Indian cricket team captain Rohit Sharma responded to Virat Kohli's critics amid his ongoing lean patch for the Men in Blue. Kohli's struggles with the willow continued in the third and final T20I against England in Nottingham as he was once again sent packing cheaply on just 11 runs in India's 17-run defeat against the hosts. Rohit was asked about Kohli's concerning form post the team's loss against England on Sunday.

Kohli, who came out to bat at his usual number 3 spot in the 216-run chase, looked in fine touch as he slammed a four and a six off David Willey before getting caught on the next delivery. Kohli was caught by Jason Roy trying to get another boundary in the third over from Willey.

Kohli has been enduring a rough patch with the bat in international cricket for quite some time now and has not scored a century for India since Noveber 2019. His recent failures have also led to former cricketers and experts questioning his spot in India's T20I team ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia later this year.

However, despite the pressure mounting on Kohli, Indian captain Rohit Sharma has backed the batting maestro and defended him from his critics. Speaking at the post-match presser after India's 2-1 series win against England, Rohit said form can go up and down but a player's quality remains. The Hitman asserted that the Indian team management is aware of Kohli's quality as a batter and will continue to back him.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/suryakumar-yadavs-century-goes-in-vain-as-england-beat-india-by-17-runs-in-3rd-t20i-496205">Suryakumar Yadav's century goes in vain as England beat India by 17 runs in 3rd T20I</a>

“Form upar neeche hota hai, player (Virat Kohli) ka quality kabhi kharab nahi hota hai. (There will always be ups and downs in the cricketer’s form but players’ quality will never fade away.) We should always keep this in mind that there is a quality in certain players and we as a team back that quality,” Rohit told reporters when asked about Kohli's poor form.

“When someone is scoring consistently for so long, we can’t overlook his contribution if he is not scoring in one or two series or in one or two years. We know the importance of Virat Kohli. The experts have got all the right to talk about it but for us, these things don’t matter,” he added.

Recently, former India captain Kapil Dev had questioned Kohli's spot in India's T20I team following his dreadful run for the Men in Blue. Kapil had argued if a player like R Ashwin can be benched in Tests, Kohli too can be dropped from T20Is. Several other experts have also criticised Kohli for&nbsp;his woeful form.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/good-call-usman-khawaja-takes-a-dig-at-kapil-dev-for-questioning-virat-kohlis-spot-in-indias-t20i-team-496192">'Good call': Usman Khawaja takes a dig at Kapil Dev for questioning Virat Kohli's spot in India's T20I team</a>

Responding to Kohli's critics, Rohit said the team doesn't focus on the outside noise and the experts who want Kohli out of India's T20I squad don't know what is going on inside the dressing room. Extending his full support to Kohli, the Hitman assured he will continue to back the 33-year-old, who is regarded as one of the greatest batters of the generation.

“We don’t listen much to the outside noise. I don’t know who these experts are. I don’t understand why they are called experts. They are watching the game from outside, they don’t know what is going on inside in the dressing room,” said Rohit.

“There’s always a thought process behind picking up a team. We try to back our players, the people watching the game from outside don’t know about it,” he added. 
&nbsp;

Indian cricket team captain Rohit Sharma responded to Virat Kohli's critics amid his ongoing lean patch for the Men in Blue. Kohli's struggles with the willow continued in the third and final T20I against England in Nottingham as he was once again sent packing cheaply on just 11 runs in India's 17-run defeat against the hosts.

Indian cricket team captain Rohit Sharma responded to Virat Kohli's critics amid his ongoing lean patch for the Men in Blue. Kohli's struggles with the willow continued in the third and final T20I against England in Nottingham as he was once again sent packing cheaply on just 11 runs in India's 17-run defeat against the hosts. Rohit was asked about Kohli's concerning form post the team's loss against England on Sunday. Kohli, who came out to bat at his usual number 3 spot in the 216-run chase, looked in fine touch as he slammed a four and a six off David Willey before getting caught on the next delivery. Kohli was caught by Jason Roy trying to get another boundary in the third over from Willey. Kohli has been enduring a rough patch with the bat in international cricket for quite some time now and has not scored a century for India since Noveber 2019. His recent failures have also led to former cricketers and experts questioning his spot in India's T20I team ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia later this year. However, despite the pressure mounting on Kohli, Indian captain Rohit Sharma has backed the batting maestro and defended him from his critics. Speaking at the post-match presser after India's 2-1 series win against England, Rohit said form can go up and down but a player's quality remains. The Hitman asserted that the Indian team management is aware of Kohli's quality as a batter and will continue to back him. Also Read: Suryakumar Yadav's century goes in vain as England beat India by 17 runs in 3rd T20I “Form upar neeche hota hai, player (Virat Kohli) ka quality kabhi kharab nahi hota hai. (There will always be ups and downs in the cricketer’s form but players’ quality will never fade away.) We should always keep this in mind that there is a quality in certain players and we as a team back that quality,” Rohit told reporters when asked about Kohli's poor form. “When someone is scoring consistently for so long, we can’t overlook his contribution if he is not scoring in one or two series or in one or two years. We know the importance of Virat Kohli. The experts have got all the right to talk about it but for us, these things don’t matter,” he added. Recently, former India captain Kapil Dev had questioned Kohli's spot in India's T20I team following his dreadful run for the Men in Blue. Kapil had argued if a player like R Ashwin can be benched in Tests, Kohli too can be dropped from T20Is. Several other experts have also criticised Kohli for his woeful form. Also Read: 'Good call': Usman Khawaja takes a dig at Kapil Dev for questioning Virat Kohli's spot in India's T20I team Responding to Kohli's critics, Rohit said the team doesn't focus on the outside noise and the experts who want Kohli out of India's T20I squad don't know what is going on inside the dressing room. Extending his full support to Kohli, the Hitman assured he will continue to back the 33-year-old, who is regarded as one of the greatest batters of the generation. “We don’t listen much to the outside noise. I don’t know who these experts are. I don’t understand why they are called experts. They are watching the game from outside, they don’t know what is going on inside in the dressing room,” said Rohit. “There’s always a thought process behind picking up a team. We try to back our players, the people watching the game from outside don’t know about it,” he added.

Rohit Sharma defends Virat Kohli, responds to his critics: 'They don't know what's going on inside'

Rohit Sharma became the second captain after Virat Kohli to win a T20I series in England as India thrashed the hosts by 49 runs in the second T20I at Edgbaston in Birmingham on Saturday. It was a clinical all-round performance from the Men in Blue, who successfully defended the target of 170 runs to register their second win in a row and take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series.

India made four changes in their playing XI from the series-opener as the likes of Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadeja all returned to the side. The visitors continued with their new attacking approach with the bat after being asked to bat first at Edgbaston.

Rishabh Pant was promoted to open the batting and the move paid off well as he combined with skipper Rohit Sharma to give the team a flying start. The duo added 49 runs for the first wicket before India lost three wickets in quick succession as the two openers departed while Virat Kohli's lean patch continued.

All-rounder Ravindra Jadeja came to India's rescue and slammed a brilliant cameo of unbeaten 46 to guide them to a fighting total of 170 runs. In reply, England were skittled out for a paltry 121 in their run-chase as Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Jasprit Bumrah ran riot with the ball. While Bhuvneshwar finished with excellent figures of 3/15 in his 3 overs, Bumrah picked up 2 wickets while conceding only 10 runs off his 2 overs.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ravindra-jadeja-bowlers-star-as-india-thrash-england-by-49-runs-in-2nd-t20i-to-clinch-series-495963">Ravindra Jadeja, bowlers star as India thrash England by 49 runs in 2nd T20I to clinch series</a>

The Rohit Sharma-led side earned praise from all corners for their stupendous display against England in the second T20I. Former England skipper Michael Vaughan also lauded India for their tremendous effort and said the team is showing promising signs ahead of the T20 World Cup 2022 this year.

"2 performances from India that have been high class but still with room for improvement .. plus a player or 2 who are not in the side that could improve them .. very promising leading into the T20 WC," Vaughan wrote in a tweet.

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2 performances from India that have been high class but still with room for improvement .. plus a player or 2 who are not in the side that could improve them .. very promising leading into the T20 WC .. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ENGvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ENGvIND</a>
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Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-pakistani-cricketer-ahmed-shehzad-wants-brad-pitt-to-play-him-in-his-biopic-trolled-mercilessly-495935">Watch: Pakistani cricketer Ahmed Shehzad wants Brad Pitt to play him in his biopic, trolled mercilessly&nbsp;</a>

While it was a dominant win for India, there still remains a lot of room for improvement in the side with Kohli yet to find his groove in the top order. Deepak Hoods has been breathing down Kohli's neck amid calls that the former India skipper should be dropped to make way for youngsters in the playing XI in T20Is.

However, Kohli is unlikely to be benched and will be hoping to respond to his critics with the willow in the final third T20I against England on Sunday&nbsp;(July 10). Kohli was dismissed on just 1 run off three balls in the 2nd T20I on Saturday and will be eager to bounce back in the final encounter.

&nbsp;

Rohit Sharma became the second captain after Virat Kohli to win a T20I series in England as India thrashed the hosts by 49 runs in the second T20I at Edgbaston in Birmingham on Saturday.

Rohit Sharma became the second captain after Virat Kohli to win a T20I series in England as India thrashed the hosts by 49 runs in the second T20I at Edgbaston in Birmingham on Saturday. It was a clinical all-round performance from the Men in Blue, who successfully defended the target of 170 runs to register their second win in a row and take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series. India made four changes in their playing XI from the series-opener as the likes of Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadeja all returned to the side. The visitors continued with their new attacking approach with the bat after being asked to bat first at Edgbaston. Rishabh Pant was promoted to open the batting and the move paid off well as he combined with skipper Rohit Sharma to give the team a flying start. The duo added 49 runs for the first wicket before India lost three wickets in quick succession as the two openers departed while Virat Kohli's lean patch continued. All-rounder Ravindra Jadeja came to India's rescue and slammed a brilliant cameo of unbeaten 46 to guide them to a fighting total of 170 runs. In reply, England were skittled out for a paltry 121 in their run-chase as Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Jasprit Bumrah ran riot with the ball. While Bhuvneshwar finished with excellent figures of 3/15 in his 3 overs, Bumrah picked up 2 wickets while conceding only 10 runs off his 2 overs. Also Read: Ravindra Jadeja, bowlers star as India thrash England by 49 runs in 2nd T20I to clinch series The Rohit Sharma-led side earned praise from all corners for their stupendous display against England in the second T20I. Former England skipper Michael Vaughan also lauded India for their tremendous effort and said the team is showing promising signs ahead of the T20 World Cup 2022 this year. "2 performances from India that have been high class but still with room for improvement .. plus a player or 2 who are not in the side that could improve them .. very promising leading into the T20 WC," Vaughan wrote in a tweet. 2 performances from India that have been high class but still with room for improvement .. plus a player or 2 who are not in the side that could improve them .. very promising leading into the T20 WC .. #ENGvIND — Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) July 9, 2022 × Also Read: Watch: Pakistani cricketer Ahmed Shehzad wants Brad Pitt to play him in his biopic, trolled mercilessly While it was a dominant win for India, there still remains a lot of room for improvement in the side with Kohli yet to find his groove in the top order. Deepak Hoods has been breathing down Kohli's neck amid calls that the former India skipper should be dropped to make way for youngsters in the playing XI in T20Is. However, Kohli is unlikely to be benched and will be hoping to respond to his critics with the willow in the final third T20I against England on Sunday (July 10). Kohli was dismissed on just 1 run off three balls in the 2nd T20I on Saturday and will be eager to bounce back in the final encounter.

'Very promising leading into T20 WC': Michael Vaughan lauds India after 49-run win over England in 2nd T20I

Rohit Sharma's inspirational leadership and an aggressive brand new approach saw India completely outclass England by 49 runs in the second T20 International to seal the three-match series with an unassailable 2-0 lead here on Saturday.

Batting first, India once again showed a start-to-finish aggressive intent while reaching 170 for eight riding on new 'batting all-rounder' Ravindra Jadeja (46 not out off 29 balls) after a sudden collapse during the middle-phase on a track full of pace and bounce.

With the ball, Bhuvneshwar Kumar's (3/15) newfound rhythm in the powerplay overs was superbly complemented by the skilful duo of Jasprit Bumrah (2/10) and Yuzevndra Chahal (2/10) as England innings imploded for a meagre 121 in 17 overs.

If India's batting has been very good in both the games, the bowling has simply been outstanding with complete domination in the powerplays. Since he got full-time captaincy, the Indian team is yet to lose a match under him.

There has been three clean sweeps -- New Zealand (3-0), West Indies (3-0), Sri Lanka (3-0) and a fourth against England in the current one looks imminent. With three months left for the World T20, the playing XI on Saturday gave a glimpse of what could be the batting order and its philosophy going forward.

Rishabh Pant's (26 off 15 balls) elevation as an opener alongside skipper Rohit (31 off 20 balls) is a welcome move where the team at least wouldn't be erring in the side of caution in the powerplay overs. In between the duo, they hit seven fours and three sixes in the first six overs, an approach that was missing during last T20 World Cup.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/the-siege-is-over-sanath-jayasuriya-joins-anti-govt-protests-sangakkara-jayawardene-also-extend-support-495926">'The siege is over':&nbsp;Jayasuriya joins anti-govt protests, Sangakkara &amp; Jayawardene also extend support</a>

The strategy is to not stop playing the shots even if wickets fall at one end and Virat Kohli (1 off 3 balls) did feel the peer pressure and the mistimed skier showed his desperation.

But the most impressive aspect came to the fore from 89 for five, as India still managed to reach 170, courtesy Jadeja, who didn't have a great time in T20 cricket having had a torrid time in CSK during IPL, where he lost form and fractured relationships.

With strong indications that he will leave CSK next year, Jadeja seemed to be playing with a free mind and it was evident that even as wickets fell at the other end, there was no letting up in his strokeplay as the scoreboard had a competitive feel to it.

A good Indian white-ball team has always had Bhuvneshwar as an important component in the set-up. In the first game, it was a banana inswinger that castled rival captain Jos Buttler and on Saturday, a classical outswinger first up saw Jason Roy edging it to the slip cordon.

The wily Bhuvneshwar then asked Pant to come up to the stumps to stop Buttler from giving the charge and the result was a lazy under-edge into the keeper's gloves. Liam Livingstone (15) with a helmet cam was fooled by a Bumrah slow off-cutter that took ages to jag back and knock the bails off.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-pakistani-cricketer-ahmed-shehzad-wants-brad-pitt-to-play-him-in-his-biopic-trolled-mercilessly-495935">Watch: Pakistani cricketer Ahmed Shehzad wants Brad Pitt to play him in his biopic, trolled mercilessly&nbsp;</a>

Harry Brook had a couple of boundaries but when Chahal tossed one up, he took the bait but couldn't get the execution right. Moeen Ali (35) did hit some shots but England lost wickets at regular intervals as Rohit brilliantly used his bowlers.

With three wickets down, he unleashed Chahal and just when Moeen was trying to take the game away, he got in Hardik Pandya, who got him a breakthrough. Team's weakest bowling link Harshal Patel (1/34) was brought towards the end when they were well course to win the game.

Rohit Sharma's inspirational leadership and an aggressive brand new approach saw India completely outclass England by 49 runs in the second T20 International to seal the three-match series with an unassailable 2-0 lead here on Saturday.

Rohit Sharma's inspirational leadership and an aggressive brand new approach saw India completely outclass England by 49 runs in the second T20 International to seal the three-match series with an unassailable 2-0 lead here on Saturday. Batting first, India once again showed a start-to-finish aggressive intent while reaching 170 for eight riding on new 'batting all-rounder' Ravindra Jadeja (46 not out off 29 balls) after a sudden collapse during the middle-phase on a track full of pace and bounce. With the ball, Bhuvneshwar Kumar's (3/15) newfound rhythm in the powerplay overs was superbly complemented by the skilful duo of Jasprit Bumrah (2/10) and Yuzevndra Chahal (2/10) as England innings imploded for a meagre 121 in 17 overs. If India's batting has been very good in both the games, the bowling has simply been outstanding with complete domination in the powerplays. Since he got full-time captaincy, the Indian team is yet to lose a match under him. There has been three clean sweeps -- New Zealand (3-0), West Indies (3-0), Sri Lanka (3-0) and a fourth against England in the current one looks imminent. With three months left for the World T20, the playing XI on Saturday gave a glimpse of what could be the batting order and its philosophy going forward. Rishabh Pant's (26 off 15 balls) elevation as an opener alongside skipper Rohit (31 off 20 balls) is a welcome move where the team at least wouldn't be erring in the side of caution in the powerplay overs. In between the duo, they hit seven fours and three sixes in the first six overs, an approach that was missing during last T20 World Cup. Also Read: 'The siege is over': Jayasuriya joins anti-govt protests, Sangakkara & Jayawardene also extend support The strategy is to not stop playing the shots even if wickets fall at one end and Virat Kohli (1 off 3 balls) did feel the peer pressure and the mistimed skier showed his desperation. But the most impressive aspect came to the fore from 89 for five, as India still managed to reach 170, courtesy Jadeja, who didn't have a great time in T20 cricket having had a torrid time in CSK during IPL, where he lost form and fractured relationships. With strong indications that he will leave CSK next year, Jadeja seemed to be playing with a free mind and it was evident that even as wickets fell at the other end, there was no letting up in his strokeplay as the scoreboard had a competitive feel to it. A good Indian white-ball team has always had Bhuvneshwar as an important component in the set-up. In the first game, it was a banana inswinger that castled rival captain Jos Buttler and on Saturday, a classical outswinger first up saw Jason Roy edging it to the slip cordon. The wily Bhuvneshwar then asked Pant to come up to the stumps to stop Buttler from giving the charge and the result was a lazy under-edge into the keeper's gloves. Liam Livingstone (15) with a helmet cam was fooled by a Bumrah slow off-cutter that took ages to jag back and knock the bails off. Also Read: Watch: Pakistani cricketer Ahmed Shehzad wants Brad Pitt to play him in his biopic, trolled mercilessly Harry Brook had a couple of boundaries but when Chahal tossed one up, he took the bait but couldn't get the execution right. Moeen Ali (35) did hit some shots but England lost wickets at regular intervals as Rohit brilliantly used his bowlers. With three wickets down, he unleashed Chahal and just when Moeen was trying to take the game away, he got in Hardik Pandya, who got him a breakthrough. Team's weakest bowling link Harshal Patel (1/34) was brought towards the end when they were well course to win the game.

Ravindra Jadeja, bowlers star as India thrash England by 49 runs in 2nd T20I to clinch series

England pacer James Anderson revealed Jonny Bairstow was left annoyed after Virat Kohli's continuous sledging attempts against him during the recently-concluded fifth Test between India and England at Edgbaston. England thrashed India by 7 wickets in the rescheduled fifth Test to draw the 2-2 and deny the visitors a historic Test series win. Bairstow and Joe Root were the heroes with the bat for England as they slammed centuries apiece to help the hosts chase down the target of 378 runs comfortably in their second innings.

Bairstow, who slammed back-to-back hundreds in England's both innings, was involved in a heated exchange with Indian star Kohli on Day 3 of the Test match. The duo had an exchange in the middle before Kohli was seen gesturing Bairstow to shut down with a finger on his lips. Bairstow remained unfazed despite Kohli's sledging attempts and notched up a brilliant century.

Anderson revealed Kohli was sledging Bairstow a lot but it only worked in the favour of the England batter as it pumped him up and helped him improve his scoring rate. Anderson also recalled Bairstow's reaction in the dressing room at lunch after Kohli's sledging attempts against him.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shut-up-just-stand-and-bat-virat-kohli-sledges-englands-jonny-bairstow-in-edgbaston-test-watch-494125">'Shut up, just stand and bat': Kohli sledges England's Bairstow in Edgbaston Test - WATCH</a>

"Jonny was 80 not out and Virat had been going at him and sledging him a lot. I don't know if you saw the strike-rate difference? His strike rate was about 20 before Virat started sledging him and about 150 after," Anderson said on BBC Tailenders Podcast speaking about the heated exchange between Kohli and Bairstow.

"His first words back in the dressing room at lunch were: 'When will they learn to shut it?' If there's somebody you don't want to rub up the wrong way, it is Jonny Bairstow," the England pacer added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-wont-be-shutting-up-jonny-bairstow-opens-up-on-verbal-duel-with-virat-kohli-in-edgbaston-test-494256">'We won't be shutting up...' - Jonny Bairstow opens up on verbal duel with Virat Kohli in Edgbaston Test</a>

Bairstow was one of the stand-out performers for England in the Edgbaston Test with knocks of 106 and an unbeaten 114 in the two innings respectively. The stylish right-hander turned out to be a nightmare for Indian bowlers during England's run-chase in the second innings as he looked in fine form and helped the hosts pull off their highest ever run chase in Test cricket.

England pacer James Anderson revealed Jonny Bairstow was left annoyed after Virat Kohli's continuous sledging attempts against him during the recently-concluded fifth Test between India and England at Edgbaston.

England pacer James Anderson revealed Jonny Bairstow was left annoyed after Virat Kohli's continuous sledging attempts against him during the recently-concluded fifth Test between India and England at Edgbaston. England thrashed India by 7 wickets in the rescheduled fifth Test to draw the 2-2 and deny the visitors a historic Test series win. Bairstow and Joe Root were the heroes with the bat for England as they slammed centuries apiece to help the hosts chase down the target of 378 runs comfortably in their second innings. Bairstow, who slammed back-to-back hundreds in England's both innings, was involved in a heated exchange with Indian star Kohli on Day 3 of the Test match. The duo had an exchange in the middle before Kohli was seen gesturing Bairstow to shut down with a finger on his lips. Bairstow remained unfazed despite Kohli's sledging attempts and notched up a brilliant century. Anderson revealed Kohli was sledging Bairstow a lot but it only worked in the favour of the England batter as it pumped him up and helped him improve his scoring rate. Anderson also recalled Bairstow's reaction in the dressing room at lunch after Kohli's sledging attempts against him. Also Read: 'Shut up, just stand and bat': Kohli sledges England's Bairstow in Edgbaston Test - WATCH "Jonny was 80 not out and Virat had been going at him and sledging him a lot. I don't know if you saw the strike-rate difference? His strike rate was about 20 before Virat started sledging him and about 150 after," Anderson said on BBC Tailenders Podcast speaking about the heated exchange between Kohli and Bairstow. "His first words back in the dressing room at lunch were: 'When will they learn to shut it?' If there's somebody you don't want to rub up the wrong way, it is Jonny Bairstow," the England pacer added. Also Read: 'We won't be shutting up...' - Jonny Bairstow opens up on verbal duel with Virat Kohli in Edgbaston Test Bairstow was one of the stand-out performers for England in the Edgbaston Test with knocks of 106 and an unbeaten 114 in the two innings respectively. The stylish right-hander turned out to be a nightmare for Indian bowlers during England's run-chase in the second innings as he looked in fine form and helped the hosts pull off their highest ever run chase in Test cricket.

'When will they learn to shut': James Anderson reveals how Bairstow reacted to Kohli's sledging in 5th Test

Virat Kohli might not have been in the best of form with the bat during the recently-concluded rescheduled fifth Test between India and England at Edgbaston in Birmingham but he was a livewire on the pitch. Despite struggling with the bat on the persona front, Kohli didn't let his intensity go down while fielding and was in the thick of the action throughout the Test match which India ended up losing by 7 wickets.

India lost the game after England comfortably chased down the mighty target of 378 runs in their second innings to script history as the hosts pulled off their biggest ever run-chase in Test cricket. Both India and England players gave their all but the hosts managed to come out on top in the end with a comprehensive win.

Kohli, who was spotted giving the Indian team a pep talk on the field on Day 1 of the Test match, remained actively involved in the proceedings. He was often seen celebrating passionately after the dismissals of the England batters and also tried to sledge a few while fielding. Kohli enjoyed a verbal battle with Jonny Bairstow in both innings and tried to get on the nerves of the English star.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/explained-how-can-team-india-enter-world-test-championship-final-after-losing-edgbaston-test-494937">Explained: How can Team India enter World Test Championship final after losing Edgbaston Test</a>

During England's second innings, Kohli was seen walking up to Bairstow and having a heated spat before asking him to shut his lips with his gesture. However, it didn't affect Bairstow much as he went on to score centuries in both innings to help his team win the game and draw the five-match series 2-2.

Former England cricketer David Llyod was far from impressed with Kohli's antics during the Test match and slammed him for his behaviour. The cricketer-turned commentator took a dig at Kohli suggesting he should take up cage fighting instead of playing cricket.

"Having said that, I do wonder where the line is and who draws it. Sportsmanship, banter, boorish behaviour, insults, abuse — we saw everything on day four. Cricket is a non-contact sport, but if a player feels the need to engage another, my advice is: take up cage fighting and have a proper go. Let’s see what you’re really made of," Lloyd wrote in his column for the Daily Mail.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-dont-want-to-make-excuses-rahul-dravid-reacts-to-indias-crushing-defeat-vs-england-in-edgbaston-test-494767">'I don't want to make excuses': Dravid reacts to India's crushing defeat vs England in Edgbaston Test</a>

Llyod later went on to call Kohli a 'pantomime villain' over his continuous sledging of England players but lauded the former India captain for his gesture post the conclusion of the game. Kohli was seen congratulating both Joe Root and Bairstow after England won the game with the help of unbeaten centuries from the duo.

&nbsp;"I thought the on-field scenes at the conclusion of the game were glorious, with India’s players congratulating Root and Jonny Bairstow and recognising the epic job they had done. Special mention for Virat Kohli who at times plays the pantomime villain, but who had a special word with both players. I like that," Llyod added.

Virat Kohli might not have been in the best of form with the bat during the recently-concluded rescheduled fifth Test between India and England at Edgbaston in Birmingham but he was a livewire on the pitch.

Virat Kohli might not have been in the best of form with the bat during the recently-concluded rescheduled fifth Test between India and England at Edgbaston in Birmingham but he was a livewire on the pitch. Despite struggling with the bat on the persona front, Kohli didn't let his intensity go down while fielding and was in the thick of the action throughout the Test match which India ended up losing by 7 wickets. India lost the game after England comfortably chased down the mighty target of 378 runs in their second innings to script history as the hosts pulled off their biggest ever run-chase in Test cricket. Both India and England players gave their all but the hosts managed to come out on top in the end with a comprehensive win. Kohli, who was spotted giving the Indian team a pep talk on the field on Day 1 of the Test match, remained actively involved in the proceedings. He was often seen celebrating passionately after the dismissals of the England batters and also tried to sledge a few while fielding. Kohli enjoyed a verbal battle with Jonny Bairstow in both innings and tried to get on the nerves of the English star. Also Read: Explained: How can Team India enter World Test Championship final after losing Edgbaston Test During England's second innings, Kohli was seen walking up to Bairstow and having a heated spat before asking him to shut his lips with his gesture. However, it didn't affect Bairstow much as he went on to score centuries in both innings to help his team win the game and draw the five-match series 2-2. Former England cricketer David Llyod was far from impressed with Kohli's antics during the Test match and slammed him for his behaviour. The cricketer-turned commentator took a dig at Kohli suggesting he should take up cage fighting instead of playing cricket. "Having said that, I do wonder where the line is and who draws it. Sportsmanship, banter, boorish behaviour, insults, abuse — we saw everything on day four. Cricket is a non-contact sport, but if a player feels the need to engage another, my advice is: take up cage fighting and have a proper go. Let’s see what you’re really made of," Lloyd wrote in his column for the Daily Mail. Also Read: 'I don't want to make excuses': Dravid reacts to India's crushing defeat vs England in Edgbaston Test Llyod later went on to call Kohli a 'pantomime villain' over his continuous sledging of England players but lauded the former India captain for his gesture post the conclusion of the game. Kohli was seen congratulating both Joe Root and Bairstow after England won the game with the help of unbeaten centuries from the duo. "I thought the on-field scenes at the conclusion of the game were glorious, with India’s players congratulating Root and Jonny Bairstow and recognising the epic job they had done. Special mention for Virat Kohli who at times plays the pantomime villain, but who had a special word with both players. I like that," Llyod added.

'Take up cage fighting': England great takes a dig at 'villain' Virat Kohli over his antics in Edgbaston Test

India head coach Rahul Dravid said it was disappointing to lose the rescheduled 5th Test against England at Edgbaston in Birmingham on Tuesday (July 05) as the hosts thrashed India by 7 wickets to level&nbsp;the five-match series which was postponed last year 2-2. England chased down the target of 378 runs comfortably in their second innings with the help of unbeaten centuries from Joe Root and Jonny Bairstow to pull off the highest-ever run chase in Test cricket.

India were ahead in the all-important Test match for the first three days as they aimed to script a historic series win in England with a 2-1 lead in their bag from last year. However, England got the better of Jasprit Bumrah &amp; Co., who struggled massively with the ball during England's second innings and managed to pick up only three wickets.

India have now lost their last three Test matches in a row overseas. They had suffered back-to-back defeats in the final two Tests against South Africa earlier this year and have now lost three in a row overseas. Dravid rued the missed opportunities in South Africa and said India have struggled to pick 20 wickets in a Test match over the last few months which is one of the major reasons behind the drop in performances.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/updated-world-test-championship-points-table-after-indias-7-wicket-loss-vs-england-in-edgbaston-test-494742">India drop below Pakistan: Updated WTC points table after England win Edgbaston Test</a>

"It's been disappointing for us.&nbsp;I mean we had a couple of opportunities in South Africa as well and here as well. I just think it's something we need to look at, something we need to probably work on," Dravid told reporters after India's 7-wicket loss at Edgbaston.

"We have been very good at that over the last few years, in terms of taking wickets and winning those Test matches. But, yeah, we haven't been able to do that over the last few months. It could be a variety of factors: it could be maybe we just need to maintain that intensity, maintain that level of fitness, or maintain that level of performance right through a Test match," he added.

The 5th Test between India and England was originally scheduled to be played in Old Trafford in Manchester last year but had to be postponed due to COVID-19. India woud perhaps have wanted to close out the series last year considering they were dominant throughout and almost had a series win in their pocket.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/edgbaston-test-india-succumb-to-new-low-after-england-chase-378-as-series-ends-at-2-2-494690">Edgbaston Test: India succumb to new low after England chase 378 as series ends at 2-2</a>

Dravid, who was not part of India's coaching staff back then with Ravi Shastri and Virat Kohli still in charge, insisted situation of both teams were different during the series last year. However, he asserted he won't make any excuses for India's horrible show with the ball at Edgbaston.

"I don't want to make excuses. I wasn't part of the team then. India was on a roll at that stage. England were probably in a slightly different situation at that point of time. But they have come here on the back of three consecutive wins against New Zealand. We have had a long gap in between Test cricket, but no excuses," said Dravid.

India head coach Rahul Dravid said it was disappointing to lose the rescheduled 5th Test against England at Edgbaston in Birmingham on Tuesday (July 05) as the hosts thrashed India by 7 wickets to level the five-match series which was postponed last year 2-2.

India head coach Rahul Dravid said it was disappointing to lose the rescheduled 5th Test against England at Edgbaston in Birmingham on Tuesday (July 05) as the hosts thrashed India by 7 wickets to level the five-match series which was postponed last year 2-2. England chased down the target of 378 runs comfortably in their second innings with the help of unbeaten centuries from Joe Root and Jonny Bairstow to pull off the highest-ever run chase in Test cricket. India were ahead in the all-important Test match for the first three days as they aimed to script a historic series win in England with a 2-1 lead in their bag from last year. However, England got the better of Jasprit Bumrah & Co., who struggled massively with the ball during England's second innings and managed to pick up only three wickets. India have now lost their last three Test matches in a row overseas. They had suffered back-to-back defeats in the final two Tests against South Africa earlier this year and have now lost three in a row overseas. Dravid rued the missed opportunities in South Africa and said India have struggled to pick 20 wickets in a Test match over the last few months which is one of the major reasons behind the drop in performances. Also Read: India drop below Pakistan: Updated WTC points table after England win Edgbaston Test "It's been disappointing for us. I mean we had a couple of opportunities in South Africa as well and here as well. I just think it's something we need to look at, something we need to probably work on," Dravid told reporters after India's 7-wicket loss at Edgbaston. "We have been very good at that over the last few years, in terms of taking wickets and winning those Test matches. But, yeah, we haven't been able to do that over the last few months. It could be a variety of factors: it could be maybe we just need to maintain that intensity, maintain that level of fitness, or maintain that level of performance right through a Test match," he added. The 5th Test between India and England was originally scheduled to be played in Old Trafford in Manchester last year but had to be postponed due to COVID-19. India woud perhaps have wanted to close out the series last year considering they were dominant throughout and almost had a series win in their pocket. Also Read: Edgbaston Test: India succumb to new low after England chase 378 as series ends at 2-2 Dravid, who was not part of India's coaching staff back then with Ravi Shastri and Virat Kohli still in charge, insisted situation of both teams were different during the series last year. However, he asserted he won't make any excuses for India's horrible show with the ball at Edgbaston. "I don't want to make excuses. I wasn't part of the team then. India was on a roll at that stage. England were probably in a slightly different situation at that point of time. But they have come here on the back of three consecutive wins against New Zealand. We have had a long gap in between Test cricket, but no excuses," said Dravid.

'I don't want to make excuses': Rahul Dravid reacts to India's crushing defeat vs England in Edgbaston Test

Team India slipped to the fourth spot on the ICC World Test Championship 2021-2023 points table after their seven-wicket loss against England in the rescheduled fifth Test at Edgbaston in Birmingham. India were considered favourites to win the game ahead of the start of England's second innings in the Test match but an emphatic batting performance for the hosts saw them register a comprehensive win and draw the five-match series 2-2.

England rode on impressive unbeaten centuries from Joe Root and Jonny Bairstow to pull off their highest-ever run-chase in Test cricket as they gunned down the target of 379 runs with ease in their second innings. Indian bowlers had absolutely no answers to the brilliance&nbsp;of Bairstow and Root as they struggled to pick wickets resulting in an embarrassing loss for the visitors.

Apart from the average bowling performance in England's second innings, Indian batters had also failed to deliver in their second innings which resulted in the team's humiliating defeat at Edgbaston. Despite dominating the proceedings across the first three days of the Test match, India lost the plot on Day 4 as England batted them out of the game.

With the loss, India also lost the chance to improve their points tally in the World Test Championship points table as they were overtaken by Pakistan at the third spot. India were also docked a couple of points for their slow over-rate in the Edgbaston Test apart from a fine of 40% match fee.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eng-vs-ind-5th-test-where-did-india-lose-the-plot-despite-a-sizeable-lead-jasprit-bumrah-explains-494715">Where did India lose the plot despite a sizeable lead? Jasprit Bumrah explains</a>

India are now placed at the 4th spot on the WTC points table with 75 points and a win percentage of 52.08. Pakistan have now gone above them on the points table with 44 points but a better win percentage of 52.38. Australia remain at the top with a 77.78 win percentage followed by South Africa at the second spot.

Check out the updated WTC points table:

<img alt="WTC table" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7b868d2e-4663-472e-ae5e-3fe45d10bca3" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WTC%202021-23%20points%20table.png" />

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-script-history-in-edgbaston-a-look-at-records-broken-by-stokes-co-with-emphatic-win-over-india-494728">England script history!&nbsp;A look at records broken by Stokes &amp; Co. with emphatic win over India</a>

India now stand on the brink of missing out on a spot in the final of the World Test Championship 2021-23 as they are in a must-win situation. India now have six Tests remaining in the ongoing cycle and will have to win each one of them to ensure they can finish in top two and qualify for the final. 
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Team India slipped to the fourth spot on the ICC World Test Championship 2021-2023 points table after their seven-wicket loss against England in the rescheduled fifth Test at Edgbaston in Birmingham.

Team India slipped to the fourth spot on the ICC World Test Championship 2021-2023 points table after their seven-wicket loss against England in the rescheduled fifth Test at Edgbaston in Birmingham. India were considered favourites to win the game ahead of the start of England's second innings in the Test match but an emphatic batting performance for the hosts saw them register a comprehensive win and draw the five-match series 2-2. England rode on impressive unbeaten centuries from Joe Root and Jonny Bairstow to pull off their highest-ever run-chase in Test cricket as they gunned down the target of 379 runs with ease in their second innings. Indian bowlers had absolutely no answers to the brilliance of Bairstow and Root as they struggled to pick wickets resulting in an embarrassing loss for the visitors. Apart from the average bowling performance in England's second innings, Indian batters had also failed to deliver in their second innings which resulted in the team's humiliating defeat at Edgbaston. Despite dominating the proceedings across the first three days of the Test match, India lost the plot on Day 4 as England batted them out of the game. With the loss, India also lost the chance to improve their points tally in the World Test Championship points table as they were overtaken by Pakistan at the third spot. India were also docked a couple of points for their slow over-rate in the Edgbaston Test apart from a fine of 40% match fee. Also Read: Where did India lose the plot despite a sizeable lead? Jasprit Bumrah explains India are now placed at the 4th spot on the WTC points table with 75 points and a win percentage of 52.08. Pakistan have now gone above them on the points table with 44 points but a better win percentage of 52.38. Australia remain at the top with a 77.78 win percentage followed by South Africa at the second spot. Check out the updated WTC points table: Also Read: England script history! A look at records broken by Stokes & Co. with emphatic win over India India now stand on the brink of missing out on a spot in the final of the World Test Championship 2021-23 as they are in a must-win situation. India now have six Tests remaining in the ongoing cycle and will have to win each one of them to ensure they can finish in top two and qualify for the final.

India drop below Pakistan: Updated World Test Championship points table after England win Edgbaston Test

England defeated India by seven wickets in the rescheduled fifth Test at Edgbaston on Tuesday (July 05) to deny the visitors a historic Test series victory. England chased down a tricky target of 378 runs with ease riding on centuries from Joe Root and Jonny Bairstow. Root and Bairstow slammed respective tons and shared an unbeaten stand of 269 runs for the fourth wicket to take the hosts over the line.

It was an action-packed encounter filled with a lot of drama and emotions as both India and England gave their all in the all-important game. While there were several instances of players sledging each other, England pacer Stuart Broad was on the receiving end of some harsh words from the umpire&nbsp;Richard Kettleborough during England's first innings.

The incident happened when Broad was facing Bumrah during England's second innings and the Indian pacer bowled two back-to-back bouncers against him. Broad ducked the second bouncer which went for a four after flying over Indian wicket-keeper Rishabh Pant's head. He was then spotted having a discussion with the on-field umpire Kettleborough trying to find out if it was a second bouncer for the over.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/edgbaston-test-india-succumb-to-new-low-after-england-chase-378-as-series-ends-at-2-2-494690">Edgbaston Test -&nbsp;India succumb to new low after England chase 378 as series ends at 2-2</a>

The umpire had a brief discussion with the England pacer before reprimanding him for his antics. Kettleborough had some harsh words for Broad and was heard on the stump-mic asking him to continue focusing on his batting and not argue.

"Let us do the umpiring, you do the batting, alright?” - said Kettleborough in a video of the incident that has gone viral on social media. "Otherwise, you’re going to get into trouble again. One for the over. Broady, Broady, get on with the batting and shut up," he can be heard saying further as Broad walked back to resume his batting.

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Richard Kettleborough<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FromYorkshire?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FromYorkshire</a> <a href="https://t.co/SIIczXE4UQ">pic.twitter.com/SIIczXE4UQ</a>
— Sɪʀ Fʀᴇᴅ Bᴏʏᴄᴏᴛᴛ (@SirFredBoycott) <a href="https://twitter.com/SirFredBoycott/status/1544040715751411713?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 4, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/root-bairstow-slam-tons-as-england-hammer-india-by-7-wickets-in-edgbaston-test-draw-series-2-2-494674">Root, Bairstow slam tons as England hammer India by 7 wickets in Edgbaston Test, draw series 2-2</a>

Broad didn't have the best of outings in the Test match against India despite completing 550 wickets for England in the whites. He was taken to the cleaners by Indian fast bowlers Jasprit Bumrah during India's second innings and ended up conceding a total of 35 runs against him in a single over to create the dubious record for most runs conceded in a single over in Tests.

England defeated India by seven wickets in the rescheduled fifth Test at Edgbaston on Tuesday (July 05) to deny the visitors a historic Test series victory. England chased down a tricky target of 378 runs with ease riding on centuries from Joe Root and Jonny Bairstow.

England defeated India by seven wickets in the rescheduled fifth Test at Edgbaston on Tuesday (July 05) to deny the visitors a historic Test series victory. England chased down a tricky target of 378 runs with ease riding on centuries from Joe Root and Jonny Bairstow. Root and Bairstow slammed respective tons and shared an unbeaten stand of 269 runs for the fourth wicket to take the hosts over the line. It was an action-packed encounter filled with a lot of drama and emotions as both India and England gave their all in the all-important game. While there were several instances of players sledging each other, England pacer Stuart Broad was on the receiving end of some harsh words from the umpire Richard Kettleborough during England's first innings. The incident happened when Broad was facing Bumrah during England's second innings and the Indian pacer bowled two back-to-back bouncers against him. Broad ducked the second bouncer which went for a four after flying over Indian wicket-keeper Rishabh Pant's head. He was then spotted having a discussion with the on-field umpire Kettleborough trying to find out if it was a second bouncer for the over. Also Read: Edgbaston Test - India succumb to new low after England chase 378 as series ends at 2-2 The umpire had a brief discussion with the England pacer before reprimanding him for his antics. Kettleborough had some harsh words for Broad and was heard on the stump-mic asking him to continue focusing on his batting and not argue. "Let us do the umpiring, you do the batting, alright?” - said Kettleborough in a video of the incident that has gone viral on social media. "Otherwise, you’re going to get into trouble again. One for the over. Broady, Broady, get on with the batting and shut up," he can be heard saying further as Broad walked back to resume his batting. Richard Kettleborough#FromYorkshire pic.twitter.com/SIIczXE4UQ — Sɪʀ Fʀᴇᴅ Bᴏʏᴄᴏᴛᴛ (@SirFredBoycott) July 4, 2022 × Also Read: Root, Bairstow slam tons as England hammer India by 7 wickets in Edgbaston Test, draw series 2-2 Broad didn't have the best of outings in the Test match against India despite completing 550 wickets for England in the whites. He was taken to the cleaners by Indian fast bowlers Jasprit Bumrah during India's second innings and ended up conceding a total of 35 runs against him in a single over to create the dubious record for most runs conceded in a single over in Tests.

WATCH: Umpire tells Stuart Broad to 'shut up' and get on with his batting after his antics against India

Not many had given England a chance at the start of their second innings in the rescheduled fifth Test against India at Edgbaston in Birmingham as the hosts had a massive target of 378 runs in front of them to deny India a historic series win. The England batters were certainly up for the challenge and made a mockery of the Indian bowling attack to nail down the target inside just 76.4 overs and register an emphatic victory by 7 wickets.

Joe Root and Jonny Bairstow continued their purple patch at Edgbaston as they notched up a century apiece in England's second innings to help the hosts chase down 378 runs without breaking a sweat on Day 5 of the Test match. Asked to chase the huge total, England had started their second innings as far from favourites but a brilliant opening stand followed by terrific knocks from Root and Bairstow sealed a series-levelling win for them.

Openers Alex Lees (56) and Zak Crawley (46) took England off to a flying start in their second innings with a 107-run stand for the first wicket. India's stand-in skipper Jasprit Bumrah, who was leading the side in Rohit Sharma's absence, got the visitors back into the game by breaking their partnership at a crucial juncture.

Bumrah then got rid of Ollie Pope on a duck in quick succession before Lees was run-out leaving England reeling on 109/3. However, Root and Bairstow combined to put on a resilient stand and take England close to victory. After being dominated by India over the course of the first three days in the Test match, England stood just 119 runs away from victory at stumps on Day 3.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pure-madeness-kevin-pietersen-slams-jasprit-bumrah-for-poor-tactics-as-england-dominate-india-in-5th-test-494656">&nbsp;'Pure madness':&nbsp;Pietersen slams&nbsp;Bumrah for poor tactics as England dominate India in 5th Test</a>

It was an incredible turnaround from the hosts as they went from being the underdogs at the start of their second innings to become the absolute favourite to win the game. On Day 5, Root and Bairstow continued from where they had left and went on to notch up their respective centuries. While Root finished unbeaten on 142 off just 173 balls, Bairstow scored 114 off 145 balls.

India dominated the proceedings right from Day 1 despite getting off to a poor start after being asked to bat first. India were struggling at 98/5 at one stage in their first innings before centurions Ravindra Jadeja (104) and Rishabh Pant (146) combined to help them fight back. Skipper Bumrah gave the finishing touches with a sensational cameo of 16-ball 31 to help India post 416 runs on the board.

Indian bowlers then produced an exceptional show with the ball during England's first innings to bundle them out for 284 runs despite Bairstow's terrific knock of 106 runs. India amassed a healthy lead of 132 runs heading into their second innings but the batters failed to capitalise.

Barring Cheteshwar Pujara (66) and Pant (57), all other Indian batters failed to get going as India could only manage 245 runs in their second innings to extend their lead to 377 runs&nbsp;to hand England a massive target. However, the total proved to be a cakewalk for the English batters at the end as they chased it down with seven wickets to spare to deny India a historic series win.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-england-coach-mccullum-sends-short-ball-signal-to-bowlers-plots-iyers-dismissal-in-5th-test-494398">WATCH -&nbsp;England coach McCullum sends short-ball signal to bowlers, plots Iyer's dismissal in 5th Test</a>

The rescheduled fifth Test was originally scheduled to be played last year during India's tour of England but had to be postponed due to COVID-19. It was later decided that the final fifth Test of the series will be played at the start of India's tour of England this year.

India were leading the five-match series 2-1 from last year and stood just one step away from scripting history as it would have been their first Test series win on English soil since 2007. However, England got the better of the visitors in the rescheduled game to ensure the series ended in a 2-2 stalemate.

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Not many had given England a chance at the start of their second innings in the rescheduled fifth Test against India at Edgbaston in Birmingham as the hosts had a massive target of 378 runs in front of them to deny India a historic series win.

Not many had given England a chance at the start of their second innings in the rescheduled fifth Test against India at Edgbaston in Birmingham as the hosts had a massive target of 378 runs in front of them to deny India a historic series win. The England batters were certainly up for the challenge and made a mockery of the Indian bowling attack to nail down the target inside just 76.4 overs and register an emphatic victory by 7 wickets. Joe Root and Jonny Bairstow continued their purple patch at Edgbaston as they notched up a century apiece in England's second innings to help the hosts chase down 378 runs without breaking a sweat on Day 5 of the Test match. Asked to chase the huge total, England had started their second innings as far from favourites but a brilliant opening stand followed by terrific knocks from Root and Bairstow sealed a series-levelling win for them. Openers Alex Lees (56) and Zak Crawley (46) took England off to a flying start in their second innings with a 107-run stand for the first wicket. India's stand-in skipper Jasprit Bumrah, who was leading the side in Rohit Sharma's absence, got the visitors back into the game by breaking their partnership at a crucial juncture. Bumrah then got rid of Ollie Pope on a duck in quick succession before Lees was run-out leaving England reeling on 109/3. However, Root and Bairstow combined to put on a resilient stand and take England close to victory. After being dominated by India over the course of the first three days in the Test match, England stood just 119 runs away from victory at stumps on Day 3. Also Read: 'Pure madness': Pietersen slams Bumrah for poor tactics as England dominate India in 5th Test It was an incredible turnaround from the hosts as they went from being the underdogs at the start of their second innings to become the absolute favourite to win the game. On Day 5, Root and Bairstow continued from where they had left and went on to notch up their respective centuries. While Root finished unbeaten on 142 off just 173 balls, Bairstow scored 114 off 145 balls. India dominated the proceedings right from Day 1 despite getting off to a poor start after being asked to bat first. India were struggling at 98/5 at one stage in their first innings before centurions Ravindra Jadeja (104) and Rishabh Pant (146) combined to help them fight back. Skipper Bumrah gave the finishing touches with a sensational cameo of 16-ball 31 to help India post 416 runs on the board. Indian bowlers then produced an exceptional show with the ball during England's first innings to bundle them out for 284 runs despite Bairstow's terrific knock of 106 runs. India amassed a healthy lead of 132 runs heading into their second innings but the batters failed to capitalise. Barring Cheteshwar Pujara (66) and Pant (57), all other Indian batters failed to get going as India could only manage 245 runs in their second innings to extend their lead to 377 runs to hand England a massive target. However, the total proved to be a cakewalk for the English batters at the end as they chased it down with seven wickets to spare to deny India a historic series win. Also Read: WATCH - England coach McCullum sends short-ball signal to bowlers, plots Iyer's dismissal in 5th Test The rescheduled fifth Test was originally scheduled to be played last year during India's tour of England but had to be postponed due to COVID-19. It was later decided that the final fifth Test of the series will be played at the start of India's tour of England this year. India were leading the five-match series 2-1 from last year and stood just one step away from scripting history as it would have been their first Test series win on English soil since 2007. However, England got the better of the visitors in the rescheduled game to ensure the series ended in a 2-2 stalemate.

Root, Bairstow slam tons as England hammer India by 7 wickets in Edgbaston Test, draw series 2-2

Virat Kohli has been a livewire on the pitch during the ongoing Edgbaston Test between India and England. With last year's five-match Test series on the line, both teams have given their all so far in the rescheduled fifth Test which was postponed due to COVID-19 last year. India dominated the proceedings on the first three days of the Test match but England regained the momentum in their second innings on Day 4.

After three days of intense action, Indian batters couldn't impress much in their second innings on Day 4 as the visitors managed to post 245 runs on the board, extending their lead to 377 runs. Cheteshwar Pujara (66) and Rishabh Pant (57) were the top-scorer for India with half-centuries apiece.

Despite getting to only 245 runs in their second innings, India managed to hand a tricky target of 378 runs to England and were regarded as favourites to win the game ahead of the start of England's second innings. However, the hosts got off to a flying start as openers Alex Lees and Zak Crawley shared a 107-run stand for the first wicket.

But just when it looked like England were cruising towards the target, the momentum shifted in India's favour after Jasprit Bumrah removed Crawley and Ollie Pope in quick succession. Lees too departed quickly after Bumrah's twin strikes as he was run out by Ravindra Jadeja on 56.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jasprit-bumrah-breaks-kapil-devs-record-as-he-continues-dream-run-in-edgbaston-test-against-england-494437">Bumrah breaks Kapil Dev's record as he continues dream run in Edgbaston Test against England</a>

Kohli, who has often been animated on the field so far in the Test match, broke into a wild celebration soon after Lees' run-out. The Indian superstar was seen celebrating passionately and the video of his animated celebration soon went viral on social media with fans lauding his passion for Test cricket.

Watch video:

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living to witness this Virat Kohli <a href="https://t.co/vWXbg0eDsq">pic.twitter.com/vWXbg0eDsq</a>
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Virat Kohli is the energy of Test cricket.<a href="https://t.co/PtadpF6Pdp">pic.twitter.com/PtadpF6Pdp</a>
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) <a href="https://twitter.com/CricCrazyJohns/status/1543979299488706561?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 4, 2022</a></blockquote>
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I just absolutely love this guy <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> <a href="https://t.co/8xudlrIiYF">pic.twitter.com/8xudlrIiYF</a>
— 𝑨𝑽 🇮🇳 (@cricketArnav) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketArnav/status/1543981501121003522?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 4, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-england-coach-mccullum-sends-short-ball-signal-to-bowlers-plots-iyers-dismissal-in-5th-test-494398">WATCH - England coach McCullum sends short-ball signal to bowlers, plots Iyer's dismissal in 5th Test</a>

England looked in troube after losing three wickets in quick succession but Joe Root and Jonny Bairstow combined in the middle to steady the ship for the hosts. While Root went on to notch up a fifty, Bairstow too is edging closer to one with the duo having already shared a stand of over 100 runs to take England cloer to the target at Edgbaston. England are now favourites to win as they aim to deny India a historic series victory.

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Virat Kohli has been a livewire on the pitch during the ongoing Edgbaston Test between India and England. With last year's five-match Test series on the line, both teams have given their all so far in the rescheduled fifth Test which was postponed due to COVID-19 last year.

Virat Kohli has been a livewire on the pitch during the ongoing Edgbaston Test between India and England. With last year's five-match Test series on the line, both teams have given their all so far in the rescheduled fifth Test which was postponed due to COVID-19 last year. India dominated the proceedings on the first three days of the Test match but England regained the momentum in their second innings on Day 4. After three days of intense action, Indian batters couldn't impress much in their second innings on Day 4 as the visitors managed to post 245 runs on the board, extending their lead to 377 runs. Cheteshwar Pujara (66) and Rishabh Pant (57) were the top-scorer for India with half-centuries apiece. Despite getting to only 245 runs in their second innings, India managed to hand a tricky target of 378 runs to England and were regarded as favourites to win the game ahead of the start of England's second innings. However, the hosts got off to a flying start as openers Alex Lees and Zak Crawley shared a 107-run stand for the first wicket. But just when it looked like England were cruising towards the target, the momentum shifted in India's favour after Jasprit Bumrah removed Crawley and Ollie Pope in quick succession. Lees too departed quickly after Bumrah's twin strikes as he was run out by Ravindra Jadeja on 56. Also Read: Bumrah breaks Kapil Dev's record as he continues dream run in Edgbaston Test against England Kohli, who has often been animated on the field so far in the Test match, broke into a wild celebration soon after Lees' run-out. The Indian superstar was seen celebrating passionately and the video of his animated celebration soon went viral on social media with fans lauding his passion for Test cricket. Watch video: living to witness this Virat Kohli pic.twitter.com/vWXbg0eDsq — riya (@reaadubey) July 4, 2022 × Virat Kohli is the energy of Test cricket.pic.twitter.com/PtadpF6Pdp — Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) July 4, 2022 × I just absolutely love this guy @imVkohli pic.twitter.com/8xudlrIiYF — 𝑨𝑽 🇮🇳 (@cricketArnav) July 4, 2022 × Also Read: WATCH - England coach McCullum sends short-ball signal to bowlers, plots Iyer's dismissal in 5th Test England looked in troube after losing three wickets in quick succession but Joe Root and Jonny Bairstow combined in the middle to steady the ship for the hosts. While Root went on to notch up a fifty, Bairstow too is edging closer to one with the duo having already shared a stand of over 100 runs to take England cloer to the target at Edgbaston. England are now favourites to win as they aim to deny India a historic series victory.

WATCH: Virat Kohli celebrates wildly after Alex Lees' dismissal in 5th Test, video goes viral

India are currently in a strong position in the ongoing fifth Test against England at Edgbaston in Birmingham after amassing a 257-run lead at stumps on Day 3. India rode on impressive centuries from Ravindra Jadeja and Rishabh Pant to post a big total of 416 runs in their first innings before bundling out the hosts for 284 runs in their first innings to gain a healthy lead.

India have dominated the proceedings so far in the rescheduled fifth Test under stand-in skipper Jasprit Bumrah in the absence of regular captain Rohit Sharma. After playing a sensational cameo of 31 runs with the bat, Bumrah was terrific with the ball during England's first innings and ran through their top-order with a three-wicket haul.

Mohammed Siraj too bowled an impressive spell and picked up a four-wicket haul wreaking havoc on the hosts' lower-middle order. England were skittled out for a below-par 284 on Day 3 before the Indian batters posted 125/3 on the board in their second innings at stumps on Day 3 to extend the lead to 257 runs.

India lost opener Shubman Gill (4) and Hanuma Vihari (11) cheaply in their second innings before Cheteshwar Pujara steadied the ship for the visitors with a brilliant half-century. Speaking about India's domination in the game, Vaughan backed Bumrah &amp; Co. to win the game and clinch the five-match series 3-1.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-to-undergo-cardiovascular-test-to-determine-his-availability-for-t20i-series-opener-vs-eng-report-494300">Rohit to undergo cardiovascular test to determine his availability for T20I series opener vs ENG: Report</a>

"A 257-run lead is a long way now for England to go and chase. India gets another 150 and it's 400, which I think it will be, there is odd bounce, spin will come into play and that might be when Shami gets his reward," Vaughan said on&nbsp;Cricbuzz.

"Give me a Pujara in my Test team any day of the week. As much as you are scared of Pant, Pujara is the kind of glue that every single team needs to frustrate and wear down the bowlers," added the former England captain as he lauded Pujara for his valiant knock in the second innings.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-wont-be-shutting-up-jonny-bairstow-opens-up-on-verbal-duel-with-virat-kohli-in-edgbaston-test-494256">'We won't be shutting up...' - Jonny Bairstow opens up on verbal duel with Virat Kohli in Edgbaston Test</a>

India will be hoping to capitalise and extend their lead beyond the 400-run mark on Day 4 of the Test match on Monday (July 04). Vaughan believes India are absolute favourites to win the game and he sees nothing but Bumrah &amp; Co. winning the Edgbaston Test. India are leading the five-match series 2-1 from last year as the fifth and final game had been postponed due to COVID-19.

"I think the four seamers will do some damage inside the first 25 overs. There will certainly be movement there. This is the difference from playing against New Zealand to what they are playing against India. I feel the tactics have not been quite right in the field. A few of the old traits have returned when they are facing real quality. I see nothing but an India win," said Vaughan.

India are currently in a strong position in the ongoing fifth Test against England at Edgbaston in Birmingham after amassing a 257-run lead at stumps on Day 3. India rode on impressive centuries from Ravindra Jadeja and Rishabh Pant to post a big total of 416 runs in their first innings before bundling out the hosts for 284 runs in their first innings to gain a healthy lead.

India are currently in a strong position in the ongoing fifth Test against England at Edgbaston in Birmingham after amassing a 257-run lead at stumps on Day 3. India rode on impressive centuries from Ravindra Jadeja and Rishabh Pant to post a big total of 416 runs in their first innings before bundling out the hosts for 284 runs in their first innings to gain a healthy lead. India have dominated the proceedings so far in the rescheduled fifth Test under stand-in skipper Jasprit Bumrah in the absence of regular captain Rohit Sharma. After playing a sensational cameo of 31 runs with the bat, Bumrah was terrific with the ball during England's first innings and ran through their top-order with a three-wicket haul. Mohammed Siraj too bowled an impressive spell and picked up a four-wicket haul wreaking havoc on the hosts' lower-middle order. England were skittled out for a below-par 284 on Day 3 before the Indian batters posted 125/3 on the board in their second innings at stumps on Day 3 to extend the lead to 257 runs. India lost opener Shubman Gill (4) and Hanuma Vihari (11) cheaply in their second innings before Cheteshwar Pujara steadied the ship for the visitors with a brilliant half-century. Speaking about India's domination in the game, Vaughan backed Bumrah & Co. to win the game and clinch the five-match series 3-1. Also Read: Rohit to undergo cardiovascular test to determine his availability for T20I series opener vs ENG: Report "A 257-run lead is a long way now for England to go and chase. India gets another 150 and it's 400, which I think it will be, there is odd bounce, spin will come into play and that might be when Shami gets his reward," Vaughan said on Cricbuzz. "Give me a Pujara in my Test team any day of the week. As much as you are scared of Pant, Pujara is the kind of glue that every single team needs to frustrate and wear down the bowlers," added the former England captain as he lauded Pujara for his valiant knock in the second innings. Also Read: 'We won't be shutting up...' - Jonny Bairstow opens up on verbal duel with Virat Kohli in Edgbaston Test India will be hoping to capitalise and extend their lead beyond the 400-run mark on Day 4 of the Test match on Monday (July 04). Vaughan believes India are absolute favourites to win the game and he sees nothing but Bumrah & Co. winning the Edgbaston Test. India are leading the five-match series 2-1 from last year as the fifth and final game had been postponed due to COVID-19. "I think the four seamers will do some damage inside the first 25 overs. There will certainly be movement there. This is the difference from playing against New Zealand to what they are playing against India. I feel the tactics have not been quite right in the field. A few of the old traits have returned when they are facing real quality. I see nothing but an India win," said Vaughan.

'I see nothing but an India win': Michael Vaughan backs Jasprit Bumrah & Co. to clinch series against England

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

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

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

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

Virat Kohli-led India&nbsp;(IND) will take on Eoin Morgan-led England&nbsp;(ENG) in a warm-up game ahead of the Super 12 stages of the T20 World Cup 2021 on Monday&nbsp;(October 18). The game will be played at the ICC Academy Ground, Dubai.

Before the tournament, both India and England will play two warm-up matches. While&nbsp;India will play England and Australia in their respective warm-up matches,&nbsp;England will play India and New Zealand.

MS Dhoni, who just won his fourth IPL title with CSK, has joined the Indian team as a mentor. The match&nbsp;will be a great&nbsp;practice for both the teams to try out new options in batting and bowling line-up before the tournament starts.

It will also give India a chance to test their best combination and ensure they pick the right players for the big game against Pakistan on October 24.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-ms-dhoni-joins-team-india-camp-as-virat-kohli-co-begin-preparations-see-pics-421619">T20 WC: MS Dhoni joins Team India camp as Virat Kohli &amp; Co. begin preparations - see pics</a>

Let's take a look at the means on how to live stream or view the match: 

Where is the T20 World Cup warm-up match between India vs England taking place?

The T20 World Cup warm-up match between India vs England will take place at the ICC Academy Ground, Dubai.

What time does the T20 World Cup warm-up match between India vs England begin?

The T20 World Cup warm-up match between India vs England begins at 7:30 PM IST on Monday.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-to-be-the-1st-player-to-be-kept-by-csk-if-retentions-are-allowed-ahead-of-ipl-mega-auction-report-421442">MS Dhoni to be the 1st player to be kept by CSK if retentions are allowed ahead of IPL mega auction&nbsp;</a>

Where and how to watch live coverage of the T20 World Cup warm-up match between India vs England?

The T20 World Cup warm-up match between India vs England will be aired live on Star Sports channels - Star Sports 1, Star Sports 2, Star Sports 3, Star Sports 3 HD and DD Sports. The online streaming of the T20 World Cup match between IND vs ENG will be available on Hotstar.

Virat Kohli-led India (IND) will take on Eoin Morgan-led England (ENG) in a warm-up game ahead of the Super 12 stages of the T20 World Cup 2021 on Monday (October 18).

Virat Kohli-led India (IND) will take on Eoin Morgan-led England (ENG) in a warm-up game ahead of the Super 12 stages of the T20 World Cup 2021 on Monday (October 18). The game will be played at the ICC Academy Ground, Dubai. Before the tournament, both India and England will play two warm-up matches. While India will play England and Australia in their respective warm-up matches, England will play India and New Zealand. MS Dhoni, who just won his fourth IPL title with CSK, has joined the Indian team as a mentor. The match will be a great practice for both the teams to try out new options in batting and bowling line-up before the tournament starts. It will also give India a chance to test their best combination and ensure they pick the right players for the big game against Pakistan on October 24. ALSO READ: T20 WC: MS Dhoni joins Team India camp as Virat Kohli & Co. begin preparations - see pics Let's take a look at the means on how to live stream or view the match: Where is the T20 World Cup warm-up match between India vs England taking place? The T20 World Cup warm-up match between India vs England will take place at the ICC Academy Ground, Dubai. What time does the T20 World Cup warm-up match between India vs England begin? The T20 World Cup warm-up match between India vs England begins at 7:30 PM IST on Monday. Also Read: MS Dhoni to be the 1st player to be kept by CSK if retentions are allowed ahead of IPL mega auction Where and how to watch live coverage of the T20 World Cup warm-up match between India vs England? The T20 World Cup warm-up match between India vs England will be aired live on Star Sports channels - Star Sports 1, Star Sports 2, Star Sports 3, Star Sports 3 HD and DD Sports. The online streaming of the T20 World Cup match between IND vs ENG will be available on Hotstar.

T20 World Cup, IND vs ENG live streaming: When and where to watch India vs England warm-up match?

Several former England cricketers like Michael Vaughan and Steve Harmison have openly criticised the IPL schedule being the reason behind Indian cricketers' decision to not take the field that resulted in the fifth Test being cancelled.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-bilateral-cricket-ties-resume-between-india-and-pakistan-pcb-chairman-ramiz-raja-gives-big-update-412951" hreflang="en">Will bilateral cricket ties resume between India and Pakistan? PCB chairman Ramiz Raja gives big update</a>

Now, another former English cricketer has fired shots at the Indian cricketers, the BCCI and the IPL. Paul Newman said that the Indian players did not want to take the field because they risked missing IPL.&nbsp;

"There is no way this series decider would have been called off on the morning of the first day had the majority of India’s players not been flying to Dubai next Wednesday for the resumption of the richest tournament in cricket.

"No India player with an IPL contract wanted to risk playing in this Test, then testing positive and being forced to stay in England for another 10 days, so missing the restart of the tournament in the UAE on September 19," Newman, who has played 135 first-class matches and 177 List A games, wrote in his column for the Daily Mail.

"The positive PCR test of Yogesh Parmar was the trigger India’s players needed to up sticks and get out of here as soon as possible even after they had all returned negative tests themselves en masse on Thursday evening.

"There really should have been no reason why they could not play on once those test results were returned. That is the criterion that has governed every game this season as cricket continues to navigate the complex Covid world. Why should that change now?

"India did not respect this series in pulling out yesterday and they did not respect Test cricket either in flouting Covid guidelines ahead of the fourth Test," he added.

He also fired shots at head coach Ravi Shastri criticising his book launch event before fourth Test, after which Shastri tested positive for COVID-19.&nbsp;

"This whole outbreak in their camp could well have been started by the presence of Shastri along with captain Virat Kohli and several players and staff at a book launch at a London hotel attended by more than 150 people two days before the Oval Test.

"It was a breach of protocols that privately angered those at the ECB who have done so much to keep the show on the road in the last 18 months, not least with three Tests at Old Trafford last year that salvaged millions of pounds of revenue for the game. What a way for Lancashire to be rewarded for all they did then," he said.

Several former England cricketers like Michael Vaughan and Steve Harmison have openly criticised the IPL schedule being the reason behind Indian cricketers' decision to not take the field that resulted in the fifth Test being cancelled.

Several former England cricketers like Michael Vaughan and Steve Harmison have openly criticised the IPL schedule being the reason behind Indian cricketers' decision to not take the field that resulted in the fifth Test being cancelled. ALSO READ: Will bilateral cricket ties resume between India and Pakistan? PCB chairman Ramiz Raja gives big update Now, another former English cricketer has fired shots at the Indian cricketers, the BCCI and the IPL. Paul Newman said that the Indian players did not want to take the field because they risked missing IPL. "There is no way this series decider would have been called off on the morning of the first day had the majority of India’s players not been flying to Dubai next Wednesday for the resumption of the richest tournament in cricket. "No India player with an IPL contract wanted to risk playing in this Test, then testing positive and being forced to stay in England for another 10 days, so missing the restart of the tournament in the UAE on September 19," Newman, who has played 135 first-class matches and 177 List A games, wrote in his column for the Daily Mail. "The positive PCR test of Yogesh Parmar was the trigger India’s players needed to up sticks and get out of here as soon as possible even after they had all returned negative tests themselves en masse on Thursday evening. "There really should have been no reason why they could not play on once those test results were returned. That is the criterion that has governed every game this season as cricket continues to navigate the complex Covid world. Why should that change now? "India did not respect this series in pulling out yesterday and they did not respect Test cricket either in flouting Covid guidelines ahead of the fourth Test," he added. He also fired shots at head coach Ravi Shastri criticising his book launch event before fourth Test, after which Shastri tested positive for COVID-19. "This whole outbreak in their camp could well have been started by the presence of Shastri along with captain Virat Kohli and several players and staff at a book launch at a London hotel attended by more than 150 people two days before the Oval Test. "It was a breach of protocols that privately angered those at the ECB who have done so much to keep the show on the road in the last 18 months, not least with three Tests at Old Trafford last year that salvaged millions of pounds of revenue for the game. What a way for Lancashire to be rewarded for all they did then," he said.

'No India player with an IPL contract wanted to risk playing', says Paul Newman

Several former England cricketers like Michael Vaughan and Steve Harmison have openly criticised the IPL schedule being the reason behind Indian cricketers' decision to not take the field that resulted in the fifth Test being cancelled.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-test-skipper-paine-to-undergo-surgery-on-tuesday-expects-to-return-to-training-in-oct-412765" hreflang="en">Australia Test skipper Paine to undergo surgery on Tuesday, expects to return to training in Oct</a>

Now, former England cricketer David Gower has claimed what had happened between Indian captain Virat Kohli and the BCCI a day before the final Test between India and England.&nbsp;

"Wow! No one, least of all I, saw that coming. It leads us into unprecedented territories. I mean I know other matches have been abandoned… sometimes a few balls bowled and various other circumstances but to have the thing called off at the last moment – Virat Kohli e-mailed the BCCI at midnight the day before – the whole sequence of events needs explaining a little bit better," Gower told Cricket.com

"I was up there on the first morning on my way to watch Day 1 to enjoy some cricket, talk to people about the game to talk about the hospitality. But by the time I got there, of course, the situation had rather changed."

Several Indian stars like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have already arrived in UAE for the upcoming Indian Premier League.&nbsp;

"The worrying thing for me is this: If the IPL was so very closely linked to this, then that to me is very disappointing because… I mean sound old, crusty, but for all those people like me and dare I say, Virat… the last time he was in England, he made a big point about how important Test match cricket is to him… So, for all of us who like Test cricket and value it as the best part of the game, to see a Test abandoned like this was tragic," Gower added.

"Over the next days and week, more things would emerge. One or two things we haven't heard so far might come out to the public ears. But it does seem by the way that the Indian players have high-tailed out of town so quickly, already in the UAE preparing for the IPL. Maybe you can argue that it is sensible given the circumstances. It gives them the best chance to be part of it. But maybe that suggests that the IPL and cancellation were linked. There were some private things said between the Indian team and Indian board."

Several former England cricketers like Michael Vaughan and Steve Harmison have openly criticised the IPL schedule being the reason behind Indian cricketers' decision to not take the field that resulted in the fifth Test being cancelled. ALSO READ: Australia Test skipper Paine to undergo surgery on Tuesday, expects to return to training in Oct Now, former England cricketer David Gower has claimed what had happened between Indian captain Virat Kohli and the BCCI a day before the final Test between India and England. "Wow! No one, least of all I, saw that coming. It leads us into unprecedented territories. I mean I know other matches have been abandoned… sometimes a few balls bowled and various other circumstances but to have the thing called off at the last moment – Virat Kohli e-mailed the BCCI at midnight the day before – the whole sequence of events needs explaining a little bit better," Gower told Cricket.com "I was up there on the first morning on my way to watch Day 1 to enjoy some cricket, talk to people about the game to talk about the hospitality. But by the time I got there, of course, the situation had rather changed." Several Indian stars like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have already arrived in UAE for the upcoming Indian Premier League. "The worrying thing for me is this: If the IPL was so very closely linked to this, then that to me is very disappointing because… I mean sound old, crusty, but for all those people like me and dare I say, Virat… the last time he was in England, he made a big point about how important Test match cricket is to him… So, for all of us who like Test cricket and value it as the best part of the game, to see a Test abandoned like this was tragic," Gower added. "Over the next days and week, more things would emerge. One or two things we haven't heard so far might come out to the public ears. But it does seem by the way that the Indian players have high-tailed out of town so quickly, already in the UAE preparing for the IPL. Maybe you can argue that it is sensible given the circumstances. It gives them the best chance to be part of it. But maybe that suggests that the IPL and cancellation were linked. There were some private things said between the Indian team and Indian board."

'Virat Kohli e-mailed the BCCI at midnight the day before 5th Test', says former England cricketer

Former England skipper Nasser Hussain defended Team India and said that they were not to be blamed for the cancellation of the fifth and final Test against England at the Old Trafford in Manchester.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-sherfane-rutherford-replaces-jonny-bairstow-in-sunrisers-hyderabads-squad-412427" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: Sherfane Rutherford replaces Jonny Bairstow in Sunrisers Hyderabad's squad</a>

Several former England cricketers like Michael Vaughan and Steve Harmison have openly criticised the IPL schedule being the reason behind Indian cricketers' decision to not take the field.&nbsp;

However, Hussain wrote a column in Daily Mail and said that the Indian team and BCCI are not the villains here. "The people I felt most sorry for during Friday's extra-ordinary turn of events were a group in our game who habitually deserve more respect - the fans - and the villain of the piece was not India but cricket’s relentless schedule," Hussain wrote.

"On Friday afternoon, I boarded a train south full of gutted supporters. Hours earlier, some poor bloke from Edinburgh came up to me at the ground and asked me for a photograph. He faced a long journey home.

"Spectators are always the last people we think about. Slow over-rates and going off early for bad light when there are floodlights is one thing. This is quite another.

"Sure, they will get their money back but they will not get to see any action, will not be reimbursed for travel and accommodation and are missing out on what might have been a thrilling conclusion to a fabulous series," he added.

"This was a complete and utter mess. Unfortunately, though, it is where we are in the world of cricket right now due to a packed schedule and the elephant in the room that is the Indian Premier League.

"As soon as Covid got into the tourists’ camp, some of the decision-making was about that tournament, and it is worth remembering that India have always been wary about the positioning of this Test match so close to it," he said.&nbsp;

Former England skipper Nasser Hussain defended Team India and said that they were not to be blamed for the cancellation of the fifth and final Test against England at the Old Trafford in Manchester.

Former England skipper Nasser Hussain defended Team India and said that they were not to be blamed for the cancellation of the fifth and final Test against England at the Old Trafford in Manchester. ALSO READ: IPL 2021: Sherfane Rutherford replaces Jonny Bairstow in Sunrisers Hyderabad's squad Several former England cricketers like Michael Vaughan and Steve Harmison have openly criticised the IPL schedule being the reason behind Indian cricketers' decision to not take the field. However, Hussain wrote a column in Daily Mail and said that the Indian team and BCCI are not the villains here. "The people I felt most sorry for during Friday's extra-ordinary turn of events were a group in our game who habitually deserve more respect - the fans - and the villain of the piece was not India but cricket’s relentless schedule," Hussain wrote. "On Friday afternoon, I boarded a train south full of gutted supporters. Hours earlier, some poor bloke from Edinburgh came up to me at the ground and asked me for a photograph. He faced a long journey home. "Spectators are always the last people we think about. Slow over-rates and going off early for bad light when there are floodlights is one thing. This is quite another. "Sure, they will get their money back but they will not get to see any action, will not be reimbursed for travel and accommodation and are missing out on what might have been a thrilling conclusion to a fabulous series," he added. "This was a complete and utter mess. Unfortunately, though, it is where we are in the world of cricket right now due to a packed schedule and the elephant in the room that is the Indian Premier League. "As soon as Covid got into the tourists’ camp, some of the decision-making was about that tournament, and it is worth remembering that India have always been wary about the positioning of this Test match so close to it," he said.

'Villain was not India but cricket’s relentless schedule': Nasser Hussain on cancelled 5th Test

Former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar has given his take on BCCI's offer to ECB on rescheduling the fifth Test between India and England that was called off citing COVID-19 fears.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/they-are-tired-dinesh-karthik-reveals-conversation-with-indian-cricketers-412274" hreflang="en">'They are tired': Dinesh Karthik reveals conversation with Indian cricketers</a>

The batting legend took an example of 2008 England's tour to India when Kevin Pietersen and Co. decided to fly back to UK midway due to the terror attacks of 26/11 that took place in Mumbai. However, the English side came back the very next month to resume the two-match Test series.&nbsp;

"We as Indians should never forget that the England team came back after the horrific attacks of 2008. They would have been perfectly entitled to say 'we are not comfortable to come back'.

"So, we should never forget that Kevin Pietersen led the team and he was the main man. If KP had said 'no I don't want to go' that would have been the end of the tour. It was because KP convinced the others that the team came and we had that fantastic Test match in Chennai where India chased down 380 on Day 5 to win," Gavaskar said on Sony Sports Network.

The second Test of the 2008 series was shifted to Chennai from Mumbai.&nbsp;

"That gesture of the ECB must be remembered," Gavaskar said.

The fifth Test between India and England was called off over COVID-19 fears. The match was predicted to go as planned after all Team India players tested negative in the PCR results. However, players expressed their concerns over playing at Old Trafford after India's second physio, Yogesh Parmar, tested positive for Covid-19 on Thursday.&nbsp;

"In lieu of the strong relationship between BCCI and ECB, the BCCI has offered to ECB a rescheduling of the cancelled Test match. Both the Boards will work towards finding a window to reschedule this Test match," the BCCI said in a statement.

Former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar has given his take on BCCI's offer to ECB on rescheduling the fifth Test between India and England that was called off citing COVID-19 fears.

Former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar has given his take on BCCI's offer to ECB on rescheduling the fifth Test between India and England that was called off citing COVID-19 fears. ALSO READ: 'They are tired': Dinesh Karthik reveals conversation with Indian cricketers The batting legend took an example of 2008 England's tour to India when Kevin Pietersen and Co. decided to fly back to UK midway due to the terror attacks of 26/11 that took place in Mumbai. However, the English side came back the very next month to resume the two-match Test series. "We as Indians should never forget that the England team came back after the horrific attacks of 2008. They would have been perfectly entitled to say 'we are not comfortable to come back'. "So, we should never forget that Kevin Pietersen led the team and he was the main man. If KP had said 'no I don't want to go' that would have been the end of the tour. It was because KP convinced the others that the team came and we had that fantastic Test match in Chennai where India chased down 380 on Day 5 to win," Gavaskar said on Sony Sports Network. The second Test of the 2008 series was shifted to Chennai from Mumbai. "That gesture of the ECB must be remembered," Gavaskar said. The fifth Test between India and England was called off over COVID-19 fears. The match was predicted to go as planned after all Team India players tested negative in the PCR results. However, players expressed their concerns over playing at Old Trafford after India's second physio, Yogesh Parmar, tested positive for Covid-19 on Thursday. "In lieu of the strong relationship between BCCI and ECB, the BCCI has offered to ECB a rescheduling of the cancelled Test match. Both the Boards will work towards finding a window to reschedule this Test match," the BCCI said in a statement.

'Indians should never forget England's gesture after 26/11', says Sunil Gavaskar

Wicketkeeper Dinesh Karthik revealed that he spoke to a few of the Indian players currently in England after the fifth match between India and England was called off after few cricketers from the visiting team were reluctant to take the field due to COVID-19 scare.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indians-should-never-forget-englands-gesture-after-2611-says-sunil-gavaskar-412238" hreflang="en">'Indians should never forget England's gesture after 26/11', says Sunil Gavaskar</a>

"I spoke to a few of the guys (Indian players). Almost all games have gone down the wire, they are tired and they have only one physio right now.

"They had two, but before this one went down along with the chief coach, another couple of the coaches, so they had one physio, so they've done a lot of work with that man. And now he tests positive. Now, that is the problem," Karthik told Sky Sports.

The fifth Test between India and England was called off over COVID-19 fears. The match was predicted to go as planned after all Team India players tested negative in the PCR results. However, players expressed their concerns over playing at Old Trafford after India's second physio, Yogesh Parmar, tested positive for Covid-19 on Thursday.&nbsp;

"If it was somebody else, somebody was helping you know in terms of logistics and all that they wouldn't be this afraid but when this person got it, the physio, I think that's when they got the jitters a little bit," he added.

Karthik even added that the few days left for resumption of IPL 2021 made players more reluctant.&nbsp;

"You also have to understand, as soon as this finishes, they have the IPL soon after that the World Cup, and soon after that the New Zealand series and we are talking about literally one-week turnarounds," Karthik said.

"How many bubbles can they do? When they left, when they assembled in India on May 16 it's almost four months. That's a lot of time already."

"Let's take an example for today, most of the guys today haven't even slept till 2.30-3 in the morning because they don't know if they have to be ready for the match, they don't know because you know it's very late in India, so they don't know if they're going to be able to speak to ECB those kinds of discussions were gone.

"So most of them haven't even slept till 3 O'clock so the Test match happening today was out of question almost. It's whether they can delay it further, but you have to remember that there is a good chance that in the RT-PCR test three days later, someone could test positive and if he's in the playing 11, then what happens to that person," he said.

"Is he going to spread it around? Is he this super spreader for that point of time, that puts every other player in jeopardy, and then they have to stay 10 days in England then what happens to the IPL, which is supposed to start four days after they land in Dubai...

"...So it has so many other questions, it's not necessary that they've tested negative today means that two days later they will test negative again. Even if it is one person who does test positive, then that puts the whole thing into another different dimension," said Karthik.

Wicketkeeper Dinesh Karthik revealed that he spoke to a few of the Indian players currently in England after the fifth match between India and England was called off after few cricketers from the visiting team were reluctant to take the field due to COVID-19 scare.

Wicketkeeper Dinesh Karthik revealed that he spoke to a few of the Indian players currently in England after the fifth match between India and England was called off after few cricketers from the visiting team were reluctant to take the field due to COVID-19 scare. ALSO READ: 'Indians should never forget England's gesture after 26/11', says Sunil Gavaskar "I spoke to a few of the guys (Indian players). Almost all games have gone down the wire, they are tired and they have only one physio right now. "They had two, but before this one went down along with the chief coach, another couple of the coaches, so they had one physio, so they've done a lot of work with that man. And now he tests positive. Now, that is the problem," Karthik told Sky Sports. The fifth Test between India and England was called off over COVID-19 fears. The match was predicted to go as planned after all Team India players tested negative in the PCR results. However, players expressed their concerns over playing at Old Trafford after India's second physio, Yogesh Parmar, tested positive for Covid-19 on Thursday. "If it was somebody else, somebody was helping you know in terms of logistics and all that they wouldn't be this afraid but when this person got it, the physio, I think that's when they got the jitters a little bit," he added. Karthik even added that the few days left for resumption of IPL 2021 made players more reluctant. "You also have to understand, as soon as this finishes, they have the IPL soon after that the World Cup, and soon after that the New Zealand series and we are talking about literally one-week turnarounds," Karthik said. "How many bubbles can they do? When they left, when they assembled in India on May 16 it's almost four months. That's a lot of time already." "Let's take an example for today, most of the guys today haven't even slept till 2.30-3 in the morning because they don't know if they have to be ready for the match, they don't know because you know it's very late in India, so they don't know if they're going to be able to speak to ECB those kinds of discussions were gone. "So most of them haven't even slept till 3 O'clock so the Test match happening today was out of question almost. It's whether they can delay it further, but you have to remember that there is a good chance that in the RT-PCR test three days later, someone could test positive and if he's in the playing 11, then what happens to that person," he said. "Is he going to spread it around? Is he this super spreader for that point of time, that puts every other player in jeopardy, and then they have to stay 10 days in England then what happens to the IPL, which is supposed to start four days after they land in Dubai... "...So it has so many other questions, it's not necessary that they've tested negative today means that two days later they will test negative again. Even if it is one person who does test positive, then that puts the whole thing into another different dimension," said Karthik.

'They are tired': Dinesh Karthik reveals conversation with Indian cricketers

The fifth Test between India and England has been called off due to fears of COVID-19 after cases emerged in Team India's camp.&nbsp;

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) released a statement on their official website regarding the fifth Test match.&nbsp;

The statement read: "Following ongoing conversations with the BCCI, the ECB can confirm that the fifth LV= Insurance Test between England and India Men due to start today at Emirates Old Trafford, will be cancelled."

"Due to fears of a further increase in the number of COVID cases inside the camp, India are regrettably unable to field a team."&nbsp;

"We send our sincere apologies to fans and partners for this news, which we know will cause immense disappointment and inconvenience to many," it concluded.&nbsp;

Players expressed their concerns over playing at the Old Trafford after India's second physio, Yogesh Parmar, tested positive for Covid-19 on Thursday.&nbsp;

The match was predicted to go as planned after all Team India players tested negative in the PCR results.&nbsp;

Following Parmar's positive result, there were speculations that the fifth and final Test will now not go on as planned, however, the scenario has changed after no further positive cases came out from the Indian camp in the PCR results.&nbsp;

India were up by 2-1 in the five-match series, however, after the cancellation, the scoreline remains uncertain.&nbsp;

The fifth Test between India and England has been called off due to fears of COVID-19 after cases emerged in Team India's camp. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) released a statement on their official website regarding the fifth Test match.

The fifth Test between India and England has been called off due to fears of COVID-19 after cases emerged in Team India's camp. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) released a statement on their official website regarding the fifth Test match. The statement read: "Following ongoing conversations with the BCCI, the ECB can confirm that the fifth LV= Insurance Test between England and India Men due to start today at Emirates Old Trafford, will be cancelled." "Due to fears of a further increase in the number of COVID cases inside the camp, India are regrettably unable to field a team." "We send our sincere apologies to fans and partners for this news, which we know will cause immense disappointment and inconvenience to many," it concluded. Players expressed their concerns over playing at the Old Trafford after India's second physio, Yogesh Parmar, tested positive for Covid-19 on Thursday. The match was predicted to go as planned after all Team India players tested negative in the PCR results. Following Parmar's positive result, there were speculations that the fifth and final Test will now not go on as planned, however, the scenario has changed after no further positive cases came out from the Indian camp in the PCR results. India were up by 2-1 in the five-match series, however, after the cancellation, the scoreline remains uncertain.

Fifth Test between India and England called off over COVID-19 concerns

The final Test match of the five-match series between India and England was scheduled to begin on Friday, however, as per the new developments, Day 1 has been postponed.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/how-rohit-sharmas-backing-led-to-r-ashwins-inclusion-in-virat-kohli-led-indias-t20-world-cup-squad-reports-412041" hreflang="en">How Rohit Sharma's backing led to R Ashwin's inclusion in Virat Kohli-led India's T20 World Cup squad: Reports</a>

A report by Cricbuzz said that Indian players wrote a letter to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) voicing their concerns over playing at the Old Trafford after India's second physio, Yogesh Parmar, tested positive for Covid-19 on Thursday.&nbsp;

When will the match begin and if it will get cancelled or postponed still remains uncertain.&nbsp;

The match was predicted to go as planned after all Team India players tested negative in the PCR results.&nbsp;

Following Parmar's positive result, there were speculations that the fifth and final Test will now not go on as planned, however, the scenario has changed after no further positive cases came out from the Indian camp in the PCR results.&nbsp;

For the unversed, the Indian team is already short of its support staff, with head coach Ravi Shastri, bowling coach Bharat Arun and fielding coach R Sridhar being ruled out of the final Test, in Old Trafford, Manchester, following positive results during The Oval Test, London.&nbsp;

As for Parmar, he had taken over after lead physio Nitin Patel was forced to self-isolation during the fourth and penultimate after being identified as a close contact of Shastri.&nbsp;

The final Test match of the five-match series between India and England was scheduled to begin on Friday, however, as per the new developments, Day 1 has been postponed.

The final Test match of the five-match series between India and England was scheduled to begin on Friday, however, as per the new developments, Day 1 has been postponed. ALSO READ: How Rohit Sharma's backing led to R Ashwin's inclusion in Virat Kohli-led India's T20 World Cup squad: Reports A report by Cricbuzz said that Indian players wrote a letter to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) voicing their concerns over playing at the Old Trafford after India's second physio, Yogesh Parmar, tested positive for Covid-19 on Thursday. When will the match begin and if it will get cancelled or postponed still remains uncertain. The match was predicted to go as planned after all Team India players tested negative in the PCR results. Following Parmar's positive result, there were speculations that the fifth and final Test will now not go on as planned, however, the scenario has changed after no further positive cases came out from the Indian camp in the PCR results. For the unversed, the Indian team is already short of its support staff, with head coach Ravi Shastri, bowling coach Bharat Arun and fielding coach R Sridhar being ruled out of the final Test, in Old Trafford, Manchester, following positive results during The Oval Test, London. As for Parmar, he had taken over after lead physio Nitin Patel was forced to self-isolation during the fourth and penultimate after being identified as a close contact of Shastri.

Day 1 of the fifth Test match between India and England set to be deferred: Reports

Team India will high on confidence after taking an unassailable lead in the five-match series after thrashing hosts England in the fourth Test at the Oval. Virat and Co. will take on Joe Root's England in the fifth Test that will take place in Manchester.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-5th-test-another-member-of-indias-support-staff-tests-positive-for-covid-19-reports-411850">Another member of India's support staff tests positive for Covid-19: Reports</a>

England will be looking to bounce back and end the series levelled to spare the embarrassment, whereas, Team India will be placing its best playing XI for securing atleast a draw to take the Pataudi Trophy home and winning a crucial away win that will help them in the World Test Championship.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-returns-all-you-need-to-know-about-captain-cools-new-role-as-team-indias-mentor-for-t20-world-cup-411808" hreflang="en">EXPLAINED | All about MS Dhoni's new role as Team India's mentor</a>

Team India might tweak their playing XI in order to take their in-form players forward. India's vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane is struggling with the bat currently. Despite his knock of 61 runs at Lord's, Rahane has failed to score for the Men in Blue.&nbsp;

With options like Suryakumar Yadav and Prithvi Shaw, India could witness a change in its batting order. In the bowling department, Ravichandran Ashwin could feature in the fifth and final Test against England. With the pace department looking really strong, Ravindra Jadeja could lose his spot for Ravichandran Ashwin to come in.&nbsp;

India's Predicted Playing XI: Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane/Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Ravichandran Ashwin, Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Shami, Umesh Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah

Team India will high on confidence after taking an unassailable lead in the five-match series after thrashing hosts England in the fourth Test at the Oval. Virat and Co.

Team India will high on confidence after taking an unassailable lead in the five-match series after thrashing hosts England in the fourth Test at the Oval. Virat and Co. will take on Joe Root's England in the fifth Test that will take place in Manchester. ALSO READ: Another member of India's support staff tests positive for Covid-19: Reports England will be looking to bounce back and end the series levelled to spare the embarrassment, whereas, Team India will be placing its best playing XI for securing atleast a draw to take the Pataudi Trophy home and winning a crucial away win that will help them in the World Test Championship. ALSO READ: EXPLAINED | All about MS Dhoni's new role as Team India's mentor Team India might tweak their playing XI in order to take their in-form players forward. India's vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane is struggling with the bat currently. Despite his knock of 61 runs at Lord's, Rahane has failed to score for the Men in Blue. With options like Suryakumar Yadav and Prithvi Shaw, India could witness a change in its batting order. In the bowling department, Ravichandran Ashwin could feature in the fifth and final Test against England. With the pace department looking really strong, Ravindra Jadeja could lose his spot for Ravichandran Ashwin to come in. India's Predicted Playing XI: Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane/Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Ravichandran Ashwin, Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Shami, Umesh Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah

IND vs ENG, 5th Test: Virat and Co.'s predicted XI, will Ravichandran Ashwin return?

Former England skipper Michael Vaughan defended Indian captain Virat Kohli's trumpet gesture and said that he saw nothing wrong with it.&nbsp;

The Indian skipper is known for expressing his heart out on the field, he vents when he is angry, he celebrates when the team does well. One such incident happened during the final day of the fourth Test as Virat was spotted blowing a trumpet at the Barmy Army in the air while celebrating England's fall of wickets.&nbsp;

"Virat Kohli is an incredible leader. He's just got this buzz of energy. He was taking the p*** out of the Barmy Army with these trumpet signs," Vaughan told Fox Sports.

"I love it. We don't have enough characters in the game and mimicking the crowd, trying to get his own supporters going. When they came out after lunch he was getting them going. It was like he was at the end of the long jump in the Olympics trying to get the crowd going. He's an amazing character and yesterday he gave a tactical masterclass on how to win a Test match," said Vaughan.

Earlier, former Indian cricketer, Wasim Jaffer has defended the skipper Virat Kohli over his viral celebration.&nbsp;

Jaffer re-tweeted a post of Fox Sports that stated Virat's celebration as "classless". While "fixing" that headline, Jaffer wrote, "Captain Courageous: World applauds as Virat Kohli's team brings dead game to life and scripts historic win."&nbsp;

Former England skipper Michael Vaughan defended Indian captain Virat Kohli's trumpet gesture and said that he saw nothing wrong with it. The Indian skipper is known for expressing his heart out on the field, he vents when he is angry, he celebrates when the team does well.

Former England skipper Michael Vaughan defended Indian captain Virat Kohli's trumpet gesture and said that he saw nothing wrong with it. The Indian skipper is known for expressing his heart out on the field, he vents when he is angry, he celebrates when the team does well. One such incident happened during the final day of the fourth Test as Virat was spotted blowing a trumpet at the Barmy Army in the air while celebrating England's fall of wickets. "Virat Kohli is an incredible leader. He's just got this buzz of energy. He was taking the p*** out of the Barmy Army with these trumpet signs," Vaughan told Fox Sports. "I love it. We don't have enough characters in the game and mimicking the crowd, trying to get his own supporters going. When they came out after lunch he was getting them going. It was like he was at the end of the long jump in the Olympics trying to get the crowd going. He's an amazing character and yesterday he gave a tactical masterclass on how to win a Test match," said Vaughan. Earlier, former Indian cricketer, Wasim Jaffer has defended the skipper Virat Kohli over his viral celebration. Jaffer re-tweeted a post of Fox Sports that stated Virat's celebration as "classless". While "fixing" that headline, Jaffer wrote, "Captain Courageous: World applauds as Virat Kohli's team brings dead game to life and scripts historic win."

'He's an amazing character': Michael Vaughan defends Virat Kohli's trumpet celebrations

On March 15, Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah tied the knot with sports presenter Sanjana Ganesan leaving many surprised as many were not aware of their relationship.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-ecstatic-virat-kohli-celebrates-rohit-sharmas-ton-against-england-his-reaction-goes-viral-410742" hreflang="en">Watch: Ecstatic Virat Kohli celebrates Rohit Sharma's ton against England, his reaction goes viral</a>

The duo got married in a private affair in Goa. Bumrah, along with Sanjana, are currently in England for the ongoing five-match Test series.

Now, in a chat with Dinesh Karthik on Sky Sports, Bumrah revealed how his relationship between him and Sanjana started.&nbsp;

“I had obviously seen her a lot of times but we had the same problem with each other. She thought I was really arrogant, I thought she was really arrogant so we never really spoke. I spoke to her for the first time during the 2019 World Cup when she was here covering the event. We became friends and started talking a lot. It’s been good, we have been married for five months now, so yeah very happy,” Bumrah said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-england-rohit-sharma-hits-century-as-india-take-control-of-oval-test-410739" hreflang="en">India vs England: Rohit Sharma hits century as India take control of Oval Test</a>

Bumrah added that the Sanjana's understanding of the game helps them have&nbsp;interesting conversations after matches.&nbsp;

“She understands the sport, she understands what the player goes through, so whenever things don’t go well or go well, we have a lot of interesting conversations, that really helps me. And, obviously, playing cricket and travelling all the time, you’ve got your wife with you now, so, you really have to focus on other things as well.

“You can switch off after the game. All these factors are really helpful and I’m really happy how this relationship has developed,” Bumrah further added.&nbsp;

On March 15, Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah tied the knot with sports presenter Sanjana Ganesan leaving many surprised as many were not aware of their relationship.

On March 15, Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah tied the knot with sports presenter Sanjana Ganesan leaving many surprised as many were not aware of their relationship. ALSO READ: Watch: Ecstatic Virat Kohli celebrates Rohit Sharma's ton against England, his reaction goes viral The duo got married in a private affair in Goa. Bumrah, along with Sanjana, are currently in England for the ongoing five-match Test series. Now, in a chat with Dinesh Karthik on Sky Sports, Bumrah revealed how his relationship between him and Sanjana started. “I had obviously seen her a lot of times but we had the same problem with each other. She thought I was really arrogant, I thought she was really arrogant so we never really spoke. I spoke to her for the first time during the 2019 World Cup when she was here covering the event. We became friends and started talking a lot. It’s been good, we have been married for five months now, so yeah very happy,” Bumrah said. ALSO READ: India vs England: Rohit Sharma hits century as India take control of Oval Test Bumrah added that the Sanjana's understanding of the game helps them have interesting conversations after matches. “She understands the sport, she understands what the player goes through, so whenever things don’t go well or go well, we have a lot of interesting conversations, that really helps me. And, obviously, playing cricket and travelling all the time, you’ve got your wife with you now, so, you really have to focus on other things as well. “You can switch off after the game. All these factors are really helpful and I’m really happy how this relationship has developed,” Bumrah further added.

'She thought I was arrogant, I thought she was arrogant': Jasprit Bumrah on wife Sanjana Ganesan

India's batting lineup witnessed yet another collapse against England's lethal bowling attack during the Day 1 of the fourth Test at the Oval.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-stand-as-the-team-that-everyone-wants-to-beat-says-virat-kohli-410215" hreflang="en">'We stand as the team that everyone wants to beat', says Virat Kohli</a>

Despite Shardul Thakur's last-minute heroics, the Men in Blue were bundled out for 191 runs.&nbsp;

The wrong foot technique was the reason behind the dismissal of Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul and Cheteshwar Pujara. Now, former Indian skipper Sunil Gavaskar was disappointed by the performance.&nbsp;

"You see the length that is being bowled and see where the batsmen are playing. They are so far committed to the front foot, it's very difficult for them to drop their bats. They just tend to sort of go for it. If you're on the backfoot just that little bit, you have that nano second to drop your wrists and let the ball go," Gavaskar said on The Sony Sports Network.

"You may look like an idiot but you'd still be batting. Whether you look like an idiot or look great, doesn't go down in the scorebooks. It's the number of runs you score. When you follow the ball like Pujara has been doing - he is committed to the front foot - you get yourself into trouble," Gavaskar pointed out.

England won the toss and chose to bowl. Chris Woakes and Ollie Robinson scalped 7 wickets and dismantled India's batting attack. &nbsp;

India's batting lineup witnessed yet another collapse against England's lethal bowling attack during the Day 1 of the fourth Test at the Oval. ALSO READ: 'We stand as the team that everyone wants to beat', says Virat Kohli Despite Shardul Thakur's last-minute heroics, the Men in Blue were bundled out for 191 runs.

India's batting lineup witnessed yet another collapse against England's lethal bowling attack during the Day 1 of the fourth Test at the Oval. ALSO READ: 'We stand as the team that everyone wants to beat', says Virat Kohli Despite Shardul Thakur's last-minute heroics, the Men in Blue were bundled out for 191 runs. The wrong foot technique was the reason behind the dismissal of Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul and Cheteshwar Pujara. Now, former Indian skipper Sunil Gavaskar was disappointed by the performance. "You see the length that is being bowled and see where the batsmen are playing. They are so far committed to the front foot, it's very difficult for them to drop their bats. They just tend to sort of go for it. If you're on the backfoot just that little bit, you have that nano second to drop your wrists and let the ball go," Gavaskar said on The Sony Sports Network. "You may look like an idiot but you'd still be batting. Whether you look like an idiot or look great, doesn't go down in the scorebooks. It's the number of runs you score. When you follow the ball like Pujara has been doing - he is committed to the front foot - you get yourself into trouble," Gavaskar pointed out. England won the toss and chose to bowl. Chris Woakes and Ollie Robinson scalped 7 wickets and dismantled India's batting attack.

'You may look like an idiot but you'd still be batting', says Sunil Gavaskar

Moeen Ali has been named the vice-captain of England ahead of the fourth Test against India. The all-rounder replaced wicketkeeper Jos Buttler, who was given a paternity break due to the birth of his second child.&nbsp;

Ali called it a huge honour serving as the deputy to Joe Root. "It's amazing. To captain or vice-captain England in any form is huge and I'm very excited. I'm obviously not hoping for Joe to go off the field but if he does go off, I'm looking forward to the role," Ali said during a press conference on the eve of the fourth Test.

"That's the beauty of sport in one way but I also know that Jos would have done it if I weren't. Things can change quickly and to be given the role is great. I do speak a lot to the players and we bounce ideas off each other."

Moeen Ali talked about R Ashwin warming the benches for the three test matches, and also lauded Jadeja for his skills.&nbsp;

"Most grounds in England spin a little bit anyway, some obviously more than others but there's always a bit of spin. Ashwin... yeah, I think a little bit maybe. I also feel Jadeja is an amazing cricketer; one of my favourite cricketers in the world. I would always have him in my team no matter what. India after winning at Lord's would have gone ahead with four seamers. I thought he did a great job. I'm sure Ashwin has been and will be considered going in tomorrow," Ali added.

Moeen Ali has been named the vice-captain of England ahead of the fourth Test against India. The all-rounder replaced wicketkeeper Jos Buttler, who was given a paternity break due to the birth of his second child.

Moeen Ali has been named the vice-captain of England ahead of the fourth Test against India. The all-rounder replaced wicketkeeper Jos Buttler, who was given a paternity break due to the birth of his second child. Ali called it a huge honour serving as the deputy to Joe Root. "It's amazing. To captain or vice-captain England in any form is huge and I'm very excited. I'm obviously not hoping for Joe to go off the field but if he does go off, I'm looking forward to the role," Ali said during a press conference on the eve of the fourth Test. "That's the beauty of sport in one way but I also know that Jos would have done it if I weren't. Things can change quickly and to be given the role is great. I do speak a lot to the players and we bounce ideas off each other." Moeen Ali talked about R Ashwin warming the benches for the three test matches, and also lauded Jadeja for his skills. "Most grounds in England spin a little bit anyway, some obviously more than others but there's always a bit of spin. Ashwin... yeah, I think a little bit maybe. I also feel Jadeja is an amazing cricketer; one of my favourite cricketers in the world. I would always have him in my team no matter what. India after winning at Lord's would have gone ahead with four seamers. I thought he did a great job. I'm sure Ashwin has been and will be considered going in tomorrow," Ali added.

'I would always have him in my team', Moeen Ali lauds Ravindra Jadeja

Veteran Indian pacer Ishant Sharma had an underwhelming performance at the Headingly. The 32-year-old was the only pacer to have gone wicketless during the third Test between India and England.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-or-england-aakash-chopra-makes-bold-claim-predicts-winner-of-4th-test-409862" hreflang="en">India or England? Aakash Chopra makes bold claim, predicts winner of 4th Test</a>

He received criticism after conceding 92 runs in 22 overs at an economy rate of 4.18. Now, former India pacer Ashish Nehra said that he was surprised by the flak Sharma was receiving after just one poor match.&nbsp;

“It will be too harsh on Ishant Sharma if we judge and discuss his place in the side after just one Test match. Somebody asked me yesterday, was Headingley Test Ishant Sharma’s last? I was very surprised that somebody even asked me that question,” Nehra said during a select media interaction organised by Sony Sports Network ahead of the fourth Test match at The Oval starting on Thursday.

“You can’t judge someone like an Ishant Sharma on one game performance. Yes, we have good four-five bowlers and there is a competition there but you don’t want to see a different bowler in every Test match,” he added.

Nehra went on to say that India did not lose the Headingly Test because of Ishant Sharma, however, agreed that the pacer was not at his best.&nbsp;

“Ishant is someone who bowls a no-ball here and there so do Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja. Yes, according to me, Ishant Sharma wasn’t looking in the best of the rhythms. We lost that test match so we are discussing that more. Ishant’s rhythm was not the reason we lost it. But don’t forget he missed the first game because of a niggle. In the second, it took him a while but because of experience of playing more than 100 Tests, he got back to his groove quickly and had a good Lord’s Test,” Nehra added.

“Because of conditions in Oval, we might Ashwin get a game in place of a fast bowler, whether it is in place of Ishant or Siraj, only time will tell,” Nehra said.

Veteran Indian pacer Ishant Sharma had an underwhelming performance at the Headingly. The 32-year-old was the only pacer to have gone wicketless during the third Test between India and England.

Veteran Indian pacer Ishant Sharma had an underwhelming performance at the Headingly. The 32-year-old was the only pacer to have gone wicketless during the third Test between India and England. ALSO READ: India or England? Aakash Chopra makes bold claim, predicts winner of 4th Test He received criticism after conceding 92 runs in 22 overs at an economy rate of 4.18. Now, former India pacer Ashish Nehra said that he was surprised by the flak Sharma was receiving after just one poor match. “It will be too harsh on Ishant Sharma if we judge and discuss his place in the side after just one Test match. Somebody asked me yesterday, was Headingley Test Ishant Sharma’s last? I was very surprised that somebody even asked me that question,” Nehra said during a select media interaction organised by Sony Sports Network ahead of the fourth Test match at The Oval starting on Thursday. “You can’t judge someone like an Ishant Sharma on one game performance. Yes, we have good four-five bowlers and there is a competition there but you don’t want to see a different bowler in every Test match,” he added. Nehra went on to say that India did not lose the Headingly Test because of Ishant Sharma, however, agreed that the pacer was not at his best. “Ishant is someone who bowls a no-ball here and there so do Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja. Yes, according to me, Ishant Sharma wasn’t looking in the best of the rhythms. We lost that test match so we are discussing that more. Ishant’s rhythm was not the reason we lost it. But don’t forget he missed the first game because of a niggle. In the second, it took him a while but because of experience of playing more than 100 Tests, he got back to his groove quickly and had a good Lord’s Test,” Nehra added. “Because of conditions in Oval, we might Ashwin get a game in place of a fast bowler, whether it is in place of Ishant or Siraj, only time will tell,” Nehra said.

'Ishant’s rhythm was not the reason we lost', says Ashish Nehra

Ahead of the fourth Test between India and England, former Indian pacer Zaheer Khan has predicted changes in Virat and Co.'s playing XI. Khan said that there can be a change in India's middle order.&nbsp;

Zaheer Khan talked about the form of Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane. He felt that while Pujara found a way to score in the previous Test at Headingley, Rahane still could not perform.&nbsp;

“Pujara was under pressure but he found a way to get out of that. He did something different and he got the results. Rahane hasn’t been able to do that. I think the series has reached at such a stage where these things would be analysed. And it’s possible that you can see a change,” Zaheer told Cricbuzz.

“Two players were under fire. One stepped up and performed but the other doesn’t seem comfortable yet,” Zaheer added.

Khan added that senior players cannot be in the team based on past performance but their consistency.&nbsp;

“When you play for a longer period of time, you cannot just be in the team depending on the past performances. You have to meet the continuity.

“At the same time your role gets changed. You don’t just think about your game but need to set an example for the youngsters as a strong middle-order batsman. So, the more you progress in your career, the level of scrutiny also goes up,” he added.

Ahead of the fourth Test between India and England, former Indian pacer Zaheer Khan has predicted changes in Virat and Co.'s playing XI. Khan said that there can be a change in India's middle order.

Ahead of the fourth Test between India and England, former Indian pacer Zaheer Khan has predicted changes in Virat and Co.'s playing XI. Khan said that there can be a change in India's middle order. Zaheer Khan talked about the form of Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane. He felt that while Pujara found a way to score in the previous Test at Headingley, Rahane still could not perform. “Pujara was under pressure but he found a way to get out of that. He did something different and he got the results. Rahane hasn’t been able to do that. I think the series has reached at such a stage where these things would be analysed. And it’s possible that you can see a change,” Zaheer told Cricbuzz. “Two players were under fire. One stepped up and performed but the other doesn’t seem comfortable yet,” Zaheer added. Khan added that senior players cannot be in the team based on past performance but their consistency. “When you play for a longer period of time, you cannot just be in the team depending on the past performances. You have to meet the continuity. “At the same time your role gets changed. You don’t just think about your game but need to set an example for the youngsters as a strong middle-order batsman. So, the more you progress in your career, the level of scrutiny also goes up,” he added.

Zaheer Khan predicts bold changes in India's playing XI ahead of fourth Test

England managed to equal the five-match series (1-1) against India after handing the visitors a crushing defeat in the third Test match that was played at Headingly, Leeds.&nbsp;

The Men in Blue were expected to continue their resistance from Day 3. They kicked off Day 4 with a trail of 139 runs and 8 wickets in hand.&nbsp;

Kohli and Pujara were expected to build on the 99-run partnership they had during Day 3. However, Pujara got out without adding any runs on the scoreboard.&nbsp;

Skipper Virat Kohli soon followed Pujara towards the dugout, shortly after scoring a half-century. India witnessed a batting collapse. From 215/2, they were bowled out for 278 runs in the second innings within 54 minutes, thus handing an innings and 76 runs victory to the hosts.&nbsp;

Now, former Indian skipper Sunil Gavaskar talked about India's batting collapse. During the post-match show on Sony Sports he said: "It was. When you have a look at what we have got at 8,9,10, and 11, we did have some rearguard action at Lord's, where England lost the plot more than anything else. Once the top three batsmen fell, it was clear we (India) were not going to survive for too long. By any stretch of the imagination, in 54 minutes for 7 wickets to fall is a little bit hard to take."

Winning captain Joe Root was overjoyed with the win and during the post-match presentation, he said: "It was a fantastic and clinical performance from the bowlers. The two big lads put loads of pressure with three maidens, and we had a really good opportunity to take wickets and we took them ruthlessly."

"We controlled and hung in with the new ball, and we reaped the rewards. Anderson churns out performances like that and that's why he's the GOAT of Test cricket," he added.&nbsp;

Both teams will now head into the penultimate Test match of the series and will play each other at the Oval.

England managed to equal the five-match series (1-1) against India after handing the visitors a crushing defeat in the third Test match that was played at Headingly, Leeds.

England managed to equal the five-match series (1-1) against India after handing the visitors a crushing defeat in the third Test match that was played at Headingly, Leeds. The Men in Blue were expected to continue their resistance from Day 3. They kicked off Day 4 with a trail of 139 runs and 8 wickets in hand. Kohli and Pujara were expected to build on the 99-run partnership they had during Day 3. However, Pujara got out without adding any runs on the scoreboard. Skipper Virat Kohli soon followed Pujara towards the dugout, shortly after scoring a half-century. India witnessed a batting collapse. From 215/2, they were bowled out for 278 runs in the second innings within 54 minutes, thus handing an innings and 76 runs victory to the hosts. Now, former Indian skipper Sunil Gavaskar talked about India's batting collapse. During the post-match show on Sony Sports he said: "It was. When you have a look at what we have got at 8,9,10, and 11, we did have some rearguard action at Lord's, where England lost the plot more than anything else. Once the top three batsmen fell, it was clear we (India) were not going to survive for too long. By any stretch of the imagination, in 54 minutes for 7 wickets to fall is a little bit hard to take." Winning captain Joe Root was overjoyed with the win and during the post-match presentation, he said: "It was a fantastic and clinical performance from the bowlers. The two big lads put loads of pressure with three maidens, and we had a really good opportunity to take wickets and we took them ruthlessly." "We controlled and hung in with the new ball, and we reaped the rewards. Anderson churns out performances like that and that's why he's the GOAT of Test cricket," he added. Both teams will now head into the penultimate Test match of the series and will play each other at the Oval.

'54 minutes for 7 wickets to fall is a little bit hard to take', says Sunil Gavaskar

Mohammed Shami's unbeaten half-century at Lord's gave India a "false sense of security about their tail" and they cannot have "four rabbits from 8-11", said former England captain Michael Vaughan after the visitors suffered an innings defeat in the third Test.

India were bundled out for 78 and 278 in their two innings to go down by an innings and 76 runs in the third Test at Leeds, allowing England to level the five-match series 1-1.

Vaughan feels senior off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin's inclusion in the playing XI can solve the problem.

"Surely they have to pick Ravi Ashwin next week. You cannot have four rabbits from 8-11. The resistance at Lord's lulled them into a false sense of security about their tail. In reality, they cannot have Mohammed Shami coming in at eight," Vaughan wrote in a Facebook post.

Shami had smashed an incredible 56 not out off 70 balls in the second Test to take India to 298 for 8 declared, setting a target of 272, which the hosts failed to chase.

"Ashwin has to come in ...They got away with it at Lord's, you can't have four rabbits at 8, 9, 10 and 11. Ashwin has to play, he has got 5 Test match hundreds, he has got 400 Test wickets, he has to come into this Test team," Vaughan told BBC's Test Match Special Podcast.

"In the Indian dressing room, there is a lot of experience. The last two games, two really good venues and two venues where you can say spin has played a part historically. I would be staggered if R Ashwin is not on the team sheet on Thursday morning."

Joe Root has been simply sensational, smashing a hundred in each of the last three Tests, to inspire England to a come-from-behind win at Headingley and also in the process become the country's most successful Test captain.

"Well done to Joe Root for becoming England's most successful Test captain of all time," Vaughan wrote. Root had surpassed Vaughan with 27 Test wins as captain.

"It is not something he will care about at the moment. It is the kind of thing that does not sink in while you are still playing. You only reflect on those achievements later in life.

"When that happens he will realise his record may never be beaten because how much Test cricket will be played in the future? To captain England for 55 matches is a great effort in itself given how draining the job is, especially when he is carrying the batting to such a great extent as well."

Vaughan feels the Ashes is the only missing piece in Root's illustrious career as captain and he will be eager to achieve that next.

"Right now I am pretty sure he would swap some of those 27 victories for an Ashes series win. He wants more than anything to experience that feeling of holding up the urn because it is the only piece missing from his career," Vaughan wrote.

"Perhaps it will change in time and winning the World Test Championship will become the pinnacle for captains but at the moment for the leaders of England and Australia it is the Ashes that matters above all else."

Vaughan feels the upcoming Ashes might be his last chance to beat Australia, something which has been a yardstick of adjudging the greatness of a captain over the years.

"I realise I might cop a little bit of flak for this but Joe will not go down as a great captain until he beats Australia, probably even in his own mind, and who knows, his third crack at it this winter might be his last. Not many get four bites at the cherry," he said.

The fourth India-England Test begins on Thursday at Kennington Oval.

Mohammed Shami's unbeaten half-century at Lord's gave India a "false sense of security about their tail" and they cannot have "four rabbits from 8-11", said former England captain Michael Vaughan after the visitors suffered an innings defeat in the third Test.

Mohammed Shami's unbeaten half-century at Lord's gave India a "false sense of security about their tail" and they cannot have "four rabbits from 8-11", said former England captain Michael Vaughan after the visitors suffered an innings defeat in the third Test. India were bundled out for 78 and 278 in their two innings to go down by an innings and 76 runs in the third Test at Leeds, allowing England to level the five-match series 1-1. Vaughan feels senior off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin's inclusion in the playing XI can solve the problem. "Surely they have to pick Ravi Ashwin next week. You cannot have four rabbits from 8-11. The resistance at Lord's lulled them into a false sense of security about their tail. In reality, they cannot have Mohammed Shami coming in at eight," Vaughan wrote in a Facebook post. Shami had smashed an incredible 56 not out off 70 balls in the second Test to take India to 298 for 8 declared, setting a target of 272, which the hosts failed to chase. "Ashwin has to come in ...They got away with it at Lord's, you can't have four rabbits at 8, 9, 10 and 11. Ashwin has to play, he has got 5 Test match hundreds, he has got 400 Test wickets, he has to come into this Test team," Vaughan told BBC's Test Match Special Podcast. "In the Indian dressing room, there is a lot of experience. The last two games, two really good venues and two venues where you can say spin has played a part historically. I would be staggered if R Ashwin is not on the team sheet on Thursday morning." Joe Root has been simply sensational, smashing a hundred in each of the last three Tests, to inspire England to a come-from-behind win at Headingley and also in the process become the country's most successful Test captain. "Well done to Joe Root for becoming England's most successful Test captain of all time," Vaughan wrote. Root had surpassed Vaughan with 27 Test wins as captain. "It is not something he will care about at the moment. It is the kind of thing that does not sink in while you are still playing. You only reflect on those achievements later in life. "When that happens he will realise his record may never be beaten because how much Test cricket will be played in the future? To captain England for 55 matches is a great effort in itself given how draining the job is, especially when he is carrying the batting to such a great extent as well." Vaughan feels the Ashes is the only missing piece in Root's illustrious career as captain and he will be eager to achieve that next. "Right now I am pretty sure he would swap some of those 27 victories for an Ashes series win. He wants more than anything to experience that feeling of holding up the urn because it is the only piece missing from his career," Vaughan wrote. "Perhaps it will change in time and winning the World Test Championship will become the pinnacle for captains but at the moment for the leaders of England and Australia it is the Ashes that matters above all else." Vaughan feels the upcoming Ashes might be his last chance to beat Australia, something which has been a yardstick of adjudging the greatness of a captain over the years. "I realise I might cop a little bit of flak for this but Joe will not go down as a great captain until he beats Australia, probably even in his own mind, and who knows, his third crack at it this winter might be his last. Not many get four bites at the cherry," he said. The fourth India-England Test begins on Thursday at Kennington Oval.

Lord's gave India a false sense of security about their tail, says Michael Vaughan

England captain Joe Root has said his team have the quality to consistently deliver performances similar to their crushing win over India in the third Test at Headingley on Saturday. 
 
England, after being comprehensively outplayed in the second Test at Lord`s, thrashed the visitors by an innings and 76 runs to level the five-test series at 1-1. 
 
"I`ve always known what we`re capable of doing. Everyone in this group has shown that they`re good enough to perform and to deliver performances like that collectively," Root told reporters on Saturday. 
 
"One thing we need to keep getting better at is being more consistent and doing that time and time again. And (Headingley) is a great template for us to work from. 
 
"As a batting group, we made that big first innings score. As a bowling group, we were relentless. That`s the sort of thing that over time, we need to just keep doing more and more of." 
 
Root emphasised the need for consistent big partnerships with the bat after leading the way with his 121, while Rory Burns, Haseeb Hameed and Dawid Malan all scored half-centuries. 
 
"Now we`ve done it once this series, there`s no reason why we can`t take this forward," Root added. 
 
"We`ve shown that we can stand up to these guys in our own way and do it in our own manner as a side and really put them back under pressure. We`ve got a great opportunity now with two games to go to do just that." 
 
The victory also made Root the most successful test captain for England with the result giving him his 27th win, one more than Michael Vaughan. 
 
"I`m living my boyhood dream," the 30-year-old said. 
 
"I couldn`t be more proud to have gone past Michael but you don`t do that on your own as captain -- it`s down to the group of players and the coaching staff as well." 
 
The fourth test starts at The Oval on Thursday.

England captain Joe Root has said his team have the quality to consistently deliver performances similar to their crushing win over India in the third Test at Headingley on Saturday.

England captain Joe Root has said his team have the quality to consistently deliver performances similar to their crushing win over India in the third Test at Headingley on Saturday. England, after being comprehensively outplayed in the second Test at Lord`s, thrashed the visitors by an innings and 76 runs to level the five-test series at 1-1. "I`ve always known what we`re capable of doing. Everyone in this group has shown that they`re good enough to perform and to deliver performances like that collectively," Root told reporters on Saturday. "One thing we need to keep getting better at is being more consistent and doing that time and time again. And (Headingley) is a great template for us to work from. "As a batting group, we made that big first innings score. As a bowling group, we were relentless. That`s the sort of thing that over time, we need to just keep doing more and more of." Root emphasised the need for consistent big partnerships with the bat after leading the way with his 121, while Rory Burns, Haseeb Hameed and Dawid Malan all scored half-centuries. "Now we`ve done it once this series, there`s no reason why we can`t take this forward," Root added. "We`ve shown that we can stand up to these guys in our own way and do it in our own manner as a side and really put them back under pressure. We`ve got a great opportunity now with two games to go to do just that." The victory also made Root the most successful test captain for England with the result giving him his 27th win, one more than Michael Vaughan. "I`m living my boyhood dream," the 30-year-old said. "I couldn`t be more proud to have gone past Michael but you don`t do that on your own as captain -- it`s down to the group of players and the coaching staff as well." The fourth test starts at The Oval on Thursday.

England captain Root backs team to build on Headingley win

Joe Root scripted history on Saturday when his team handed India a crushing defeat at Headingly, Leeds as he became England’s most successful Test captain with 27 wins to his name.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-3rd-test-england-hand-a-crushing-innings-defeat-to-india-level-series-1-1-409028" hreflang="en">IND vs ENG, 3rd Test: England hand a crushing innings defeat to India, level series 1-1</a>

The 30-year-old surpassed the likes of Michael Vaughan, Andrew Strauss and Alastair Cook to guide his team to the most number of wins in Test cricket.

It took Joe Root 55 Tests to achieve this feat. He is followed by Vaughan, who won 26 matches out of 51 Tests. Alastair Cook and Andrew Strauss won 24 Tests each.&nbsp;

Except for the third day, England dominated the match from the very first day, when they bundled India out for just 78 runs. England captain Joe Root scored his third consecutive ton in the series and guided hosts to a mammoth 432 runs, taking a lead of 354 runs.&nbsp;

Winning captain Joe Root was overjoyed with the win and during the post-match presentation, he said: "It was a fantastic and clinical performance from the bowlers. The two big lads put loads of pressure with three maidens, and we had a really good opportunity to take wickets and we took them ruthlessly."

"We controlled and hung in with the new ball, and we reaped the rewards. Anderson churns out performances like that and that's why he's the GOAT of Test cricket," he added.&nbsp;

With the series equalled, both teams will now head into the penultimate Test match of the series and will play each other at the Oval.

Joe Root scripted history on Saturday when his team handed India a crushing defeat at Headingly, Leeds as he became England’s most successful Test captain with 27 wins to his name.

Joe Root scripted history on Saturday when his team handed India a crushing defeat at Headingly, Leeds as he became England’s most successful Test captain with 27 wins to his name. ALSO READ: IND vs ENG, 3rd Test: England hand a crushing innings defeat to India, level series 1-1 The 30-year-old surpassed the likes of Michael Vaughan, Andrew Strauss and Alastair Cook to guide his team to the most number of wins in Test cricket. It took Joe Root 55 Tests to achieve this feat. He is followed by Vaughan, who won 26 matches out of 51 Tests. Alastair Cook and Andrew Strauss won 24 Tests each. Except for the third day, England dominated the match from the very first day, when they bundled India out for just 78 runs. England captain Joe Root scored his third consecutive ton in the series and guided hosts to a mammoth 432 runs, taking a lead of 354 runs. Winning captain Joe Root was overjoyed with the win and during the post-match presentation, he said: "It was a fantastic and clinical performance from the bowlers. The two big lads put loads of pressure with three maidens, and we had a really good opportunity to take wickets and we took them ruthlessly." "We controlled and hung in with the new ball, and we reaped the rewards. Anderson churns out performances like that and that's why he's the GOAT of Test cricket," he added. With the series equalled, both teams will now head into the penultimate Test match of the series and will play each other at the Oval.

After the win against India, Joe Root becomes England's most successful Test captain

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