The president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Sourav Ganguly has been admitted to&nbsp;Apollo Hospital in Kolkata after he complained of chest pain on Wednesday.&nbsp;Further test reports suggest that Ganguly will need two more stents to be implanted and the angioplasty is likely to be conducted on Thursday in presence of noted cardiac surgeon Dr Devi Shetty.

According to reports, Ganguly had felt&nbsp;a slight pain in his chest on Tuesday but the pain increased on Wednesday&nbsp;and hence, he was shifted to the hospital without taking any further risks. He was rushed to the hospital for further check-up. He&nbsp;is currently stable and is likely to remain hospitalised for a couple of days.

"Dr Saptarshi Basu &amp; Dr Saroj Mondal of Woodlands hospital are attending Sourav Ganguly. Dr Aftab Khan will do the stenting at Apollo hospital tomorrow in presence of Dr Devi Shetty," said&nbsp;Woodlands Hospital in Kolkata in a statement.

Ganguly had suffered a mild heart attack earlier in January after which the former Indian captain was immediately admitted to Kolkata's Woodlands Hospital. Ganguly had suffered a sudden blackout during a workout session at his Behala resident on January 2.

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Angioplasty was successfully carried on Ganguly's right coronary artery after the 48-year-old suffered a cardiac arrest. However, the other two damaged arteries too needed angioplasty but the doctors, after consulting Ganguly and his family, decided that the procedure would be done at a later date.

Ganguly was diagnosed with three blocked coronary arteries after which a stent was inserted in one to remove the blockage.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-england-cricket-team-arrives-in-chennai-for-test-series-versus-india-359613" hreflang="en">IND vs ENG: England cricket team arrives in Chennai for Test series versus India</a>

<article>
Earlier in January, Ganguly was attended by noted cardiac surgeon Dr Devi Shetty, who had hinted that the 48-year-old may require an angioplasty at a later date but had confidently said that the former Indian captain can continue to work normally. The noted surgeon had said that the 48-year-old will be ready for next course of procedures or medical intervention after 2-3 weeks.

After being discharged from Woodlands Hospital in Kolkata, earlier in January, Ganguly had said:&nbsp;"I thank the doctors at the hospital for the treatment. I am absolutely fine. Hopefully, I will be ready to fly soon.
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The president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Sourav Ganguly has been admitted to Apollo Hospital in Kolkata after he complained of chest pain on Wednesday.

The president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Sourav Ganguly has been admitted to Apollo Hospital in Kolkata after he complained of chest pain on Wednesday. Further test reports suggest that Ganguly will need two more stents to be implanted and the angioplasty is likely to be conducted on Thursday in presence of noted cardiac surgeon Dr Devi Shetty. According to reports, Ganguly had felt a slight pain in his chest on Tuesday but the pain increased on Wednesday and hence, he was shifted to the hospital without taking any further risks. He was rushed to the hospital for further check-up. He is currently stable and is likely to remain hospitalised for a couple of days. "Dr Saptarshi Basu & Dr Saroj Mondal of Woodlands hospital are attending Sourav Ganguly. Dr Aftab Khan will do the stenting at Apollo hospital tomorrow in presence of Dr Devi Shetty," said Woodlands Hospital in Kolkata in a statement. Ganguly had suffered a mild heart attack earlier in January after which the former Indian captain was immediately admitted to Kolkata's Woodlands Hospital. Ganguly had suffered a sudden blackout during a workout session at his Behala resident on January 2. ALSO READ: IPL 2021 auction to be held on February 18 in Chennai Angioplasty was successfully carried on Ganguly's right coronary artery after the 48-year-old suffered a cardiac arrest. However, the other two damaged arteries too needed angioplasty but the doctors, after consulting Ganguly and his family, decided that the procedure would be done at a later date. Ganguly was diagnosed with three blocked coronary arteries after which a stent was inserted in one to remove the blockage. ALSO READ: IND vs ENG: England cricket team arrives in Chennai for Test series versus India Earlier in January, Ganguly was attended by noted cardiac surgeon Dr Devi Shetty, who had hinted that the 48-year-old may require an angioplasty at a later date but had confidently said that the former Indian captain can continue to work normally. The noted surgeon had said that the 48-year-old will be ready for next course of procedures or medical intervention after 2-3 weeks. After being discharged from Woodlands Hospital in Kolkata, earlier in January, Ganguly had said: "I thank the doctors at the hospital for the treatment. I am absolutely fine. Hopefully, I will be ready to fly soon.

Sourav Ganguly admitted to hospital again, to undergo another angioplasty on Thursday

Pakistan batsman Fawad&nbsp;Alam&nbsp;on Wednesday scored a terrific century against South Africa in the first Test of the series at the National Stadium in Karachi. Fawad, with his third Test century, joined England&nbsp;all-rounder Ravi&nbsp;Bopara&nbsp;in an exclusive club.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Fawad and&nbsp;Bopara, both have converted all of their half-centuries into centuries – a feat achieved only by these two in Test cricket thrice. Fawad, who made his Test debut in 2009 for Pakistan, was not picked in the Test team for over 10 years before he featured for Pakistan in Test match in 2020, against England. While the duo don't have a single Test half-century to their names, they both have three Test centuries.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-president-sourav-ganguly-admitted-to-hospital-again-after-chest-pain-359632" hreflang="en">BCCI president Sourav Ganguly admitted to hospital again after chest pain</a>

The southpaw, with a unique technique, had slammed his maiden Test ton in his debut Test against Sri Lanka in 2009 before getting his second Test ton against New Zealand in Mount Maunganui in August 2020. He&nbsp;continues his good run of form at his home ground in Karachi to rescue Pakistan from a tough situation and convert his another fifty into hundred.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Whereas&nbsp;Bopara&nbsp;had slammed his three Test tons during West Indies' tour of England in 2009, in Bridgetown,&nbsp;Lord's and&nbsp;Chester-le-Street.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-england-cricket-team-arrives-in-chennai-for-test-series-versus-india-359613" hreflang="en">IND vs ENG: England cricket team arrives in Chennai for Test series versus India</a>

Meanwhile, Fawad came into bat at a time when Pakistan&nbsp;were&nbsp;struggling on 27/4. The southpaw held his ground and stitched partnerships with Azhar Ali and Mohammed Rizwan before helping Pakistan take the first-innings lead with Faheem Ashraf.&nbsp;&nbsp;

South Africa, on Day 1 of the Karachi Test, looked to have an advantage in the game but Fawad's knock has forced Proteas to&nbsp;the&nbsp;back-foot.&nbsp;Pakistan have already taken a 50+ lead in the first innings with a set Fawad&nbsp;Alam&nbsp;and Faheem Ashraf in the middle for the hosts.&nbsp;

Pakistan batsman Fawad Alam on Wednesday scored a terrific century against South Africa in the first Test of the series at the National Stadium in Karachi. Fawad, with his third Test century, joined England all-rounder Ravi Bopara in an exclusive club.

Pakistan batsman Fawad Alam on Wednesday scored a terrific century against South Africa in the first Test of the series at the National Stadium in Karachi. Fawad, with his third Test century, joined England all-rounder Ravi Bopara in an exclusive club. Fawad and Bopara, both have converted all of their half-centuries into centuries – a feat achieved only by these two in Test cricket thrice. Fawad, who made his Test debut in 2009 for Pakistan, was not picked in the Test team for over 10 years before he featured for Pakistan in Test match in 2020, against England. While the duo don't have a single Test half-century to their names, they both have three Test centuries. ALSO READ: BCCI president Sourav Ganguly admitted to hospital again after chest pain The southpaw, with a unique technique, had slammed his maiden Test ton in his debut Test against Sri Lanka in 2009 before getting his second Test ton against New Zealand in Mount Maunganui in August 2020. He continues his good run of form at his home ground in Karachi to rescue Pakistan from a tough situation and convert his another fifty into hundred. Whereas Bopara had slammed his three Test tons during West Indies' tour of England in 2009, in Bridgetown, Lord's and Chester-le-Street. ALSO READ: IND vs ENG: England cricket team arrives in Chennai for Test series versus India Meanwhile, Fawad came into bat at a time when Pakistan were struggling on 27/4. The southpaw held his ground and stitched partnerships with Azhar Ali and Mohammed Rizwan before helping Pakistan take the first-innings lead with Faheem Ashraf. South Africa, on Day 1 of the Karachi Test, looked to have an advantage in the game but Fawad's knock has forced Proteas to the back-foot. Pakistan have already taken a 50+ lead in the first innings with a set Fawad Alam and Faheem Ashraf in the middle for the hosts.

Pakistan's Fawad Alam joins Ravi Bopara in exclusive club after third Test century

The players auction for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 is all set to be held on February 18 in Chennai. The official Twitter handle of Indian Premier League on Wednesday&nbsp;confirmed that the mini-auction will be held on February 18 while also confirming the venue of the event.&nbsp;&nbsp;

With IPL 2021 retention deadline day bringing plenty of action in regards to franchises retaining and releasing their respective players, the IPL 2021 mini-auction is expected to provide&nbsp;thrilling action as teams look to bolster their squads ahead of the much-awaited 14th&nbsp;season of IPL. The IPL 2021 trading window is set to end on February 4.&nbsp;

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🚨ALERT🚨: IPL 2021 Player Auction on 18th February🗓️ 
 
Venue 📍: Chennai 
 
How excited are you for this year's Player Auction? 😎👍 
 
Set your reminder folks 🕰️ <a href="https://t.co/xCnUDdGJCa">pic.twitter.com/xCnUDdGJCa</a>
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However, the BCCI is still undecided on whether the IPL 2021 will be held in India or not. But the priority for the Indian board remains that the lucrative T20 tournament happens in India.&nbsp;&nbsp;

IPL 2020 was taken abroad, to the United Arab Emirates, in September-November due to the COVID-19 pandemic as the BCCI successfully pulled off the multi-team tournament without a hitch.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-australia-confirms-indian-players-racially-abused-at-the-scg-359597" hreflang="en">Cricket Australia confirms Indian players racially abused at the SCG</a>

Smooth conduct of India's full-fledged home series against England, scheduled to start from February 5, should pave the way for the cash-rich tournament to be held at home.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Meanwhile, elite players like Steve Smith, Glenn Maxwell, Chris Morris among others were released from their respective franchise on the IPL 2021 retention deadline.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Mumbai Indians won the IPL 2020 after a splendid show in the UAE as the Rohit Sharma-led outfit lifted a record fifth IPL trophy.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-england-cricket-team-arrives-in-chennai-for-test-series-versus-india-359613" hreflang="en">IND vs ENG: England cricket team arrives in Chennai for Test series versus India</a>

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{4c81c94e-6116-42f2-8275-77ae3f3f3ac6}{89}" paraid="1245299158" >Retained players list of all IPL 2021 franchise:&nbsp;</h2>

List of retained players by Royal Challengers Bangalore: Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers,&nbsp;Yuzvendra&nbsp;Chahal, Devdutt&nbsp;Padikkal, Josh Philippe, Mohammad Siraj, Washington Sundar, Navdeep Saini, Shahbaz Ahmed, Pavan Deshpande, Adam Zampa, Kane Richardson&nbsp;

List of retained players by Chennai Super Kings: N Jagadeesan, R Gaikwad, KM Asif, R Jadeja, MS Dhoni, J&nbsp;Hazlewood, K Sharma, A Rayudu, S Raina, I Tahir, D Chahar,&nbsp;Faf&nbsp;du Plessis, S Thakur, M Santner, D Bravo, L Ngidi, S Curran, S Kishore.&nbsp;

List of retained players by Kings XI Punjab: KL Rahul, Gayle, Pooran, Shami, Jordan, Mandeep, Mayank, Bishnoi,&nbsp;Prabhsimran, Hooda, Sarfaraz, Arshdeep, M Ashwin, Arshdeep, Porel, Harpreet&nbsp;

List of retained players by Sunrisers Hyderabad: David Warner (c), Abhishek Sharma, Basil Thampi, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jonny Bairstow, Kane Williamson, Manish Pandey, Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan, Sandeep Sharma, Shahbaz Nadeem,&nbsp;Shreevats&nbsp;Goswami, Siddarth Kaul, Khaleel Ahmed, T Natarajan, Vijay Shankar, Wriddhiman Saha, Abdul Samad, Mitchell Marsh, Priyam Garg, Virat Singh&nbsp;

List of retained players by Kolkata Knight Riders: Dinesh Karthik, Nitish Rana, Shubman Gill, Rinku Singh, Eoin Morgan, Rahul Tripathi, Sunil Narine, Andre Russell, Pat Cummins, Varun Chakravarthy, Lockie Ferguson, Kuldeep Yadav, Kamlesh&nbsp;Nagarkoti, Shivam Mavi, Prasidh Krishna, Harry Gurney, Sandeep Warrier.&nbsp;

List of retained players by Rajasthan Royals: Robin Uthappa, Mahipal&nbsp;Lomror, Manan Vohra, Riyan Parag, Mayank&nbsp;Markande, Shreyas Gopal, Varun Aaron, Jaydev Unadkat, Kartik Tyagi, Akash Singh, Rahul&nbsp;Tewatia, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sanju Samson, Anuj Rawat, David Miller, Jofra Archer, Andrew Tye, Ben Stokes, Tom Curran, Jos Buttler.&nbsp;

List of retained players by Mumbai Indians: Rohit Sharma (c), Suryakumar Yadav,&nbsp;Anmolpreet&nbsp;Singh, Saurabh Tiwary, Dhawal Kulkarni, Jasprit&nbsp;Bumrah, Rahul Chahar, Hardik Pandya, Jayant Yadav, Krunal Pandya, Anukul Roy, Ishan Kishan, Aditya Tare, Chris Lynn, Trent Boult, Kieron Pollard, Quinton de Kock.&nbsp;

List of retained players by Delhi Capitals: Shreyas Iyer, Ajinkya Rahane, Shikhar Dhawan, Prithvi Shaw, Rishabh Pant, Shimron Hetmyer,&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;Patel,&nbsp;Stoinis, Lalit Yadav, Chris&nbsp;Woakes, Pravin Dubey, Amit Mishra, Kagiso&nbsp;Rabada, Ishant Sharma, R. Ashwin, Avesh Khan, Anrich Nortje.&nbsp;

The players auction for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 is all set to be held on February 18 in Chennai. The official Twitter handle of Indian Premier League on Wednesday confirmed that the mini-auction will be held on February 18 while also confirming the venue of the event.

The players auction for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 is all set to be held on February 18 in Chennai. The official Twitter handle of Indian Premier League on Wednesday confirmed that the mini-auction will be held on February 18 while also confirming the venue of the event. With IPL 2021 retention deadline day bringing plenty of action in regards to franchises retaining and releasing their respective players, the IPL 2021 mini-auction is expected to provide thrilling action as teams look to bolster their squads ahead of the much-awaited 14th season of IPL. The IPL 2021 trading window is set to end on February 4. 🚨ALERT🚨: IPL 2021 Player Auction on 18th February🗓️ Venue 📍: Chennai How excited are you for this year's Player Auction? 😎👍 Set your reminder folks 🕰️ pic.twitter.com/xCnUDdGJCa — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) January 27, 2021 × However, the BCCI is still undecided on whether the IPL 2021 will be held in India or not. But the priority for the Indian board remains that the lucrative T20 tournament happens in India. IPL 2020 was taken abroad, to the United Arab Emirates, in September-November due to the COVID-19 pandemic as the BCCI successfully pulled off the multi-team tournament without a hitch. ALSO READ: Cricket Australia confirms Indian players racially abused at the SCG Smooth conduct of India's full-fledged home series against England, scheduled to start from February 5, should pave the way for the cash-rich tournament to be held at home. Meanwhile, elite players like Steve Smith, Glenn Maxwell, Chris Morris among others were released from their respective franchise on the IPL 2021 retention deadline. Mumbai Indians won the IPL 2020 after a splendid show in the UAE as the Rohit Sharma-led outfit lifted a record fifth IPL trophy. ALSO READ: IND vs ENG: England cricket team arrives in Chennai for Test series versus India Retained players list of all IPL 2021 franchise: List of retained players by Royal Challengers Bangalore: Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers, Yuzvendra Chahal, Devdutt Padikkal, Josh Philippe, Mohammad Siraj, Washington Sundar, Navdeep Saini, Shahbaz Ahmed, Pavan Deshpande, Adam Zampa, Kane Richardson List of retained players by Chennai Super Kings: N Jagadeesan, R Gaikwad, KM Asif, R Jadeja, MS Dhoni, J Hazlewood, K Sharma, A Rayudu, S Raina, I Tahir, D Chahar, Faf du Plessis, S Thakur, M Santner, D Bravo, L Ngidi, S Curran, S Kishore. List of retained players by Kings XI Punjab: KL Rahul, Gayle, Pooran, Shami, Jordan, Mandeep, Mayank, Bishnoi, Prabhsimran, Hooda, Sarfaraz, Arshdeep, M Ashwin, Arshdeep, Porel, Harpreet List of retained players by Sunrisers Hyderabad: David Warner (c), Abhishek Sharma, Basil Thampi, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jonny Bairstow, Kane Williamson, Manish Pandey, Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan, Sandeep Sharma, Shahbaz Nadeem, Shreevats Goswami, Siddarth Kaul, Khaleel Ahmed, T Natarajan, Vijay Shankar, Wriddhiman Saha, Abdul Samad, Mitchell Marsh, Priyam Garg, Virat Singh List of retained players by Kolkata Knight Riders: Dinesh Karthik, Nitish Rana, Shubman Gill, Rinku Singh, Eoin Morgan, Rahul Tripathi, Sunil Narine, Andre Russell, Pat Cummins, Varun Chakravarthy, Lockie Ferguson, Kuldeep Yadav, Kamlesh Nagarkoti, Shivam Mavi, Prasidh Krishna, Harry Gurney, Sandeep Warrier. List of retained players by Rajasthan Royals: Robin Uthappa, Mahipal Lomror, Manan Vohra, Riyan Parag, Mayank Markande, Shreyas Gopal, Varun Aaron, Jaydev Unadkat, Kartik Tyagi, Akash Singh, Rahul Tewatia, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sanju Samson, Anuj Rawat, David Miller, Jofra Archer, Andrew Tye, Ben Stokes, Tom Curran, Jos Buttler. List of retained players by Mumbai Indians: Rohit Sharma (c), Suryakumar Yadav, Anmolpreet Singh, Saurabh Tiwary, Dhawal Kulkarni, Jasprit Bumrah, Rahul Chahar, Hardik Pandya, Jayant Yadav, Krunal Pandya, Anukul Roy, Ishan Kishan, Aditya Tare, Chris Lynn, Trent Boult, Kieron Pollard, Quinton de Kock. List of retained players by Delhi Capitals: Shreyas Iyer, Ajinkya Rahane, Shikhar Dhawan, Prithvi Shaw, Rishabh Pant, Shimron Hetmyer, Axar Patel, Stoinis, Lalit Yadav, Chris Woakes, Pravin Dubey, Amit Mishra, Kagiso Rabada, Ishant Sharma, R. Ashwin, Avesh Khan, Anrich Nortje.

IPL 2021 auction to be held on February 18 in Chennai

Members of the England cricket team including captain Joe Root on Wednesday landed in Chennai, India for the impending four-Test series with the first two matches scheduled to be played in the capital of Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;The England team flew in from Sri Lanka at around 10:30 am and headed to the hotel where the members of the two teams will be staying as part of the bio-secure bubble.&nbsp;

The England team are heading into the highly-anticipated series after an incredible 2-0 win over Sri Lanka where skipper Root slammed two massive tons. Star all-rounder Ben Stokes and pacer Jofra Archer had already arrived in Chennai on Sunday and are already in quarantine.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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📍 Chennai, India<a href="https://twitter.com/root66?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@root66</a> and the team have arrived in India ahead of our four-match Test series 🇮🇳🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 <a href="https://t.co/GT06p9Ru4u">pic.twitter.com/GT06p9Ru4u</a>
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While a few Indian players including the likes of Test vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane, Rohit Sharma arrived in the southern city on Tuesday, others such as Cheteshwar Pujara, Jasprit&nbsp;Bumrah&nbsp;and Rishabh Pant reached Chennai on Wednesday morning. Indian skipper Virat Kohli is set to arrive in the city later on Wednesday.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-australia-confirms-indian-players-racially-abused-at-the-scg-359597" hreflang="en">Cricket Australia confirms Indian players racially abused at the SCG</a>

Both India and England will be staying at the Hotel Leela Palace in a bio-secure bubble as part of the quarantine protocols and will undergo testing for COVID-19. The players will be in quarantine for six days and are scheduled to start&nbsp;practising&nbsp;from February 2.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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Tamil Nadu: England Cricket team and staff arrive at Chennai Airport. The first Test of the four-match series between India and England will begin on 5th February at MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a> <a href="https://t.co/NpWLJPIcnn">pic.twitter.com/NpWLJPIcnn</a>
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The first Test is due to be played at the MA Chidambaram Stadium from February 5 with the second scheduled from February 14.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-introduces-player-of-the-month-awards-siraj-ashwin-root-in-contention-among-others-359603" hreflang="en">ICC introduces Player of the Month awards; Siraj, Ashwin, Root in contention among others</a>

It will be a homecoming of Test matches in Chennai after the city last hosted the longest format of the game in December 2016 against England. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the first two matches of the Test series will be played behind closed doors and call&nbsp;over crowds&nbsp;on remaining matches&nbsp;will be taken at a later stage by the BCCI.&nbsp;

Members of the England cricket team including captain Joe Root on Wednesday landed in Chennai, India for the impending four-Test series with the first two matches scheduled to be played in the capital of Tamil Nadu.

Members of the England cricket team including captain Joe Root on Wednesday landed in Chennai, India for the impending four-Test series with the first two matches scheduled to be played in the capital of Tamil Nadu. The England team flew in from Sri Lanka at around 10:30 am and headed to the hotel where the members of the two teams will be staying as part of the bio-secure bubble. The England team are heading into the highly-anticipated series after an incredible 2-0 win over Sri Lanka where skipper Root slammed two massive tons. Star all-rounder Ben Stokes and pacer Jofra Archer had already arrived in Chennai on Sunday and are already in quarantine. 📍 Chennai, India@root66 and the team have arrived in India ahead of our four-match Test series 🇮🇳🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 pic.twitter.com/GT06p9Ru4u — England Cricket (@englandcricket) January 27, 2021 × While a few Indian players including the likes of Test vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane, Rohit Sharma arrived in the southern city on Tuesday, others such as Cheteshwar Pujara, Jasprit Bumrah and Rishabh Pant reached Chennai on Wednesday morning. Indian skipper Virat Kohli is set to arrive in the city later on Wednesday. ALSO READ: Cricket Australia confirms Indian players racially abused at the SCG Both India and England will be staying at the Hotel Leela Palace in a bio-secure bubble as part of the quarantine protocols and will undergo testing for COVID-19. The players will be in quarantine for six days and are scheduled to start practising from February 2. Tamil Nadu: England Cricket team and staff arrive at Chennai Airport. The first Test of the four-match series between India and England will begin on 5th February at MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. #INDvENG pic.twitter.com/NpWLJPIcnn — ANI (@ANI) January 27, 2021 × The first Test is due to be played at the MA Chidambaram Stadium from February 5 with the second scheduled from February 14. ALSO READ: ICC introduces Player of the Month awards; Siraj, Ashwin, Root in contention among others It will be a homecoming of Test matches in Chennai after the city last hosted the longest format of the game in December 2016 against England. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the first two matches of the Test series will be played behind closed doors and call over crowds on remaining matches will be taken at a later stage by the BCCI.

IND vs ENG: England cricket team arrives in Chennai for Test series versus India

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Wednesday announced the introduction of the ICC Player of the Month awards which will recognise and celebrate the best performances of both male and female cricketers across all forms of international cricket throughout the year.

An independent ICC Voting Academy comprising former players, broadcasters, and journalists from around the world, will team up with fans to vote for the ICC Men’s Player of the Month and ICC Women’s Player of the Month.

Fans have been treated to some sensational cricketing performances during the month of January making the inaugural player of the month awards a highly competitive affair. From performances from youngsters such as Mohammed Siraj (IND), Washington Sundar (IND), T. Natarajan (IND), Rishabh Pant (IND), Rahmanullah Gurbaz (AFG) to established players such as Ravichandran Ashwin (IND), Joe Root (ENG), Steve Smith (AUS), Marizanne Kapp (SA), Nadine de Klerk (SA), Nida Dar (PAK), there will be no shortage of candidates for the month of January.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-australia-confirms-indian-players-racially-abused-at-the-scg-359597" hreflang="en">Cricket Australia confirms Indian players racially abused at the SCG</a>

Geoff Allardice, ICC General Manager – Cricket&nbsp;said: “The ICC Player of the Month is a great way to connect with fans of the sport and celebrate performances of their favourite players through the year. It gives us all an opportunity to acknowledge world-class performances on the field by male and female cricketers and they have been in abundance throughout January.”

<h2>The nomination and voting process:</h2>

The three nominees for each of the categories will be determined by the ICC Awards Nominations Committee based on on-field performances and overall achievements during the period of that month (the first to the last day of each calendar month.)

This shortlist is then voted for by the independent ICC Voting Academy and fans around the world. The ICC Voting Academy comprising prominent members of the cricket family including senior journalists, former players, and broadcasters.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/icc-announces-decade-awards-from-kohli-smith-to-perry-heres-complete-list-of-winners-352996" hreflang="en">ICC announces Decade Awards: From Kohli, Smith to Perry - Here's complete list of winners</a>

The Voting Academy will submit their votes by email and will retain a 90% share of the vote. Subsequently, on the 1st day of each month, fans registered with the ICC will be able to submit votes via the ICC website and will have a 10% share of the vote. Winners will be announced every second Monday of the month on the ICC’s digital channels.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Wednesday announced the introduction of the ICC Player of the Month awards which will recognise and celebrate the best performances of both male and female cricketers across all forms of international cricket throughout the year.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Wednesday announced the introduction of the ICC Player of the Month awards which will recognise and celebrate the best performances of both male and female cricketers across all forms of international cricket throughout the year. An independent ICC Voting Academy comprising former players, broadcasters, and journalists from around the world, will team up with fans to vote for the ICC Men’s Player of the Month and ICC Women’s Player of the Month. Fans have been treated to some sensational cricketing performances during the month of January making the inaugural player of the month awards a highly competitive affair. From performances from youngsters such as Mohammed Siraj (IND), Washington Sundar (IND), T. Natarajan (IND), Rishabh Pant (IND), Rahmanullah Gurbaz (AFG) to established players such as Ravichandran Ashwin (IND), Joe Root (ENG), Steve Smith (AUS), Marizanne Kapp (SA), Nadine de Klerk (SA), Nida Dar (PAK), there will be no shortage of candidates for the month of January. ALSO READ: Cricket Australia confirms Indian players racially abused at the SCG Geoff Allardice, ICC General Manager – Cricket said: “The ICC Player of the Month is a great way to connect with fans of the sport and celebrate performances of their favourite players through the year. It gives us all an opportunity to acknowledge world-class performances on the field by male and female cricketers and they have been in abundance throughout January.” The nomination and voting process: The three nominees for each of the categories will be determined by the ICC Awards Nominations Committee based on on-field performances and overall achievements during the period of that month (the first to the last day of each calendar month.) This shortlist is then voted for by the independent ICC Voting Academy and fans around the world. The ICC Voting Academy comprising prominent members of the cricket family including senior journalists, former players, and broadcasters. ALSO READ: ICC announces Decade Awards: From Kohli, Smith to Perry - Here's complete list of winners The Voting Academy will submit their votes by email and will retain a 90% share of the vote. Subsequently, on the 1st day of each month, fans registered with the ICC will be able to submit votes via the ICC website and will have a 10% share of the vote. Winners will be announced every second Monday of the month on the ICC’s digital channels.

ICC introduces Player of the Month awards; Siraj, Ashwin, Root in contention among others

Fast bowler Kagiso Rabada took two wickets for just eight runs as he led a South African fightback against Pakistan in their first Test in Karachi Tuesday.

Pakistan were in trouble at 33 for four at the close of play, having bowled out the visitors for 220 -- their second-lowest total in the country.

Fourteen wickets fell on the brownish National Stadium pitch, which had been expected to take spin from day one.&nbsp;

South Africa were well placed at 108-2 soon after lunch, but lost their last eight wickets for just 112 runs -- barely managing to overhaul their lowest total in Pakistan, the 214 made at Faisalabad in 1997.&nbsp;

Spinners Yasir Shah (3-54), debutant Nauman Ali (2-38) and pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi (2-49) did the damage.

But then Rabada paid back the hosts with interest, bowling Abid Ali (four) in his third over and then getting debutant Imran Butt (nine) caught at leg-slip off a rising delivery.

He now has 199 wickets from 44 Tests.

Babar Azam, leading Pakistan for the first time in a Test, fell lbw to spinner Keshav Maharaj for seven before night watchman Shaheen was bowled by Anrich Nortje without scoring.&nbsp;

At the close, Azhar Ali and Fawad Alam were unbeaten on five each - with Pakistan trailing by 187 runs with six wickets intact.

Earlier, opener Dean Elgar top-scored for South Africa with 58, while George Linde (35) and Rabada (21 not out) were other notable contributors.

While lamenting his side's poor batting, Elgar said South Africa now had the upper hand.

"I would not have said that after our batting, but then we fought back by taking wickets," he said.

"Knowing that this pitch will get tougher, and knowing that we have good spinners, I am confident that we can get further ahead."

Elgar struck his 16th Test half-century -- laced with nine boundaries -- before he edged Nauman into the hands of Azam at slip.

Elgar and Faf du Plessis (23) had steadied the innings during their 45-run stand for the third wicket after Aiden Markram (13) and Rassie van der Dussen (17) were dismissed in the first session.

Both sides entered the Test with two spinners and three pace bowlers.

The two-match series marks the first tour by South Africa to Pakistan in 14 years, a positive step for the revival of international cricket in the host country.

A deadly attack on Sri Lanka's team in 2009 froze international tours to Pakistan before their gradual resumption in recent years.

Fast bowler Kagiso Rabada took two wickets for just eight runs as he led a South African fightback against Pakistan in their first Test in Karachi Tuesday. Pakistan were in trouble at 33 for four at the close of play, having bowled out the visitors for 220 -- their second-lowest total in the country.

Fast bowler Kagiso Rabada took two wickets for just eight runs as he led a South African fightback against Pakistan in their first Test in Karachi Tuesday. Pakistan were in trouble at 33 for four at the close of play, having bowled out the visitors for 220 -- their second-lowest total in the country. Fourteen wickets fell on the brownish National Stadium pitch, which had been expected to take spin from day one. South Africa were well placed at 108-2 soon after lunch, but lost their last eight wickets for just 112 runs -- barely managing to overhaul their lowest total in Pakistan, the 214 made at Faisalabad in 1997. Spinners Yasir Shah (3-54), debutant Nauman Ali (2-38) and pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi (2-49) did the damage. But then Rabada paid back the hosts with interest, bowling Abid Ali (four) in his third over and then getting debutant Imran Butt (nine) caught at leg-slip off a rising delivery. He now has 199 wickets from 44 Tests. Babar Azam, leading Pakistan for the first time in a Test, fell lbw to spinner Keshav Maharaj for seven before night watchman Shaheen was bowled by Anrich Nortje without scoring. At the close, Azhar Ali and Fawad Alam were unbeaten on five each - with Pakistan trailing by 187 runs with six wickets intact. Earlier, opener Dean Elgar top-scored for South Africa with 58, while George Linde (35) and Rabada (21 not out) were other notable contributors. While lamenting his side's poor batting, Elgar said South Africa now had the upper hand. "I would not have said that after our batting, but then we fought back by taking wickets," he said. "Knowing that this pitch will get tougher, and knowing that we have good spinners, I am confident that we can get further ahead." Elgar struck his 16th Test half-century -- laced with nine boundaries -- before he edged Nauman into the hands of Azam at slip. Elgar and Faf du Plessis (23) had steadied the innings during their 45-run stand for the third wicket after Aiden Markram (13) and Rassie van der Dussen (17) were dismissed in the first session. Both sides entered the Test with two spinners and three pace bowlers. The two-match series marks the first tour by South Africa to Pakistan in 14 years, a positive step for the revival of international cricket in the host country. A deadly attack on Sri Lanka's team in 2009 froze international tours to Pakistan before their gradual resumption in recent years.

Pakistan in trouble as Rabada leads South Africa fightback

Ajinkya Rahane has been lauded for his leadership abilities following India's historic triumph against Australia but the Indian middle-order batsman made it clear that&nbsp;Virat Kohli is the undisputed leader of the Indian team while adding he is happy to fill in when required.&nbsp;

Rahane, who led the Indian team in the final three Tests against Australia, will be back being the deputy to Kohli during India's four-match Test series against England, starting on February 5.&nbsp;

"Nothing changes. Virat was and will always be the captain of the Test team and I am his deputy. When he was absent it was my duty to lead the side and my responsibility to give my best for Team India's success," Rahane, who was on his way to Chennai, told PTI in an exclusive interview.&nbsp;

For the Indian Test vice-captain, the priority is to have the ability to perform the captaincy role to perfection when needed.

"It's&nbsp;not the matter of merely being a captain. How you perform the&nbsp;captain's&nbsp;role is&nbsp;what's&nbsp;more important. So&nbsp;far,&nbsp;I have been successful. Hopefully, in future also, I will try to give&nbsp;these kinds of results&nbsp;for my team," said the man, who has led his country to four wins in five Tests.&nbsp;

Rahane, while reflecting on his relationship with Kohli, said they have always shared a good bonding with each other as he said their relationship has been based on transparency and mutual respect.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/joe-root-can-break-sachin-tendulkars-all-time-record-feels-geoffrey-boycott-359452" hreflang="en">Joe Root can break Sachin Tendulkar's all-time record, feels Geoffrey Boycott</a>

"Virat and I have always shared a good bonding with each other. He has time and again praised my batting. Both of us played memorable knocks for our team in India and overseas conditions. It only helped that Virat comes at No.4 and myself at No.5. We have had a lot of partnerships," the 32-year-old said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"We have always backed each&nbsp;other's&nbsp;game. When we are at the crease, we discuss threadbare about&nbsp;opposition's&nbsp;bowling. We caution each other whenever one of us plays a rash shot."&nbsp;

And how does&nbsp;Rahane&nbsp;find Kohli as a captain?&nbsp;

"Virat is a sharp captain. He takes good on-field decisions. Whenever the spinners are in operation, he is banking on me and he believes that taking those catches at slips off (Ravichandran) Ashwin and (Ravindra) Jadeja is one of my core competence areas.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bizarre-start-of-afghanistan-vs-ireland-3rd-odi-delayed-due-to-highway-closure-359433" hreflang="en">Bizarre! Start of Afghanistan vs Ireland 3rd ODI delayed due to highway closure</a>

"Virat expects a lot from me and I try and ensure not to let him down," said Rahane, who is 13&nbsp;short&nbsp;of a milestone of 100 catches in Test matches as an outfielder.&nbsp;

While fans and pundits heaped praise on Rahane – the leader – the elegant middle-order batsman downplayed his role by saying that he believes a captain is as good as his team. He further said that the complete credit of India's victory Down Under goes to the players.&nbsp;

"With regards to leadership, I can only say that it varies from person to person. A captain is as good as his team. When you win a match or a series,&nbsp;it's&nbsp;always a collective effort and not because of singular&nbsp;man's&nbsp;contribution.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"It's&nbsp;your teammates only, who make you a good leader. The complete credit of this series win belongs to my team," concluded the reticent cricketer.&nbsp;

(With PTI inputs)&nbsp;

Ajinkya Rahane has been lauded for his leadership abilities following India's historic triumph against Australia but the Indian middle-order batsman made it clear that Virat Kohli is the undisputed leader of the Indian team while adding he is happy to fill in when required.

Ajinkya Rahane has been lauded for his leadership abilities following India's historic triumph against Australia but the Indian middle-order batsman made it clear that Virat Kohli is the undisputed leader of the Indian team while adding he is happy to fill in when required. Rahane, who led the Indian team in the final three Tests against Australia, will be back being the deputy to Kohli during India's four-match Test series against England, starting on February 5. "Nothing changes. Virat was and will always be the captain of the Test team and I am his deputy. When he was absent it was my duty to lead the side and my responsibility to give my best for Team India's success," Rahane, who was on his way to Chennai, told PTI in an exclusive interview. For the Indian Test vice-captain, the priority is to have the ability to perform the captaincy role to perfection when needed. "It's not the matter of merely being a captain. How you perform the captain's role is what's more important. So far, I have been successful. Hopefully, in future also, I will try to give these kinds of results for my team," said the man, who has led his country to four wins in five Tests. Rahane, while reflecting on his relationship with Kohli, said they have always shared a good bonding with each other as he said their relationship has been based on transparency and mutual respect. ALSO READ:Joe Root can break Sachin Tendulkar's all-time record, feels Geoffrey Boycott "Virat and I have always shared a good bonding with each other. He has time and again praised my batting. Both of us played memorable knocks for our team in India and overseas conditions. It only helped that Virat comes at No.4 and myself at No.5. We have had a lot of partnerships," the 32-year-old said. "We have always backed each other's game. When we are at the crease, we discuss threadbare about opposition's bowling. We caution each other whenever one of us plays a rash shot." And how does Rahane find Kohli as a captain? "Virat is a sharp captain. He takes good on-field decisions. Whenever the spinners are in operation, he is banking on me and he believes that taking those catches at slips off (Ravichandran) Ashwin and (Ravindra) Jadeja is one of my core competence areas. ALSO READ: Bizarre! Start of Afghanistan vs Ireland 3rd ODI delayed due to highway closure "Virat expects a lot from me and I try and ensure not to let him down," said Rahane, who is 13 short of a milestone of 100 catches in Test matches as an outfielder. While fans and pundits heaped praise on Rahane – the leader – the elegant middle-order batsman downplayed his role by saying that he believes a captain is as good as his team. He further said that the complete credit of India's victory Down Under goes to the players. "With regards to leadership, I can only say that it varies from person to person. A captain is as good as his team. When you win a match or a series, it's always a collective effort and not because of singular man's contribution. "It's your teammates only, who make you a good leader. The complete credit of this series win belongs to my team," concluded the reticent cricketer. (With PTI inputs)

Ajinkya Rahane reacts to captaincy debate ahead of England series

England cricket legend Geoffery Boycott has banked on Joe Root to surpass former India batsman&nbsp;Sachin&nbsp;Tendulkar's all-time record of scoring most runs in Test cricket. Boycott&nbsp;feels Root has all the potential to play Test cricket for a long time while also surpassing the runs scored by Tendulkar in the longest format of the game.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Boycott's comments come after Root incredibly led England to a 2-0 Test series win against Sri Lanka while scoring an impressive 426 runs in four innings at an average of 106.50 including scores of 228 and 186. Root also became England's fourth-highest Test run-scorer.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The former England batsman Boycott feel that Root has the ability to represent England for 200 Tests and can go on to score more than 15,921 runs - Tendulkar's record in Test&nbsp;cricket.&nbsp;

"Forget just scoring more Test runs for England than David Gower, Kevin Pietersen and myself. Joe Root has the potential to play 200 Tests and score more runs than even&nbsp;Sachin&nbsp;Tendulkar," Boycott wrote in a column for The Telegraph.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bizarre-start-of-afghanistan-vs-ireland-3rd-odi-delayed-due-to-highway-closure-359433" hreflang="en">Bizarre! Start of Afghanistan vs Ireland 3rd ODI delayed due to highway closure</a>

"Root is only 30. He has played 99 Tests and scored 8249 runs already. As long as he does not suffer serious injury there is no reason why he cannot beat Tendulkar’s all-time record of 15,921," Boycott added.&nbsp;

Root has already surpassed the likes of Kevin Pietersen and David Gower in the list of England's top run-scorers in Test cricket. Root&nbsp;is now behind Alastair Cook (12472), Graham Gooch (8900), and Alec Stewart (8463).&nbsp;He&nbsp;currently has 8249 runs to his name in 99 Tests at an average of 49.39 and is 26th on the list of highest Test run-getters of all-time.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/how-are-virat-kohli-ajinkya-rahane-different-as-captains-r-ashwin-gives-his-take-359178" hreflang="en">How are Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane different as captains? R Ashwin gives his take</a>

"His contemporaries, such as Virat Kohli, Steve Smith and Kane Williamson, are wonderful players as well who could also score that many runs. We should enjoy Root and only judge him alongside those guys, not great names of the past because every player is a product of their environment," wrote Boycott.&nbsp;

The England Test skipper will be seen next in action when England take on India in a full-fledged series starting from February 5. England and India will play four Tests, five T20Is and three ODIs.&nbsp;

England cricket legend Geoffery Boycott has banked on Joe Root to surpass former India batsman Sachin Tendulkar's all-time record of scoring most runs in Test cricket.

England cricket legend Geoffery Boycott has banked on Joe Root to surpass former India batsman Sachin Tendulkar's all-time record of scoring most runs in Test cricket. Boycott feels Root has all the potential to play Test cricket for a long time while also surpassing the runs scored by Tendulkar in the longest format of the game. Boycott's comments come after Root incredibly led England to a 2-0 Test series win against Sri Lanka while scoring an impressive 426 runs in four innings at an average of 106.50 including scores of 228 and 186. Root also became England's fourth-highest Test run-scorer. The former England batsman Boycott feel that Root has the ability to represent England for 200 Tests and can go on to score more than 15,921 runs - Tendulkar's record in Test cricket. "Forget just scoring more Test runs for England than David Gower, Kevin Pietersen and myself. Joe Root has the potential to play 200 Tests and score more runs than even Sachin Tendulkar," Boycott wrote in a column for The Telegraph. ALSO READ: Bizarre! Start of Afghanistan vs Ireland 3rd ODI delayed due to highway closure "Root is only 30. He has played 99 Tests and scored 8249 runs already. As long as he does not suffer serious injury there is no reason why he cannot beat Tendulkar’s all-time record of 15,921," Boycott added. Root has already surpassed the likes of Kevin Pietersen and David Gower in the list of England's top run-scorers in Test cricket. Root is now behind Alastair Cook (12472), Graham Gooch (8900), and Alec Stewart (8463). He currently has 8249 runs to his name in 99 Tests at an average of 49.39 and is 26th on the list of highest Test run-getters of all-time. ALSO READ: How are Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane different as captains? R Ashwin gives his take "His contemporaries, such as Virat Kohli, Steve Smith and Kane Williamson, are wonderful players as well who could also score that many runs. We should enjoy Root and only judge him alongside those guys, not great names of the past because every player is a product of their environment," wrote Boycott. The England Test skipper will be seen next in action when England take on India in a full-fledged series starting from February 5. England and India will play four Tests, five T20Is and three ODIs.

Joe Root can break Sachin Tendulkar's all-time record, feels Geoffrey Boycott

The start of the third ODI between Afghanistan and Ireland at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday witnessed a delay due to bizarre circumstances with fog affecting transportation in Abu Dhabi.&nbsp;Cricket world has witnessed matches being halted due to interruption by bees, sun interruptions, smog halting proceedings but Tuesday's incident of fog resulting in highway closure, which directly affected the match being delayed tops the chart.&nbsp;

The toss was scheduled for 9:30 am local time originally but was delayed by an hour and 15 minutes as the teams couldn't reach the venue on time as the fog in certain areas of Abu Dhabi caused a highway closure. The move affected the transportation which caused problems for both the teams as they failed to reach the stadium on time, resulting in the delayed start.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Afghanistan Cricket Board tweeted: "The start of play for the third ODI of #KardanUniversityCup is delayed due to fog in certain areas of Abu Dhabi affecting the transportation in the city."&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/security-covid-19-restrictions-make-pakistans-tour-tough-says-south-africas-mark-boucher-359418" hreflang="en">Security, COVID-19 restrictions make Pakistan's tour tough, says South Africa's Mark Boucher</a>

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The start of play for the third ODI of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KardanUniversityCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KardanUniversityCup</a> is delayed due to fog in certain areas of Abu Dhabi affecting the transportation in the city.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AFGvIRE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AFGvIRE</a>
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Meanwhile, Afghanistan have already won the series by coming out victorious in the first two matches of the three-ODI series, by 16 runs and seven wickets respectively.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-they-wont-they-key-questions-for-troubled-tokyo-olympics-359408" hreflang="en">Will they, won't they? Key questions for troubled Tokyo Olympics</a>

After both the teams reached the stadium, the match was started. Ireland won the toss and opted to bowl first. Openers Javed Ahmadi and&nbsp;Rahmanullah&nbsp;Gurbaz gave Afghanistan a steady start but Craig Young dismissed both the openers soon while also scalping the wicket of Rahmat Shah. Soon after, Andy&nbsp;McBrine&nbsp;dismissed&nbsp;Hashmatullah&nbsp;Shahidi to put pressure on Afghanistan.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The start of the third ODI between Afghanistan and Ireland at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday witnessed a delay due to bizarre circumstances with fog affecting transportation in Abu Dhabi.

The start of the third ODI between Afghanistan and Ireland at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday witnessed a delay due to bizarre circumstances with fog affecting transportation in Abu Dhabi. Cricket world has witnessed matches being halted due to interruption by bees, sun interruptions, smog halting proceedings but Tuesday's incident of fog resulting in highway closure, which directly affected the match being delayed tops the chart. The toss was scheduled for 9:30 am local time originally but was delayed by an hour and 15 minutes as the teams couldn't reach the venue on time as the fog in certain areas of Abu Dhabi caused a highway closure. The move affected the transportation which caused problems for both the teams as they failed to reach the stadium on time, resulting in the delayed start. Afghanistan Cricket Board tweeted: "The start of play for the third ODI of #KardanUniversityCup is delayed due to fog in certain areas of Abu Dhabi affecting the transportation in the city." ALSO READ: Security, COVID-19 restrictions make Pakistan's tour tough, says South Africa's Mark Boucher The start of play for the third ODI of #KardanUniversityCup is delayed due to fog in certain areas of Abu Dhabi affecting the transportation in the city.#AFGvIRE — Afghanistan Cricket Board (@ACBofficials) January 26, 2021 × Meanwhile, Afghanistan have already won the series by coming out victorious in the first two matches of the three-ODI series, by 16 runs and seven wickets respectively. ALSO READ: Will they, won't they? Key questions for troubled Tokyo Olympics After both the teams reached the stadium, the match was started. Ireland won the toss and opted to bowl first. Openers Javed Ahmadi and Rahmanullah Gurbaz gave Afghanistan a steady start but Craig Young dismissed both the openers soon while also scalping the wicket of Rahmat Shah. Soon after, Andy McBrine dismissed Hashmatullah Shahidi to put pressure on Afghanistan.

Bizarre! Start of Afghanistan vs Ireland 3rd ODI delayed due to highway closure

Pakistan and South Africa are locking horns in the first Test of the two-match series at the National Stadium in Karachi with the Proteas visiting the country for the first time in 14 years, after international cricket in Pakistan was suspended due to terror attacks on the Sri Lankan side in 2009.&nbsp;

While South Africa are batting first in the first Test against Pakistan, head coach Mark Boucher said that coronavirus restrictions and strict security protocols will make the tour challenging for South Africa.&nbsp;

While Pakistan have hosted several limited-overs series in the previous six years, Test cricket resumed in the country in late 2019.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/can-england-upset-team-india-in-test-series-mahela-jayawardene-opines-359264" hreflang="en">Can England upset Team India in Test series? Mahela Jayawardene opines</a>

"It is challenging from a management perspective – especially when you are in a place like Pakistan where you can't get outside," Boucher told a virtual press conference.&nbsp;&nbsp;

A massive security detail made up of police and paramilitary personnel is guarding the team at their hotel and the stadium, forcing the squad to spend a lot of time in their rooms.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Personally, I don't think it's sustainable from a financial and just a headspace point of view for players, for staff, for management," Boucher said of the coronavirus restrictions.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-world-test-championship-final-postponed-new-dates-revealed-359240" hreflang="en">ICC World Test Championship final postponed, new dates revealed!</a>

"I think it's been necessary to get the game of cricket up and running. I think everyone understands that. But it doesn't make it easier."&nbsp;

Boucher, as a player, had toured Pakistan in 1997, 2003 and 2007 and ended up with a world record 555 dismissals as a wicket-keeper in 147 Tests.&nbsp;

Notably, most of the Proteas elite players will be back home after the completion of the Test series in Rawalpindi in a bid to prepare for the upcoming series against Australia whereas a second-string side will play the&nbsp;three-match&nbsp;T20I series against Pakistan starting from February 11 in Lahore.&nbsp;

Pakistan and South Africa are locking horns in the first Test of the two-match series at the National Stadium in Karachi with the Proteas visiting the country for the first time in 14 years, after international cricket in Pakistan was suspended due to terror attacks on the Sri Lankan side in 2009.

Pakistan and South Africa are locking horns in the first Test of the two-match series at the National Stadium in Karachi with the Proteas visiting the country for the first time in 14 years, after international cricket in Pakistan was suspended due to terror attacks on the Sri Lankan side in 2009. While South Africa are batting first in the first Test against Pakistan, head coach Mark Boucher said that coronavirus restrictions and strict security protocols will make the tour challenging for South Africa. While Pakistan have hosted several limited-overs series in the previous six years, Test cricket resumed in the country in late 2019. ALSO READ: Can England upset Team India in Test series? Mahela Jayawardene opines "It is challenging from a management perspective – especially when you are in a place like Pakistan where you can't get outside," Boucher told a virtual press conference. A massive security detail made up of police and paramilitary personnel is guarding the team at their hotel and the stadium, forcing the squad to spend a lot of time in their rooms. "Personally, I don't think it's sustainable from a financial and just a headspace point of view for players, for staff, for management," Boucher said of the coronavirus restrictions. ALSO READ: ICC World Test Championship final postponed, new dates revealed! "I think it's been necessary to get the game of cricket up and running. I think everyone understands that. But it doesn't make it easier." Boucher, as a player, had toured Pakistan in 1997, 2003 and 2007 and ended up with a world record 555 dismissals as a wicket-keeper in 147 Tests. Notably, most of the Proteas elite players will be back home after the completion of the Test series in Rawalpindi in a bid to prepare for the upcoming series against Australia whereas a second-string side will play the three-match T20I series against Pakistan starting from February 11 in Lahore.

Security, COVID-19 restrictions make Pakistan's tour tough, says South Africa's Mark Boucher

England spinners Jack Leach and Dom Bess wreaked havoc with three wickets each as Sri Lanka slipped to 67 for six in their second innings at lunch on day four of the final Test on Monday.

Sri Lanka lead by 104 runs after they bowled out England for 344, 37 short of the hosts' first innings total of 381. Debutant Ramesh Mendis, on 11, and Dilruwan Perera, on one, were batting in Galle.

Sri Lankan left-arm spinner Lasith Embuldeniya claimed seven wickets to end England's first innings after the tourists resumed on 339 for nine.

Leach&nbsp;soon made his left-arm spin count as he got Kusal Perera trapped lbw for 14, and off-spinner Bess sent back Oshada Fernando for three.

First-innings centurion Angelo Mathews was then bowled by Bess for five and Chandimal fell to Leach, with James Anderson taking a superb running catch.

Sri Lanka were in disarray on 66 for six and could have been seven if skipper Joe Root would have held on to a tough chance at slip off Bess right on lunch.

Earlier Dilruwan trapped overnight batsman Leach lbw for one on just the 11th ball of the day after England resumed on 339 for nine in Galle.

Leach took a single and number 11 Anderson hit a boundary off Embuldeniya, who returned career-best figures of 7-137 in just his ninth Test, to add five runs to the overnight score.

Root scored 186 -- after his double century in the first Test -- to steer England's first-innings response.

Riding on Root's 228, England won the opening Test to lead the resumed series, which started last March but was postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic.

England spinners Jack Leach and Dom Bess wreaked havoc with three wickets each as Sri Lanka slipped to 67 for six in their second innings at lunch on day four of the final Test on Monday.

England spinners Jack Leach and Dom Bess wreaked havoc with three wickets each as Sri Lanka slipped to 67 for six in their second innings at lunch on day four of the final Test on Monday. Sri Lanka lead by 104 runs after they bowled out England for 344, 37 short of the hosts' first innings total of 381. Debutant Ramesh Mendis, on 11, and Dilruwan Perera, on one, were batting in Galle. Sri Lankan left-arm spinner Lasith Embuldeniya claimed seven wickets to end England's first innings after the tourists resumed on 339 for nine. Leach soon made his left-arm spin count as he got Kusal Perera trapped lbw for 14, and off-spinner Bess sent back Oshada Fernando for three. First-innings centurion Angelo Mathews was then bowled by Bess for five and Chandimal fell to Leach, with James Anderson taking a superb running catch. Sri Lanka were in disarray on 66 for six and could have been seven if skipper Joe Root would have held on to a tough chance at slip off Bess right on lunch. Earlier Dilruwan trapped overnight batsman Leach lbw for one on just the 11th ball of the day after England resumed on 339 for nine in Galle. Leach took a single and number 11 Anderson hit a boundary off Embuldeniya, who returned career-best figures of 7-137 in just his ninth Test, to add five runs to the overnight score. Root scored 186 -- after his double century in the first Test -- to steer England's first-innings response. Riding on Root's 228, England won the opening Test to lead the resumed series, which started last March but was postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Leach, Bess rattle Sri Lanka with six wickets

England on Monday defeated Sri Lanka by six wickets in the second Test to win the series 2-0. However, a bigger challenge awaits the Joe Root-led England with their next immediate series being against India starting from February 5.&nbsp;Former Sri Lanka captain Mahela&nbsp;Jayawardene&nbsp;has now given his take on England's chances in the upcoming four-Test series against India.&nbsp;

India have not lost a home Test series since 2012 and the Virat Kohli-led outfit would be looking to continue its winning run following India's&nbsp;historic triumph against Australia in the recently concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2020-21.&nbsp;

Jayawardene&nbsp;has opined that England are "very well prepared" to take on India as he said that having the likes of Ben Stokes, Jofra Archer and spin duo of Dom Bess and Jack Leach will&nbsp;help England pose a challenge against India.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-world-test-championship-final-postponed-new-dates-revealed-359240" hreflang="en">ICC World Test Championship final postponed, new dates revealed!</a>

However, England will be missing Jonny Bairstow and Sam Curran in the first two Tests due to rotation policy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

When asked what are England’s chances of beating India, former Sri Lanka captain&nbsp;Jayawardene&nbsp;told Sky Sports:&nbsp;&nbsp;

"I think that’s going to be a very exciting series and a very good challenge for this group of players. That’s what cricket is all about. You need to go away and win Test series.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Getting Ben Stokes back will be a massive advantage for England because he will bring that experience and be another left-handed batsman in their top-order which can be crucial. ‘It will be a challenge for Rory Burns if he opens. He hasn’t played much cricket lately. I’m disappointed Bairstow is leaving the squad given his experience and the way he batted in this series. He should be in that tour party.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-defeat-sri-lanka-by-six-wickets-in-galle-win-series-2-0-359231" hreflang="en">England defeat Sri Lanka by six wickets in Galle, win series 2-0</a>

"Jofra Archer will bring something to the table with his pace, especially on slower wickets. So I think overall they [England] are very well prepared.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"The two spinners [Dom Bess and Jack Leech] will have learnt a lot here but it will be a bigger challenge in India."&nbsp;

England Test captain Root was named the Player of the Series after scoring a double century and 186 in the two Tests respectively. Even the likes of Bess and Leach impressed while veterans Broad and Anderson continued their good run of form. Notably, England were the last team to defeat India in a series back in 2012.

England on Monday defeated Sri Lanka by six wickets in the second Test to win the series 2-0. However, a bigger challenge awaits the Joe Root-led England with their next immediate series being against India starting from February 5.

England on Monday defeated Sri Lanka by six wickets in the second Test to win the series 2-0. However, a bigger challenge awaits the Joe Root-led England with their next immediate series being against India starting from February 5. Former Sri Lanka captain Mahela Jayawardene has now given his take on England's chances in the upcoming four-Test series against India. India have not lost a home Test series since 2012 and the Virat Kohli-led outfit would be looking to continue its winning run following India's historic triumph against Australia in the recently concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2020-21. Jayawardene has opined that England are "very well prepared" to take on India as he said that having the likes of Ben Stokes, Jofra Archer and spin duo of Dom Bess and Jack Leach will help England pose a challenge against India. ALSO READ: ICC World Test Championship final postponed, new dates revealed! However, England will be missing Jonny Bairstow and Sam Curran in the first two Tests due to rotation policy. When asked what are England’s chances of beating India, former Sri Lanka captain Jayawardene told Sky Sports: "I think that’s going to be a very exciting series and a very good challenge for this group of players. That’s what cricket is all about. You need to go away and win Test series. "Getting Ben Stokes back will be a massive advantage for England because he will bring that experience and be another left-handed batsman in their top-order which can be crucial. ‘It will be a challenge for Rory Burns if he opens. He hasn’t played much cricket lately. I’m disappointed Bairstow is leaving the squad given his experience and the way he batted in this series. He should be in that tour party. ALSO READ: England defeat Sri Lanka by six wickets in Galle, win series 2-0 "Jofra Archer will bring something to the table with his pace, especially on slower wickets. So I think overall they [England] are very well prepared. "The two spinners [Dom Bess and Jack Leech] will have learnt a lot here but it will be a bigger challenge in India." England Test captain Root was named the Player of the Series after scoring a double century and 186 in the two Tests respectively. Even the likes of Bess and Leach impressed while veterans Broad and Anderson continued their good run of form. Notably, England were the last team to defeat India in a series back in 2012.

Can England upset Team India in Test series? Mahela Jayawardene opines

Bangladesh beat the West Indies by 120 runs in the third one-day international in Chittagong Monday to sweep the series 3-0.

Mohammad Saifuddin claimed three wickets as Bangladesh bowled out the West Indies for 177 runs in 44.2 overs.

Earlier, four players hit fifties as Bangladesh made 297-6 in their 50 overs.

The hosts won the first two matches of the series in Dhaka by six and seven wickets respectively

The two teams will play two Test matches in February.&nbsp;

Bangladesh beat the West Indies by 120 runs in the third one-day international in Chittagong Monday to sweep the series 3-0. Mohammad Saifuddin claimed three wickets as Bangladesh bowled out the West Indies for 177 runs in 44.

Bangladesh beat the West Indies by 120 runs in the third one-day international in Chittagong Monday to sweep the series 3-0. Mohammad Saifuddin claimed three wickets as Bangladesh bowled out the West Indies for 177 runs in 44.2 overs. Earlier, four players hit fifties as Bangladesh made 297-6 in their 50 overs. The hosts won the first two matches of the series in Dhaka by six and seven wickets respectively The two teams will play two Test matches in February.

Bangladesh sweep ODI series 3-0 against West Indies

The much-awaited final of the inaugural edition of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) has been shifted to June 18 to June 22 with June 23 booked as a reserve day. The summit clash of the ICC World Test Championship was originally scheduled to be played from June 10-14 at the iconic Lord's Cricket Ground.&nbsp;

According to ANI, the shift from the original scheduled was done keeping in mind the proximity between World Test Championship final and the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 final&nbsp;–&nbsp;dates&nbsp;yet to be officially announced - and the quarantine period that players might have to go through amid the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;&nbsp;

India and New Zealand continue to sit at the top two spots in the WTC standings respectively with England closing in on third-placed Australia with a 2-0 series win against Sri Lanka.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-defeat-sri-lanka-by-six-wickets-in-galle-win-series-2-0-359231" hreflang="en">England defeat Sri Lanka by six wickets in Galle, win series 2-0</a>

India will be playing a home series against England as part of WTC whereas Australia will be taking on South Africa in what will be a must-win series for Tim Paine and Co if they wish to play in the finals of WTC.&nbsp;

In 2019, the ICC changed the point-rating system due to the postponement of many series because of COVID-19 pandemic. The system has been revised to rank teams based on the&nbsp;percentage of win points.&nbsp;

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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/my-career-hit-a-low-after-world-cup-rishabh-pant-reflects-back-on-struggling-phase-359183" hreflang="en">'My career hit a low after World Cup': Rishabh Pant reflects back on struggling phase</a>

On Monday, ECB confirmed that England will face&nbsp;New Zealand&nbsp;in a two-Test series from June 2.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“I think Test Championship, as an ICC tournament, should be right up there. All the other tournaments, for me, start under that. This is going to be the biggest of them all. Every team wants to make it to the final at Lord’s. And we are not any different. We want those points and make sure that we qualify as early as we can, and be in that frame of mind to hopefully win that,”&nbsp;Indian captain Virat Kohli&nbsp;had said&nbsp;heaping praise on Test cricket and ICC WTC.&nbsp;

The much-awaited final of the inaugural edition of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) has been shifted to June 18 to June 22 with June 23 booked as a reserve day.

The much-awaited final of the inaugural edition of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) has been shifted to June 18 to June 22 with June 23 booked as a reserve day. The summit clash of the ICC World Test Championship was originally scheduled to be played from June 10-14 at the iconic Lord's Cricket Ground. According to ANI, the shift from the original scheduled was done keeping in mind the proximity between World Test Championship final and the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 final – dates yet to be officially announced - and the quarantine period that players might have to go through amid the COVID-19 pandemic. India and New Zealand continue to sit at the top two spots in the WTC standings respectively with England closing in on third-placed Australia with a 2-0 series win against Sri Lanka. ALSO READ: England defeat Sri Lanka by six wickets in Galle, win series 2-0 India will be playing a home series against England as part of WTC whereas Australia will be taking on South Africa in what will be a must-win series for Tim Paine and Co if they wish to play in the finals of WTC. In 2019, the ICC changed the point-rating system due to the postponement of many series because of COVID-19 pandemic. The system has been revised to rank teams based on the percentage of win points. With a 2-0 series sweep over Sri Lanka, England are now only 0.5% behind Australia in the ICC World Test Championship standings 👀#WTC21 pic.twitter.com/ZoliydObpd — ICC (@ICC) January 25, 2021 × ALSO READ: 'My career hit a low after World Cup': Rishabh Pant reflects back on struggling phase On Monday, ECB confirmed that England will face New Zealand in a two-Test series from June 2. “I think Test Championship, as an ICC tournament, should be right up there. All the other tournaments, for me, start under that. This is going to be the biggest of them all. Every team wants to make it to the final at Lord’s. And we are not any different. We want those points and make sure that we qualify as early as we can, and be in that frame of mind to hopefully win that,” Indian captain Virat Kohli had said heaping praise on Test cricket and ICC WTC.

ICC World Test Championship final postponed, new dates revealed!

England on Monday defeated Sri Lanka by six wickets at the Galle International Stadium in Galle&nbsp;to win the two-match series 2-0. It was a historic win for the Joe Root-led side as England also become the first team to win six consecutive Test against Sri Lanka in Sri Lanka.&nbsp;

While Sri Lankan spinner Lasith&nbsp;Embuldeniya&nbsp;toiled hard to pick a 10-wicket-haul while also scoring a&nbsp;blistering 40 runs, England were patient enough to keep hitting the odd bad balls for runs as they chased the target with six wickets in hand. English opener Dom Sibley scored a gritty half-century after struggling in the series&nbsp;while skipper Root continued to impress with the bat while ending the series with a 100+ average.&nbsp;

England are now unbeaten on Sri Lankan soil in Test since 2012 and also won both the matches in the series after losing the toss.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/my-career-hit-a-low-after-world-cup-rishabh-pant-reflects-back-on-struggling-phase-359183" hreflang="en">'My career hit a low after World Cup': Rishabh Pant reflects back on struggling phase</a>

Dom Sibley, after the second Test in Galle, said: "It was nice to spend some time at the crease as I was just trying to build a partnership. Watching Joe, the way he has played in this series, it has been incredible. I have changed a couple of things about myself during this series, it takes a lot of courage to do few of these things. Just trying to work it out. Jos (Buttler) plays at a higher tempo and he took the pressure off me (during that partnership). It's a good win. Let's see what happens against India with a lot of guys coming back in. But scoring some runs has obviously taken some pressure off.”&nbsp;

Batting first, Sri Lanka posted 381 in the first innings after a great century by Angelo Matthews. For England, James Anderson was the wrecker-in-chief as the veteran bagged six wickets in the first innings.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/its-disrespectful-kevin-pietersen-lashes-out-on-englands-possible-xi-against-india-359060" hreflang="en">'It’s disrespectful': Kevin Pietersen lashes out on England's possible XI against India</a>

England, in reply, could manage 344 runs after a masterful 186 by skipper Root and crucial 55-run knock by Buttler. For Sri Lanka, Embuldeniya scalped seven wickets.&nbsp;

Sri Lanka, in the second innings, followed with just 126 runs as Embuldeniya made a mark with the bat by scoring 40 runs off 42 balls laced by six boundaries and one six.&nbsp;

Chasing the target, England lost the likes of Zak Crawley, Jonny Bairstow and Root for modest scores but Sibley and Buttler held their nerves to seal the match and historic series for the visitors.&nbsp;

England will now head to India for a full-fledged series starting from February 5.

England on Monday defeated Sri Lanka by six wickets at the Galle International Stadium in Galle to win the two-match series 2-0. It was a historic win for the Joe Root-led side as England also become the first team to win six consecutive Test against Sri Lanka in Sri Lanka.

England on Monday defeated Sri Lanka by six wickets at the Galle International Stadium in Galle to win the two-match series 2-0. It was a historic win for the Joe Root-led side as England also become the first team to win six consecutive Test against Sri Lanka in Sri Lanka. While Sri Lankan spinner Lasith Embuldeniya toiled hard to pick a 10-wicket-haul while also scoring a blistering 40 runs, England were patient enough to keep hitting the odd bad balls for runs as they chased the target with six wickets in hand. English opener Dom Sibley scored a gritty half-century after struggling in the series while skipper Root continued to impress with the bat while ending the series with a 100+ average. England are now unbeaten on Sri Lankan soil in Test since 2012 and also won both the matches in the series after losing the toss. ALSO READ: 'My career hit a low after World Cup': Rishabh Pant reflects back on struggling phase Dom Sibley, after the second Test in Galle, said: "It was nice to spend some time at the crease as I was just trying to build a partnership. Watching Joe, the way he has played in this series, it has been incredible. I have changed a couple of things about myself during this series, it takes a lot of courage to do few of these things. Just trying to work it out. Jos (Buttler) plays at a higher tempo and he took the pressure off me (during that partnership). It's a good win. Let's see what happens against India with a lot of guys coming back in. But scoring some runs has obviously taken some pressure off.” Batting first, Sri Lanka posted 381 in the first innings after a great century by Angelo Matthews. For England, James Anderson was the wrecker-in-chief as the veteran bagged six wickets in the first innings. ALSO READ: 'It’s disrespectful': Kevin Pietersen lashes out on England's possible XI against India England, in reply, could manage 344 runs after a masterful 186 by skipper Root and crucial 55-run knock by Buttler. For Sri Lanka, Embuldeniya scalped seven wickets. Sri Lanka, in the second innings, followed with just 126 runs as Embuldeniya made a mark with the bat by scoring 40 runs off 42 balls laced by six boundaries and one six. Chasing the target, England lost the likes of Zak Crawley, Jonny Bairstow and Root for modest scores but Sibley and Buttler held their nerves to seal the match and historic series for the visitors. England will now head to India for a full-fledged series starting from February 5.

England defeat Sri Lanka by six wickets in Galle, win series 2-0

Delhi Bulls, one of Abu Dhabi T10 League’s leading franchises, has launched their team’s jersey for the 4th edition of the exhilarating league. The shortest format of the game is being touted as the next big thing in cricket, and the jersey’s new design exemplifies the rush and fan frenzy evoked by the team’s cricketing talents.

Fans from across the world witnessed captain Dwayne&nbsp;Bravo&nbsp;sporting the new jersey. The event had a one-of-a-kind launch, which involved a live virtual engagement with Bollywood celebrity Sunny Leone, donning the new team graphics. Delhi Bulls recently decided to retain Sunny Leone as the Official Brand Ambassador of the team for 2021 edition as well, as they believe that she continues to ooze confidence and class, and possesses a ‘never say never attitude’, which is in line with the Delhi Bulls team’s core values.

Speaking about the launch, Delhi Bulls’ official brand ambassador,&nbsp;Sunny Leone, said,&nbsp;“I have been eagerly waiting for the 4th edition of the T10 league to commence, and I am delighted and honoured to be associated with Delhi Bulls. I am excited about cheering for the team once again, and I really want us to win the league this time. I wish the team and staff all the success in the upcoming season.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/how-are-virat-kohli-ajinkya-rahane-different-as-captains-r-ashwin-gives-his-take-359178" hreflang="en">How are Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane different as captains? R Ashwin gives his take</a>

The theme of the new jersey represents the new and energised team that has been onboarded, which includes coach Andy Flower and explosive West Indian all-rounder and Delhi Bulls’ new captain Dwayne&nbsp;Bravo. Their combination worked wonders last season, as they led the previous team to victory. After taking over the reins of captaincy from Eoin Morgan, Dwayne and his team will be working their magic for Delhi Bulls this season. An incredible mix of several marquee pacers and hitters have made it to this season’s squad, including T20 biggies like Mohammad Nabi, Evin Lewis, Ravi Bopara, Ali Khan, and Sherfane Rutherford, among others.

Speaking at the jersey launch event, Delhi Bulls’ Owner,&nbsp;Neelesh Bhatnagar, said,&nbsp;“The much-awaited 4th season is finally here, and the team has put in a lot of hard work to make it happen during such trying times. The jersey’s new design is phenomenal, and I just cannot wait to wear it for all the games. Additionally, we are happy to bring Sunny Leone back onboard as our Brand Ambassador, and hope we have an enriching and competitive season that leads us to the cup.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/6-indian-cricketers-got-this-special-gift-from-anand-mahindra-for-their-historic-win-against-australia-358802" hreflang="en">6 Indian cricketers got this special gift from Anand Mahindra for their historic win against Australia</a>

The 2021 edition of the Abu Dhabi T10 League will commence from the 28th of January.

Delhi Bulls, one of Abu Dhabi T10 League’s leading franchises, has launched their team’s jersey for the 4th edition of the exhilarating league. The shortest format of the game is being touted as the next big thing in cricket, and the jersey’s new design exemplifies the rush and fan frenzy evoked by the team’s cricketing talents.

Delhi Bulls, one of Abu Dhabi T10 League’s leading franchises, has launched their team’s jersey for the 4th edition of the exhilarating league. The shortest format of the game is being touted as the next big thing in cricket, and the jersey’s new design exemplifies the rush and fan frenzy evoked by the team’s cricketing talents. Fans from across the world witnessed captain Dwayne Bravo sporting the new jersey. The event had a one-of-a-kind launch, which involved a live virtual engagement with Bollywood celebrity Sunny Leone, donning the new team graphics. Delhi Bulls recently decided to retain Sunny Leone as the Official Brand Ambassador of the team for 2021 edition as well, as they believe that she continues to ooze confidence and class, and possesses a ‘never say never attitude’, which is in line with the Delhi Bulls team’s core values. Speaking about the launch, Delhi Bulls’ official brand ambassador, Sunny Leone, said, “I have been eagerly waiting for the 4th edition of the T10 league to commence, and I am delighted and honoured to be associated with Delhi Bulls. I am excited about cheering for the team once again, and I really want us to win the league this time. I wish the team and staff all the success in the upcoming season.” ALSO READ: How are Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane different as captains? R Ashwin gives his take The theme of the new jersey represents the new and energised team that has been onboarded, which includes coach Andy Flower and explosive West Indian all-rounder and Delhi Bulls’ new captain Dwayne Bravo. Their combination worked wonders last season, as they led the previous team to victory. After taking over the reins of captaincy from Eoin Morgan, Dwayne and his team will be working their magic for Delhi Bulls this season. An incredible mix of several marquee pacers and hitters have made it to this season’s squad, including T20 biggies like Mohammad Nabi, Evin Lewis, Ravi Bopara, Ali Khan, and Sherfane Rutherford, among others. Speaking at the jersey launch event, Delhi Bulls’ Owner, Neelesh Bhatnagar, said, “The much-awaited 4th season is finally here, and the team has put in a lot of hard work to make it happen during such trying times. The jersey’s new design is phenomenal, and I just cannot wait to wear it for all the games. Additionally, we are happy to bring Sunny Leone back onboard as our Brand Ambassador, and hope we have an enriching and competitive season that leads us to the cup.” ALSO READ: 6 Indian cricketers got this special gift from Anand Mahindra for their historic win against Australia The 2021 edition of the Abu Dhabi T10 League will commence from the 28th of January.

Abu Dhabi T10: Delhi Bulls unveil team jersey with captain Dwayne Bravo

Rishabh Pant had gone through a tough&nbsp;last 12 months due to his inconsistent run of form. With MS Dhoni going into a sabbatical after the ICC World Cup 2019, all eyes were on Pant to take the wicket-keeping duties with the additional responsibility of winning matches for India with the willow. However, Pant failed to hit&nbsp;consistent run with both gloves and bat and lost his spot in the playing XI across formats.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Pant was heavily&nbsp;criticised&nbsp;post-lockdown for his lack of fitness and continued to disappoint his fans with the bat.&nbsp;However, the southpaw turned the tables and helped India win the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2020-21&nbsp;by scoring the most runs by an Indian batsman in the series (274).&nbsp;Pant's&nbsp;aggressive approach and ability to hit the ball all around the park helped him dominate the likes of Nathan Lyon and Aussie pacers.&nbsp;

It was due to&nbsp;Pant's&nbsp;smashing 97-run knock that India came close to winning the Sydney Test before drawing it.&nbsp;His 89 not-out then helped India end Australia's 32-year-old unbeaten run at the Gabba in Brisbane as the visitors won the series 2-1.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/how-are-virat-kohli-ajinkya-rahane-different-as-captains-r-ashwin-gives-his-take-359178" hreflang="en">How are Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane different as captains? R Ashwin gives his take</a>

Pant, after returning back to India, reflected back on the phase where he was struggling to hit form.

"The journey from World Cup 2019 to this has been quite good so far. There have been ups and downs, the World Cup was a massive opportunity because it comes once in every 4 years. But I got out in my 30s, I was very disappointed because that was one of the biggest opportunities for me,” Pant told India Today.

"I was not happy that I couldn't win the game for my team. My career hit a low after the WC, but then slowly I started increasing my focus towards the game because there is always scope for improvement in life. I've realised that there is no limit to how much you can improve, that's what I've got to know in these last 2 years."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/get-him-in-there-brad-hogg-on-rishabh-pant-being-included-for-limited-over-series-359037" hreflang="en">'Get him in there': Brad Hogg on Rishabh Pant being included for limited-over series</a>

"I think good things will happen if you keep improving yourself and focus on the things that you want to do," Pant said.

When you're doing well people will write good but when you're not they will&nbsp;criticise&nbsp;you. It's part and parcel of a cricketer's life nowadays.&nbsp;So&nbsp;if you don't focus on the criticism and instead focus on your cricket then that's much&nbsp;better&nbsp;I guess," he added.&nbsp;

Pant will next feature in India's full-fledged home series against England, starting from February 5.&nbsp;

Rishabh Pant had gone through a tough last 12 months due to his inconsistent run of form. With MS Dhoni going into a sabbatical after the ICC World Cup 2019, all eyes were on Pant to take the wicket-keeping duties with the additional responsibility of winning matches for India with the willow.

Rishabh Pant had gone through a tough last 12 months due to his inconsistent run of form. With MS Dhoni going into a sabbatical after the ICC World Cup 2019, all eyes were on Pant to take the wicket-keeping duties with the additional responsibility of winning matches for India with the willow. However, Pant failed to hit consistent run with both gloves and bat and lost his spot in the playing XI across formats. Pant was heavily criticised post-lockdown for his lack of fitness and continued to disappoint his fans with the bat. However, the southpaw turned the tables and helped India win the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2020-21 by scoring the most runs by an Indian batsman in the series (274). Pant's aggressive approach and ability to hit the ball all around the park helped him dominate the likes of Nathan Lyon and Aussie pacers. It was due to Pant's smashing 97-run knock that India came close to winning the Sydney Test before drawing it. His 89 not-out then helped India end Australia's 32-year-old unbeaten run at the Gabba in Brisbane as the visitors won the series 2-1. ALSO READ: How are Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane different as captains? R Ashwin gives his take Pant, after returning back to India, reflected back on the phase where he was struggling to hit form. "The journey from World Cup 2019 to this has been quite good so far. There have been ups and downs, the World Cup was a massive opportunity because it comes once in every 4 years. But I got out in my 30s, I was very disappointed because that was one of the biggest opportunities for me,” Pant told India Today. "I was not happy that I couldn't win the game for my team. My career hit a low after the WC, but then slowly I started increasing my focus towards the game because there is always scope for improvement in life. I've realised that there is no limit to how much you can improve, that's what I've got to know in these last 2 years." ALSO READ: 'Get him in there': Brad Hogg on Rishabh Pant being included for limited-over series "I think good things will happen if you keep improving yourself and focus on the things that you want to do," Pant said. When you're doing well people will write good but when you're not they will criticise you. It's part and parcel of a cricketer's life nowadays. So if you don't focus on the criticism and instead focus on your cricket then that's much better I guess," he added. Pant will next feature in India's full-fledged home series against England, starting from February 5.

'My career hit a low after World Cup': Rishabh Pant reflects back on struggling phase

Ajinkya Rahane's terrific captaincy record has started discussions on captaincy style with fans and&nbsp;former cricketers comparing his leadership traits with full-time Indian captain Virat Kohli. While Rahane led Team India to a historic&nbsp;Test series win over Australia recently, Kohli will be back in-charge in the home series against England. A crucial cog in&nbsp;the&nbsp;Indian side, Ravichandran Ashwin&nbsp;has now opened up about the captaincy style between Kohli and Rahane.&nbsp;

Rahane's calm and composed demeanour was lauded by many while his aggressive bowling and fielding changes&nbsp;helped India come back to the series to win it 2-1. However, Kohli's&nbsp;'in&nbsp;your face' and expressive approach have helped India win&nbsp;33 Test matches out of 56 in which Kohli has led Team India.&nbsp;

Ashwin, talking about Rahane and Kohli's captaincy, said that a captain and his achievements can be only good as the team while adding the Indian cricket team, in the past, has enjoyed great results due to quality players in the dressing room.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The veteran Indian spinner further said there is not much difference in the duo's captaincy style. Ashwin said that while Kohli is more expressive&nbsp;and communicative, Rahane is much quieter than him.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-swashbuckling-rishabh-pant-decimated-australia-at-the-gabba-357703" hreflang="en">How swashbuckling Rishabh Pant decimated Australia at the Gabba</a>

"Rahane has led India in about five Tests and Kohli much more and that’s the first difference. I am totally blown away by the kind of comparisons people like to make when it comes to captaincy. All along it was about MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli and their styles of leadership. People just want to pick on it and just talk about it because it makes the headlines,” Ashwin told The New Indian Express.&nbsp;&nbsp;

While Kohli has a brilliant win percentage of 58.92 as a Test captain after leading India in 56 Tests including 33 wins, 13 defeats and 10 draws;&nbsp;Rahane is yet to lose a match as Indian Test captain after leading the side in five Tests with four wins and one draw.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Personally, I feel that as a captain your achievements can only be as good as the team that you get. I feel this Indian team has had some wonderful results in the past because of quality players and human beings in the dressing room. Virat and Rahane have been captain and vice-captain for as long as I can remember now. They lend great balance to the team,” Ashwin said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/its-disrespectful-kevin-pietersen-lashes-out-on-englands-possible-xi-against-india-359060" hreflang="en">'It’s disrespectful': Kevin Pietersen lashes out on England's possible XI against India</a>

"As soon as Virat left, it was just an extension and nobody had to tell Jinks how things had to be operated and it was an automatic transition that happened. For me, it was an extension of what’s been happening in the last 5 years. We have played under Jinks in the Dharamshala Test (Against Oz in 2017) and then the Test against Afghanistan and we know what to expect. When the players know what to expect, things get a lot easier. I wouldn’t say there is a distinct difference in their style of captaincy. It's just the people they are. Virat is more expressive, communicative and in your face while Jinks doesn’t do these three things. But the way they captain the side is pretty much similar,” the 34-year-old who picked up 12 wickets in three Tests in the recently concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2020-21 added.&nbsp;

Ajinkya Rahane's terrific captaincy record has started discussions on captaincy style with fans and former cricketers comparing his leadership traits with full-time Indian captain Virat Kohli.

Ajinkya Rahane's terrific captaincy record has started discussions on captaincy style with fans and former cricketers comparing his leadership traits with full-time Indian captain Virat Kohli. While Rahane led Team India to a historic Test series win over Australia recently, Kohli will be back in-charge in the home series against England. A crucial cog in the Indian side, Ravichandran Ashwin has now opened up about the captaincy style between Kohli and Rahane. Rahane's calm and composed demeanour was lauded by many while his aggressive bowling and fielding changes helped India come back to the series to win it 2-1. However, Kohli's 'in your face' and expressive approach have helped India win 33 Test matches out of 56 in which Kohli has led Team India. Ashwin, talking about Rahane and Kohli's captaincy, said that a captain and his achievements can be only good as the team while adding the Indian cricket team, in the past, has enjoyed great results due to quality players in the dressing room. The veteran Indian spinner further said there is not much difference in the duo's captaincy style. Ashwin said that while Kohli is more expressive and communicative, Rahane is much quieter than him. ALSO READ: How swashbuckling Rishabh Pant decimated Australia at the Gabba "Rahane has led India in about five Tests and Kohli much more and that’s the first difference. I am totally blown away by the kind of comparisons people like to make when it comes to captaincy. All along it was about MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli and their styles of leadership. People just want to pick on it and just talk about it because it makes the headlines,” Ashwin told The New Indian Express. While Kohli has a brilliant win percentage of 58.92 as a Test captain after leading India in 56 Tests including 33 wins, 13 defeats and 10 draws; Rahane is yet to lose a match as Indian Test captain after leading the side in five Tests with four wins and one draw. "Personally, I feel that as a captain your achievements can only be as good as the team that you get. I feel this Indian team has had some wonderful results in the past because of quality players and human beings in the dressing room. Virat and Rahane have been captain and vice-captain for as long as I can remember now. They lend great balance to the team,” Ashwin said. ALSO READ: 'It’s disrespectful': Kevin Pietersen lashes out on England's possible XI against India "As soon as Virat left, it was just an extension and nobody had to tell Jinks how things had to be operated and it was an automatic transition that happened. For me, it was an extension of what’s been happening in the last 5 years. We have played under Jinks in the Dharamshala Test (Against Oz in 2017) and then the Test against Afghanistan and we know what to expect. When the players know what to expect, things get a lot easier. I wouldn’t say there is a distinct difference in their style of captaincy. It's just the people they are. Virat is more expressive, communicative and in your face while Jinks doesn’t do these three things. But the way they captain the side is pretty much similar,” the 34-year-old who picked up 12 wickets in three Tests in the recently concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2020-21 added.

How are Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane different as captains? R Ashwin gives his take

England are set to tour India for a full-fledged series starting from February 4. India and England will lock horns in four Tests, five T20Is and three ODIs in what promises to be enthralling series of cricket.&nbsp;&nbsp;

England will visit India after the completion of their ongoing two-match Test series in Sri Lanka.&nbsp;&nbsp;

While England have had a confidence booster after comfortably beating Sri Lanka in the first Test in Galle, India&nbsp;are&nbsp;on a high after their historic Test series triumph against Australia.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-auction-likely-on-february-18-bcci-official-358588" hreflang="en">IPL 2021 auction likely on February 18: BCCI official</a>

The Test series will also witness the pink-ball Test (third Test) in the newly-built Sardar Patel Stadium as the venue in Ahmedabad gears up to host its maiden international fixture.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;gruelling&nbsp;tour will start with four Test matches, followed by five T20Is before ending it with a three-match ODI series.&nbsp;The squads for the first two Tests have been announced by both England and India.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/beating-india-in-india-is-a-far-higher-thing-to-strive-former-england-spinner-graeme-swann-358551" hreflang="en">'Beating India in India is a far higher thing to strive': Former England spinner Graeme Swann</a>

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{3b9c69a1-6ce8-49e3-b23f-3b32663a57b2}{156}" paraid="1512110052" >India vs England: Squads&nbsp;</h2>

Team India squad for first two Tests: India squad: Virat Kohli (Captain), Rohit Sharma, Mayank Agarwal, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane (Vice-captain), KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya, Rishabh Pant (wicketkeeper), Wriddhiman Saha (wicketkeeper), R Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav,&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;Patel, Washington Sundar, Ishant Sharma, Jasprit&nbsp;Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Shardul Thakur&nbsp;

England squad for first two Tests: Joe Root (C), Jofra Archer, Moeen Ali, James Anderson, Dom Bess, Stuart Broad, Rory Burns, Jos Buttler, Zak Crawley, Ben Foakes, Dan Lawrence, Jack Leach, Ben Stokes, Olly Stone, Chris&nbsp;Woakes.&nbsp;

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{1d7dbb78-3ba2-4b05-9024-3619d0734c3e}{45}" paraid="1583728904" >India vs England: Telecast and Live Streaming Details</h2>

The India-England series will be live on various channels of Star Sports. The live streaming of matches will be available on Hotstar.

<h2 aria-level="2" lang="EN-US" paraeid="{50a41408-c45d-42d0-b2ec-9a0abb7a4137}{10}" paraid="768632653" role="heading" >England Tour of India: Full Schedule&nbsp;</h2>

Tests&nbsp;

Friday 5-9 February:&nbsp;1st Test – India v England, MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai&nbsp;

Saturday 13-17 February:&nbsp;2nd Test – India v England, MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai&nbsp;

Wednesday 24-28 February: 3rd&nbsp;Test - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

Thursday 4-8 March: 4th&nbsp;Test – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

T20Is&nbsp;

Friday 12 March:&nbsp;1st T20I – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

Sunday 14 March:&nbsp;2nd T20I – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

Tuesday 16 March:&nbsp;3rd T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

Thursday 18 March:&nbsp;4th T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

Saturday 20 March:&nbsp;5th T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

ODIs&nbsp;

Tuesday 23 March:&nbsp;1st ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune&nbsp;

Friday 26 March:&nbsp;2nd ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune&nbsp;

Sunday 28 March:&nbsp;3rd ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune&nbsp;

Monday 29 March:&nbsp;Touring party departs India&nbsp;

&nbsp;

England are set to tour India for a full-fledged series starting from February 4. India and England will lock horns in four Tests, five T20Is and three ODIs in what promises to be enthralling series of cricket.

England are set to tour India for a full-fledged series starting from February 4. India and England will lock horns in four Tests, five T20Is and three ODIs in what promises to be enthralling series of cricket. England will visit India after the completion of their ongoing two-match Test series in Sri Lanka. While England have had a confidence booster after comfortably beating Sri Lanka in the first Test in Galle, India are on a high after their historic Test series triumph against Australia. ALSO READ: IPL 2021 auction likely on February 18: BCCI official The Test series will also witness the pink-ball Test (third Test) in the newly-built Sardar Patel Stadium as the venue in Ahmedabad gears up to host its maiden international fixture. The gruelling tour will start with four Test matches, followed by five T20Is before ending it with a three-match ODI series. The squads for the first two Tests have been announced by both England and India. ALSO READ: 'Beating India in India is a far higher thing to strive': Former England spinner Graeme Swann India vs England: Squads Team India squad for first two Tests: India squad: Virat Kohli (Captain), Rohit Sharma, Mayank Agarwal, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane (Vice-captain), KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya, Rishabh Pant (wicketkeeper), Wriddhiman Saha (wicketkeeper), R Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Ishant Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Shardul Thakur England squad for first two Tests: Joe Root (C), Jofra Archer, Moeen Ali, James Anderson, Dom Bess, Stuart Broad, Rory Burns, Jos Buttler, Zak Crawley, Ben Foakes, Dan Lawrence, Jack Leach, Ben Stokes, Olly Stone, Chris Woakes. India vs England: Telecast and Live Streaming Details The India-England series will be live on various channels of Star Sports. The live streaming of matches will be available on Hotstar. England Tour of India: Full Schedule Tests Friday 5-9 February: 1st Test – India v England, MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai Saturday 13-17 February: 2nd Test – India v England, MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai Wednesday 24-28 February: 3rd Test - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad Thursday 4-8 March: 4th Test – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad T20Is Friday 12 March: 1st T20I – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad Sunday 14 March: 2nd T20I – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad Tuesday 16 March: 3rd T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad Thursday 18 March: 4th T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad Saturday 20 March: 5th T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad ODIs Tuesday 23 March: 1st ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune Friday 26 March: 2nd ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune Sunday 28 March: 3rd ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune Monday 29 March: Touring party departs India

India vs England: Full schedule, squads, telecast - All you need to know

The players auction for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 is set to be&nbsp;held on February 18, a BCCI official told PTI on Friday.&nbsp;With the IPL 2021 retention deadline passed and trading window set to end on February 4, the BCCI official has said that the IPL 2021 players auction will take place on February 18 while adding the venue for the same is&nbsp;yet to be decided.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"The auction will be held on February 18. The venue is yet to be decided," the official said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The BCCI is also undecided on whether the IPL 2021 will be conducted in India or not. However, the BCCI president Sourav Ganguly has repeatedly&nbsp;emphasised&nbsp;that everything would be done to keep the lucrative T20 tournament at its home.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/just-continue-when-shardul-thakur-didnt-convey-ravi-shastris-message-to-vihari-and-ashwin-in-sydney-358569" hreflang="en">'Just continue!': When Shardul Thakur didn't convey Ravi Shastri's message to Vihari and Ashwin in Sydney</a>

IPL 2020 was taken abroad, to the United Arab Emirates, in September-November due to the COVID-19 pandemic as the BCCI successfully pulled off the multi-team tournament without a hitch.&nbsp;

Smooth conduct of India's full-fledged home series against England, scheduled to start from February 5,&nbsp;should pave the way for the cash-rich tournament to be held at home.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/after-yo-yo-bcci-introduces-new-fitness-test-for-team-india-358543" hreflang="en">After Yo-Yo, BCCI introduces new fitness test for Team India</a>

Meanwhile, elite players like Steve Smith, Glenn Maxwell, Chris Morris among others were released from their respective franchise on the IPL 2021 retention deadline.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Mumbai Indians won the IPL 2020 after a splendid show in the UAE as the Rohit Sharma-led outfit lifted a record fifth IPL trophy.&nbsp;

The players auction for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 is set to be held on February 18, a BCCI official told PTI on Friday. With the IPL 2021 retention deadline passed and trading window set to end on February 4, the BCCI official has said that the IPL 2021 players auction will take place on February 18 while adding the venue for the same is yet to be decided.

The players auction for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 is set to be held on February 18, a BCCI official told PTI on Friday. With the IPL 2021 retention deadline passed and trading window set to end on February 4, the BCCI official has said that the IPL 2021 players auction will take place on February 18 while adding the venue for the same is yet to be decided. "The auction will be held on February 18. The venue is yet to be decided," the official said. The BCCI is also undecided on whether the IPL 2021 will be conducted in India or not. However, the BCCI president Sourav Ganguly has repeatedly emphasised that everything would be done to keep the lucrative T20 tournament at its home. ALSO READ: 'Just continue!': When Shardul Thakur didn't convey Ravi Shastri's message to Vihari and Ashwin in Sydney IPL 2020 was taken abroad, to the United Arab Emirates, in September-November due to the COVID-19 pandemic as the BCCI successfully pulled off the multi-team tournament without a hitch. Smooth conduct of India's full-fledged home series against England, scheduled to start from February 5, should pave the way for the cash-rich tournament to be held at home. ALSO READ: After Yo-Yo, BCCI introduces new fitness test for Team India Meanwhile, elite players like Steve Smith, Glenn Maxwell, Chris Morris among others were released from their respective franchise on the IPL 2021 retention deadline. Mumbai Indians won the IPL 2020 after a splendid show in the UAE as the Rohit Sharma-led outfit lifted a record fifth IPL trophy.

IPL 2021 auction likely on February 18: BCCI official

The International Olympic Committee on Friday reacted to the speculations of the Tokyo Olympics 2020&nbsp;getting cancelled&nbsp;as the IOC dismissed all the reports while terming it "categorically untrue".&nbsp;&nbsp;

Earlier on Friday, The Times reported that the Japanese government has privately concluded that the Tokyo Olympics will have to be cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;&nbsp;

While Japan's Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary Manabu Sakai dismissed the report, the IOC has given an official statement saying that "they will be implementing all possible countermeasures against COVID-19 and will continue their preparations for holding a safe and secure Games this summer".&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-games-may-be-too-big-a-gamble-disease-expert-says-358262" hreflang="en">Tokyo Games may be too big a gamble, disease expert says</a>

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{5e26cd38-371c-46d9-b12d-5cf040f9145f}{210}" paraid="631709021" >Full statement by the International Olympic Committee on Tokyo Olympics:&nbsp;</h2>

We refer you to the strong and clear statement that the Japanese Government made today, saying that the report is "categorically untrue". Please find the statement here:&nbsp;

"Some news reports circulating today are claiming that the Government of Japan has privately concluded that the Tokyo Olympics will have to be cancelled because of the coronavirus. This is categorically untrue.&nbsp;

"At an IOC Executive Board meeting in July last year, it was agreed that the Opening Ceremony of the Olympic Games Tokyo&nbsp;2020 would be held on July 23 this year, and the&nbsp;programme&nbsp;and venues for the Games were rescheduled accordingly. All parties involved are working together to prepare for a successful Games this summer.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"We will be implementing all possible countermeasures against COVID-19 and will continue to work closely with the IOC, the Tokyo 2020&nbsp;Organising&nbsp;Committee and the Tokyo Metropolitan Government in our preparations for holding a safe and secure Games this summer."&nbsp;

Together with its Japanese partners and friends, the IOC is fully concentrated on and committed to the successful delivery of the Olympic and Paralympics Games Tokyo 2020 this year.&nbsp;

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IOC statement on media reports regarding Tokyo 2020 <a href="https://t.co/647pj5mx9U">pic.twitter.com/647pj5mx9U</a>
— IOC MEDIA (@iocmedia) <a href="https://twitter.com/iocmedia/status/1352574361425895425?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 22, 2021</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-cancelled-japanese-government-issues-clarification-358428" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics cancelled? Japanese government issues clarification</a>

Earlier, both Australia and United States Olympic Committees said that they are completely focused on the Games as scheduled after the report from The Times surfaced that&nbsp;Tokyo Olympics, which was pushed back by a year due to the pandemic, will be cancelled. The report further stated that the Japanese&nbsp;government&nbsp;is now looking to&nbsp;secure the quadrennial event in the next available year in 2032.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The International Olympic Committee on Friday reacted to the speculations of the Tokyo Olympics 2020 getting cancelled as the IOC dismissed all the reports while terming it "categorically untrue".

The International Olympic Committee on Friday reacted to the speculations of the Tokyo Olympics 2020 getting cancelled as the IOC dismissed all the reports while terming it "categorically untrue". Earlier on Friday, The Times reported that the Japanese government has privately concluded that the Tokyo Olympics will have to be cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic. While Japan's Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary Manabu Sakai dismissed the report, the IOC has given an official statement saying that "they will be implementing all possible countermeasures against COVID-19 and will continue their preparations for holding a safe and secure Games this summer". ALSO READ: Tokyo Games may be too big a gamble, disease expert says Full statement by the International Olympic Committee on Tokyo Olympics: We refer you to the strong and clear statement that the Japanese Government made today, saying that the report is "categorically untrue". Please find the statement here: "Some news reports circulating today are claiming that the Government of Japan has privately concluded that the Tokyo Olympics will have to be cancelled because of the coronavirus. This is categorically untrue. "At an IOC Executive Board meeting in July last year, it was agreed that the Opening Ceremony of the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 would be held on July 23 this year, and the programme and venues for the Games were rescheduled accordingly. All parties involved are working together to prepare for a successful Games this summer. "We will be implementing all possible countermeasures against COVID-19 and will continue to work closely with the IOC, the Tokyo 2020 Organising Committee and the Tokyo Metropolitan Government in our preparations for holding a safe and secure Games this summer." Together with its Japanese partners and friends, the IOC is fully concentrated on and committed to the successful delivery of the Olympic and Paralympics Games Tokyo 2020 this year. IOC statement on media reports regarding Tokyo 2020 pic.twitter.com/647pj5mx9U — IOC MEDIA (@iocmedia) January 22, 2021 × ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics cancelled? Japanese government issues clarification Earlier, both Australia and United States Olympic Committees said that they are completely focused on the Games as scheduled after the report from The Times surfaced that Tokyo Olympics, which was pushed back by a year due to the pandemic, will be cancelled. The report further stated that the Japanese government is now looking to secure the quadrennial event in the next available year in 2032.

IOC reacts to reports of Tokyo Olympics getting cancelled, says it is 'categorically untrue'

Team India's historic Test series win against Australia will be celebrated for ages.&nbsp;While the Ajinkya Rahane-led side won the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2-1,&nbsp;the Indian team had to face numerous challenges during the series including quarantine restrictions, injuries to key players among other things.&nbsp;&nbsp;

India started off the Test series with a humiliating defeat in Adelaide where the visitors were bundled off for a record-low of 36. However, showing great grit and resilience, the Indian team bounced back to win the Melbourne Test, draw Sydney Test and end the series by breaching Australia's fortress the Gabba.&nbsp;&nbsp;

While the wins in Melbourne and Gabba will be remembered for long, the heroic show in Sydney will never be forgotten by the Indian fans.&nbsp;

During a conversation with India's fielding coach R Sridhar, Ravichandran Ashwin, in his YouTube channel, revealed an interesting yet hilarious incident involving Shardul Thakur.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/my-father-is-a-farmer-and-all-our-life-we-are-taught-to-keep-trying-shardul-thakur-358521" hreflang="en">'My father is a farmer and all our life we are taught to keep trying': Shardul Thakur</a>

While Ravichandran Ashwin, with a sore back, and Hanuma Vihari, with a torn hamstring, were battling out to save the Sydney Test on Day 5, Indian team management sent bowling all-rounder Shardul Thakur to the ground to pass on a message for the duo in the middle.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{7ef9f08a-fbd3-4b68-8c68-1b58bd6abc08}{244}" paraid="984069920" >The full conversation between Ravichandran Ashwin and R Sridhar on Shardul Thakur conveying the message from the dressing room:</h2>

Ashwin: Already I was padded up and standing from the morning because of my back pain. And then suddenly there was talk of Jadeja batting. And then suddenly Shastri came and said 'Ash, go!' After I went in, there were multiple messages from Shastri. Take us through those.

Sridhar: At one end, the bounce was a bit uneven and you got hit. We were worried about two things - one, a batsman getting out. And two, if Ash was injured, there was only Ravi Shastri left to play! Lot of things at stake, so he sent a message through Shardul.

He called for Shardul and said 'go tell Ashwin that I told him to play Lyon and Vihari to play the pacers'.

Ashwin: We were oblivious to it. We were keeping on playing the same way, and Vihari came and said Ash I'm feeling a bit distracting, so let's rotate strike for a couple of overs. And we got a single. Vihari played off-spin, and after an over, he came and said I'm unable to move my feet! Somehow we survived.

Shardul came running in and said "they're talking a lot of things inside. But I won't tell you anything! You both are playing well, just continue!" We were wondering what kind of a message this is.

Sridhar: And we were thinking he conveyed the message to you guys! And then every ball became an event. You batted till tea, and then we started believing. We had 249 balls, and Shastri would say 'Shabash' after every ball.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hanuma-vihari-talks-about-ravichandran-ashwins-struggles-during-the-sydney-test-358506" hreflang="en">Hanuma Vihari talks about Ravichandran Ashwin's struggles during the Sydney Test</a>

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Ashwin and Vihari, battling injuries, defied all the odds to remain unbeaten on Day 5 of the Sydney Test to help India draw the Test. Courtesy the drawn Sydney Test, the series remained at 1-1 which also gave a window to the Indian team to go for the kill in Brisbane as they won the&nbsp;Test series 2-1.&nbsp;

Team India's historic Test series win against Australia will be celebrated for ages. While the Ajinkya Rahane-led side won the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2-1, the Indian team had to face numerous challenges during the series including quarantine restrictions, injuries to key players among other things.

Team India's historic Test series win against Australia will be celebrated for ages. While the Ajinkya Rahane-led side won the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2-1, the Indian team had to face numerous challenges during the series including quarantine restrictions, injuries to key players among other things. India started off the Test series with a humiliating defeat in Adelaide where the visitors were bundled off for a record-low of 36. However, showing great grit and resilience, the Indian team bounced back to win the Melbourne Test, draw Sydney Test and end the series by breaching Australia's fortress the Gabba. While the wins in Melbourne and Gabba will be remembered for long, the heroic show in Sydney will never be forgotten by the Indian fans. During a conversation with India's fielding coach R Sridhar, Ravichandran Ashwin, in his YouTube channel, revealed an interesting yet hilarious incident involving Shardul Thakur. ALSO READ: 'My father is a farmer and all our life we are taught to keep trying': Shardul Thakur While Ravichandran Ashwin, with a sore back, and Hanuma Vihari, with a torn hamstring, were battling out to save the Sydney Test on Day 5, Indian team management sent bowling all-rounder Shardul Thakur to the ground to pass on a message for the duo in the middle. The full conversation between Ravichandran Ashwin and R Sridhar on Shardul Thakur conveying the message from the dressing room: Ashwin: Already I was padded up and standing from the morning because of my back pain. And then suddenly there was talk of Jadeja batting. And then suddenly Shastri came and said 'Ash, go!' After I went in, there were multiple messages from Shastri. Take us through those. Sridhar: At one end, the bounce was a bit uneven and you got hit. We were worried about two things - one, a batsman getting out. And two, if Ash was injured, there was only Ravi Shastri left to play! Lot of things at stake, so he sent a message through Shardul. He called for Shardul and said 'go tell Ashwin that I told him to play Lyon and Vihari to play the pacers'. Ashwin: We were oblivious to it. We were keeping on playing the same way, and Vihari came and said Ash I'm feeling a bit distracting, so let's rotate strike for a couple of overs. And we got a single. Vihari played off-spin, and after an over, he came and said I'm unable to move my feet! Somehow we survived. Shardul came running in and said "they're talking a lot of things inside. But I won't tell you anything! You both are playing well, just continue!" We were wondering what kind of a message this is. Sridhar: And we were thinking he conveyed the message to you guys! And then every ball became an event. You batted till tea, and then we started believing. We had 249 balls, and Shastri would say 'Shabash' after every ball. ALSO READ: Hanuma Vihari talks about Ravichandran Ashwin's struggles during the Sydney Test × Ashwin and Vihari, battling injuries, defied all the odds to remain unbeaten on Day 5 of the Sydney Test to help India draw the Test. Courtesy the drawn Sydney Test, the series remained at 1-1 which also gave a window to the Indian team to go for the kill in Brisbane as they won the Test series 2-1.

'Just continue!': When Shardul Thakur didn't convey Ravi Shastri's message to Vihari and Ashwin in Sydney

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has introduced a new fitness test for the Indian cricket team. The new fitness test will be an addition to the already existing Yo-Yo test, that has played an important role in converting this Indian side into world-beaters.&nbsp;

The Yo-Yo fitness test has set fresh benchmarks in terms of fitness when it comes to Indian cricket and its introduction has helped Indian players become better on the field in all departments of the game.&nbsp;

The players who want to represent India will now have to clear another speed and endurance test over a distance of 2km in what will be a time-trial test.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/my-father-is-a-farmer-and-all-our-life-we-are-taught-to-keep-trying-shardul-thakur-358521" hreflang="en">'My father is a farmer and all our life we are taught to keep trying': Shardul Thakur</a>

According to a report in The Indian Express, the benchmark for the pace bowlers would be 8 minutes and 15 seconds whereas the batsmen, spinners and wicket-keepers would have to cover the 2km distance in 8 minutes and 30 seconds. Notably, the latest speed and endurance test doesn't replace the Yo-Yo test&nbsp;but will act as another assessment test.&nbsp;

“The Board felt that the current fitness standard played a huge role in getting our fitness to the next level. It is important to take our fitness level to another level now. The time trial exercise will help us to compete even better. The Board will keep updating the standards every year,” a BCCI official was quoted as saying by the&nbsp;daily.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hanuma-vihari-reveals-rahul-dravids-message-after-sydney-heroics-358303" hreflang="en">Hanuma Vihari reveals Rahul Dravid's message after Sydney heroics</a>

&nbsp;Elite athletes such as Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya, Jasprit&nbsp;Bumrah, Manish Pandey among others would be expected to clear the new test in lesser time while the minimum score for the Yo-Yo test remains at 17.1&nbsp;

All the BCCI contracted players have been informed about the latest development and the criteria following necessary clearance from the BCCI president Sourav Ganguly and secretary Jay Shah. The new test&nbsp;will reportedly be carried out from the next series. However, the players who were a part of the Test series in Australia have been exempted from the speed and endurance test for the month of February but those who are in contention for the limited-overs series would be&nbsp;required&nbsp;to clear it.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has introduced a new fitness test for the Indian cricket team. The new fitness test will be an addition to the already existing Yo-Yo test, that has played an important role in converting this Indian side into world-beaters.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has introduced a new fitness test for the Indian cricket team. The new fitness test will be an addition to the already existing Yo-Yo test, that has played an important role in converting this Indian side into world-beaters. The Yo-Yo fitness test has set fresh benchmarks in terms of fitness when it comes to Indian cricket and its introduction has helped Indian players become better on the field in all departments of the game. The players who want to represent India will now have to clear another speed and endurance test over a distance of 2km in what will be a time-trial test. ALSO READ: 'My father is a farmer and all our life we are taught to keep trying': Shardul Thakur According to a report in The Indian Express, the benchmark for the pace bowlers would be 8 minutes and 15 seconds whereas the batsmen, spinners and wicket-keepers would have to cover the 2km distance in 8 minutes and 30 seconds. Notably, the latest speed and endurance test doesn't replace the Yo-Yo test but will act as another assessment test. “The Board felt that the current fitness standard played a huge role in getting our fitness to the next level. It is important to take our fitness level to another level now. The time trial exercise will help us to compete even better. The Board will keep updating the standards every year,” a BCCI official was quoted as saying by the daily. ALSO READ: Hanuma Vihari reveals Rahul Dravid's message after Sydney heroics Elite athletes such as Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah, Manish Pandey among others would be expected to clear the new test in lesser time while the minimum score for the Yo-Yo test remains at 17.1 All the BCCI contracted players have been informed about the latest development and the criteria following necessary clearance from the BCCI president Sourav Ganguly and secretary Jay Shah. The new test will reportedly be carried out from the next series. However, the players who were a part of the Test series in Australia have been exempted from the speed and endurance test for the month of February but those who are in contention for the limited-overs series would be required to clear it.

After Yo-Yo, BCCI introduces new fitness test for Team India

Indian pacer Shardul Thakur has lauded "warrior" Cheteshwar Pujara for his gritty and resolute show against Australia in the recently concluded four-match Test series. Pujara&nbsp;faced the most number of deliveries in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (928) and faced the heat of the Aussie pacers on some tough pitches in Australia.&nbsp;

While Pujara was the orchestrator of India's historic show in 2018-19, the top-order batsman continued his terrific run against Australia as he helped the visitors seal back-to-back series on Australian soil by ending up as the second-highest scorer for the team.&nbsp;

After receiving a grand welcome in Mumbai, Shardul recalled Pujara's breathtaking batting efforts in Australia.&nbsp;

ALSO REA:D&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hanuma-vihari-talks-about-ravichandran-ashwins-struggles-during-the-sydney-test-358506" hreflang="en">Hanuma Vihari talks about Ravichandran Ashwin's struggles during the Sydney Test</a>

"I think Pujara batted like an absolute warrior. In the dressing room, even though he was getting hit, we never felt that he wasn't confident. He was ready to take those blows."&nbsp;

While youngsters like Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant based their game flow around Pujara's gritty knocks, India reaped the maximum rewards of two sides of the coin. Not only did Pujara suffered some tough blows to his body, but he also made sure that India&nbsp;remain&nbsp;in the games during the course of the series.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-the-great-batsman-or-a-mediocre-captain-bishan-singh-bedi-opines-358468" hreflang="en">'Virat Kohli the great batsman or a mediocre captain?': Bishan Singh Bedi opines</a>

Thakur&nbsp;added,&nbsp;"he was pretty solid in his&nbsp;defence. At times, he might have looked ugly while watching him on TV, but he played his role sensationally. He batted superbly. There was no sense of fear in us," he told the Times of India.&nbsp;

Shardul, who made a comeback into the Indian Test squad, made an instant impact as he wreaked havoc with the ball while also playing a crucial knock of 67 runs at the Gabba. Shardul ended up with seven wickets to help India defeat Australia by three wickets and conquer the fortress call the Gabba.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Indian pacer Shardul Thakur has lauded "warrior" Cheteshwar Pujara for his gritty and resolute show against Australia in the recently concluded four-match Test series.

Indian pacer Shardul Thakur has lauded "warrior" Cheteshwar Pujara for his gritty and resolute show against Australia in the recently concluded four-match Test series. Pujara faced the most number of deliveries in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (928) and faced the heat of the Aussie pacers on some tough pitches in Australia. While Pujara was the orchestrator of India's historic show in 2018-19, the top-order batsman continued his terrific run against Australia as he helped the visitors seal back-to-back series on Australian soil by ending up as the second-highest scorer for the team. After receiving a grand welcome in Mumbai, Shardul recalled Pujara's breathtaking batting efforts in Australia. ALSO REA:D Hanuma Vihari talks about Ravichandran Ashwin's struggles during the Sydney Test "I think Pujara batted like an absolute warrior. In the dressing room, even though he was getting hit, we never felt that he wasn't confident. He was ready to take those blows." While youngsters like Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant based their game flow around Pujara's gritty knocks, India reaped the maximum rewards of two sides of the coin. Not only did Pujara suffered some tough blows to his body, but he also made sure that India remain in the games during the course of the series. ALSO READ: 'Virat Kohli the great batsman or a mediocre captain?': Bishan Singh Bedi opines Thakur added, "he was pretty solid in his defence. At times, he might have looked ugly while watching him on TV, but he played his role sensationally. He batted superbly. There was no sense of fear in us," he told the Times of India. Shardul, who made a comeback into the Indian Test squad, made an instant impact as he wreaked havoc with the ball while also playing a crucial knock of 67 runs at the Gabba. Shardul ended up with seven wickets to help India defeat Australia by three wickets and conquer the fortress call the Gabba.

Shardul Thakur all praise for 'warrior' Cheteshwar Pujara after India's historic show in Australia

With the deadline to retain players ahead of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 mini-auction, franchises on Wednesday&nbsp;released some of their respective players&nbsp;to increase their purse before the auction. Teams are looking to bolster their squad for IPL 2021&nbsp;with mini-auction likely to take place in February.&nbsp;

With the list of retained and released players out ahead of IPL 2021 mini-auction, let us take a look at some of the players who have been released by IPL franchises so far.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Harbhajan Singh started the day by announcing that his contract with Chennai Super Kings (CSK) has come to an end. The veteran off-spinner, if available, will go straight to the mini-auction pool after spending a couple of seasons with the Yellow Army.&nbsp;

A Chennai Super Kings (CSK) source confirmed to WION that Suresh Raina has been retained by the franchise with the veteran southpaw all set to don the yellow jersey again after missing IPL 2020 due to personal reasons. The likes of Kedar Jadhav, Piyush Chawla,&nbsp;Murali Vijay have also been released by CSK as the MS Dhoni-led outfit look to bring new faces into the squad.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chennai-super-kings-release-harbhajan-singh-ahead-of-ipl-2021-mini-auction-357900" hreflang="en">Chennai Super Kings release Harbhajan Singh ahead of IPL 2021 mini-auction</a>

The biggest released player ahead of IPL 2021 mini-auction has arguably been&nbsp;Steve Smith as Rajasthan Royals have released the&nbsp;Australian batsman. Sanju Samson has been named as the new captain of Rajasthan Royals.&nbsp;

Mumbai Indians have released the likes of Lasith Malinga and&nbsp;Sherfane&nbsp;Rutherford while Delhi Capitals have moved away from Sandeep&nbsp;Lamicchane, Mohit Sharma, Jason Roy and Alex Carey.&nbsp;

Kolkata Knight Riders have also decided to part ways with flamboyant English opener Tom Banton after buying him in IPL 2019 auction pool.&nbsp;They have also let go&nbsp;Chris Green, Siddesh Lad, Nikhil Naik and M Siddharth.

Chennai Super Kings have released Monu Singh as well.&nbsp;

Kings XI Punjab have released Glenn Maxwell, Sheldon Cottrell, Krishnappa Gowtham, Mujeeb ur Rahman and Jimmy Neesham.

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{ba11a142-7141-440a-a0e9-2375d483a0e8}{212}" paraid="1724536750" >Released players ahead of IPL 2021 mini-auction:&nbsp;</h2>

Steve Smith,&nbsp;Lasith Malinga,&nbsp;Sherfane&nbsp;Rutherford,&nbsp;Sandeep&nbsp;Lamicchane,&nbsp;Mohit Sharma,&nbsp;Jason Roy,&nbsp;Alex Carey,&nbsp;Tom Banton,&nbsp;Piyush Chawla,&nbsp;Murali Vijay,&nbsp;Kedar Jadhav,&nbsp;Harbhajan Singh, Monu Singh, Daniel Sams (traded to RCB). Harshal Patel (traded to RCB), Chris Green, Nikhil Naik, M Siddharth, Siddesh Lad, Chris Morris, Umesh Yadav, Shivam Dube,&nbsp;Glenn Maxwell, Sheldon Cottrell, K Gowtham, Mujeeb ur Rahman, Jimmy Neesham,&nbsp;Aaron Finch, Moeen Ali, Isuru Udana, Dale Steyn,&nbsp;Pawan Negi, Gurkeerat Mann, Parthiv Patel,&nbsp;James Pattinson, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Mitchell McClenaghan, Robin Uthappa (traded to CSK)

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{ba11a142-7141-440a-a0e9-2375d483a0e8}{178}" paraid="210706058" >Retained players list of all IPL 2021 franchise:</h2>

List of retained players by Royal Challengers Bangalore:&nbsp;Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers, Yuzvendra Chahal, Devdutt Padikkal, Josh Philippe, Mohammad Siraj, Washington Sundar, Navdeep Saini, Shahbaz Ahmed, Pavan Deshpande, Adam Zampa, Kane Richardson

List of retained players by Chennai Super Kings: N Jagadeesan, R Gaikwad, KM Asif, R Jadeja, MS Dhoni, J Hazlewood, K Sharma, A Rayudu, S Raina, I Tahir, D Chahar, Faf du Plessis, S Thakur, M Santner, D Bravo, L Ngidi, S Curran, S Kishore.

List of retained players by Kings XI Punjab: KL Rahul, Gayle, Pooran, Shami, Jordan, Mandeep, Mayank, Bishnoi, Prabhsimran, Hooda, Sarfaraz, Arshdeep, M Ashwin, Arshdeep, Porel,&nbsp;Harpreet

List of retained players by Sunrisers Hyderabad:&nbsp;David Warner (c), Abhishek Sharma, Basil Thampi, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jonny Bairstow, Kane Williamson, Manish Pandey, Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan, Sandeep Sharma, Shahbaz Nadeem, Shreevats Goswami, Siddarth Kaul, Khaleel Ahmed, T Natarajan, Vijay Shankar, Wriddhiman Saha, Abdul Samad, Mitchell Marsh, Priyam Garg, Virat Singh

List of retained players by Kolkata Knight Riders:&nbsp;Dinesh Karthik, Nitish Rana, Shubman Gill, Rinku Singh, Eoin Morgan, Rahul Tripathi, Sunil Narine, Andre Russell, Pat Cummins, Varun Chakravarthy, Lockie Ferguson, Kuldeep Yadav, Kamlesh Nagarkoti, Shivam Mavi, Prasidh Krishna, Harry Gurney, Sandeep Warrier.

List of retained players by Rajasthan Royals:&nbsp;Robin Uthappa, Mahipal Lomror, Manan Vohra, Riyan Parag, Mayank Markande, Shreyas Gopal, Varun Aaron, Jaydev Unadkat, Kartik Tyagi, Akash Singh, Rahul Tewatia, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sanju Samson, Anuj Rawat, David Miller, Jofra Archer, Andrew Tye, Ben Stokes, Tom Curran, Jos Buttler.

List of retained players by Mumbai Indians:&nbsp;Rohit Sharma (c), Suryakumar Yadav, Anmolpreet Singh, Saurabh Tiwary, Dhawal Kulkarni, Jasprit Bumrah, Rahul Chahar, Hardik Pandya, Jayant Yadav, Krunal Pandya, Anukul Roy, Ishan Kishan, Aditya Tare, Chris Lynn, Trent Boult, Kieron Pollard, Quinton de Kock.

List of retained players by Delhi Capitals:&nbsp;Shreyas Iyer, Rahane, Dhawan, Shaw, Pant, Hetmyer, Axar Patel, Stoinis, Lalit Yadav, Chris Woakes, Pravin Dubey, Amit Mishra, Kagiso Rabada, Ishant Sharma, R. Ashwin, Avesh Khan, Anrich Nortje. 
&nbsp;

With the deadline to retain players ahead of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 mini-auction, franchises on Wednesday released some of their respective players to increase their purse before the auction.

With the deadline to retain players ahead of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 mini-auction, franchises on Wednesday released some of their respective players to increase their purse before the auction. Teams are looking to bolster their squad for IPL 2021 with mini-auction likely to take place in February. With the list of retained and released players out ahead of IPL 2021 mini-auction, let us take a look at some of the players who have been released by IPL franchises so far. Harbhajan Singh started the day by announcing that his contract with Chennai Super Kings (CSK) has come to an end. The veteran off-spinner, if available, will go straight to the mini-auction pool after spending a couple of seasons with the Yellow Army. A Chennai Super Kings (CSK) source confirmed to WION that Suresh Raina has been retained by the franchise with the veteran southpaw all set to don the yellow jersey again after missing IPL 2020 due to personal reasons. The likes of Kedar Jadhav, Piyush Chawla, Murali Vijay have also been released by CSK as the MS Dhoni-led outfit look to bring new faces into the squad. ALSO READ: Chennai Super Kings release Harbhajan Singh ahead of IPL 2021 mini-auction The biggest released player ahead of IPL 2021 mini-auction has arguably been Steve Smith as Rajasthan Royals have released the Australian batsman. Sanju Samson has been named as the new captain of Rajasthan Royals. Mumbai Indians have released the likes of Lasith Malinga and Sherfane Rutherford while Delhi Capitals have moved away from Sandeep Lamicchane, Mohit Sharma, Jason Roy and Alex Carey. Kolkata Knight Riders have also decided to part ways with flamboyant English opener Tom Banton after buying him in IPL 2019 auction pool. They have also let go Chris Green, Siddesh Lad, Nikhil Naik and M Siddharth. Chennai Super Kings have released Monu Singh as well. Kings XI Punjab have released Glenn Maxwell, Sheldon Cottrell, Krishnappa Gowtham, Mujeeb ur Rahman and Jimmy Neesham. Released players ahead of IPL 2021 mini-auction: Steve Smith, Lasith Malinga, Sherfane Rutherford, Sandeep Lamicchane, Mohit Sharma, Jason Roy, Alex Carey, Tom Banton, Piyush Chawla, Murali Vijay, Kedar Jadhav, Harbhajan Singh, Monu Singh, Daniel Sams (traded to RCB). Harshal Patel (traded to RCB), Chris Green, Nikhil Naik, M Siddharth, Siddesh Lad, Chris Morris, Umesh Yadav, Shivam Dube, Glenn Maxwell, Sheldon Cottrell, K Gowtham, Mujeeb ur Rahman, Jimmy Neesham, Aaron Finch, Moeen Ali, Isuru Udana, Dale Steyn, Pawan Negi, Gurkeerat Mann, Parthiv Patel, James Pattinson, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Mitchell McClenaghan, Robin Uthappa (traded to CSK) Retained players list of all IPL 2021 franchise: List of retained players by Royal Challengers Bangalore: Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers, Yuzvendra Chahal, Devdutt Padikkal, Josh Philippe, Mohammad Siraj, Washington Sundar, Navdeep Saini, Shahbaz Ahmed, Pavan Deshpande, Adam Zampa, Kane Richardson List of retained players by Chennai Super Kings: N Jagadeesan, R Gaikwad, KM Asif, R Jadeja, MS Dhoni, J Hazlewood, K Sharma, A Rayudu, S Raina, I Tahir, D Chahar, Faf du Plessis, S Thakur, M Santner, D Bravo, L Ngidi, S Curran, S Kishore. List of retained players by Kings XI Punjab: KL Rahul, Gayle, Pooran, Shami, Jordan, Mandeep, Mayank, Bishnoi, Prabhsimran, Hooda, Sarfaraz, Arshdeep, M Ashwin, Arshdeep, Porel, Harpreet List of retained players by Sunrisers Hyderabad: David Warner (c), Abhishek Sharma, Basil Thampi, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jonny Bairstow, Kane Williamson, Manish Pandey, Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan, Sandeep Sharma, Shahbaz Nadeem, Shreevats Goswami, Siddarth Kaul, Khaleel Ahmed, T Natarajan, Vijay Shankar, Wriddhiman Saha, Abdul Samad, Mitchell Marsh, Priyam Garg, Virat Singh List of retained players by Kolkata Knight Riders: Dinesh Karthik, Nitish Rana, Shubman Gill, Rinku Singh, Eoin Morgan, Rahul Tripathi, Sunil Narine, Andre Russell, Pat Cummins, Varun Chakravarthy, Lockie Ferguson, Kuldeep Yadav, Kamlesh Nagarkoti, Shivam Mavi, Prasidh Krishna, Harry Gurney, Sandeep Warrier. List of retained players by Rajasthan Royals: Robin Uthappa, Mahipal Lomror, Manan Vohra, Riyan Parag, Mayank Markande, Shreyas Gopal, Varun Aaron, Jaydev Unadkat, Kartik Tyagi, Akash Singh, Rahul Tewatia, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sanju Samson, Anuj Rawat, David Miller, Jofra Archer, Andrew Tye, Ben Stokes, Tom Curran, Jos Buttler. List of retained players by Mumbai Indians: Rohit Sharma (c), Suryakumar Yadav, Anmolpreet Singh, Saurabh Tiwary, Dhawal Kulkarni, Jasprit Bumrah, Rahul Chahar, Hardik Pandya, Jayant Yadav, Krunal Pandya, Anukul Roy, Ishan Kishan, Aditya Tare, Chris Lynn, Trent Boult, Kieron Pollard, Quinton de Kock. List of retained players by Delhi Capitals: Shreyas Iyer, Rahane, Dhawan, Shaw, Pant, Hetmyer, Axar Patel, Stoinis, Lalit Yadav, Chris Woakes, Pravin Dubey, Amit Mishra, Kagiso Rabada, Ishant Sharma, R. Ashwin, Avesh Khan, Anrich Nortje.

IPL 2021: From Steve Smith, Glenn Maxwell to Lasith Malinga - List of released players ahead of mini-auction

The England National Selectors on Thursday named a 16-member squad and six travelling reserves for the first and second Test matches against India starting on Friday February 5&nbsp;at MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai.

England will be playing four Tests, five T20Is and three ODIs in what will be a gruelling tour of India. The likes of Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer return to the squad after being rested for their tour to Sri Lanka.

England Men’s Test Squad:

Joe Root&nbsp;(Yorkshire) (captain),&nbsp;Jofra Archer&nbsp;(Sussex),&nbsp;Moeen Ali&nbsp;(Worcestershire),&nbsp;James Anderson&nbsp;(Lancashire),&nbsp;Dom Bess&nbsp;(Yorkshire),&nbsp;Stuart Broad&nbsp;(Nottinghamshire),&nbsp;Rory Burns&nbsp;(Surrey),&nbsp;Jos Buttler&nbsp;(Lancashire),&nbsp;Zak Crawley&nbsp;(Kent),&nbsp;Ben Foakes&nbsp;(Surrey),&nbsp;Dan Lawrence&nbsp;(Essex),&nbsp;Jack Leach&nbsp;(Somerset),&nbsp;Dom Sibley&nbsp;(Warwickshire),&nbsp;Ben Stokes&nbsp;(Durham),&nbsp;Olly Stone&nbsp;(Warwickshire),&nbsp;Chris Woakes&nbsp;(Warwickshire).

Reserves:

James Bracey&nbsp;(Gloucestershire),&nbsp;Mason Crane&nbsp;(Hampshire),&nbsp;Saqib Mahmood&nbsp;(Lancashire),&nbsp;Matthew Parkinson&nbsp;(Lancashire),&nbsp;Ollie Robinson&nbsp;(Sussex),&nbsp;Amar Virdi&nbsp;(Surrey).

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jofra-archer-ben-stokes-to-give-england-huge-boost-vs-india-england-captain-joe-root-358320" hreflang="en">Jofra Archer, Ben Stokes to give England 'huge boost' vs India: England captain Joe Root</a>

Jofra Archer, Rory Burns and Ben Stokes return to the squad. Archer and Stokes were rested for the Sri Lanka series and Burns was at home for the birth of his first child.

Surrey’s Ollie Pope will travel to India and will be added to the squad when passed fit. Pope is recovering from a shoulder injury sustained in September during the Test series against Pakistan.

The National Selectors have provided a block of rest for Jonathan Bairstow, Sam Curran and Mark Wood. The three players, who are currently in Sri Lanka, will miss the first and second Tests in India.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/inside-team-room-wear-that-36-all-out-like-a-badge-r-sridhar-recalls-raviship-and-more-358337" hreflang="en">Inside Team Room: Wear that 36 all out like a badge, R Sridhar recalls 'Raviship' and more</a>

This is consistent with the selection policy of finding a block of rest for all multi-format players at some point during post-Christmas winter schedule.

With Archer and Stokes returning, and subject to fitness of the rest of the squad, Somerset’s Craig Overton will return home after the Sri Lanka series.

<h2 data-ogsc="rgb(85, 85, 85)">England Tour of India: Full Schedule</h2>

Tests

Friday 5-9 February:&nbsp;1st Test – India v England, MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai

Saturday 13-17 February:&nbsp;2nd Test – India v England, MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai

Wednesday 24-28 February: 3rd&nbsp;Test - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad

Thursday 4-8 March: 4th&nbsp;Test – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad

T20Is

Friday 12 March:&nbsp;1st T20I – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad

Sunday 14 March:&nbsp;2nd T20I – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad

Tuesday 16 March:&nbsp;3rd T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad

Thursday 18 March:&nbsp;4th T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad

Saturday 20 March:&nbsp;5th T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad

ODIs

Tuesday 23 March:&nbsp;1st ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune

Friday 26 March:&nbsp;2nd ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune

Sunday 28 March:&nbsp;3rd ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune

Monday 29 March:&nbsp;Touring party departs India

The England National Selectors on Thursday named a 16-member squad and six travelling reserves for the first and second Test matches against India starting on Friday February 5 at MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai.

The England National Selectors on Thursday named a 16-member squad and six travelling reserves for the first and second Test matches against India starting on Friday February 5 at MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai. England will be playing four Tests, five T20Is and three ODIs in what will be a gruelling tour of India. The likes of Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer return to the squad after being rested for their tour to Sri Lanka. England Men’s Test Squad: Joe Root (Yorkshire) (captain), Jofra Archer (Sussex), Moeen Ali (Worcestershire), James Anderson (Lancashire), Dom Bess (Yorkshire), Stuart Broad (Nottinghamshire), Rory Burns (Surrey), Jos Buttler (Lancashire), Zak Crawley (Kent), Ben Foakes (Surrey), Dan Lawrence (Essex), Jack Leach (Somerset), Dom Sibley (Warwickshire), Ben Stokes (Durham), Olly Stone (Warwickshire), Chris Woakes (Warwickshire). Reserves: James Bracey (Gloucestershire), Mason Crane (Hampshire), Saqib Mahmood (Lancashire), Matthew Parkinson (Lancashire), Ollie Robinson (Sussex), Amar Virdi (Surrey). ALSO READ: Jofra Archer, Ben Stokes to give England 'huge boost' vs India: England captain Joe Root Jofra Archer, Rory Burns and Ben Stokes return to the squad. Archer and Stokes were rested for the Sri Lanka series and Burns was at home for the birth of his first child. Surrey’s Ollie Pope will travel to India and will be added to the squad when passed fit. Pope is recovering from a shoulder injury sustained in September during the Test series against Pakistan. The National Selectors have provided a block of rest for Jonathan Bairstow, Sam Curran and Mark Wood. The three players, who are currently in Sri Lanka, will miss the first and second Tests in India. ALSO READ: Inside Team Room: Wear that 36 all out like a badge, R Sridhar recalls 'Raviship' and more This is consistent with the selection policy of finding a block of rest for all multi-format players at some point during post-Christmas winter schedule. With Archer and Stokes returning, and subject to fitness of the rest of the squad, Somerset’s Craig Overton will return home after the Sri Lanka series. England Tour of India: Full Schedule Tests Friday 5-9 February: 1st Test – India v England, MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai Saturday 13-17 February: 2nd Test – India v England, MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai Wednesday 24-28 February: 3rd Test - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad Thursday 4-8 March: 4th Test – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad T20Is Friday 12 March: 1st T20I – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad Sunday 14 March: 2nd T20I – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad Tuesday 16 March: 3rd T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad Thursday 18 March: 4th T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad Saturday 20 March: 5th T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad ODIs Tuesday 23 March: 1st ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune Friday 26 March: 2nd ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune Sunday 28 March: 3rd ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune Monday 29 March: Touring party departs India

England announce squad for first 2 Tests vs India as Archer, Stokes return

He "aged 10 years in about one hour" thanks to Rishabh Pant and Washington Sundar. Team India's long-serving fielding coach R Sridhar was in the thick of things as side battled adversity after adversity before their "unreal" Test series win over a mighty Australia.

And in an exclusive conversation with PTI, he opened up about the emotional roller-coaster that the tour was. "When Rishabh and Washy (Washington Sundar) were batting, I wasn't able to cope up with tension," Sridhar said after reaching his home in Hyderabad, still trying to calm the nerves after that surreal final day in Brisbane.

"My heart rate was 120 on fitness app and couldn't help telling Rohit that main ek ghante mein 10 saal buddha ho gaya," he joked. An integral part of the Indian team set-up, Sridhar opened about the tour in an elaborate chat, asserting it will be difficult to surpass what the team went through in the past one month -- from hitting the nadir to reaching the zenith.

He touched upon the many highlights of the intense trip -- from coach Ravi Shastri's inspiring speech after the 36 all-out disaster in Adelaide to Hanuma Vihari's "miracle" batting at Sydney to the stunner in Brisbane.

<h2>36 all out and the aftermath:</h2>

"After 36 all-out, you didn't know what's next. Then Ravi (Shastri) bhai gathered the team and said: 'Wear this 36 like a badge on your sleeves and you will be a great team'. "After 40 days, it was gospel truth. Also we had five meetings in two days after the Adelaide Test finished on the third evening. Virat (Kohli), Jinks (Ajinkya Rahane) and the coaching staff discussed combination and Virat gave some lovely suggestions for the MCG Test before leaving.

"I don't think there could have been a better execution in Melbourne," he recalled the events leading up to the turnaround in Melbourne, where India won to draw level.

<h2>Hanuma Vihari and the Sydney Heist:</h2>

"At tea time in Sydney, Vihari had his feet stretched wide as Nitin Patel strapped his hamstring and other physio administered painkillers. I went up to him and told Vihari, 'You owe the next two hours to your team as this team has backed you at every juncture.'

"...And after those 250 balls when he came back, he could barely walk, he fell down on the chair as I went to hug him. He said: 'Sir you asked for it. This is the best I could do in this situation.' I could just mutter 'thank you.' Sridhar said Vihari's fitness took a hit as he wasn't a part of the IPL like most other Indian players last year.

"His hamstring injury is multi-factorial. Firstly, he wasn't playing IPL like others, so general fitness level was a bit less than other guys which I told him and then he stood at short leg for three Tests which also contributed to injury. But what he did in Sydney gave us belief that we could do it in Brisbane.

"Vihari is an intense, young man. He is not your normal, jovial kind of a guy. He can go into a shell very soon, and that's his strength also and it helped him in Sydney. "Despite being on heavy dose of painkillers, which could make you a bit drowsy, he actually pulled off a miracle in Sydney. So when we got there in Brisbane, we had the belief that we could do it."

<h2>The Brisbane Chase on final day:</h2>

"We didn't want to complicate anything with Rishabh and Washy and it was their own plan. They had very valid excellent plan which was based on their abilities and belief. "When you see what they were executing, the last thing you want to do is send in information and at such times, less is more. Ajinkya and Ravi bhai said, 'Just leave these two alone. Whatever happens, we would take it, we came so far brilliantly'."

<h2>T Natarajan didn't carry his bat or pads to the tour:</h2>

"You know Nattu didn't carry a bat. He had his bowling spikes and trainers because he came as a net bowler and was supposed to bowl. He had to borrow one from either Washy or Ash (R Ashwin) when he was named in the squad.

"But that was the beauty. He was not any usual net bowler. (Strength and Conditioning coach) Nick Webb and (trainer) Soham (Desai) had proper strength and conditioning plan for all our net bowlers and they were an integral part of dressing room."

<h2>Talent called Washington:&nbsp;</h2>

"We kept him here after white ball games because we didn't want Ash to bowl too much at the nets but Nathan Lyon was always going to be an integral part of the Aussie line-up so we needed our batsmen to get net sessions.

"We used Washy to bowl into the rough. When Washy would bowl to our top order at nets, I would go and tell him 'Washy, give the ball over-spin because that's the need of the hour on Australian pitches, up (pitching it up) and over spin as you have to put your whole body behind the ball, because it requires energy.'

"We would tell Washy, that you may not be the lead off-spinner, but when India come back again in 2025, who knows you might be leading the spin attack with Kuldeep. Also even when he was not in original squad, he would bat for 30 minutes every day."

<h2>Leadership will now be known as 'Ravi Ship':</h2>

"Before the Brisbane Test started, Ravi bhai had one mantra, 'Nattu is no less than (Jasprit) Bumrah and Washy is no less than Ashwin, and that will be your mindset'. If you two are crossing that boundary line wearing that India cap, you are no less than the person next to you.

"Please quote me, it is unfair that you needed India's greatest Test victory to understand Ravi Shastri's contribution to Indian cricket. He was Indian cricket's 'Go To Man', when NCA needed restructuring in 2007, when IPL was conceptualised, when India needed a stop gap coach in 2007 after the World Cup exit, and also in 2014 when a Team Director was needed."

<h2>And finally, a Champagne spray and game of TT:</h2>

We had a flight next morning. So first we had to pack our bags and then we went to the team room for celebration. 90 per cent people don't drink so it was just spraying champagne and then some games of table tennis which the boys enjoyed.

He "aged 10 years in about one hour" thanks to Rishabh Pant and Washington Sundar. Team India's long-serving fielding coach R Sridhar was in the thick of things as side battled adversity after adversity before their "unreal" Test series win over a mighty Australia.

He "aged 10 years in about one hour" thanks to Rishabh Pant and Washington Sundar. Team India's long-serving fielding coach R Sridhar was in the thick of things as side battled adversity after adversity before their "unreal" Test series win over a mighty Australia. And in an exclusive conversation with PTI, he opened up about the emotional roller-coaster that the tour was. "When Rishabh and Washy (Washington Sundar) were batting, I wasn't able to cope up with tension," Sridhar said after reaching his home in Hyderabad, still trying to calm the nerves after that surreal final day in Brisbane. "My heart rate was 120 on fitness app and couldn't help telling Rohit that main ek ghante mein 10 saal buddha ho gaya," he joked. An integral part of the Indian team set-up, Sridhar opened about the tour in an elaborate chat, asserting it will be difficult to surpass what the team went through in the past one month -- from hitting the nadir to reaching the zenith. He touched upon the many highlights of the intense trip -- from coach Ravi Shastri's inspiring speech after the 36 all-out disaster in Adelaide to Hanuma Vihari's "miracle" batting at Sydney to the stunner in Brisbane. 36 all out and the aftermath: "After 36 all-out, you didn't know what's next. Then Ravi (Shastri) bhai gathered the team and said: 'Wear this 36 like a badge on your sleeves and you will be a great team'. "After 40 days, it was gospel truth. Also we had five meetings in two days after the Adelaide Test finished on the third evening. Virat (Kohli), Jinks (Ajinkya Rahane) and the coaching staff discussed combination and Virat gave some lovely suggestions for the MCG Test before leaving. "I don't think there could have been a better execution in Melbourne," he recalled the events leading up to the turnaround in Melbourne, where India won to draw level. Hanuma Vihari and the Sydney Heist: "At tea time in Sydney, Vihari had his feet stretched wide as Nitin Patel strapped his hamstring and other physio administered painkillers. I went up to him and told Vihari, 'You owe the next two hours to your team as this team has backed you at every juncture.' "...And after those 250 balls when he came back, he could barely walk, he fell down on the chair as I went to hug him. He said: 'Sir you asked for it. This is the best I could do in this situation.' I could just mutter 'thank you.' Sridhar said Vihari's fitness took a hit as he wasn't a part of the IPL like most other Indian players last year. "His hamstring injury is multi-factorial. Firstly, he wasn't playing IPL like others, so general fitness level was a bit less than other guys which I told him and then he stood at short leg for three Tests which also contributed to injury. But what he did in Sydney gave us belief that we could do it in Brisbane. "Vihari is an intense, young man. He is not your normal, jovial kind of a guy. He can go into a shell very soon, and that's his strength also and it helped him in Sydney. "Despite being on heavy dose of painkillers, which could make you a bit drowsy, he actually pulled off a miracle in Sydney. So when we got there in Brisbane, we had the belief that we could do it." The Brisbane Chase on final day: "We didn't want to complicate anything with Rishabh and Washy and it was their own plan. They had very valid excellent plan which was based on their abilities and belief. "When you see what they were executing, the last thing you want to do is send in information and at such times, less is more. Ajinkya and Ravi bhai said, 'Just leave these two alone. Whatever happens, we would take it, we came so far brilliantly'." T Natarajan didn't carry his bat or pads to the tour: "You know Nattu didn't carry a bat. He had his bowling spikes and trainers because he came as a net bowler and was supposed to bowl. He had to borrow one from either Washy or Ash (R Ashwin) when he was named in the squad. "But that was the beauty. He was not any usual net bowler. (Strength and Conditioning coach) Nick Webb and (trainer) Soham (Desai) had proper strength and conditioning plan for all our net bowlers and they were an integral part of dressing room." Talent called Washington: "We kept him here after white ball games because we didn't want Ash to bowl too much at the nets but Nathan Lyon was always going to be an integral part of the Aussie line-up so we needed our batsmen to get net sessions. "We used Washy to bowl into the rough. When Washy would bowl to our top order at nets, I would go and tell him 'Washy, give the ball over-spin because that's the need of the hour on Australian pitches, up (pitching it up) and over spin as you have to put your whole body behind the ball, because it requires energy.' "We would tell Washy, that you may not be the lead off-spinner, but when India come back again in 2025, who knows you might be leading the spin attack with Kuldeep. Also even when he was not in original squad, he would bat for 30 minutes every day." Leadership will now be known as 'Ravi Ship': "Before the Brisbane Test started, Ravi bhai had one mantra, 'Nattu is no less than (Jasprit) Bumrah and Washy is no less than Ashwin, and that will be your mindset'. If you two are crossing that boundary line wearing that India cap, you are no less than the person next to you. "Please quote me, it is unfair that you needed India's greatest Test victory to understand Ravi Shastri's contribution to Indian cricket. He was Indian cricket's 'Go To Man', when NCA needed restructuring in 2007, when IPL was conceptualised, when India needed a stop gap coach in 2007 after the World Cup exit, and also in 2014 when a Team Director was needed." And finally, a Champagne spray and game of TT: We had a flight next morning. So first we had to pack our bags and then we went to the team room for celebration. 90 per cent people don't drink so it was just spraying champagne and then some games of table tennis which the boys enjoyed.

Inside Team Room: Wear that 36 all out like a badge, R Sridhar recalls 'Raviship' and more

England's red-ball captain Joe Root on Thursday confirmed that Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer will return to the squad for their Test series against India, starting from February 5, as he said that the duo will give the visitors a&nbsp;"major boost”.&nbsp;

Both Stokes and Archer are the missing names from England's ongoing Test series against Sri Lanka due to rotation during the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

England, despite missing two of their biggest stars, defeated Sri Lanka in the first Test comprehensively and lead the two-match series 1-0. After the completion of Sri Lanka tour, England will head straight to India, who&nbsp;have been boosted by their historic Test&nbsp;series&nbsp;win&nbsp;against Australia this week, to lock horns in a full-fledged series including four Test matches.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hanuma-vihari-reveals-rahul-dravids-message-after-sydney-heroics-358303" hreflang="en">Hanuma Vihari reveals Rahul Dravid's message after Sydney heroics</a>

"I expect India to be full of confidence and in their own conditions, they are a very good team. They play some very good cricket,"&nbsp;Root&nbsp;told reporters.&nbsp;

"We have to be at our absolute best. But that's an exciting prospect for us, a great opportunity for us, it's a great way to aid our development as a side.&nbsp;

"And we will be going there fully expecting to try and win that series. But we have got a lot of hard work to do before we get there. We got a big Test match here."&nbsp;

&nbsp;Root slammed an incredible 228 to help England win the opening Test by seven wickets in Galle. The visitors also announced that James Anderson will be replacing Stuart Broad in the playing XI for the second Test.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-ravindra-jadeja-ruled-out-of-england-test-series-358289" hreflang="en">India's Ravindra Jadeja ruled out of England Test series</a>

"You speak to any side in the world, those two guys coming back into it would give the squad a huge boost and it's certainly the case for us," said Root.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"We (will be) excited to see them back in and around the squad. Hopefully, they are full of energy and ready to go when they get here."&nbsp;&nbsp;

England&nbsp;are set to&nbsp;travel to India from Sri Lanka with the first Test scheduled in Chennai on February 5. The visitors&nbsp;will also play five T20I&nbsp;matches and three&nbsp;ODIs.&nbsp;

England's red-ball captain Joe Root on Thursday confirmed that Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer will return to the squad for their Test series against India, starting from February 5, as he said that the duo will give the visitors a "major boost”.

England's red-ball captain Joe Root on Thursday confirmed that Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer will return to the squad for their Test series against India, starting from February 5, as he said that the duo will give the visitors a "major boost”. Both Stokes and Archer are the missing names from England's ongoing Test series against Sri Lanka due to rotation during the COVID-19 pandemic. England, despite missing two of their biggest stars, defeated Sri Lanka in the first Test comprehensively and lead the two-match series 1-0. After the completion of Sri Lanka tour, England will head straight to India, who have been boosted by their historic Test series win against Australia this week, to lock horns in a full-fledged series including four Test matches. ALSO READ: Hanuma Vihari reveals Rahul Dravid's message after Sydney heroics "I expect India to be full of confidence and in their own conditions, they are a very good team. They play some very good cricket," Root told reporters. "We have to be at our absolute best. But that's an exciting prospect for us, a great opportunity for us, it's a great way to aid our development as a side. "And we will be going there fully expecting to try and win that series. But we have got a lot of hard work to do before we get there. We got a big Test match here." Root slammed an incredible 228 to help England win the opening Test by seven wickets in Galle. The visitors also announced that James Anderson will be replacing Stuart Broad in the playing XI for the second Test. ALSO READ: India's Ravindra Jadeja ruled out of England Test series "You speak to any side in the world, those two guys coming back into it would give the squad a huge boost and it's certainly the case for us," said Root. "We (will be) excited to see them back in and around the squad. Hopefully, they are full of energy and ready to go when they get here." England are set to travel to India from Sri Lanka with the first Test scheduled in Chennai on February 5. The visitors will also play five T20I matches and three ODIs.

Jofra Archer, Ben Stokes to give England 'huge boost' vs India: England captain Joe Root

Indian batsman Hanuma Vihari defied all odds to stitch an unbeaten knock with Ravichandran Ashwin to help Team India draw the third Test against Australia at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground. Hanuma, battling a hamstring injury, first got it going along with Cheteshwar Pujara, before batting for more than three hours with Ashwin, who himself was struggling with a sore back.&nbsp;&nbsp;

After India's historic achievement of winning back-to-back Test series on Australian soil, Vihari has credited former Indian captain Rahul Dravid for bridging the gap between domestic and international players.&nbsp;&nbsp;

After Vihari's heroics on Day 5 of the Sydney Test, Dravid messaged the Indian batsman to laud him for his efforts.&nbsp;

"Even after the Sydney Test, it was nice of him to send me a text. He said ‘Very well done, you did a great job’. That is the person he is and I respect him for that," Vihari told&nbsp;Sports Today.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mohammed-siraj-drives-straight-to-his-fathers-grave-after-landing-in-india-pays-his-last-respects-358296" hreflang="en">Mohammed Siraj drives straight to his father's grave after landing in India, pays his last respects</a>

Vihari further praised Dravid for giving chances to youngsters during India A tours as he said it made the players ready for international cricket.&nbsp;

"I mean, after getting picked in the India A side. Those who were there in the side, Siraj, Saini, Shubman, Mayank, everyone who were part of that side played a lot of cricket together in India A. Also, in the last 3-4 years, we played many India A tours and he was the coach (Rahul Dravid). I don’t think we played so many India A tours before. So that bridged the gap between the Ranji Trophy and the Indian team. We made the progress quickly. That’s the reason why we are playing our first game or the second game, we are ready for the challenge. We are not behind any other players. He made it possible.&nbsp;

"As youngsters, we have to give a lot of credit to him, the way he let us express our game. When we play under him, it always feels like he is more of a mentor than a coach. He is always there whenever we need him.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-ravindra-jadeja-ruled-out-of-england-test-series-358289" hreflang="en">India's Ravindra Jadeja ruled out of England Test series</a>

"Even in the last Australia tour, I made a call to him, saying ‘Sir, I am making my debut’. He said ‘you have done exceptionally well in Ranji Trophy, in India A, so you’re ready to play’. That’s the confidence he gave me," Vihari said.&nbsp;

Vihari is currently at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru for his rehabilitation and will miss the home series against England starting from February 5 due to the hamstring tear. He is expected to be back in contention before India's tour of England later in the&nbsp;year.&nbsp;

Indian batsman Hanuma Vihari defied all odds to stitch an unbeaten knock with Ravichandran Ashwin to help Team India draw the third Test against Australia at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground.

Indian batsman Hanuma Vihari defied all odds to stitch an unbeaten knock with Ravichandran Ashwin to help Team India draw the third Test against Australia at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground. Hanuma, battling a hamstring injury, first got it going along with Cheteshwar Pujara, before batting for more than three hours with Ashwin, who himself was struggling with a sore back. After India's historic achievement of winning back-to-back Test series on Australian soil, Vihari has credited former Indian captain Rahul Dravid for bridging the gap between domestic and international players. After Vihari's heroics on Day 5 of the Sydney Test, Dravid messaged the Indian batsman to laud him for his efforts. "Even after the Sydney Test, it was nice of him to send me a text. He said ‘Very well done, you did a great job’. That is the person he is and I respect him for that," Vihari told Sports Today. ALSO READ: Mohammed Siraj drives straight to his father's grave after landing in India, pays his last respects Vihari further praised Dravid for giving chances to youngsters during India A tours as he said it made the players ready for international cricket. "I mean, after getting picked in the India A side. Those who were there in the side, Siraj, Saini, Shubman, Mayank, everyone who were part of that side played a lot of cricket together in India A. Also, in the last 3-4 years, we played many India A tours and he was the coach (Rahul Dravid). I don’t think we played so many India A tours before. So that bridged the gap between the Ranji Trophy and the Indian team. We made the progress quickly. That’s the reason why we are playing our first game or the second game, we are ready for the challenge. We are not behind any other players. He made it possible. "As youngsters, we have to give a lot of credit to him, the way he let us express our game. When we play under him, it always feels like he is more of a mentor than a coach. He is always there whenever we need him. ALSO READ: India's Ravindra Jadeja ruled out of England Test series "Even in the last Australia tour, I made a call to him, saying ‘Sir, I am making my debut’. He said ‘you have done exceptionally well in Ranji Trophy, in India A, so you’re ready to play’. That’s the confidence he gave me," Vihari said. Vihari is currently at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru for his rehabilitation and will miss the home series against England starting from February 5 due to the hamstring tear. He is expected to be back in contention before India's tour of England later in the year.

Hanuma Vihari reveals Rahul Dravid's message after Sydney heroics

Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj on Thursday landed in India after a&nbsp;gruelling&nbsp;tour of Australia and drove straight to his father's graveyard to pay his last respects to his departed father Mohammed Ghouse. Siraj's 53-year-old father had passed away on November 20 due to lung ailment, a week after Siraj landed in Australia with the Indian team.&nbsp;

Siraj's father breathed his last while his son was fulfilling his national duties for the Indian cricket team. While the youngster had the opportunity to return back and stay with his family, Siraj chose to stay back with the team&nbsp;instead of heading back to India.&nbsp;

While players went home after earning a well-deserved rest ahead of the England series, the 26-year-old, who was India's highest wicket-taker in the Test series against Australia, drove straight from the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in&nbsp;Shamshabad&nbsp;to the graveyard of his father in Khairtabad to pay last respects to his father Ghouse, TOI reported.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-ravindra-jadeja-ruled-out-of-england-test-series-358289" hreflang="en">India's Ravindra Jadeja ruled out of England Test series</a>

"I lost the biggest supporter of my life. He was the person who supported me the most in my pursuit of a cricket career. It's a great loss for me," Siraj had said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Even though he is not in the world, he'll always be with me," he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Even though my mother and I would quite often scold Siraj for neglecting his studies and wasting his time playing cricket, my father never said a word to him. In fact, he encouraged him to go and play. He used to tell Siraj not to worry and that he will do whatever possible to help him play the game. Today, my father was proved right," Siraj's brother Mohammed Ismail&nbsp;was quoted as saying by TOI.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-play-for-so-long-you-get-used-to-getting-hit-cheteshwar-pujara-talks-about-the-gabba-experience-358232" hreflang="en">'You play for so long, you get used to getting hit': Cheteshwar Pujara talks about the Gabba experience</a>

Siraj laid flowers on his father's grave and offered prayers before spending some time at the grave. He then left to his home in Al-Hasnath&nbsp;Colony in Toli Chowki.&nbsp;

"Siraj arrived around 9 in the morning and from there he went straight to the graveyard. His father would have been very proud to see Siraj do so exceedingly well in Test cricket, especially against the Australians on their home ground. Siraj would have been happier if he had been able to hug his father on his return and share his success stories but destiny seems to have other plans," said Siraj's closest friend Mohammed Shafi, who had accompanied him to the graveyard&nbsp;told TOI.&nbsp;

Siraj ended up with 13 wickets in the series in what was a fitting tribute to his departed father.&nbsp;

Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj on Thursday landed in India after a gruelling tour of Australia and drove straight to his father's graveyard to pay his last respects to his departed father Mohammed Ghouse.

Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj on Thursday landed in India after a gruelling tour of Australia and drove straight to his father's graveyard to pay his last respects to his departed father Mohammed Ghouse. Siraj's 53-year-old father had passed away on November 20 due to lung ailment, a week after Siraj landed in Australia with the Indian team. Siraj's father breathed his last while his son was fulfilling his national duties for the Indian cricket team. While the youngster had the opportunity to return back and stay with his family, Siraj chose to stay back with the team instead of heading back to India. While players went home after earning a well-deserved rest ahead of the England series, the 26-year-old, who was India's highest wicket-taker in the Test series against Australia, drove straight from the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Shamshabad to the graveyard of his father in Khairtabad to pay last respects to his father Ghouse, TOI reported. ALSO READ: India's Ravindra Jadeja ruled out of England Test series "I lost the biggest supporter of my life. He was the person who supported me the most in my pursuit of a cricket career. It's a great loss for me," Siraj had said. "Even though he is not in the world, he'll always be with me," he added. "Even though my mother and I would quite often scold Siraj for neglecting his studies and wasting his time playing cricket, my father never said a word to him. In fact, he encouraged him to go and play. He used to tell Siraj not to worry and that he will do whatever possible to help him play the game. Today, my father was proved right," Siraj's brother Mohammed Ismail was quoted as saying by TOI. ALSO READ: 'You play for so long, you get used to getting hit': Cheteshwar Pujara talks about the Gabba experience Siraj laid flowers on his father's grave and offered prayers before spending some time at the grave. He then left to his home in Al-Hasnath Colony in Toli Chowki. "Siraj arrived around 9 in the morning and from there he went straight to the graveyard. His father would have been very proud to see Siraj do so exceedingly well in Test cricket, especially against the Australians on their home ground. Siraj would have been happier if he had been able to hug his father on his return and share his success stories but destiny seems to have other plans," said Siraj's closest friend Mohammed Shafi, who had accompanied him to the graveyard told TOI. Siraj ended up with 13 wickets in the series in what was a fitting tribute to his departed father.

Mohammed Siraj drives straight to his father's grave after landing in India, pays his last respects

Ravindra Jadeja has been ruled out of the four-match home Test series against England, scheduled to start from February 5. Jadeja had dislocated his left thumb during the Sydney Test against Australia and underwent a surgery Down&nbsp;Under. However, the swashbuckling all-rounder would need six weeks to recover, ruling him out of the much-awaited Test series against England.&nbsp;

The BCCI selectors will take a call on Jadeja's availability for the shorter formats later. India&nbsp;are&nbsp;scheduled to play four Tests, five T20Is and three ODIs against England with the first two Tests set to be hosted by Chennai while remaining two will be hosted by Ahmedabad.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“He is out of Test series and he will take more than six weeks to recover completely. The selectors will take a call later, whether to include him in the team for the shorter formats,” a BCCI official told The Indian Express.&nbsp;

Jadeja will further travel to the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru for rehabilitation.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-play-for-so-long-you-get-used-to-getting-hit-cheteshwar-pujara-talks-about-the-gabba-experience-358232" hreflang="en">'You play for so long, you get used to getting hit': Cheteshwar Pujara talks about the Gabba experience</a>

The Indian Test players will have to undergo three days of quarantine after reaching Chennai on January 27. They will be allowed to train and use the gym after completing hard quarantine.&nbsp;

The BCCI has even requested the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association to check with the authorities on whether 50 per cent crowd capacity will be allowed at the&nbsp;Chepauk&nbsp;Stadium for the Test matches against England.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-from-steve-smith-glenn-maxwell-to-lasith-malinga-list-of-released-players-ahead-of-mini-auction-357972" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: From Steve Smith, Glenn Maxwell to Lasith Malinga - List of released players ahead of mini-auction</a>

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{fdcf2abe-d0a2-4e94-a611-159f4ba1551e}{148}" paraid="215096431" >England tour of India – Full Schedule:&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

<ul>
	<li lang="EN-US" paraeid="{95f32626-ad8f-4410-831b-816a6a58f839}{101}" paraid="398681622" >India vs England, 1st Test: February 5-9 in Chennai&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
	<li lang="EN-US" paraeid="{95f32626-ad8f-4410-831b-816a6a58f839}{119}" paraid="355640834" >India vs England, 2nd Test: February 13-17 in Chennai&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
	<li lang="EN-US" paraeid="{95f32626-ad8f-4410-831b-816a6a58f839}{137}" paraid="1818389654" >India vs England, 3rd Test: February 24-28 in Ahmedabad&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
	<li lang="EN-US" paraeid="{95f32626-ad8f-4410-831b-816a6a58f839}{155}" paraid="566029164" >India vs England, 4th Test: March 4-8 in Ahmedabad&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
	<li lang="EN-US" paraeid="{95f32626-ad8f-4410-831b-816a6a58f839}{173}" paraid="1965680686" >India vs England, 1st T20I: March 12 in Ahmedabad&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
	<li lang="EN-US" paraeid="{95f32626-ad8f-4410-831b-816a6a58f839}{191}" paraid="644229623" >India vs England, 2nd T20I: March 14 in Ahmedabad&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
	<li lang="EN-US" paraeid="{95f32626-ad8f-4410-831b-816a6a58f839}{209}" paraid="604005136" >India vs England, 3rd T20I: March 16 in Ahmedabad&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
	<li lang="EN-US" paraeid="{95f32626-ad8f-4410-831b-816a6a58f839}{227}" paraid="2052419394" >India vs England, 4th T20I: March 18 in Ahmedabad&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
	<li lang="EN-US" paraeid="{95f32626-ad8f-4410-831b-816a6a58f839}{245}" paraid="1571783911" >India vs England, 5th T20I: March 20 in Ahmedabad&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
	<li lang="EN-US" paraeid="{461be3ab-5830-4603-9eb9-9aba826aacb1}{8}" paraid="2046867545" >India vs England, 1st ODI: March 2 in Pune&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
	<li lang="EN-US" paraeid="{461be3ab-5830-4603-9eb9-9aba826aacb1}{26}" paraid="1382482373" >India vs England, 2nd ODI: March 26 in Pune&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
	<li lang="EN-US" paraeid="{461be3ab-5830-4603-9eb9-9aba826aacb1}{44}" paraid="738692707" >India vs England, 3rd ODI: March 28 in Pune&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Ravindra Jadeja has been ruled out of the four-match home Test series against England, scheduled to start from February 5. Jadeja had dislocated his left thumb during the Sydney Test against Australia and underwent a surgery Down Under.

Ravindra Jadeja has been ruled out of the four-match home Test series against England, scheduled to start from February 5. Jadeja had dislocated his left thumb during the Sydney Test against Australia and underwent a surgery Down Under. However, the swashbuckling all-rounder would need six weeks to recover, ruling him out of the much-awaited Test series against England. The BCCI selectors will take a call on Jadeja's availability for the shorter formats later. India are scheduled to play four Tests, five T20Is and three ODIs against England with the first two Tests set to be hosted by Chennai while remaining two will be hosted by Ahmedabad. “He is out of Test series and he will take more than six weeks to recover completely. The selectors will take a call later, whether to include him in the team for the shorter formats,” a BCCI official told The Indian Express. Jadeja will further travel to the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru for rehabilitation. ALSO READ: 'You play for so long, you get used to getting hit': Cheteshwar Pujara talks about the Gabba experience The Indian Test players will have to undergo three days of quarantine after reaching Chennai on January 27. They will be allowed to train and use the gym after completing hard quarantine. The BCCI has even requested the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association to check with the authorities on whether 50 per cent crowd capacity will be allowed at the Chepauk Stadium for the Test matches against England. ALSO READ: IPL 2021: From Steve Smith, Glenn Maxwell to Lasith Malinga - List of released players ahead of mini-auction England tour of India – Full Schedule: India vs England, 1st Test: February 5-9 in Chennai India vs England, 2nd Test: February 13-17 in Chennai India vs England, 3rd Test: February 24-28 in Ahmedabad India vs England, 4th Test: March 4-8 in Ahmedabad India vs England, 1st T20I: March 12 in Ahmedabad India vs England, 2nd T20I: March 14 in Ahmedabad India vs England, 3rd T20I: March 16 in Ahmedabad India vs England, 4th T20I: March 18 in Ahmedabad India vs England, 5th T20I: March 20 in Ahmedabad India vs England, 1st ODI: March 2 in Pune India vs England, 2nd ODI: March 26 in Pune India vs England, 3rd ODI: March 28 in Pune

India's Ravindra Jadeja ruled out of England Test series

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