The Afghan National cricket team captain Asghar Stanikzai has been hospitalized in Zimbabwe for appendicitis which means he will miss the 2019 World Cup qualifying campaign. The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) citing the doctors have reported that Stanikzai will undergo a surgery today.

The 30-year-old middle order batsman will miss the warm-up games this week as well as the tournament opener against Scotland on March 4 although officials expect him to be fit to face hosts Zimbabwe two days later.

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BREAKING: Afghanistan captain Asghar Stanikzai has been ruled out of the start of their <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketworldcup?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@cricketworldcup</a> qualifier campaign, requiring surgery for appendicitis <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWCQ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWCQ</a> <a href="https://t.co/SnRe9y5Fu8">https://t.co/SnRe9y5Fu8</a> <a href="https://t.co/FQBIoChNxI">pic.twitter.com/FQBIoChNxI</a>
&mdash; ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/968085361346928640?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Stanikzai has played 83 one-day internationals and made 1,565 runs.

Afghanistan is in Group B of the qualifying tournament which is being staged in Zimbabwe and will face the home country, Nepal, Hong Kong and Scotland in the first round.

The top three teams from the two groups will qualify for the second stage with the best two countries at the end of the event booking their places at the 2019 World Cup being held in England and Wales.

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Stanikzai was ruled out of the start of the tournament after undergoing surgery to have his appendix removed, the International Cricket Council announced

The Afghan National cricket team captain Asghar Stanikzai has been hospitalized in Zimbabwe for appendicitis which means he will miss the 2019 World Cup qualifying campaign. The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) citing the doctors have reported that Stanikzai will undergo a surgery today. The 30-year-old middle order batsman will miss the warm-up games this week as well as the tournament opener against Scotland on March 4 although officials expect him to be fit to face hosts Zimbabwe two days later. BREAKING: Afghanistan captain Asghar Stanikzai has been ruled out of the start of their @cricketworldcup qualifier campaign, requiring surgery for appendicitis #CWCQ https://t.co/SnRe9y5Fu8 pic.twitter.com/FQBIoChNxI — ICC (@ICC) February 26, 2018 × Stanikzai has played 83 one-day internationals and made 1,565 runs. Afghanistan is in Group B of the qualifying tournament which is being staged in Zimbabwe and will face the home country, Nepal, Hong Kong and Scotland in the first round. The top three teams from the two groups will qualify for the second stage with the best two countries at the end of the event booking their places at the 2019 World Cup being held in England and Wales.

Afghan skipper Asghar Stanikzai to miss start of World Cup qualifiers

Everything is going against Arsenal in the ongoing season as they sit at spot number 6 of English Premier League table. Also, they are 27 points behind the table leaders, Manchester City. Recently, they suffered a massive 3-0 defeat against the Reds in the finals of Carabao Cup. Arsenal, led by Arsene Wenger has a voodoo of losing in the finals as no manager has lost more League Cup finals than Arsene Wenger (2007, 2011 and 2018). This was the fourth time when the Gunners lost in a final clash. Last season was Wenger&rsquo;s worst at the club. This season is shaping up to be even poorer.

The Gunners, especially coach Wenger is facing criticism from all the corners. Recently, Harsha Bhogle, an Indian cricket commentator, a sports journalist and also an Arsenal fan lashed out at Wenger.

He took to Twitter to troll Arsene Wenger he especially&nbsp;targeted Wenger and mentioned &quot;new manager&quot; in his tweets and in a way supported #WengerOut.

Here is what he has tweeted:

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For a football club that is really a no 5/no 6 club and which, at best, could aspire for no 4, Arsenal gets a lot of media attention. Maybe even more next year when they have to have a new manager.
&mdash; Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) <a href="https://twitter.com/bhogleharsha/status/968030026070454272?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Currently that is what they are and emotion rarely covers reality. Yes, great club, no doubt at all about it and hopefully, will go back to where they should be. When a new manager arrives and everyone can offer a genuine thank you to a great manager. <a href="https://t.co/fmy50WC8vL">https://t.co/fmy50WC8vL</a>
&mdash; Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) <a href="https://twitter.com/bhogleharsha/status/968053299080499200?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Harsha quoted the tweets as, &quot;For a football club that is really a no 5/no 6 club and which, at best, could aspire for no 4, Arsenal gets a lot of media attention. Maybe even more &nbsp;next year when they have to have a new manager.&quot;

In another tweet, he said, &quot;Currently that is what they are and emotion rarely covers reality. Yes, great club, no doubt at all about it and hopefully, will go back to where they should be. When a new manager arrives and everyone can offer a genuine thank you to a great manager.&quot;

On the contrary, cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin came in Wenger&#39;s defence and said, &quot;Oh no, Arsenal ain&rsquo;t so bad Harsha, all teams go through ups and downs.

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Oh no ????&zwj;♂️ Arsenal ain&rsquo;t so bad Harsha, all teams go through ups and downs.☺️ <a href="https://t.co/DhtaNdKAYi">https://t.co/DhtaNdKAYi</a>
&mdash; Ashwin Ravichandran (@ashwinravi99) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99/status/968031593930530816?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2018</a></blockquote>
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An Arsenal fan Harsha Bhogle took to Twitter to troll Arsene Wenger, he mentioned "new manager" in his tweets and in a way supported #WengerOut campaign

Everything is going against Arsenal in the ongoing season as they sit at spot number 6 of English Premier League table. Also, they are 27 points behind the table leaders, Manchester City. Recently, they suffered a massive 3-0 defeat against the Reds in the finals of Carabao Cup. Arsenal, led by Arsene Wenger has a voodoo of losing in the finals as no manager has lost more League Cup finals than Arsene Wenger (2007, 2011 and 2018). This was the fourth time when the Gunners lost in a final clash. Last season was Wenger’s worst at the club. This season is shaping up to be even poorer. The Gunners, especially coach Wenger is facing criticism from all the corners. Recently, Harsha Bhogle, an Indian cricket commentator, a sports journalist and also an Arsenal fan lashed out at Wenger. He took to Twitter to troll Arsene Wenger he especially targeted Wenger and mentioned "new manager" in his tweets and in a way supported #WengerOut. Here is what he has tweeted: For a football club that is really a no 5/no 6 club and which, at best, could aspire for no 4, Arsenal gets a lot of media attention. Maybe even more next year when they have to have a new manager. — Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) February 26, 2018 × Currently that is what they are and emotion rarely covers reality. Yes, great club, no doubt at all about it and hopefully, will go back to where they should be. When a new manager arrives and everyone can offer a genuine thank you to a great manager. https://t.co/fmy50WC8vL — Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) February 26, 2018 × Harsha quoted the tweets as, "For a football club that is really a no 5/no 6 club and which, at best, could aspire for no 4, Arsenal gets a lot of media attention. Maybe even more next year when they have to have a new manager." In another tweet, he said, "Currently that is what they are and emotion rarely covers reality. Yes, great club, no doubt at all about it and hopefully, will go back to where they should be. When a new manager arrives and everyone can offer a genuine thank you to a great manager." On the contrary, cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin came in Wenger's defence and said, "Oh no, Arsenal ain’t so bad Harsha, all teams go through ups and downs. Oh no ????‍♂️ Arsenal ain’t so bad Harsha, all teams go through ups and downs.☺️ https://t.co/DhtaNdKAYi — Ashwin Ravichandran (@ashwinravi99) February 26, 2018 ×

Cricket analyst Harsha Bhogle trolls Arsenal's manager Wenger

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-announces-prize-money-for-victorious-team-india-31659">Indian under-19</a> cricket team won the&nbsp;World Cup, defeating Australia by 8 wickets in the final clash. Skipper Prithvi Shaw led the team to a historic fourth-time victory in the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-announces-prize-money-for-victorious-team-india-31659">World Cup</a>. After the spectacular performance, BCCI had announced prize money for victorious India U19 team.

Mr Rahul Dravid, Head Coach India U19 &ndash; INR 50 lakhs.

Members of India U19 team &ndash; INR 30 lakhs each.

Members of the Support Staff, India U19 &ndash; INR 20 lakhs each.

Rahul Dravid was not happy over the disparity and discrimination in the cash rewards awarded to him and the members of the support staff. He also mentioned that the team should get the media attention not me. There were reports that he asked the board to look into the issue.

According to recent media reports, it is believed that BCCI has revised the amounts after a discussion with Dravid. Now all the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-announces-prize-money-for-victorious-team-india-31659">support staff</a> such as bowling coach, fielding coach, physiotherapist and trainer including coach Dravid will be paid 25 lakh each.

&nbsp;

Rahul Dravid was not happy over the disparity and discrimination in the cash rewards awarded to him and the members of the support staff

The Indian under-19 cricket team won the World Cup, defeating Australia by 8 wickets in the final clash. Skipper Prithvi Shaw led the team to a historic fourth-time victory in the World Cup. After the spectacular performance, BCCI had announced prize money for victorious India U19 team. Mr Rahul Dravid, Head Coach India U19 – INR 50 lakhs. Members of India U19 team – INR 30 lakhs each. Members of the Support Staff, India U19 – INR 20 lakhs each. Rahul Dravid was not happy over the disparity and discrimination in the cash rewards awarded to him and the members of the support staff. He also mentioned that the team should get the media attention not me. There were reports that he asked the board to look into the issue. According to recent media reports, it is believed that BCCI has revised the amounts after a discussion with Dravid. Now all the support staff such as bowling coach, fielding coach, physiotherapist and trainer including coach Dravid will be paid 25 lakh each.

BCCI agrees to Rahul Dravid's demand of parity in cash reward

Cricket and Bollywood are two different industry but have stood together through&nbsp;thick and thins. Sridevi&#39;s tragic and untimely death has brought tears to her <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-remembering-sridevi-most-iconic-roles-that-made-her-bollywoods-first-female-superstar-33992">fans and followers</a>. Even the cricket fraternity mourns the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/legendary-actor-sridevi-dies-tributes-pour-in-from-all-over-the-world-33953">unfortunate death</a>. Padma Shri awardee Sridevi had an<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-remembering-sridevi-most-iconic-roles-that-made-her-bollywoods-first-female-superstar-33992"> illustrious career</a> spanning over four decades, passed away at 54. The actor, the wife of producer Boney Kapoor, died late in the night reportedly due to cardiac arrest in Dubai, where she had gone along with her family to attend her nephew Mohit Marwah&#39;s wedding.

Confirming the news, a source close to the family said, &quot;Yes it&#39;s true. She was in Dubai while some of the other family members came back to India. We hear it&#39;s cardiac arrest.&quot;

Many cricketers and Bollywood actresses have tied knots such as Zaheer Khan and Sagarika Ghatge, Yuvraj Singh and Hazel Keech, Harbhajan Singh and Geeta Basra, Mohammad Azharuddin and Sangeeta Bijlani, Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi and Sharmila Tagore also the current skipper Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma. Both the industries share a very strong bond.

See how cricketers react to the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/legendary-actor-sridevi-dies-tributes-pour-in-from-all-over-the-world-33953">demise of the legendary</a> actress:

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<a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sachin_rt</a> About <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Sridevi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Sridevi</a> Garu<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RIPSridevi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RIPSridevi</a><a href="https://twitter.com/SrideviBKapoor?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SrideviBKapoor</a> ???? <a href="https://t.co/BZCkGi639s">pic.twitter.com/BZCkGi639s</a>
&mdash; Sach Boy (@LoyalSachiNist) <a href="https://twitter.com/LoyalSachiNist/status/967642841789825025?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Shocked to hear about the demise of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Sridevi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Sridevi</a> ji .Heartfelt Condolences to the family. Om Shanti !
&mdash; Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) <a href="https://twitter.com/virendersehwag/status/967599612839317506?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Sridevi no more ? ????so difficult to fathom that she is no more, such is life I guess. Strong will to those near and dear to her. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RIPSridevi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RIPSridevi</a> ????
&mdash; Ashwin Ravichandran (@ashwinravi99) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99/status/967563138592731136?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
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This can&#39;t be true. 
She is one of the best actress in his own time. 
Shocked .<a href="https://twitter.com/SrideviBKapoor?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SrideviBKapoor</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RIP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RIP</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Sridevi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Sridevi</a> <a href="https://t.co/zne6bqnJ2p">pic.twitter.com/zne6bqnJ2p</a>
&mdash; Aakash chopra ⛑️ (@Sir_akashchopra) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sir_akashchopra/status/967578326406545408?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Very shocked to hear about the passing away of iconic actress <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Sridevi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Sridevi</a> ji. Condolences to her family and loved ones. May her soul rest in peace.
&mdash; VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) <a href="https://twitter.com/VVSLaxman281/status/967553683046023168?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Absolutely shocked to hear about the passing away of our Bollywood queen <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Sridevi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Sridevi</a> . May her soul rest in peace, my deepest condolences to the family ????
&mdash; yuvraj singh (@YUVSTRONG12) <a href="https://twitter.com/YUVSTRONG12/status/967678366731075584?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
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So shocked to hear the news of Sridevi ji... met her few months ago at my show ... just can&rsquo;t believe it ..
&mdash; Sourav Ganguly (@SGanguly99) <a href="https://twitter.com/SGanguly99/status/967630743655669760?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

'No words to express what I feel,' says Sachin Tendulkar on Sridevi's tragic death

Cricket and Bollywood are two different industry but have stood together through thick and thins. Sridevi's tragic and untimely death has brought tears to her fans and followers. Even the cricket fraternity mourns the unfortunate death. Padma Shri awardee Sridevi had an illustrious career spanning over four decades, passed away at 54. The actor, the wife of producer Boney Kapoor, died late in the night reportedly due to cardiac arrest in Dubai, where she had gone along with her family to attend her nephew Mohit Marwah's wedding. Confirming the news, a source close to the family said, "Yes it's true. She was in Dubai while some of the other family members came back to India. We hear it's cardiac arrest." Many cricketers and Bollywood actresses have tied knots such as Zaheer Khan and Sagarika Ghatge, Yuvraj Singh and Hazel Keech, Harbhajan Singh and Geeta Basra, Mohammad Azharuddin and Sangeeta Bijlani, Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi and Sharmila Tagore also the current skipper Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma. Both the industries share a very strong bond. See how cricketers react to the demise of the legendary actress: @sachin_rt About #Sridevi Garu#RIPSridevi@SrideviBKapoor ???? pic.twitter.com/BZCkGi639s — Sach Boy (@LoyalSachiNist) February 25, 2018 × Shocked to hear about the demise of #Sridevi ji .Heartfelt Condolences to the family. Om Shanti ! — Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) February 25, 2018 × Sridevi no more ? ????so difficult to fathom that she is no more, such is life I guess. Strong will to those near and dear to her. #RIPSridevi ???? — Ashwin Ravichandran (@ashwinravi99) February 25, 2018 × This can't be true. She is one of the best actress in his own time. Shocked .@SrideviBKapoor #RIP #Sridevi pic.twitter.com/zne6bqnJ2p — Aakash chopra ⛑️ (@Sir_akashchopra) February 25, 2018 × Very shocked to hear about the passing away of iconic actress #Sridevi ji. Condolences to her family and loved ones. May her soul rest in peace. — VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) February 25, 2018 × Absolutely shocked to hear about the passing away of our Bollywood queen #Sridevi . May her soul rest in peace, my deepest condolences to the family ???? — yuvraj singh (@YUVSTRONG12) February 25, 2018 × So shocked to hear the news of Sridevi ji... met her few months ago at my show ... just can’t believe it .. — Sourav Ganguly (@SGanguly99) February 25, 2018 × ×

Indian cricketers mourn Bollywood's loss as Sridevi passes away

The much-hyped return to international cricket for England all-rounder Ben Stokes was a short-lived affair with the bat in the first one-day international against New Zealand on Sunday.

The 26-year-old, who has been sidelined by England since a nightclub incident five months ago, lasted only 22 balls and made 12 runs before he was dismissed.

He was undone by a flighted delivery from spinner Mitch Santner which the left-hander attempted to slog-sweep but instead top-edged it to Ross Taylor.

Stokes&#39;s dismissal left England at 139 for four in the 29th over with Joe Root, not out 61.

New Zealand won the toss and elected to bowl in the first game of a five-match series.

&nbsp;

Stokes's dismissal left England at 139 for four in the 29th over with Joe Root, not out 61

The much-hyped return to international cricket for England all-rounder Ben Stokes was a short-lived affair with the bat in the first one-day international against New Zealand on Sunday. The 26-year-old, who has been sidelined by England since a nightclub incident five months ago, lasted only 22 balls and made 12 runs before he was dismissed. He was undone by a flighted delivery from spinner Mitch Santner which the left-hander attempted to slog-sweep but instead top-edged it to Ross Taylor. Stokes's dismissal left England at 139 for four in the 29th over with Joe Root, not out 61. New Zealand won the toss and elected to bowl in the first game of a five-match series.

Stokes suffers short-lived return for England

India won the final T-20 International&nbsp;match by 7 runs and claimed the series by 2-1&nbsp;at Newlands, Cape Town on Saturday. In a nail-biting match, where the last over decided the result India outplayed the Proteas to clinch the trophy and end the South Africa tour in style. The match was crucial for both of the teams as they both were eyeing to win the final clash&nbsp;to claim the trophy but it was India, who manifest&nbsp;the intent of winning and emerging as a champion.

Although India did not start off the innings well as the interim skipper Rohit Sharma lost his wicket early and also other batsmen could not produce results.

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India claim the series 2-1! They survive a stunning late charge from debutant Christiaan Jonker to seal victory in the 3rd T20I by seven runs! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvIND</a> scorecard ➡️ <a href="https://t.co/tWQG20g5Mh">https://t.co/tWQG20g5Mh</a> <a href="https://t.co/J32j8qKug8">pic.twitter.com/J32j8qKug8</a>
&mdash; ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/967480485810196481?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2018</a></blockquote>
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After winning the game Rohit Sharma said, &quot;Throughout the series, we showed a lot of intensity, which helped us get those crucial wins. We never backed down from whatever situation we were thrown in.&quot;

Dhawan scored 47 runs off 40, Raina played a breezy knock of 43 runs off 27 balls. Apart from the two, no other player managed to reach the 30-run mark. Wicketkeeper-batsman Mahendra Singh Dhoni (MSD) too fell off for 12 runs after playing 11 balls.

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???????? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/ma8G6Mr6iR">pic.twitter.com/ma8G6Mr6iR</a>
&mdash; BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/967480982893932544?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Debutant Jonker scared Indian bowlers as he scored 49 massive runs off 24 at a very crucial time. Being a new batsman, he startled Indian bowlers because none of the strategies were&nbsp;working against&nbsp;him. His knock gave chills to Indian pacers but it was Bhuvneshwar who took his wicket on the last delivery by edging the ball in the safe hands of Rohit Sharma.

For South Africa, captain JP Duminy tried to salvage South Africa and provided a support to the team by scoring 55 runs. He found a determined ally in David Miller and together they scored 35 runs for the team but Raina, who was awarded player of the match for scoring quick 43 runs took Miller&#39;s wicket and saw him off.

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The 3rd T20I Player of the Match award goes to <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRaina?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImRaina</a> after a dynamic batting display and a crucial wicket with the ball! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/mCjjc1cSOY">pic.twitter.com/mCjjc1cSOY</a>
&mdash; ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/967484528838234112?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Bhuvneshwar Kumar received player of the series for taking 7 wickets with an average of 9.57 in the T-20 series.

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India&#39;s <a href="https://twitter.com/BhuviOfficial?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BhuviOfficial</a> is the Player of the Series after 7 wickets in the series! Congratulations! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/9j03WJpNpo">pic.twitter.com/9j03WJpNpo</a>
&mdash; ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/967484840777011201?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Fall of wickets:&nbsp;

South Africa: 1-10 (Hendricks), 2-45 (Miller), 3-79 (Klaasen), 4-109 (Duminy), 5-114 (Morris), 6-165 (Jonker)

India: 1-14 (Sharma), 2-79 (Raina), 3-111 (Pandey), 4-126 (Dhawan), 5-151 (Dhoni), 6-163 (Pandya), 7-168 (Karthik)

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/3rd-t20-south-africa-opts-to-bowl-in-series-decider-kohli-ruled-out-due-to-injury-33941">Read here</a> what happend in the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/3rd-t20-south-africa-opts-to-bowl-in-series-decider-kohli-ruled-out-due-to-injury-33941">first innings</a>.

&nbsp;

Suresh Raina received man of the match and Bhuvneshwar awarded player of the series in the T-20 series

India won the final T-20 International match by 7 runs and claimed the series by 2-1 at Newlands, Cape Town on Saturday. In a nail-biting match, where the last over decided the result India outplayed the Proteas to clinch the trophy and end the South Africa tour in style. The match was crucial for both of the teams as they both were eyeing to win the final clash to claim the trophy but it was India, who manifest the intent of winning and emerging as a champion. Although India did not start off the innings well as the interim skipper Rohit Sharma lost his wicket early and also other batsmen could not produce results. India claim the series 2-1! They survive a stunning late charge from debutant Christiaan Jonker to seal victory in the 3rd T20I by seven runs! #SAvIND scorecard ➡️ https://t.co/tWQG20g5Mh pic.twitter.com/J32j8qKug8 — ICC (@ICC) February 24, 2018 × After winning the game Rohit Sharma said, "Throughout the series, we showed a lot of intensity, which helped us get those crucial wins. We never backed down from whatever situation we were thrown in." Dhawan scored 47 runs off 40, Raina played a breezy knock of 43 runs off 27 balls. Apart from the two, no other player managed to reach the 30-run mark. Wicketkeeper-batsman Mahendra Singh Dhoni (MSD) too fell off for 12 runs after playing 11 balls. ???????? #SAvIND pic.twitter.com/ma8G6Mr6iR — BCCI (@BCCI) February 24, 2018 × Debutant Jonker scared Indian bowlers as he scored 49 massive runs off 24 at a very crucial time. Being a new batsman, he startled Indian bowlers because none of the strategies were working against him. His knock gave chills to Indian pacers but it was Bhuvneshwar who took his wicket on the last delivery by edging the ball in the safe hands of Rohit Sharma. For South Africa, captain JP Duminy tried to salvage South Africa and provided a support to the team by scoring 55 runs. He found a determined ally in David Miller and together they scored 35 runs for the team but Raina, who was awarded player of the match for scoring quick 43 runs took Miller's wicket and saw him off. The 3rd T20I Player of the Match award goes to @ImRaina after a dynamic batting display and a crucial wicket with the ball! #SAvIND pic.twitter.com/mCjjc1cSOY — ICC (@ICC) February 24, 2018 × Bhuvneshwar Kumar received player of the series for taking 7 wickets with an average of 9.57 in the T-20 series. India's @BhuviOfficial is the Player of the Series after 7 wickets in the series! Congratulations! #SAvIND pic.twitter.com/9j03WJpNpo — ICC (@ICC) February 24, 2018 × Fall of wickets: South Africa: 1-10 (Hendricks), 2-45 (Miller), 3-79 (Klaasen), 4-109 (Duminy), 5-114 (Morris), 6-165 (Jonker) India: 1-14 (Sharma), 2-79 (Raina), 3-111 (Pandey), 4-126 (Dhawan), 5-151 (Dhoni), 6-163 (Pandya), 7-168 (Karthik) Read here what happend in the first innings.

3rd T-20 IND vs SA: India wins by 7 runs, ends South Africa tour by clinching T-20 series

Virat Kohli was seen giving head massage to Indian opener Shikhar Dhawan during the final T-20 match against South Africa. The incident occurred in the last over of the first innings when India was batting as South Africa won the toss and chose to bowl. India did not have the expected start as the innings was summarised with a modest total of 172 runs. Virat is not in the playing XI as he suffered an injury in the last match. Rohit Sharma is leading the squad.

Dhawan lost his wicket after scoring 47 runs and it is expected that Virat might be cooling him down in the decider match as both the teams are eyeing to win the final T-20 to claim the trophy.

The three-match series is level at 1-1 after the Men in Blue won the first T20 in Johannesburg by 28 runs. &nbsp;The Proteas bounced back in Centurion with a six-wicket win.

Let&#39;s hope that the &#39;magical massage&#39; could help Dhawan so that he can perform well in the second innings in terms of fielding.

Injured, world's third fittest, captain Kohli never rests, as he was seen giving head massage to opener Shikhar Dhawan

Virat Kohli was seen giving head massage to Indian opener Shikhar Dhawan during the final T-20 match against South Africa. The incident occurred in the last over of the first innings when India was batting as South Africa won the toss and chose to bowl. India did not have the expected start as the innings was summarised with a modest total of 172 runs. Virat is not in the playing XI as he suffered an injury in the last match. Rohit Sharma is leading the squad. Dhawan lost his wicket after scoring 47 runs and it is expected that Virat might be cooling him down in the decider match as both the teams are eyeing to win the final T-20 to claim the trophy. The three-match series is level at 1-1 after the Men in Blue won the first T20 in Johannesburg by 28 runs. The Proteas bounced back in Centurion with a six-wicket win. Let's hope that the 'magical massage' could help Dhawan so that he can perform well in the second innings in terms of fielding.

Injured Virat Kohli gives head massage to Shikhar Dhawan during final T-20

Suresh Raina marked his <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/comeback-feels-like-playing-first-time-in-indian-jersey-raina-33243">comeback</a> in the ongoing T20 series against South&nbsp;Africa.&nbsp;Recently, India had created history, winning the six-match ODI series by 5-1 on South African soil,&nbsp;Indian team outplayed South African side in all departments,&nbsp;fielding, batting and bowling.&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/comeback-feels-like-playing-first-time-in-indian-jersey-raina-33243">All eyes are on Suresh Raina</a> as he is one of the favourites when it comes toT20 format. In IPL, Raina was retained by Chennai Super Kings for an amount of 11 crores. Raina is desperate to rejoin Indian cricket team ahead&nbsp;of World Cup 2019, and his performance&nbsp;will act as a decider.&nbsp;Raina played his last international T20 match almost a year&nbsp;ago against England at M.Chinnaswamy Stadium, Feb 01, 2017. The veteran has since struggled to get back into the side because of both form and fitness issues.

In a recent interview Indian cricketer, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/comeback-feels-like-playing-first-time-in-indian-jersey-raina-33243">Suresh Raina</a> said, &quot;It is important to win a trophy first and important to go out there as a team mindset. If you see the top order, they are all batting well.

&quot;When you come to the middle order, MS (Dhoni) is there and Manish (Pandey) is also doing a good job,&quot; Raina told reporters ahead of the third T20I match against&nbsp;South Africa.

He added, &quot;So we will see where I can fit in. There are a lot of matches coming up now. Winning games is more important than being which format I am playing or not. Every&nbsp;Indian game is very important for me right now.&quot;

&quot;It is important (to attack). Virat (Kohli) showed that faith in me. In the last two games we have dominated in the first six overs. It is very important to play well in the first six overs,&quot; Raina said.

India&nbsp;is currently levelled at 1-1 in the series with the decider game to be played here on Saturday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/1st-t20-india-vs-south-africa-all-eyes-on-suresh-raina-33237">Raina</a> stressed that the team will look to go aggressive once again in the third match against the hosts to finish the tour on high.

&quot;We have spoken about it in the team meeting as well. When you have been doing well in every game, then you need to finish well too. That is what <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/1st-t20-india-vs-south-africa-all-eyes-on-suresh-raina-33237">Virat i</a>s all about. He never takes things easier, and on top of that you have MS and Ravi (Shastri) bhai who also give their inputs to the players,&quot; he said.

&quot;Virat has led the team well. We did well in Tests and won the ODI series. Dressing room is such that everyone is enjoying this success and the process is such that everyone is giving their inputs to Ravi bhai.&quot;

Taking about the&nbsp;2019 World Cup, he said that there is the long road the team has to cover ahead of the tournament.

&quot;I think it is a long road to the World Cup from here on. First, we have the tri-series in Sri Lanka, then we have the IPL, so we need to keep fresh, keep winning and doing the right processes,&quot; the occasional off-spinner said.

&quot;Closer to the World Cup we will be able to tell where we are going. It is important to stay in present and look to win each and every game,&quot; Raina added.

&nbsp;

Suresh Raina said, 'We have the tri-series in Sri Lanka, then we have the IPL, so we need to keep fresh, keep winning and doing the right processes'

Suresh Raina marked his comeback in the ongoing T20 series against South Africa. Recently, India had created history, winning the six-match ODI series by 5-1 on South African soil, Indian team outplayed South African side in all departments, fielding, batting and bowling. All eyes are on Suresh Raina as he is one of the favourites when it comes toT20 format. In IPL, Raina was retained by Chennai Super Kings for an amount of 11 crores. Raina is desperate to rejoin Indian cricket team ahead of World Cup 2019, and his performance will act as a decider. Raina played his last international T20 match almost a year ago against England at M.Chinnaswamy Stadium, Feb 01, 2017. The veteran has since struggled to get back into the side because of both form and fitness issues. In a recent interview Indian cricketer, Suresh Raina said, "It is important to win a trophy first and important to go out there as a team mindset. If you see the top order, they are all batting well. "When you come to the middle order, MS (Dhoni) is there and Manish (Pandey) is also doing a good job," Raina told reporters ahead of the third T20I match against South Africa. He added, "So we will see where I can fit in. There are a lot of matches coming up now. Winning games is more important than being which format I am playing or not. Every Indian game is very important for me right now." "It is important (to attack). Virat (Kohli) showed that faith in me. In the last two games we have dominated in the first six overs. It is very important to play well in the first six overs," Raina said. India is currently levelled at 1-1 in the series with the decider game to be played here on Saturday. Raina stressed that the team will look to go aggressive once again in the third match against the hosts to finish the tour on high. "We have spoken about it in the team meeting as well. When you have been doing well in every game, then you need to finish well too. That is what Virat is all about. He never takes things easier, and on top of that you have MS and Ravi (Shastri) bhai who also give their inputs to the players," he said. "Virat has led the team well. We did well in Tests and won the ODI series. Dressing room is such that everyone is enjoying this success and the process is such that everyone is giving their inputs to Ravi bhai." Taking about the 2019 World Cup, he said that there is the long road the team has to cover ahead of the tournament. "I think it is a long road to the World Cup from here on. First, we have the tri-series in Sri Lanka, then we have the IPL, so we need to keep fresh, keep winning and doing the right processes," the occasional off-spinner said. "Closer to the World Cup we will be able to tell where we are going. It is important to stay in present and look to win each and every game," Raina added.

'It is a long road to the World Cup,' says Raina

The infamous Amitabh Bachchan has caused a stir on social media following his tweet on Sunday after India&#39;s victory against South Africa.&nbsp;

The veteran actor tweeted &quot;INDIA wins first T20 against SoAf .. brilliant play .. loved the aggression .. and loved the bias commentating .. keep doing that please ..coz&rsquo; every time you do that we WIN handsomely!,&quot; which seemed like he was trying to take a dig at TV commentator Harsha Bhogle again.&nbsp;

Back in 2016, Bachchan had slammed Harsha Bhogle for being biased towards other players and speaking very little of the Indian cricket team. Harsha reportedly lost his job after former captain Dhoni endorsed the tweet, although, he recently got back to doing commentary again during&nbsp;India&rsquo;s tour of the West Indies in 2017.

Back then the Indian superstar had tweeted, &ldquo;With all due respects, it would be really worthy of an Indian commentator to speak more about our players than others all the time.&rdquo; The then captain MS Dhoni agreed with Bachchan and quoted the tweet saying, &ldquo;Nothing to add.&rdquo;

However, his tweet on Sunday did not go&nbsp;down&nbsp;well as social media replied with fury.&nbsp;

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If your indication is towards <a href="https://twitter.com/bhogleharsha?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@bhogleharsha</a> then you need to work on your knowledge of the game.
&mdash; burhan (@burhanqutub) <a href="https://twitter.com/burhanqutub/status/965291984104673280?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
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I think you need to work on your Knowledge and ears????????
&mdash; Jagdish Chande (@jagdishchande) <a href="https://twitter.com/jagdishchande/status/966270452397088773?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2018</a></blockquote>
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This old guy has lost his sense.
&mdash; satya priyadarshi (@S_Priyadarshiii) <a href="https://twitter.com/S_Priyadarshiii/status/965919236437651456?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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As a commentator, one&#39;s job is to explain the game to the viewer from both sides perspective. So, if a team is doing something good on the field, even though it might be the opponent, you&#39;ve to say it as such. I don&#39;t call it a bias. ????
&mdash; Moinak Das (@iMD_84) <a href="https://twitter.com/iMD_84/status/965407445639155712?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Commentary have to be neutral. If you are pointing this to <a href="https://twitter.com/bhogleharsha?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@bhogleharsha</a> you are making a mistake. He is a tremendous commenter with adequate knowledge about the cricket. And most importantly he speaks brutal truth. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvsSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvsSA</a>
&mdash; Nitish&trade; (@nitishtweets) <a href="https://twitter.com/nitishtweets/status/965470120792461312?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Back in 2016, Bachchan had slammed Harsha Bhosle for being biased towards other players and speaking very little of the Indian cricket team which resulted in him being sacked by BCCI

The infamous Amitabh Bachchan has caused a stir on social media following his tweet on Sunday after India's victory against South Africa. The veteran actor tweeted "INDIA wins first T20 against SoAf .. brilliant play .. loved the aggression .. and loved the bias commentating .. keep doing that please ..coz’ every time you do that we WIN handsomely!," which seemed like he was trying to take a dig at TV commentator Harsha Bhogle again. Back in 2016, Bachchan had slammed Harsha Bhogle for being biased towards other players and speaking very little of the Indian cricket team. Harsha reportedly lost his job after former captain Dhoni endorsed the tweet, although, he recently got back to doing commentary again during India’s tour of the West Indies in 2017. Back then the Indian superstar had tweeted, “With all due respects, it would be really worthy of an Indian commentator to speak more about our players than others all the time.” The then captain MS Dhoni agreed with Bachchan and quoted the tweet saying, “Nothing to add.” However, his tweet on Sunday did not go down well as social media replied with fury. If your indication is towards @bhogleharsha then you need to work on your knowledge of the game. — burhan (@burhanqutub) February 18, 2018 × I think you need to work on your Knowledge and ears???????? — Jagdish Chande (@jagdishchande) February 21, 2018 × This old guy has lost his sense. — satya priyadarshi (@S_Priyadarshiii) February 20, 2018 × As a commentator, one's job is to explain the game to the viewer from both sides perspective. So, if a team is doing something good on the field, even though it might be the opponent, you've to say it as such. I don't call it a bias. ???? — Moinak Das (@iMD_84) February 19, 2018 × Commentary have to be neutral. If you are pointing this to @bhogleharsha you are making a mistake. He is a tremendous commenter with adequate knowledge about the cricket. And most importantly he speaks brutal truth. #INDvsSA — Nitish™ (@nitishtweets) February 19, 2018 ×

Amitabh Bachchan takes a dig at Harsha Bhogle...again

&nbsp;

<meta charset="utf-8" />

This is a great time to be an Indian cricket fan. <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-virat-kohli-shardul-thakur-india-south-africa-6th-odi-team-india-indvssa-team-india-live-33105">After beating South Africa</a> in the sixth and final ODI at Centurion, India wrapped up a historic series victory by thumping the hosts 5-1. The manner of India&rsquo;s dominance and South Africa&rsquo;s abject capitulation has left countless cricket fans shocked.

Last night&rsquo;s ODI was a dead rubber. The series was already decided. And yet, people expected the home team to show fight in order to save some face. That was not to be as on a good batting surface, South Africa was bowled out for just 204 and then Team India brushed aside the target with eight wickets in hand and about 18 overs to spare.

Leading the charge was once again <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/best-batsman-in-the-world-now-says-ravi-shastri-for-virat-kohli-33154">captain Virat Kohli</a>, whose magnificent unbeaten 129 made a mockery of the small target. The Indian bowlers, too, were brilliant and young pacer Shradul Thakur&rsquo;s 4-52 helped to restrict the home side to a low score.

Prior to this series, South Africa was ranked the No.1 ODI side in the world. After having been thoroughly dismantled by India, they have slipped to the No.2 slot and given the way their team is looking at the present, things do not look very rosy for the Proteas.

India, meanwhile, will be thrilled. Their top order looks in great touch and their bowling, especially that of the spinners, has been regularly choking the opposition. Just to put things in perspective, the Indian bowlers have managed to clinch 51 wickets in the 6 ODIs as compared to just 23 by the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/virats-desperation-to-win-games-for-his-side-is-massive-33145">South African</a> bowlers.

The spinners, Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal, have captured 33 wickets among them and that speaks volumes of the control and dominance they had over the South African batsmen.

The hero of the series for India, apart from the bowlers, has been Virat Kohli. He has not just led from the front, he has been absolutely peerless in the way he has gone about scoring his runs and making a mockery of the South African bowling. In the 6 ODIs, Kohli has garnered a whopping 558 runs at an astounding average of 186 with 3 hundred and one fifty.

His sheer dominance has been phenomenal to witness and there is no denying that we are seeing a living legend blossom on the front of our eyes. In recent memory, no other batsman has single-handedly decimated an opposition so ruthlessly. Perhaps, Sachin&rsquo;s supremacy over Australia in the 1998 season comes close in mind.

Kohli now has 35 ODI hundreds and where exactly does he end up will be fascinating to watch.

While India will be celebrating this momentous series victory, they need to be wary of a few issues as well. Their middle-order needs some changes and flexibility and has clearly struggled to take the initiative when it mattered. They also need a capable finisher at the end stages as Hardik Pandya hasn&rsquo;t really excelled in that role as yet.

If India can sort this issue out then they can go on to dominate everywhere in the world, especially with the variety they now have in their bowling lineup.

For South Africa, it will be back to the drawing board. Clearly, their new set of young players has not been up to the mark and they are overly reliant on yesteryear stalwarts like AB de Villers, Hashim Amla and Faf du Plessis to bail them out.

If South Africa hopes to regain their No.1 status and be a force in the 2019 World Cup, then the selectors and the team management need to take a long, hard look for the next generation of cricketers who can lead the team.

Cricket-wise, this ODI series was a dampener. The contest, save for the fourth ODI, was thoroughly one-sided and India cruised to victory in all their games. The fans surely would have expected a lot more fight and thrill as the No.1 and No.2 sides of the world went at loggerheads.

Regardless, team India has been really professional and clinical in their ways and can be proud of this historic achievement. Kudos to them for achieving this spectacular ODI series victory against South Africa on their own turf &ndash; it&rsquo;s a feat that no other visiting Indian team has achieved before.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

&nbsp;

The spinners, Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal, have captured 33 wickets among them and that speaks volumes of the control and dominance they had over the South African batsmen

This is a great time to be an Indian cricket fan. After beating South Africa in the sixth and final ODI at Centurion, India wrapped up a historic series victory by thumping the hosts 5-1. The manner of India’s dominance and South Africa’s abject capitulation has left countless cricket fans shocked. Last night’s ODI was a dead rubber. The series was already decided. And yet, people expected the home team to show fight in order to save some face. That was not to be as on a good batting surface, South Africa was bowled out for just 204 and then Team India brushed aside the target with eight wickets in hand and about 18 overs to spare. Leading the charge was once again captain Virat Kohli, whose magnificent unbeaten 129 made a mockery of the small target. The Indian bowlers, too, were brilliant and young pacer Shradul Thakur’s 4-52 helped to restrict the home side to a low score. Prior to this series, South Africa was ranked the No.1 ODI side in the world. After having been thoroughly dismantled by India, they have slipped to the No.2 slot and given the way their team is looking at the present, things do not look very rosy for the Proteas. India, meanwhile, will be thrilled. Their top order looks in great touch and their bowling, especially that of the spinners, has been regularly choking the opposition. Just to put things in perspective, the Indian bowlers have managed to clinch 51 wickets in the 6 ODIs as compared to just 23 by the South African bowlers. The spinners, Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal, have captured 33 wickets among them and that speaks volumes of the control and dominance they had over the South African batsmen. The hero of the series for India, apart from the bowlers, has been Virat Kohli. He has not just led from the front, he has been absolutely peerless in the way he has gone about scoring his runs and making a mockery of the South African bowling. In the 6 ODIs, Kohli has garnered a whopping 558 runs at an astounding average of 186 with 3 hundred and one fifty. His sheer dominance has been phenomenal to witness and there is no denying that we are seeing a living legend blossom on the front of our eyes. In recent memory, no other batsman has single-handedly decimated an opposition so ruthlessly. Perhaps, Sachin’s supremacy over Australia in the 1998 season comes close in mind. Kohli now has 35 ODI hundreds and where exactly does he end up will be fascinating to watch. While India will be celebrating this momentous series victory, they need to be wary of a few issues as well. Their middle-order needs some changes and flexibility and has clearly struggled to take the initiative when it mattered. They also need a capable finisher at the end stages as Hardik Pandya hasn’t really excelled in that role as yet. If India can sort this issue out then they can go on to dominate everywhere in the world, especially with the variety they now have in their bowling lineup. For South Africa, it will be back to the drawing board. Clearly, their new set of young players has not been up to the mark and they are overly reliant on yesteryear stalwarts like AB de Villers, Hashim Amla and Faf du Plessis to bail them out. If South Africa hopes to regain their No.1 status and be a force in the 2019 World Cup, then the selectors and the team management need to take a long, hard look for the next generation of cricketers who can lead the team. Cricket-wise, this ODI series was a dampener. The contest, save for the fourth ODI, was thoroughly one-sided and India cruised to victory in all their games. The fans surely would have expected a lot more fight and thrill as the No.1 and No.2 sides of the world went at loggerheads. Regardless, team India has been really professional and clinical in their ways and can be proud of this historic achievement. Kudos to them for achieving this spectacular ODI series victory against South Africa on their own turf – it’s a feat that no other visiting Indian team has achieved before. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: Magnificent Kohli was crucial in India's win over South Africa

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-1st-t-20-ind-vs-sa-south-africa-india-virat-kohli-suresh-raina-live-score-33260">India has won the first T20</a> International against South Africa at the Wanderers, Johannesburg by 28 runs to take 1-0 series lead in the&nbsp;in the first of the three-match series.

Earlier, South Africa won the toss and opted to bowl.

The same old problems haunted the South African side as it suffered from inconsistency, poor fielding, bad shot selection and loose bowling which put them on the back foot in the ODI series.

For South Africa, Reeza Hendricks contributed 70 crucial runs and found a determined ally in Behardien but both of them could not stand the attacking bowling&nbsp;of Indian bowlers.

Bhuvneshwar scalped 5 wickets including that of Reeza Hendricks, JP Duminy, Klaasen in his career-best bowling figure.&nbsp;

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4-0-24-5. Career-best bowling figures from <a href="https://twitter.com/BhuviOfficial?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BhuviOfficial</a>. He also becomes the second Indian to pick up a five-fer in a T20I.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/lvudJkho3A">pic.twitter.com/lvudJkho3A</a>
&mdash; BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/965252846051524609?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> win the 1st T20I by 28 runs. 
 
1-0 up in the three-match T20I series.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/60uU74zs8w">pic.twitter.com/60uU74zs8w</a>
&mdash; BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/965254019563376641?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
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For India, though opener Rohit Sharma lost his wicket early but displayed some mesmerising shots and scored 21 runs off 9 balls before&nbsp;leaving the ground.

In the fourth over, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/comeback-feels-like-playing-first-time-in-indian-jersey-raina-33243">Suresh Raina </a>lost his wicket as he hit the ball with the top edge and the ball went straight&nbsp;up in the air and landed in the hands of Junior Dala but<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/1st-t20-india-vs-south-africa-all-eyes-on-suresh-raina-33237">&nbsp;Raina </a>marked his presence today by playing some lovely shots. He played with a strike rate of 214.29.

Shikhar Dhawan played brilliantly and scored 72 runs to cruise his team to a mammoth score of 203.

Though, Virat got an early lifeline when his catch was dropped but eventually lost his wicket after scoring 26 runs.

Manish Pandey (29) and Hardik Pandya (13) remained unbeaten.

&nbsp;

Bhuvneshwar scalped 5 wickets including that of Reeza Hendricks, JP Duminy, Klaasen in his career-best bowling figure

India has won the first T20 International against South Africa at the Wanderers, Johannesburg by 28 runs to take 1-0 series lead in the in the first of the three-match series. Earlier, South Africa won the toss and opted to bowl. The same old problems haunted the South African side as it suffered from inconsistency, poor fielding, bad shot selection and loose bowling which put them on the back foot in the ODI series. For South Africa, Reeza Hendricks contributed 70 crucial runs and found a determined ally in Behardien but both of them could not stand the attacking bowling of Indian bowlers. Bhuvneshwar scalped 5 wickets including that of Reeza Hendricks, JP Duminy, Klaasen in his career-best bowling figure. 4-0-24-5. Career-best bowling figures from @BhuviOfficial. He also becomes the second Indian to pick up a five-fer in a T20I.#SAvIND pic.twitter.com/lvudJkho3A — BCCI (@BCCI) February 18, 2018 × #TeamIndia win the 1st T20I by 28 runs. 1-0 up in the three-match T20I series.#SAvIND pic.twitter.com/60uU74zs8w — BCCI (@BCCI) February 18, 2018 × For India, though opener Rohit Sharma lost his wicket early but displayed some mesmerising shots and scored 21 runs off 9 balls before leaving the ground. In the fourth over, Suresh Raina lost his wicket as he hit the ball with the top edge and the ball went straight up in the air and landed in the hands of Junior Dala but Raina marked his presence today by playing some lovely shots. He played with a strike rate of 214.29. Shikhar Dhawan played brilliantly and scored 72 runs to cruise his team to a mammoth score of 203. Though, Virat got an early lifeline when his catch was dropped but eventually lost his wicket after scoring 26 runs. Manish Pandey (29) and Hardik Pandya (13) remained unbeaten.

1st T20: Bhuvneshwar Kumar's five-wicket haul helps India to take 1-0 series lead

<big>WION&#39;s pick of the week:</big>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-pyeongchang-winter-robots-olympics-33255">Watch: Pyeongchang winter robots Olympics</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/virat-kohli-has-the-potential-to-break-sachins-records-695">Virat &amp; Sachin @29: Who is the greatest?</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-the-reasons-behind-indias-historic-victory-692">Reasons behind India&#39;s historic victory against South Africa</a>

&nbsp;

<big>Winter Olympics</big>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/russian-olympic-curler-involved-in-doping-case-sources-33276">Russian Olympic curler involved in doping case: sources</a><big> </big>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/bach-for-nobel-peace-prize-no-formal-discussion-says-ioc-32739">Bach for Nobel peace prize? No &#39;formal discussion&#39; says IOC</a>

&nbsp;

<big>Cricket</big>

&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-virat-kohli-shardul-thakur-india-south-africa-6th-odi-team-india-indvssa-team-india-live-33105">Virat</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-virat-kohli-shardul-thakur-india-south-africa-6th-odi-team-india-indvssa-team-india-live-33105"> Kohli slams </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-virat-kohli-shardul-thakur-india-south-africa-6th-odi-team-india-indvssa-team-india-live-33105">century,</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-virat-kohli-shardul-thakur-india-south-africa-6th-odi-team-india-indvssa-team-india-live-33105"> inspires team to historic victory</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/new-zealand-advance-to-final-despite-two-run-loss-to-england-33251">New Zealand advance to final despite two-run loss to England</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/shane-warne-marks-royal-return-as-rajasthans-mentor-32724">IPL: Shane Warne marks royal return as Rajasthan&#39;s mentor</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/virats-desperation-to-win-games-for-his-side-is-massive-33145">&#39;Virat&#39;s desperation to win games for his side is massive,&#39; says Aiden Markram</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-gives-credit-to-wife-anushka-for-his-performance-33118">Virat Kohli gives credit to wife Anushka for his performance</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/best-batsman-in-the-world-now-says-ravi-shastri-for-virat-kohli-33154">&#39;Best batsman in the world now,&#39; says Ravi Shastri for Virat Kohli</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/comeback-feels-like-playing-first-time-in-indian-jersey-raina-33243">Comeback feels like playing first time in Indian jersey: Raina</a>

&nbsp;

<big>Football</big>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/prankster-hands-conte-signed-mourinho-shirt-33007">Prankster hands Conte signed Mourinho shirt</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/wayne-rooney-welcomes-his-fourth-son-33022">Wayne Rooney says &#39;5-a-side team complete,&#39; after birth of </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/wayne-rooney-welcomes-his-fourth-son-33022">fourth</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/wayne-rooney-welcomes-his-fourth-son-33022"> son</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/neymars-father-defends-his-son-refers-critics-as-vultures-33041">Neymar&#39;s father defends son, refers critics as &#39;vultures&#39;</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/marco-asensio-strikes-twice-to-help-real-madrid-win-eight-goal-thriller-33304">Marco Asensio strikes twice to help Real Madrid win eight-goal thriller</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/laliga-gameiro-costa-on-target-as-atletico-beat-bilbao-33293">LaLiga: Gameiro, Costa on target as Atletico beat Bilbao</a>

&nbsp;

<big>Tennis:</big>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/roger-federer-accends-number-one-rank-33132">Roger Federer becomes </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/roger-federer-accends-number-one-rank-33132">oldest</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/roger-federer-accends-number-one-rank-33132"> world No 1 in tennis history</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/world-number-one-roger-federer-claims-rotterdam-open-33291">World number one Roger Federer claims Rotterdam Open</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/kvitova-takes-qatar-title-to-clinch-top-10-return-33299">Kvitova takes Qatar title to clinch top 10 return</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ultimate-goal-is-to-follow-federers-footsteps-marin-cilic-33167">Ultimate goal is to follow Federer&#39;s footsteps: Marin Cilic</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/rochdale-revival-stuns-spurs-as-they-face-uncertain-cup-fate-33295">Rochdale&#39;s revival stuns Spurs as they face uncertain Cup fate</a>

&nbsp;

<big>Others:</big>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-likely-to-play-world-cup-in-rival-india-fih-33099">Pakistan to play Hockey World Cup in rival India confirms FIH</a>

&nbsp;

Weekly compilation of sports and other related news (February 12 to February 18)

WION's pick of the week: Watch: Pyeongchang winter robots Olympics Virat & Sachin @29: Who is the greatest? Reasons behind India's historic victory against South Africa Winter Olympics Russian Olympic curler involved in doping case: sources Bach for Nobel peace prize? No 'formal discussion' says IOC Cricket Virat Kohli slams century, inspires team to historic victory New Zealand advance to final despite two-run loss to England IPL: Shane Warne marks royal return as Rajasthan's mentor 'Virat's desperation to win games for his side is massive,' says Aiden Markram Virat Kohli gives credit to wife Anushka for his performance 'Best batsman in the world now,' says Ravi Shastri for Virat Kohli Comeback feels like playing first time in Indian jersey: Raina Football Prankster hands Conte signed Mourinho shirt Wayne Rooney says '5-a-side team complete,' after birth of fourth son Neymar's father defends son, refers critics as 'vultures' Marco Asensio strikes twice to help Real Madrid win eight-goal thriller LaLiga: Gameiro, Costa on target as Atletico beat Bilbao Tennis: Roger Federer becomes oldest world No 1 in tennis history World number one Roger Federer claims Rotterdam Open Kvitova takes Qatar title to clinch top 10 return Ultimate goal is to follow Federer's footsteps: Marin Cilic Rochdale's revival stuns Spurs as they face uncertain Cup fate Others: Pakistan to play Hockey World Cup in rival India confirms FIH

WION Sports News: Top sports results this week

New Zealand advanced to the final of the trans-Tasman Twenty20 triangular series against Australia despite suffering a two-run loss to England at Seddon Park in Hamilton on Sunday.

New Zealand, who beat England by 12 runs in their previous match, advanced to the February&nbsp;21 final on the net run rate. They had only needed to score 175 to have the superior run rate.

The hosts ended on 192 for four after England had posted 194 for seven courtesy of a 93-run partnership between captain Eoin Morgan, who finished 80 not out, and Dawid Malan (53).

Despite advancing to the final, Kane Williamson&#39;s side should have won the game comfortably after Colin Munro (57) and Martin Guptill (62) blasted an impressive 78-run opening partnership in 6.3 overs.

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Big finish! 
De Grandhomme can&#39;t find the fence needing 4 off the final ball and we come up 3 runs short of the 195 target. 
But we are still through to the FINAL with a superior net run-rate ????&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TriSeries?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TriSeries</a> ????????v???????? <a href="https://t.co/HdiTAhN5Lf">pic.twitter.com/HdiTAhN5Lf</a>
&mdash; BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) <a href="https://twitter.com/BLACKCAPS/status/965154312207740931?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The 30-year-old Munro smashed an 18-ball half-century, which included seven sixes, before England&#39;s spinners Adil Rashid, who dismissed Munro on his third delivery, and Liam Dawson choked off New Zealand&#39;s scoring.

Guptill and Mark Chapman, however, saw off the threat of the two main spinners to add 64 runs in 5.2 overs and ensured New Zealand were within sight of the final before Guptill was bowled by Malan with his side 164 for three.

Chapman, who was bowled by Chris Jordan in the penultimate over for 32 but then recalled as the bowler had overstepped, and Colin de Grandhomme, however, were unable to score the 12 runs needed from the final over from Tom Curran.

Morgan, who had missed England&#39;s last two games in the series due to a groin strain, proved he had not lost any form while sitting on the sidelines with a composed inning.

The left-hander was on 37 when Malan departed with the score on 117 for three and then scored 40 of his side&#39;s next 48 runs but was starved of the strike in the final two overs.

Australia won all four of their games and are favourites for Wednesday&#39;s final at Eden Park in Auckland.

&nbsp;

New Zealand advanced to the February 21 final on the net run rate. They had only needed to score 175 to have the superior run rate

New Zealand advanced to the final of the trans-Tasman Twenty20 triangular series against Australia despite suffering a two-run loss to England at Seddon Park in Hamilton on Sunday. New Zealand, who beat England by 12 runs in their previous match, advanced to the February 21 final on the net run rate. They had only needed to score 175 to have the superior run rate. The hosts ended on 192 for four after England had posted 194 for seven courtesy of a 93-run partnership between captain Eoin Morgan, who finished 80 not out, and Dawid Malan (53). Despite advancing to the final, Kane Williamson's side should have won the game comfortably after Colin Munro (57) and Martin Guptill (62) blasted an impressive 78-run opening partnership in 6.3 overs. Big finish! De Grandhomme can't find the fence needing 4 off the final ball and we come up 3 runs short of the 195 target. But we are still through to the FINAL with a superior net run-rate ???? #TriSeries ????????v???????? pic.twitter.com/HdiTAhN5Lf — BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) February 18, 2018 × The 30-year-old Munro smashed an 18-ball half-century, which included seven sixes, before England's spinners Adil Rashid, who dismissed Munro on his third delivery, and Liam Dawson choked off New Zealand's scoring. Guptill and Mark Chapman, however, saw off the threat of the two main spinners to add 64 runs in 5.2 overs and ensured New Zealand were within sight of the final before Guptill was bowled by Malan with his side 164 for three. Chapman, who was bowled by Chris Jordan in the penultimate over for 32 but then recalled as the bowler had overstepped, and Colin de Grandhomme, however, were unable to score the 12 runs needed from the final over from Tom Curran. Morgan, who had missed England's last two games in the series due to a groin strain, proved he had not lost any form while sitting on the sidelines with a composed inning. The left-hander was on 37 when Malan departed with the score on 117 for three and then scored 40 of his side's next 48 runs but was starved of the strike in the final two overs. Australia won all four of their games and are favourites for Wednesday's final at Eden Park in Auckland.

New Zealand advance to final despite two-run loss to England

India&#39;s tour to South Africa has entered in the final phase where both the teams will meet for a three-match <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/1st-t20-india-vs-south-africa-all-eyes-on-suresh-raina-33237">T20 International</a> series which will start from today at the Wanderers, Johannesburg.

For India, the major change is that they have called back Suresh Raina.

Raina played his last international T20 match on February 01, 2017 against England at Chinnaswamy Stadium.

On his comeback, Raina told BCCI TV, &quot;I have worked really hard for two years and coming to the Indian team feels like I am playing first time in India jersey&quot;

&quot;I was working hard for my game and waiting for the chance to come and Ravi Bhai (head coach Ravi Shastri) really supported me a lot and also Virat.&quot;

&quot;I am very happy about it, I have worked really hard, played each and every game in domestic cricket,&quot; he further added.

Raina is desperate to rejoin Indian cricket team ahead of World Cup 2019, and his performance in the T20 against South Africa will act as a decider.

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How&#39;s that for a <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRaina?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImRaina</a> flourish! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/O0KJR4ldww">pic.twitter.com/O0KJR4ldww</a>
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&quot;Whenever you play for your country, you desire to perform well. I am very blessed to represent my country, Raina told to a BCCI correspondent.

Raina mentioned &quot;I am a very positive person&quot; and said, &quot;Get back to my Indian jersey and win games for my country.&quot;

Surest Raina praised Indian skipper Virat Kohli and said, &quot;Virat has shown immense support to each and every player.&quot;

&quot;Virat is a quality leader and gives importance to each and every person,&quot; he added.

Raina also emphasised the atmosphere of the dressing room and spoke about team&#39;s bonding. He said, &quot;Indian team is happy with each other&#39;s success. I loved the dressing room atmosphere.&quot;

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Snapshots from <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a>&#39;s stint at the nets ahead of the 1st T20I at The Wanderers <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/PmeCwRjvFs">pic.twitter.com/PmeCwRjvFs</a>
&mdash; BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/964867172295159808?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Suresh Raina remained out of India cricket team for more than a year and worked hard to register a comeback which most of the players fail to do.

He summarised his chat with the BCCI correspondent by saying, &quot;Setbacks give lessons and make you tough.&quot;

&nbsp;

Suresh Raina remained out of Indian cricket team for more than a year and worked hard for the comeback

India's tour to South Africa has entered in the final phase where both the teams will meet for a three-match T20 International series which will start from today at the Wanderers, Johannesburg. For India, the major change is that they have called back Suresh Raina. Raina played his last international T20 match on February 01, 2017 against England at Chinnaswamy Stadium. On his comeback, Raina told BCCI TV, "I have worked really hard for two years and coming to the Indian team feels like I am playing first time in India jersey" "I was working hard for my game and waiting for the chance to come and Ravi Bhai (head coach Ravi Shastri) really supported me a lot and also Virat." "I am very happy about it, I have worked really hard, played each and every game in domestic cricket," he further added. Raina is desperate to rejoin Indian cricket team ahead of World Cup 2019, and his performance in the T20 against South Africa will act as a decider. How's that for a @ImRaina flourish! #TeamIndia #SAvIND pic.twitter.com/O0KJR4ldww — BCCI (@BCCI) February 17, 2018 × "Whenever you play for your country, you desire to perform well. I am very blessed to represent my country, Raina told to a BCCI correspondent. Raina mentioned "I am a very positive person" and said, "Get back to my Indian jersey and win games for my country." Surest Raina praised Indian skipper Virat Kohli and said, "Virat has shown immense support to each and every player." "Virat is a quality leader and gives importance to each and every person," he added. Raina also emphasised the atmosphere of the dressing room and spoke about team's bonding. He said, "Indian team is happy with each other's success. I loved the dressing room atmosphere." Snapshots from #TeamIndia's stint at the nets ahead of the 1st T20I at The Wanderers #SAvIND pic.twitter.com/PmeCwRjvFs — BCCI (@BCCI) February 17, 2018 × Suresh Raina remained out of India cricket team for more than a year and worked hard to register a comeback which most of the players fail to do. He summarised his chat with the BCCI correspondent by saying, "Setbacks give lessons and make you tough."

Comeback feels like playing first time in Indian jersey: Raina

India&#39;s tour to South Africa has entered in the final phase where both the teams will meet for a three-match T20 International series which will start from&nbsp;today at the Wanderers, Johannesburg.

Recently, India had created history, winning the six-match ODI series by 5-1 on South African soil,&nbsp;Indian team outplayed South African side in all departments,&nbsp;fielding, batting and bowling.

Virat led team remained very calm and composed throughout the ODI series and perform brilliantly.

Earlier, South Africa started the most awaited tour by winning the Test series by 2-1 but later, in the limited overs format, they lost the momentum.

Though, they have suffered a thrashing ODI&nbsp;defeat but still have the potential to outplay India in the T20 series.

Squad (TBC)

India: &nbsp;Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, Virat Kohli(c), Suresh Raina, Manish Pandey, MS Dhoni(wk), Hardik Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Lokesh Rahul, Jaydev Unadkat, Dinesh Karthik, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur&nbsp;

South Africa: Reeza Hendricks, JJ Smuts, AB de Villiers, JP Duminy(c), David Miller, Heinrich Klaasen(wk), Chris Morris, Andile Phehlukwayo, Junior Dala, Dane Paterson, Aaron Phangiso, Farhaan Behardien, Christiaan Jonker, Tabraiz Shamsi

JP Duminy will lead the Proteas and has made few changes in the squad. The T20 line up looks entirely different from what South Africa had in ODI.

As South Africa has to host Australia for a four-Test match series from February 22, hence, the bigs guns are resting for the T20 series.

For India, the major change is that they have called back Suresh Raina. Raina played his last international T20 match almost a year&nbsp;ago against England at M.Chinnaswamy Stadium, Feb 01, 2017.

All eyes are on Suresh Raina as he is one of the favourites when it comes toT20 format. In IPL, Raina was retained by Chennai Super Kings for an amount of 11 crores.

Raina is desperate to rejoin Indian cricket team ahead&nbsp;of World Cup 2019, and his performance&nbsp;will act as a decider.

&nbsp;

Raina played his last international T20 match a year ago against England at M.Chinnaswamy Stadium on February 01, 2017

India's tour to South Africa has entered in the final phase where both the teams will meet for a three-match T20 International series which will start from today at the Wanderers, Johannesburg. Recently, India had created history, winning the six-match ODI series by 5-1 on South African soil, Indian team outplayed South African side in all departments, fielding, batting and bowling. Virat led team remained very calm and composed throughout the ODI series and perform brilliantly. Earlier, South Africa started the most awaited tour by winning the Test series by 2-1 but later, in the limited overs format, they lost the momentum. Though, they have suffered a thrashing ODI defeat but still have the potential to outplay India in the T20 series. Squad (TBC) India: Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, Virat Kohli(c), Suresh Raina, Manish Pandey, MS Dhoni(wk), Hardik Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Lokesh Rahul, Jaydev Unadkat, Dinesh Karthik, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur South Africa: Reeza Hendricks, JJ Smuts, AB de Villiers, JP Duminy(c), David Miller, Heinrich Klaasen(wk), Chris Morris, Andile Phehlukwayo, Junior Dala, Dane Paterson, Aaron Phangiso, Farhaan Behardien, Christiaan Jonker, Tabraiz Shamsi JP Duminy will lead the Proteas and has made few changes in the squad. The T20 line up looks entirely different from what South Africa had in ODI. As South Africa has to host Australia for a four-Test match series from February 22, hence, the bigs guns are resting for the T20 series. For India, the major change is that they have called back Suresh Raina. Raina played his last international T20 match almost a year ago against England at M.Chinnaswamy Stadium, Feb 01, 2017. All eyes are on Suresh Raina as he is one of the favourites when it comes toT20 format. In IPL, Raina was retained by Chennai Super Kings for an amount of 11 crores. Raina is desperate to rejoin Indian cricket team ahead of World Cup 2019, and his performance will act as a decider.

1st T20 India vs South Africa: All eyes on Suresh Raina

South Africa won the toss and opted to bowl&nbsp;in the first&nbsp;T20 match against India&nbsp;at the Wanderers, Johannesburg.

An absolute splendid start for team India was registered by the batsmen, though opener Rohit Sharma lost his wicket early but displayed some mesmerising shots and scored 21 runs off 9 balls before&nbsp;leaving the ground.

In the fourth over, Suresh Raina lost his wicket as he hit the ball with the top edge and the ball went straight&nbsp;up in the air and landed in the hands of Junior Dala but&nbsp;Raina marked his presence today by playing some lovely shots. He played with a strike rate of 214.29.

Shikhar Dhawan played brilliantly and scored 72 runs to cruise his team to a mammoth score of 2013.

Though, Virat got an early lifeline when his catch was dropped but eventually lost his wicket after scoring 26 runs.

Manish Pandey (29) and Hardik Pandya (13) remained unbeaten.

Recently, India had created history, winning the six-match ODI series by 5-1 on South African soil,&nbsp;Indian team outplayed South African side in all departments,&nbsp;fielding, batting and bowling.

Virat led team remained very calm and composed throughout the ODI series and perform brilliantly.

Earlier, South Africa started the most awaited tour by winning the Test series by 2-1 but later, in the limited overs format, they lost the momentum.

Though, they have suffered a thrashing ODI&nbsp;defeat but still have the potential to outplay India in the T20 series.

Playing XI:

South Africa:&nbsp;JJ Smuts, Reeza Hendricks, Jean-Paul Duminy(c), David Miller, Farhaan Behardien, Heinrich Klaasen(w), Chris Morris, Andile Phehlukwayo, Dane Paterson, Junior Dala, Tabraiz Shamsi

India:&nbsp;Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, Virat Kohli(c), Suresh Raina, Manish Pandey, Hardik Pandya, MS Dhoni(w), Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jaydev Unadkat, Yuzvendra Chahal, Jasprit Bumrah

&nbsp;

Shikhar Dhawan showcased cricketing brilliance and knocked 72 runs off 39 balls

South Africa won the toss and opted to bowl in the first T20 match against India at the Wanderers, Johannesburg. An absolute splendid start for team India was registered by the batsmen, though opener Rohit Sharma lost his wicket early but displayed some mesmerising shots and scored 21 runs off 9 balls before leaving the ground. In the fourth over, Suresh Raina lost his wicket as he hit the ball with the top edge and the ball went straight up in the air and landed in the hands of Junior Dala but Raina marked his presence today by playing some lovely shots. He played with a strike rate of 214.29. Shikhar Dhawan played brilliantly and scored 72 runs to cruise his team to a mammoth score of 2013. Though, Virat got an early lifeline when his catch was dropped but eventually lost his wicket after scoring 26 runs. Manish Pandey (29) and Hardik Pandya (13) remained unbeaten. Recently, India had created history, winning the six-match ODI series by 5-1 on South African soil, Indian team outplayed South African side in all departments, fielding, batting and bowling. Virat led team remained very calm and composed throughout the ODI series and perform brilliantly. Earlier, South Africa started the most awaited tour by winning the Test series by 2-1 but later, in the limited overs format, they lost the momentum. Though, they have suffered a thrashing ODI defeat but still have the potential to outplay India in the T20 series. Playing XI: South Africa: JJ Smuts, Reeza Hendricks, Jean-Paul Duminy(c), David Miller, Farhaan Behardien, Heinrich Klaasen(w), Chris Morris, Andile Phehlukwayo, Dane Paterson, Junior Dala, Tabraiz Shamsi India: Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, Virat Kohli(c), Suresh Raina, Manish Pandey, Hardik Pandya, MS Dhoni(w), Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jaydev Unadkat, Yuzvendra Chahal, Jasprit Bumrah

1st T20 IND vs SA: Dhawan shines, India set 203 as target

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-virat-kohli-shardul-thakur-india-south-africa-6th-odi-team-india-indvssa-team-india-live-33105">India won the 6th ODI</a> as well as the series against South Africa at SuperSport Park, Centurion on Friday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/virats-desperation-to-win-games-for-his-side-is-massive-33145">Indian team outplayed South African</a> side in all departments, fielding, batting and bowling.

Virat led team remained very calm and composed throughout the ODI series and perform brilliantly.

The credit goes to team management and support staff as well.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-the-reasons-behind-indias-historic-victory-692">In pics: Reasons behind India&#39;s historic victory against South Africa</a>

Recently, Indian head coach Ravi Shastri praised Virat Kohli after winning the sixth and final ODI match against the Proteas.

He described Kohli as the &quot;best batsman in the world&quot; in a post-match&nbsp;interview.

He said, &quot;Well, I&#39;m the head coach of the Indian team and I see him batting like this and I&#39;ve seen him bat across all conditions, in all formats and it&#39;s not just averages, it&#39;s the way you get runs, when you get it and the impact those runs have on what the team does. I would safely say he&#39;s the best batsman in the world now.&quot;

Team India will forward to keep the winning momentum in the upcoming T20I series as well which will start from February 18th.

&nbsp;

Indian head coach Ravi Shastri praised Virat Kohli after winning the sixth and final ODI match against the Proteas and described Kohli as the best batsman in the world

India won the 6th ODI as well as the series against South Africa at SuperSport Park, Centurion on Friday. Indian team outplayed South African side in all departments, fielding, batting and bowling. Virat led team remained very calm and composed throughout the ODI series and perform brilliantly. The credit goes to team management and support staff as well. In pics: Reasons behind India's historic victory against South Africa Recently, Indian head coach Ravi Shastri praised Virat Kohli after winning the sixth and final ODI match against the Proteas. He described Kohli as the "best batsman in the world" in a post-match interview. He said, "Well, I'm the head coach of the Indian team and I see him batting like this and I've seen him bat across all conditions, in all formats and it's not just averages, it's the way you get runs, when you get it and the impact those runs have on what the team does. I would safely say he's the best batsman in the world now." Team India will forward to keep the winning momentum in the upcoming T20I series as well which will start from February 18th.

'Best batsman in the world now,' says Ravi Shastri for Virat Kohli

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-the-reasons-behind-indias-historic-victory-692">India won the 6th ODI</a> as well as the series against South Africa at SuperSport Park, Centurion on Friday.

Virat Kohli slammed 35th century to lead the team to a historic win on the South African soil.

For his splendid performance throughout the series captain, Kohli awarded Man of the series and also Man of the match for an amazing knock in the final ODI.

A quite brilliant unbeaten <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/best-batsman-in-the-world-now-says-ravi-shastri-for-virat-kohli-33154">129 from skipper Virat Kohli</a> helped India cruise to an eight-wicket win.

But for South Africa captain Aiden Markram, leading his side for the first time in a series, it was a chastening experience - and he admitted that his players have plenty of learning to do ahead of the World Cup next year in England.

After losing the sixth and final ODI match he said in the post-match&nbsp;interview that the experience has been &#39;eye-opening&#39; he further added, &quot;The confidence of the side has definitely taken a knock, yes. It&#39;s never nice to lose 5-1 but we have learned lessons.&quot;

&quot;A lot of those lessons have been taught to us by how the Indians have constructed their games.&quot;

&quot;And then their bowlers, they control that middle period really well, they&#39;ve got two quality spinners and they strike up front with the new ball,&quot; South African skipper said while praising Indian bowling side.

He amplified the performance of Indian skipper <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-gives-credit-to-wife-anushka-for-his-performance-33118">Virat Kohli</a> and said, &quot;Virat&#39;s desperation to win games for his side is massive and that&#39;s why he condones (conducts) himself like he does and it&#39;s all from a competitive point of view, it&#39;s nothing malicious.

So there&#39;s a lot of things I can learn from him, there&#39;s a lot of things I can learn from their team as a whole and there&#39;s a lot of things I can learn from us as a whole, the Proteas as a whole. So taking&nbsp;little pieces here and there, from various players is helping.&quot;

South Africa captain Aiden Markram admitted that his players have plenty of learning to do ahead of the World Cup next year in England

India won the 6th ODI as well as the series against South Africa at SuperSport Park, Centurion on Friday. Virat Kohli slammed 35th century to lead the team to a historic win on the South African soil. For his splendid performance throughout the series captain, Kohli awarded Man of the series and also Man of the match for an amazing knock in the final ODI. A quite brilliant unbeaten 129 from skipper Virat Kohli helped India cruise to an eight-wicket win. But for South Africa captain Aiden Markram, leading his side for the first time in a series, it was a chastening experience - and he admitted that his players have plenty of learning to do ahead of the World Cup next year in England. After losing the sixth and final ODI match he said in the post-match interview that the experience has been 'eye-opening' he further added, "The confidence of the side has definitely taken a knock, yes. It's never nice to lose 5-1 but we have learned lessons." "A lot of those lessons have been taught to us by how the Indians have constructed their games." "And then their bowlers, they control that middle period really well, they've got two quality spinners and they strike up front with the new ball," South African skipper said while praising Indian bowling side. He amplified the performance of Indian skipper Virat Kohli and said, "Virat's desperation to win games for his side is massive and that's why he condones (conducts) himself like he does and it's all from a competitive point of view, it's nothing malicious. So there's a lot of things I can learn from him, there's a lot of things I can learn from their team as a whole and there's a lot of things I can learn from us as a whole, the Proteas as a whole. So taking little pieces here and there, from various players is helping."

'Virat's desperation to win games for his side is massive,' says Aiden Markram

Veteran Mithali Raj and opener Smriti Mandhana hit stylish half-centuries as India cruised to a comfortable nine-wicket victory over South Africa in the second women&#39;s T20 International.

The Harmanpreet Kaur-led team is now 2-0 up in the five-match series, having won the opening encounter by seven wickets.

Chasing a modest 143, India cantered to victory in 19.1 overs as Mandhana hit a blistering 57 off 42 balls while Raj anchored the innings to perfection with her second successive half-century, remaining unbeaten on 76 off 61 balls.

Raj awarded &#39;Player of the Match&#39; once again. &quot;The wicket was on the slower side and it wouldn&#39;t have been easy for a new batter to come in and start hitting straightaway. The century partnership (with Mandhana) was really important,&quot; Raj said at the post-match presentation ceremony.

Her skipper Harmanpreet was equally ecstatic with the senior pro&#39;s performance. &quot;We had discussed that if a player gets settled, she would have to bat through. It was a fantastic effort from Mithali di as she performed the role of a senior player,&quot; she said.

Mandhana struck four boundaries and three sixes --- one off leg-spinner Dane van Niekerk and another two off Raisibe Ntozakhe. It wasn&#39;t exactly a flawless inning as she was dropped twice during her second half-century in the shortest format.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
2nd T20I: <a href="https://twitter.com/mandhana_smriti?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mandhana_smriti</a> brings up her half-century with a six. Ind - 91/0 after 12 overs <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/waJtIh9zXv">pic.twitter.com/waJtIh9zXv</a>
&mdash; BCCI Women (@BCCIWomen) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCIWomen/status/964491705859956737?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">&times;</a></div>

Along with one day skipper Raj, Mandhana added 106 runs for the opening stand in 14.2 overs.

Mandhana, who scored a century and a half-century in India&#39;s ODI series win, was in her element, attacking the Proteas bowling from the word go and reaching her half-century off only 37 balls.

Raj, on the other hand, completed her 12th T20 half-century off 48 deliveries. She waited for the loose deliveries to hit her customary cover drives and also rotated the strike well.

Only after Mandhana was adjudged leg before, she took charge with 23 needed off the last three overs.

She targeted medium pacer Ayabonga Khaka, bowling the 18th over, hitting her for two boundaries to ease off any pressure that was there. 
In all, Raj hit eight boundaries and the last was a thump over mid-wicket off Shabnim Ismail, which brought about India&#39;s victory.

Earlier, leg-spinner Poonam Yadav (2/18 in 4 overs) and off-spinner Anuja Patil (2/37 in 4 overs) shared a bulk of the spoils as the Proteas women could never up to the ante during the entire 20 overs.

The only notable partnership was between Sune Luus (33) and Nadine de Klerk (26), who added 43 runs for the fifth wicket after they were in a spot of bother at 58 for 4. 
&nbsp;

Mithali Raj and opener Smriti Mandhana hit stylish half-centuries as India cruised to a comfortable nine-wicket victory over South Africa in the second women's T20 International

Veteran Mithali Raj and opener Smriti Mandhana hit stylish half-centuries as India cruised to a comfortable nine-wicket victory over South Africa in the second women's T20 International. The Harmanpreet Kaur-led team is now 2-0 up in the five-match series, having won the opening encounter by seven wickets. Chasing a modest 143, India cantered to victory in 19.1 overs as Mandhana hit a blistering 57 off 42 balls while Raj anchored the innings to perfection with her second successive half-century, remaining unbeaten on 76 off 61 balls. Raj awarded 'Player of the Match' once again. "The wicket was on the slower side and it wouldn't have been easy for a new batter to come in and start hitting straightaway. The century partnership (with Mandhana) was really important," Raj said at the post-match presentation ceremony. Her skipper Harmanpreet was equally ecstatic with the senior pro's performance. "We had discussed that if a player gets settled, she would have to bat through. It was a fantastic effort from Mithali di as she performed the role of a senior player," she said. Mandhana struck four boundaries and three sixes --- one off leg-spinner Dane van Niekerk and another two off Raisibe Ntozakhe. It wasn't exactly a flawless inning as she was dropped twice during her second half-century in the shortest format. 2nd T20I: @mandhana_smriti brings up her half-century with a six. Ind - 91/0 after 12 overs #SAvIND pic.twitter.com/waJtIh9zXv — BCCI Women (@BCCIWomen) February 16, 2018 × Along with one day skipper Raj, Mandhana added 106 runs for the opening stand in 14.2 overs. Mandhana, who scored a century and a half-century in India's ODI series win, was in her element, attacking the Proteas bowling from the word go and reaching her half-century off only 37 balls. Raj, on the other hand, completed her 12th T20 half-century off 48 deliveries. She waited for the loose deliveries to hit her customary cover drives and also rotated the strike well. Only after Mandhana was adjudged leg before, she took charge with 23 needed off the last three overs. She targeted medium pacer Ayabonga Khaka, bowling the 18th over, hitting her for two boundaries to ease off any pressure that was there. In all, Raj hit eight boundaries and the last was a thump over mid-wicket off Shabnim Ismail, which brought about India's victory. Earlier, leg-spinner Poonam Yadav (2/18 in 4 overs) and off-spinner Anuja Patil (2/37 in 4 overs) shared a bulk of the spoils as the Proteas women could never up to the ante during the entire 20 overs. The only notable partnership was between Sune Luus (33) and Nadine de Klerk (26), who added 43 runs for the fifth wicket after they were in a spot of bother at 58 for 4.

Raj, Mandhana fire India to 9-wicket win over South Africa

To set the tone of this discussion, first, let&#39;s have a look at these famous quotes.

&lsquo;Class is permanent and form is temporary&rsquo;; &lsquo;Improvisation and evaluation is a continual process&rdquo;.

MS Dhoni&rsquo;s role in Indian ODI and T-20 series has been under public scrutiny for a while now. He certainly is not the same class act for the past couple of years, what he used to be a few years back. In current ODI series, true that he played a knock of run a ball 42 at Johannesburg in 4th&nbsp;ODI but he disappointed in the 5th&nbsp;ODI at Port Elizabeth. When he came to bat in 43rd&nbsp;over, the total was 236 for five. The stage was set for Dhoni to take India past 300, but he just couldn&rsquo;t launch the attack, which has been his USP for all those years. It was palpable that one of the finest finishers of the game is waning.

This makes me think if the time is up for Dhoni now?

Nobody will disagree with the fact that MS Dhoni is the pride of India. &nbsp;He is one among the greatest Cricketers the nation has produced. His achievements might not get reflected in the numbers, records &amp; longevity (like that of Gavaskar &amp; Tendulkar) but under his captaincy, the Indian team had been raising the performance bar higher.&nbsp;I in fact, rate him parallel to Kapil Dev in terms of impact on the game as well. Kapil was the first player in his class and he inspired a whole generation to pursue pace bowling.

Similarly, Dhoni started a new template of cricketers in India, which earlier belonged to Australia or West Indies only - a powerful and slick hitter, razor-sharp behind the stumps, easygoing and cool on the ground, the ability of leading from the front, dominating and possessing a unique art of controlling any situation in the game.

In 13 years of career, he has achieved everything which he could have sought in&nbsp;wildest of his dreams. It was Dhoni who took India to T-20 World Cup, ICC World Cup and ICC Champion&rsquo;s Trophy triumph. Unresting here, he took India to the summit of ICC Test ranking and like a superman, he won the World Cup with swinging bat in the final match by sending the ball over the rope (World Cup 2011).

But now Dhoni is 36 &frac12; years old and we can not expect the same endurance level from him which he used to deliver five years back. The main problem with Dhoni&rsquo;s style of batting is that he depends on hand-eye coordination and it is bound to decline with age.&nbsp;

However, as stated above, Dhoni is a class act and all we need is the resetting his role in the team. Despite the decline in his natural hitting abilities, Dhoni still has some unique selling points. He is sharp behind the stumps, he is frantic runner between the wicket and he brings plenty of experience on the table, which at times become very handy for Kohli. Moreover, God has given him a natural hawk-eye and he is normally spot-on with his decisions to go upstairs for DRS.

The need of the hour is to change Dhoni&rsquo;s&nbsp;&nbsp;batting order. Dhoni is no longer the best man to finish the innings at number six or seven. He, however, can still play a colossal role in mid overs, largely because of his ability to keep the scoreboard ticking by taking ones and twos. His ability to run fast between the wickets helps him in the course.

Sending Dhoni at four or five will also help Indian team to fix their middle order woes. Currently in the middle order, barring skipper Kohli, there is huge volatility and Dhoni can be the perfect companion to Kohli. As we saw in past, when Dhoni and Kohli bats together, they score with a rate of five-run per overs in just singles and doubles only.

When we unfold the pages of Dhoni&#39;s history, he played the role of Imran Khan from Pakistan who played amazingly in his last couple of years (with the bat). Like Dhoni, Imran was a hard hitter at number six/seven during his peak. In 1992 World Cup, 39 years old Imran promoted himself up the order. He spearheaded Pakistan&rsquo;s batting in the middle of the innings. In the final of 1992 World Cup, Imran came at number three when Pakistan was reeling at the scoreline of 24 for 2. Imran built the innings with a very watchful 72 runs.

Indian thinktank needs to a take a cue from there. We saw the first version of Dhoni that is Dhoni:1 in 2004 &ndash; a hard-hitting flamboyant batsman, who would decimate Pakistan is its own backyard and won accolade from President Musharraf.&nbsp;We have also witnessed the second version of &nbsp;Dhoni, that is Dhoni:2 - launched in Sep 2007 with T20 World Cup victory&ndash; an astute leader with a knack for winning World Cups/big tournaments and leading from the front.&nbsp;

Before brand Dhoni becomes history,&nbsp;the time has come to have the final version of this series - Dhoni:03, which can be equally successful as the first two versions were.&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) 
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

MS Dhoni has needs to be rebooted to secure the position 6th in the team

To set the tone of this discussion, first, let's have a look at these famous quotes. ‘Class is permanent and form is temporary’; ‘Improvisation and evaluation is a continual process”. MS Dhoni’s role in Indian ODI and T-20 series has been under public scrutiny for a while now. He certainly is not the same class act for the past couple of years, what he used to be a few years back. In current ODI series, true that he played a knock of run a ball 42 at Johannesburg in 4th ODI but he disappointed in the 5th ODI at Port Elizabeth. When he came to bat in 43rd over, the total was 236 for five. The stage was set for Dhoni to take India past 300, but he just couldn’t launch the attack, which has been his USP for all those years. It was palpable that one of the finest finishers of the game is waning. This makes me think if the time is up for Dhoni now? Nobody will disagree with the fact that MS Dhoni is the pride of India. He is one among the greatest Cricketers the nation has produced. His achievements might not get reflected in the numbers, records & longevity (like that of Gavaskar & Tendulkar) but under his captaincy, the Indian team had been raising the performance bar higher. I in fact, rate him parallel to Kapil Dev in terms of impact on the game as well. Kapil was the first player in his class and he inspired a whole generation to pursue pace bowling. Similarly, Dhoni started a new template of cricketers in India, which earlier belonged to Australia or West Indies only - a powerful and slick hitter, razor-sharp behind the stumps, easygoing and cool on the ground, the ability of leading from the front, dominating and possessing a unique art of controlling any situation in the game. In 13 years of career, he has achieved everything which he could have sought in wildest of his dreams. It was Dhoni who took India to T-20 World Cup, ICC World Cup and ICC Champion’s Trophy triumph. Unresting here, he took India to the summit of ICC Test ranking and like a superman, he won the World Cup with swinging bat in the final match by sending the ball over the rope (World Cup 2011). But now Dhoni is 36 ½ years old and we can not expect the same endurance level from him which he used to deliver five years back. The main problem with Dhoni’s style of batting is that he depends on hand-eye coordination and it is bound to decline with age. However, as stated above, Dhoni is a class act and all we need is the resetting his role in the team. Despite the decline in his natural hitting abilities, Dhoni still has some unique selling points. He is sharp behind the stumps, he is frantic runner between the wicket and he brings plenty of experience on the table, which at times become very handy for Kohli. Moreover, God has given him a natural hawk-eye and he is normally spot-on with his decisions to go upstairs for DRS. The need of the hour is to change Dhoni’s batting order. Dhoni is no longer the best man to finish the innings at number six or seven. He, however, can still play a colossal role in mid overs, largely because of his ability to keep the scoreboard ticking by taking ones and twos. His ability to run fast between the wickets helps him in the course. Sending Dhoni at four or five will also help Indian team to fix their middle order woes. Currently in the middle order, barring skipper Kohli, there is huge volatility and Dhoni can be the perfect companion to Kohli. As we saw in past, when Dhoni and Kohli bats together, they score with a rate of five-run per overs in just singles and doubles only. When we unfold the pages of Dhoni's history, he played the role of Imran Khan from Pakistan who played amazingly in his last couple of years (with the bat). Like Dhoni, Imran was a hard hitter at number six/seven during his peak. In 1992 World Cup, 39 years old Imran promoted himself up the order. He spearheaded Pakistan’s batting in the middle of the innings. In the final of 1992 World Cup, Imran came at number three when Pakistan was reeling at the scoreline of 24 for 2. Imran built the innings with a very watchful 72 runs. Indian thinktank needs to a take a cue from there. We saw the first version of Dhoni that is Dhoni:1 in 2004 – a hard-hitting flamboyant batsman, who would decimate Pakistan is its own backyard and won accolade from President Musharraf. We have also witnessed the second version of Dhoni, that is Dhoni:2 - launched in Sep 2007 with T20 World Cup victory– an astute leader with a knack for winning World Cups/big tournaments and leading from the front. Before brand Dhoni becomes history, the time has come to have the final version of this series - Dhoni:03, which can be equally successful as the first two versions were. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: Time to have new version of MS Dhoni: 'Dhoni .03'

India won the One Day International six-match series against South Africa by 5-1.

Virat Kohli slammed a magnificent century to lead the team to a historic win on&nbsp;the South African soil.

He also becomes first Indian captain to hit three centuries in the single ODI series&nbsp;and also becomes fastest batsman to score 17,000 international runs.

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India captain <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> is the Player of the Series - the first player ever to score over 500 runs in a bilateral ODI series! ???? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/UCIoL6gF39">pic.twitter.com/UCIoL6gF39</a>
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For his magical performance throughout the series captain, Kohli awarded Man of the series as he scored 558 runs in the series and also Man of the match for an amazing knock in the final ODI.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-the-reasons-behind-indias-historic-victory-692#photo-37950">In pics: Reasons behind India&#39;s historic victory against South Africa</a>

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A third century of the series for <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> gets him his third Player of the Match award of the series! 
 
He&#39;s the first Indian to score three centuries in a bilateral ODI series! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/2s8EHjQDMw">pic.twitter.com/2s8EHjQDMw</a>
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In the post-match interview, he said that he gives credits to the wife (Anushka Sharma) as she always supported him.

He also mentioned that Anushka had been criticised in the past for his&nbsp;poor performance.

So he dedicated the victory and match-winning&nbsp;knock to her.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-virat-kohli-shardul-thakur-india-south-africa-6th-odi-team-india-indvssa-team-india-live-33105">Also read:&nbsp;Virat Kohli slams century, inspires team to historic victory</a>

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In the post-match interview Virat said that he gives credit to his wife Anushka Sharma

India won the One Day International six-match series against South Africa by 5-1. Virat Kohli slammed a magnificent century to lead the team to a historic win on the South African soil. He also becomes first Indian captain to hit three centuries in the single ODI series and also becomes fastest batsman to score 17,000 international runs. India captain @imVkohli is the Player of the Series - the first player ever to score over 500 runs in a bilateral ODI series! ???? #SAvIND pic.twitter.com/UCIoL6gF39 — ICC (@ICC) February 16, 2018 × For his magical performance throughout the series captain, Kohli awarded Man of the series as he scored 558 runs in the series and also Man of the match for an amazing knock in the final ODI. In pics: Reasons behind India's historic victory against South Africa A third century of the series for @imVkohli gets him his third Player of the Match award of the series! He's the first Indian to score three centuries in a bilateral ODI series! #SAvIND pic.twitter.com/2s8EHjQDMw — ICC (@ICC) February 16, 2018 × In the post-match interview, he said that he gives credits to the wife (Anushka Sharma) as she always supported him. He also mentioned that Anushka had been criticised in the past for his poor performance. So he dedicated the victory and match-winning knock to her. Also read: Virat Kohli slams century, inspires team to historic victory

Virat Kohli gives credit to wife Anushka for his performance

Australia won the 5th T20 international tri-series match against New Zealand in the&nbsp;Auckland on Friday.

Earlier, New Zealand won the toss and elected to bat and for New Zeland, Martin Guptill played magnificently and slammed a century.

Martin Guptill and Colin Munro inspire the team to set a giant target of 243.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-australia-new-zealand-ausvsnz-martin-guptill-colin-munro-33064">Despite Guptill&#39;s 105 splendid ton</a>, New Zealand lost the match as Australian were very quick in scoring to achieve the mammoth target.

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What a game we&#39;ve had at Eden Park! Australia pull off the biggest successful run chase in T20I history to beat New Zealand by 5 wickets in a classic! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NZvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NZvAUS</a> scorecard ➡️ <a href="https://t.co/Cidk6uRryy">https://t.co/Cidk6uRryy</a> <a href="https://t.co/RQm52tEXev">pic.twitter.com/RQm52tEXev</a>
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Australian opener David Warner and D Arcy Short started off for the team well and scored 121 runs together.

Warner played with a strike rate of 245.83 and scored 59 of 24 balls which is commendable and D Arcy Short scored 76 of 44 balls for his magnificent performance, Arcy Short was awarded the man of the match award.

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An outstanding chase! <a href="https://twitter.com/ShortDarcy?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ShortDarcy</a> is the Player of the Match for his brilliant 76 that led Australia&#39;s record-breaking pursuit! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NZvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NZvAUS</a> <a href="https://t.co/wb1Lz0mnki">pic.twitter.com/wb1Lz0mnki</a>
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Also, Chris Lynn (18), Glenn Maxwell (31) and Marcus Stoinis (4) contributed well to the team.

Aaron Finch played an unbeaten knock of 36 runs of 14 balls to lead the Oz to victory.

Australia had already reached the series finale after winning all of their three previous matches, with two victories against England and one against New Zealand.

Now, New Zealand would either have to beat England on the weekend or hope to scrape through on run rate to enter the decider. 
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D Arcy Short played a match-winning knock and awarded player of the match for leading the team to victory

Australia won the 5th T20 international tri-series match against New Zealand in the Auckland on Friday. Earlier, New Zealand won the toss and elected to bat and for New Zeland, Martin Guptill played magnificently and slammed a century. Martin Guptill and Colin Munro inspire the team to set a giant target of 243. Despite Guptill's 105 splendid ton, New Zealand lost the match as Australian were very quick in scoring to achieve the mammoth target. What a game we've had at Eden Park! Australia pull off the biggest successful run chase in T20I history to beat New Zealand by 5 wickets in a classic! #NZvAUS scorecard ➡️ https://t.co/Cidk6uRryy pic.twitter.com/RQm52tEXev — ICC (@ICC) February 16, 2018 × Australian opener David Warner and D Arcy Short started off for the team well and scored 121 runs together. Warner played with a strike rate of 245.83 and scored 59 of 24 balls which is commendable and D Arcy Short scored 76 of 44 balls for his magnificent performance, Arcy Short was awarded the man of the match award. An outstanding chase! @ShortDarcy is the Player of the Match for his brilliant 76 that led Australia's record-breaking pursuit! #NZvAUS pic.twitter.com/wb1Lz0mnki — ICC (@ICC) February 16, 2018 × Also, Chris Lynn (18), Glenn Maxwell (31) and Marcus Stoinis (4) contributed well to the team. Aaron Finch played an unbeaten knock of 36 runs of 14 balls to lead the Oz to victory. Australia had already reached the series finale after winning all of their three previous matches, with two victories against England and one against New Zealand. Now, New Zealand would either have to beat England on the weekend or hope to scrape through on run rate to enter the decider.

Despite Guptill's massive knock, Australia outplays New Zealand to win T20 match

New&nbsp;Zealand&nbsp;won the toss and elected to bat against Australia in the fifth T20 tri-series match in Auckland on Friday.

Playing first, New Zealand has given a target of 243 runs.

For New Zealand, Martin Guptill and Colin Munro started off well and gave a good start for the team.

Guptil slammed a magnificent century and scored 105 of 54. His splendid knock included six fours and nine sixes balls.

He found a determined ally in Colin Munro who scored 76 runs of 33 balls.

Together they made 132 runs for the first wicket an both of them edged the ball of Andrew Tye in the safe hands of Maxwell.

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Glorious Guptill&#39;s record-breaking century guides New Zealand to a giant Eden Park record 243/6! It&#39;s New Zealand&#39;s joint-highest total in T20Is too! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NZvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NZvAUS</a> LIVE ➡️ <a href="https://t.co/Cidk6uRryy">https://t.co/Cidk6uRryy</a> <a href="https://t.co/6Uj1ce7JuC">pic.twitter.com/6Uj1ce7JuC</a>
&mdash; ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/964402551738195976?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Tim Seifert (12), Mark Chapman (16), Colin de Grandhomme (0) and Kane Williamson (1) lost their wickets&nbsp;at a low score.

Ross Taylor and Ben Wheeler remained unbeaten at 17 runs and 1 run respectively.

Earlier, New Zealand&#39;s captain Kane Williamson said that the team needed to set up a solid platform to challenge the unbeaten Australians at Eden Park.

&quot;It&#39;s a used surface but it won&#39;t change too much, so it&#39;s important we do the job first up with the bat,&quot; he said.

He said&nbsp;New&nbsp;Zealand&nbsp;had called up seamer Ben Wheeler to replace spinner Mitchell Santner, who has a knee injury.

Australia has already reached the series finale after winning all of their three previous matches, with two victories against England and one against&nbsp;New&nbsp;Zealand.

A win would guarantee&nbsp;New&nbsp;Zealand&nbsp;a spot in the decider, rendering their match against England in Hamilton on Sunday a dead rubber.

A loss means they would either have to beat England on the weekend or hope to scrape through on run rate.

Australian skipper David Warner said he would have bowled first regardless.

He said Australia retained the same team that beat England by seven wickets in Melbourne on Sunday and has dominated the series so far.

&quot;They&#39;re playing with freedom (and) they&#39;re executing their skills,&quot; he said.

Squad:

New&nbsp;Zealand: Martin Guptill, Colin Munro, Kane Williamson (capt), Mark Chapman, Ross Taylor, Colin de Grandhomme, Tim Seifert, Ben Wheeler, Tim Southee, Ish Sodhi, Trent Boult.

Australia: David Warner (capt), D&#39;Arcy Short, Chris Lynn, Glenn Maxwell, Aaron Finch, Marcus Stoinis, Alex Carey, Ashton Agar, Andrew Tye, Kane Richardson, Billy Stanlake.

Guptil slammed a magnificent century and scored 105 and inspires the team to put up a modest total of 243

New Zealand won the toss and elected to bat against Australia in the fifth T20 tri-series match in Auckland on Friday. Playing first, New Zealand has given a target of 243 runs. For New Zealand, Martin Guptill and Colin Munro started off well and gave a good start for the team. Guptil slammed a magnificent century and scored 105 of 54. His splendid knock included six fours and nine sixes balls. He found a determined ally in Colin Munro who scored 76 runs of 33 balls. Together they made 132 runs for the first wicket an both of them edged the ball of Andrew Tye in the safe hands of Maxwell. Glorious Guptill's record-breaking century guides New Zealand to a giant Eden Park record 243/6! It's New Zealand's joint-highest total in T20Is too! #NZvAUS LIVE ➡️ https://t.co/Cidk6uRryy pic.twitter.com/6Uj1ce7JuC — ICC (@ICC) February 16, 2018 × Tim Seifert (12), Mark Chapman (16), Colin de Grandhomme (0) and Kane Williamson (1) lost their wickets at a low score. Ross Taylor and Ben Wheeler remained unbeaten at 17 runs and 1 run respectively. Earlier, New Zealand's captain Kane Williamson said that the team needed to set up a solid platform to challenge the unbeaten Australians at Eden Park. "It's a used surface but it won't change too much, so it's important we do the job first up with the bat," he said. He said New Zealand had called up seamer Ben Wheeler to replace spinner Mitchell Santner, who has a knee injury. Australia has already reached the series finale after winning all of their three previous matches, with two victories against England and one against New Zealand. A win would guarantee New Zealand a spot in the decider, rendering their match against England in Hamilton on Sunday a dead rubber. A loss means they would either have to beat England on the weekend or hope to scrape through on run rate. Australian skipper David Warner said he would have bowled first regardless. He said Australia retained the same team that beat England by seven wickets in Melbourne on Sunday and has dominated the series so far. "They're playing with freedom (and) they're executing their skills," he said. Squad: New Zealand: Martin Guptill, Colin Munro, Kane Williamson (capt), Mark Chapman, Ross Taylor, Colin de Grandhomme, Tim Seifert, Ben Wheeler, Tim Southee, Ish Sodhi, Trent Boult. Australia: David Warner (capt), D'Arcy Short, Chris Lynn, Glenn Maxwell, Aaron Finch, Marcus Stoinis, Alex Carey, Ashton Agar, Andrew Tye, Kane Richardson, Billy Stanlake.

T20 Australia Vs New Zealand: Martin Guptill slams century

India won the 6th ODI as well as the series against South Africa&nbsp;at SuperSport Park, Centurion on Friday.

Virat Kohli slammed a magnificent century to lead the team to a historic win on the South African soil.

For his magical performace throughout&nbsp;the series captain Kohli awarded with Man of the series and also Man of the match for an amazing knock in the&nbsp;final ODI.

Earlier India won the toss and opted to bowl and South Africa again struggled to score runs as the batting order did not show any stability.

India kept taking quick wickets and continued to build up the pressure on the South African team.

Opener Aiden Markram scored 24 runs and Hashim Amla scored only 10 runs. The top batting order was thrashed by Shardul Thakur and Yuzi Chahal.

Chahal saw AB de Villiers off and celebrated the moment of taking the biggest wicket by doing a dab. AB scored 30 off 32 balls.

For South Africa, Khaya Zondo scored maximum (54) but could not handle the pressure and edged an easy catch&nbsp;of Chahal&#39;s ball in the safe hands of Hardik Pandya.

Fall of wickets:

23-1 (Hashim Amla, 6.3), 43-2 (Aiden Markram, 9.5), 105-3 (AB de Villiers, 20.5), 135-4 (Heinrich Klaasen, 30.3), 136-5 (Farhaan Behardien, 31.2), 142-6 (Chris Morris, 33.3), 151-7 (Khaya Zondo, 36.6), 187-8 (Morne Morkel, 43.4), 192-9 (Imran Tahir, 45.4), 204-10 (Andile Phehlukwayo, 46.5)

For India, Shardul Thakur came out as star and took four crucial wickets of Aiden Markram (24), Hashim Amla (10), Farhaan Behardien (1) and Andile Phehlukwayo (34) in his spell of 8.5 overs.

Jasprit Bumrah sends off Heinrich Klaasen (22) and Imran Tahir (2). Hardik Pandya (20) saw off Morne Morkel and Kuldeep Yadav took Chris Morris&#39;s (4) wicket. Yuzi out bowled AB de Villiers (30) and Khaya Zondo (54).

India has already created history by winning the One Day International series in the South African soil as they lead the series with an unassailable 4-1.

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Shardul Thakur came out as star and took four crucial wickets of Aiden Markram (24), Hashim Amla (10), Farhaan Behardien (1) and Andile Phehlukwayo (34) in his spell of 8.5 overs

India won the 6th ODI as well as the series against South Africa at SuperSport Park, Centurion on Friday. Virat Kohli slammed a magnificent century to lead the team to a historic win on the South African soil. For his magical performace throughout the series captain Kohli awarded with Man of the series and also Man of the match for an amazing knock in the final ODI. Earlier India won the toss and opted to bowl and South Africa again struggled to score runs as the batting order did not show any stability. India kept taking quick wickets and continued to build up the pressure on the South African team. Opener Aiden Markram scored 24 runs and Hashim Amla scored only 10 runs. The top batting order was thrashed by Shardul Thakur and Yuzi Chahal. Chahal saw AB de Villiers off and celebrated the moment of taking the biggest wicket by doing a dab. AB scored 30 off 32 balls. For South Africa, Khaya Zondo scored maximum (54) but could not handle the pressure and edged an easy catch of Chahal's ball in the safe hands of Hardik Pandya. Fall of wickets: 23-1 (Hashim Amla, 6.3), 43-2 (Aiden Markram, 9.5), 105-3 (AB de Villiers, 20.5), 135-4 (Heinrich Klaasen, 30.3), 136-5 (Farhaan Behardien, 31.2), 142-6 (Chris Morris, 33.3), 151-7 (Khaya Zondo, 36.6), 187-8 (Morne Morkel, 43.4), 192-9 (Imran Tahir, 45.4), 204-10 (Andile Phehlukwayo, 46.5) For India, Shardul Thakur came out as star and took four crucial wickets of Aiden Markram (24), Hashim Amla (10), Farhaan Behardien (1) and Andile Phehlukwayo (34) in his spell of 8.5 overs. Jasprit Bumrah sends off Heinrich Klaasen (22) and Imran Tahir (2). Hardik Pandya (20) saw off Morne Morkel and Kuldeep Yadav took Chris Morris's (4) wicket. Yuzi out bowled AB de Villiers (30) and Khaya Zondo (54). India has already created history by winning the One Day International series in the South African soil as they lead the series with an unassailable 4-1.

Virat Kohli slams century, inspires team to historic victory

Virat Kohli won the toss and opts to bowl in the sixth ODI match against South Africa at&nbsp;SuperSport Park, Centurion on Friday.

South Africa lost early wickets and struggles in the ongoing match. None of the batsmen were effective in front of the Indian bowling attack.

Shradul Thakur shines and took three crucial wickets of Aiden Markram (24), Hashim Amla (10) and Farhaan Behardien (1).

India has already created history by winning the One Day International series in the South African soil as they lead the series with an unassailable&nbsp;4-1.

Earlier the Proteas had won the Teat series of the same tour and Indian team faced a volcano of trolls and criticism for not performing&nbsp;up to the mark.

Unsurprisingly, men in blue shut the backbiters by beating the South African side in all departments, be it batting, bowling, fielding and decision making in the ODI series.

The Proteas were also overshadowed by a series of injuries as their stars players like AB de Villiers, Faf du Plessis and Quinton de Kock were ruled out amid ODI series.

AB marked his come back in the 4th ODI but remained ineffective as Indian team played brilliantly well throughout the series.

There were few loopholes&nbsp;in the Indian squad as well when opener Rohit Sharma remained&nbsp;out of form in the limited overs format until the last ODI when he slammed a magnificent century and regain&nbsp;the momentum.

The middle&nbsp;batting order is still bit weak and the issue of number four spot has to resolve as soon as possible because Virat is doing a lot of experimentation with spot number four it has to be resolved&nbsp;before World Cup 2019.

The bowlers are doing an amazing job and the highlights of India bowling side&nbsp;are Bhuvi unmatchable seam and the Spin Twins (Kuldeep-Chahal). They have delivered some mesmerizing spell and created records.

Where on one hand, the Indian team, world number one, will enter with a high to wrap up the series with a 5-1 score, on the other hand, the South African side will be looking to salvage the cricketing pride.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> Playing XI for the 6th and final ODI. Shardul Thakur comes in place of Bhuvneshwar Kumar <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/qJuA4HMEXu">pic.twitter.com/qJuA4HMEXu</a>
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Both the teams have not made any changes in the squad only Markram has called back&nbsp;Khaya Zondo, Farhaan Behardien and Imran Tahir.

Squad:

South Africa: Hashim Amla, Aiden Markram(c), AB de Villiers, Khaya Zondo, Farhaan Behardien, Heinrich Klaasen(w), Chris Morris, Andile Phehlukwayo, Imran Tahir, Morne Morkel, Lungisani Ngidi

India: Shikhar Dhawan, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli(c), Ajinkya Rahane, Shreyas Iyer, Hardik Pandya, MS Dhoni(w), Shardul Thakur, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Yuzvendra Chahal

&nbsp;

The Indian team, world number one, will enter with a high to wrap up the series with a 5-1 lead, on the other hand, the South African side will be looking to salvage the cricketing pride

Virat Kohli won the toss and opts to bowl in the sixth ODI match against South Africa at SuperSport Park, Centurion on Friday. South Africa lost early wickets and struggles in the ongoing match. None of the batsmen were effective in front of the Indian bowling attack. Shradul Thakur shines and took three crucial wickets of Aiden Markram (24), Hashim Amla (10) and Farhaan Behardien (1). India has already created history by winning the One Day International series in the South African soil as they lead the series with an unassailable 4-1. Earlier the Proteas had won the Teat series of the same tour and Indian team faced a volcano of trolls and criticism for not performing up to the mark. Unsurprisingly, men in blue shut the backbiters by beating the South African side in all departments, be it batting, bowling, fielding and decision making in the ODI series. The Proteas were also overshadowed by a series of injuries as their stars players like AB de Villiers, Faf du Plessis and Quinton de Kock were ruled out amid ODI series. AB marked his come back in the 4th ODI but remained ineffective as Indian team played brilliantly well throughout the series. There were few loopholes in the Indian squad as well when opener Rohit Sharma remained out of form in the limited overs format until the last ODI when he slammed a magnificent century and regain the momentum. The middle batting order is still bit weak and the issue of number four spot has to resolve as soon as possible because Virat is doing a lot of experimentation with spot number four it has to be resolved before World Cup 2019. The bowlers are doing an amazing job and the highlights of India bowling side are Bhuvi unmatchable seam and the Spin Twins (Kuldeep-Chahal). They have delivered some mesmerizing spell and created records. Where on one hand, the Indian team, world number one, will enter with a high to wrap up the series with a 5-1 score, on the other hand, the South African side will be looking to salvage the cricketing pride. #TeamIndia Playing XI for the 6th and final ODI. Shardul Thakur comes in place of Bhuvneshwar Kumar #SAvIND pic.twitter.com/qJuA4HMEXu — BCCI (@BCCI) February 16, 2018 × Both the teams have not made any changes in the squad only Markram has called back Khaya Zondo, Farhaan Behardien and Imran Tahir. Squad: South Africa: Hashim Amla, Aiden Markram(c), AB de Villiers, Khaya Zondo, Farhaan Behardien, Heinrich Klaasen(w), Chris Morris, Andile Phehlukwayo, Imran Tahir, Morne Morkel, Lungisani Ngidi India: Shikhar Dhawan, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli(c), Ajinkya Rahane, Shreyas Iyer, Hardik Pandya, MS Dhoni(w), Shardul Thakur, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Yuzvendra Chahal

6th ODI IND vs SA: Shardul Thakur strikes thrice, South Africa 148-6 after 36 overs

Shane Warne returned to his former IPL team, not as a bowler, obviously but as a mentor. He was probably the reason when Rajasthan won the IPL trophy in 2008.

Recently, he had revealed that he will return to the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-2018-all-teams-and-their-squad-list-653">upcoming edition of IPL</a>.

The last time he played for Rajasthan Royals was 2011. Now, he set to return as the team&#39;s mentor.

Rajasthan Royals, who will be playing the IPL this season after serving a two-year ban, announced the &#39;homecoming&#39; of the 48-year-old.

In a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-auction-2018-funny-tweets-and-memes-flood-internet-30956">recent tweet</a>, he said, &quot;Very excited to be joining the @rajasthanroyals in this years #IPL as team mentor!&quot;

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Very excited to be joining the <a href="https://twitter.com/rajasthanroyals?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rajasthanroyals</a> in this years <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL</a> as team mentor ! <a href="https://t.co/WdrzDAIDZl">https://t.co/WdrzDAIDZl</a>
&mdash; Shane Warne (@ShaneWarne) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShaneWarne/status/963309279921848320?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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A message from our First Royal, <a href="https://twitter.com/ShaneWarne?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ShaneWarne</a> for all the Royal fans out there!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HallaBol?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HallaBol</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AbBajegaDanka?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AbBajegaDanka</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TheReturnOfTheFirstRoyal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TheReturnOfTheFirstRoyal</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2018?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2018</a> <a href="https://t.co/rrrgeXmFbF">pic.twitter.com/rrrgeXmFbF</a>
&mdash; Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) <a href="https://twitter.com/rajasthanroyals/status/963326773248192513?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&quot;I am very happy and excited to be back with the Rajasthan Royals who I believe hold a very special place in my cricketing journey.

I am overwhelmed by the love and affection showered on me by the franchise and the fans,&quot; said Warne.

&quot;We have a strong, young and energetic bunch of boys and I am looking forward to work with them,&quot; he added.

Warne will be joined by another Royals old hand in former Mumbai batsman Zubin Bharucha as Head of Cricket.

Royals co-owner Manoj Badale was thrilled at Warne&#39;s return.

&quot;He is a legend of the game and what he has achieved in Rajasthan Royals is unmatchable,&quot; said Badale.

&quot;Bringing back Shane Warne is also a way of giving back to our fans who have stood by us in trying times. As we are looking to build a strong team that can be in contention for the title, we believe Warne is the right person to mentor the Rajasthan Royals,&quot; he added.

Rajasthan Royals welcomed him and shared a video of his beautiful journey.

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This one&#39;s for you Warnie!!! 
The First Royal ???? <a href="https://twitter.com/ShaneWarne?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ShaneWarne</a> returns home. Let&rsquo;s get the season started... ???????? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HallaBol?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HallaBol</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AbBajegaDanka?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AbBajegaDanka</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TheReturnOfTheFirstRoyal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TheReturnOfTheFirstRoyal</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2018?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2018</a> <a href="https://t.co/RuVN4cwb5O">pic.twitter.com/RuVN4cwb5O</a>
&mdash; Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) <a href="https://twitter.com/rajasthanroyals/status/963319178936557568?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Royals spent big in the recent IPL auction, buying troubled England all-rounder Ben Stokes for a whopping Rs 12.5 crore and India pacer Jaydev Unadkat for Rs 11.5 crore.

Australian captain Steve Smith and India batsman Ajinkya Rahane are the other big names in the team.

&nbsp;

Rajasthan Royals will be playing the upcoming edition of IPL after serving a two-year ban

Shane Warne returned to his former IPL team, not as a bowler, obviously but as a mentor. He was probably the reason when Rajasthan won the IPL trophy in 2008. Recently, he had revealed that he will return to the upcoming edition of IPL. The last time he played for Rajasthan Royals was 2011. Now, he set to return as the team's mentor. Rajasthan Royals, who will be playing the IPL this season after serving a two-year ban, announced the 'homecoming' of the 48-year-old. In a recent tweet, he said, "Very excited to be joining the @rajasthanroyals in this years #IPL as team mentor!" Very excited to be joining the @rajasthanroyals in this years #IPL as team mentor ! https://t.co/WdrzDAIDZl — Shane Warne (@ShaneWarne) February 13, 2018 × A message from our First Royal, @ShaneWarne for all the Royal fans out there!#HallaBol #AbBajegaDanka #TheReturnOfTheFirstRoyal #IPL2018 pic.twitter.com/rrrgeXmFbF — Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) February 13, 2018 × "I am very happy and excited to be back with the Rajasthan Royals who I believe hold a very special place in my cricketing journey. I am overwhelmed by the love and affection showered on me by the franchise and the fans," said Warne. "We have a strong, young and energetic bunch of boys and I am looking forward to work with them," he added. Warne will be joined by another Royals old hand in former Mumbai batsman Zubin Bharucha as Head of Cricket. Royals co-owner Manoj Badale was thrilled at Warne's return. "He is a legend of the game and what he has achieved in Rajasthan Royals is unmatchable," said Badale. "Bringing back Shane Warne is also a way of giving back to our fans who have stood by us in trying times. As we are looking to build a strong team that can be in contention for the title, we believe Warne is the right person to mentor the Rajasthan Royals," he added. Rajasthan Royals welcomed him and shared a video of his beautiful journey. This one's for you Warnie!!! The First Royal ???? @ShaneWarne returns home. Let’s get the season started... ???????? #HallaBol #AbBajegaDanka #TheReturnOfTheFirstRoyal #IPL2018 pic.twitter.com/RuVN4cwb5O — Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) February 13, 2018 × Royals spent big in the recent IPL auction, buying troubled England all-rounder Ben Stokes for a whopping Rs 12.5 crore and India pacer Jaydev Unadkat for Rs 11.5 crore. Australian captain Steve Smith and India batsman Ajinkya Rahane are the other big names in the team.

IPL: Shane Warne marks royal return as Rajasthan's mentor

Rohit Sharma&rsquo;s hard-fought knock of 115 took India to 274-7 from their 50 overs during the fifth ODI against South Africa here on Tuesday.

The South African bowlers, especially Lungi Ngidi (4/51), have brought the Proteas back into the game.&nbsp;

After winning the toss, South Africa put India to bat. Shikhar Dhawan (34 runs) was the first to depart, but Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli put up a 105-run partnership for the fourth wicket.&nbsp;

The Indian captain&rsquo;s life at the field with the bat was short-lived as he departed for 36.

Ajinkya Rahane (8) was the next to follow Kohli after another confusion between the wickets. Despite losing wickets in quick succession, Rohit carried on showing his batting prowess and went on to score his 17th ODI ton, hitting 10 boundaries and 4 sixes in the run-up to his century.&nbsp;

South Africa will hope to chase down the total and stay alive in the series when they come out to bat.

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South Africa have won the toss and elected to bowl first in the 5th <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvIND</a> ODI in Port Elizabeth. Will they be able to restrict India and keep the series alive? 
 
Follow LIVE ➡️ <a href="https://t.co/BYzPaf9WOg">https://t.co/BYzPaf9WOg</a> <a href="https://t.co/H7aT8euy2v">pic.twitter.com/H7aT8euy2v</a>
&mdash; ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/963365886026424320?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Squad:

South Africa: Aiden Markram (c), Hashim Amla, Jean-Paul Duminy, AB de Villiers, David Miller, Heinrich Klaasen (wk), Andile Phehlukwayo, Kagiso Rabada, Lungisani Ngidi, Morne Morkel, Tabraiz Shamsi

India: Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, Virat Kohli (c), Ajinkya Rahane, Shreyas Iyer, MS Dhoni (wk), Hardik Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Jasprit Bumrah

&nbsp;

The Men in Blue lead the six-match series by 3-1 and looking forward to winning the series

Rohit Sharma’s hard-fought knock of 115 took India to 274-7 from their 50 overs during the fifth ODI against South Africa here on Tuesday. The South African bowlers, especially Lungi Ngidi (4/51), have brought the Proteas back into the game. After winning the toss, South Africa put India to bat. Shikhar Dhawan (34 runs) was the first to depart, but Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli put up a 105-run partnership for the fourth wicket. The Indian captain’s life at the field with the bat was short-lived as he departed for 36. Ajinkya Rahane (8) was the next to follow Kohli after another confusion between the wickets. Despite losing wickets in quick succession, Rohit carried on showing his batting prowess and went on to score his 17th ODI ton, hitting 10 boundaries and 4 sixes in the run-up to his century. South Africa will hope to chase down the total and stay alive in the series when they come out to bat. South Africa have won the toss and elected to bowl first in the 5th #SAvIND ODI in Port Elizabeth. Will they be able to restrict India and keep the series alive? Follow LIVE ➡️ https://t.co/BYzPaf9WOg pic.twitter.com/H7aT8euy2v — ICC (@ICC) February 13, 2018 × Squad: South Africa: Aiden Markram (c), Hashim Amla, Jean-Paul Duminy, AB de Villiers, David Miller, Heinrich Klaasen (wk), Andile Phehlukwayo, Kagiso Rabada, Lungisani Ngidi, Morne Morkel, Tabraiz Shamsi India: Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, Virat Kohli (c), Ajinkya Rahane, Shreyas Iyer, MS Dhoni (wk), Hardik Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Jasprit Bumrah

5th ODI: India beat South Africa by 73 runs, win series 4-1

England beat Australia in the second One Day International at the Gabba, Brisbane on Friday and now lead the series with 2-0.

Australia had won the toss and opted to bat. After restricting Australians to 270/9, the English achieved the total with 5.4 overs to spare.

Though Australia started off well, it was assumed that they would give a target of more than 300 runs but English bowlers struck and restricted the team at an achievable total of 270 runs.

For Australia, both the openers, Aaron Finch and David Warner made a good&nbsp;start, Finch slammed a century and David Warner scored 35 runs for the team before Moeen Ali had caught him at slip.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-david-warners-daughter-cheering-for-england-29956" target="_blank">Watch: David Warner&#39;s daughter cheering for England</a>

Joe Root had taken two very crucial wickets of Steve Smith and Travis Head for 18 and 7 respectively and Plunkett got another important wicket of Aaron Finch for 106 runs.

Adil Rashid trapped Mitchell Marsh and Marcus Stoinis LBW at 36 runs and 4 runs respectively and Chris Woakes brilliantly run out debutant Alex Carey for 27 runs and Andrew Tye for 3 runs.&nbsp;

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2-0! England&#39;s batsmen back up the work of the bowlers to chase down their target of 271 and win the 2nd <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvENG</a> ODI by 4 wickets.<a href="https://t.co/BQE9tjgWuh">https://t.co/BQE9tjgWuh</a> <a href="https://t.co/Wlp7oVPThb">pic.twitter.com/Wlp7oVPThb</a>
&mdash; ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/954304219124830209?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Aaron Finch was dominating fast bowlers, then English captain E Morgan turned to his spinners with immediate effect.

&quot;I thought our bowlers were exceptional,&quot; England captain Eoin Morgan said.

&quot;On a really hot day, they coped very well.&quot;

All of England&#39;s batsmen contributed to the run chase, which was always in control following a 117-run second wicket partnership between Jonny Bairstow (60) and Alex Hales (57).

Joss Buttler (42), Morgan (21) and Chris Woakes (39 not out) all made handy contributions, while Joe Root held the innings together with a measured 46 not out and got player of the match.

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A superb all round performance with both bat and ball sees <a href="https://twitter.com/root66?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@root66</a> win the Player of the Match award for the 2nd <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvENG</a> ODI. 
 
SCORECARD: <a href="https://t.co/BQE9tjgWuh">https://t.co/BQE9tjgWuh</a> <a href="https://t.co/EyRUuBaPyw">pic.twitter.com/EyRUuBaPyw</a>
&mdash; ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/954308561290579968?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
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After losing the game Smith conceded Australia were well beaten.

&quot;We&#39;re not playing good enough one day cricket at the moment,&quot; he said.

&quot;We were in a good position at 3-209 with 11 overs to go and we only scored 60 with seven wickets in hand,&quot; he added.

&quot;That&#39;s not enough against a quality English batting line up.&quot;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Joe Root held the innings together with a measured 46 not out and awarded player of the match

England beat Australia in the second One Day International at the Gabba, Brisbane on Friday and now lead the series with 2-0. Australia had won the toss and opted to bat. After restricting Australians to 270/9, the English achieved the total with 5.4 overs to spare. Though Australia started off well, it was assumed that they would give a target of more than 300 runs but English bowlers struck and restricted the team at an achievable total of 270 runs. For Australia, both the openers, Aaron Finch and David Warner made a good start, Finch slammed a century and David Warner scored 35 runs for the team before Moeen Ali had caught him at slip. Watch: David Warner's daughter cheering for England Joe Root had taken two very crucial wickets of Steve Smith and Travis Head for 18 and 7 respectively and Plunkett got another important wicket of Aaron Finch for 106 runs. Adil Rashid trapped Mitchell Marsh and Marcus Stoinis LBW at 36 runs and 4 runs respectively and Chris Woakes brilliantly run out debutant Alex Carey for 27 runs and Andrew Tye for 3 runs. 2-0! England's batsmen back up the work of the bowlers to chase down their target of 271 and win the 2nd #AUSvENG ODI by 4 wickets.https://t.co/BQE9tjgWuh pic.twitter.com/Wlp7oVPThb — ICC (@ICC) January 19, 2018 × Aaron Finch was dominating fast bowlers, then English captain E Morgan turned to his spinners with immediate effect. "I thought our bowlers were exceptional," England captain Eoin Morgan said. "On a really hot day, they coped very well." All of England's batsmen contributed to the run chase, which was always in control following a 117-run second wicket partnership between Jonny Bairstow (60) and Alex Hales (57). Joss Buttler (42), Morgan (21) and Chris Woakes (39 not out) all made handy contributions, while Joe Root held the innings together with a measured 46 not out and got player of the match. A superb all round performance with both bat and ball sees @root66 win the Player of the Match award for the 2nd #AUSvENG ODI. SCORECARD: https://t.co/BQE9tjgWuh pic.twitter.com/EyRUuBaPyw — ICC (@ICC) January 19, 2018 × After losing the game Smith conceded Australia were well beaten. "We're not playing good enough one day cricket at the moment," he said. "We were in a good position at 3-209 with 11 overs to go and we only scored 60 with seven wickets in hand," he added. "That's not enough against a quality English batting line up."

England beat Australia in second ODI, lead 2-0

The IPL 2018 auction will take place in Bengaluru on January 27 and 28 where a total of 578 players will go under the hammer.

A fierce bidding war is expected as Indian stars Gautam Gambhir, off-spinners Ravichandran Ashwin and Harbhajan Singh, Ajinkya Rahane, mystery spinner Kuldeep Yadav and openers KL Rahul and Murali Vijay will be on the franchises&rsquo; radar.

The list also includes the overseas players, including Glenn Maxwell, Chris Gayle, Shane Watson, Rashid Khan and Eoin Morgan.&nbsp;

In the 10th season, Mumbai Indians led by Rohit Sharma defeated Pune to lift the IPL trophy for the third time.

The 11th season of the much-awaited Indian Premier League will begin on 6th April 2018. &nbsp;

The opening ceremony of the tournament will take place on April 6 in Mumbai while the first match of the new season will be played at the same venue on April 7.

He further informed that the tournament will continue until May 27 with Mumbai once again hosting the final match.

Here is the complete list of players and their base price.

Base Price ₹2,00,00,000

Batsman 
KL Rahul, Murali Vijay, Brendon McCullum, Eoin Morgan, Cameron White, Chris Lynn, Colin Ingram

Bowler&nbsp; 
Josh Hazlewood, Rashid Khan Arman, Karn Sharma, Yuzvendra Singh Chahal, Mitchell Johnson, Liam Plunkett, Pat Cummins

Wicket Keeper 
Quinton De Kock, Dinesh Karthik, Robin Uthappa

All-Rounder 
James Faulkner, Marcus Stoinis, Chris Woakes, Angelo Mathews, David Willey, Corey Anderson, Kedar Jadhav

==========

Base Price ₹1,50,00,000

Batsman 
Aaron Finch, Jason Roy, Hashim Amla, Evin Lewis, Travis Head, Shaun Marsh, Michael Klinger, Lendl Simmons, David Miller

Bowler&nbsp; 
Kagiso Rabada, Trent Boult, Kyle Abbott, Kuldeep Singh Yadav, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Amit Mishra, Mohit Sharma, Nathan Lyon, Steven Finn, Harry Gurney, Mark Wood, Jaydev Unadkat

Wicket Keeper 
Jonny Bairstow, Jos Buttler, Peter Handscomb

All-Rounder 
Moises Henriques, Ravi Bopara, Jason Holder, Moeen Ali, M.S. Washington Sundar

==========

Base Price ₹1,00,00,000

Batsman 
Manish Pandey, Dwayne Smith, Alex Hales

Bowler&nbsp; 
Tymal Mills, Andrew Tye, Mohammed Siraj, Adam Zampa, Mohammad Shami, Dale Steyn, Mustafizur Rahman, Samuel Badree, Imran Tahir, Tim Southee, Jason Behrendorff, Mitchell McClenaghan, Lasith Malinga, Ranganath Vinay Kumar, Umesh Yadav, Piyush Chawla

Wicket Keeper 
Parthiv Patel, Wriddhiman Saha, Sanju Samson, Sam Billings &nbsp;&nbsp;

All-Rounder 
Daniel Christian, Carlos Brathwaite, Ben Cutting, Jean-Paul Duminy, Shane Watson, Chris Jordan, Tom Curran

==========

Base Price ₹75,00,000

Batsman 
Martin Guptill, Darren Bravo, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ross Taylor, Usman Khawaja &nbsp;&nbsp;

Bowler&nbsp; 
Peter Siddle, Jerome Taylor, Lockie Ferguson, Morne Morkel, Ishant Sharma, Shardul Narendra Thakur, Adam Milne, Marchant De Lange &nbsp;&nbsp;

Wicket Keeper 
Naman Ojha, Johnson Charles, Luke Ronchi &nbsp; &nbsp;

All-Rounder 
Darren Sammy, Colin De Grandhomme, Yusuf Pathan, Adil Rashid, Joe Denly, Samit Patel, Wayne Parnell

==========

Base Price ₹50,00,000

Batsman 
Reeza Hendricks, Mandeep Hardev Singh, Anton Devcich, Upul Tharanga, Karun Nair, Billy Stanlake, Joe Burns, Manoj Tiwary, Saurabh Tiwary, Tamim Khan, Aiden Markram, Faiz Fazal, Abhinav Mukund, Venugopal Rao, Dean Elgar, Najibullah Zadran &nbsp;&nbsp;

Bowler&nbsp; 
Ben Laughlin, Ronsford Beaton, Dhawal Kulkarni, Sandeep Sharma, Gulbadin Naib, Ish Sodhi, Duanne Olivier, Michael Beer, Sachithra Senanayaka, Dawlat Zadran, Aaron Phangiso, Beuran Hendricks, Lakshan Sandakan, Aravind Sreenath, Barinder Singh Sran, Sean Abbott, Ben Wheeler, Kesrick Williams, Lungisani Ngidi, Ashoke Dinda, Praveen Kumar, Mujeeb Zadran, Pragyan Ojha, Jhye Richardson, Rahul Sharma, Joel Paris, Varun Aaron, Parvinder Awana, Munaf Patel, Scott Boland, Dushmantha Chameera, Shannon Gabriel, Akila Dhananjaya, Keshav Maharaj, Dane Paterson, Ben Hilfenhaus, Seth Rance, Fawad Ahmed, Tabrez Shamsi, Neil Wagner, Shapoor Zadran, Abhimanyu Mithun, Sheldon Cottrell, Matt Henry, Nuwan Kulasekara, Suranga Lakmal, Manpreet Gony, Pankaj Singh, Sudeep Tyagi &nbsp;&nbsp;

Wicket Keeper 
Glenn Phillips, Denesh Ramdin, Niroshan Dickwella, Kusal Janith Perera, Nicolas Pooran, Alex Carey, Chadwick Walton, Tom Latham, M Shahzad Mohammadi, Shafiqullah Shafaq, Ambati Rayudu &nbsp;&nbsp;

All-Rounder 
Gurkeerat Singh Mann, John Hastings, Sikandar Butt, Graeme Cremer, Rishi Dhawan, Solomon Mire, Ryan McLaren, Parveez Rasool, Shabbir Rahaman, Vernon Philander, Abul Raju, Paul Stirling, Malcolm Waller, Dilshan Munaweera, Thisara Perera, Pawan Negi, Seekkuge Prasanna, Ashton Agar, Mohammad Nabi, Rahmat Shah Zarmatai, Dwaine Pretorius, David Wiese, Asela Gunarathna, Dhananjaya Silva, Andile Phehlukwayo, Jonathan Carter, Rovman Powell, Mitchell Santner, Jayant Yadav, Irfan Pathan, Marlon Samuels, Andre Fletcher, Stuart Binny, Hilton Cartwright, Dasun Shanka, Dawid Malan, Farhaan Behardien, Jon-Jon Trevor Smuts, Ashley Nurse, Scott Kuggeleijn, Robbie Frylinck, Wiaan Mulder, Colin Munro, Vaughn Van Jaarsveld, Rayad Emrit, Mohammad Mahmudullah, Isuru Udana

==========

Base Price ₹40,00,000

Batsman 
Tom Cooper

Bowler&nbsp; 
Thomas Helm, Mitchell Swepson, Shahbaz Nadeem, T Natarajan &nbsp;&nbsp;

Wicket Keeper 
Ishan Kishan

All-Rounder 
Rajat Bhatia, Kevon Cooper, Vijay Shankar, Krunal Pandya, Deepak Hooda, Michael Neser, Jofra Archer

==========

Base Price ₹30,00,000

Batsman 
Suryakumar Yadav, Christiaan Jonker, Vishnu Solanki, Alex Ross, Daniel Hughes &nbsp;&nbsp;

Bowler&nbsp; 
Iqbal Abdullah, Siddarth Kaul, Anureet Singh, Pradeep Sangwan, Basil Thampi, Gurvinder Singh, Aniket Choudhary, Ankit Singh Rajpoot &nbsp; &nbsp;

Wicket Keeper 
Ben McDermott &nbsp;

All-Rounder 
Cameron Delport, Javon Searless, Roshon Primus &nbsp;&nbsp;

==========

Base Price ₹20,00,000

Batsman 
Manprit Juneja, Mayank Siddana, Armaan Jaffer, Shivam Chauhan, Sachin Baby, Prithvi Shaw, Ankeet Bawane, Siddhesh Dinesh Lad, Apoorv Vijay Wankhade, Virat Singh, Marcus Harris, Ricky Bhui, Rassie Van der Dussen, Rajesh Bishnoi Sr, Paras Dogra, D.B Ravi Teja, Paul Valthaty, Amandeep Khare, Rinku Singh, Tanmay Agarwal, Ankit Lamba, Sarthak Ranjan, Priyank Panchal, Pratham Singh, Ishank Jaggi, Manjot Kalra, Anmolpreet Singh, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Sharad Lumba, Shubham Singh Rohilla, Himanshu Rana, Akshath Reddy, R Samarth, Mohammed Asaduddin, Abhinav Manohar, Rohan Marwaha, Rajat Patidar, Yash Sehrawat, Ravi Chauhan, Samit Gohil, Ramandeep Singh, Abhijeet Tomar, Jiwanjot Singh Chauhan, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Chirag Gandhi, Shubman Gill, Rahul Tripathi, Manan Vohra, Mayank Agarwal, Unmukt Chand &nbsp; &nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Bowler&nbsp; 
Syed Khaleel Ahmed, Nidheesh M D Dinesan, Junior Dala, Karan Thakur, Anurag Verma, Lizaad Williams, Tanveer Ulhaq, Kushang Patel, Shelly Shaurya, A. Aswin Crist, Aaron Summers, Royston Dias, Kartik Tyagi, Tejas Singh Baroka, Abu Nechim Ahmed, Rahul Shukla, Bhargav Bhatt, Shadab Jakati, Sarabjit Ladda, Pravin Tambe, Ben Dwarshuis, Ajit Chahal, Deepak Chaudhary, Pradeep Dadhe, Domnic Joseph Muthuswamy, Babasafi Pathan, Monu Singh, Pradeep Thippeswamy, Kuldip Yadav, Krishnappa Gowtham, K.C. Cariappa, Mihir Hirwani, Akshay Wakhare, Manjeetkumar Chaudhary, Kulwant Khejroliya, Lukman Iqbal Meriwala, Navdeep Saini, Vikas Tokas, Yuvraj Chudasama, Rahul Chahar, Ronit More, Veer Pratap Singh, Varun Khanna, Pawan Suyal, Sandeep Warrier, J Suchith, Ashish Hooda, R. Sai Kishore, Rahil S Shah, Harmeet Singh, Ishwar Chaudhary, Parikshit Valsangkar, Avesh Khan, Amit Mishra, Cheepurupalli Stephen, Rajwinder Singh, Shubek Gill, Vinay Choudhary, Mayank Markande, Zahir Khan Pakteen, Ankit Soni, Lalit Yadav, Pardeep Sahu, Chama Milind, Umar Nazir Mir, Yarra Raj, Oshane Thomas, Athisayaraj V, Zeeshan Ansari, Siddharth Desai, Jiyas K, Alexandar Rama Doss, Nathu Singh, M. Ashwin, Shivil Kaushik, Baltej Dhanda, Armaan Jain, Mohsin Khan, Mukesh Kumar Singh, Arshdeep Singh, Rishi Arothe, Asif K M, Ravi Kiran Majeti, Ishan Porel, Aditya Thakare, Sandeep Lamichhane, Subodh Bhati, Mohan Prasath, Abhishek Sakuja, Javed Khan, Ashok Sandhu, Tushar Deshpande, Sayan Ghosh, Jaskaran Singh, Prasidh Krishna, Rajneesh Gurbani &nbsp;

Wicket Keeper

Ankush Bains, C.M. Gautam, Aditya Tare, N Jagadeesan, Nikhil Shankar Naik, Smit Patel, K.B Arun Karthik, Kona Srikar Bharat, Shreevats Goswami, Mahesh Rawat, Gitansh Khera, Jitesh Sharma, Vishnu Vinod, Sheldon Jackson, Kedar Devdhar, Prashant Chopra, Anuj Rawat, Harvik Desai, Anmol Malhotra, Dhruv Raval, Rohith Ravikumar, Mohammad Nazim Siddiqui, Mayank Sidhu, Sandeep Kumar Tomar, Sadiq Hassan Kirmani, Jaskaranvir Singh Sohi, Abhishek Gupta, Hamza Tariq, Rahul Yadav, Kyle Mayers &nbsp; &nbsp;

All-Rounder

Vyshak Vijay Kumar, Jaydev Shah, Shashank Singh, Manzoor Dar, Aman Khan, Diwesh Pathania, Shamss Mulani, Salman Nizar, Dafedar, Khizar Anwar, Mandeep Singh, Shubham Ranjane, Sidhant Dobal, Vinod Kumar C.V., Thomas Kaber, Midhun S, Akhil Arvind Herwadkar, Shamar Springer, Ashok Menaria, Jack Wildermuth, Odean Smith, Yogesh Nagar, Milind Kumar, Shubham Agrawal, Akshdeep Nath, Yomahesh Kumar, Vivek Singh, Mohammed Bilal, Arun Chaprana, Rajat Paliwal, Abhimanyu Rana, Sarang Rawat, Fabid, Farook Ahmed, Arjun Sharma, Shreyas Gopal, Akash Sudan, Sandeep Bavanaka, Karan Kaila, Aryaman Vikram Birla, Gaurav Gambir, Ankit Kaushik, Patrick Kruger, Sohraab Dhaliwal, Aditya Sarvate, Amish Sidhu, Shadley Van Schalkwyk, Vignesh Moorthy, Arjun Nair, Kanishk Seth, Shivam Dubey, Hanuma Vihari, Puneet Datey, Ninad Rathva, Siddhant Sharma, Mrinank Singh, Manan Sharma, Chintan Gaja, Amit Mishra, Jalaj Saxena, Bipul Sharma, Shreekant Wagh, Syed, Mehdi Hasan, Harshal Patel, Sumit Ruikar, Ashish Reddy, Kuldeep Hooda, Shaurya Sanandia, Vaibhav Rawal, Pankaj Jaswal, Anustup Majumdar, Dhruv Shorey, Kshitiz Sharma, Swapnil Singh, Himmat Singh, Writtick Chatterjee, Chris Green, Ryan Ninan, Rohan Prem, Rahul Tewatia, Puneed Datey, R. Sanjay Yadav, Imtiaz Ahmed, Atit Sheth, Dinesh Salunkhe, Pavan Deshpande, Shivam Sharma, Chaitanya Bishnoi, Indrajith Baba, Jatin Saxena, Shivam Mavi, Sagar Trivedi, Amit Verma, Akash Parkar, Nitish Rana, Anukul Roy, Akash Bhandari, Pratyush Singh, Ankit Sharma, Anirudha Ashok Joshi, Saurabh Kumar, Praveen Dubey, Kunal Chandela, Aamir Gani, Pulkit Narang, Riyan Parag, Karanveer Singh, Sumeet Verma, Cameron Gannon, Akshay Karnewar, Tajinder Dhillon, Govinda Poddar, Rajesh Sharma, Deepak Chahar, Antony Dhas, Kishore Pramod Kamath, Nikhil Gangta, Jay Gokul Bista, Sumanth Bodapati, Mahipal Lomror, Deepak Punia, Mayank Dagar, Kamlesh Nagarkoti, Darcy Short, Baba Aparajith, Abhishek Sharma, Milind Tandon.

&nbsp;

The opening ceremony of the tournament will take place on April 6 in Mumbai while the first match of the new season will be played at the same venue on April 7

The IPL 2018 auction will take place in Bengaluru on January 27 and 28 where a total of 578 players will go under the hammer. A fierce bidding war is expected as Indian stars Gautam Gambhir, off-spinners Ravichandran Ashwin and Harbhajan Singh, Ajinkya Rahane, mystery spinner Kuldeep Yadav and openers KL Rahul and Murali Vijay will be on the franchises’ radar. The list also includes the overseas players, including Glenn Maxwell, Chris Gayle, Shane Watson, Rashid Khan and Eoin Morgan. In the 10th season, Mumbai Indians led by Rohit Sharma defeated Pune to lift the IPL trophy for the third time. The 11th season of the much-awaited Indian Premier League will begin on 6th April 2018. The opening ceremony of the tournament will take place on April 6 in Mumbai while the first match of the new season will be played at the same venue on April 7. He further informed that the tournament will continue until May 27 with Mumbai once again hosting the final match. Here is the complete list of players and their base price. Base Price ₹2,00,00,000 Batsman KL Rahul, Murali Vijay, Brendon McCullum, Eoin Morgan, Cameron White, Chris Lynn, Colin Ingram Bowler Josh Hazlewood, Rashid Khan Arman, Karn Sharma, Yuzvendra Singh Chahal, Mitchell Johnson, Liam Plunkett, Pat Cummins Wicket Keeper Quinton De Kock, Dinesh Karthik, Robin Uthappa All-Rounder James Faulkner, Marcus Stoinis, Chris Woakes, Angelo Mathews, David Willey, Corey Anderson, Kedar Jadhav ========== Base Price ₹1,50,00,000 Batsman Aaron Finch, Jason Roy, Hashim Amla, Evin Lewis, Travis Head, Shaun Marsh, Michael Klinger, Lendl Simmons, David Miller Bowler Kagiso Rabada, Trent Boult, Kyle Abbott, Kuldeep Singh Yadav, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Amit Mishra, Mohit Sharma, Nathan Lyon, Steven Finn, Harry Gurney, Mark Wood, Jaydev Unadkat Wicket Keeper Jonny Bairstow, Jos Buttler, Peter Handscomb All-Rounder Moises Henriques, Ravi Bopara, Jason Holder, Moeen Ali, M.S. Washington Sundar ========== Base Price ₹1,00,00,000 Batsman Manish Pandey, Dwayne Smith, Alex Hales Bowler Tymal Mills, Andrew Tye, Mohammed Siraj, Adam Zampa, Mohammad Shami, Dale Steyn, Mustafizur Rahman, Samuel Badree, Imran Tahir, Tim Southee, Jason Behrendorff, Mitchell McClenaghan, Lasith Malinga, Ranganath Vinay Kumar, Umesh Yadav, Piyush Chawla Wicket Keeper Parthiv Patel, Wriddhiman Saha, Sanju Samson, Sam Billings All-Rounder Daniel Christian, Carlos Brathwaite, Ben Cutting, Jean-Paul Duminy, Shane Watson, Chris Jordan, Tom Curran ========== Base Price ₹75,00,000 Batsman Martin Guptill, Darren Bravo, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ross Taylor, Usman Khawaja Bowler Peter Siddle, Jerome Taylor, Lockie Ferguson, Morne Morkel, Ishant Sharma, Shardul Narendra Thakur, Adam Milne, Marchant De Lange Wicket Keeper Naman Ojha, Johnson Charles, Luke Ronchi All-Rounder Darren Sammy, Colin De Grandhomme, Yusuf Pathan, Adil Rashid, Joe Denly, Samit Patel, Wayne Parnell ========== Base Price ₹50,00,000 Batsman Reeza Hendricks, Mandeep Hardev Singh, Anton Devcich, Upul Tharanga, Karun Nair, Billy Stanlake, Joe Burns, Manoj Tiwary, Saurabh Tiwary, Tamim Khan, Aiden Markram, Faiz Fazal, Abhinav Mukund, Venugopal Rao, Dean Elgar, Najibullah Zadran Bowler Ben Laughlin, Ronsford Beaton, Dhawal Kulkarni, Sandeep Sharma, Gulbadin Naib, Ish Sodhi, Duanne Olivier, Michael Beer, Sachithra Senanayaka, Dawlat Zadran, Aaron Phangiso, Beuran Hendricks, Lakshan Sandakan, Aravind Sreenath, Barinder Singh Sran, Sean Abbott, Ben Wheeler, Kesrick Williams, Lungisani Ngidi, Ashoke Dinda, Praveen Kumar, Mujeeb Zadran, Pragyan Ojha, Jhye Richardson, Rahul Sharma, Joel Paris, Varun Aaron, Parvinder Awana, Munaf Patel, Scott Boland, Dushmantha Chameera, Shannon Gabriel, Akila Dhananjaya, Keshav Maharaj, Dane Paterson, Ben Hilfenhaus, Seth Rance, Fawad Ahmed, Tabrez Shamsi, Neil Wagner, Shapoor Zadran, Abhimanyu Mithun, Sheldon Cottrell, Matt Henry, Nuwan Kulasekara, Suranga Lakmal, Manpreet Gony, Pankaj Singh, Sudeep Tyagi Wicket Keeper Glenn Phillips, Denesh Ramdin, Niroshan Dickwella, Kusal Janith Perera, Nicolas Pooran, Alex Carey, Chadwick Walton, Tom Latham, M Shahzad Mohammadi, Shafiqullah Shafaq, Ambati Rayudu All-Rounder Gurkeerat Singh Mann, John Hastings, Sikandar Butt, Graeme Cremer, Rishi Dhawan, Solomon Mire, Ryan McLaren, Parveez Rasool, Shabbir Rahaman, Vernon Philander, Abul Raju, Paul Stirling, Malcolm Waller, Dilshan Munaweera, Thisara Perera, Pawan Negi, Seekkuge Prasanna, Ashton Agar, Mohammad Nabi, Rahmat Shah Zarmatai, Dwaine Pretorius, David Wiese, Asela Gunarathna, Dhananjaya Silva, Andile Phehlukwayo, Jonathan Carter, Rovman Powell, Mitchell Santner, Jayant Yadav, Irfan Pathan, Marlon Samuels, Andre Fletcher, Stuart Binny, Hilton Cartwright, Dasun Shanka, Dawid Malan, Farhaan Behardien, Jon-Jon Trevor Smuts, Ashley Nurse, Scott Kuggeleijn, Robbie Frylinck, Wiaan Mulder, Colin Munro, Vaughn Van Jaarsveld, Rayad Emrit, Mohammad Mahmudullah, Isuru Udana ========== Base Price ₹40,00,000 Batsman Tom Cooper Bowler Thomas Helm, Mitchell Swepson, Shahbaz Nadeem, T Natarajan Wicket Keeper Ishan Kishan All-Rounder Rajat Bhatia, Kevon Cooper, Vijay Shankar, Krunal Pandya, Deepak Hooda, Michael Neser, Jofra Archer ========== Base Price ₹30,00,000 Batsman Suryakumar Yadav, Christiaan Jonker, Vishnu Solanki, Alex Ross, Daniel Hughes Bowler Iqbal Abdullah, Siddarth Kaul, Anureet Singh, Pradeep Sangwan, Basil Thampi, Gurvinder Singh, Aniket Choudhary, Ankit Singh Rajpoot Wicket Keeper Ben McDermott All-Rounder Cameron Delport, Javon Searless, Roshon Primus ========== Base Price ₹20,00,000 Batsman Manprit Juneja, Mayank Siddana, Armaan Jaffer, Shivam Chauhan, Sachin Baby, Prithvi Shaw, Ankeet Bawane, Siddhesh Dinesh Lad, Apoorv Vijay Wankhade, Virat Singh, Marcus Harris, Ricky Bhui, Rassie Van der Dussen, Rajesh Bishnoi Sr, Paras Dogra, D.B Ravi Teja, Paul Valthaty, Amandeep Khare, Rinku Singh, Tanmay Agarwal, Ankit Lamba, Sarthak Ranjan, Priyank Panchal, Pratham Singh, Ishank Jaggi, Manjot Kalra, Anmolpreet Singh, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Sharad Lumba, Shubham Singh Rohilla, Himanshu Rana, Akshath Reddy, R Samarth, Mohammed Asaduddin, Abhinav Manohar, Rohan Marwaha, Rajat Patidar, Yash Sehrawat, Ravi Chauhan, Samit Gohil, Ramandeep Singh, Abhijeet Tomar, Jiwanjot Singh Chauhan, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Chirag Gandhi, Shubman Gill, Rahul Tripathi, Manan Vohra, Mayank Agarwal, Unmukt Chand Bowler Syed Khaleel Ahmed, Nidheesh M D Dinesan, Junior Dala, Karan Thakur, Anurag Verma, Lizaad Williams, Tanveer Ulhaq, Kushang Patel, Shelly Shaurya, A. Aswin Crist, Aaron Summers, Royston Dias, Kartik Tyagi, Tejas Singh Baroka, Abu Nechim Ahmed, Rahul Shukla, Bhargav Bhatt, Shadab Jakati, Sarabjit Ladda, Pravin Tambe, Ben Dwarshuis, Ajit Chahal, Deepak Chaudhary, Pradeep Dadhe, Domnic Joseph Muthuswamy, Babasafi Pathan, Monu Singh, Pradeep Thippeswamy, Kuldip Yadav, Krishnappa Gowtham, K.C. Cariappa, Mihir Hirwani, Akshay Wakhare, Manjeetkumar Chaudhary, Kulwant Khejroliya, Lukman Iqbal Meriwala, Navdeep Saini, Vikas Tokas, Yuvraj Chudasama, Rahul Chahar, Ronit More, Veer Pratap Singh, Varun Khanna, Pawan Suyal, Sandeep Warrier, J Suchith, Ashish Hooda, R. Sai Kishore, Rahil S Shah, Harmeet Singh, Ishwar Chaudhary, Parikshit Valsangkar, Avesh Khan, Amit Mishra, Cheepurupalli Stephen, Rajwinder Singh, Shubek Gill, Vinay Choudhary, Mayank Markande, Zahir Khan Pakteen, Ankit Soni, Lalit Yadav, Pardeep Sahu, Chama Milind, Umar Nazir Mir, Yarra Raj, Oshane Thomas, Athisayaraj V, Zeeshan Ansari, Siddharth Desai, Jiyas K, Alexandar Rama Doss, Nathu Singh, M. Ashwin, Shivil Kaushik, Baltej Dhanda, Armaan Jain, Mohsin Khan, Mukesh Kumar Singh, Arshdeep Singh, Rishi Arothe, Asif K M, Ravi Kiran Majeti, Ishan Porel, Aditya Thakare, Sandeep Lamichhane, Subodh Bhati, Mohan Prasath, Abhishek Sakuja, Javed Khan, Ashok Sandhu, Tushar Deshpande, Sayan Ghosh, Jaskaran Singh, Prasidh Krishna, Rajneesh Gurbani Wicket Keeper Ankush Bains, C.M. Gautam, Aditya Tare, N Jagadeesan, Nikhil Shankar Naik, Smit Patel, K.B Arun Karthik, Kona Srikar Bharat, Shreevats Goswami, Mahesh Rawat, Gitansh Khera, Jitesh Sharma, Vishnu Vinod, Sheldon Jackson, Kedar Devdhar, Prashant Chopra, Anuj Rawat, Harvik Desai, Anmol Malhotra, Dhruv Raval, Rohith Ravikumar, Mohammad Nazim Siddiqui, Mayank Sidhu, Sandeep Kumar Tomar, Sadiq Hassan Kirmani, Jaskaranvir Singh Sohi, Abhishek Gupta, Hamza Tariq, Rahul Yadav, Kyle Mayers All-Rounder Vyshak Vijay Kumar, Jaydev Shah, Shashank Singh, Manzoor Dar, Aman Khan, Diwesh Pathania, Shamss Mulani, Salman Nizar, Dafedar, Khizar Anwar, Mandeep Singh, Shubham Ranjane, Sidhant Dobal, Vinod Kumar C.V., Thomas Kaber, Midhun S, Akhil Arvind Herwadkar, Shamar Springer, Ashok Menaria, Jack Wildermuth, Odean Smith, Yogesh Nagar, Milind Kumar, Shubham Agrawal, Akshdeep Nath, Yomahesh Kumar, Vivek Singh, Mohammed Bilal, Arun Chaprana, Rajat Paliwal, Abhimanyu Rana, Sarang Rawat, Fabid, Farook Ahmed, Arjun Sharma, Shreyas Gopal, Akash Sudan, Sandeep Bavanaka, Karan Kaila, Aryaman Vikram Birla, Gaurav Gambir, Ankit Kaushik, Patrick Kruger, Sohraab Dhaliwal, Aditya Sarvate, Amish Sidhu, Shadley Van Schalkwyk, Vignesh Moorthy, Arjun Nair, Kanishk Seth, Shivam Dubey, Hanuma Vihari, Puneet Datey, Ninad Rathva, Siddhant Sharma, Mrinank Singh, Manan Sharma, Chintan Gaja, Amit Mishra, Jalaj Saxena, Bipul Sharma, Shreekant Wagh, Syed, Mehdi Hasan, Harshal Patel, Sumit Ruikar, Ashish Reddy, Kuldeep Hooda, Shaurya Sanandia, Vaibhav Rawal, Pankaj Jaswal, Anustup Majumdar, Dhruv Shorey, Kshitiz Sharma, Swapnil Singh, Himmat Singh, Writtick Chatterjee, Chris Green, Ryan Ninan, Rohan Prem, Rahul Tewatia, Puneed Datey, R. Sanjay Yadav, Imtiaz Ahmed, Atit Sheth, Dinesh Salunkhe, Pavan Deshpande, Shivam Sharma, Chaitanya Bishnoi, Indrajith Baba, Jatin Saxena, Shivam Mavi, Sagar Trivedi, Amit Verma, Akash Parkar, Nitish Rana, Anukul Roy, Akash Bhandari, Pratyush Singh, Ankit Sharma, Anirudha Ashok Joshi, Saurabh Kumar, Praveen Dubey, Kunal Chandela, Aamir Gani, Pulkit Narang, Riyan Parag, Karanveer Singh, Sumeet Verma, Cameron Gannon, Akshay Karnewar, Tajinder Dhillon, Govinda Poddar, Rajesh Sharma, Deepak Chahar, Antony Dhas, Kishore Pramod Kamath, Nikhil Gangta, Jay Gokul Bista, Sumanth Bodapati, Mahipal Lomror, Deepak Punia, Mayank Dagar, Kamlesh Nagarkoti, Darcy Short, Baba Aparajith, Abhishek Sharma, Milind Tandon.

IPL auction: Complete players' list and their base price

The IPL 2018 auction will take place in Bengaluru on January 27 and 28 where a total of 578 players will go under the hammer with 282 overseas players.

The 11th edition of IPL will see many new faces and also the flow of money has increased but some old champions are still the favourites.

There are 16 players awarded marquee status and those are: Glenn Maxwell, Mitchell Starc, Benjamin Stokes, Ravichandran Ashwin, Shikhar Dhawan, Christopher Gayle, Kieron Pollard, Ajinkya Rahane, Dwayne Bravo, Gautam Gambhir, Harbhajan Singh, Kane Williamson, Faf Du Plessis, Joe Root, Shakib Al Hasan and Yuvraj Singh.

Ben Stokes was the most expensive bid in the last edition of IPL and even&nbsp;this year, he is eying big money.

Though Glenn Maxwell&nbsp;was axed from Australia&#39;s squad&nbsp;for the&nbsp;one-day international (ODI) series against England but he is definitely among most favourites.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/iplauction-complete-players-list-and-their-base-price-30869">Also</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/iplauction-complete-players-list-and-their-base-price-30869"> see the complete list of players and their base price.</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-become-most-expensive-player-in-ipl-history-kkr-ignored-gambhir-28570">Virat most expensive player in IPL history, KKR ignore Gambhir</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-retention-csk-returns-with-dhoni-rcb-retains-virat-28564">IPL retention: CSK returns with Dhoni, RCB retains Virat</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/meet-manzoor-ahmad-dar-jk-star-cricketer-eyeing-ipl-2018-contract-30773">Meet Manzoor Ahmad Dar, J&amp;K star cricketer eyeing IPL 2018 contract</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ahead-of-ipl-xi-auction-joe-root-pulls-out-of-englands-t20-tri-series-30465">Ahead of IPL XI auction, Joe Root pulls out of England&#39;s T20 tri-series</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2018-ms-dhoni-suresh-raina-retained-by-chennai-super-kings-28424">IPL 2018: MS Dhoni, Suresh Raina retained by Chennai Super Kings</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Some familiar names, some new names on our radar. We, the <a href="https://twitter.com/SunRisers?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SunRisers</a> have arrived in Bangalore for what promises to be the most interesting <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPLAuction?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPLAuction</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OrangeArmy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OrangeArmy</a> <a href="https://t.co/lwKjNNgJff">pic.twitter.com/lwKjNNgJff</a>
&mdash; VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) <a href="https://twitter.com/VVSLaxman281/status/956852935220064256?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
On the basis of a table draw this is how the 8 teams are seated at the VIVO <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPLAuction?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPLAuction</a> <a href="https://t.co/UDiG0oS6tS">pic.twitter.com/UDiG0oS6tS</a>
&mdash; IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/956920393507389441?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2018</a></blockquote>
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List of marquee players with their base price

A fierce bidding war is expected as Indian stars Gautam Gambhir, off-spinners Ravichandran Ashwin, Harbhajan Singh and Ajinkya Rahane&nbsp;will be on the franchises&rsquo; radar.

Glenn Maxwell&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;All-Rounder&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;₹2,00,00,000 
Benjamin Stokes&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;All-Rounder&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; ₹2,00,00,000 
Yuvraj Singh&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; All-Rounder&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; ₹2,00,00,000 
Mitchell Starc&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Bowler&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;₹2,00,00,000 
Ravichandran Ashwin&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;All-Rounder&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;₹2,00,00,000 
Shikhar Dhawan&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Batsman&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; ₹2,00,00,000 
Christopher Gayle&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Batsman&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;₹2,00,00,000 
Kieron Pollard&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;All-Rounder&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; ₹2,00,00,000 
Ajinkya Rahane&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Batsman&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;₹2,00,00,000 
Dwayne Bravo&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;All-Rounder&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;₹2,00,00,000 
Gautam Gambhir&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Batsman&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; ₹2,00,00,000 
Harbhajan Singh&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Bowler&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;₹2,00,00,000 
Kane Williamson&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Batsman&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; ₹1,50,00,000 
Faf Du Plessis&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Batsman&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;₹1,50,00,000 
Joe Root&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Batsman&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;₹1,50,00,000 
Shakib Al Hasan&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;All-Rounder&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;₹1,00,00,000

&nbsp;

A fierce bidding war is expected as Indian stars Gautam Gambhir, off-spinners Ravichandran Ashwin and Harbhajan Singh, Ajinkya Rahane will be on the franchises’ radar

The IPL 2018 auction will take place in Bengaluru on January 27 and 28 where a total of 578 players will go under the hammer with 282 overseas players. The 11th edition of IPL will see many new faces and also the flow of money has increased but some old champions are still the favourites. There are 16 players awarded marquee status and those are: Glenn Maxwell, Mitchell Starc, Benjamin Stokes, Ravichandran Ashwin, Shikhar Dhawan, Christopher Gayle, Kieron Pollard, Ajinkya Rahane, Dwayne Bravo, Gautam Gambhir, Harbhajan Singh, Kane Williamson, Faf Du Plessis, Joe Root, Shakib Al Hasan and Yuvraj Singh. Ben Stokes was the most expensive bid in the last edition of IPL and even this year, he is eying big money. Though Glenn Maxwell was axed from Australia's squad for the one-day international (ODI) series against England but he is definitely among most favourites. Also see the complete list of players and their base price. Virat most expensive player in IPL history, KKR ignore Gambhir IPL retention: CSK returns with Dhoni, RCB retains Virat Meet Manzoor Ahmad Dar, J&K star cricketer eyeing IPL 2018 contract Ahead of IPL XI auction, Joe Root pulls out of England's T20 tri-series IPL 2018: MS Dhoni, Suresh Raina retained by Chennai Super Kings Some familiar names, some new names on our radar. We, the @SunRisers have arrived in Bangalore for what promises to be the most interesting #IPLAuction #OrangeArmy pic.twitter.com/lwKjNNgJff — VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) January 26, 2018 × On the basis of a table draw this is how the 8 teams are seated at the VIVO #IPLAuction pic.twitter.com/UDiG0oS6tS — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) January 26, 2018 × List of marquee players with their base price A fierce bidding war is expected as Indian stars Gautam Gambhir, off-spinners Ravichandran Ashwin, Harbhajan Singh and Ajinkya Rahane will be on the franchises’ radar. Glenn Maxwell All-Rounder ₹2,00,00,000 Benjamin Stokes All-Rounder ₹2,00,00,000 Yuvraj Singh All-Rounder ₹2,00,00,000 Mitchell Starc Bowler ₹2,00,00,000 Ravichandran Ashwin All-Rounder ₹2,00,00,000 Shikhar Dhawan Batsman ₹2,00,00,000 Christopher Gayle Batsman ₹2,00,00,000 Kieron Pollard All-Rounder ₹2,00,00,000 Ajinkya Rahane Batsman ₹2,00,00,000 Dwayne Bravo All-Rounder ₹2,00,00,000 Gautam Gambhir Batsman ₹2,00,00,000 Harbhajan Singh Bowler ₹2,00,00,000 Kane Williamson Batsman ₹1,50,00,000 Faf Du Plessis Batsman ₹1,50,00,000 Joe Root Batsman ₹1,50,00,000 Shakib Al Hasan All-Rounder ₹1,00,00,000

IPL auction 2018: All eyes on marquee players

New Zealand inflicted a rare 5-0 one-day international series whitewash over Pakistan on Friday with a 15-run win at Wellington&#39;s Basin Reserve.

A century to Martin Guptill helped the Black Caps set a 272 total that proved too much for Pakistan after Matt Henry tore through their top order.

Pakistan was all out for 256 with one over remaining.

It is only the third time Pakistan has been on the wrong end of a 5-0 ODI clean sweep after they succumbed by the same margin to Australia in 2010 and the West Indies in 1988.

New Zealand has won by a 5-0 margin only once before when they hosted the West Indies in 2000.&nbsp;

The result extends New Zealand&#39;s winning streak in all forms of the game to 12 matches, a record for the team, and means they are undefeated at home since March last year.

Pakistan captain said his side, particularly the batsmen, had failed to take their chances.

&quot;The main thing is the batting has not clicked throughout the whole series, that&#39;s why we lost,&quot; he said.&nbsp;

&quot;The bowling unit was very good sometimes. We had opportunities but we didn&#39;t grab them.&quot;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
New Zealand wrapped up a whitewash in the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NZvPAK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NZvPAK</a> ODI series, but were made to work for it thanks to some lower order hitting. 
 
5th ODI RECAP: <a href="https://t.co/4iuQdtYfda">https://t.co/4iuQdtYfda</a> <a href="https://t.co/CYijGLrqc2">pic.twitter.com/CYijGLrqc2</a>
&mdash; ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/954503993467682816?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The target should have been achievable, given the short boundaries at the Basin Reserve, but speedster Matt Henry ensured Pakistan made a disastrous start.&nbsp;

Called up to give Trent Boult a break, Henry made the most of his opportunity to take three wickets in three overs and skittle the tourists&#39; top order.&nbsp;

He ended with figures of four for 53, while spinner Mitchell Santner took three for 40.&nbsp;

Pakistan slumped to 57 for five before Haris Sohail and Shadab Khan combined for a 105-run partnership that steadied the innings.&nbsp;

It ended when Sohail tried to loft the ball over the fence but misread Santner&#39;s slower delivery and instead offered Henry a straightforward catch.&nbsp;

His departure on 63, with Shadab following soon after on 54, seemingly ended Pakistan&#39;s faint hopes of victory.&nbsp;

But the tail wagged as Faheem Ashraf (23), Aamer Yamin (32) and Mohammad Nawaz (23) all made late cameos that left the tourists on nine for 249 and needing 23 off the final two overs.

The lack of wickets ultimately proved costly when Rumman Raees was dismissed with six balls remaining.

Earlier, Guptill scored his 13th ODI century, combining with Colin Munro to give the hosts a flying start before Rumman Raees helped spark a mini-collapse, taking three for 67.

Munro racked up 34 from 24 balls before edging Rumman to Mohammad Nawaz.

While Munro&#39;s departure slowed the run rate, Guptill was content to steadily accumulate.

He lost a life on 72 when he slipped over mid-wicket and Faheem Ashraf missed the stumps as the batsman scrambled back to the crease on his hands and knees.

It gave his innings greater urgency and he brought up his century off 125 balls, including 10 fours and a six.

After a frustrating morning, Pakistan&#39;s attack enjoyed some late success when they took four wickets for 12 runs.

Guptill was dismissed soon after he reached triple figures and Faheem clean-bowled Ross Taylor to end a threatening knock on 59.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-new-zealand-trounce-pakistan-in-1st-odi-28700" target="_blank">New Zealand vs Pakistan 1st ODI</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/new-zealand-vs-pakistan-2nd-odi-kiwis-won-by-8-wickets-28983">New Zealand vs Pakistan 2nd ODI</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/trent-boults-five-wicket-haul-steals-3rd-odi-series-from-pakistan-29393">New Zealand vs Pakistan 3rd ODI</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/new-zealand-vs-pakistan-4th-odi-grandhomme-shines-29760">New Zealand vs Pakistan 4th ODI</a>

&nbsp;

Martin Guptill slammed a century, scored 100 runs and awarded man of the match

New Zealand inflicted a rare 5-0 one-day international series whitewash over Pakistan on Friday with a 15-run win at Wellington's Basin Reserve. A century to Martin Guptill helped the Black Caps set a 272 total that proved too much for Pakistan after Matt Henry tore through their top order. Pakistan was all out for 256 with one over remaining. It is only the third time Pakistan has been on the wrong end of a 5-0 ODI clean sweep after they succumbed by the same margin to Australia in 2010 and the West Indies in 1988. New Zealand has won by a 5-0 margin only once before when they hosted the West Indies in 2000. The result extends New Zealand's winning streak in all forms of the game to 12 matches, a record for the team, and means they are undefeated at home since March last year. Pakistan captain said his side, particularly the batsmen, had failed to take their chances. "The main thing is the batting has not clicked throughout the whole series, that's why we lost," he said. "The bowling unit was very good sometimes. We had opportunities but we didn't grab them." New Zealand wrapped up a whitewash in the #NZvPAK ODI series, but were made to work for it thanks to some lower order hitting. 5th ODI RECAP: https://t.co/4iuQdtYfda pic.twitter.com/CYijGLrqc2 — ICC (@ICC) January 20, 2018 × The target should have been achievable, given the short boundaries at the Basin Reserve, but speedster Matt Henry ensured Pakistan made a disastrous start. Called up to give Trent Boult a break, Henry made the most of his opportunity to take three wickets in three overs and skittle the tourists' top order. He ended with figures of four for 53, while spinner Mitchell Santner took three for 40. Pakistan slumped to 57 for five before Haris Sohail and Shadab Khan combined for a 105-run partnership that steadied the innings. It ended when Sohail tried to loft the ball over the fence but misread Santner's slower delivery and instead offered Henry a straightforward catch. His departure on 63, with Shadab following soon after on 54, seemingly ended Pakistan's faint hopes of victory. But the tail wagged as Faheem Ashraf (23), Aamer Yamin (32) and Mohammad Nawaz (23) all made late cameos that left the tourists on nine for 249 and needing 23 off the final two overs. The lack of wickets ultimately proved costly when Rumman Raees was dismissed with six balls remaining. Earlier, Guptill scored his 13th ODI century, combining with Colin Munro to give the hosts a flying start before Rumman Raees helped spark a mini-collapse, taking three for 67. Munro racked up 34 from 24 balls before edging Rumman to Mohammad Nawaz. While Munro's departure slowed the run rate, Guptill was content to steadily accumulate. He lost a life on 72 when he slipped over mid-wicket and Faheem Ashraf missed the stumps as the batsman scrambled back to the crease on his hands and knees. It gave his innings greater urgency and he brought up his century off 125 balls, including 10 fours and a six. After a frustrating morning, Pakistan's attack enjoyed some late success when they took four wickets for 12 runs. Guptill was dismissed soon after he reached triple figures and Faheem clean-bowled Ross Taylor to end a threatening knock on 59. New Zealand vs Pakistan 1st ODI New Zealand vs Pakistan 2nd ODI New Zealand vs Pakistan 3rd ODI New Zealand vs Pakistan 4th ODI

New Zealand complete series whitewash over Pakistan

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