After beating Sri Lanka and New Zealand in the white-ball home series, India will now square off with Australia in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy, the last edition comprising four Tests. The four Tests between heavyweights India and Australia is keenly awaited by the ardent cricket fans as the three few series have lived up to expectations, if not exceeded them. India have won the last three editions but will have a big task to beat Pat Cummins &amp; Co. and assure themselves a place in the ICC World Test Championship final, to be held in early June.&nbsp;

For India, Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. will be without the services of Jasprit Bumrah -- who might join the team for the last two Tests subject to fitness -- whereas Shreyas Iyer is doubtful for the series opener, on January 09. Australia, on the other hand, have a real chance to win their first red-ball series on Indian soil after 19 years following their dominance at home, versus West Indies and South Africa. Overall, it promises to be a humdinger of a series with plenty of sledging, intense drama and action.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-series-2023-live-streaming-when-where-how-watch-india-vs-australia-series-2023-live-for-free-558187">IND vs AUS series 2023 live streaming: when, where &amp; How Watch India vs Australia series 2023 live for free</a>

Here's everything you need to know about the India-Australia Test series:

Full Schedule

February 9-13: 1st Test&nbsp;at the Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium, Nagpur

February 17-21: 2nd Test&nbsp;at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi

March 01-05: 3rd Test at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, Dharamsala

March 09-13: 4th Test&nbsp;at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad

Telecast and streaming details

It is to be noted that all the four Tests will commence at 9:30 AM IST. Hence, there is no day-night Test in the upcoming&nbsp;Border-Gavaskar series. The live&nbsp;telecast will be on Star Sports Network whereas the live streaming will be available on the Disney+ Hotstar app and website as well as JioTV.

Squads

India (for first two Tests): Rohit Sharma (c), KL Rahul (vc), Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KS Bharat (wk), Ishan Kishan (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Jaydev Unadkat, Suryakumar Yadav

Australia: Pat Cummins (c), Ashton Agar, Scott Boland, Alex Carey (wk), Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Peter Handscomb (wk), Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Lance Morris, Todd Murphy, Matthew Renshaw, Steve Smith (vc), Mitchell Starc, Mitchell Swepson, David Warner

After beating Sri Lanka and New Zealand in the white-ball home series, India will now square off with Australia in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy, the last edition comprising four Tests.

After beating Sri Lanka and New Zealand in the white-ball home series, India will now square off with Australia in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy, the last edition comprising four Tests. The four Tests between heavyweights India and Australia is keenly awaited by the ardent cricket fans as the three few series have lived up to expectations, if not exceeded them. India have won the last three editions but will have a big task to beat Pat Cummins & Co. and assure themselves a place in the ICC World Test Championship final, to be held in early June. For India, Rohit Sharma & Co. will be without the services of Jasprit Bumrah -- who might join the team for the last two Tests subject to fitness -- whereas Shreyas Iyer is doubtful for the series opener, on January 09. Australia, on the other hand, have a real chance to win their first red-ball series on Indian soil after 19 years following their dominance at home, versus West Indies and South Africa. Overall, it promises to be a humdinger of a series with plenty of sledging, intense drama and action. Also read: IND vs AUS series 2023 live streaming: when, where & How Watch India vs Australia series 2023 live for free Here's everything you need to know about the India-Australia Test series: Full Schedule February 9-13: 1st Test at the Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium, Nagpur February 17-21: 2nd Test at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi March 01-05: 3rd Test at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, Dharamsala March 09-13: 4th Test at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad Telecast and streaming details It is to be noted that all the four Tests will commence at 9:30 AM IST. Hence, there is no day-night Test in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar series. The live telecast will be on Star Sports Network whereas the live streaming will be available on the Disney+ Hotstar app and website as well as JioTV. Squads India (for first two Tests): Rohit Sharma (c), KL Rahul (vc), Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KS Bharat (wk), Ishan Kishan (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Jaydev Unadkat, Suryakumar Yadav Australia: Pat Cummins (c), Ashton Agar, Scott Boland, Alex Carey (wk), Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Peter Handscomb (wk), Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Lance Morris, Todd Murphy, Matthew Renshaw, Steve Smith (vc), Mitchell Starc, Mitchell Swepson, David Warner

India vs Australia, Border-Gavaskar Trophy: From full schedule to streaming details - All you need to know

England completed a historic Test series whitewash over hosts Pakistan on Tuesday (December 20). Resuming Day 4 needing just 55 more to chase down a paltry 167, with eight wickets in hand, opener Ben Duckett (82 not out) and Ben Stokes' 35 not out took England to a convincing win. In addition, this became the first time that hosts&nbsp;Pakistan were whitewashed in whites at&nbsp;home.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Talking about the third and final Test, England already had an unassailable 2-0 lead. Pakistan won the toss and opted to bat first at their happy hunting ground; i.e. the&nbsp;National Stadium, Karachi. Riding on captain Babar Azam's 78 and Agha Salman's 56, Pakistan only managed 304. In reply, Harry Brooks scored yet another century in the series -- his third overall -- whereas fifties from Ollie Pope and Ben Foakes took England to 354 all-out, grabbing a vital 50-run lead.&nbsp;

In the third innings, Pakistan once again fell flat with many of their batters getting starts but none managing to stay for long. Babar (54), Saud Shakeel (53) were the top scorers but Jack Leach (ending with a seven-fer in the match) and debutant Rehan Ahmed (returning with a five-fer in only his second innings) rattled the hosts for 216 before England chased down 167 on the penultimate day's morning session.&nbsp;

Here's the updated ICC World Test Championship points table after England humiliate Pakistan at home:

<img alt="Updated Points Table ENG-PAK Test series" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4c4f2813-5cf4-4194-946c-3237d9f45a26" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Points%20table_0.png" />

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-vs-england-3rd-test-england-humiliate-pakistan-by-8-wickets-complete-series-whitewash-544687">Pakistan v England 3rd Test: Pakistan suffer first-ever home Test series whitewash as England win by 8 wickets</a>

At the post-match presentation, England captain Stokes said, "Perfect (sums up the Test series). We got a process in which we want to play, the challenge is to play on different kinds of pitches and we stuck to our gameplan and adapted really well with bat and ball. Everyone delivered. Lot spoken about the way we bat, but our bowling stood up as well. It comes down to belief. The belief we have on the team in what we were trying to do and it resonates around everybody, it's unbelievable and to be able to lead the group full of confidence, it's amazing. Every person stood up at some point and put on some kind of match winning performance."

Pakistan are out of the race for a spot in the WTC final whereas England -- eliminated much before -- ended their run in the second cycle with a historic Test series triumph on Pakistani soil. This was their first Test series in Pakistan since 2005.

England completed a historic Test series whitewash over hosts Pakistan on Tuesday (December 20). Resuming Day 4 needing just 55 more to chase down a paltry 167, with eight wickets in hand, opener Ben Duckett (82 not out) and Ben Stokes' 35 not out took England to a convincing win.

England completed a historic Test series whitewash over hosts Pakistan on Tuesday (December 20). Resuming Day 4 needing just 55 more to chase down a paltry 167, with eight wickets in hand, opener Ben Duckett (82 not out) and Ben Stokes' 35 not out took England to a convincing win. In addition, this became the first time that hosts Pakistan were whitewashed in whites at home. Talking about the third and final Test, England already had an unassailable 2-0 lead. Pakistan won the toss and opted to bat first at their happy hunting ground; i.e. the National Stadium, Karachi. Riding on captain Babar Azam's 78 and Agha Salman's 56, Pakistan only managed 304. In reply, Harry Brooks scored yet another century in the series -- his third overall -- whereas fifties from Ollie Pope and Ben Foakes took England to 354 all-out, grabbing a vital 50-run lead. In the third innings, Pakistan once again fell flat with many of their batters getting starts but none managing to stay for long. Babar (54), Saud Shakeel (53) were the top scorers but Jack Leach (ending with a seven-fer in the match) and debutant Rehan Ahmed (returning with a five-fer in only his second innings) rattled the hosts for 216 before England chased down 167 on the penultimate day's morning session. Here's the updated ICC World Test Championship points table after England humiliate Pakistan at home: Also read: Pakistan v England 3rd Test: Pakistan suffer first-ever home Test series whitewash as England win by 8 wickets At the post-match presentation, England captain Stokes said, "Perfect (sums up the Test series). We got a process in which we want to play, the challenge is to play on different kinds of pitches and we stuck to our gameplan and adapted really well with bat and ball. Everyone delivered. Lot spoken about the way we bat, but our bowling stood up as well. It comes down to belief. The belief we have on the team in what we were trying to do and it resonates around everybody, it's unbelievable and to be able to lead the group full of confidence, it's amazing. Every person stood up at some point and put on some kind of match winning performance." Pakistan are out of the race for a spot in the WTC final whereas England -- eliminated much before -- ended their run in the second cycle with a historic Test series triumph on Pakistani soil. This was their first Test series in Pakistan since 2005.

Updated ICC World Test Championship points table after England whitewash Pakistan in Karachi

In a run-feast in Rawalpindi, England beat Pakistan by 74 runs to win the first Test and take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. On Day 5, all three results were possible but Ben Stokes &amp; Co. were rewarded for their brave and attacking approach as they beat Babar Azam &amp; Co. in the&nbsp;riveting final&nbsp;moments of the contest.

Opting to bat first, England rode on centuries from Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, OIlie Pope and Harry Brooks to be dismissed for 657 (in 101 overs) in their first innings. In reply, Pakistan also made a mammoth 579, courtesy of hundreds from Imam-ul-Haq, Abdullah Shafique and Babar, but gave a vital 78-run lead to the visitors who smashed 264/7 in 35.5 overs and declared; setting up a challenging 343-run target.

On the final day, Pakistan were 259 for 5 are seemed like cruising towards the total before James Anderson-Ollie Robinson's four wickets each and Jack Leach chipped in with the last wicket to take their side home; dismissing Pakistan for 268. With this defeat, Pakistan have dented their chances of qualifying for the second&nbsp;ICC World Test Championship final.

Here's how Pakistan's loss is India's gain

Babar &amp; Co. aren't out of contention yet. They are placed&nbsp;fifth in the table, however,&nbsp;wins for Australia or India in their respective upcoming Test series will end Pakistan's chances of entering the final.&nbsp;

On the other hand, if Rohit Sharma's India&nbsp;clean sweep Bangladesh, they can now afford to lose at least one of their upcoming four Tests versus Pat Cummins-led Australia at home, early next year, in a bid to qualify. For Australia, if they whitewash West Indies on home soil and beat South Africa in two out of the upcoming three Tests, Down Under, they would also make it&nbsp;to the&nbsp;summit clash.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/updated-icc-world-test-championship-points-table-after-england-beat-pakistan-in-rawalpindi-540232">Updated ICC World Test Championship points table after England beat Pakistan in Rawalpindi</a>

After the loss, Babar said at the post-match presentation, "We were not upto the mark. Had a golden chance in the second innings, but session by session we lost wickets. Our bowling group is young. Unfortunately Haris injured himself in the first innings. All credit to the bowlers who bowled well and tried without Haris. We try to stick to our plans. Difficult when opponent goes at 7 an over. We had an opportunity in the second innings. But we didn't get partnerships in the end. Lot of positives. Our batting performed very well. Bowling also very well."

Pakistan will also host New Zealand after the England series. However, they have spoiled their chances of going ahead with a loss in the England series opener.

In a run-feast in Rawalpindi, England beat Pakistan by 74 runs to win the first Test and take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. On Day 5, all three results were possible but Ben Stokes & Co.

In a run-feast in Rawalpindi, England beat Pakistan by 74 runs to win the first Test and take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. On Day 5, all three results were possible but Ben Stokes & Co. were rewarded for their brave and attacking approach as they beat Babar Azam & Co. in the riveting final moments of the contest. Opting to bat first, England rode on centuries from Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, OIlie Pope and Harry Brooks to be dismissed for 657 (in 101 overs) in their first innings. In reply, Pakistan also made a mammoth 579, courtesy of hundreds from Imam-ul-Haq, Abdullah Shafique and Babar, but gave a vital 78-run lead to the visitors who smashed 264/7 in 35.5 overs and declared; setting up a challenging 343-run target. On the final day, Pakistan were 259 for 5 are seemed like cruising towards the total before James Anderson-Ollie Robinson's four wickets each and Jack Leach chipped in with the last wicket to take their side home; dismissing Pakistan for 268. With this defeat, Pakistan have dented their chances of qualifying for the second ICC World Test Championship final. Here's how Pakistan's loss is India's gain Babar & Co. aren't out of contention yet. They are placed fifth in the table, however, wins for Australia or India in their respective upcoming Test series will end Pakistan's chances of entering the final. On the other hand, if Rohit Sharma's India clean sweep Bangladesh, they can now afford to lose at least one of their upcoming four Tests versus Pat Cummins-led Australia at home, early next year, in a bid to qualify. For Australia, if they whitewash West Indies on home soil and beat South Africa in two out of the upcoming three Tests, Down Under, they would also make it to the summit clash. Also read: Updated ICC World Test Championship points table after England beat Pakistan in Rawalpindi After the loss, Babar said at the post-match presentation, "We were not upto the mark. Had a golden chance in the second innings, but session by session we lost wickets. Our bowling group is young. Unfortunately Haris injured himself in the first innings. All credit to the bowlers who bowled well and tried without Haris. We try to stick to our plans. Difficult when opponent goes at 7 an over. We had an opportunity in the second innings. But we didn't get partnerships in the end. Lot of positives. Our batting performed very well. Bowling also very well." Pakistan will also host New Zealand after the England series. However, they have spoiled their chances of going ahead with a loss in the England series opener.

EXPLAINED: How Pakistan's 74-run loss vs England is a gain for India with WTC final ticket at stake

The calendar year is coming to an end. A lot of action took place in the sporting arena after the Covid-19 pandemic wreaked havoc in 2020.&nbsp;Some big-ticket tournaments took place in the 22-yard cricket strip, which tested Team India (the senior men's team)&nbsp;to the core. While India continued to dominate in Tests, despite missing out on the coveted WTC title in the inaugural cycle's finale, they were decent in ODIs but had a forgettable campaign in the T20 World Cup in UAE. Talking about Virat Kohli, the 33-year-old had a rather ordinary calendar year with the end quarter turning into a nightmare.&nbsp;

The superstar cricketer, who remains the poster boy of Indian cricket, finished 2021 without being able to lead India to an ICC title and went on to dent his terms with BCCI and the current selection committee in early December. In addition, the right-hander ended without a hundred in international cricket (with his century drought lasting for over two years).&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/from-conquering-aussies-down-under-to-t20-world-cup-debacle-team-india-in-2021-435891">From conquering Aussies Down Under to T20 World Cup debacle: Team India in 2021</a>

KING KOHLI BECOMES A PROUD FATHER&nbsp;BEFORE NATIONAL DUTY RESUMES

The year started for Kohli with some needless noise on his much-talked about paternity leave. On January 11, Kohli turned proud father&nbsp;as he welcomed his first child, daughter named Vamika, along with wife Anushka Sharma.&nbsp;

Watching India's glorious run in the Australia Tests Down Under by being miles away, Kohli returned to international cricket to take charge in the home Tests versus England. Losing his first Test of the year versus Joe Root &amp; Co., Kohli inspired India's comeback as the hosts romped past the Englishmen in the remainder of the series to win the four-match series 3-1&nbsp;and book a place in the WTC final.&nbsp;

Kohli, however, ended the series with 172 runs, including two fifty-plus scores, at an average of 28.66.&nbsp;

India then turned to the five T20Is and three ODIs against the same opposition. Facing a competitive Eoin Morgan-led side, India were tested before they won the series 3-2. The then Indian captain Kohli ended with 231 runs (most runs in bilateral T20Is involving Test-playing nations) to be adjudged the Player-of-the-Series.&nbsp;

In the ODIs, Kohli had two good outings with two fifties, but continued to remain away from triple-figure knocks.&nbsp;He, however, led his troops to a 2-1 series win. He was tested to the core as captain in terms of his bowling changes and field settings throughout the series against the ODI World champions.&nbsp;

IPL AMID COVID-19 SECOND WAVE

The IPL 2021 edition was the next assignment for Kohli. Leading the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), the right-hander started the season on a high with back-to-back victories. While RCB did lose the plot to an extend before the COVID-19 second wave halted the tournament, Kohli's numbers with the bat was pretty mediocre with 198 runs at 33 in 7 games. His strike-rate remained below 120 on six outings.

GLORIOUS CHANCE RUINED IN WTC FINAL

The biggest assignment for Kohli, both as captain and batsman, came when he led India to the WTC final versus New Zealand in Southampton in mid-June. While many termed India as the overwhelming favourites, it seemed as if Kohli would finally be able to break the national side's jinx of not being able to win an ICC title since 2013. However, all hopes were dented as his year remained ordinary.&nbsp;

His returns with the bat were 44&nbsp;and 13&nbsp;as India lost convincingly by 8 wickets to lose the marquee title. Thus, the team had no choice but to revamp soon as the second cycle commenced with India's five Tests versus England in the United Kingdom, from August 3.

THE HIGHS AGAINST HOSTS ENGLAND

While India rode on KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma's batting performances, Kohli continued to remain below par despite few good innings. He averaged only 31.14 after the series was interrupted due to Covid crisis in Indian camp after the fourth and penultimate Test.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/md-kaif-acknowledges-trouble-shooter-rahul-dravids-presence-in-team-india-amid-virat-kohli-vs-bcci-row-439634">Md Kaif acknowledges 'trouble-shooter' Rahul Dravid's presence in Team India amid Virat Kohli vs BCCI row</a>

TWO BIG ANNOUNCEMENTS - WHO SAW IT COMING?

The action moved to the second and final leg of IPL 2021, in the UAE. Kohli returned to lead RCB after making two massive announcements.&nbsp;

In mid-September, Kohli announced his decision to step aside as the T20I captain. He tweeted saying, "I have been fortunate enough to not only represent India but also lead the Indian Cricket Team to my utmost capability. I thank everyone who has supported me in my journey as the Captain of the Indian Cricket Team."

"I couldn't have done it without them - the boys, the support staff, the selection committee, my coaches, and each and every Indian who prayed for us to win. Understanding workload is a very important thing and considering my immense workload over the last 8-9 years playing all 3 formats and captaining regularly for last 5-6 years, I feel I need to give myself space to be fully ready to lead the Indian Team in Test and ODI Cricket. I have given everything to the Team during my time as T20 Captain and I will continue to do so for the T20 Team as a batsman moving forward."

"Of course, arriving at this decision took a lot of time. After a lot of contemplation and discussions with my close people, Ravi bhai and also Rohit, who have been an essential part of the leadership group, I've decided to step down as the T20 Captain after this T20 World Cup in Dubai in October. I have also spoken to the secretary Mr Jay Shah and the President of BCCI Mr Sourav Ganguly along with all the selectors about the same. I will continue to serve Indian Cricket and the Indian Team to the best of my ability."

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🇮🇳 ❤️ <a href="https://t.co/Ds7okjhj9J">pic.twitter.com/Ds7okjhj9J</a>
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/1438478585518456832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 16, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Thus, a prolonged dry spell with the bat, bio-bubble restrictions and burden of leading across formats hampered even someone of the statute of King Kohli. It was visible as while his ardent fans always waited for the real Kohli to show up, but he often kept returning with below-par performances as per his standards (For the unversed, vital knocks kept coming from his willow at regular intervals. However, one cannot get content with substandard showings when it comes to the superstar cricketer).

The day IPL 14 resumed, on September 19 in the UAE, Kohli also announced that this will be his last season as RCB captain. He said, "This will be my last IPL as captain of RCB. I’ll continue to be an RCB player till I play my last IPL game. I thank all the RCB fans for believing in me and supporting me."

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Virat Kohli to step down from RCB captaincy after <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2021</a> 
 
“This will be my last IPL as captain of RCB. I’ll continue to be an RCB player till I play my last IPL game. I thank all the RCB fans for believing in me and supporting me.”: Virat Kohli<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PlayBold?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PlayBold</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WeAreChallengers?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WeAreChallengers</a> <a href="https://t.co/QSIdCT8QQM">pic.twitter.com/QSIdCT8QQM</a>
— Royal Challengers Bangalore (@RCBTweets) <a href="https://twitter.com/RCBTweets/status/1439635618846281728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
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NO IPL TROPHY OR T20 WC HEROICS

Thus, Kohli entered the IPL final leg with his loyalists hoping for him to sign off&nbsp;on a high as captain;&nbsp;winning RCB and his maiden trophy. Nonetheless, it didn't turn out that way as Bengaluru lost in the Eliminator with Kohli ending the season with 405 runs in 14 games at 119.46.&nbsp;

Post the IPL, Kohli moved to the T20 World Cup, which was to be his last assignment as T20I captain. Needless to say, the countrymen hoped for him to take India to the title and also sign off on a fitting note as the captain in the shortest format. However, Kohli endured back-to-back failures as India bowed out in the Super 12 round, also becoming the first Indian captain to lose a WC clash versus the Men in Green.&nbsp;

Kohli's dubious captaincy calls hogged headlines before India's untimely exit. Meanwhile, he finished with 68 runs in 5 games, with a high-score of 57 and not batting at all on two instances.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-think-virat-kohlis-relation-with-rahul-dravid-will-be-good-in-long-run-predicts-danish-kaneria-439563">Don't think Virat Kohli's relation with Rahul Dravid will be good in long run, predicts Danish Kaneria</a>

While Kohli was on a break during India's home T20Is and first Test versus New Zealand, he returned back to action for the second and final Test against the Black Caps. He led India with aplomb as they achieved their biggest win in terms of runs but once again couldn't break his century-drought, returning with 0 and 36. He has four ducks in Tests in 2021 with one more match to go in the calendar year.&nbsp;

BCCI ROW&nbsp;

On December 8, BCCI removed Kohli as the ODI captain and appointed Rohit as the limited-overs skipper. While many speculated a rift between the two cricketers, Kohli rubbished all such rumours in an explosive presser before India's departure to South Africa. However, he made some glaring statements, contradicting from the claims made by BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly and a board member.&nbsp;

While Ganguly had claimed that he had requested Kohli to keep the top job in T20Is, as captain, Kohli denied all such claims. Moreover, he also stated that he was always available for the SA ODIs, contrary to statements made by BCCI treasurer Arun Dhamal.&nbsp;

Hence, it has now become BCCI vs Kohli as things have continued to go downhill for the 33-year-old batsman. Overall, 2021 has been a mixed bag for Kohli and he will be tested in the new calendar year as well. After all, he has endured more disappointments than spirited highs.&nbsp;

The calendar year is coming to an end. A lot of action took place in the sporting arena after the Covid-19 pandemic wreaked havoc in 2020. Some big-ticket tournaments took place in the 22-yard cricket strip, which tested Team India (the senior men's team) to the core.

The calendar year is coming to an end. A lot of action took place in the sporting arena after the Covid-19 pandemic wreaked havoc in 2020. Some big-ticket tournaments took place in the 22-yard cricket strip, which tested Team India (the senior men's team) to the core. While India continued to dominate in Tests, despite missing out on the coveted WTC title in the inaugural cycle's finale, they were decent in ODIs but had a forgettable campaign in the T20 World Cup in UAE. Talking about Virat Kohli, the 33-year-old had a rather ordinary calendar year with the end quarter turning into a nightmare. The superstar cricketer, who remains the poster boy of Indian cricket, finished 2021 without being able to lead India to an ICC title and went on to dent his terms with BCCI and the current selection committee in early December. In addition, the right-hander ended without a hundred in international cricket (with his century drought lasting for over two years). ALSO READ | From conquering Aussies Down Under to T20 World Cup debacle: Team India in 2021 KING KOHLI BECOMES A PROUD FATHER BEFORE NATIONAL DUTY RESUMES The year started for Kohli with some needless noise on his much-talked about paternity leave. On January 11, Kohli turned proud father as he welcomed his first child, daughter named Vamika, along with wife Anushka Sharma. Watching India's glorious run in the Australia Tests Down Under by being miles away, Kohli returned to international cricket to take charge in the home Tests versus England. Losing his first Test of the year versus Joe Root & Co., Kohli inspired India's comeback as the hosts romped past the Englishmen in the remainder of the series to win the four-match series 3-1 and book a place in the WTC final. Kohli, however, ended the series with 172 runs, including two fifty-plus scores, at an average of 28.66. India then turned to the five T20Is and three ODIs against the same opposition. Facing a competitive Eoin Morgan-led side, India were tested before they won the series 3-2. The then Indian captain Kohli ended with 231 runs (most runs in bilateral T20Is involving Test-playing nations) to be adjudged the Player-of-the-Series. In the ODIs, Kohli had two good outings with two fifties, but continued to remain away from triple-figure knocks. He, however, led his troops to a 2-1 series win. He was tested to the core as captain in terms of his bowling changes and field settings throughout the series against the ODI World champions. IPL AMID COVID-19 SECOND WAVE The IPL 2021 edition was the next assignment for Kohli. Leading the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), the right-hander started the season on a high with back-to-back victories. While RCB did lose the plot to an extend before the COVID-19 second wave halted the tournament, Kohli's numbers with the bat was pretty mediocre with 198 runs at 33 in 7 games. His strike-rate remained below 120 on six outings. GLORIOUS CHANCE RUINED IN WTC FINAL The biggest assignment for Kohli, both as captain and batsman, came when he led India to the WTC final versus New Zealand in Southampton in mid-June. While many termed India as the overwhelming favourites, it seemed as if Kohli would finally be able to break the national side's jinx of not being able to win an ICC title since 2013. However, all hopes were dented as his year remained ordinary. His returns with the bat were 44 and 13 as India lost convincingly by 8 wickets to lose the marquee title. Thus, the team had no choice but to revamp soon as the second cycle commenced with India's five Tests versus England in the United Kingdom, from August 3. THE HIGHS AGAINST HOSTS ENGLAND While India rode on KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma's batting performances, Kohli continued to remain below par despite few good innings. He averaged only 31.14 after the series was interrupted due to Covid crisis in Indian camp after the fourth and penultimate Test. ALSO READ | Md Kaif acknowledges 'trouble-shooter' Rahul Dravid's presence in Team India amid Virat Kohli vs BCCI row TWO BIG ANNOUNCEMENTS - WHO SAW IT COMING? The action moved to the second and final leg of IPL 2021, in the UAE. Kohli returned to lead RCB after making two massive announcements. In mid-September, Kohli announced his decision to step aside as the T20I captain. He tweeted saying, "I have been fortunate enough to not only represent India but also lead the Indian Cricket Team to my utmost capability. I thank everyone who has supported me in my journey as the Captain of the Indian Cricket Team." "I couldn't have done it without them - the boys, the support staff, the selection committee, my coaches, and each and every Indian who prayed for us to win. Understanding workload is a very important thing and considering my immense workload over the last 8-9 years playing all 3 formats and captaining regularly for last 5-6 years, I feel I need to give myself space to be fully ready to lead the Indian Team in Test and ODI Cricket. I have given everything to the Team during my time as T20 Captain and I will continue to do so for the T20 Team as a batsman moving forward." "Of course, arriving at this decision took a lot of time. After a lot of contemplation and discussions with my close people, Ravi bhai and also Rohit, who have been an essential part of the leadership group, I've decided to step down as the T20 Captain after this T20 World Cup in Dubai in October. I have also spoken to the secretary Mr Jay Shah and the President of BCCI Mr Sourav Ganguly along with all the selectors about the same. I will continue to serve Indian Cricket and the Indian Team to the best of my ability." 🇮🇳 ❤️ pic.twitter.com/Ds7okjhj9J — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) September 16, 2021 × Thus, a prolonged dry spell with the bat, bio-bubble restrictions and burden of leading across formats hampered even someone of the statute of King Kohli. It was visible as while his ardent fans always waited for the real Kohli to show up, but he often kept returning with below-par performances as per his standards (For the unversed, vital knocks kept coming from his willow at regular intervals. However, one cannot get content with substandard showings when it comes to the superstar cricketer). The day IPL 14 resumed, on September 19 in the UAE, Kohli also announced that this will be his last season as RCB captain. He said, "This will be my last IPL as captain of RCB. I’ll continue to be an RCB player till I play my last IPL game. I thank all the RCB fans for believing in me and supporting me." Virat Kohli to step down from RCB captaincy after #IPL2021 “This will be my last IPL as captain of RCB. I’ll continue to be an RCB player till I play my last IPL game. I thank all the RCB fans for believing in me and supporting me.”: Virat Kohli#PlayBold #WeAreChallengers pic.twitter.com/QSIdCT8QQM — Royal Challengers Bangalore (@RCBTweets) September 19, 2021 × NO IPL TROPHY OR T20 WC HEROICS Thus, Kohli entered the IPL final leg with his loyalists hoping for him to sign off on a high as captain; winning RCB and his maiden trophy. Nonetheless, it didn't turn out that way as Bengaluru lost in the Eliminator with Kohli ending the season with 405 runs in 14 games at 119.46. Post the IPL, Kohli moved to the T20 World Cup, which was to be his last assignment as T20I captain. Needless to say, the countrymen hoped for him to take India to the title and also sign off on a fitting note as the captain in the shortest format. However, Kohli endured back-to-back failures as India bowed out in the Super 12 round, also becoming the first Indian captain to lose a WC clash versus the Men in Green. Kohli's dubious captaincy calls hogged headlines before India's untimely exit. Meanwhile, he finished with 68 runs in 5 games, with a high-score of 57 and not batting at all on two instances. ALSO READ | Don't think Virat Kohli's relation with Rahul Dravid will be good in long run, predicts Danish Kaneria While Kohli was on a break during India's home T20Is and first Test versus New Zealand, he returned back to action for the second and final Test against the Black Caps. He led India with aplomb as they achieved their biggest win in terms of runs but once again couldn't break his century-drought, returning with 0 and 36. He has four ducks in Tests in 2021 with one more match to go in the calendar year. BCCI ROW On December 8, BCCI removed Kohli as the ODI captain and appointed Rohit as the limited-overs skipper. While many speculated a rift between the two cricketers, Kohli rubbished all such rumours in an explosive presser before India's departure to South Africa. However, he made some glaring statements, contradicting from the claims made by BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly and a board member. While Ganguly had claimed that he had requested Kohli to keep the top job in T20Is, as captain, Kohli denied all such claims. Moreover, he also stated that he was always available for the SA ODIs, contrary to statements made by BCCI treasurer Arun Dhamal. Hence, it has now become BCCI vs Kohli as things have continued to go downhill for the 33-year-old batsman. Overall, 2021 has been a mixed bag for Kohli and he will be tested in the new calendar year as well. After all, he has endured more disappointments than spirited highs.

No IPL title or ICC silverware, captaincy resignation and BCCI row: Reliving Virat Kohli's eventful 2021

Rain gods played spoilsport again on Monday as Day 4 of the World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand at the Hampshire Bowl in Southampton – the second time in the match wherein a day has been completely washed out.<o:p></o:p>

Rain was persistent overnight and early morning on Monday which meant the pitch and parts of the square at the Hampshire Bowl remained under covers throughout the course of the day.<o:p></o:p>

The play was finally called off for the day at 3:00 pm (1400 GMT), with Friday's first day having suffered a similar fate.<o:p></o:p>

Interestingly, the match referee Chris Broad has a special call to extend the WTC final into a sixth day if he feels it will help complete the match after the time lost due to rain and bad light. <o:p></o:p>

A high-quality day of cricket on Sunday was cut short due to bad light despite the floodlights being on at the Hampshire Bowl. New Zealand ended the day with 101-2 after India were bundled out for 217.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-icc-should-have-developed-a-criteria-to-decide-a-winner-says-sunil-gavaskar-392980" hreflang="en">WTC Final: ICC should have developed a criteria to decide a winner, says Sunil Gavaskar</a><o:p></o:p>

New Zealand’s Kyle Jamieson was the wrecker-in-chief with 31 for 5 in 22 overs with the towering pacer picking up his fifth five-fer in his eighth Test.<o:p></o:p>

Indian pacers were not up to the mark with the new ball but came back strong with Mohammed Shami and Ravichandran Ashwin being the pick of the bowlers for the Kohli-led outfit.<o:p></o:p>

This match, the culmination of the inaugural World Test Championship that has spanned two years of series between the leading Test nations, is worth $1.6 million to the winners and $800,000 to the runners-up.<o:p></o:p>

Rain gods played spoilsport again on Monday as Day 4 of the World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand at the Hampshire Bowl in Southampton – the second time in the match wherein a day has been completely washed out.

Rain gods played spoilsport again on Monday as Day 4 of the World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand at the Hampshire Bowl in Southampton – the second time in the match wherein a day has been completely washed out. Rain was persistent overnight and early morning on Monday which meant the pitch and parts of the square at the Hampshire Bowl remained under covers throughout the course of the day. The play was finally called off for the day at 3:00 pm (1400 GMT), with Friday's first day having suffered a similar fate. Interestingly, the match referee Chris Broad has a special call to extend the WTC final into a sixth day if he feels it will help complete the match after the time lost due to rain and bad light. A high-quality day of cricket on Sunday was cut short due to bad light despite the floodlights being on at the Hampshire Bowl. New Zealand ended the day with 101-2 after India were bundled out for 217. ALSO READ: WTC Final: ICC should have developed a criteria to decide a winner, says Sunil Gavaskar New Zealand’s Kyle Jamieson was the wrecker-in-chief with 31 for 5 in 22 overs with the towering pacer picking up his fifth five-fer in his eighth Test. Indian pacers were not up to the mark with the new ball but came back strong with Mohammed Shami and Ravichandran Ashwin being the pick of the bowlers for the Kohli-led outfit. This match, the culmination of the inaugural World Test Championship that has spanned two years of series between the leading Test nations, is worth $1.6 million to the winners and $800,000 to the runners-up.

Cricket: Rain washes out Day 4 of ICC World Test Championship final

Fans of cricket are eagerly waiting for the ICC World Test Championship Final, scheduled to be played from June 18 in Southampton between India and New Zealand. While the two top Test sides have played terrific cricket over the inaugural WTC cycle, the fans are looking forward to witnessing who will come victorious in the much-awaited summit clash.<o:p></o:p>

India have lost just one series in the WTC cycle, against Zealand, and would be looking to turn the tables when they take on the Black Caps in the final on Friday.<o:p></o:p>

However, the weather conditions might play spoilsport with spells of rain and overcast conditions predicted during the course of the match.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-ravindra-jadeja-just-away-46-runs-from-entering-an-elite-list-in-test-cricket-391980" hreflang="en">WTC final: Ravindra Jadeja just away 46 runs from entering an elite list in Test cricket</a><o:p></o:p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Ahead of the WTC Final, let us take a look at the day-wise weather forecast in Southampton: <o:p></o:p></h2>

Day 1-June 18<o:p></o:p>

The weather is predicted to be overcast on Day 1 with spells of showers and thunderstorms. The play is likely to be affected by the weather and the match might lose a few overs. <o:p></o:p>

Day 2- June 19<o:p></o:p>

The weather conditions on Day 2 will gradually improve. While it is expected to remain overcast, not much rain is anticipated by the experts. However, with fickle English conditions, one can never predict when rain gods decide to come into the play. <o:p></o:p>

Day 3- June 20<o:p></o:p>

Plenty of rain is expected on Day 3 with windy conditions as well. While overs are expected to be lost on Day 3, pacers will enjoy the play if they get some cricket. <o:p></o:p>

Day 4- June 21<o:p></o:p>

Partly cloudy conditions are expected on Day 4 and it will be much better than Day 3. While no rain is expected, overcast conditions might assist the pacers again, making it difficult for batters.<o:p></o:p>

Day 5- June 22<o:p></o:p>

Cloudy conditions with a spell of showers in the morning and afternoon are predicted. While overs are likely to be lost on Day 5, the players would be eager to take the field in the evening as the forecast suggests there will be a clear sky after a passage of rain in the afternoon. <o:p></o:p>

Day 6- June 23 (Reserve Day)<o:p></o:p>

If the match moves to the reserve day, the weather is expected to partly sunny and fans could expect the match to be continued without any substantial delay.<o:p></o:p>

Fans of cricket are eagerly waiting for the ICC World Test Championship Final, scheduled to be played from June 18 in Southampton between India and New Zealand. While the two top Test sides have played terrific cricket over the inaugural WTC cycle, the fans are looking forward to witnessing who will come victorious in the much-awaited summit clash.

Fans of cricket are eagerly waiting for the ICC World Test Championship Final, scheduled to be played from June 18 in Southampton between India and New Zealand. While the two top Test sides have played terrific cricket over the inaugural WTC cycle, the fans are looking forward to witnessing who will come victorious in the much-awaited summit clash. India have lost just one series in the WTC cycle, against Zealand, and would be looking to turn the tables when they take on the Black Caps in the final on Friday. However, the weather conditions might play spoilsport with spells of rain and overcast conditions predicted during the course of the match. ALSO READ: WTC final: Ravindra Jadeja just away 46 runs from entering an elite list in Test cricket Ahead of the WTC Final, let us take a look at the day-wise weather forecast in Southampton: Day 1-June 18 The weather is predicted to be overcast on Day 1 with spells of showers and thunderstorms. The play is likely to be affected by the weather and the match might lose a few overs. Day 2- June 19 The weather conditions on Day 2 will gradually improve. While it is expected to remain overcast, not much rain is anticipated by the experts. However, with fickle English conditions, one can never predict when rain gods decide to come into the play. Day 3- June 20 Plenty of rain is expected on Day 3 with windy conditions as well. While overs are expected to be lost on Day 3, pacers will enjoy the play if they get some cricket. Day 4- June 21 Partly cloudy conditions are expected on Day 4 and it will be much better than Day 3. While no rain is expected, overcast conditions might assist the pacers again, making it difficult for batters. Day 5- June 22 Cloudy conditions with a spell of showers in the morning and afternoon are predicted. While overs are likely to be lost on Day 5, the players would be eager to take the field in the evening as the forecast suggests there will be a clear sky after a passage of rain in the afternoon. Day 6- June 23 (Reserve Day) If the match moves to the reserve day, the weather is expected to partly sunny and fans could expect the match to be continued without any substantial delay.

Cricket: WTC Final, India vs New Zealand: Day-wise weather forecast as rain threat looms in Southampton

When New Zealand lost the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2019, Ross Taylor thought he might have missed his last chance at winning a major final.

Two years later, the Black Caps batsman is back in England, looking to make amends after the Super Over loss at Lord’s as New Zealand and India prepare to face off in the ICC World Test Championship Final in Southampton.

And the 37-year-old admits that had he come out on the right side of that dramatic finale, there is a very good chance he would have called it a day.&nbsp;

He said: “It was disappointing to have lost that match at Lord’s a couple of years ago. When you lose and you’re at the age that I was, you think that might be the last time I ever get to play a World Cup final, so it’s nice for me to be here.&nbsp;

“If we had won that game, I might have retired after that, so I’m glad that I didn’t and that I’m here today.

“I just think it’s really exciting to be here, the whole New Zealand side are really excited, it’s going to be a great occasion, playing against India. We’ve only been number one for a few weeks, they have been number one for five or six years so they are going to be a really hard opposition to play against, but we’re looking forward to that.”&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-looking-forward-to-the-challenge-ross-taylor-eager-to-face-very-tough-opposition-india-391692" hreflang="en">WTC Final: 'Looking forward to the challenge' - Ross Taylor eager to face 'very tough opposition' India</a>

While Taylor was considering retirement in 2019, one man who will be calling time on his Test career after the Final is New Zealand wicket-keeper BJ Watling.&nbsp;

The 35-year-old made his Test debut back in 2009 and is set to make his 75th&nbsp;and final appearance for New Zealand in the longest format of the game, earning high praise from his coach Gary Stead.

Stead said: “BJ is a fantastic player, a great team man. He’s turned himself into, I think, one of the best keeper-batsmen in the world over the past 10 years of him playing. Let’s also remember he was a manufactured keeper as such, it wasn’t his first thing to do. The way he’s developed himself and continued to look to get better over that period of time is pretty amazing.

“I don’t think we as a team will realise how much we’ll miss BJ in the dressing room and in the role he is in until he’s not there. He’s a quiet individual but when he speaks, people listen. He’s very popular among the whole team. He will be a sad loss for us but we want to celebrate in style hopefully, and send him out on the right note.”&nbsp;

Pujara looking forward to WTC Final:&nbsp;For India batsman Cheteshwar Pujara, a Test specialist, the ICC World Test Championship offers a rare opportunity to play in a major final.&nbsp;

And the 33-year-old is relishing the opportunity as India ramp up their preparations following an inter-squad warm-up match.

He said: “Personally, it means a lot to me. Playing one format, the Test format, this is the first time we are playing the World Test Championship Finals. As a team we have worked over a period of time, you play so many series at home and away from home. To be at the top requires a lot of hard work.

“It’s like playing a World Cup final in any format. This is the first time in the Test format, but playing an ODI World Cup final or even a T20 World Cup final, it’s very similar to that. Personally, I’m looking forward to it, and as a team we are looking forward to it.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-wtc-format-helps-as-test-cricket-needs-to-survive-says-cheteshwar-pujara-391685" hreflang="en">Cricket: WTC format helps as Test cricket needs to survive, says Cheteshwar Pujara</a>

“It will be challenging but we have been through a lot of preparation recently. The time we have had here, in the last nine or 10 days, we have tried to use it to the fullest. As a team, we are very well-prepared. We have the experience, most of the guys have played in England in the past, so I think we are up for the challenge, so we are very confident.”&nbsp;

The squads:

India:&nbsp;Virat Kohli (captain), Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant, Wriddhiman Saha, Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma, Mohammad Shami, Md Siraj, Umesh Yadav.

New Zealand:&nbsp;Kane Williamson (captain), Tom Blundell, Trent Boult, Devon Conway, Colin de Grandhomme, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Tom Latham, Henry Nicholls, Ajaz Patel, Tim Southee,&nbsp;Ross Taylor, Neil Wagner, BJ Watling, Will Young.

When New Zealand lost the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2019, Ross Taylor thought he might have missed his last chance at winning a major final. Two years later, the Black Caps batsman is back in England, looking to make amends after the Super Over loss at Lord’s as New Zealand and India prepare to face off in the ICC World Test Championship Final in Southampton.

When New Zealand lost the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2019, Ross Taylor thought he might have missed his last chance at winning a major final. Two years later, the Black Caps batsman is back in England, looking to make amends after the Super Over loss at Lord’s as New Zealand and India prepare to face off in the ICC World Test Championship Final in Southampton. And the 37-year-old admits that had he come out on the right side of that dramatic finale, there is a very good chance he would have called it a day. He said: “It was disappointing to have lost that match at Lord’s a couple of years ago. When you lose and you’re at the age that I was, you think that might be the last time I ever get to play a World Cup final, so it’s nice for me to be here. “If we had won that game, I might have retired after that, so I’m glad that I didn’t and that I’m here today. “I just think it’s really exciting to be here, the whole New Zealand side are really excited, it’s going to be a great occasion, playing against India. We’ve only been number one for a few weeks, they have been number one for five or six years so they are going to be a really hard opposition to play against, but we’re looking forward to that.” ALSO READ: WTC Final: 'Looking forward to the challenge' - Ross Taylor eager to face 'very tough opposition' India While Taylor was considering retirement in 2019, one man who will be calling time on his Test career after the Final is New Zealand wicket-keeper BJ Watling. The 35-year-old made his Test debut back in 2009 and is set to make his 75th and final appearance for New Zealand in the longest format of the game, earning high praise from his coach Gary Stead. Stead said: “BJ is a fantastic player, a great team man. He’s turned himself into, I think, one of the best keeper-batsmen in the world over the past 10 years of him playing. Let’s also remember he was a manufactured keeper as such, it wasn’t his first thing to do. The way he’s developed himself and continued to look to get better over that period of time is pretty amazing. “I don’t think we as a team will realise how much we’ll miss BJ in the dressing room and in the role he is in until he’s not there. He’s a quiet individual but when he speaks, people listen. He’s very popular among the whole team. He will be a sad loss for us but we want to celebrate in style hopefully, and send him out on the right note.” Pujara looking forward to WTC Final: For India batsman Cheteshwar Pujara, a Test specialist, the ICC World Test Championship offers a rare opportunity to play in a major final. And the 33-year-old is relishing the opportunity as India ramp up their preparations following an inter-squad warm-up match. He said: “Personally, it means a lot to me. Playing one format, the Test format, this is the first time we are playing the World Test Championship Finals. As a team we have worked over a period of time, you play so many series at home and away from home. To be at the top requires a lot of hard work. “It’s like playing a World Cup final in any format. This is the first time in the Test format, but playing an ODI World Cup final or even a T20 World Cup final, it’s very similar to that. Personally, I’m looking forward to it, and as a team we are looking forward to it. ALSO READ: Cricket: WTC format helps as Test cricket needs to survive, says Cheteshwar Pujara “It will be challenging but we have been through a lot of preparation recently. The time we have had here, in the last nine or 10 days, we have tried to use it to the fullest. As a team, we are very well-prepared. We have the experience, most of the guys have played in England in the past, so I think we are up for the challenge, so we are very confident.” The squads: India: Virat Kohli (captain), Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant, Wriddhiman Saha, Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma, Mohammad Shami, Md Siraj, Umesh Yadav. New Zealand: Kane Williamson (captain), Tom Blundell, Trent Boult, Devon Conway, Colin de Grandhomme, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Tom Latham, Henry Nicholls, Ajaz Patel, Tim Southee, Ross Taylor, Neil Wagner, BJ Watling, Will Young.

Cricket: Taylor targets Final redemption in ICC World Test Championship

New Zealand batsman Ross Taylor is eager to take on “really hard opponent” India in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final in Southampton, starting from Friday.<o:p></o:p>

Taylor quipped that India have been the number one side for&nbsp;long and are a very tough opponent, no matter what side they play. <o:p></o:p>

“You go through the Indian line-up, and there are just world-class players throughout. Whatever side they decide to go with, it will have world-class players. India has been a world No. 1 side for a long time. They will be very tough opposition,” Taylor said during a media interaction on Tuesday.<o:p></o:p>

New Zealand head into the WTC final after playing a two-Test series against England, which they won 1-0. Taylor said that it was an ideal preparation to take on England and get a hang of the conditions.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-wtc-format-helps-as-test-cricket-needs-to-survive-says-cheteshwar-pujara-391685" hreflang="en">Cricket: WTC format helps as Test cricket needs to survive, says Cheteshwar Pujara</a><o:p></o:p>

“It was an ideal preparation, having played two Test matches against England in these conditions. Cannot think of anything better,” Taylor said.<o:p></o:p>

However, Taylor praised the Indian bowling attack for taking on Australia on their home soil as he said it was a great watch for New Zealanders to see some world-class bowling on Aussie soil. <o:p></o:p>

“But India has been a fantastic side for a long period of time -- not only their batters, but also their bowlers. They won a series against Australia in its home summer, and it was great to watch. (It was) nice for the New Zealand public to see some world-class bowling against a very good Australian attack. They have a fair lot of success here as well. I am sure in the warm-up games or bowling at the nets, they would have enjoyed the swing and the bounce that the Dukes ball has. We are looking forward to the challenge,” he added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-bcci-announces-15-member-squad-for-wtc-final-against-new-zealand-391665" hreflang="en">Cricket: BCCI announces 15-member squad for WTC Final against New Zealand</a><o:p></o:p>

Taylor revealed that he would have retired had New Zealand won the ICC World Cup 2019. The Black Caps haven’t won an ICC event since 2000 but are looking forward to ending the long wait. <o:p></o:p>

“It is disappointing to have lost that match at Lord’s a couple of years ago. I guess, when you lose, you feel that it might be the last time you are playing a World Cup final, so it is nice for me to be here. If we did win that game, I might have retired after that. I am glad I did not, and I am here today,” he said

New Zealand batsman Ross Taylor is eager to take on “really hard opponent” India in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final in Southampton, starting from Friday.

New Zealand batsman Ross Taylor is eager to take on “really hard opponent” India in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final in Southampton, starting from Friday. Taylor quipped that India have been the number one side for long and are a very tough opponent, no matter what side they play. “You go through the Indian line-up, and there are just world-class players throughout. Whatever side they decide to go with, it will have world-class players. India has been a world No. 1 side for a long time. They will be very tough opposition,” Taylor said during a media interaction on Tuesday. New Zealand head into the WTC final after playing a two-Test series against England, which they won 1-0. Taylor said that it was an ideal preparation to take on England and get a hang of the conditions. ALSO READ: Cricket: WTC format helps as Test cricket needs to survive, says Cheteshwar Pujara “It was an ideal preparation, having played two Test matches against England in these conditions. Cannot think of anything better,” Taylor said. However, Taylor praised the Indian bowling attack for taking on Australia on their home soil as he said it was a great watch for New Zealanders to see some world-class bowling on Aussie soil. “But India has been a fantastic side for a long period of time -- not only their batters, but also their bowlers. They won a series against Australia in its home summer, and it was great to watch. (It was) nice for the New Zealand public to see some world-class bowling against a very good Australian attack. They have a fair lot of success here as well. I am sure in the warm-up games or bowling at the nets, they would have enjoyed the swing and the bounce that the Dukes ball has. We are looking forward to the challenge,” he added. ALSO READ: Cricket: BCCI announces 15-member squad for WTC Final against New Zealand Taylor revealed that he would have retired had New Zealand won the ICC World Cup 2019. The Black Caps haven’t won an ICC event since 2000 but are looking forward to ending the long wait. “It is disappointing to have lost that match at Lord’s a couple of years ago. I guess, when you lose, you feel that it might be the last time you are playing a World Cup final, so it is nice for me to be here. If we did win that game, I might have retired after that. I am glad I did not, and I am here today,” he said

WTC Final: 'Looking forward to the challenge' - Ross Taylor eager to face 'very tough opposition' India

Former New Zealand head coach Mike Hesson is expecting the upcoming World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand to be an equal contest. India take on New Zealand in a high-octane final of the World Test Championship at the Rose Bowl in Southampton, starting from June 18.<o:p></o:p>

Hesson reckons that it will be an exciting game between the two top sides in the longest format of the game while adding no injury concerns for both the teams will make it a worthwhile watch for the fans.<o:p></o:p>

"They are even. The fact that it’s being played at a neutral venue also makes the WTC final an even contest. I think both sides are going to be at their strongest, which is great. Assuming there are no injuries in the next couple of weeks, both sides will be at full strength and we are in for an exciting Test," the former New Zealand coach told TimesofIndia.com.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-i-wanted-to-perform-and-contribute-to-the-teams-win-kuldeep-yadav-389760" hreflang="en">Cricket: 'I wanted to perform and contribute to the team's win': Kuldeep Yadav</a><o:p></o:p>

Hesson has worked with both New Zealand captain Kane Williamson and Indian skipper Virat Kohli. While Hesson was the head coach of New Zealand in past, he is currently the Director of Cricket at RCB with Kohli leading the franchise.<o:p></o:p>

Comparing the two, Hesson said that Williamson is a slow-burn, who will seek a perfect time to put pressure on the opponent while Kohli wants to attack from the word go. <o:p></o:p>

"Both are very good leaders and yes, both are different in their style of captaincy. Kane is more of a slow-burn in the sense that he likes to put pressure over a period of time. Virat, on the other hand, is constantly looking for ways to put his side in the driver’s seat. The WTC final will be a test of captaincy for both Kane and Virat. As the wicket changes from day to day, it will be interesting to see how both Kane and Virat make those little tweaks in their strategies to stay ahead," Hesson said.

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New Zealand are currently playing a two-Test series against England whereas India are undergoing quarantine in Southampton.<o:p></o:p>

Former New Zealand head coach Mike Hesson is expecting the upcoming World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand to be an equal contest. India take on New Zealand in a high-octane final of the World Test Championship at the Rose Bowl in Southampton, starting from June 18.

Former New Zealand head coach Mike Hesson is expecting the upcoming World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand to be an equal contest. India take on New Zealand in a high-octane final of the World Test Championship at the Rose Bowl in Southampton, starting from June 18. Hesson reckons that it will be an exciting game between the two top sides in the longest format of the game while adding no injury concerns for both the teams will make it a worthwhile watch for the fans. "They are even. The fact that it’s being played at a neutral venue also makes the WTC final an even contest. I think both sides are going to be at their strongest, which is great. Assuming there are no injuries in the next couple of weeks, both sides will be at full strength and we are in for an exciting Test," the former New Zealand coach told TimesofIndia.com. ALSO READ: Cricket: 'I wanted to perform and contribute to the team's win': Kuldeep Yadav Hesson has worked with both New Zealand captain Kane Williamson and Indian skipper Virat Kohli. While Hesson was the head coach of New Zealand in past, he is currently the Director of Cricket at RCB with Kohli leading the franchise. Comparing the two, Hesson said that Williamson is a slow-burn, who will seek a perfect time to put pressure on the opponent while Kohli wants to attack from the word go. "Both are very good leaders and yes, both are different in their style of captaincy. Kane is more of a slow-burn in the sense that he likes to put pressure over a period of time. Virat, on the other hand, is constantly looking for ways to put his side in the driver’s seat. The WTC final will be a test of captaincy for both Kane and Virat. As the wicket changes from day to day, it will be interesting to see how both Kane and Virat make those little tweaks in their strategies to stay ahead," Hesson said. ALSO READ: Cricket: Jamieson dismisses skipper Root on the very first ball of the day - WATCH New Zealand are currently playing a two-Test series against England whereas India are undergoing quarantine in Southampton.

Cricket: Mike Hesson compares Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson's captaincy styles ahead of WTC Final

Cricketing legend Richard Hadlee has given his take on the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship Final between New Zealand and India as he said that he is looking forward to the clash between two of the best bowling and batting sides in the sport.<o:p></o:p>

The Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson led India and New Zealand, respectively, finished first and second on the ICC WTC points table. The two sides will now take each other on in the summit clash, at the Hampshire Bowl in Southampton from June 18 to 22. <o:p></o:p>

Hadlee is of the view that while cooler conditions could favour the Black Caps, the match will be decided by which side adapts to the tricky conditions the best and quickest. However, the Kiwi legend said that it is too difficult to predict a winner at this stage. <o:p></o:p>

"It all comes down as to who is better prepared and who adapts better to the English conditions the quickest," he said. "The weather may also play a part and if it is cold that will favour New Zealand. The Duke ball will suit both team’s fast bowlers especially the genuine swing bowlers and the Kiwis are well served in that department with Southee, Boult and Jamieson. If the ball seams around off the pitch, batsmen in both teams will be challenged.

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"Both teams have high-class batsmen so it will be an interesting game to watch. It is too difficult to call a winner at this stage."<o:p></o:p>

New Zealand suffered back-to-back defeats in the last two ICC World Cup Finals but Hadlee is confident that they won’t head into the match under any sort of pressure. <o:p></o:p>

"We have a proud record in 50 over World Cups. Yes, those near misses were frustrating and disappointing but we were so close to winning in 2019 at Lord’s. I would go as far as to say there were no winners and losers on that day – it was just by a technicality that England won!

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<o:p></o:p>

"The Test Championship is a one-off game. Yes, it is a final, but I don’t think either team will be too fazed about it. It is a neutral ground with no home team advantage," he said.<o:p></o:p>

&nbsp;"The Test Championship is a one-off game. Yes, it is a final, but I don’t think either team will be too fazed about it. It is a neutral ground with no home team advantage.<o:p></o:p>

"It is something to look forward to. Both teams deserve to be contesting the final because of their consistent playing performances over a set period of time."<o:p></o:p>

Cricketing legend Richard Hadlee has given his take on the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship Final between New Zealand and India as he said that he is looking forward to the clash between two of the best bowling and batting sides in the sport.

Cricketing legend Richard Hadlee has given his take on the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship Final between New Zealand and India as he said that he is looking forward to the clash between two of the best bowling and batting sides in the sport. The Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson led India and New Zealand, respectively, finished first and second on the ICC WTC points table. The two sides will now take each other on in the summit clash, at the Hampshire Bowl in Southampton from June 18 to 22. Hadlee is of the view that while cooler conditions could favour the Black Caps, the match will be decided by which side adapts to the tricky conditions the best and quickest. However, the Kiwi legend said that it is too difficult to predict a winner at this stage. "It all comes down as to who is better prepared and who adapts better to the English conditions the quickest," he said. "The weather may also play a part and if it is cold that will favour New Zealand. The Duke ball will suit both team’s fast bowlers especially the genuine swing bowlers and the Kiwis are well served in that department with Southee, Boult and Jamieson. If the ball seams around off the pitch, batsmen in both teams will be challenged. ALSO READ: Cricket: IPL postponement to help India prepare better for WTC final, reckons Ross Taylor "Both teams have high-class batsmen so it will be an interesting game to watch. It is too difficult to call a winner at this stage." New Zealand suffered back-to-back defeats in the last two ICC World Cup Finals but Hadlee is confident that they won’t head into the match under any sort of pressure. "We have a proud record in 50 over World Cups. Yes, those near misses were frustrating and disappointing but we were so close to winning in 2019 at Lord’s. I would go as far as to say there were no winners and losers on that day – it was just by a technicality that England won! ALSO READ: Cricket: 'The world stops a little bit': Tim Seifert recalls COVID-19 ordeal in India during IPL 2021 "The Test Championship is a one-off game. Yes, it is a final, but I don’t think either team will be too fazed about it. It is a neutral ground with no home team advantage," he said. "The Test Championship is a one-off game. Yes, it is a final, but I don’t think either team will be too fazed about it. It is a neutral ground with no home team advantage. "It is something to look forward to. Both teams deserve to be contesting the final because of their consistent playing performances over a set period of time."

Cricket: Who will win India vs New Zealand, World Test Championship Final? Richard Hadlee gives his take

The Team India squad for the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final, which will be played against New Zealand at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton, is likely to be picked on Friday (May 7). <o:p></o:p>

While not many changes are expected in the Indian Test squad, which played against New Zealand, there are talks over whether to leave Hardik Pandya out, due to him not being able to bowl full-tilt. The Chetan Sharma-led Indian selection committee is expected to pick a jumbo squad consisting of four openers, five middle-order batsmen, around nine pacers and three wicket-keepers, according to reports.<o:p></o:p>

However, the exact size of the Indian squad will depend on BCCI advisory on whether to select the squad for just the WTC final or for the five-Test series against England. <o:p></o:p>

The final of the World Test championship will be held from June 18 to 22 with a reserve day.

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Four openers – Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, KL Rahul and Mayank Agarwal are set to retain their spots with a chance of Prithvi Shaw missing out on the call.<o:p></o:p>

The selectors could pick young pacer Prasidh Krishna, who impressed in the white-ball leg against England and in the IPL. The likes of Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Shardul Thakur, Umesh Yadav are likely to retain their places. Mohammed Shami and Ravindra Jadeja are also set to make a comeback along with Hanuma Vihari.

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Ravichandran Ashwin and Axar Patel are a surety to retain their spots in the Test team just like Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane and Virat Kohli. Washington Sundar is also likely to get the nod for the WTC final squad.<o:p></o:p>

The Team India squad for the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final, which will be played against New Zealand at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton, is likely to be picked on Friday (May 7).

The Team India squad for the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final, which will be played against New Zealand at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton, is likely to be picked on Friday (May 7). While not many changes are expected in the Indian Test squad, which played against New Zealand, there are talks over whether to leave Hardik Pandya out, due to him not being able to bowl full-tilt. The Chetan Sharma-led Indian selection committee is expected to pick a jumbo squad consisting of four openers, five middle-order batsmen, around nine pacers and three wicket-keepers, according to reports. However, the exact size of the Indian squad will depend on BCCI advisory on whether to select the squad for just the WTC final or for the five-Test series against England. The final of the World Test championship will be held from June 18 to 22 with a reserve day. ALSO READ: 'No breach of bubble': BCCI chief Ganguly talks about Covid cases in IPL 2021 Four openers – Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, KL Rahul and Mayank Agarwal are set to retain their spots with a chance of Prithvi Shaw missing out on the call. The selectors could pick young pacer Prasidh Krishna, who impressed in the white-ball leg against England and in the IPL. The likes of Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Shardul Thakur, Umesh Yadav are likely to retain their places. Mohammed Shami and Ravindra Jadeja are also set to make a comeback along with Hanuma Vihari. ALSO READ: English County clubs offer to host remainder of IPL 2021 in September Ravichandran Ashwin and Axar Patel are a surety to retain their spots in the Test team just like Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane and Virat Kohli. Washington Sundar is also likely to get the nod for the WTC final squad.

India Test squad for WTC final to be selected soon, selectors likely to mull over Hardik, Shaw

The final of the ICC World Test Championship between India and New Zealand will be staged in a bio-secure bubble at the Hampshire Bowl in Southampton. The decision, taken by the ICC Board, follows discussions with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) where a range of options were considered to ensure the inaugural final could be staged safely with the potential impact of COVID-19 minimised for all involved.

In selecting The Hampshire Bowl, the ICC drew on ECB’s experience of delivering a full summer of bio-safe international cricket in 2020. The venue provides world-class playing and training facilities, giving both teams the best possible environment in which to prepare. Whilst the on-site accommodation will significantly reduce the risk around COVID-19 transmission and better protect the health and safety of everyone involved in delivering the final.

Should the UK government’s phased easing of COVID-19 lockdown measures proceed as planned, it is anticipated that a limited number of fans will be allowed into the Hampshire Bowl to watch the final.&nbsp;

New Zealand were the first team to make the ICC World Test Championship final and they were joined by India following their series win over England which concluded on Saturday.

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Geoff Allardice, ICC General Manager, Cricket said: “The ICC World Test Championship final is the pinnacle event in the Test calendar and is intended to be a week-long celebration of the oldest form of the game. A format that is rooted in tradition and features the best that the game has to offer. I would also like to congratulate both India and New Zealand for becoming part of history by reaching the first final.&nbsp;

“We are confident that in selecting the Hampshire Bowl, we have given ourselves the best possible chance to successfully deliver the final whilst keeping everyone involved safe and healthy and giving fans the opportunity to watch the two best Test teams in the world go head-to-head for the right to call themselves the ICC World Test Champions. &nbsp;

“I would like to thank the ECB for their guidance and advice to enable us to make this decision, which gives us the best possible opportunity to deliver a safe and successful World Test Championship Final.”

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Tom Harrison, Chief Executive Officer, England and Wales Cricket Board said: “We are delighted that the ICC has chosen to host the inaugural World Test Championship Final at The Hampshire Bowl.

“As the world’s first fully bio-secure cricket venue, it has shown itself capable of delivering international matches to the highest of standards, even against the backdrop of a global pandemic. I am sure the finale of the ICC World Test Championship will be a wonderful occasion.”

Rod Bransgrove, Hampshire Cricket Chairman, said: “We are honoured and delighted that The Hampshire Bowl has been appointed as the host venue for the inaugural ICC World Test Championship Final. I should like to sincerely thank the ICC for this huge demonstration of confidence in our capabilities and the ECB for its significant support of the venue as host of what will be the biggest Test Match event ever staged.

“I am sure our immense pride at bringing this fixture to Hampshire will be shared by all our loyal staff, supporters and sponsors as well as our unwavering partners, Eastleigh Borough Council. We will do everything in our power to ensure that this inaugural ICC World Test Championship Final is a secure, entertaining and successful event for everyone.’’

The final of the ICC World Test Championship between India and New Zealand will be staged in a bio-secure bubble at the Hampshire Bowl in Southampton. The decision, taken by the ICC Board, follows discussions with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) where a range of options were considered to ensure the inaugural final could be staged safely with the potential impact of COVID-19 minimised for all involved.

The final of the ICC World Test Championship between India and New Zealand will be staged in a bio-secure bubble at the Hampshire Bowl in Southampton. The decision, taken by the ICC Board, follows discussions with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) where a range of options were considered to ensure the inaugural final could be staged safely with the potential impact of COVID-19 minimised for all involved. In selecting The Hampshire Bowl, the ICC drew on ECB’s experience of delivering a full summer of bio-safe international cricket in 2020. The venue provides world-class playing and training facilities, giving both teams the best possible environment in which to prepare. Whilst the on-site accommodation will significantly reduce the risk around COVID-19 transmission and better protect the health and safety of everyone involved in delivering the final. Should the UK government’s phased easing of COVID-19 lockdown measures proceed as planned, it is anticipated that a limited number of fans will be allowed into the Hampshire Bowl to watch the final. New Zealand were the first team to make the ICC World Test Championship final and they were joined by India following their series win over England which concluded on Saturday. ALSO READ: ICC CEO Manu Sawhney sent on ''leave'' after preliminary investigation shows misconduct Geoff Allardice, ICC General Manager, Cricket said: “The ICC World Test Championship final is the pinnacle event in the Test calendar and is intended to be a week-long celebration of the oldest form of the game. A format that is rooted in tradition and features the best that the game has to offer. I would also like to congratulate both India and New Zealand for becoming part of history by reaching the first final. “We are confident that in selecting the Hampshire Bowl, we have given ourselves the best possible chance to successfully deliver the final whilst keeping everyone involved safe and healthy and giving fans the opportunity to watch the two best Test teams in the world go head-to-head for the right to call themselves the ICC World Test Champions. “I would like to thank the ECB for their guidance and advice to enable us to make this decision, which gives us the best possible opportunity to deliver a safe and successful World Test Championship Final.” ALSO READ: IPL 2021 venues could host ICC T20 World Cup matches: Report Tom Harrison, Chief Executive Officer, England and Wales Cricket Board said: “We are delighted that the ICC has chosen to host the inaugural World Test Championship Final at The Hampshire Bowl. “As the world’s first fully bio-secure cricket venue, it has shown itself capable of delivering international matches to the highest of standards, even against the backdrop of a global pandemic. I am sure the finale of the ICC World Test Championship will be a wonderful occasion.” Rod Bransgrove, Hampshire Cricket Chairman, said: “We are honoured and delighted that The Hampshire Bowl has been appointed as the host venue for the inaugural ICC World Test Championship Final. I should like to sincerely thank the ICC for this huge demonstration of confidence in our capabilities and the ECB for its significant support of the venue as host of what will be the biggest Test Match event ever staged. “I am sure our immense pride at bringing this fixture to Hampshire will be shared by all our loyal staff, supporters and sponsors as well as our unwavering partners, Eastleigh Borough Council. We will do everything in our power to ensure that this inaugural ICC World Test Championship Final is a secure, entertaining and successful event for everyone.’’

World Test Championship final to be held at Hampshire Bowl in Southampton: ICC

Australia&nbsp;head coach Justin Langer has expressed his disappointment over the slow-over rate against India in the Boxing Day Test, which ultimately cost the Aussies a spot in the final of the ICC World Test Championship.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Four points were docked from Australia's points tally in the WTC after Tim Paine's side were two overs short of the required rate of 15 overs per hour.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The four-point deduction meant that Australia ended up third in the ICC World Test Championship table with 69.2 percentage points while India finished first with 72 percentage points and New Zealand finishing second with 70 percentage points.&nbsp;

Langer said that Australia's team manager Gavin Dovey was on leave and hence, the team was unaware of the slow-over rate in the match.&nbsp;

"This might be the silliest thing I've ever said, but our manager Gavin Dovey ... he'd been away, he'd gone home for Christmas to be with his family," Langer told SEN.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"It wasn't until after the game that we&nbsp;realised&nbsp;our over rate was down. Now, that's really slack on our behalf.&nbsp;

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"I remember we were in the team room afterwards and I spoke to&nbsp;Painey&nbsp;(skipper Tim Paine) and Dene Hills, our analyst, about it. I was a bit grumpy about it and I thought 'imagine if this cost us the World Test Championship.&nbsp;

"And I mentioned it to the players afterwards that two overs down could cost us the World Test Championship. And so, we have to get better at that and make sure it doesn't happen in Sydney and Brisbane.&nbsp;

"It was relevant at the time and it certainly became incredibly significant over the weekend."&nbsp;

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Langer is of the view that Australia should be more accountable and take responsibility for the crucial slow-over rate breach at the MCG as it was something that was within their control.&nbsp;

"How often do you get docked points in Test cricket these days? Rarely," he said.&nbsp;

"And we had that in our control, that's an attitudinal thing.&nbsp;

"At the time, we probably thought it's not that big a deal the players get fined but that cost us the World Test Championship (Final) after what had been two really good years for Australian cricket where we were ranked No.1 again.&nbsp;

"It's very disappointing, but the lesson is the things that we can control, we have to control. And we can't relax for a second in Test cricket," Langer added.&nbsp;

The ICC rules state that teams are docked two points and fined 20 per cent of their match fee for every over they stay behind the rate. Australia&nbsp;were&nbsp;docked four points and fined 40 per cent of their match fee as they were behind by two overs.&nbsp;

Australia head coach Justin Langer has expressed his disappointment over the slow-over rate against India in the Boxing Day Test, which ultimately cost the Aussies a spot in the final of the ICC World Test Championship.

Australia head coach Justin Langer has expressed his disappointment over the slow-over rate against India in the Boxing Day Test, which ultimately cost the Aussies a spot in the final of the ICC World Test Championship. Four points were docked from Australia's points tally in the WTC after Tim Paine's side were two overs short of the required rate of 15 overs per hour. The four-point deduction meant that Australia ended up third in the ICC World Test Championship table with 69.2 percentage points while India finished first with 72 percentage points and New Zealand finishing second with 70 percentage points. Langer said that Australia's team manager Gavin Dovey was on leave and hence, the team was unaware of the slow-over rate in the match. "This might be the silliest thing I've ever said, but our manager Gavin Dovey ... he'd been away, he'd gone home for Christmas to be with his family," Langer told SEN. "It wasn't until after the game that we realised our over rate was down. Now, that's really slack on our behalf. ALSO READ: 'I turned to Rahul Dravid and asked...' Sam Billings recalls watching Rishabh Pant for first time "I remember we were in the team room afterwards and I spoke to Painey (skipper Tim Paine) and Dene Hills, our analyst, about it. I was a bit grumpy about it and I thought 'imagine if this cost us the World Test Championship. "And I mentioned it to the players afterwards that two overs down could cost us the World Test Championship. And so, we have to get better at that and make sure it doesn't happen in Sydney and Brisbane. "It was relevant at the time and it certainly became incredibly significant over the weekend." ALSO READ: IPL 2021 venues could host ICC T20 World Cup matches: Report Langer is of the view that Australia should be more accountable and take responsibility for the crucial slow-over rate breach at the MCG as it was something that was within their control. "How often do you get docked points in Test cricket these days? Rarely," he said. "And we had that in our control, that's an attitudinal thing. "At the time, we probably thought it's not that big a deal the players get fined but that cost us the World Test Championship (Final) after what had been two really good years for Australian cricket where we were ranked No.1 again. "It's very disappointing, but the lesson is the things that we can control, we have to control. And we can't relax for a second in Test cricket," Langer added. The ICC rules state that teams are docked two points and fined 20 per cent of their match fee for every over they stay behind the rate. Australia were docked four points and fined 40 per cent of their match fee as they were behind by two overs.

'Very disappointing': Justin Langer rues missing WTC final berth due to major error against India

The BCCI president on Monday confirmed that the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final between India and New Zealand will be hosted by the Ageas Bowl in Southampton. The summit clash is scheduled to be held between June 18-22.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"I'm looking forward to attending the World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand in Southampton," Ganguly said on India Today.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Yeah, it is in Southampton. It was decided long time ago. Due to COVID and they [in Southampton] have the hotel absolutely close. When England resumed play after COVID, they had a lot of matches in Southampton due to the same reason."&nbsp;

The Ageas Bowl in Southampton boasts a five-star hotel attached to the stadium and provides plenty of logistical and operational convenience in times of bio-secure bubbles. Southampton had hosted matches between England and West Indies, and Pakistan.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{1d9237ff-db60-45cd-a64d-d45b7e8af72b}{99}" paraid="1731037771" >How do India and New Zealand fare at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton: A look at key stats</h2>

So how do India and New Zealand fare at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton? With the venue of the ICC World Test Championship all but officially confirmed, let us take a look at some of the key stats from both India and New Zealand at the&nbsp;Ageas&nbsp;Bowl.&nbsp;

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{c3a5f360-ebf4-450f-b4a0-7a53adf28872}{144}" paraid="91912517" >Only 6 Tests hosted by Ageas Bowl</h2>

The Ageas Bowl has hosted just six Test matches thus far with India playing two of them. However, India don't have a great record at the venue with MS-Dhoni led India suffering a 266-run hammering back in 2014. The match was dominated by the likes of Gary Ballance and Ian Bell who registered centuries. whereas James Anderson ended with seven wickets in the match including a five-for.&nbsp;

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{1d9237ff-db60-45cd-a64d-d45b7e8af72b}{153}" paraid="1862149208" >Virat Kohli leads run-scoring charts for India at the Ageas Bowl</h2>

In 2018, when Virat Kohli-led India played in Southampton, the visitors suffered a 60-run defeat. While India started the match on the front foot, even taking a first-innings lead, poor performance with the bat in the second innings helped England win the Test match. Cheteshwar Pujara had registered a gritty century in the first innings but no one apart from Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane managed to tackle the English bowlers in the second innings. Moeen Ali was the standout bowler for England as he ended up with a total of nine wickets in the match.&nbsp;

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Talking about individual performances,&nbsp;the matches at Ageas Bowl have been dominated by both batsmen and bowlers. While pacers enjoy early assistance, spinners have come into play in the third and fourth innings of the matches played in Southampton.&nbsp;

England's Zak Crawley has scored the most&nbsp;number of runs at the Ageas Bowl with 406 runs (in 4 innings) under his belt. For India, Virat Kohli has registered&nbsp;most&nbsp;number of runs at the venue with 171 runs in 4 innings at an average of 42.75. Ajinkya Rahane is next on the list with 168 runs in 4 innings at an average of 56 followed by Cheteshwar Pujara with 163 runs at an average of 54.33.&nbsp;

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{835b1c6d-31dd-4c84-8710-1f8f13dfa93c}{83}" paraid="730857699" >Mohammed Shami leads wicket-taking charts for India at the Ageas Bowl</h2>

In terms of bowling performances, James Anderson is the leading wicket-taker at the&nbsp;venue&nbsp;with 26 scalps in just six matches. For India, Mohammed Shami leads the list with 7 wickets in 2 matches followed by Ravindra Jadeja (5), Ishant Sharma (4), Jasprit&nbsp;Bumrah&nbsp;(4) and Bhuvneshwar Kumar (4).&nbsp;

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<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{835b1c6d-31dd-4c84-8710-1f8f13dfa93c}{95}" paraid="1047667743" >New Zealand yet to play a Test in Southampton</h2>

New Zealand haven't played at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton when it comes to the longest format of the game but the Black Caps have been in action in limited-overs cricket.&nbsp;

In ODIs, New Zealand have played three matches at the venue with two wins and a no-result. In 2013, New Zealand defeated England by 86 runs and three wickets respectively to bag their twin wins in Southampton.&nbsp;

The ICC World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton on June 18-22 promises to be a cracker of a contest.&nbsp;

The BCCI president on Monday confirmed that the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final between India and New Zealand will be hosted by the Ageas Bowl in Southampton.

The BCCI president on Monday confirmed that the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final between India and New Zealand will be hosted by the Ageas Bowl in Southampton. The summit clash is scheduled to be held between June 18-22. "I'm looking forward to attending the World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand in Southampton," Ganguly said on India Today. "Yeah, it is in Southampton. It was decided long time ago. Due to COVID and they [in Southampton] have the hotel absolutely close. When England resumed play after COVID, they had a lot of matches in Southampton due to the same reason." The Ageas Bowl in Southampton boasts a five-star hotel attached to the stadium and provides plenty of logistical and operational convenience in times of bio-secure bubbles. Southampton had hosted matches between England and West Indies, and Pakistan. How do India and New Zealand fare at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton: A look at key stats So how do India and New Zealand fare at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton? With the venue of the ICC World Test Championship all but officially confirmed, let us take a look at some of the key stats from both India and New Zealand at the Ageas Bowl. Only 6 Tests hosted by Ageas Bowl The Ageas Bowl has hosted just six Test matches thus far with India playing two of them. However, India don't have a great record at the venue with MS-Dhoni led India suffering a 266-run hammering back in 2014. The match was dominated by the likes of Gary Ballance and Ian Bell who registered centuries. whereas James Anderson ended with seven wickets in the match including a five-for. Virat Kohli leads run-scoring charts for India at the Ageas Bowl In 2018, when Virat Kohli-led India played in Southampton, the visitors suffered a 60-run defeat. While India started the match on the front foot, even taking a first-innings lead, poor performance with the bat in the second innings helped England win the Test match. Cheteshwar Pujara had registered a gritty century in the first innings but no one apart from Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane managed to tackle the English bowlers in the second innings. Moeen Ali was the standout bowler for England as he ended up with a total of nine wickets in the match. ALSO READ: IND vs NZ: Southampton to host ICC World Test Championship final, confirms Sourav Ganguly Talking about individual performances, the matches at Ageas Bowl have been dominated by both batsmen and bowlers. While pacers enjoy early assistance, spinners have come into play in the third and fourth innings of the matches played in Southampton. England's Zak Crawley has scored the most number of runs at the Ageas Bowl with 406 runs (in 4 innings) under his belt. For India, Virat Kohli has registered most number of runs at the venue with 171 runs in 4 innings at an average of 42.75. Ajinkya Rahane is next on the list with 168 runs in 4 innings at an average of 56 followed by Cheteshwar Pujara with 163 runs at an average of 54.33. Mohammed Shami leads wicket-taking charts for India at the Ageas Bowl In terms of bowling performances, James Anderson is the leading wicket-taker at the venue with 26 scalps in just six matches. For India, Mohammed Shami leads the list with 7 wickets in 2 matches followed by Ravindra Jadeja (5), Ishant Sharma (4), Jasprit Bumrah (4) and Bhuvneshwar Kumar (4). ALSO READ: BCCI likely to send second-string India squad for Asia Cup 2021: Report New Zealand yet to play a Test in Southampton New Zealand haven't played at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton when it comes to the longest format of the game but the Black Caps have been in action in limited-overs cricket. In ODIs, New Zealand have played three matches at the venue with two wins and a no-result. In 2013, New Zealand defeated England by 86 runs and three wickets respectively to bag their twin wins in Southampton. The ICC World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton on June 18-22 promises to be a cracker of a contest.

WTC Final: How do India and New Zealand fare at Ageas Bowl in Southampton? A look at key stats

The ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final between India and New Zealand is all set to be hosted by the Ageas Bowl in Southampton from June 18-22, confirmed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly.&nbsp;

There were reports that the final of the World Test Championship was shifted from the iconic Lord's as originally planned with Ganguly now revealing Southampton will be hosting the inaugural final of WTC between India and New Zealand. However, there has been no confirmation in regards to the venue by the ICC.&nbsp;

"I'm looking forward to attending the World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand in Southampton," Ganguly said on India Today.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Yeah, it is in Southampton. It was decided a long time ago. Due to COVID and they [in Southampton] have the hotel absolutely close. When England resumed play after COVID, they had a lot of matches in Southampton due to the same reason."&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-likely-to-send-second-string-india-squad-for-asia-cup-2021-report-368887" hreflang="en">BCCI likely to send second-string India squad for Asia Cup 2021: Report</a>

India and New Zealand qualified for the summit clash after coming first and second in the WTC standings respectively. While India ended with the maximum percentage points, New Zealand came second to set-up the mouth-watering clash.&nbsp;The Ageas Bowl in Southampton boasts a five-star hotel attached to the stadium and provides plenty of logistical and operational convenience in times of bio-secure bubbles. Southampton had hosted matches between England and West Indies, and Pakistan.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ganguly lauded the players for their mental strength given they had to spend around six months in bio-secure bubbles starting from the IPL 2020. The former Indian skipper hoped that India defeat New Zealand in the final while congratulating Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane and everyone involved in the squad.&nbsp;

Ganguly was asked about whether the World Test Championship comes together with the 50-over World Cup to which the BCCI president said:&nbsp;“Every trophy has its own value. The 50-over World Cup is an amazing spectacle. It (WTC) was a bit complicated this time because of the pandemic. We will see when every team has played an equal number of games.”&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/on-international-womens-day-icc-announces-expansion-of-womens-game-368867" hreflang="en">On International Women's Day, ICC announces expansion of women's game</a>

“Massive achievements given what the players have gone through. Right from the IPL in September to early March and they are not finished yet. A good 6 months in bio-bubbles and what they have achieved is fantastic,” Ganguly said.&nbsp;

“Looking forward to the WTC final and I hope we get past New Zealand. Congratulate Rahane, Kohli, everyone involved. The way Pant won India the Brisbane game was excellent,” he added.&nbsp;

The ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final between India and New Zealand is all set to be hosted by the Ageas Bowl in Southampton from June 18-22, confirmed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly.

The ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final between India and New Zealand is all set to be hosted by the Ageas Bowl in Southampton from June 18-22, confirmed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly. There were reports that the final of the World Test Championship was shifted from the iconic Lord's as originally planned with Ganguly now revealing Southampton will be hosting the inaugural final of WTC between India and New Zealand. However, there has been no confirmation in regards to the venue by the ICC. "I'm looking forward to attending the World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand in Southampton," Ganguly said on India Today. "Yeah, it is in Southampton. It was decided a long time ago. Due to COVID and they [in Southampton] have the hotel absolutely close. When England resumed play after COVID, they had a lot of matches in Southampton due to the same reason." ALSO READ: BCCI likely to send second-string India squad for Asia Cup 2021: Report India and New Zealand qualified for the summit clash after coming first and second in the WTC standings respectively. While India ended with the maximum percentage points, New Zealand came second to set-up the mouth-watering clash. The Ageas Bowl in Southampton boasts a five-star hotel attached to the stadium and provides plenty of logistical and operational convenience in times of bio-secure bubbles. Southampton had hosted matches between England and West Indies, and Pakistan. Ganguly lauded the players for their mental strength given they had to spend around six months in bio-secure bubbles starting from the IPL 2020. The former Indian skipper hoped that India defeat New Zealand in the final while congratulating Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane and everyone involved in the squad. Ganguly was asked about whether the World Test Championship comes together with the 50-over World Cup to which the BCCI president said: “Every trophy has its own value. The 50-over World Cup is an amazing spectacle. It (WTC) was a bit complicated this time because of the pandemic. We will see when every team has played an equal number of games.” ALSO READ: On International Women's Day, ICC announces expansion of women's game “Massive achievements given what the players have gone through. Right from the IPL in September to early March and they are not finished yet. A good 6 months in bio-bubbles and what they have achieved is fantastic,” Ganguly said. “Looking forward to the WTC final and I hope we get past New Zealand. Congratulate Rahane, Kohli, everyone involved. The way Pant won India the Brisbane game was excellent,” he added.

IND vs NZ: Southampton to host ICC World Test Championship final, confirms Sourav Ganguly

With the finalists of the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship&nbsp;(WTC)&nbsp;decided after India's thumping 3-1 series win over England, the&nbsp;Virat Kohli-led outfit will be facing New Zealand in the summit clash, scheduled to be played from June 18 to 22.&nbsp;&nbsp;

While the International Cricket Council (ICC) on Saturday said that India and New Zealand will be locking horns in the final of the ICC World Test Championship, the venue of the match is yet to be decided. The Lord's was slated to host the WTC final but the iconic ground is reportedly out of the race with Ageas Bowl in Southampton,&nbsp;Edgbaston&nbsp;in Birmingham and&nbsp;Old Trafford in Manchester three&nbsp;grounds battling to host the grand finale, a report in&nbsp;Cricbuzz&nbsp;said that the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has checked the readiness of the Ageas Bowl in Southampton with the stadium&nbsp;front-runner to host the final of ICC World Test Championship.&nbsp;

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The <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WTC21?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WTC21</a> finalists 🙌 <a href="https://t.co/OWBBifgbvx">pic.twitter.com/OWBBifgbvx</a>
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The Ageas Bowl in Southampton boasts a five-star hotel attached to the stadium and provides plenty of logistical and operational convenience in times of bio-secure bubbles. Southampton had hosted matches between England and West Indies, and Pakistan.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

"I can't give much information apart from the fact that there has been discussion about it," confirmed Southampton cricket boss Rod&nbsp;Bransgrove&nbsp;to&nbsp;Cricbuzz&nbsp;about an approach to stage the final at the Ageas Bowl. "I am the chairman of Southampton and I can say we have been asked to stage it and also inquired if Southampton is available. I don't know if anything has been finally decided as yet,"&nbsp;Bransgrove said.&nbsp;

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India 🤜🤛 New Zealand 
 
The inaugural ICC World Test Championship finalists! 
 
The wait will be unbearable. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WTC21?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WTC21</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a> <a href="https://t.co/X3KcNrUTJ1">pic.twitter.com/X3KcNrUTJ1</a>
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&nbsp;

However, the spokesman for the Marylebone Cricket Club, which runs the Lord's ground, remained non-committal.&nbsp;

"The MCC has been working with the ICC and the ECB in relation to planning for the World Test Championship Final. As yet, no definitive decision has been taken in relation to the location of the final. This will be announced by the ICC in due course," the spokesman for the MCC told&nbsp;Cricbuzz.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The ICC is expected to announce the venue soon and the world body is also expected to reveal playing conditions for the inaugural final of WTC along with a reserve day.&nbsp;

With the finalists of the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship (WTC) decided after India's thumping 3-1 series win over England, the Virat Kohli-led outfit will be facing New Zealand in the summit clash, scheduled to be played from June 18 to 22.

With the finalists of the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship (WTC) decided after India's thumping 3-1 series win over England, the Virat Kohli-led outfit will be facing New Zealand in the summit clash, scheduled to be played from June 18 to 22. While the International Cricket Council (ICC) on Saturday said that India and New Zealand will be locking horns in the final of the ICC World Test Championship, the venue of the match is yet to be decided. The Lord's was slated to host the WTC final but the iconic ground is reportedly out of the race with Ageas Bowl in Southampton, Edgbaston in Birmingham and Old Trafford in Manchester three grounds battling to host the grand finale, a report in Cricbuzz said that the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has checked the readiness of the Ageas Bowl in Southampton with the stadium front-runner to host the final of ICC World Test Championship. The #WTC21 finalists 🙌 pic.twitter.com/OWBBifgbvx — ICC (@ICC) March 6, 2021 × The Ageas Bowl in Southampton boasts a five-star hotel attached to the stadium and provides plenty of logistical and operational convenience in times of bio-secure bubbles. Southampton had hosted matches between England and West Indies, and Pakistan. "I can't give much information apart from the fact that there has been discussion about it," confirmed Southampton cricket boss Rod Bransgrove to Cricbuzz about an approach to stage the final at the Ageas Bowl. "I am the chairman of Southampton and I can say we have been asked to stage it and also inquired if Southampton is available. I don't know if anything has been finally decided as yet," Bransgrove said. India 🤜🤛 New Zealand The inaugural ICC World Test Championship finalists! The wait will be unbearable. #WTC21 | #INDvENG pic.twitter.com/X3KcNrUTJ1 — ICC (@ICC) March 6, 2021 × However, the spokesman for the Marylebone Cricket Club, which runs the Lord's ground, remained non-committal. "The MCC has been working with the ICC and the ECB in relation to planning for the World Test Championship Final. As yet, no definitive decision has been taken in relation to the location of the final. This will be announced by the ICC in due course," the spokesman for the MCC told Cricbuzz. The ICC is expected to announce the venue soon and the world body is also expected to reveal playing conditions for the inaugural final of WTC along with a reserve day.

India vs New Zealand: Southampton leads race to host ICC World Test Championship final

Indian head coach Ravi Shastri on Sunday said that his team had to dig deep in a bid to qualify for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final due to the rules getting changed between into the tournament due to the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Owing to the COVID-19 disruption, the qualification scenario in ICC WTC was changed midway. The change stated that teams with better percentage points in the WTC points table will qualify and not the teams with the most&nbsp;number of points. India finished atop the WTC standings with 72.2 percentage points followed by New Zealand who have 70 percentage points as the two&nbsp;teams&nbsp;set-up a mouthwatering clash in the final of WTC.&nbsp;

"I am not worried about the next WTC&nbsp;cycle,&nbsp;I am thinking of the first cycle. If you ask me about the problems in the first cycle, please do not shift the goalpost. I am sitting at home during Covid-19, right in the month of October-November. You have got more points than any other team in the world. 360 at that time, suddenly, a week later without playing any cricket, there is a rule that comes stating that the points would be decided on the percentage system and go from number one to three. Fine, that's because of countries not wanting to travel, all acceptable and fine,” said Shastri during a virtual press conference on Sunday.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/its-banter-ravi-shastri-reacts-to-viral-memes-around-him-on-social-media-368581" hreflang="en">It's banter!: Ravi Shastri reacts to viral memes around him on social media</a>

"I want to understand the logic behind this, what is the way forward for me? I have to go to Australia, sitting comfortably at the top spot, leading by 60-70 points. They say you have to go to&nbsp;Australia,&nbsp;you have to beat Australia. How many teams in the last ten years can say with guarantee that we will beat Australia? The reason I am saying this, you are sitting at the top of the table, percentage system, you have to go to Australia and beat Australia. If you do not beat Australia, you come back home and beat England 4-0, you get close to 500 points and you still do not qualify. We have had to dig&nbsp;deep,&nbsp;we have had to go down every hole that is needed to find water. Do not ask me about the next cycle, first, let's finish this cycle," he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Plenty of youngsters got their hands on the Indian Test cap with the likes of Washington Sundar, T Natarajan,&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;Patel bagging their debuts in the longest format of the game, starting from the series against&nbsp;Australia.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-schedule-announced-narendra-modi-stadium-to-host-playoffs-and-final-check-full-fixtures-368587" hreflang="en">IPL 2021 schedule announced: Narendra Modi Stadium to host playoffs and final - check full fixtures</a>

Speaking about the big squads that were picked because of Covid-19 and quarantine protocols, Shastri said: "This is the most positive thing to come out of this bubble because of the bubble, you had to go with large squads. Because of the bubbles and quarantine rules, you had to go with 25-30 players. As a result, you had to dig deep and pick your best 30 players and as luck would have it, we had no choice to play every member. You found out who is good and who is not. It is a good headache to have and it is something that has worked well. If you said Natarajan would play a Test match, you would have said no way. Even Washington Sundar, you would have said no way. These are things you would not imagine but circumstances make it happen. I am glad the youngsters who got the opportunity cracked it open."&nbsp;

The final of ICC WTC is slated to be held on June 18-22 in England.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Indian head coach Ravi Shastri on Sunday said that his team had to dig deep in a bid to qualify for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final due to the rules getting changed between into the tournament due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Indian head coach Ravi Shastri on Sunday said that his team had to dig deep in a bid to qualify for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final due to the rules getting changed between into the tournament due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Owing to the COVID-19 disruption, the qualification scenario in ICC WTC was changed midway. The change stated that teams with better percentage points in the WTC points table will qualify and not the teams with the most number of points. India finished atop the WTC standings with 72.2 percentage points followed by New Zealand who have 70 percentage points as the two teams set-up a mouthwatering clash in the final of WTC. "I am not worried about the next WTC cycle, I am thinking of the first cycle. If you ask me about the problems in the first cycle, please do not shift the goalpost. I am sitting at home during Covid-19, right in the month of October-November. You have got more points than any other team in the world. 360 at that time, suddenly, a week later without playing any cricket, there is a rule that comes stating that the points would be decided on the percentage system and go from number one to three. Fine, that's because of countries not wanting to travel, all acceptable and fine,” said Shastri during a virtual press conference on Sunday. ALSO READ: It's banter!: Ravi Shastri reacts to viral memes around him on social media "I want to understand the logic behind this, what is the way forward for me? I have to go to Australia, sitting comfortably at the top spot, leading by 60-70 points. They say you have to go to Australia, you have to beat Australia. How many teams in the last ten years can say with guarantee that we will beat Australia? The reason I am saying this, you are sitting at the top of the table, percentage system, you have to go to Australia and beat Australia. If you do not beat Australia, you come back home and beat England 4-0, you get close to 500 points and you still do not qualify. We have had to dig deep, we have had to go down every hole that is needed to find water. Do not ask me about the next cycle, first, let's finish this cycle," he added. Plenty of youngsters got their hands on the Indian Test cap with the likes of Washington Sundar, T Natarajan, Axar Patel bagging their debuts in the longest format of the game, starting from the series against Australia. ALSO READ: IPL 2021 schedule announced: Narendra Modi Stadium to host playoffs and final - check full fixtures Speaking about the big squads that were picked because of Covid-19 and quarantine protocols, Shastri said: "This is the most positive thing to come out of this bubble because of the bubble, you had to go with large squads. Because of the bubbles and quarantine rules, you had to go with 25-30 players. As a result, you had to dig deep and pick your best 30 players and as luck would have it, we had no choice to play every member. You found out who is good and who is not. It is a good headache to have and it is something that has worked well. If you said Natarajan would play a Test match, you would have said no way. Even Washington Sundar, you would have said no way. These are things you would not imagine but circumstances make it happen. I am glad the youngsters who got the opportunity cracked it open." The final of ICC WTC is slated to be held on June 18-22 in England.

Had to dig deep to find water: Ravi Shastri on road to World Test Championship final

India and England are set to lock horns for the fourth and final Test at the world’s largest cricket stadium – Narendra Modi Stadium – in Ahmedabad from March 4.&nbsp;The series, thus far, has been centred around the talks on pitches more than the actual cricket happening on the ground.&nbsp;&nbsp;

While England started a series with a thumping 227-run win in Chennai, a victory that prompted some of the former England cricketers to jump the gun and predict a series win for England; India came back roaring into the series with wins in the second and third Test by 317 runs and 10 wickets respectively.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Heading into the series finale, India&nbsp;lead&nbsp;the series 2-1 and a draw or win would be enough for Virat Kohli and Co to seal a spot in the final of ICC World Test Championship, slated to be played from June 10-14 June in England.&nbsp;&nbsp;

India’s Test deputy Ajinkya Rahane on Tuesday suggested&nbsp;that the pitch for the fourth Test would be similar to what both the teams faced in the second and third&nbsp;Test. Even England spinner Jack Leach suggested that there is more talk about the pitch outside the dressing room than inside it while adding players are completely focusing on the match.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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Training ✅<a href="https://twitter.com/Paytm?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Paytm</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a> <a href="https://t.co/G7GCV1EA8U">pic.twitter.com/G7GCV1EA8U</a>
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"Wicket will be similar to the third Test match and also the second Test in Chennai. Spinning track," Rahane told reporters ahead of the Test starting Thursday.

"I don't really have too much to say about the pitch, I think we got outplayed in those conditions and for me I am always looking to learn and get better and see every challenge as a way of improving,"&nbsp;Leach&nbsp;told reporters.

"I think their spinners bowled really, really well and I don't think we should take anything away from them by saying bad things about the wicket."

The performances of the batsmen have been on the disappointing side with only Rohit Sharma being the standalone batsman who looked like a threat in challenging conditions. While Joe Root started the series on a splendid note with the bat on a flat deck in Chennai, he has been limited to celebrating five-fers&nbsp;with the ball.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> Boys working hard for the 4th Test<a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BCCI</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GCA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GCA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GujaratCricketAssociation?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GujaratCricketAssociation</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Testcricket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Testcricket</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cricket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cricket</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/practicesession?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#practicesession</a> <a href="https://t.co/tTtOSxVfzT">pic.twitter.com/tTtOSxVfzT</a>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/poor-pitch-in-ahmedabad-or-abysmal-batting-performance-366843" hreflang="en">Poor pitch in Ahmedabad or abysmal batting performance?</a>

The Narendra Modi Stadium is set to host the series finale after hosting its first-ever Test match since being rebuilt. The largest cricket stadium in the world witnessed the pink-ball Test that lasted just 842 deliveries – the shortest Test match since 1935.&nbsp;While fans and broadcasters have every right to be disappointed about watching a match that last five sessions, the pink-ball Test exposed the flawed technique of England batters.&nbsp;&nbsp;

When it comes to team selection, Team India, in the absence of Jasprit&nbsp;Bumrah, is likely to bring Umesh Yadav into the playing XI with Kuldeep Yadav expected to get a green signal ahead of Washington Sundar. For England, Jack Leach is expected to replace one of the pacers and either of Mark Wood or Olly Stone could be in the fray to bring some fresh blood for the visitors.&nbsp;&nbsp;

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-signed-bats-to-historic-photos-inside-the-hall-of-fame-zone-narendra-modi-stadium-365726" hreflang="en">From signed bats to historic photos: Inside the 'Hall of Fame' zone Narendra Modi Stadium</a>

With another rank-turner expected in Ahmedabad, cricket lovers can expect spinners to continue their domination in the series.&nbsp;&nbsp;

India and England are set to lock horns for the fourth and final Test at the world’s largest cricket stadium – Narendra Modi Stadium – in Ahmedabad from March 4.

India and England are set to lock horns for the fourth and final Test at the world’s largest cricket stadium – Narendra Modi Stadium – in Ahmedabad from March 4. The series, thus far, has been centred around the talks on pitches more than the actual cricket happening on the ground. While England started a series with a thumping 227-run win in Chennai, a victory that prompted some of the former England cricketers to jump the gun and predict a series win for England; India came back roaring into the series with wins in the second and third Test by 317 runs and 10 wickets respectively. Heading into the series finale, India lead the series 2-1 and a draw or win would be enough for Virat Kohli and Co to seal a spot in the final of ICC World Test Championship, slated to be played from June 10-14 June in England. India’s Test deputy Ajinkya Rahane on Tuesday suggested that the pitch for the fourth Test would be similar to what both the teams faced in the second and third Test. Even England spinner Jack Leach suggested that there is more talk about the pitch outside the dressing room than inside it while adding players are completely focusing on the match. Training ✅@Paytm #INDvENG pic.twitter.com/G7GCV1EA8U — BCCI (@BCCI) March 1, 2021 × ALSO READ: 4th Test: India pushing conditions to extremities, ball will turn from ball one - Ben Foakes "Wicket will be similar to the third Test match and also the second Test in Chennai. Spinning track," Rahane told reporters ahead of the Test starting Thursday. "I don't really have too much to say about the pitch, I think we got outplayed in those conditions and for me I am always looking to learn and get better and see every challenge as a way of improving," Leach told reporters. "I think their spinners bowled really, really well and I don't think we should take anything away from them by saying bad things about the wicket." The performances of the batsmen have been on the disappointing side with only Rohit Sharma being the standalone batsman who looked like a threat in challenging conditions. While Joe Root started the series on a splendid note with the bat on a flat deck in Chennai, he has been limited to celebrating five-fers with the ball. #TeamIndia Boys working hard for the 4th Test@BCCI#GCA #GujaratCricketAssociation #INDvENG #Testcricket #Cricket #practicesession pic.twitter.com/tTtOSxVfzT — Gujarat Cricket Association (Official) (@GCAMotera) March 2, 2021 × ALSO READ: Poor pitch in Ahmedabad or abysmal batting performance? The Narendra Modi Stadium is set to host the series finale after hosting its first-ever Test match since being rebuilt. The largest cricket stadium in the world witnessed the pink-ball Test that lasted just 842 deliveries – the shortest Test match since 1935. While fans and broadcasters have every right to be disappointed about watching a match that last five sessions, the pink-ball Test exposed the flawed technique of England batters. When it comes to team selection, Team India, in the absence of Jasprit Bumrah, is likely to bring Umesh Yadav into the playing XI with Kuldeep Yadav expected to get a green signal ahead of Washington Sundar. For England, Jack Leach is expected to replace one of the pacers and either of Mark Wood or Olly Stone could be in the fray to bring some fresh blood for the visitors. IN PICS | From signed bats to historic photos: Inside the 'Hall of Fame' zone Narendra Modi Stadium With another rank-turner expected in Ahmedabad, cricket lovers can expect spinners to continue their domination in the series.

4th Test Preview: India-England gear up for Ahmedabad showdown with WTC final on line

The postponement of the Test series between South Africa and Australia means New Zealand have become the first team to qualify for the inaugural ICC World Test Championship final to be held in England from June 18 to 22, with June 23 booked as the reserve day.&nbsp;&nbsp;

New Zealand are currently ranked second on the ICC WTC table with a points percentage of 70 per cent, which has secured them a place in the final. They will be joined by either India, England, or Australia with the second spot being determined by the outcome of the India v England four-match Test series due to start on Friday.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-world-test-championship-final-qualification-scenario-for-each-team-360861" hreflang="en">ICC World Test Championship final: Qualification scenario for each team</a>

To book their place, India will have to win the series against England by 2-1, 2-0, 3-1, 3-0 or 4-0, margin. For England to qualify and join New Zealand, they will have to win the series against India by 3-1, 3-0 or 4-0 margin. Australia can still qualify for the much-anticipated ICC WTC final if the series between India and England ends up as a drawn series, or if India win the series 1-0 or England win it by 1-0, 2-1 or a 2-1 margin.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, Cricket Australia announced that their tour of South Africa has been postponed amid fears of COVID-19. The postponement also cuts down chances of Australia qualifying to the final of ICC World Test Championship.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-vs-south-africa-test-series-postponed-over-covid-19-threat-360853" hreflang="en">Australia vs South Africa Test series postponed over COVID-19 threat</a>

The likes of Pakistan, South Africa among other Test playing nations barring India, England and Australia are also mathematically out of contention of the ICC WTC final.

The postponement of the Test series between South Africa and Australia means New Zealand have become the first team to qualify for the inaugural ICC World Test Championship final to be held in England from June 18 to 22, with June 23 booked as the reserve day.

The postponement of the Test series between South Africa and Australia means New Zealand have become the first team to qualify for the inaugural ICC World Test Championship final to be held in England from June 18 to 22, with June 23 booked as the reserve day. New Zealand are currently ranked second on the ICC WTC table with a points percentage of 70 per cent, which has secured them a place in the final. They will be joined by either India, England, or Australia with the second spot being determined by the outcome of the India v England four-match Test series due to start on Friday. ALSO READ: ICC World Test Championship final: Qualification scenario for each team To book their place, India will have to win the series against England by 2-1, 2-0, 3-1, 3-0 or 4-0, margin. For England to qualify and join New Zealand, they will have to win the series against India by 3-1, 3-0 or 4-0 margin. Australia can still qualify for the much-anticipated ICC WTC final if the series between India and England ends up as a drawn series, or if India win the series 1-0 or England win it by 1-0, 2-1 or a 2-1 margin. On Tuesday, Cricket Australia announced that their tour of South Africa has been postponed amid fears of COVID-19. The postponement also cuts down chances of Australia qualifying to the final of ICC World Test Championship. ALSO READ: Australia vs South Africa Test series postponed over COVID-19 threat The likes of Pakistan, South Africa among other Test playing nations barring India, England and Australia are also mathematically out of contention of the ICC WTC final.

New Zealand first team to qualify for ICC World Test Championship final

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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With a 2-0 series sweep over Sri Lanka, England are now only 0.5% behind Australia in the ICC World Test Championship standings 👀<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WTC21?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WTC21</a> <a href="https://t.co/ZoliydObpd">pic.twitter.com/ZoliydObpd</a>
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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.