCCI. However, the Indian cricket board is unlikely to take any action against the young all-rounder, as per a report in Sportstar. As per the report, BCCI will not take action against the player as he had passed the age-verification protocol which is based on a bone test. The bone test was conducted on Hangargekar at the time of his inclusion in the age-group inter-state system. A BCCI insider confirmed to Sportstar that Hangargekar's age was found to be par with his documents as per the TW3 bone test, which uses X-Rays of the left hand and wrist to examine the skeletal maturity of a person to determine their bone age. The test is used by the BCCI for initiating cricketers into age-group competitions. Also Read: Tymal Mills to K Gowtham: Players who took biggest pay cuts at IPL 2022 auction In his letter, Bakoria alleged that the conduct of Hangargekar is against sports integrity and ethics. He claimed that the all-rounder's birth date was changed by the headmaster of his school at the time of his admission in grade 8th. Hangargekar was a student of the Terna Public School. “The conduct of the Mr Rajvardhan Hangargekar is against the sports integrity and ethics. It deprives fair play and results into damages to the reputation of the nation. Therefore, you are requested to take strict action in accordance with the law,” Bakoria wrote in his letter to BCCI. “If the Head Master requires any corrections in birth date, it is necessary to take prior permission of Education officer of concerned district. However, no such permission has been taken for making changes in the birth date of Mr Rajvardhan Hangargekar," Bakoria further alleged. Also Read: Rajvardhan Hangargekar's IPL dream hangs in balance as CSK youngster accused of age fraud After a fruitful campaign with the Indian team at the U-19 World Cup 2022, Hangargekar was picked up by Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the recently-concluded IPL 2022 mega auction. CSK beat Mumbai Indians to signs the youngster for a sum of Rs 1.50 crore (INR 15 million). There were dark clouds hovering over Hangargekar's future in the IPL amid allegations of age fraud. However, the CSK youngster is likely to make his debut in the upcoming season if BCCI decided to not take any action against him.

BCCI unlikely to take action against CSK's Rajvardhan Hangargekar despite age fraud allegations - Report

After the end of the IPL 2022 mega auction, here's listing five overseas stars who returned with big-fat cheques during the two-day auction proceedings

IPL 2022: Five underrated overseas players who earned whopping deals at mega auction

India and West Indies will lock horns with each other in the second and penultimate T20I on Friday evening (February 18). Rohit Sharma-led India will aim for an unassailable lead in the three-match series after claiming the first game by six wickets.

Opting to bowl first, Rohit-led India restricted the Kieron Pollard-led West Indies line-up for a moderate 157/7. Debutant leg spinner Ravi Bishnoi and Harshal Patel claimed two wickets each to dent WI's innings and curtail the run-flow. In reply, Rohit's 19-ball 40 and unbeaten innings from Suryakumar Yadav and Venkatesh Iyer took India home with seven balls to spare.

Thus, the West Indies team remain winless in the tour and will press hard for a comeback to keep the series alive. On the other hand, it will be interesting to see if India go unchanged into the encounter or will they try bring in some new faces for Friday evening's clash.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-avesh-khan-get-a-look-in-for-deepak-chahar-predicting-indias-xi-for-2nd-t20i-vs-west-indies-454218">Will Avesh Khan get a look-in for Deepak Chahar? Predicting India's XI for 2nd T20I vs West Indies</a>

Here is everything you need to know about the match - date, IST, streaming details, etc.&nbsp;

When is India vs West Indies&nbsp;2nd T20I&nbsp;match taking place?

India vs West Indies&nbsp;2nd T20I is scheduled to take place on February 18, 2022.&nbsp;

Where is India vs West Indies&nbsp;2nd T20I&nbsp; taking place?

India vs West Indies&nbsp;2nd T20I&nbsp;will take place at the Eden Gardens,&nbsp;in Kolkata.

At what time India vs West Indies&nbsp;2nd T20I&nbsp;taking place?

India vs West Indies&nbsp;2nd T20I&nbsp;will kick off at 7:00pm (IST).

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-is-your-property-heartwarming-tendulkar-reveals-why-he-returned-virat-kohlis-retirement-gift-454035">This is your property: Heartwarming! Tendulkar reveals why he returned Virat Kohli's retirement gift</a>

How to watch India vs West Indies&nbsp;2nd T20I&nbsp;live on TV?

India vs West Indies&nbsp;2nd T20I&nbsp;will be aired live on Star Sports channels - Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 HD, Star Sports 1 Hindi, Star Sports 1 Hindi HD, Star Sports 1 Tamil, Star Sports 1 Telugu, and Star Sports 1 Kannada.&nbsp;

How to watch India vs West Indies&nbsp;2nd T20I&nbsp;live streaming?

The India vs West Indies&nbsp;2nd T20I will be available to watch online/streaming on the Disney+ Hotstar App and the website.&nbsp;

India and West Indies will lock horns with each other in the second and penultimate T20I on Friday evening (February 18). Rohit Sharma-led India will aim for an unassailable lead in the three-match series after claiming the first game by six wickets.

India and West Indies will lock horns with each other in the second and penultimate T20I on Friday evening (February 18). Rohit Sharma-led India will aim for an unassailable lead in the three-match series after claiming the first game by six wickets. Opting to bowl first, Rohit-led India restricted the Kieron Pollard-led West Indies line-up for a moderate 157/7. Debutant leg spinner Ravi Bishnoi and Harshal Patel claimed two wickets each to dent WI's innings and curtail the run-flow. In reply, Rohit's 19-ball 40 and unbeaten innings from Suryakumar Yadav and Venkatesh Iyer took India home with seven balls to spare. Thus, the West Indies team remain winless in the tour and will press hard for a comeback to keep the series alive. On the other hand, it will be interesting to see if India go unchanged into the encounter or will they try bring in some new faces for Friday evening's clash. ALSO READ | Will Avesh Khan get a look-in for Deepak Chahar? Predicting India's XI for 2nd T20I vs West Indies Here is everything you need to know about the match - date, IST, streaming details, etc. When is India vs West Indies 2nd T20I match taking place? India vs West Indies 2nd T20I is scheduled to take place on February 18, 2022. Where is India vs West Indies 2nd T20I taking place? India vs West Indies 2nd T20I will take place at the Eden Gardens, in Kolkata. At what time India vs West Indies 2nd T20I taking place? India vs West Indies 2nd T20I will kick off at 7:00pm (IST). ALSO READ | This is your property: Heartwarming! Tendulkar reveals why he returned Virat Kohli's retirement gift How to watch India vs West Indies 2nd T20I live on TV? India vs West Indies 2nd T20I will be aired live on Star Sports channels - Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 HD, Star Sports 1 Hindi, Star Sports 1 Hindi HD, Star Sports 1 Tamil, Star Sports 1 Telugu, and Star Sports 1 Kannada. How to watch India vs West Indies 2nd T20I live streaming? The India vs West Indies 2nd T20I will be available to watch online/streaming on the Disney+ Hotstar App and the website.

INDvsWI: When and where to watch India vs West Indies 2nd T20I - IST time and streaming details

Former Indian wicketkeeper-batter opines on Ranji Trophy's resumption, Rishabh Pant's captaincy and keeping skills, Virat Kohli's indifferent form and Mithali Raj & Co.'s chances in upcoming Women's ODI World Cup.

EXCLUSIVE | Former player opines on Rishabh Pant, Virat Kohli's form, names India women's X-factor for ODI World Cup

Former Sri Lanka head coach Mickey Arthur has urged the England Cricket Board (ECB) to not send its players to the Indian Premier League (IPL) in order to improve their performances in Tests. England recently suffered a 4-0 drubbing at the hands of Australia in the Ashes 2021-22 as Joe Root &amp; Co. once again failed to reclaim the prestigious Urn.

England's performances in Tests have come under the scanner after Root &amp; Co.'s poor show against Australia in the Ashes. The 4-0 defeat also led to the departure of England head coach Chris Silverwood and batting coach Graham Thorpe. Captain Root was also slammed by many with his captaincy credentials being questioned by former cricketers.

Arthur, who is currently serving as the head coach of the English county side Derbyshire, said county cricket was not to be blamed for England's poor show in Test cricket. He suggested the board stop players from heading to the IPL, blaming the league for England's downfall in Tests.

"England haven't scored enough runs. It's as simple as that. If you want to lay the blame, you can lay it right there. County cricket isn't to blame," Arthur told The Times.

"For so long county cricket has been a really good producer of international players. I don't think there's a problem with the system ... If you want the strength early season, unfortunately, you are going to have to stop the players going to the IPL.

"They are playing there in the early part of the season just before the first tests. You need your best players playing county cricket to prepare for that," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/give-him-to-world-bank-pakistan-journo-trolled-for-claiming-afridi-would-have-earned-rs-200cr-in-ipl-453781">'Give him to World Bank': Pakistan journo trolled for claiming Afridi would have earned Rs 200cr in IPL</a>

England captain Joe Root and all-rounder Ben Stokes had refrained from enlisting their names in the IPL 2022 mega auction post the conclusion of Ashes 2021-22 as they wanted to focus on Test cricket and give the lucrative T20 league a miss for that.

England have been a force to reckon with in white-ball cricket since their exit from the 2015 ODI World Cup as they went on to clinch the 2019 ODI World Cup title before reaching the semi-finals of the T20 World Cup lat year. However, they have not enjoyed similar success in Test cricket. 
&nbsp;

Former Sri Lanka head coach Mickey Arthur has urged the England Cricket Board (ECB) to not send its players to the Indian Premier League (IPL) in order to improve their performances in Tests.

Former Sri Lanka head coach Mickey Arthur has urged the England Cricket Board (ECB) to not send its players to the Indian Premier League (IPL) in order to improve their performances in Tests. England recently suffered a 4-0 drubbing at the hands of Australia in the Ashes 2021-22 as Joe Root & Co. once again failed to reclaim the prestigious Urn. England's performances in Tests have come under the scanner after Root & Co.'s poor show against Australia in the Ashes. The 4-0 defeat also led to the departure of England head coach Chris Silverwood and batting coach Graham Thorpe. Captain Root was also slammed by many with his captaincy credentials being questioned by former cricketers. Arthur, who is currently serving as the head coach of the English county side Derbyshire, said county cricket was not to be blamed for England's poor show in Test cricket. He suggested the board stop players from heading to the IPL, blaming the league for England's downfall in Tests. "England haven't scored enough runs. It's as simple as that. If you want to lay the blame, you can lay it right there. County cricket isn't to blame," Arthur told The Times. "For so long county cricket has been a really good producer of international players. I don't think there's a problem with the system ... If you want the strength early season, unfortunately, you are going to have to stop the players going to the IPL. "They are playing there in the early part of the season just before the first tests. You need your best players playing county cricket to prepare for that," he added. Also Read: 'Give him to World Bank': Pakistan journo trolled for claiming Afridi would have earned Rs 200cr in IPL England captain Joe Root and all-rounder Ben Stokes had refrained from enlisting their names in the IPL 2022 mega auction post the conclusion of Ashes 2021-22 as they wanted to focus on Test cricket and give the lucrative T20 league a miss for that. England have been a force to reckon with in white-ball cricket since their exit from the 2015 ODI World Cup as they went on to clinch the 2019 ODI World Cup title before reaching the semi-finals of the T20 World Cup lat year. However, they have not enjoyed similar success in Test cricket.

England need to stop players from going to IPL in order to improve their Test side: Mickey Arthur

Indian captain Rohit Sharma responded to Virat Kohli's critics in a firm fashion during the press conference ahead of the upcoming T20I series between India and West Indies. The two teams will lock horns in the first T20I of the three-match rubber on Wednesday (February 16). After completing a 3-0 whitewash in the ODIs, India will be looking to get off to a winning start in the T20Is.

Ahead of the first T20I between India and West Indies, captain Rohit Sharma addressed questions from reporters surrounding Kohli's ongoing lean patch for the Indian team across formats. Kohli had a below-par campaign in the ODI series against West Indies as he managed to score only 26 runs in three matches. The former India captain, who has not scored an international century since November 2019, has seen pressure mounting on him to bounce back to form.

When asked about Kohli's poor form, Rohit snapped back at the reporters and took a dig at the media urging the journalists to 'keep quiet for a while'. The Hitman said Kohli is in a great mental space and said he knows how to handle pressure having played international cricket for over a decade now.

"If you guys can keep quiet for a while, I think he'll be alright,"&nbsp;Rohit told the reporters at the presser.

"He is in a great mental space. He has been a part of this team for more than a decade. Such a player knows how to handle the environment and pressure. If you guys can keep it quiet for a bit, everything will fall in place," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-wi-t20is-bcci-name-rishabh-pant-as-rohit-sharmas-deputy-in-kl-rahuls-absence-453395">India vs WI, T20Is: BCCI name Rishabh Pant as Rohit Sharma's deputy in KL Rahul's absence</a>

Ahead of the start of the T20I series against West Indies, BCCI on Tuesday confirmed the appointment of wicket-keeper batter Rishabh Pant as the vice-captain of the Indian team in the absence of KL Rahul. Rahul will miss the series due to an injury and in his absence, Pant will act as Rohit's deputy in the three-match series.

Earlier, Ruturaj Gaikwad and Deepak Hood had been included in the Indian T20I squad as replacements for injured KL Rahul and Axar Patel for the upcoming series against West Indies.

Indian captain Rohit Sharma responded to Virat Kohli's critics in a firm fashion during the press conference ahead of the upcoming T20I series between India and West Indies.

Indian captain Rohit Sharma responded to Virat Kohli's critics in a firm fashion during the press conference ahead of the upcoming T20I series between India and West Indies. The two teams will lock horns in the first T20I of the three-match rubber on Wednesday (February 16). After completing a 3-0 whitewash in the ODIs, India will be looking to get off to a winning start in the T20Is. Ahead of the first T20I between India and West Indies, captain Rohit Sharma addressed questions from reporters surrounding Kohli's ongoing lean patch for the Indian team across formats. Kohli had a below-par campaign in the ODI series against West Indies as he managed to score only 26 runs in three matches. The former India captain, who has not scored an international century since November 2019, has seen pressure mounting on him to bounce back to form. When asked about Kohli's poor form, Rohit snapped back at the reporters and took a dig at the media urging the journalists to 'keep quiet for a while'. The Hitman said Kohli is in a great mental space and said he knows how to handle pressure having played international cricket for over a decade now. "If you guys can keep quiet for a while, I think he'll be alright," Rohit told the reporters at the presser. "He is in a great mental space. He has been a part of this team for more than a decade. Such a player knows how to handle the environment and pressure. If you guys can keep it quiet for a bit, everything will fall in place," he added. Also Read: India vs WI, T20Is: BCCI name Rishabh Pant as Rohit Sharma's deputy in KL Rahul's absence Ahead of the start of the T20I series against West Indies, BCCI on Tuesday confirmed the appointment of wicket-keeper batter Rishabh Pant as the vice-captain of the Indian team in the absence of KL Rahul. Rahul will miss the series due to an injury and in his absence, Pant will act as Rohit's deputy in the three-match series. Earlier, Ruturaj Gaikwad and Deepak Hood had been included in the Indian T20I squad as replacements for injured KL Rahul and Axar Patel for the upcoming series against West Indies.

'If you guys can keep quiet..': Rohit Sharma tells reporters when asked about Virat Kohli's lean patch

The winners of the 2022 Women's 50-over World Cup will receive prize money of $1.32 million, twice the amount awarded in the last edition, the governing International Cricket Council (ICC) announced on Tuesday.

The 2022 event will be held from March 4 to April 3 across six venues in New Zealand, played in a round-robin format with the top four teams advancing to the semi-finals.

England are the defending champions after they beat India by nine runs in the final at Lord's in 2017.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-did-look-a-little-scared-gavaskar-explains-why-suresh-raina-went-unsold-at-ipl-2022-mega-auction-453400">'He did look a little scared' - Gavaskar explains why Suresh Raina went unsold at IPL 2022 mega auction</a>

The ICC said that the overall prize money pot has been increased by 75%, with the teams taking home a share of $3.5 million, which is $1.5 million more than the previous edition.

The runners-up will be awarded a sum of $600,000, some $270,000 more than the last edition, the statement added.

The winners of the 2022 Women's 50-over World Cup will receive prize money of $1.32 million, twice the amount awarded in the last edition, the governing International Cricket Council (ICC) announced on Tuesday.

The winners of the 2022 Women's 50-over World Cup will receive prize money of $1.32 million, twice the amount awarded in the last edition, the governing International Cricket Council (ICC) announced on Tuesday. The 2022 event will be held from March 4 to April 3 across six venues in New Zealand, played in a round-robin format with the top four teams advancing to the semi-finals. England are the defending champions after they beat India by nine runs in the final at Lord's in 2017. ALSO READ: 'He did look a little scared' - Gavaskar explains why Suresh Raina went unsold at IPL 2022 mega auction The ICC said that the overall prize money pot has been increased by 75%, with the teams taking home a share of $3.5 million, which is $1.5 million more than the previous edition. The runners-up will be awarded a sum of $600,000, some $270,000 more than the last edition, the statement added.

ICC doubles prize money for Women's World Cup 2022, winner to receive USD 1.32 million

After a forgetful tour of South Africa, Virat Kohli's struggles with the willow have continued in the ongoing ODI series between India and West Indies at home. Questions have been raised over Kohli's form with many suggesting the former India captain should be asked to rest for a few games in order to find his mojo back.

Kohli was dismissed for a 4-ball 8 in the first ODI before scoring 18 off 30 balls in the second game. Though India managed to win both the games comfortably, Kohli didn't enjoy great outings on the personal front. While he has failed to bring an end to his century drought since 2019, Kohli's form has been under the scanner in the ongoing series.

Many have suggested Kohli should be rested for a few matches as he doesn't look in the right space of mind ever since being sacked as the ODI captain of the side. However, former India cricketer Aakash Chopra believes the former India skipper should not be asked to rest unless he himself demands a break.

"There has been a lot of talks that Kohli should be asked to rest, that you are not having a great time, take a break now also and if you like, don't play the T20s as well. I will never keep that proposal in front of Virat Kohli. It is fine if he himself says that he wants to take a break," Chopra said in a video on his YouTube channel.

The cricketer-turned commentator further added that every batter goes through a lean patch in his career and a legend like Kohli doesn't have to prove his credentials again&nbsp;after enduring slight bad form.&nbsp;

"You are talking about Virat Kohli. It does not happen that a legend does not remain a legend because of slight bad form. When you go through bad form, we all have gone through that more compared to Kohli, you want to play regularly at times. You don't want a break," Chopra added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/every-batter-needs-a-bit-of-luck-sunil-gavaskar-decodes-virat-kohlis-struggles-amid-lean-patch-for-india-452331">'Every batter needs a bit of luck': Sunil Gavaskar decodes&nbsp;Kohli's struggles amid lean patch for India</a>

Kohli's poor run with the bat continued in the third and final ODI between India and West Indies at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Friday as he was once again dismissed for a duck. Kohli was sent back without managing to open his account&nbsp;after edging one to Shai Hope off the bowling of&nbsp;Alzarri Joseph in the third ODI.&nbsp;

After a forgetful tour of South Africa, Virat Kohli's struggles with the willow have continued in the ongoing ODI series between India and West Indies at home. Questions have been raised over Kohli's form with many suggesting the former India captain should be asked to rest for a few games in order to find his mojo back.

After a forgetful tour of South Africa, Virat Kohli's struggles with the willow have continued in the ongoing ODI series between India and West Indies at home. Questions have been raised over Kohli's form with many suggesting the former India captain should be asked to rest for a few games in order to find his mojo back. Kohli was dismissed for a 4-ball 8 in the first ODI before scoring 18 off 30 balls in the second game. Though India managed to win both the games comfortably, Kohli didn't enjoy great outings on the personal front. While he has failed to bring an end to his century drought since 2019, Kohli's form has been under the scanner in the ongoing series. Many have suggested Kohli should be rested for a few matches as he doesn't look in the right space of mind ever since being sacked as the ODI captain of the side. However, former India cricketer Aakash Chopra believes the former India skipper should not be asked to rest unless he himself demands a break. "There has been a lot of talks that Kohli should be asked to rest, that you are not having a great time, take a break now also and if you like, don't play the T20s as well. I will never keep that proposal in front of Virat Kohli. It is fine if he himself says that he wants to take a break," Chopra said in a video on his YouTube channel. The cricketer-turned commentator further added that every batter goes through a lean patch in his career and a legend like Kohli doesn't have to prove his credentials again after enduring slight bad form. "You are talking about Virat Kohli. It does not happen that a legend does not remain a legend because of slight bad form. When you go through bad form, we all have gone through that more compared to Kohli, you want to play regularly at times. You don't want a break," Chopra added. Also Read: 'Every batter needs a bit of luck': Sunil Gavaskar decodes Kohli's struggles amid lean patch for India Kohli's poor run with the bat continued in the third and final ODI between India and West Indies at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Friday as he was once again dismissed for a duck. Kohli was sent back without managing to open his account after edging one to Shai Hope off the bowling of Alzarri Joseph in the third ODI.

Should Virat Kohli be asked to rest? Aakash Chopra gives his take on former India skipper's poor form

IPL 2022 auction: Five stars who could attract massive fees

Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) on Thursday appointed James Siddons as the new batting coach. The decision came a day after Ashwell Prince tendered his resignation from the job, citing "family reasons".

"Jamie Siddons will be the national team's batting coach. We have heard from senior cricketers and board directors that he is a good coach, which is why we brought him here," said BCB president Nazmul Hassan, as reported by ESPNcricinfo.

"Maybe after Siddons'&nbsp;arrival, Prince thought we were thinking differently. But he could have stayed so that we could get him to work in a different capacity," he added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-one-expected-virat-kohli-to-resign-as-indias-test-captain-reveals-all-rounder-shardul-thakur-450380">No one expected Virat Kohli to resign as India's Test captain, reveals all-rounder Shardul Thakur</a>

Siddons, who worked as Bangladesh's head coach from 2007 to 2011 delivering several breakthroughs, was first contacted in May last year when Bangladesh was trying to replace Neil McKenzie with a permanent batting coach.

The BCB shortlisted Prince and Siddons, with the former being appointed in July ahead of the Zimbabwe series.BCB is also looking for specialist fast-bowling and fielding coaches but it is likely that they won't be having anyone from overseas in place ahead of the Afghanistan series that begins on February 23.

"We are looking for a pace-bowling coach who has experience working with international teams. Till then, Champaka (Ramanayake) can work with them," Hassan said.

Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) on Thursday appointed James Siddons as the new batting coach. The decision came a day after Ashwell Prince tendered his resignation from the job, citing "family reasons".

Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) on Thursday appointed James Siddons as the new batting coach. The decision came a day after Ashwell Prince tendered his resignation from the job, citing "family reasons". "Jamie Siddons will be the national team's batting coach. We have heard from senior cricketers and board directors that he is a good coach, which is why we brought him here," said BCB president Nazmul Hassan, as reported by ESPNcricinfo. "Maybe after Siddons' arrival, Prince thought we were thinking differently. But he could have stayed so that we could get him to work in a different capacity," he added. ALSO READ: No one expected Virat Kohli to resign as India's Test captain, reveals all-rounder Shardul Thakur Siddons, who worked as Bangladesh's head coach from 2007 to 2011 delivering several breakthroughs, was first contacted in May last year when Bangladesh was trying to replace Neil McKenzie with a permanent batting coach. The BCB shortlisted Prince and Siddons, with the former being appointed in July ahead of the Zimbabwe series.BCB is also looking for specialist fast-bowling and fielding coaches but it is likely that they won't be having anyone from overseas in place ahead of the Afghanistan series that begins on February 23. "We are looking for a pace-bowling coach who has experience working with international teams. Till then, Champaka (Ramanayake) can work with them," Hassan said.

Bangladesh rope in Jamie Siddons as new batting coach

After having gained an unassailable 2-0 lead in the ongoing three-match series, Rohit Sharma-led Team India would look to win the final ODI to register a series sweep. India and West Indies will lock horns in the third and final ODI at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Friday.&nbsp;

Heading into the final game, all eyes would be on Virat Kohli's form. So far in the series, Virat has been below-par as he recorded scores of 8 and 18 and the wait for century number 71 is growing day by day. The batter needs to stay true to his instincts as in the ongoing series, the batter has looked to be in a rush.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-west-indies-2nd-odi-prasidh-krishna-takes-four-as-india-claim-series-win-451784">India vs West Indies, 2nd ODI: Prasidh Krishna takes four as India claim series win</a>

This has never been the case with Virat but probably lack of a big score is now getting to the former skipper as well.&nbsp;

A good talk with head coach Rahul Dravid and captain Rohit might just be the need of the hour for Virat as the Men in Blue need their star batter at his best.&nbsp;

In the second ODI, India promoted Rishabh Pant as an opener, the move might not have worked, but it is a positive sign as the team finally showed an aggressive mindset.&nbsp;

KL Rahul and Suryakumar Yadav were impressed with the bat but the overall score remained below-par as Men in Blue posted just 237 on the board.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-a-permanent-thing-rohit-sharma-reacts-to-decision-to-let-rishabh-pant-open-innings-in-2nd-odi-vs-wi-451806">'Not a permanent thing': Rohit Sharma reacts to decision to let Rishabh Pant open innings in 2nd ODI vs WI</a>

The bowling side of things took care of itself and Prasidh Krishna bowled a probing spell and broke the back of Windies chase.&nbsp;

The hosts would expect the same to happen in the final ODI. West Indies'&nbsp;batting has been lacklustre so far in this series, and they have not been able to help out their bowlers.&nbsp;

Kieron Pollard missed the second game due to a niggle and it is not known whether he would return for the final ODI on Friday.&nbsp;

Squads: India: Rohit Sharma (c), Shikhar Dhawan, Virat Kohli, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Mayank Agarwal, Suryakumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer, Deepak Hooda, Washington Sundar, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, Deepak Chahar, Shardul Thakur, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Ravi Bishnoi, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Avesh Khan, Shahrukh Khan.

West Indies: Kieron Pollard (c), Kemar Roach, Nkrumah Bonner, Brandon King, Fabien Allen, Darren Bravo, Shamarh Brooks, Jason Holder, Shai Hope, Akeal Hosein, Alzarri Joseph, Nicholas Pooran, Romario Shephard, Odean Smith, Hayden Walsh Jr.

After having gained an unassailable 2-0 lead in the ongoing three-match series, Rohit Sharma-led Team India would look to win the final ODI to register a series sweep.

After having gained an unassailable 2-0 lead in the ongoing three-match series, Rohit Sharma-led Team India would look to win the final ODI to register a series sweep. India and West Indies will lock horns in the third and final ODI at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Friday. Heading into the final game, all eyes would be on Virat Kohli's form. So far in the series, Virat has been below-par as he recorded scores of 8 and 18 and the wait for century number 71 is growing day by day. The batter needs to stay true to his instincts as in the ongoing series, the batter has looked to be in a rush. ALSO READ: India vs West Indies, 2nd ODI: Prasidh Krishna takes four as India claim series win This has never been the case with Virat but probably lack of a big score is now getting to the former skipper as well. A good talk with head coach Rahul Dravid and captain Rohit might just be the need of the hour for Virat as the Men in Blue need their star batter at his best. In the second ODI, India promoted Rishabh Pant as an opener, the move might not have worked, but it is a positive sign as the team finally showed an aggressive mindset. KL Rahul and Suryakumar Yadav were impressed with the bat but the overall score remained below-par as Men in Blue posted just 237 on the board. ALSO READ: 'Not a permanent thing': Rohit Sharma reacts to decision to let Rishabh Pant open innings in 2nd ODI vs WI The bowling side of things took care of itself and Prasidh Krishna bowled a probing spell and broke the back of Windies chase. The hosts would expect the same to happen in the final ODI. West Indies' batting has been lacklustre so far in this series, and they have not been able to help out their bowlers. Kieron Pollard missed the second game due to a niggle and it is not known whether he would return for the final ODI on Friday. Squads: India: Rohit Sharma (c), Shikhar Dhawan, Virat Kohli, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Mayank Agarwal, Suryakumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer, Deepak Hooda, Washington Sundar, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, Deepak Chahar, Shardul Thakur, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Ravi Bishnoi, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Avesh Khan, Shahrukh Khan. West Indies: Kieron Pollard (c), Kemar Roach, Nkrumah Bonner, Brandon King, Fabien Allen, Darren Bravo, Shamarh Brooks, Jason Holder, Shai Hope, Akeal Hosein, Alzarri Joseph, Nicholas Pooran, Romario Shephard, Odean Smith, Hayden Walsh Jr.

Rohit Sharma-led Team India look for ODI series sweep against West Indies, Virat Kohli's form in focus

Legendary South Africa batter AB de Villiers believes he might not have made it big in cricket if he was born in India and not his own country. One of the best batters of the modern-day era, De Villiers is often referred to as 'Mr. 360' for his ability to play shots across all parts of the ground.

He is one of the most loved overseas cricketers in India and enjoys a staggering fan base in the country. Apart from his heroics in international cricket for South Africa, De Villiers also entertained the fans with his dazzling performances for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) franchise in the Indian Premier League (IPL).&nbsp;

An RCB legend, De Villiers is one of the best batters to have graced the IPL and produced several match-winning performances for his team. He has received immense love from India and Indian fans. De Villiers recently opened on his love for India while speaking on the RCB podcast and said it would have been interesting to grow up in the country.

De Villiers, an accomplished cricketer and one of the greats of the game, also went on to claim that he might have found it difficult to make the cut in the Indian team due to the sheer amount of talent and the intense competition for spots in the Indian cricket team. De Villiers said only special players manage to play for a team like India.

"I have had the privilege of experiencing IPL Cricket, the Indian crowd, and the Indian way of doing things for the last 15 years. Obviously growing up in India would have been interesting. Maybe I would have never played for India, who knows. It is tough to make it to the Indian team; you have to be a special player," De Villiers said on the RCB podcast.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-have-thought-about-it-virat-kohli-reveals-he-has-been-approached-by-ipl-franchises-in-past-to-leave-rcb-451428">&nbsp;'I have thought about it': Kohli reveals he has been approached by IPL franchises in past to leave RCB</a>

De Villiers, who announced his retirement from all forms of cricket after the conclusion of IPL 2021 last year,&nbsp;played&nbsp;114 Tests, 228 ODIs and 78 T20Is in an illustrious international career, amassing 8765, 9517 and 1672 runs in the three formats respectively.&nbsp;He is the sixth-highest run-getter in IPL history with 5162 runs from 184 matches.

De Villiers also opened up on his journey with RCB in the podcast and said it has been a 'life-changing' experience for him. Despite him not being able to win a single IPL title at the franchise, De Villiers said he looks back to his stint with the team without any regrets.

“RCB to me is family. I mean it has been a life-changing 10-11 years to me. Like any other family, there are ups and downs. There are beautiful, there’re amazing rides, there's a bit of everything. There are good relationships and then there are those which go sour and that is all part of the fun. I look back with no regrets. I think back on my career at RCB as the most amazing years of my life," said De&nbsp;Villiers.

Legendary South Africa batter AB de Villiers believes he might not have made it big in cricket if he was born in India and not his own country. One of the best batters of the modern-day era, De Villiers is often referred to as 'Mr.

Legendary South Africa batter AB de Villiers believes he might not have made it big in cricket if he was born in India and not his own country. One of the best batters of the modern-day era, De Villiers is often referred to as 'Mr. 360' for his ability to play shots across all parts of the ground. He is one of the most loved overseas cricketers in India and enjoys a staggering fan base in the country. Apart from his heroics in international cricket for South Africa, De Villiers also entertained the fans with his dazzling performances for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) franchise in the Indian Premier League (IPL). An RCB legend, De Villiers is one of the best batters to have graced the IPL and produced several match-winning performances for his team. He has received immense love from India and Indian fans. De Villiers recently opened on his love for India while speaking on the RCB podcast and said it would have been interesting to grow up in the country. De Villiers, an accomplished cricketer and one of the greats of the game, also went on to claim that he might have found it difficult to make the cut in the Indian team due to the sheer amount of talent and the intense competition for spots in the Indian cricket team. De Villiers said only special players manage to play for a team like India. "I have had the privilege of experiencing IPL Cricket, the Indian crowd, and the Indian way of doing things for the last 15 years. Obviously growing up in India would have been interesting. Maybe I would have never played for India, who knows. It is tough to make it to the Indian team; you have to be a special player," De Villiers said on the RCB podcast. Also Read: 'I have thought about it': Kohli reveals he has been approached by IPL franchises in past to leave RCB De Villiers, who announced his retirement from all forms of cricket after the conclusion of IPL 2021 last year, played 114 Tests, 228 ODIs and 78 T20Is in an illustrious international career, amassing 8765, 9517 and 1672 runs in the three formats respectively. He is the sixth-highest run-getter in IPL history with 5162 runs from 184 matches. De Villiers also opened up on his journey with RCB in the podcast and said it has been a 'life-changing' experience for him. Despite him not being able to win a single IPL title at the franchise, De Villiers said he looks back to his stint with the team without any regrets. “RCB to me is family. I mean it has been a life-changing 10-11 years to me. Like any other family, there are ups and downs. There are beautiful, there’re amazing rides, there's a bit of everything. There are good relationships and then there are those which go sour and that is all part of the fun. I look back with no regrets. I think back on my career at RCB as the most amazing years of my life," said De Villiers.

You have to be special, maybe I would have never played for India if I was an Indian: AB de Villiers

Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj recently revealed what Virat Kohli had told him after his stellar show in India's Test series against Australia Down Under last year. India scripted history by defeating Australia 2-1 in the Border Gavaskar Trophy 2021-22 to win a second straight Test series Down Under. India also breached Australia's fortress Gabba, handing them a humiliating defeat in the final Test to clinch the trophy.

It was an incredible turnaround from the Indian team in the four-match series after losing the first Test in Adelaide. India were bowled out for their lowest Test score in Adelaide and suffered a huge defeat but managed to bounce back and take the series despite missing a number of star players, including skipper Virat Kohli, who had returned home for the birth of his daughter after the conclusion of the first Test.

Ajinkya Rahane led the side in Kohli's absence and inspired India to an incredible turnaround as they went on to win the second Test and draw the third one before clinching the series-decider in Gabba to win their second straight Test series on Australian soil. Siraj, who made his Test debut in the same series, impressed with his impactful bowling.

Siraj was roped in as a replacement for injured Mohammed Shami after the first Test and produced some brilliant performances Down Under. In the final Test, in the absence of the likes of Jasprit Bumrah, Shami and R Ashwin among others, Siraj led India's bowling attack and helped the visitors register one of their most memorable Test wins of all time.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ishan-kishan-to-make-way-for-kl-rahul-indias-predicted-playing-xi-for-2nd-odi-against-west-indies-451529">Ishan Kishan to make way for KL Rahul? India's predicted playing XI for 2nd ODI against West Indies</a>

Siraj finished with 13 wickets in three matches and was India's highest wicket-taker in the series. He recently revealed after the Australia Test series, Virat Kohli told him something that he would never forget in his career. Speaking on the RCB podcast, Siraj revealed how Kohli lauded him for his performances and told him no one will forget what he did for the Indian team in Australia.

"Virat Kohli told me something I'd never be able to forget. After returning from Australia, he said 'Miyan, well bowled, what you've done in Australia is unbelievable. Nobody will be able to forget what you've done there. Keep at it and keep your focus on fitness and keep putting in the hard work," Siraj said on the podcast.

Siraj has since gone on to become a regular for India across formats and has not looked back. His performances in the Indian Premier League (IPL) have also been superb and the fast bowler has been retained by his franchise RCB ahead of IPL 2022.

&nbsp;

Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj recently revealed what Virat Kohli had told him after his stellar show in India's Test series against Australia Down Under last year.

Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj recently revealed what Virat Kohli had told him after his stellar show in India's Test series against Australia Down Under last year. India scripted history by defeating Australia 2-1 in the Border Gavaskar Trophy 2021-22 to win a second straight Test series Down Under. India also breached Australia's fortress Gabba, handing them a humiliating defeat in the final Test to clinch the trophy. It was an incredible turnaround from the Indian team in the four-match series after losing the first Test in Adelaide. India were bowled out for their lowest Test score in Adelaide and suffered a huge defeat but managed to bounce back and take the series despite missing a number of star players, including skipper Virat Kohli, who had returned home for the birth of his daughter after the conclusion of the first Test. Ajinkya Rahane led the side in Kohli's absence and inspired India to an incredible turnaround as they went on to win the second Test and draw the third one before clinching the series-decider in Gabba to win their second straight Test series on Australian soil. Siraj, who made his Test debut in the same series, impressed with his impactful bowling. Siraj was roped in as a replacement for injured Mohammed Shami after the first Test and produced some brilliant performances Down Under. In the final Test, in the absence of the likes of Jasprit Bumrah, Shami and R Ashwin among others, Siraj led India's bowling attack and helped the visitors register one of their most memorable Test wins of all time. Also Read: Ishan Kishan to make way for KL Rahul? India's predicted playing XI for 2nd ODI against West Indies Siraj finished with 13 wickets in three matches and was India's highest wicket-taker in the series. He recently revealed after the Australia Test series, Virat Kohli told him something that he would never forget in his career. Speaking on the RCB podcast, Siraj revealed how Kohli lauded him for his performances and told him no one will forget what he did for the Indian team in Australia. "Virat Kohli told me something I'd never be able to forget. After returning from Australia, he said 'Miyan, well bowled, what you've done in Australia is unbelievable. Nobody will be able to forget what you've done there. Keep at it and keep your focus on fitness and keep putting in the hard work," Siraj said on the podcast. Siraj has since gone on to become a regular for India across formats and has not looked back. His performances in the Indian Premier League (IPL) have also been superb and the fast bowler has been retained by his franchise RCB ahead of IPL 2022.

'Nobody will forget what you've done': What Virat Kohli told Mohammed Siraj after pacer's heroics in Australia

India got off to a winning start in the ongoing three-match ODI series against West Indies with a comfortable six-wicket win in the first ODI at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday. The hosts will be locking horns with Kieron Pollard &amp; Co. in the second ODI of the series on Wednesday and will be hoping to continue their winning run against the visitors.

Spinners Yuzvendra Chahal and Washington Sundar were brilliant for India in the series-opener as the duo rattled the West Indies batting line up to pick up seven wickets between them. West Indies were bundled out for a paltry 176 runs in 43.5 overs before India chased down the target with as many as 22 overs to spare.

Captain Rohit Sharma, who was leading the Men in Blue in his first ODI as the full-time skipper of the Indian team, slammed a brilliant 51-ball 60 to get the hosts off to a good start before Suryakumr Yadav (34) and debutant Deepak Hooda (26) wrapped up the run-chase while remaining unbeaten.

It was a comfortable victory for India in the first ODI, however, a change is likely in the playing XI for the second ODI as KL Rahul is available for selection after missing the first game. The vice-captain had missed the series-opener due to personal reasons but is likely to return to the XI in the second game.

Rahul is likely to replace left-hand batter Ishan Kishan at the top as India would like to give Hooda more chances in the middle-order after his good show on debut. Kishan, who also looked in fine touch for his 28 off 36 balls, might have to make way for Rahul, who is unlikely to be slotted in the middle-order and will play as an opener.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-wi-virat-kohli-to-join-sachin-tendulkar-ms-dhoni-yuvraj-singh-in-elite-list-during-2nd-odi-451477">&nbsp;Virat Kohli to join Sachin Tendulkar, MS Dhoni, Yuvraj Singh in elite list during 2nd ODI</a>

Apart from Rahul replacing Kishan, India are unlikely to make any other change and will once again reply on the spin pair of Chahal and Sundar to continue their terrific run in the second game. Sundar is unlikely to be replaced by any other spinner as he offers a lot with the bat as well lower down the order.

India's predicted XI for 2nd ODI against West Indies:

Rohit Sharma (c), KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant (wk), Suryakumar Yadav, Deepak Hooda, Washington Sundar, Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Siraj, Yuzvendra Chahal,&nbsp;Prasidh Krishna

&nbsp;

India got off to a winning start in the ongoing three-match ODI series against West Indies with a comfortable six-wicket win in the first ODI at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday.

India got off to a winning start in the ongoing three-match ODI series against West Indies with a comfortable six-wicket win in the first ODI at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday. The hosts will be locking horns with Kieron Pollard & Co. in the second ODI of the series on Wednesday and will be hoping to continue their winning run against the visitors. Spinners Yuzvendra Chahal and Washington Sundar were brilliant for India in the series-opener as the duo rattled the West Indies batting line up to pick up seven wickets between them. West Indies were bundled out for a paltry 176 runs in 43.5 overs before India chased down the target with as many as 22 overs to spare. Captain Rohit Sharma, who was leading the Men in Blue in his first ODI as the full-time skipper of the Indian team, slammed a brilliant 51-ball 60 to get the hosts off to a good start before Suryakumr Yadav (34) and debutant Deepak Hooda (26) wrapped up the run-chase while remaining unbeaten. It was a comfortable victory for India in the first ODI, however, a change is likely in the playing XI for the second ODI as KL Rahul is available for selection after missing the first game. The vice-captain had missed the series-opener due to personal reasons but is likely to return to the XI in the second game. Rahul is likely to replace left-hand batter Ishan Kishan at the top as India would like to give Hooda more chances in the middle-order after his good show on debut. Kishan, who also looked in fine touch for his 28 off 36 balls, might have to make way for Rahul, who is unlikely to be slotted in the middle-order and will play as an opener. Also Read: Virat Kohli to join Sachin Tendulkar, MS Dhoni, Yuvraj Singh in elite list during 2nd ODI Apart from Rahul replacing Kishan, India are unlikely to make any other change and will once again reply on the spin pair of Chahal and Sundar to continue their terrific run in the second game. Sundar is unlikely to be replaced by any other spinner as he offers a lot with the bat as well lower down the order. India's predicted XI for 2nd ODI against West Indies: Rohit Sharma (c), KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant (wk), Suryakumar Yadav, Deepak Hooda, Washington Sundar, Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Siraj, Yuzvendra Chahal, Prasidh Krishna

Ishan Kishan to make way for KL Rahul? India's predicted playing XI for 2nd ODI against West Indies

Legendary Indian singer Lata Mangeshkar passed away on Sunday (February 06), leaving the entire country mourning. One of the greatest singers of all time, she sang thousands of songs across several different languages and gave the Indian film industry some of its evergreen hits. Popularly known as the 'Nightingale of India', the music legend was also a huge cricket fan and one of the ardent supporters of the Indian cricket team.

Mangeshkar rarely used to miss a game when the Indian cricket team was in action and was a keen follower of the Men in Blue. She once even took to Twitter to request former India captain MS Dhoni to not think about retirement at a time when speculations were rife that Dhoni was ready to quit international cricket. The incident happened back in 2019 after India's exit from the ICC World Cup 2019.

India suffered a heartbreaking 18-run loss in the semi-final against New Zealand in the 2019 World Cup following which rumours spread that Dhoni was going to announce his retirement from international cricket. Mangeshkar then took to Twitter to urge the former India skipper to not do so stating that India needed his services in the game.

"Namaskar M S Dhoni ji.Aaj kal main sun rahi hun ke Aap retire hona chahte hain.Kripaya aap aisa mat sochiye.Desh ko aap ke khel ki zaroorat hai aur ye meri bhi request hai ki Retirement ka vichar bhi aap mann mein mat laayiye.@msdhoni (Hello, MS Dhoni ji. Of late, I have been hearing that you want to retire. Please don't think that way. India needs your game and it is my personal request too that you don't think of retirement.)" - the legendary singer wrote in a tweet.

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Namaskar M S Dhoni ji.Aaj kal main sun rahi hun ke Aap retire hona chahte hain.Kripaya aap aisa mat sochiye.Desh ko aap ke khel ki zaroorat hai aur ye meri bhi request hai ki Retirement ka vichar bhi aap mann mein mat laayiye.<a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a>
— Lata Mangeshkar (@mangeshkarlata) <a href="https://twitter.com/mangeshkarlata/status/1149232640962154497?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 11, 2019</a></blockquote>
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While Dhoni did not announce his retirement immediately after the ICC ODI World Cup in 2019, he quit international cricket on August 15, 2020. One of the most successful captains in the history of the game, Dhoni led India to unprecedented success across formats and remains the only skipper to have won all three major ICC trophies - (T20 World Cup, ODI World Cup and the Champions Trophy).

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/throwback-when-lata-mangeshkar-fasted-for-ms-dhoni-led-indias-cwc11-semi-final-win-vs-pakistan-451229">Throwback!&nbsp;When Lata Mangeshkar fasted for MS Dhoni-led India's CWC'11 semi-final win vs Pakistan</a>

Dhoni continues to ply his trade in the Indian Premier League (IPL) where he leads his team Chennai Super Kings (CSK). Under Dhoni, CSK scripted a fairytale comeback in IPL 2021 last year as they went on to lift their fourth title after defeating Kolkata Knight Riders in the final. Dhoni has been retained by CSK ahead of IPL 2022 and will be back leading the team once again this year.

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Legendary Indian singer Lata Mangeshkar passed away on Sunday (February 06), leaving the entire country mourning. One of the greatest singers of all time, she sang thousands of songs across several different languages and gave the Indian film industry some of its evergreen hits.

Legendary Indian singer Lata Mangeshkar passed away on Sunday (February 06), leaving the entire country mourning. One of the greatest singers of all time, she sang thousands of songs across several different languages and gave the Indian film industry some of its evergreen hits. Popularly known as the 'Nightingale of India', the music legend was also a huge cricket fan and one of the ardent supporters of the Indian cricket team. Mangeshkar rarely used to miss a game when the Indian cricket team was in action and was a keen follower of the Men in Blue. She once even took to Twitter to request former India captain MS Dhoni to not think about retirement at a time when speculations were rife that Dhoni was ready to quit international cricket. The incident happened back in 2019 after India's exit from the ICC World Cup 2019. India suffered a heartbreaking 18-run loss in the semi-final against New Zealand in the 2019 World Cup following which rumours spread that Dhoni was going to announce his retirement from international cricket. Mangeshkar then took to Twitter to urge the former India skipper to not do so stating that India needed his services in the game. "Namaskar M S Dhoni ji.Aaj kal main sun rahi hun ke Aap retire hona chahte hain.Kripaya aap aisa mat sochiye.Desh ko aap ke khel ki zaroorat hai aur ye meri bhi request hai ki Retirement ka vichar bhi aap mann mein mat laayiye.@msdhoni (Hello, MS Dhoni ji. Of late, I have been hearing that you want to retire. Please don't think that way. India needs your game and it is my personal request too that you don't think of retirement.)" - the legendary singer wrote in a tweet. Namaskar M S Dhoni ji.Aaj kal main sun rahi hun ke Aap retire hona chahte hain.Kripaya aap aisa mat sochiye.Desh ko aap ke khel ki zaroorat hai aur ye meri bhi request hai ki Retirement ka vichar bhi aap mann mein mat laayiye.@msdhoni — Lata Mangeshkar (@mangeshkarlata) July 11, 2019 × While Dhoni did not announce his retirement immediately after the ICC ODI World Cup in 2019, he quit international cricket on August 15, 2020. One of the most successful captains in the history of the game, Dhoni led India to unprecedented success across formats and remains the only skipper to have won all three major ICC trophies - (T20 World Cup, ODI World Cup and the Champions Trophy). Also Read: Throwback! When Lata Mangeshkar fasted for MS Dhoni-led India's CWC'11 semi-final win vs Pakistan Dhoni continues to ply his trade in the Indian Premier League (IPL) where he leads his team Chennai Super Kings (CSK). Under Dhoni, CSK scripted a fairytale comeback in IPL 2021 last year as they went on to lift their fourth title after defeating Kolkata Knight Riders in the final. Dhoni has been retained by CSK ahead of IPL 2022 and will be back leading the team once again this year.

'India needs your game': When Lata Mangeshkar requested MS Dhoni to not retire from international cricket

New Zealand captain Kane Williamson will miss the two-match test series against South Africa later this month after failing to recover in time from a long-standing elbow injury, the country`s cricket board (NZC) said on Monday. All-rounder Colin de Grandhomme and opener Hamish Rutherford have been recalled for the first game while wicketkeeper Cam Fletcher and fast bowler Blair Tickner were given maiden call-ups to the test side, which will be led by Tom Latham.

The first test starts at Christchurch`s Hagley Oval on Feb. 17. "(Kane) was desperate to be fit for the series but with the amount of loading required for test cricket, we had to make the tough call... and focus on returning for the white-ball matches against the Netherlands in March," said Kiwi head coach Gary Stead. 
The 31-year-old Williamson also sat out the two-test home series against Bangladesh last month due to the niggling elbow issue.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2022-tickets-for-india-pakistan-clash-at-the-mcg-sold-out-in-a-flash-451271">T20 World Cup 2022: Tickets for India-Pakistan clash, at the MCG, SOLD OUT in a flash</a>

Seamer Trent Boult will also be unavailable as he awaits the birth of his third child, while left-arm spinner Ajaz Patel could potentially be in the fray for the second test. "It`s important to remember this squad is just for the first Test so we do have flexibility to make changes as required, with the likes of Trent and Ajaz potentially available for the second," added Stead.

Squad for the first Test:

Tom Latham (captain), Tom Blundell, Devon Conway, Colin de Grandhomme, Cam Fletcher, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Daryl Mitchell, Henry Nicholls, Rachin Ravindra, Hamish Rutherford, Tim Southee, Blair Tickner, Neil Wagner, Will Young

New Zealand captain Kane Williamson will miss the two-match test series against South Africa later this month after failing to recover in time from a long-standing elbow injury, the country`s cricket board (NZC) said on Monday.

New Zealand captain Kane Williamson will miss the two-match test series against South Africa later this month after failing to recover in time from a long-standing elbow injury, the country`s cricket board (NZC) said on Monday. All-rounder Colin de Grandhomme and opener Hamish Rutherford have been recalled for the first game while wicketkeeper Cam Fletcher and fast bowler Blair Tickner were given maiden call-ups to the test side, which will be led by Tom Latham. The first test starts at Christchurch`s Hagley Oval on Feb. 17. "(Kane) was desperate to be fit for the series but with the amount of loading required for test cricket, we had to make the tough call... and focus on returning for the white-ball matches against the Netherlands in March," said Kiwi head coach Gary Stead. The 31-year-old Williamson also sat out the two-test home series against Bangladesh last month due to the niggling elbow issue. ALSO READ | T20 World Cup 2022: Tickets for India-Pakistan clash, at the MCG, SOLD OUT in a flash Seamer Trent Boult will also be unavailable as he awaits the birth of his third child, while left-arm spinner Ajaz Patel could potentially be in the fray for the second test. "It`s important to remember this squad is just for the first Test so we do have flexibility to make changes as required, with the likes of Trent and Ajaz potentially available for the second," added Stead. Squad for the first Test: Tom Latham (captain), Tom Blundell, Devon Conway, Colin de Grandhomme, Cam Fletcher, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Daryl Mitchell, Henry Nicholls, Rachin Ravindra, Hamish Rutherford, Tim Southee, Blair Tickner, Neil Wagner, Will Young

New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson ruled out of South Africa series due to long-standing elbow injury

On Sunday (February 6), India lost one of its biggest superstars in the form of&nbsp;Lata Mangeshkar as the ace singer passed away&nbsp;at Mumbai's Breach Candy hospital after a month-long battle with Covid-19 infection. The sensational singer touched several hearts with her soulful voice over the years and her contributions to the Indian film industry will remain alive forever.&nbsp;

For the unversed, Mangeshkar was an ardent fan of the Indian cricket team. She was in attendance during Kapil Dev-led India's emphatic 1983 World Cup win at Lord's. In addition, the&nbsp;'nightingale of India' had fasted for the entire day during India-Pakistan's riveting 2011 ODI World Cup semi-final clash at Mohali. In an interview with&nbsp;PTI&nbsp;at the time, Mangeshkar had revealed, “I had watched the whole match and I was very tense. Everyone in my family follows some kind of superstition when India is playing. I, Meena, and Usha did not eat or drink anything during the match. I was constantly praying for victory and we had our dinner after India won."

Talking about the Indo-Pak CWC'11 semi-final clash, MS Dhoni-led Men in Blue beat Pakistan by 29 runs -- in defence of 261 -- to enter the final, where they beat Sri Lanka and clinch&nbsp;the mega title.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/your-legacy-will-inspire-generations-kohli-sehwag-others-condole-demise-of-veteran-singer-lata-mangeshkar-450860">Your legacy will inspire generations: Kohli, Sehwag &amp; others condole demise of veteran singer Lata Mangeshkar</a>

Mangeshkar had also held a concert for the Kapil Dev-led Indian team following the 1983 WC win. It helped the BCCI to pay each&nbsp;Indian player&nbsp;0.1 Million (Rs 1 lakh) following the nation's first-ever World Cup title. The Bharat Ratna awardee also owns a signed photograph of Sir Donald Bradman.&nbsp;

The late singer's death has led to a&nbsp;two-date state mourning nationwide. Her funeral was conducted in Mumbai on Sunday evening with several big names such as Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Shahrukh Khan, Sachin Tendulkar being in attendance. Cricketers from various parts of the world also took to social media platform Twitter to pay tribute and condolences to the iconic singer.

On Sunday (February 6), India lost one of its biggest superstars in the form of Lata Mangeshkar as the ace singer passed away at Mumbai's Breach Candy hospital after a month-long battle with Covid-19 infection.

On Sunday (February 6), India lost one of its biggest superstars in the form of Lata Mangeshkar as the ace singer passed away at Mumbai's Breach Candy hospital after a month-long battle with Covid-19 infection. The sensational singer touched several hearts with her soulful voice over the years and her contributions to the Indian film industry will remain alive forever. For the unversed, Mangeshkar was an ardent fan of the Indian cricket team. She was in attendance during Kapil Dev-led India's emphatic 1983 World Cup win at Lord's. In addition, the 'nightingale of India' had fasted for the entire day during India-Pakistan's riveting 2011 ODI World Cup semi-final clash at Mohali. In an interview with PTI at the time, Mangeshkar had revealed, “I had watched the whole match and I was very tense. Everyone in my family follows some kind of superstition when India is playing. I, Meena, and Usha did not eat or drink anything during the match. I was constantly praying for victory and we had our dinner after India won." Talking about the Indo-Pak CWC'11 semi-final clash, MS Dhoni-led Men in Blue beat Pakistan by 29 runs -- in defence of 261 -- to enter the final, where they beat Sri Lanka and clinch the mega title. ALSO READ | Your legacy will inspire generations: Kohli, Sehwag & others condole demise of veteran singer Lata Mangeshkar Mangeshkar had also held a concert for the Kapil Dev-led Indian team following the 1983 WC win. It helped the BCCI to pay each Indian player 0.1 Million (Rs 1 lakh) following the nation's first-ever World Cup title. The Bharat Ratna awardee also owns a signed photograph of Sir Donald Bradman. The late singer's death has led to a two-date state mourning nationwide. Her funeral was conducted in Mumbai on Sunday evening with several big names such as Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Shahrukh Khan, Sachin Tendulkar being in attendance. Cricketers from various parts of the world also took to social media platform Twitter to pay tribute and condolences to the iconic singer.

Throwback: When Lata Mangeshkar fasted for MS Dhoni-led India's CWC'11 semi-final win vs Pakistan

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