<p>Ahead of the third Test versus England, former Indian pacer RP Singh opened up on captain Rohit Sharma's form struggles. In the first two Tests, Rohit failed to get a big score and could not even cross the 50-run mark in four outings. After the opening two games, he has scores of 24, 39, 14 and 13. Thus, Singh opined on Rohit's struggles and feels the Indian captain is 'overthinking' and being 'over cautious'.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Talking on Cricbuzz, Singh stated, "Rohit Sharma is overthinking. He's thinking about playing a big knock, build at least two-three partnerships in the absence of other main players to take the innings forward. He's being over-cautious in trying to do that. He's not that kind of a player. His style is different. He is a free-flowing batter and that is missing. He can play his shots. An over-cautious Rohit is not good both as a batter and as a person."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-england-to-recall-mark-wood-in-playing-xi-for-rajkot-test-shoaib-bashir-likely-to-miss-out-690077">IND vs ENG: England to recall Mark Wood in Playing XI for Rajkot Test; Shoaib Bashir likely to miss out</a></strong></p>

<p>Rohit has not looked very sure in the middle. He has got starts in every outing but failed to make the most of them, falling to both spin and pace. In the second Test in Visakhapatnam, he looked very timid and cautious in the middle, leading to his dismissal. It will be interesting to see how he approaches the rest of the series given India are already without Virat Kohli (due to personal reasons) whereas there are several injury woes in the batting department (with KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer currently ruled out). Thus, India need Rohit to fire on all cylinders with the series interestingly poised at 1-1 with three games to go.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>India’s squad for the final three England Tests&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Rohit Sharma (captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Sarfaraz Khan, Rajat Patidar, Ravindra Jadeja, Devdutt Padikkal KS Bharat (wk), Dhruv Jurel (wk), Axar Patel, R Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav, Washington Sundar, Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Mohammed Siraj, Mukesh Kumar and Akash Deep</p>


Ahead of the third Test versus England, former Indian pacer RP Singh opened up on captain Rohit Sharma's form struggles. In the first two Tests, Rohit failed to get a big score and could not even cross the 50-run mark in four outings.

Ahead of the third Test versus England, former Indian pacer RP Singh opened up on captain Rohit Sharma's form struggles. In the first two Tests, Rohit failed to get a big score and could not even cross the 50-run mark in four outings. After the opening two games, he has scores of 24, 39, 14 and 13. Thus, Singh opined on Rohit's struggles and feels the Indian captain is 'overthinking' and being 'over cautious'. Talking on Cricbuzz, Singh stated, "Rohit Sharma is overthinking. He's thinking about playing a big knock, build at least two-three partnerships in the absence of other main players to take the innings forward. He's being over-cautious in trying to do that. He's not that kind of a player. His style is different. He is a free-flowing batter and that is missing. He can play his shots. An over-cautious Rohit is not good both as a batter and as a person." Also read: IND vs ENG: England to recall Mark Wood in Playing XI for Rajkot Test; Shoaib Bashir likely to miss out Rohit has not looked very sure in the middle. He has got starts in every outing but failed to make the most of them, falling to both spin and pace. In the second Test in Visakhapatnam, he looked very timid and cautious in the middle, leading to his dismissal. It will be interesting to see how he approaches the rest of the series given India are already without Virat Kohli (due to personal reasons) whereas there are several injury woes in the batting department (with KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer currently ruled out). Thus, India need Rohit to fire on all cylinders with the series interestingly poised at 1-1 with three games to go. India’s squad for the final three England Tests Rohit Sharma (captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Sarfaraz Khan, Rajat Patidar, Ravindra Jadeja, Devdutt Padikkal KS Bharat (wk), Dhruv Jurel (wk), Axar Patel, R Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav, Washington Sundar, Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Mohammed Siraj, Mukesh Kumar and Akash Deep

Ind vs Eng: He is overthinking, being over-cautious - Former Indian pacer on Rohit Sharma's form struggles

<p>England captain Ben Stokes is set for a major milestone in his Test career as he will wear his 100th cap in the red-ball format on Thursday (Feb 15) when his side takes on hosts India. Stokes, who made his debut for England in 2013, is the third-longest-serving active player in the team and was appointed captain of the side in 2022. He will join an elite company of players on Thursday when he takes the field at the Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot.</p>

<h2><strong>Stokes opens up on 100th Test cap</strong></h2>

<p>"Every Test is just as important as the next one. Then there's the next one, which will be 101 - it's just one more," Stokes said while in conversation with BBC.</p>

<p>"It's a sign of longevity, but 99, 100 or 101 doesn't make much difference. It's just a number.</p>

<p>"I don't want it to sound like I'm not thankful for the opportunities I've had, but with milestones, it's not done until it's done," he added.</p>

<p>Stokes has enjoyed a stellar Test career and has flourished since taking the leadership role in 2022. During his time as skipper till now, he has helped England win the Test series against New Zealand, Pakistan and South Africa while drawing 2-2 against Australia in the Ashes in 2023. His latest challenge though remains a litmus test against India in their own backyard.</p>

<h3><strong>Most Test matches for England (Active Players)</strong></h3>

<p>James Anderson (2003 – Present) – 184 Matches</p>

<p>Joe Root (2012 – Present) – 137 Matches</p>

<p><strong>Ben Stokes (2013 – Present) – 99 Matches</strong></p>

<p>Jonny Bairstow (2012 – Present) – 97 Matches</p>

<p>Zak Crawley (2019 – Present) – 41 Matches</p>

<p>Ollie Pope (2018 – Present) – 40 Matches</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-england-to-recall-mark-wood-in-playing-xi-for-rajkot-test-shoaib-bashir-likely-to-miss-out-690077">IND vs ENG: England to recall Mark Wood in Playing XI for Rajkot Test; Shoaib Bashir likely to miss out</a></p>

<h2><strong>Can Stokes lead England to win in his 100th Test?</strong></h2>

<p>England are set to make wholesome changes to their Playing XI for the third Test match against India as the visitors look set to recall Mark Wood. Wood, having played the opening Test against India in Hyderabad, looks set for a recall as the visitors are likely to field two pacers in the third Test in Rajkot. This equation could result in Vizag debutant Shoaib Bashir missing out on the Playing XI.</p>

<p>Having won the opening Test by 28 runs in Hyderabad, the visitors were given a reality check by India owing to&nbsp;Yashasvi Jaiswal’s double ton and Jasprit Bumrah’s smart bowling in Vizag. India won the Test by 106 runs and will enter Rajkot with intentions of back-to-back wins having levelled the series 1-1.</p>


England captain Ben Stokes is set for a major milestone in his Test career as he will wear his 100th cap in the red-ball format on Thursday (Feb 15) when his side takes on hosts India.

England captain Ben Stokes is set for a major milestone in his Test career as he will wear his 100th cap in the red-ball format on Thursday (Feb 15) when his side takes on hosts India. Stokes, who made his debut for England in 2013, is the third-longest-serving active player in the team and was appointed captain of the side in 2022. He will join an elite company of players on Thursday when he takes the field at the Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot. Stokes opens up on 100th Test cap "Every Test is just as important as the next one. Then there's the next one, which will be 101 - it's just one more," Stokes said while in conversation with BBC. "It's a sign of longevity, but 99, 100 or 101 doesn't make much difference. It's just a number. "I don't want it to sound like I'm not thankful for the opportunities I've had, but with milestones, it's not done until it's done," he added. Stokes has enjoyed a stellar Test career and has flourished since taking the leadership role in 2022. During his time as skipper till now, he has helped England win the Test series against New Zealand, Pakistan and South Africa while drawing 2-2 against Australia in the Ashes in 2023. His latest challenge though remains a litmus test against India in their own backyard. Most Test matches for England (Active Players) James Anderson (2003 – Present) – 184 Matches Joe Root (2012 – Present) – 137 Matches Ben Stokes (2013 – Present) – 99 Matches Jonny Bairstow (2012 – Present) – 97 Matches Zak Crawley (2019 – Present) – 41 Matches Ollie Pope (2018 – Present) – 40 Matches ALSO READ | IND vs ENG: England to recall Mark Wood in Playing XI for Rajkot Test; Shoaib Bashir likely to miss out Can Stokes lead England to win in his 100th Test? England are set to make wholesome changes to their Playing XI for the third Test match against India as the visitors look set to recall Mark Wood. Wood, having played the opening Test against India in Hyderabad, looks set for a recall as the visitors are likely to field two pacers in the third Test in Rajkot. This equation could result in Vizag debutant Shoaib Bashir missing out on the Playing XI. Having won the opening Test by 28 runs in Hyderabad, the visitors were given a reality check by India owing to Yashasvi Jaiswal’s double ton and Jasprit Bumrah’s smart bowling in Vizag. India won the Test by 106 runs and will enter Rajkot with intentions of back-to-back wins having levelled the series 1-1.

IND vs ENG: 'It's just a number' - Ben Stokes on monumental 100th Test cap for England

<p>England cricket team’s off-field issues have once again taken the spotlight after spin sensation Rehan Ahmed was left stranded at the Rajkot Airport on Monday (Feb 12). Ahmed, who along with the rest of his England squad was in the UAE for warm weather, returned to India with a single entry visa that has reportedly seen him being stranded at the airport. This is not the first time England has seen visa issues take the spotlight, with Shoaib Bashir arriving late in India forcing him to miss the opening Test in Hyderabad.</p>

<h2><strong>Rehan Ahmed stranded at airport</strong></h2>

<p>According to several media reports, Ahmed, arriving in India for the second time in 30 days, was carrying a single entry visa which was not permissible for him during the Test match since the visitors are playing in multiple cities. An absence of a multi-entry visa forced Ahmed to stay at the airport for more than two hours before the issue was resolved.</p>

<p>"The England team has been advised to process the visa again which will be happening in the next two days," a BCCI official was quoted&nbsp;saying. "The player was allowed to enter the country with the rest of the team and he will be appearing in practice on Tuesday."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/blow-to-multan-sultans-as-reece-topley-ruled-out-of-psl-2024-ipl-participation-under-dark-cloud-689620">Blow to Multan Sultans as Reece Topley ruled out of PSL 2024; IPL participation under dark cloud</a></p>

<p>Ahmed after hours of delay was back in the team camp in the hotel and is ready to play in the third Test starting on Thursday (Feb 15) in Rajkot. Notably, considering the previous visa issues, the England team management didn't seem to have learnt its lesson.</p>

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<p>Earlier, Shoaib Bashir was forced to return to the UK after failing to secure his visa for India due to his Pakistani heritage. Like Bashir, Ahmed also has Pakistan heritage but secured his visa to India in October when he was on standby for the ODI World Cup.</p>

<p>While issues off the field are concerning, England will look to switch their attention to the on-field matter when they play the hosts in the third Test. The series is currently level at 1-1 with England winning the Hyderabad contest before Jasprit Bumrah led India to victory in the Vizag match.</p>


England cricket team’s off-field issues have once again taken the spotlight after spin sensation Rehan Ahmed was left stranded at the Rajkot Airport on Monday (Feb 12).

England cricket team’s off-field issues have once again taken the spotlight after spin sensation Rehan Ahmed was left stranded at the Rajkot Airport on Monday (Feb 12). Ahmed, who along with the rest of his England squad was in the UAE for warm weather, returned to India with a single entry visa that has reportedly seen him being stranded at the airport. This is not the first time England has seen visa issues take the spotlight, with Shoaib Bashir arriving late in India forcing him to miss the opening Test in Hyderabad. Rehan Ahmed stranded at airport According to several media reports, Ahmed, arriving in India for the second time in 30 days, was carrying a single entry visa which was not permissible for him during the Test match since the visitors are playing in multiple cities. An absence of a multi-entry visa forced Ahmed to stay at the airport for more than two hours before the issue was resolved. "The England team has been advised to process the visa again which will be happening in the next two days," a BCCI official was quoted saying. "The player was allowed to enter the country with the rest of the team and he will be appearing in practice on Tuesday." ALSO READ | Blow to Multan Sultans as Reece Topley ruled out of PSL 2024; IPL participation under dark cloud Ahmed after hours of delay was back in the team camp in the hotel and is ready to play in the third Test starting on Thursday (Feb 15) in Rajkot. Notably, considering the previous visa issues, the England team management didn't seem to have learnt its lesson. × Earlier, Shoaib Bashir was forced to return to the UK after failing to secure his visa for India due to his Pakistani heritage. Like Bashir, Ahmed also has Pakistan heritage but secured his visa to India in October when he was on standby for the ODI World Cup. While issues off the field are concerning, England will look to switch their attention to the on-field matter when they play the hosts in the third Test. The series is currently level at 1-1 with England winning the Hyderabad contest before Jasprit Bumrah led India to victory in the Vizag match.

IND vs ENG: After Bashir, England face another ordeal, visa issue keeps Rehan Ahmed stranded at Rajkot airport

<p>Ahead of the third Test versus England, in Rajkot, India's wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav spoke on Ravindra Jadeja's availability for the crucial encounter. Jadeja featured in the first Test, in Hyderabad, but missed the second Test, in Visakhapatnam, due to&nbsp;a hamstring injury. He is now back in the Indian squad after attaining full fitness but it remains to be seen if he will be included in the playing XI straightaway. Given Rohit Sharma-led India have a lot of injury concerns, Jadeja's availability remains crucial for the upcoming Test at the Saurashtra Cricket Association, Rajkot.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Addressing the media in the pre-match presser, spinner Kuldeep opined on Jadeja and said on his availability, "I think so. Ravindra Jadeja did his routine and had a session yesterday too. He is available." Thus, the 29-year-old is confident of the all-rounder's return to the playing XI for the third Test.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-ks-bharat-or-dhruv-jurel-former-indian-opener-makes-his-pick-for-3rd-test-689851">Ind vs Eng: KS Bharat or Dhruv Jurel? Former Indian opener makes his pick for 3rd Test</a></strong></p>

<p>If Jadeja returns, there will be a toss-up between Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav. Given R Ashwin will spearhead the spin department, only one among Kuldeep and Axar will be part of the spin trio. For India, they will hope for Jadeja to be part of the playing XI given they are already without Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul, with injuries, whereas Virat Kohli remains unavailable for personal reasons.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Jadeja accounted for five wickets in the first Test in Hyderabad, along with&nbsp;an impressive 80 in the first innings. His experience on his home ground, in Rajkot, will also come in handy for Rohit &amp; Co.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>India’s squad for the final three England Tests&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Rohit Sharma (captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Sarfaraz Khan, Rajat Patidar, Ravindra Jadeja, Devdutt Padikkal, KS Bharat (wk), Dhruv Jurel (wk), Axar Patel, R Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav, Washington Sundar, Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Mohammed Siraj, Mukesh Kumar and Akash Deep</p>


Ahead of the third Test versus England, in Rajkot, India's wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav spoke on Ravindra Jadeja's availability for the crucial encounter. Jadeja featured in the first Test, in Hyderabad, but missed the second Test, in Visakhapatnam, due to a hamstring injury.

Ahead of the third Test versus England, in Rajkot, India's wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav spoke on Ravindra Jadeja's availability for the crucial encounter. Jadeja featured in the first Test, in Hyderabad, but missed the second Test, in Visakhapatnam, due to a hamstring injury. He is now back in the Indian squad after attaining full fitness but it remains to be seen if he will be included in the playing XI straightaway. Given Rohit Sharma-led India have a lot of injury concerns, Jadeja's availability remains crucial for the upcoming Test at the Saurashtra Cricket Association, Rajkot. Addressing the media in the pre-match presser, spinner Kuldeep opined on Jadeja and said on his availability, "I think so. Ravindra Jadeja did his routine and had a session yesterday too. He is available." Thus, the 29-year-old is confident of the all-rounder's return to the playing XI for the third Test. Also read: Ind vs Eng: KS Bharat or Dhruv Jurel? Former Indian opener makes his pick for 3rd Test If Jadeja returns, there will be a toss-up between Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav. Given R Ashwin will spearhead the spin department, only one among Kuldeep and Axar will be part of the spin trio. For India, they will hope for Jadeja to be part of the playing XI given they are already without Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul, with injuries, whereas Virat Kohli remains unavailable for personal reasons. Jadeja accounted for five wickets in the first Test in Hyderabad, along with an impressive 80 in the first innings. His experience on his home ground, in Rajkot, will also come in handy for Rohit & Co. India’s squad for the final three England Tests Rohit Sharma (captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Sarfaraz Khan, Rajat Patidar, Ravindra Jadeja, Devdutt Padikkal, KS Bharat (wk), Dhruv Jurel (wk), Axar Patel, R Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav, Washington Sundar, Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Mohammed Siraj, Mukesh Kumar and Akash Deep

Ind vs Eng: 'He is...' - Kuldeep Yadav gives update on Ravindra Jadeja's availability for Rajkot Test

<p>India and England will lock horns in the third Test&nbsp;in Rajkot&nbsp;on Thursday (Feb 15) with the five-match series interestingly poised at 1-1. Ahead of the Test match, there have been some indications that India might opt for Dhruv Jurel to don the wicketkeeper's gloves as KS Bharat is likely to make way for the debutant keeper-batter. Nonetheless, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra opened up on who between Bharat and Jurel should be given a chance in the third Test match in Rajkot. Chopra feels Bharat has done a 'good job' behind the stumps and has got starts with the bat and, hence, can continue to be India's keeper-batter.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'I think he should play this match'</strong></h2>

<p>Speaking on his YouTube channel, Chopra said, "I am hearing news that Dhruv Jurel might make his Test debut in Rajkot. I am thinking if it's right or wrong. If you ask me personally, I think KS Bharat should be judged first based on his wicketkeeping. And whatever we have seen of him, I don't find anything bad. He is doing a good job."</p>

<p>"These are difficult pitches, that's why you (the team management) said you won't keep wickets with KL Rahul. You said you wanted a specialist keeper. So in that specialist keeper's role, he is fulfilling his duty. In Hyderabad, he played well in both the innings. In fact, in the second innings, had he batted a bit longer, India would have gone on to win the match. I will be a little disappointed... I think he should play this match. You have to look at a keeper as a keeper, you have three spinners, all three of them are batters, if Jadeja returns."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-dhoni-had-quick-hands-but-foakes-has-quickest-hands-in-the-game-says-englands-former-stumper-689573">Ind vs Eng: Dhoni had quick hands but Foakes has quickest hands in the game, says England's former stumper</a></strong></p>

<p>The former batter added, "I would be slightly disappointed if India lost confidence in KS Bharat quite quickly. It has happened in the past. He played the World Test Championship final, then you to the West Indies, you changed your game, and there Ishan Kishan played as wicketkeeper. There has been a lack of continuity since Rishabh Pant's injury.</p>

<p>"So I think the team management should be a little patient. KS Bharat should get at least one more Test. I would want him to play all 5 Tests. But if batting is that important, at least give him one more match."</p>

<p>On Monday (Feb 12), Rohit Sharma-led India were dealt a major blow as KL Rahul, who missed the second Test due to injury, got ruled out of the Rajkot encounter for not gaining full recovery from the quadriceps issues. Hence, Devdutt Padikkal has been called in as a replacement. India are already without Shreyas Iyer and Virat Kohli in their batting line-up. In this scenario, it is unlikely that the hosts will&nbsp;include an uncapped keeper-batter and, hence, Bharat is likely to retain his spot.</p>

<p><strong>India’s squad for the final three England Tests&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Rohit Sharma (captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Sarfaraz Khan, Rajat Patidar, Ravindra Jadeja, Devdutt Padikkal KS Bharat (wk), Dhruv Jurel (wk), Axar Patel, R Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav, Washington Sundar, Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Mohammed Siraj, Mukesh Kumar and Akash Deep</p>


India and England will lock horns in the third Test in Rajkot on Thursday (Feb 15) with the five-match series interestingly poised at 1-1. Ahead of the Test match, there have been some indications that India might opt for Dhruv Jurel to don the wicketkeeper's gloves as KS Bharat is likely to make way for the debutant keeper-batter.

India and England will lock horns in the third Test in Rajkot on Thursday (Feb 15) with the five-match series interestingly poised at 1-1. Ahead of the Test match, there have been some indications that India might opt for Dhruv Jurel to don the wicketkeeper's gloves as KS Bharat is likely to make way for the debutant keeper-batter. Nonetheless, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra opened up on who between Bharat and Jurel should be given a chance in the third Test match in Rajkot. Chopra feels Bharat has done a 'good job' behind the stumps and has got starts with the bat and, hence, can continue to be India's keeper-batter. 'I think he should play this match' Speaking on his YouTube channel, Chopra said, "I am hearing news that Dhruv Jurel might make his Test debut in Rajkot. I am thinking if it's right or wrong. If you ask me personally, I think KS Bharat should be judged first based on his wicketkeeping. And whatever we have seen of him, I don't find anything bad. He is doing a good job." "These are difficult pitches, that's why you (the team management) said you won't keep wickets with KL Rahul. You said you wanted a specialist keeper. So in that specialist keeper's role, he is fulfilling his duty. In Hyderabad, he played well in both the innings. In fact, in the second innings, had he batted a bit longer, India would have gone on to win the match. I will be a little disappointed... I think he should play this match. You have to look at a keeper as a keeper, you have three spinners, all three of them are batters, if Jadeja returns." Also read: Ind vs Eng: Dhoni had quick hands but Foakes has quickest hands in the game, says England's former stumper The former batter added, "I would be slightly disappointed if India lost confidence in KS Bharat quite quickly. It has happened in the past. He played the World Test Championship final, then you to the West Indies, you changed your game, and there Ishan Kishan played as wicketkeeper. There has been a lack of continuity since Rishabh Pant's injury. "So I think the team management should be a little patient. KS Bharat should get at least one more Test. I would want him to play all 5 Tests. But if batting is that important, at least give him one more match." On Monday (Feb 12), Rohit Sharma-led India were dealt a major blow as KL Rahul, who missed the second Test due to injury, got ruled out of the Rajkot encounter for not gaining full recovery from the quadriceps issues. Hence, Devdutt Padikkal has been called in as a replacement. India are already without Shreyas Iyer and Virat Kohli in their batting line-up. In this scenario, it is unlikely that the hosts will include an uncapped keeper-batter and, hence, Bharat is likely to retain his spot. India’s squad for the final three England Tests Rohit Sharma (captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Sarfaraz Khan, Rajat Patidar, Ravindra Jadeja, Devdutt Padikkal KS Bharat (wk), Dhruv Jurel (wk), Axar Patel, R Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav, Washington Sundar, Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Mohammed Siraj, Mukesh Kumar and Akash Deep

Ind vs Eng: KS Bharat or Dhruv Jurel? Former Indian opener makes his pick for 3rd Test

<p>India and England are set to lock horns in the third Test in Rajkot, which gets underway on Feb 15 (Thursday). Given that the series is currently levelled at 1-1, there is all to play for both sides. Ahead of the third Test, former England Test specialist Ian Bell has praised Ben Stokes-led side and feels they have pushed India on the back foot with their aggressive and fearless approach. The visitors gained a 1-0 lead after winning the first Test in Hyderabad&nbsp;by 28 runs in a remarkable fashion and gave a tough fight in their chase of 399 in the second Test in Visakhapatnam before losing by 106 runs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking to Sky Sports, Bell said, "I suppose the Indian media was very confident that it's going to be 5-0 before the series started. No doubt that this India team is worried about this England side, which is great. I think England have thrown some real punches to push India back."</p>

<p>He further opined, "It's going to come down to again, someone like Ollie Pope did in that first game to get a big hundred, that's really important to really put yourself in the game, but they look threatening."</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-dhoni-had-quick-hands-but-foakes-has-quickest-hands-in-the-game-says-englands-former-stumper-689573">Ind vs Eng: Dhoni had quick hands but Foakes has quickest hands in the game, says England's former stumper</a></strong></p>

<p>Bell feels the Indian team is under pressure and has backed someone in the England line-up to replicate Ollie Pope's heroics from the series opener, where he slammed an impressive 196 in the second innings, and add to India's concerns. “I think the Indian lineup has got amazing amount of talent, but again, there will be doubt there. Not that they don’t have the talent and ability, but I feel there will a bit more pressure at the moment on India. Let’s hope so. But it's in the balance right now. But I think if someone can do what Ollie Pope did in the first Test, we can put pressure on India,” Bell added.</p>

<p>The likes of Pope, Tom Hartley (7 for 62 in the final innings of the Hyderabad Test), Zak Crawley (two successive fifties), Stokes (with his aggressive captaincy and vital knocks with the bat) have been England's main performers so far in the series. It will be interesting to see who makes a difference from England in the third Test in Rajkot.&nbsp;</p>


India and England are set to lock horns in the third Test in Rajkot, which gets underway on Feb 15 (Thursday). Given that the series is currently levelled at 1-1, there is all to play for both sides.

India and England are set to lock horns in the third Test in Rajkot, which gets underway on Feb 15 (Thursday). Given that the series is currently levelled at 1-1, there is all to play for both sides. Ahead of the third Test, former England Test specialist Ian Bell has praised Ben Stokes-led side and feels they have pushed India on the back foot with their aggressive and fearless approach. The visitors gained a 1-0 lead after winning the first Test in Hyderabad by 28 runs in a remarkable fashion and gave a tough fight in their chase of 399 in the second Test in Visakhapatnam before losing by 106 runs. Speaking to Sky Sports, Bell said, "I suppose the Indian media was very confident that it's going to be 5-0 before the series started. No doubt that this India team is worried about this England side, which is great. I think England have thrown some real punches to push India back." He further opined, "It's going to come down to again, someone like Ollie Pope did in that first game to get a big hundred, that's really important to really put yourself in the game, but they look threatening." Also read: Ind vs Eng: Dhoni had quick hands but Foakes has quickest hands in the game, says England's former stumper Bell feels the Indian team is under pressure and has backed someone in the England line-up to replicate Ollie Pope's heroics from the series opener, where he slammed an impressive 196 in the second innings, and add to India's concerns. “I think the Indian lineup has got amazing amount of talent, but again, there will be doubt there. Not that they don’t have the talent and ability, but I feel there will a bit more pressure at the moment on India. Let’s hope so. But it's in the balance right now. But I think if someone can do what Ollie Pope did in the first Test, we can put pressure on India,” Bell added. The likes of Pope, Tom Hartley (7 for 62 in the final innings of the Hyderabad Test), Zak Crawley (two successive fifties), Stokes (with his aggressive captaincy and vital knocks with the bat) have been England's main performers so far in the series. It will be interesting to see who makes a difference from England in the third Test in Rajkot.

England have thrown some punches to push India back, feels former Test specialist ahead of Rajkot Test

<p>Former England stumper Alec Stewart made a massive statement ahead of the third India-England Test, which gets underway on Feb 15 in Rajkot. Stewart, a veteran of 133 Tests for England (with over 8,000 runs and 277 dismissals in whites), stated that MS Dhoni had quick hands behind the stumps but current English keeper-batter Ben Foakes has 'the quickest hands&nbsp;in the game'.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dhoni ended his international career as one of the greats of the game, known for his captaincy, keeping and finishing skills along with several good performances with the bat in Tests and ODIs. Talking about his wicketkeeping, he ended with 256 catches and 38 stumpings in Tests, 321 catches and 123 stumpings in ODIs, and claimed 57 catches along with 34 stumpings in T20Is. Foakes, on the other hand,&nbsp;has represented England in 22 Tests, claiming 63 catches along with eight stumpings. The right-handed batter has not had&nbsp;much to do with the bat in the ongoing India series, however, he has been a force to reckon with behind the stumps&nbsp;with six dismissals.</p>

<h2><strong>'Foakes does things that no one else can do'</strong></h2>

<p>Foakes has impressed one and all with his keeping skills in India, which is a tough place for any gloveman. Stewart, while talking to the Times, said,&nbsp;"MS Dhoni had quick hands but Foakes has the quickest hands in the game and the ball stays in them. He does things that no one else can do. His hand speed is second to none. He’s got massive natural talent."</p>

<p>"But his work ethic, and attention to detail, are as good as I’ve come across both when I played and since I’ve been in this role [Director of Surrey cricket club]. He leaves no stone unturned. He works on specifics and the quality of the work is impressive,” Stewart further opined.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-aggressive-ben-stokes-will-give-india-a-real-battle-in-last-three-tests-predicts-ian-chappell-689412">Ind vs Eng: Aggressive Ben Stokes will give India a real battle in last three Tests, predicts Ian Chappell</a></strong></p>

<p>Stewart also praised Foakes the batter and added, "People should not underestimate his batting. He averages just shy of 40 in first-class cricket and when he’s played for England he’s been involved in some match-winning partnerships. You need to be not only physically fit and strong, but mentally fit and strong. The biggest thing is, if you miss a chance, how do you deal with it? He’s good at that."</p>

<p>Foakes was involved in a handy 112-run sixth-wicket stand with centurion Ollie Pope (196) in England's second innings of the Hyderabad Test, which the visitors won by 28 runs despite conceding a 190-run lead. The keeper-batter will look to continue his good work behind the stumps and come up with more substantial knocks with the willow in the remaining three Tests.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The five-match series is currently interestingly poised at 1-1.</p>


Former England stumper Alec Stewart made a massive statement ahead of the third India-England Test, which gets underway on Feb 15 in Rajkot. Stewart, a veteran of 133 Tests for England (with over 8,000 runs and 277 dismissals in whites), stated that MS Dhoni had quick hands behind the stumps but current English keeper-batter Ben Foakes has 'the quickest hands in the game'.

Former England stumper Alec Stewart made a massive statement ahead of the third India-England Test, which gets underway on Feb 15 in Rajkot. Stewart, a veteran of 133 Tests for England (with over 8,000 runs and 277 dismissals in whites), stated that MS Dhoni had quick hands behind the stumps but current English keeper-batter Ben Foakes has 'the quickest hands in the game'. Dhoni ended his international career as one of the greats of the game, known for his captaincy, keeping and finishing skills along with several good performances with the bat in Tests and ODIs. Talking about his wicketkeeping, he ended with 256 catches and 38 stumpings in Tests, 321 catches and 123 stumpings in ODIs, and claimed 57 catches along with 34 stumpings in T20Is. Foakes, on the other hand, has represented England in 22 Tests, claiming 63 catches along with eight stumpings. The right-handed batter has not had much to do with the bat in the ongoing India series, however, he has been a force to reckon with behind the stumps with six dismissals. 'Foakes does things that no one else can do' Foakes has impressed one and all with his keeping skills in India, which is a tough place for any gloveman. Stewart, while talking to the Times, said, "MS Dhoni had quick hands but Foakes has the quickest hands in the game and the ball stays in them. He does things that no one else can do. His hand speed is second to none. He’s got massive natural talent." "But his work ethic, and attention to detail, are as good as I’ve come across both when I played and since I’ve been in this role [Director of Surrey cricket club]. He leaves no stone unturned. He works on specifics and the quality of the work is impressive,” Stewart further opined. Also read: Ind vs Eng: Aggressive Ben Stokes will give India a real battle in last three Tests, predicts Ian Chappell Stewart also praised Foakes the batter and added, "People should not underestimate his batting. He averages just shy of 40 in first-class cricket and when he’s played for England he’s been involved in some match-winning partnerships. You need to be not only physically fit and strong, but mentally fit and strong. The biggest thing is, if you miss a chance, how do you deal with it? He’s good at that." Foakes was involved in a handy 112-run sixth-wicket stand with centurion Ollie Pope (196) in England's second innings of the Hyderabad Test, which the visitors won by 28 runs despite conceding a 190-run lead. The keeper-batter will look to continue his good work behind the stumps and come up with more substantial knocks with the willow in the remaining three Tests. The five-match series is currently interestingly poised at 1-1.

Ind vs Eng: Dhoni had quick hands but Foakes has quickest hands in the game, says England's former stumper

<p>India and England are set to lock horns in the third Test, in Rajkot, which gets underway on Feb 15. After the end of the first two Tests, the series is interestingly poised at 1-1. Ahead of the third Test, former Australia captain Ian Chappell feels England captain Ben Stokes' aggressive captaincy will ensure India have a tough time in the last three Tests.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In his column, Chappell wrote, "As the home side India should eventually win a tough series, but it has a real battle on their hands. England under the aggressive leadership of Stokes are a far cry from the poorly captained Joe Root team that capitulated against spin on their last tour of the country. This India versus England contest is shaping up as it should: a tough five-match encounter between two talented sides."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/will-talk-about-bazball-after-series-is-over-says-india-spinner-ravi-ashwin-689178">'Will talk about Bazball after series is over,' says India spinner Ravi Ashwin</a></strong></p>

<p>"Much of England's success has been attributed to Bazball - the desire to score quickly and tactically rattle the opposition - but this is a misnomer. What Stokes has really done is set out to achieve victory from ball one by playing aggressive cricket in all aspects of the game. Stokes has been extremely smart to adopt such an approach and his aggressive tactics have brought England great success in the win column," added Chappell.</p>

<p>England have looked much more&nbsp;confident, relying on their Bazball approach, this time around in India. During their last Test series on Indian soil, the then Joe Root-led England side lost the five-match series 1-3; being clueless against spin and in terms of their strategies. Under Stokes, England have kept India on their toes in both the Tests with their unorthodox field settings, timely bowling changes and positive approach with the bat.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Moreover, injuries and Virat Kohli's absence have also not helped Rohit Sharma-led Indian team's case so far in the series.&nbsp;</p>


India and England are set to lock horns in the third Test, in Rajkot, which gets underway on Feb 15. After the end of the first two Tests, the series is interestingly poised at 1-1.

India and England are set to lock horns in the third Test, in Rajkot, which gets underway on Feb 15. After the end of the first two Tests, the series is interestingly poised at 1-1. Ahead of the third Test, former Australia captain Ian Chappell feels England captain Ben Stokes' aggressive captaincy will ensure India have a tough time in the last three Tests. In his column, Chappell wrote, "As the home side India should eventually win a tough series, but it has a real battle on their hands. England under the aggressive leadership of Stokes are a far cry from the poorly captained Joe Root team that capitulated against spin on their last tour of the country. This India versus England contest is shaping up as it should: a tough five-match encounter between two talented sides." Also read: 'Will talk about Bazball after series is over,' says India spinner Ravi Ashwin "Much of England's success has been attributed to Bazball - the desire to score quickly and tactically rattle the opposition - but this is a misnomer. What Stokes has really done is set out to achieve victory from ball one by playing aggressive cricket in all aspects of the game. Stokes has been extremely smart to adopt such an approach and his aggressive tactics have brought England great success in the win column," added Chappell. England have looked much more confident, relying on their Bazball approach, this time around in India. During their last Test series on Indian soil, the then Joe Root-led England side lost the five-match series 1-3; being clueless against spin and in terms of their strategies. Under Stokes, England have kept India on their toes in both the Tests with their unorthodox field settings, timely bowling changes and positive approach with the bat. Moreover, injuries and Virat Kohli's absence have also not helped Rohit Sharma-led Indian team's case so far in the series.

Ind vs Eng: Aggressive Ben Stokes will give India a real battle in last three Tests, predicts Ian Chappell

<p>The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Saturday (Feb 10) announced the squad for the remaining three matches of the five-match Test series against England with Virat Kohli being a prime exclusion. Virat, who missed the opening two matches will continue to miss the rest of the series with BCCI giving full support to the former India captain. While Ravindra Jadeja and KL Rahul are included in the squad but will have to await medical clearance from the team before stepping back on the field for the third Test in Rajkot which starts on Thursday (Feb 15).</p>

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<h2><strong>Virat to miss Test series</strong></h2>

<p>The BCCI on Saturday officially confirmed&nbsp;Virat’s exclusion from the squad for the remainder of the series. The 35-year-old will miss the series due to personal reasons which means he will have to wait longer to complete 2000 Test runs against England. With&nbsp;1991 runs, Virat had a golden opportunity to get into the 2000-run club by scoring 52 runs and make England his favourite Test opponent.</p>

<p>Another exclusion from the squad is&nbsp;Shreyas Iyer. A&nbsp;back strain&nbsp;has put&nbsp;him out of action for the majority of 2022 and 2023. He also missed the World Test Championship (WTC) final and the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 season due to a back problem. He is&nbsp;expected to return to action during the IPL 2024 season.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-bosses-unconvinced-by-blue-card-plan-after-ifab-sets-for-trail-688782">Premier League: Bosses unconvinced by 'blue card' plan after IFAB sets for trail</a></p>

<p>Ravindra Jadeja and KL Rahul continue to rehab at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru but are included in the squad for the remaining matches. However, their inclusion in the Playing XI will come after a clearance from the medical team. While Jadeja is expected to be fully fit for the fourth Test in Ranchi, Rahul could be available for the Rajkot Test starting&nbsp;Thursday.</p>

<p><strong>Squad:</strong>&nbsp;Rohit Sharma (C), Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, KL Rahul*, Rajat Patidar, Sarfaraz Khan, Dhruv Jurel (WK), KS Bharat (WK), R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja*, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohd. Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Akash Deep&nbsp;</p>


The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Saturday (Feb 10) announced the squad for the remaining three matches of the five-match Test series against England with Virat Kohli being a prime exclusion.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Saturday (Feb 10) announced the squad for the remaining three matches of the five-match Test series against England with Virat Kohli being a prime exclusion. Virat, who missed the opening two matches will continue to miss the rest of the series with BCCI giving full support to the former India captain. While Ravindra Jadeja and KL Rahul are included in the squad but will have to await medical clearance from the team before stepping back on the field for the third Test in Rajkot which starts on Thursday (Feb 15). 🚨 NEWS 🚨#TeamIndia's Squad for final three Tests against England announced. Details 🔽 #INDvENG | @IDFCFIRSTBankhttps://t.co/JPXnyD4WBK — BCCI (@BCCI) February 10, 2024 × Virat to miss Test series The BCCI on Saturday officially confirmed Virat’s exclusion from the squad for the remainder of the series. The 35-year-old will miss the series due to personal reasons which means he will have to wait longer to complete 2000 Test runs against England. With 1991 runs, Virat had a golden opportunity to get into the 2000-run club by scoring 52 runs and make England his favourite Test opponent. Another exclusion from the squad is Shreyas Iyer. A back strain has put him out of action for the majority of 2022 and 2023. He also missed the World Test Championship (WTC) final and the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 season due to a back problem. He is expected to return to action during the IPL 2024 season. ALSO READ | Premier League: Bosses unconvinced by 'blue card' plan after IFAB sets for trail Ravindra Jadeja and KL Rahul continue to rehab at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru but are included in the squad for the remaining matches. However, their inclusion in the Playing XI will come after a clearance from the medical team. While Jadeja is expected to be fully fit for the fourth Test in Ranchi, Rahul could be available for the Rajkot Test starting Thursday. Squad: Rohit Sharma (C), Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, KL Rahul*, Rajat Patidar, Sarfaraz Khan, Dhruv Jurel (WK), KS Bharat (WK), R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja*, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohd. Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Akash Deep

IND vs ENG: Virat to miss remainder of series due to personal reason; Jadeja, Rahul await fitness clearance

<p>After much anticipation and less than a week to go for the start of the third Test match in Rajkot, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced the squad for the remainder of the Test series against England on Saturday (Feb 10). The BCCI had some hard decisions in hand before they announced the squad for the remaining three matches with Virat Kohli, Ravindra Jadeja and KL Rahul in doubt for several reasons. However, by Saturday afternoon, it was reported that Shreyas Iyer, who like Virat is not part of the Test series anymore, is not injured but has been dropped from the squad.</p>

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<h2><strong>Shreyas Iyer dropped</strong></h2>

<p>Shreyas Iyer was reported to have suffered another injury scare and was to miss the remaining Test series. However, according to&nbsp;PTI, Shreyas was axed from the squad for poor performances and is fit to play. Shreyas has been suffering a recurrence of back injury in recent times but was still in the frame to play all the matches in the England tour.</p>

<p>His performances in the last few innings have seen him score 191 runs in nine innings, a poor return for the Mumbai batter. With Rajat Patidar and Sarfaraz Khan also in the squad, it is expected that Shreyas’ form will become a huge worrying sign for him and the selectors have finally pulled their trigger to axe the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) captain.</p>

<h2><strong>Virat to miss Test series</strong></h2>

<p>A huge doubt for the remaining three Test matches, the BCCI on Saturday officially confirmed Virat’s exclusion from the squad for the remainder of the series. The 35-year-old will miss the series due to personal reasons which means he will have to wait longer to complete 2000 Test runs against England. He has 1991 runs and had a golden opportunity to get into the 2000-run club while he needed just 52 runs to make England his favourite Test opponent.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dale-steyn-throws-weight-behind-virat-kohli-for-skipping-england-tests-says-family-is-priority-688751">Dale Steyn throws weight behind Virat Kohli for skipping England Tests, says ‘family is priority’</a></p>

<p>Ravindra Jadeja and KL Rahul continue to rehab at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru but are included in the squad for the remaining matches. However, their inclusion in the Playing XI will come after a clearance from the medical team. While Jadeja is expected to be fully fit for the fourth Test in Ranchi, Rahul could be available for the Rajkot Test starting on Thursday.</p>

<p>Squad: Rohit Sharma (C), Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, KL Rahul*, Rajat Patidar, Sarfaraz Khan, Dhruv Jurel (WK), KS Bharat (WK), R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja*, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohd. Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Akash Deep</p>


After much anticipation and less than a week to go for the start of the third Test match in Rajkot, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced the squad for the remainder of the Test series against England on Saturday (Feb 10).

After much anticipation and less than a week to go for the start of the third Test match in Rajkot, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced the squad for the remainder of the Test series against England on Saturday (Feb 10). The BCCI had some hard decisions in hand before they announced the squad for the remaining three matches with Virat Kohli, Ravindra Jadeja and KL Rahul in doubt for several reasons. However, by Saturday afternoon, it was reported that Shreyas Iyer, who like Virat is not part of the Test series anymore, is not injured but has been dropped from the squad. 🚨 NEWS 🚨#TeamIndia's Squad for final three Tests against England announced. Details 🔽 #INDvENG | @IDFCFIRSTBankhttps://t.co/JPXnyD4WBK — BCCI (@BCCI) February 10, 2024 × Shreyas Iyer dropped Shreyas Iyer was reported to have suffered another injury scare and was to miss the remaining Test series. However, according to PTI, Shreyas was axed from the squad for poor performances and is fit to play. Shreyas has been suffering a recurrence of back injury in recent times but was still in the frame to play all the matches in the England tour. His performances in the last few innings have seen him score 191 runs in nine innings, a poor return for the Mumbai batter. With Rajat Patidar and Sarfaraz Khan also in the squad, it is expected that Shreyas’ form will become a huge worrying sign for him and the selectors have finally pulled their trigger to axe the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) captain. Virat to miss Test series A huge doubt for the remaining three Test matches, the BCCI on Saturday officially confirmed Virat’s exclusion from the squad for the remainder of the series. The 35-year-old will miss the series due to personal reasons which means he will have to wait longer to complete 2000 Test runs against England. He has 1991 runs and had a golden opportunity to get into the 2000-run club while he needed just 52 runs to make England his favourite Test opponent. ALSO READ | Dale Steyn throws weight behind Virat Kohli for skipping England Tests, says ‘family is priority’ Ravindra Jadeja and KL Rahul continue to rehab at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru but are included in the squad for the remaining matches. However, their inclusion in the Playing XI will come after a clearance from the medical team. While Jadeja is expected to be fully fit for the fourth Test in Ranchi, Rahul could be available for the Rajkot Test starting on Thursday. Squad: Rohit Sharma (C), Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, KL Rahul*, Rajat Patidar, Sarfaraz Khan, Dhruv Jurel (WK), KS Bharat (WK), R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja*, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohd. Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Akash Deep

IND vs ENG: Not injured but Shreyas Iyer ‘axed’ from India’s squad for remainder of England series - Reports

<p>Former England captain Michael Vaughan has praised India’s rising star Yashasvi Jaiswal after playing an important role in India’s crucial win in the second Test match in Vizag.&nbsp;Yashasvi Jaiswal, having scored 209 in the match set the tone for India to&nbsp;beat England by 106 runs and level the series. While Jasprit Bumrah took the Player of the Match award, it was Jaiswal’s innings that was the difference-maker as India came back in the five-match Test series against England.</p>

<h2><strong>Vaughan full of praise for Jaiswal</strong></h2>

<p>"I would say he is a problem for England. He is an issue. He is an unbelievable player. I met him in Mumbai and he got a hundred the next day in the IPL. Now he has gone on to score a double-hundred against the best team in the world," Vaughan said while in conversation on the Club Prairie Fire podcast.</p>

<p>India lost the opening Test match in Hyderabad and needed a win to avoid a do-or-die situation in the rest of the series. The Mumbai batter was at his fluent best in the first innings of the Vizag Test which helped India score 396 before wrapping England out to take a healthy first innings lead. The hosts did not repeat the mistakes from their first encounter and registered the win against England’s bazball approach.</p>

<p>Jaiswal in his brief Test career already has two hundreds and two fifties and has established himself as one of the first names on the team sheet. He was part of the Indian team that won the Asian Games Gold medal and is now on the verge of becoming the next all-format player with an ODI call now imminent. He has already played in T20Is and Tests and will look for further accomplishment with the T20 World Cup fast approaching.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dale-steyn-throws-weight-behind-virat-kohli-for-skipping-england-tests-says-family-is-priority-688751">Dale Steyn throws weight behind Virat Kohli for skipping England Tests, says ‘family is priority’</a></p>

<h2><strong>India look to win the series without Virat Kohli</strong></h2>

<p>While Jaiswal has taken the spotlight with the bat, the Indian team is still missing the services of Virat Kohli. Earlier in the day it was announced that Virat won’t play in any of the remaining three Test matches due to personal issues. He was not included in the Indian squad for the remaining matches while Ravindra Jadeja and KL Rahul are subject to fitness clearance from the team doctors.</p>

<p>Both India and England next meet on Thursday (Feb 15) in Rajkot.</p>


Former England captain Michael Vaughan has praised India’s rising star Yashasvi Jaiswal after playing an important role in India’s crucial win in the second Test match in Vizag.

Former England captain Michael Vaughan has praised India’s rising star Yashasvi Jaiswal after playing an important role in India’s crucial win in the second Test match in Vizag. Yashasvi Jaiswal, having scored 209 in the match set the tone for India to beat England by 106 runs and level the series. While Jasprit Bumrah took the Player of the Match award, it was Jaiswal’s innings that was the difference-maker as India came back in the five-match Test series against England. Vaughan full of praise for Jaiswal "I would say he is a problem for England. He is an issue. He is an unbelievable player. I met him in Mumbai and he got a hundred the next day in the IPL. Now he has gone on to score a double-hundred against the best team in the world," Vaughan said while in conversation on the Club Prairie Fire podcast. India lost the opening Test match in Hyderabad and needed a win to avoid a do-or-die situation in the rest of the series. The Mumbai batter was at his fluent best in the first innings of the Vizag Test which helped India score 396 before wrapping England out to take a healthy first innings lead. The hosts did not repeat the mistakes from their first encounter and registered the win against England’s bazball approach. Jaiswal in his brief Test career already has two hundreds and two fifties and has established himself as one of the first names on the team sheet. He was part of the Indian team that won the Asian Games Gold medal and is now on the verge of becoming the next all-format player with an ODI call now imminent. He has already played in T20Is and Tests and will look for further accomplishment with the T20 World Cup fast approaching. ALSO READ | Dale Steyn throws weight behind Virat Kohli for skipping England Tests, says ‘family is priority’ India look to win the series without Virat Kohli While Jaiswal has taken the spotlight with the bat, the Indian team is still missing the services of Virat Kohli. Earlier in the day it was announced that Virat won’t play in any of the remaining three Test matches due to personal issues. He was not included in the Indian squad for the remaining matches while Ravindra Jadeja and KL Rahul are subject to fitness clearance from the team doctors. Both India and England next meet on Thursday (Feb 15) in Rajkot.

IND vs ENG: Former England captain Michael Vaughan heaps praise on Vizag hero Yashasvi Jaiswal

<p>Former South Africa bowler and pace sensation Dale Steyn&nbsp;heaped praise on pacer Jasprit Bumrah, who guided India to victory in the ongoing Test series against England. Bumrah, player of the match in the second Test in Vizag helped India go level in the three-match series. His performance also saw him take the top spot in the ICC Test bowlers ranking and becoming&nbsp;the first Indian to achieve the feat. According to Steyn, Bumrah has all the tools to succeed on any given track.</p>

<h2><strong>Steyn praises Bumrah</strong></h2>

<p>“I don't think there's any Test bowlers right now who are able to run in and bowl essentially wicket-taking yorkers," said Steyn.</p>

<p>"To take wickets in Test matches, there are probably a handful of guys who could do that. Trent Boult was one of that, Mitchell Starc maybe. And obviously, Bumrah," he added.</p>

<p>In 2022, Bumrah missed the T20 World Cup due to a shoulder issue and was out of action during the 2023 Indian Premier League (IPL). Bumrah’s absence was a major miss for the national team as they lacked his experience in crucial matches.</p>

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<p>“All round he's a fantastic bowler. And it's no surprise with his skiddy kind of action that he's got that. He takes wickets on those docile pitches, so he's fantastic," Steyn further said.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/golf-bankers-warn-saudis-of-facing-possible-prison-time-for-aiding-pga-liv-probe-688604">Golf: Bankers warn Saudis of facing possible prison time for aiding PGA-LIV probe</a></p>

<p>Bumrah returned to action during the Ireland tour last year after staying away from cricket for a long time due to injuries.&nbsp;After recovering ahead of the ODI World Cup, he was one of the first names on the team sheet before Mohammed Shami became the ace bowler with his match-winning spells.</p>

<p>So far in the ongoing Test series against England, he has scalped 15 wickets making him India’s main frontline bowler in the absence of Shami. His spell of 45/6 in the first innings of the Vizag Test set the tone for India’s win against England.</p>

<p>The win in Vizag also saw India level the series at 1-1 having earlier lost the first Test in Hyderabad by 28 runs. The two teams will next meet on Thursday (Feb 15) in the third Test in Rajkot with Mohammed Siraj also likely to make his return to the side.</p>


Former South Africa bowler and pace sensation Dale Steyn heaped praise on pacer Jasprit Bumrah, who guided India to victory in the ongoing Test series against England.

Former South Africa bowler and pace sensation Dale Steyn heaped praise on pacer Jasprit Bumrah, who guided India to victory in the ongoing Test series against England. Bumrah, player of the match in the second Test in Vizag helped India go level in the three-match series. His performance also saw him take the top spot in the ICC Test bowlers ranking and becoming the first Indian to achieve the feat. According to Steyn, Bumrah has all the tools to succeed on any given track. Steyn praises Bumrah “I don't think there's any Test bowlers right now who are able to run in and bowl essentially wicket-taking yorkers," said Steyn. "To take wickets in Test matches, there are probably a handful of guys who could do that. Trent Boult was one of that, Mitchell Starc maybe. And obviously, Bumrah," he added. In 2022, Bumrah missed the T20 World Cup due to a shoulder issue and was out of action during the 2023 Indian Premier League (IPL). Bumrah’s absence was a major miss for the national team as they lacked his experience in crucial matches. × “All round he's a fantastic bowler. And it's no surprise with his skiddy kind of action that he's got that. He takes wickets on those docile pitches, so he's fantastic," Steyn further said. ALSO READ | Golf: Bankers warn Saudis of facing possible prison time for aiding PGA-LIV probe Bumrah returned to action during the Ireland tour last year after staying away from cricket for a long time due to injuries. After recovering ahead of the ODI World Cup, he was one of the first names on the team sheet before Mohammed Shami became the ace bowler with his match-winning spells. So far in the ongoing Test series against England, he has scalped 15 wickets making him India’s main frontline bowler in the absence of Shami. His spell of 45/6 in the first innings of the Vizag Test set the tone for India’s win against England. The win in Vizag also saw India level the series at 1-1 having earlier lost the first Test in Hyderabad by 28 runs. The two teams will next meet on Thursday (Feb 15) in the third Test in Rajkot with Mohammed Siraj also likely to make his return to the side.

IND vs ENG: 'He takes wickets on docile pitches', says Dale Steyn about Jasprit Burmah

<p>Former England captain Michael Atherton opened up on Ben Stokes' struggle&nbsp;against Jasprit Bumrah in the ongoing five Tests in India.&nbsp;The Indian speedster has already accounted for Stokes' wickets twice in the first two Tests,. He had never dismissed Stokes in six Tests prior to the series but got him&nbsp;twice in the series so far. Atherton believes Stokes has not been able to pick up the pace of the ball against Bumrah.</p>

<p>Talking to Sky Cricket, Atherton pointed out, "Picking with the speed of the ball is tough with him, and I’ve noticed with Stokes, even Stokes actually is an excellent player of fast bowling. He’s hurried with Bumrah."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kohli-propelled-them-to-learn-and-get-better-philander-on-indian-pacers-rise-thrilled-for-bumrahs-success-688249">Kohli propelled them to learn and get better: Philander on Indian pacers' rise, thrilled for Bumrah's success</a></strong></p>

<p>He added, "He struggles to pick up the pace, and a couple of times when he’s got him, it looks as though the ball has kept low, which has but it also almost beaten him for pace as well. I think that’s the issue with Bumrah."</p>

<p>Stokes has been among runs in the series but not been&nbsp;at his dominant best. He has 134 runs in four outings, with a best of 70 in the Hyderabad Test. Meanwhile, Bumrah is the leading wicket-taker of the series with 15 scalps under his belt. He won the Player-of-the-Match award in India's series-levelling 106-run win in the second Test in Visakhapatnam.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Stokes versus Bumrah rivalry resumes in the third Test, which gets underway on Feb 15 in Rajkot. It will be interesting to see if the English captain manages to weather the Bumrah storm.</p>


Former England captain Michael Atherton opened up on Ben Stokes' struggle against Jasprit Bumrah in the ongoing five Tests in India. The Indian speedster has already accounted for Stokes' wickets twice in the first two Tests,.

Former England captain Michael Atherton opened up on Ben Stokes' struggle against Jasprit Bumrah in the ongoing five Tests in India. The Indian speedster has already accounted for Stokes' wickets twice in the first two Tests,. He had never dismissed Stokes in six Tests prior to the series but got him twice in the series so far. Atherton believes Stokes has not been able to pick up the pace of the ball against Bumrah. Talking to Sky Cricket, Atherton pointed out, "Picking with the speed of the ball is tough with him, and I’ve noticed with Stokes, even Stokes actually is an excellent player of fast bowling. He’s hurried with Bumrah." Also read: Kohli propelled them to learn and get better: Philander on Indian pacers' rise, thrilled for Bumrah's success He added, "He struggles to pick up the pace, and a couple of times when he’s got him, it looks as though the ball has kept low, which has but it also almost beaten him for pace as well. I think that’s the issue with Bumrah." Stokes has been among runs in the series but not been at his dominant best. He has 134 runs in four outings, with a best of 70 in the Hyderabad Test. Meanwhile, Bumrah is the leading wicket-taker of the series with 15 scalps under his belt. He won the Player-of-the-Match award in India's series-levelling 106-run win in the second Test in Visakhapatnam. The Stokes versus Bumrah rivalry resumes in the third Test, which gets underway on Feb 15 in Rajkot. It will be interesting to see if the English captain manages to weather the Bumrah storm.

Ind vs Eng: Michael Atherton reasons why Ben Stokes has struggled against in-form Jasprit Bumrah

<p>Former Australia captain Michael Anderson has heaped praise on India’s star bowler Jasprit Bumrah after he clinched the top spot in the ICC Test bowler’s rankings on Wednesday (Feb 7). Bumrah, who has been troubled with injuries in recent times, has regained his top form in the ongoing Test series against England having scalped 15 wickets. Clarke also praised James Anderson for his fitness and performance at 41 while calling Bumrah a freak.</p>

<h2><strong>Clarke in awe of Bumrah</strong></h2>

<p>"James Anderson, with the ball was phenomenal in the 2nd Test, on a flat batting pitch that did not have much for the fast bowlers. And Bumrah, what can you say! He is a freak. His skill use in conditions that are not conducive to fast-bowling, uff, it's unbelievable. He is a freak," Michael Clarke told ESPN.</p>

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<p>In 2022, Bumrah missed the T20 World Cup due to a shoulder issue and was out of action during the 2023 Indian Premier League (IPL). The speedster’s absence was a major miss for the national team as they lacked his experience in crucial matches. Bumrah scalped nine wickets in the second Test match and has been India’s top asset despite missing the services of Mohammed Siraj and Mohammed Shami in the Vizag Test.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-v-eng-ab-de-villiers-lauds-indias-bowling-attack-for-setting-up-wickets-for-jasprit-bumrah-in-vizag-688221">IND v ENG: AB de Villiers lauds India’s bowling attack for setting up wickets for Jasprit Bumrah in Vizag</a></p>

<p>"A big part of greatness is longevity, no matter what you do. He has gone through those highs and lows. Yes, he has had some injuries. But, to be able to play this amount of cricket over that amount of time is phenomenal. Again, I think he showed his class and skill in that Test match," Clarke added.</p>

<p>Bumrah’s spell of 45/6 in the first innings of the Vizag Test set the tone for India’s win against England. The&nbsp;Vizag victory also saw India level the series at 1-1 having earlier lost the first Test in Hyderabad by 28 runs. The two teams will next meet on Thursday (Feb 15) in the third Test in Rajkot with Mohammed Siraj&nbsp;likely to make his return to the side.</p>


Former Australia captain Michael Anderson has heaped praise on India’s star bowler Jasprit Bumrah after he clinched the top spot in the ICC Test bowler’s rankings on Wednesday (Feb 7).

Former Australia captain Michael Anderson has heaped praise on India’s star bowler Jasprit Bumrah after he clinched the top spot in the ICC Test bowler’s rankings on Wednesday (Feb 7). Bumrah, who has been troubled with injuries in recent times, has regained his top form in the ongoing Test series against England having scalped 15 wickets. Clarke also praised James Anderson for his fitness and performance at 41 while calling Bumrah a freak. Clarke in awe of Bumrah "James Anderson, with the ball was phenomenal in the 2nd Test, on a flat batting pitch that did not have much for the fast bowlers. And Bumrah, what can you say! He is a freak. His skill use in conditions that are not conducive to fast-bowling, uff, it's unbelievable. He is a freak," Michael Clarke told ESPN. × In 2022, Bumrah missed the T20 World Cup due to a shoulder issue and was out of action during the 2023 Indian Premier League (IPL). The speedster’s absence was a major miss for the national team as they lacked his experience in crucial matches. Bumrah scalped nine wickets in the second Test match and has been India’s top asset despite missing the services of Mohammed Siraj and Mohammed Shami in the Vizag Test. ALSO READ | IND v ENG: AB de Villiers lauds India’s bowling attack for setting up wickets for Jasprit Bumrah in Vizag "A big part of greatness is longevity, no matter what you do. He has gone through those highs and lows. Yes, he has had some injuries. But, to be able to play this amount of cricket over that amount of time is phenomenal. Again, I think he showed his class and skill in that Test match," Clarke added. Bumrah’s spell of 45/6 in the first innings of the Vizag Test set the tone for India’s win against England. The Vizag victory also saw India level the series at 1-1 having earlier lost the first Test in Hyderabad by 28 runs. The two teams will next meet on Thursday (Feb 15) in the third Test in Rajkot with Mohammed Siraj likely to make his return to the side.

IND vs ENG: Michael Clarke in awe of Jasprit Bumrah after Vizag heroics, says 'he is a freak'

<p>The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to announce India's squad for the remaining three Tests versus England in the coming days. After the first two Tests, the series is interestingly poised at 1-1 with all to play for in the final three games. All eyes are on Virat Kohli's availability, injured trio of KL Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja and Mohammed Shami and Mohammed Siraj's return.</p>

<p>While there has been news around Jadeja, Siraj and Rahul's return, there are wide speculations that Kohli will miss the next two Tests as well or the entire series. The former Indian captain had marked himself unavailable ahead of the series due to personal reasons and nothing is known regarding his comeback. Now, former English captain-turned-commentator Nasser Hussain opened up on Kohli's likely absence from the entire series and feels it is a 'big blow for India and world cricket' if the star player misses out.</p>

<p>Speaking on Sky Sports, Hussain said, "Yeah, well, nothing's confirmed at the moment. There's speculation, whether it's the next two Test matches, they're going to announce their side in the next few hours. Whether it's the next three Test matches, so nothing's confirmed, but it will be a blow.</p>

<p>“It'll be a blow for India. It'll be a blow for the series. It'll be a blow for world cricket. It's going to be a special series. It already has been. The first two games have been fascinating."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-root-lauds-rohit-and-kohli-says-visitors-eager-to-keep-them-quiet-throughout-the-series-687867">Ind vs Eng: Root lauds Rohit and Kohli, says visitors eager to keep them quiet in the series</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>'We don't have the mouthwatering possibility of an Anderson-Kohli contest, but family comes first'</strong></h2>

<p>In addition, Hussain lauded&nbsp;Kohli and stated that he deserves time away from the game having served his nation for more than one and a half decades with aplomb. The Englishman opined, "And make no mistake, Kohli is one of the greatest batters to ever play the game and any series and any side would miss someone of the stature of Kohli. But first things first, and the game needs to look after the likes of Kohli as well. He's been playing international cricket for more than 15 years now, and if he needs a break to be away with family, just some time away from the game."</p>

<p>He added, "We wish Kohli all the best. It means we don't have the mouthwatering possibility of an Anderson-Kohli contest like we've seen over the years, so be it. But you know, Kohli and his family and his private life have to come first. So it's a blow for India. But as we've seen, they've got a lot of very good young batters and again speculating, KL Rahul, who was injured for the last game and has played brilliantly in the last few months for India in all formats, will come back in, so he'll add to their batting."</p>

<p>India's squad for the remaining three Tests should be out before the end of this week. The third Test kicks off on Feb 15 in Rajkot.&nbsp;</p>


The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to announce India's squad for the remaining three Tests versus England in the coming days. After the first two Tests, the series is interestingly poised at 1-1 with all to play for in the final three games.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to announce India's squad for the remaining three Tests versus England in the coming days. After the first two Tests, the series is interestingly poised at 1-1 with all to play for in the final three games. All eyes are on Virat Kohli's availability, injured trio of KL Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja and Mohammed Shami and Mohammed Siraj's return. While there has been news around Jadeja, Siraj and Rahul's return, there are wide speculations that Kohli will miss the next two Tests as well or the entire series. The former Indian captain had marked himself unavailable ahead of the series due to personal reasons and nothing is known regarding his comeback. Now, former English captain-turned-commentator Nasser Hussain opened up on Kohli's likely absence from the entire series and feels it is a 'big blow for India and world cricket' if the star player misses out. Speaking on Sky Sports, Hussain said, "Yeah, well, nothing's confirmed at the moment. There's speculation, whether it's the next two Test matches, they're going to announce their side in the next few hours. Whether it's the next three Test matches, so nothing's confirmed, but it will be a blow. “It'll be a blow for India. It'll be a blow for the series. It'll be a blow for world cricket. It's going to be a special series. It already has been. The first two games have been fascinating." Also read: Ind vs Eng: Root lauds Rohit and Kohli, says visitors eager to keep them quiet in the series 'We don't have the mouthwatering possibility of an Anderson-Kohli contest, but family comes first' In addition, Hussain lauded Kohli and stated that he deserves time away from the game having served his nation for more than one and a half decades with aplomb. The Englishman opined, "And make no mistake, Kohli is one of the greatest batters to ever play the game and any series and any side would miss someone of the stature of Kohli. But first things first, and the game needs to look after the likes of Kohli as well. He's been playing international cricket for more than 15 years now, and if he needs a break to be away with family, just some time away from the game." He added, "We wish Kohli all the best. It means we don't have the mouthwatering possibility of an Anderson-Kohli contest like we've seen over the years, so be it. But you know, Kohli and his family and his private life have to come first. So it's a blow for India. But as we've seen, they've got a lot of very good young batters and again speculating, KL Rahul, who was injured for the last game and has played brilliantly in the last few months for India in all formats, will come back in, so he'll add to their batting." India's squad for the remaining three Tests should be out before the end of this week. The third Test kicks off on Feb 15 in Rajkot.

Blow for India and world cricket: Nasser Hussain on Virat Kohli likely to miss entire Test series vs England

<p>India’s star batter Virat Kohli is likely to miss the upcoming third and fourth Tests against England as his anticipated return now gets prolonged. Virat, who missed the opening two Test matches against England in Hyderabad and Vizag was likely to return for the third Test in Rajkot, however, according to the latest reports he won’t be available for the crucial third Test starting on Thursday (Feb 15). However, India could be boosted by the return of Mohammed Siraj, who is fit and ready to start in the bowling department.</p>

<h2><strong>Virat to likely to miss upcoming Tests</strong></h2>

<p>Having missed the opening two Tests due to “personal reasons” it was likely that Virat could return for the remaining three matches. However, according to ESPNcricinfo, Virat will probably miss the third and fourth Tests in Rajkot and Ranchi respectively while he is also unlikely to be available for the fifth Test in Dharamsala which starts on March 7.</p>

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<p>His continued absence will be a big blow for Team India as they are already without the services of KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja in the batting unit. Both Jadeja and Rahul were injured after the first and second Test matches respectively. Shubman Gill is another player who has been troubled with injuries and is closely monitored by the team management.</p>

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<p>Jadeja is currently in the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru where he is in rehabilitation and expects to be fit for the Rajkot Test. Rahul is also hoping for the same with the third Test not starting for another week.</p>

<p>In a major boost for the hosts, Siraj is likely to return having stayed away from action during the Vizag Test. His return will be a major boost for the side with India already without the services of Mohammed Shami. If Siraj is included, Mukesh Kumar is the most likely player to make way for him.</p>

<p>Currently, the five-match Test series is level at 1-1 with India coming back into the series with a 106-run win in Vizag on Monday. The hosts had earlier lost a close contest in Hyderabad where they were beaten by 28 runs despite having a lead of 190 runs at the end of the first innings.</p>


India’s star batter Virat Kohli is likely to miss the upcoming third and fourth Tests against England as his anticipated return now gets prolonged. Virat, who missed the opening two Test matches against England in Hyderabad and Vizag was likely to return for the third Test in Rajkot, however, according to the latest reports he won’t be available for the crucial third Test starting on Thursday (Feb 15).

India’s star batter Virat Kohli is likely to miss the upcoming third and fourth Tests against England as his anticipated return now gets prolonged. Virat, who missed the opening two Test matches against England in Hyderabad and Vizag was likely to return for the third Test in Rajkot, however, according to the latest reports he won’t be available for the crucial third Test starting on Thursday (Feb 15). However, India could be boosted by the return of Mohammed Siraj, who is fit and ready to start in the bowling department. Virat to likely to miss upcoming Tests Having missed the opening two Tests due to “personal reasons” it was likely that Virat could return for the remaining three matches. However, according to ESPNcricinfo, Virat will probably miss the third and fourth Tests in Rajkot and Ranchi respectively while he is also unlikely to be available for the fifth Test in Dharamsala which starts on March 7. × His continued absence will be a big blow for Team India as they are already without the services of KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja in the batting unit. Both Jadeja and Rahul were injured after the first and second Test matches respectively. Shubman Gill is another player who has been troubled with injuries and is closely monitored by the team management. ALSO READ | IPL 2024: DC coach Ricky Ponting 'not quite sure yet' about Rishabh Pant's role in upcoming season Jadeja is currently in the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru where he is in rehabilitation and expects to be fit for the Rajkot Test. Rahul is also hoping for the same with the third Test not starting for another week. In a major boost for the hosts, Siraj is likely to return having stayed away from action during the Vizag Test. His return will be a major boost for the side with India already without the services of Mohammed Shami. If Siraj is included, Mukesh Kumar is the most likely player to make way for him. Currently, the five-match Test series is level at 1-1 with India coming back into the series with a 106-run win in Vizag on Monday. The hosts had earlier lost a close contest in Hyderabad where they were beaten by 28 runs despite having a lead of 190 runs at the end of the first innings.

IND vs ENG: Virat Kohli to miss Rajkot, Ranchi Tests; Mohammed Siraj set for return - Report

<p>Former England captain Ian Botham has credited the English side for reviving the fortunes of Test cricket as Ben Stokes’ men continue to play an aggressive brand of cricket. Termed “Bazball’ after Brendon McCullum took over the charge&nbsp;of the English side as head coach in 2022, the fast-attacking cricket has seen fans once again attracted towards the red-ball format despite the rise of T20 leagues like Indian Premier League (IPL) and the Big Bash League (BBL).</p>

<h2><strong>Botham in awe of Bazball</strong></h2>

<p>"You just have to look at the crowds. The crowds are now starting to come back to Test cricket," Botham told 'SENQ 693'. "Playing against India 20-30 years ago in India, the grounds were heaving. Suddenly, the IPL came along and so did one-day cricket and the crowds then plummeted. People are now coming back and wanting to see (Bazball)."</p>

<p>"You are entertainers at the end of the day and if you want people to come to the games, you have to entertain. They don't want to see someone score 1.2 runs per hour, you want to see guys just boss the game."</p>

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<p>"You are going to lose one or two games here or there but England have played 15 and won 12. England sells out games across all five days now which was just unheard of."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2024-dc-coach-ricky-ponting-not-quite-sure-yet-about-rishabh-pants-role-in-upcoming-season-687778">IPL 2024: DC coach Ricky Ponting 'not quite sure yet' about Rishabh Pant's role in upcoming season</a></p>

<p>Since 2022, England are yet to lose a Test series having enjoyed a stellar run during the last couple of years. Their great run has seen them demolish teams like New Zealand, Pakistan and India while they have drawn against Australia in the Ashes. Ben Stoke has been the central figure during the fast-attacking style of cricket and has successfully led the side during the tenure.</p>

<p>Having already won a series in the sub-continent in Pakistan under Stokes’ captaincy England are looking to repeat the trick in India. Currently, they are level at 1-1 in the five-match Test series having won the opening Test in Hyderabad. Their luck ran out in the second Test match in Vizag where they lost by 106 runs as hosts India mounted a comeback.</p>

<p>The two nations are now scheduled to meet again next Thursday (Feb 15) in the third Test match in Rajkot where both India and England will look to take a vital lead in the series.</p>


Former England captain Ian Botham has credited the English side for reviving the fortunes of Test cricket as Ben Stokes’ men continue to play an aggressive brand of cricket.

Former England captain Ian Botham has credited the English side for reviving the fortunes of Test cricket as Ben Stokes’ men continue to play an aggressive brand of cricket. Termed “Bazball’ after Brendon McCullum took over the charge of the English side as head coach in 2022, the fast-attacking cricket has seen fans once again attracted towards the red-ball format despite the rise of T20 leagues like Indian Premier League (IPL) and the Big Bash League (BBL). Botham in awe of Bazball "You just have to look at the crowds. The crowds are now starting to come back to Test cricket," Botham told 'SENQ 693'. "Playing against India 20-30 years ago in India, the grounds were heaving. Suddenly, the IPL came along and so did one-day cricket and the crowds then plummeted. People are now coming back and wanting to see (Bazball)." "You are entertainers at the end of the day and if you want people to come to the games, you have to entertain. They don't want to see someone score 1.2 runs per hour, you want to see guys just boss the game." × "You are going to lose one or two games here or there but England have played 15 and won 12. England sells out games across all five days now which was just unheard of." ALSO READ | IPL 2024: DC coach Ricky Ponting 'not quite sure yet' about Rishabh Pant's role in upcoming season Since 2022, England are yet to lose a Test series having enjoyed a stellar run during the last couple of years. Their great run has seen them demolish teams like New Zealand, Pakistan and India while they have drawn against Australia in the Ashes. Ben Stoke has been the central figure during the fast-attacking style of cricket and has successfully led the side during the tenure. Having already won a series in the sub-continent in Pakistan under Stokes’ captaincy England are looking to repeat the trick in India. Currently, they are level at 1-1 in the five-match Test series having won the opening Test in Hyderabad. Their luck ran out in the second Test match in Vizag where they lost by 106 runs as hosts India mounted a comeback. The two nations are now scheduled to meet again next Thursday (Feb 15) in the third Test match in Rajkot where both India and England will look to take a vital lead in the series.

IND vs ENG: Former England captain Ian Botham credits 'Bazball' for reviving fortunes of Test cricket

<p>Former England Test captain Joe Root lauded Indian superstars Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, heaping praise on the duo's experience and hopes the visitors can keep them quiet in the series. Root feels Rohit and Kohli have a big role to play within the current Indian setup and pointed out how the two can score big, hence, England need to get rid of them as early as possible. So far, Rohit has managed just 90 runs in four innings, with a best of 39, whereas Kohli missed the first two games and is expected to feature in the remainder of the series.</p>

<p>While speaking to JioCinema and Sports18, Root stated, "You mentioned two of the greats of the modern era. Of course, there’s going to be focus. We know how good they are and they are also very senior within this current Indian batting lineup. So clearly they’ve got a big role to play within this Test team. You want to make sure that you try and get on top of them early. They’ve got the ability to get big scores and we’ve been on the wrong end of that a few times, so it would be nice to try and keep them as quiet as we can throughout the series."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/we-dont-do-team-meeting-anymore-reveals-former-england-skipper-joe-root-687789">'We don't do team meeting anymore,' reveals former England skipper Joe Root</a></strong></p>

<p>Rohit-led India drew the five-match series with a 106-run win over England in the second Test in Visakhapatnam on Monday (Feb 5). Both sides have several days off before they lock horns for the third Test, in Rajkot, which gets underway on Feb 15. India's squad for the remainder of the series is expected to be out soon and there is a lot of hype around it, with the likely return of Kohli. Kohli missed the first two Tests due to personal reasons and there have been no updates regarding his availability for the final three games.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Root has blown hot and cold with the bat in the ongoing series. He has managed scores of 29, 2, 5 and 16 in four outings but accounted for five dismissals. He will look to go big in the third Test with the series tantalisingly poised at 1-1.</p>


Former England Test captain Joe Root lauded Indian superstars Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, heaping praise on the duo's experience and hopes the visitors can keep them quiet in the series.

Former England Test captain Joe Root lauded Indian superstars Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, heaping praise on the duo's experience and hopes the visitors can keep them quiet in the series. Root feels Rohit and Kohli have a big role to play within the current Indian setup and pointed out how the two can score big, hence, England need to get rid of them as early as possible. So far, Rohit has managed just 90 runs in four innings, with a best of 39, whereas Kohli missed the first two games and is expected to feature in the remainder of the series. While speaking to JioCinema and Sports18, Root stated, "You mentioned two of the greats of the modern era. Of course, there’s going to be focus. We know how good they are and they are also very senior within this current Indian batting lineup. So clearly they’ve got a big role to play within this Test team. You want to make sure that you try and get on top of them early. They’ve got the ability to get big scores and we’ve been on the wrong end of that a few times, so it would be nice to try and keep them as quiet as we can throughout the series." Also read: 'We don't do team meeting anymore,' reveals former England skipper Joe Root Rohit-led India drew the five-match series with a 106-run win over England in the second Test in Visakhapatnam on Monday (Feb 5). Both sides have several days off before they lock horns for the third Test, in Rajkot, which gets underway on Feb 15. India's squad for the remainder of the series is expected to be out soon and there is a lot of hype around it, with the likely return of Kohli. Kohli missed the first two Tests due to personal reasons and there have been no updates regarding his availability for the final three games. Meanwhile, Root has blown hot and cold with the bat in the ongoing series. He has managed scores of 29, 2, 5 and 16 in four outings but accounted for five dismissals. He will look to go big in the third Test with the series tantalisingly poised at 1-1.

Ind vs Eng: Root lauds Rohit and Kohli, says visitors eager to keep them quiet in the series

<p>Jasprit Bumrah, on Wednesday (Feb 07), created history by becoming the first-ever Indian pacer to top the ICC Test bowling rankings. Bumrah reached the top after a brilliant fast-bowling display in the second Test between India and England, in Visakhapatnam, where the vice-captain ended with match figures of 9 for 91. With this, Bumrah also became the first-ever bowler in the history of cricket to become No. 1 in any of the three formats.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Bumrah topped the bowling rankings in Tests after a brilliant spell in the Visakhapatnam Test. The wily pacer's 6 for 45 in the first innings enabled Rohit Sharma-led India to take a vital 143-run lead after Yashasvi Jaiswal's 209 propelled the hosts to 396. England only managed 253 owing to Bumrah's lethal spell. In their second essay, India rode on Shubman Gill's 104 to set up a challenging 399-run target for the visitors. Ben Stokes &amp; Co. folded for 292 with Bumrah once again being among wickets (3 for 46). Thus, the 30-year-old pacer's Vizag heroics led him to gain the top spot in the ICC Test rankings for bowlers.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-he-showed-he-is-a-quick-learner-gavaskar-lauds-yashasvi-jaiswal-after-his-209-in-vizag-test-687774">Ind vs Eng: 'He showed he is a quick learner' - Gavaskar lauds Yashasvi Jaiswal after his 209 in Vizag Test</a></strong></p>

<p>With Bumrah taking the top spot, R Ashwin -- who held the numero uno position since last March -- fell two places to take the third spot whereas South Africa's Kagiso Rabada is on the second spot despite not being part of his side's ongoing Test series versus New Zealand.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In 2024, Bumrah has already accounted for two five-wicket hauls. He bagged 6 for 61 in the Cape Town Test versus South Africa, which India won by seven wickets to draw the two-match series at 1-1. The Indian speedster, who has&nbsp;10 five-wicket hauls in 34 Tests, will be eager to continue with the same momentum in the remaining three Tests versus England.</p>

<p>The third Test kicks off on Feb 15 in Rajkot with the series poised at 1-1.&nbsp;</p>


Jasprit Bumrah, on Wednesday (Feb 07), created history by becoming the first-ever Indian pacer to top the ICC Test bowling rankings. Bumrah reached the top after a brilliant fast-bowling display in the second Test between India and England, in Visakhapatnam, where the vice-captain ended with match figures of 9 for 91.

Jasprit Bumrah, on Wednesday (Feb 07), created history by becoming the first-ever Indian pacer to top the ICC Test bowling rankings. Bumrah reached the top after a brilliant fast-bowling display in the second Test between India and England, in Visakhapatnam, where the vice-captain ended with match figures of 9 for 91. With this, Bumrah also became the first-ever bowler in the history of cricket to become No. 1 in any of the three formats. Bumrah topped the bowling rankings in Tests after a brilliant spell in the Visakhapatnam Test. The wily pacer's 6 for 45 in the first innings enabled Rohit Sharma-led India to take a vital 143-run lead after Yashasvi Jaiswal's 209 propelled the hosts to 396. England only managed 253 owing to Bumrah's lethal spell. In their second essay, India rode on Shubman Gill's 104 to set up a challenging 399-run target for the visitors. Ben Stokes & Co. folded for 292 with Bumrah once again being among wickets (3 for 46). Thus, the 30-year-old pacer's Vizag heroics led him to gain the top spot in the ICC Test rankings for bowlers. Also read: Ind vs Eng: 'He showed he is a quick learner' - Gavaskar lauds Yashasvi Jaiswal after his 209 in Vizag Test With Bumrah taking the top spot, R Ashwin -- who held the numero uno position since last March -- fell two places to take the third spot whereas South Africa's Kagiso Rabada is on the second spot despite not being part of his side's ongoing Test series versus New Zealand. In 2024, Bumrah has already accounted for two five-wicket hauls. He bagged 6 for 61 in the Cape Town Test versus South Africa, which India won by seven wickets to draw the two-match series at 1-1. The Indian speedster, who has 10 five-wicket hauls in 34 Tests, will be eager to continue with the same momentum in the remaining three Tests versus England. The third Test kicks off on Feb 15 in Rajkot with the series poised at 1-1.

Ind vs Eng: HISTORY CREATED! Jasprit Bumrah becomes first Indian pacer to top ICC Test bowling rankings

<p>India beat England by 106 runs in Visakhapatnam to level the series at 1-1 with three more Tests to go. India lost the series opener by 28 runs in Hyderabad but came back strongly to win the Vizag Test, thanks&nbsp;to Yashasvi Jaiswal's 209, Shubman Gill's 104 and Jasprit Bumrah's match figures of 9 for 91. After the second Test, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Sunil Gavaskar lauded young opener Jaiswal for being a 'quick learner'. The swashbuckling left-hander made 80 in the first innings of the Hyderabad Test. While he had a chance to score a big hundred, he missed it but learned from his mistake to make amends in Vizag.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Gavaskar lauded&nbsp;22-year-old Jaiswal for learning quickly and scoring a daddy hundred in the Vizag Test. He wrote in his column for Mid-Day, "Yashasvi Jaiswal showed he is a quick learner by making sure he didn’t miss out on a hundred as he did in the first Test match by scoring a magnificent double century in the second Test."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/joe-root-is-selling-himself-really-short-former-indian-opener-unimpressed-with-englishman-after-2nd-test-687477">Joe Root is selling himself really short: Former Indian opener unimpressed with Englishman after 2nd Test</a></strong></p>

<p>He added, "India certainly needed someone to hold the innings together with a big century as once again most of the other batters got going like they did in the first Test and then gifted their wickets away."</p>

<p>Riding on Jaiswal's 209, India posted 396 in the first innings, in Vizag, after opting to bat first. In reply, England managed 253 and handed a vital 143-run lead to India. In their second essay, Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. posted 255, courtesy of Gill's 104, to set up a challenging 399-run target for the visitors. Ben Stokes-led England folded for 292 to lose the tie as the series is now interestingly poised at 1-1.</p>

<p>Both teams have some time off as the third Test begins on Feb 15 in Rajkot.&nbsp;</p>


India beat England by 106 runs in Visakhapatnam to level the series at 1-1 with three more Tests to go. India lost the series opener by 28 runs in Hyderabad but came back strongly to win the Vizag Test, thanks to Yashasvi Jaiswal's 209, Shubman Gill's 104 and Jasprit Bumrah's match figures of 9 for 91.

India beat England by 106 runs in Visakhapatnam to level the series at 1-1 with three more Tests to go. India lost the series opener by 28 runs in Hyderabad but came back strongly to win the Vizag Test, thanks to Yashasvi Jaiswal's 209, Shubman Gill's 104 and Jasprit Bumrah's match figures of 9 for 91. After the second Test, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Sunil Gavaskar lauded young opener Jaiswal for being a 'quick learner'. The swashbuckling left-hander made 80 in the first innings of the Hyderabad Test. While he had a chance to score a big hundred, he missed it but learned from his mistake to make amends in Vizag. Gavaskar lauded 22-year-old Jaiswal for learning quickly and scoring a daddy hundred in the Vizag Test. He wrote in his column for Mid-Day, "Yashasvi Jaiswal showed he is a quick learner by making sure he didn’t miss out on a hundred as he did in the first Test match by scoring a magnificent double century in the second Test." Also read: Joe Root is selling himself really short: Former Indian opener unimpressed with Englishman after 2nd Test He added, "India certainly needed someone to hold the innings together with a big century as once again most of the other batters got going like they did in the first Test and then gifted their wickets away." Riding on Jaiswal's 209, India posted 396 in the first innings, in Vizag, after opting to bat first. In reply, England managed 253 and handed a vital 143-run lead to India. In their second essay, Rohit Sharma & Co. posted 255, courtesy of Gill's 104, to set up a challenging 399-run target for the visitors. Ben Stokes-led England folded for 292 to lose the tie as the series is now interestingly poised at 1-1. Both teams have some time off as the third Test begins on Feb 15 in Rajkot.

Ind vs Eng: 'He showed he is a quick learner' - Gavaskar lauds Yashasvi Jaiswal after his 209 in Vizag Test

<p>England head coach Brendon McCullum has taken note of Virat Kohli’s return to the Indian team as the teams have shifted attention to the Rajkot Test which starts next Thursday (Feb 15). Virat, who did not participate in the opening two matches of the Test series against England will be back in the squad for the third Test. According to McCullum, Virat is one of the finest and greatest players of his generation and will be a big addition to the Indian team.</p>

<h2><strong>Virat set to return to Team India</strong></h2>

<p>"Virat's one of the greatest players of the game has seen. No doubt it improves this squad. As we have said throughout, the depth of Indian cricket, the talent in India is immense. So we respect every opposition player that we come up against," Brendon McCullum told TalkSport.</p>

<p>"If Virat is coming back... we hope everything is well with his family. We will look forward to that challenge too. He is a great competitor. I know him very well and I enjoyed playing against him, I enjoyed our team playing against him. And if you have success against the best, I am sure you have earned it," he added.</p>

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<p>Virat’s return against England will be a massive boost to the Indian side as the hosts look to take a vital lead in the five-match Test series. So far against England, Virat has scored 1991 runs and needs nine more runs to reach the special club of ‘2000’.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-manchester-city-blast-brentford-away-to-move-within-two-points-of-top-687309">Premier League: Manchester City blast Brentford away to move within two points of top</a></p>

<p>England will become Virat’s most favourite Test opponent during the Test series with Australia being the only other nation against whom he has scored more runs. Scoring 52 runs against England, Virat will leapfrog the tally of 2042 runs he has against the Aussies. Virat also has five hundreds and nine fifties against the English side with a best of 235.</p>

<p>Virat’s inclusion will be a timely boost for the Indian side as they are already without the services of Ravindra Jadeja and KL Rahul while Shubman Gill is also nursing an injury after the Vizag Test. His inclusion alongside a fit Gill could see the exclusion of Rajat Patidar from the Playing XI for the Rajkot Test next week.</p>


England head coach Brendon McCullum has taken note of Virat Kohli’s return to the Indian team as the teams have shifted attention to the Rajkot Test which starts next Thursday (Feb 15).

England head coach Brendon McCullum has taken note of Virat Kohli’s return to the Indian team as the teams have shifted attention to the Rajkot Test which starts next Thursday (Feb 15). Virat, who did not participate in the opening two matches of the Test series against England will be back in the squad for the third Test. According to McCullum, Virat is one of the finest and greatest players of his generation and will be a big addition to the Indian team. Virat set to return to Team India "Virat's one of the greatest players of the game has seen. No doubt it improves this squad. As we have said throughout, the depth of Indian cricket, the talent in India is immense. So we respect every opposition player that we come up against," Brendon McCullum told TalkSport. "If Virat is coming back... we hope everything is well with his family. We will look forward to that challenge too. He is a great competitor. I know him very well and I enjoyed playing against him, I enjoyed our team playing against him. And if you have success against the best, I am sure you have earned it," he added. × Virat’s return against England will be a massive boost to the Indian side as the hosts look to take a vital lead in the five-match Test series. So far against England, Virat has scored 1991 runs and needs nine more runs to reach the special club of ‘2000’. ALSO READ | Premier League: Manchester City blast Brentford away to move within two points of top England will become Virat’s most favourite Test opponent during the Test series with Australia being the only other nation against whom he has scored more runs. Scoring 52 runs against England, Virat will leapfrog the tally of 2042 runs he has against the Aussies. Virat also has five hundreds and nine fifties against the English side with a best of 235. Virat’s inclusion will be a timely boost for the Indian side as they are already without the services of Ravindra Jadeja and KL Rahul while Shubman Gill is also nursing an injury after the Vizag Test. His inclusion alongside a fit Gill could see the exclusion of Rajat Patidar from the Playing XI for the Rajkot Test next week.

IND vs ENG: England coach Brendon McCullum takes note of GOAT Virat Kohli's return to Indian side

<p>India beat England by 106 runs on Day 4 of the second Test in Visakhapatnam on Monday (Feb 5). Opting to bat first, India rode on Yashasvi Jaiswal's double century (209) but only managed 396 overall in the first innings. In reply, England got dismissed for 253 to handover a vital 143-run lead as Shubman Gill's 104 and Axar Patel's 45 enabled India to set a challenging 399-run target.</p>

<p>England started Day 4 resuming at 67 for 1 and were going for the run-chase, backing their much-talked about and successful Bazball approach. However, they fell for 292 to lose by 106 runs as the series is now levelled at 1-1. With three more Tests to go&nbsp;in the five-match series, former Indian stumper-turned-commentator Parthiv Patel has warned Rohit Sharma &amp; Co.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking on Colors Cineplex, Parthiv said, "We definitely cannot say that we have gotten rid of Bazball because when India had set a nearly 400-run target in the fourth innings, we were still thinking that they might be able to chase it."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/joe-root-is-selling-himself-really-short-former-indian-opener-unimpressed-with-englishman-after-2nd-test-687477">Joe Root is selling himself really short: Former Indian opener unimpressed with Englishman after 2nd Test</a></strong></p>

<p>"332 runs were required on the fourth morning and yet it seemed like that. 106 runs were left when they got all out. If Joe Root hadn't played that shot and Ben Stokes hadn't gone for a walk in the park, if that run-out dismissal hadn't happened, it might have been difficult," he added.</p>

<p>In England's final innings, Zak Crawley top scored with a fine 73 whereas many others got starts but failed to convert them into big scores. Had anyone else stuck around for a bit more, the chase could have gone in England's favour. From India's perspective, despite tons from Jaiswal and Gill, it was vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah's match figures of 9 for 91 which propelled India to a much-needed win.</p>

<p>The series is now&nbsp;interestingly poised at 1-1 with the third Test to kick off on Feb 15 in Rajkot.&nbsp;</p>


India beat England by 106 runs on Day 4 of the second Test in Visakhapatnam on Monday (Feb 5). Opting to bat first, India rode on Yashasvi Jaiswal's double century (209) but only managed 396 overall in the first innings.

India beat England by 106 runs on Day 4 of the second Test in Visakhapatnam on Monday (Feb 5). Opting to bat first, India rode on Yashasvi Jaiswal's double century (209) but only managed 396 overall in the first innings. In reply, England got dismissed for 253 to handover a vital 143-run lead as Shubman Gill's 104 and Axar Patel's 45 enabled India to set a challenging 399-run target. England started Day 4 resuming at 67 for 1 and were going for the run-chase, backing their much-talked about and successful Bazball approach. However, they fell for 292 to lose by 106 runs as the series is now levelled at 1-1. With three more Tests to go in the five-match series, former Indian stumper-turned-commentator Parthiv Patel has warned Rohit Sharma & Co. Speaking on Colors Cineplex, Parthiv said, "We definitely cannot say that we have gotten rid of Bazball because when India had set a nearly 400-run target in the fourth innings, we were still thinking that they might be able to chase it." Also read: Joe Root is selling himself really short: Former Indian opener unimpressed with Englishman after 2nd Test "332 runs were required on the fourth morning and yet it seemed like that. 106 runs were left when they got all out. If Joe Root hadn't played that shot and Ben Stokes hadn't gone for a walk in the park, if that run-out dismissal hadn't happened, it might have been difficult," he added. In England's final innings, Zak Crawley top scored with a fine 73 whereas many others got starts but failed to convert them into big scores. Had anyone else stuck around for a bit more, the chase could have gone in England's favour. From India's perspective, despite tons from Jaiswal and Gill, it was vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah's match figures of 9 for 91 which propelled India to a much-needed win. The series is now interestingly poised at 1-1 with the third Test to kick off on Feb 15 in Rajkot.

India haven’t gotten rid of Bazball: Former Indian stumper cautions Rohit Sharma & Co. despite Vizag win

<p>Jasprit Bumrah is a generational talent, perhaps the best pacer from India since Zaheer Khan. The right-arm bowler is known for sending down some of the meanest and unplayable yorkers, an example of which was the delivery that got Ollie Pope’s middle and leg stumps breaking into halves in the first innings of the Vizag Test. After helping India win the match by 106 runs, claiming&nbsp;nine wickets across both innings, Bumrah revealed his first love in cricket.</p>

<p>"As a youngster that [the yorker] is probably the first delivery I had learned because I had come from tennis ball cricket, and I had seen the legends of the game, Waqar [Younis], Wasim [Akram] and even Zaheer Khan, I had seen them on the television, how do they bowl yorkers," Bumrah told the broadcaster after India's 106-run victory.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Bumrah’s love affair with bowling yorkers is there for everyone to see, and he admitted learning this type of delivery (first thing) when he picked the cricket ball.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-proud-rohit-lauds-young-squad-but-wants-more-from-batters-despite-vizag-test-win-687173">IND vs ENG: ‘Proud’ Rohit lauds young squad but wants more from batters despite Vizag Test win</a></strong></p>

<p>"As a kid, I used to feel that is the only way to take wickets. So that is the first delivery I learned. Yes, I kept it with me, and I kept on using it to my advantage, and now, even in Test cricket, when you get wickets off it, it's great,” the India seamer said.</p>

<p>The ace India bowler returned with six wickets in the first innings, including removing star players like Root, Pope, Bairstow and Stokes. His spell (6/45) helped India dismiss England (in the first innings) inside three sessions on the second day.&nbsp;After India’s second innings, where they got out all out on 255, thanks to Shubman Gill’s third Test ton, Bumrah returned to haunt the visitors in the final outing, bagging three wickets.</p>

<h2>'Numbers don't matter to Bumrah'</h2>

<p>Bumrah accounted for Bairstow, Foakes and all-rounder Hartley in the second innings, as India wrapped up England on 292, winning the Test by 106 runs.</p>

<p>Though Bumrah’s numbers are scary for the opposition irrespective of the venue, the India seamer said he doesn’t like looking into stats much as it adds to the pressure on those representing the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I don't look at numbers because when I was a youngster, I used to look at numbers. Yes, it made me excited, but you know, if you think about numbers, there's a lot of pressure anyway playing for India. And if you take that added baggage, it doesn't really help. So, I'm very happy that we won and when you contribute towards that success it feels even better,” Bumrah said, who averages 13.06 from six Tests in India, having picked 36 wickets.&nbsp;</p>


Jasprit Bumrah is a generational talent, perhaps the best pacer from India since Zaheer Khan. The right-arm bowler is known for sending down some of the meanest and unplayable yorkers, an example of which was the delivery that got Ollie Pope’s middle and leg stumps breaking into halves in the first innings of the Vizag Test.

Jasprit Bumrah is a generational talent, perhaps the best pacer from India since Zaheer Khan. The right-arm bowler is known for sending down some of the meanest and unplayable yorkers, an example of which was the delivery that got Ollie Pope’s middle and leg stumps breaking into halves in the first innings of the Vizag Test. After helping India win the match by 106 runs, claiming nine wickets across both innings, Bumrah revealed his first love in cricket. "As a youngster that [the yorker] is probably the first delivery I had learned because I had come from tennis ball cricket, and I had seen the legends of the game, Waqar [Younis], Wasim [Akram] and even Zaheer Khan, I had seen them on the television, how do they bowl yorkers," Bumrah told the broadcaster after India's 106-run victory. Bumrah’s love affair with bowling yorkers is there for everyone to see, and he admitted learning this type of delivery (first thing) when he picked the cricket ball. ALSO READ: IND vs ENG: ‘Proud’ Rohit lauds young squad but wants more from batters despite Vizag Test win "As a kid, I used to feel that is the only way to take wickets. So that is the first delivery I learned. Yes, I kept it with me, and I kept on using it to my advantage, and now, even in Test cricket, when you get wickets off it, it's great,” the India seamer said. The ace India bowler returned with six wickets in the first innings, including removing star players like Root, Pope, Bairstow and Stokes. His spell (6/45) helped India dismiss England (in the first innings) inside three sessions on the second day. After India’s second innings, where they got out all out on 255, thanks to Shubman Gill’s third Test ton, Bumrah returned to haunt the visitors in the final outing, bagging three wickets. 'Numbers don't matter to Bumrah' Bumrah accounted for Bairstow, Foakes and all-rounder Hartley in the second innings, as India wrapped up England on 292, winning the Test by 106 runs. Though Bumrah’s numbers are scary for the opposition irrespective of the venue, the India seamer said he doesn’t like looking into stats much as it adds to the pressure on those representing the country. "I don't look at numbers because when I was a youngster, I used to look at numbers. Yes, it made me excited, but you know, if you think about numbers, there's a lot of pressure anyway playing for India. And if you take that added baggage, it doesn't really help. So, I'm very happy that we won and when you contribute towards that success it feels even better,” Bumrah said, who averages 13.06 from six Tests in India, having picked 36 wickets.

IND v ENG: Vizag Test hero Jasprit Bumrah reveals his first love in cricket

<p>England veteran Geoffrey Boycott has hit back at Rohit Sharma fans for being delusional about the India batter not being ‘past his prime’ yet, saying they should avoid defending something that’s not defensible. Boycott earlier made headlines for his remarks on Rohit, 36 now, saying the batting veteran is not at his best anymore and has to use his experience to combat his age.</p>

<p>The right-handed batter endured a tough time in the middle during the first innings of the ongoing Test against England.&nbsp;Alongside young Yashasvi Jaiswal, who scored his maiden double hundred (209), Rohit could contribute little for the first wicket stand before falling prey to debutant Shoaib Bashir on just 14.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Replying to a post on X (previously known as Twitter), Boycott said he appreciates Rohit for the batter that he had been, but, like how after a certain age (36 here), most sportspersons with their diminishing reflexes get slow, Rohit appears to have reached that space.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Although he backed the India captain to contribute with the bat, Boycott feels he still has to use the experience to compensate for his age.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-v-eng-we-believe-we-can-chase-anything-crawley-on-englands-chances-in-vizag-686743">IND v ENG: ‘We believe we can chase anything’ – Crawley on England’s chances in Vizag</a></strong></p>

<p>He wrote, “Supporters of Rohit stop defending the indefensible he’s been a super batsman &amp; still good, but nobody gets better after age 36, we all decline in fitness reactions speed of thought endurance etc. doesn’t mean he can’t make runs but has to use all his experience to combat his age.”</p>

<p>Writing for The Telegraph, Boycott said, “Their captain Rohit Sharma is nearly 37 and past his best. He makes pretty cameos but has scored only two Test hundreds at home in four years.”</p>

<p>With India missing star batter Virat Kohli (away due to personal reasons) alongside senior players KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja because of injuries, Rohit had to step up to the occasion and deliver but hasn’t done it yet. With him batting alongside Jaiswal (first innings double centurion) in the second innings, India would back Rohit to hit it big and put India in the winning position.</p>

<h2>Bumrah starred on day 2</h2>

<p>Jasprit Bumrah was at his brutal best against England on day two of the second Test in Vizag. With six wickets to his name, including picking all big names like Root, Stokes, Pope and Bairstow, Bumrah entered record books.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Returning Kuldeep Yadav also picked three wickets, helping India dismiss England on 253.</p>


England veteran Geoffrey Boycott has hit back at Rohit Sharma fans for being delusional about the India batter not being ‘past his prime’ yet, saying they should avoid defending something that’s not defensible.

England veteran Geoffrey Boycott has hit back at Rohit Sharma fans for being delusional about the India batter not being ‘past his prime’ yet, saying they should avoid defending something that’s not defensible. Boycott earlier made headlines for his remarks on Rohit, 36 now, saying the batting veteran is not at his best anymore and has to use his experience to combat his age. The right-handed batter endured a tough time in the middle during the first innings of the ongoing Test against England. Alongside young Yashasvi Jaiswal, who scored his maiden double hundred (209), Rohit could contribute little for the first wicket stand before falling prey to debutant Shoaib Bashir on just 14. Replying to a post on X (previously known as Twitter), Boycott said he appreciates Rohit for the batter that he had been, but, like how after a certain age (36 here), most sportspersons with their diminishing reflexes get slow, Rohit appears to have reached that space. Although he backed the India captain to contribute with the bat, Boycott feels he still has to use the experience to compensate for his age. ALSO READ: IND v ENG: ‘We believe we can chase anything’ – Crawley on England’s chances in Vizag He wrote, “Supporters of Rohit stop defending the indefensible he’s been a super batsman & still good, but nobody gets better after age 36, we all decline in fitness reactions speed of thought endurance etc. doesn’t mean he can’t make runs but has to use all his experience to combat his age.” Writing for The Telegraph, Boycott said, “Their captain Rohit Sharma is nearly 37 and past his best. He makes pretty cameos but has scored only two Test hundreds at home in four years.” With India missing star batter Virat Kohli (away due to personal reasons) alongside senior players KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja because of injuries, Rohit had to step up to the occasion and deliver but hasn’t done it yet. With him batting alongside Jaiswal (first innings double centurion) in the second innings, India would back Rohit to hit it big and put India in the winning position. Bumrah starred on day 2 Jasprit Bumrah was at his brutal best against England on day two of the second Test in Vizag. With six wickets to his name, including picking all big names like Root, Stokes, Pope and Bairstow, Bumrah entered record books. Returning Kuldeep Yadav also picked three wickets, helping India dismiss England on 253.

Geoffrey Boycott hits back at Rohit's fans, says stop defending the indefensible over ‘past his best’ remarks

<p>After a decent start to their batting innings, England have taken a major stumble as Jasprit Bumrah ran riot on Day 2 of the ongoing Visakhapatnam Test on Saturday (Feb 3). Bumrah, who struggled with injuries in 2023 did not waste&nbsp;time to make his presence felt&nbsp;in 2024 and was seen in great touch on Saturday. His eye-catching display saw him dismiss both in-form Joe Root and Ollie Pope and help the host&nbsp;assert their dominance over the contest.</p>

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A Jasprit Bumrah special 🎯 🔥<br />
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Drop an emoji in the comments below 🔽 to describe that dismissal<br />
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Follow the match ▶️ <a href="https://t.co/X85JZGt0EV">https://t.co/X85JZGt0EV</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/Jaspritbumrah93?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Jaspritbumrah93</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/IDFCFIRSTBank?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IDFCFIRSTBank</a> <a href="https://t.co/U9mpYkYp6v">pic.twitter.com/U9mpYkYp6v</a></p>
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<h2><strong>Bumrah yorks Pope</strong></h2>

<p>On the penultimate ball of the 28th over, a sublime yorker from Bumrah caught Pope by surprise as the batter failed to judge the flight of the delivery. The unplayable yorker saw Pope’s wickets get dismantled and&nbsp;dent England’s hopes of scoring a big total. Pope, who played a match-winning knock of 196 runs in the Hyderabad Test was dismissed for 23 off 55 and returned to the pavilion frustrated.</p>

<p>The wicket came in the aftermath of Root’s wicket who was dismissed in the previous over by Bumrah on 5. This was the eighth time Bumrah got the better of Root in the red-ball format as he continued his impressive run against the former England captain. Bumrah would soon get Jonny Bairstow’s wicket as well leaving the visitors struggling at 159/5.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-kevin-pietersen-backs-shubman-gill-despite-shaky-form-compares-to-this-legendary-player-686479">IND vs ENG: Kevin Pietersen backs Shubman Gill despite shaky form, compares to THIS legendary player</a></p>

<p>At the time of writing, England were 167/5 and still trail by 229 runs in the first innings with five wickets in hand. Captain Ben Stokes (14) and Ben Foakes (1) were in the middle&nbsp;trying to make&nbsp;another solid comeback.</p>

<p>Earlier, India were bowled out for 396 in 112 overs with Yashasvi Jaiswal scoring his maiden double ton in the Test format. He scored 209 before being&nbsp;scalped by James Anderson who ended his spell with three wickets. Interestingly, Shubman Gill’s 34 was the second highest score for India, highlighting the batting flaws.</p>

<p>Like Anderson, Shoaib Bashir and Rehan Ahmed also ended with three wickets each while Tom Hartley got the remaining solitary wicket.</p>


After a decent start to their batting innings, England have taken a major stumble as Jasprit Bumrah ran riot on Day 2 of the ongoing Visakhapatnam Test on Saturday (Feb 3).

After a decent start to their batting innings, England have taken a major stumble as Jasprit Bumrah ran riot on Day 2 of the ongoing Visakhapatnam Test on Saturday (Feb 3). Bumrah, who struggled with injuries in 2023 did not waste time to make his presence felt in 2024 and was seen in great touch on Saturday. His eye-catching display saw him dismiss both in-form Joe Root and Ollie Pope and help the host assert their dominance over the contest. Timber Striker Alert 🚨 A Jasprit Bumrah special 🎯 🔥 Drop an emoji in the comments below 🔽 to describe that dismissal Follow the match ▶️ https://t.co/X85JZGt0EV#TeamIndia | #INDvENG | @Jaspritbumrah93 | @IDFCFIRSTBank pic.twitter.com/U9mpYkYp6v — BCCI (@BCCI) February 3, 2024 × Bumrah yorks Pope On the penultimate ball of the 28th over, a sublime yorker from Bumrah caught Pope by surprise as the batter failed to judge the flight of the delivery. The unplayable yorker saw Pope’s wickets get dismantled and dent England’s hopes of scoring a big total. Pope, who played a match-winning knock of 196 runs in the Hyderabad Test was dismissed for 23 off 55 and returned to the pavilion frustrated. The wicket came in the aftermath of Root’s wicket who was dismissed in the previous over by Bumrah on 5. This was the eighth time Bumrah got the better of Root in the red-ball format as he continued his impressive run against the former England captain. Bumrah would soon get Jonny Bairstow’s wicket as well leaving the visitors struggling at 159/5. ALSO READ | IND vs ENG: Kevin Pietersen backs Shubman Gill despite shaky form, compares to THIS legendary player At the time of writing, England were 167/5 and still trail by 229 runs in the first innings with five wickets in hand. Captain Ben Stokes (14) and Ben Foakes (1) were in the middle trying to make another solid comeback. Earlier, India were bowled out for 396 in 112 overs with Yashasvi Jaiswal scoring his maiden double ton in the Test format. He scored 209 before being scalped by James Anderson who ended his spell with three wickets. Interestingly, Shubman Gill’s 34 was the second highest score for India, highlighting the batting flaws. Like Anderson, Shoaib Bashir and Rehan Ahmed also ended with three wickets each while Tom Hartley got the remaining solitary wicket.

IND vs ENG: Jasprit Bumrah dismantles Ollie Pope's wickets with inch-perfect yorker - WATCH

<p>India’s Yashasvi Jaiswal has been in great form as he smashed his maiden Test double ton on Saturday (Feb 3) in Visakhapatnam against England. Jaiswal, who broke into the Indian team in 2023&nbsp;enjoyed a stellar start to his Test career and brought his double ton in the opening session of the Day 2. Jaiswal’s 209 has been the difference-maker for the Indian side as Rohit Sharma’s men march towards a big first innings total in the second Test match.</p>

<p>Jaiswal&nbsp;is now the seventh Indian batter to score a Test double ton against England, joining the likes of Virat Kohli and Sunil Gavaskar.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">DOUBLE CENTURY BY YASHASVI JAISWAL...!!!! 🔥<br />
Monster innings <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvsENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvsENG</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvsENGTest?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvsENGTest</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YashasviJaiswal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#YashasviJaiswal</a> <a href="https://t.co/vK8IVGfZiZ">pic.twitter.com/vK8IVGfZiZ</a></p>
— 𝐕𝐈𝐑𝐀𝐓𝕏𝐑𝐂𝐁 (@ProfKohli18) <a href="https://twitter.com/ProfKohli18/status/1753640931432296471?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Jaiswal hits maiden ton</strong></h2>

<p>On the second ball of the 102nd over, Jaiswal scored a sweeping four following a six on the first ball against bowler Shoaib Bashir. This resulted in him scoring his maiden Test double ton and becoming just the ninth Indian batter and the third youngest from the nation to achieve the feat. After scoring the four, he was&nbsp;over the moon as he celebrated in front of a full-house in Visakhapatnam.</p>

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<p>Jaiswal, 22, has been India’s lone fighter in the innings so far with some support from batter Shubman Gill, who scored&nbsp;34 on Day 1. The youngster has clearly lacked support at one end but did not give up before scoring his maiden double ton.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-kevin-pietersen-backs-shubman-gill-despite-shaky-form-compares-to-this-legendary-player-686479">IND vs ENG: Kevin Pietersen backs Shubman Gill despite shaky form, compares to THIS legendary player</a></p>

<p>At the time of writing, India were 383/8 with Jaiswal being scalped by James Anderson soon after his double ton while Kuldeep Yadav was at the other end batting on 4. The hosts also lost Ravichandran Ashwin (20) in the first session of Day 2 but will look to put a big total on the board.</p>

<p>England will now look for a solid start to their first innings, something they lacked&nbsp;in the Hyderabad Test. They will bank on the services of Ollie Pope, Zak Crawley and Joe Root.&nbsp;Pope had&nbsp;scored&nbsp;196 runs in the second innings of the&nbsp;opening Test match. India on the other hand will look for a positive start with the ball with the likes of Jasprit Bumrah and Mukesh Kumar.</p>


India’s Yashasvi Jaiswal has been in great form as he smashed his maiden Test double ton on Saturday (Feb 3) in Visakhapatnam against England. Jaiswal, who broke into the Indian team in 2023 enjoyed a stellar start to his Test career and brought his double ton in the opening session of the Day 2.

India’s Yashasvi Jaiswal has been in great form as he smashed his maiden Test double ton on Saturday (Feb 3) in Visakhapatnam against England. Jaiswal, who broke into the Indian team in 2023 enjoyed a stellar start to his Test career and brought his double ton in the opening session of the Day 2. Jaiswal’s 209 has been the difference-maker for the Indian side as Rohit Sharma’s men march towards a big first innings total in the second Test match. Jaiswal is now the seventh Indian batter to score a Test double ton against England, joining the likes of Virat Kohli and Sunil Gavaskar. DOUBLE CENTURY BY YASHASVI JAISWAL...!!!! 🔥 Monster innings #INDvsENG #INDvsENGTest #YashasviJaiswal pic.twitter.com/vK8IVGfZiZ — 𝐕𝐈𝐑𝐀𝐓𝕏𝐑𝐂𝐁 (@ProfKohli18) February 3, 2024 × Jaiswal hits maiden ton On the second ball of the 102nd over, Jaiswal scored a sweeping four following a six on the first ball against bowler Shoaib Bashir. This resulted in him scoring his maiden Test double ton and becoming just the ninth Indian batter and the third youngest from the nation to achieve the feat. After scoring the four, he was over the moon as he celebrated in front of a full-house in Visakhapatnam. × Jaiswal, 22, has been India’s lone fighter in the innings so far with some support from batter Shubman Gill, who scored 34 on Day 1. The youngster has clearly lacked support at one end but did not give up before scoring his maiden double ton. ALSO READ | IND vs ENG: Kevin Pietersen backs Shubman Gill despite shaky form, compares to THIS legendary player At the time of writing, India were 383/8 with Jaiswal being scalped by James Anderson soon after his double ton while Kuldeep Yadav was at the other end batting on 4. The hosts also lost Ravichandran Ashwin (20) in the first session of Day 2 but will look to put a big total on the board. England will now look for a solid start to their first innings, something they lacked in the Hyderabad Test. They will bank on the services of Ollie Pope, Zak Crawley and Joe Root. Pope had scored 196 runs in the second innings of the opening Test match. India on the other hand will look for a positive start with the ball with the likes of Jasprit Bumrah and Mukesh Kumar.

IND vs ENG: Yashasvi Jaiswal hits maiden Test double-ton, becomes 9th Indian to achieve feat vs ENG - WATCH

<p>Former England captain Michael Atherton has backed his side for a big total in the first innings of the second Test. While India&nbsp;riding high on&nbsp;Yashasvi Jaiswal's unbeaten ton (at stumps on Day 1)&nbsp;will expect to score more than 400. However, Atherton reckons England have all the confidence to surpass that total after Ollie Pope’s innings in the opening Test.</p>

<h2><strong>Atherton backs England for a big total</strong></h2>

<p>"While Jaiswal's there, India will have designs on a score of 400, 450," Atherton said on Sky Sports.</p>

<p>"That's never a bad first-innings score, but it's not the kind of one that will frighten England," he added.</p>

<p>"You always look at conditions and wonder how things will go. It's certainly less of a troubling pitch than it was in Hyderabad in that first innings. England's batters, having taken confidence from the way Ollie Pope and the others played [in the first Test], will be pretty confident of getting a score themselves," Atherton said about England batters.</p>

<h2><strong>What happened on Day 1?</strong></h2>

<p>After winning the toss, India decided to bat first having made two changes to the side that lost in Hyderabad. Rohit and Yashasvi Jaiswal opened for the Indian side with Rajat Patidar and Mukesh Kumar coming in as two changes. While Rohit was dismissed early, it was his partner Jaiswal who was the difference-maker as he scored an unbeaten 179 with wickets falling at consistent intervals.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Shubman Gill was the second-highest scorer in the innings with 34 while Shreyas Iyer (27) and debutant Patidar (32) also got starts. India closed Day 1 at 336/6 and will hope to cross 400 on the second day of the match.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-kevin-pietersen-backs-shubman-gill-despite-shaky-form-compares-to-this-legendary-player-686479">IND vs ENG: Kevin Pietersen backs Shubman Gill despite shaky form, compares to THIS legendary player</a></p>

<p>England batters have already earned plenty of applause after a terrific display in the second innings of the Hyderabad Test. Pope scored 196 runs to steer them to the win, having initially trailed by 190 runs after the first innings.</p>

<p>"You'll see England playing aggressively because that's they're committed to playing that way and quite differently from the way India play. It's a good contrast in styles really between India's top six and England's," Said Atherton.</p>


Former England captain Michael Atherton has backed his side for a big total in the first innings of the second Test. While India riding high on Yashasvi Jaiswal's unbeaten ton (at stumps on Day 1) will expect to score more than 400.

Former England captain Michael Atherton has backed his side for a big total in the first innings of the second Test. While India riding high on Yashasvi Jaiswal's unbeaten ton (at stumps on Day 1) will expect to score more than 400. However, Atherton reckons England have all the confidence to surpass that total after Ollie Pope’s innings in the opening Test. Atherton backs England for a big total "While Jaiswal's there, India will have designs on a score of 400, 450," Atherton said on Sky Sports. "That's never a bad first-innings score, but it's not the kind of one that will frighten England," he added. "You always look at conditions and wonder how things will go. It's certainly less of a troubling pitch than it was in Hyderabad in that first innings. England's batters, having taken confidence from the way Ollie Pope and the others played [in the first Test], will be pretty confident of getting a score themselves," Atherton said about England batters. What happened on Day 1? After winning the toss, India decided to bat first having made two changes to the side that lost in Hyderabad. Rohit and Yashasvi Jaiswal opened for the Indian side with Rajat Patidar and Mukesh Kumar coming in as two changes. While Rohit was dismissed early, it was his partner Jaiswal who was the difference-maker as he scored an unbeaten 179 with wickets falling at consistent intervals. × Shubman Gill was the second-highest scorer in the innings with 34 while Shreyas Iyer (27) and debutant Patidar (32) also got starts. India closed Day 1 at 336/6 and will hope to cross 400 on the second day of the match. ALSO READ | IND vs ENG: Kevin Pietersen backs Shubman Gill despite shaky form, compares to THIS legendary player England batters have already earned plenty of applause after a terrific display in the second innings of the Hyderabad Test. Pope scored 196 runs to steer them to the win, having initially trailed by 190 runs after the first innings. "You'll see England playing aggressively because that's they're committed to playing that way and quite differently from the way India play. It's a good contrast in styles really between India's top six and England's," Said Atherton.

IND vs ENG: Former captain backs England for big first innings score, says 'they will be pretty confident'

<p>Former England captain Michael Atherton has backed Ben Stokes-led England to win the five-match Test series in India after their terrific win in the series opener in Hyderabad. Stokes &amp; Co. produced a remarkable comeback in the first Test, after conceding a 190-run lead, to win the game by 28 runs courtesy of Ollie Pope's 196 and debutant spinner Tom Hartley's 7 for 62.</p>

<p>Ahead of India-England's second Test in Visakhapatnam, which got underway on Friday (Feb 2), Atherton feels it will be disappointing if England do not end up winning the series after the kind of start they had in Hyderabad.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'England have an excellent chance of building on their lead'</strong></h2>

<p>In his column in The Times, Atherton said, "England have moved from heavy second favourites to a situation where it would be a disappointment now if they did not win the series. Such an outcome, so unexpected and so unbelievable given where both teams were in the first innings, must have a huge psychological impact, especially given the quick turnaround and the injuries to two of India’s key players, Ravindra Jadeja and KL Rahul. England have an excellent chance of building on their lead."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/relaxed-india-did-not-panic-after-hyderabad-loss-bharat-says-batters-to-play-with-freedom-in-2nd-test-685927">Indian team ‘not demoralised’ after Hyderabad loss: Bharat says batters to 'play with freedom' in 2nd Test</a></strong></p>

<p>Atherton also opined on Virat Kohli's absence and how it was dearly missed in his side's shocking loss in Hyderabad. In this regard, he stated, "How significant Kohli’s absence was became apparent during the first Test, given how badly they missed his appetite for big runs, his safe catching at slip, his ability to withstand pressure and his passionate attitude in the field."</p>

<p>He added, "Rohit Sharma is a captain in a very different mould from his predecessor [Kohli] — at once more laid-back, albeit not quite so passive as MS Dhoni. As England began to get ahead in Hyderabad, Kohli’s electric presence in the field, as much as anything, was missed. It would not have been hard to imagine the way he would have tried to whip up the crowd and the way his energy would have been transmitted to others."</p>

<p>Kohli is out of action till the second Test due to personal reasons. However, nothing is officially known about him returning for the Third Test.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Rohit-led India won the toss and opted to bat first in the Vizag Test on Friday morning. They are behind 0-1 and will be desperate to level the five-match series.</p>


Former England captain Michael Atherton has backed Ben Stokes-led England to win the five-match Test series in India after their terrific win in the series opener in Hyderabad.

Former England captain Michael Atherton has backed Ben Stokes-led England to win the five-match Test series in India after their terrific win in the series opener in Hyderabad. Stokes & Co. produced a remarkable comeback in the first Test, after conceding a 190-run lead, to win the game by 28 runs courtesy of Ollie Pope's 196 and debutant spinner Tom Hartley's 7 for 62. Ahead of India-England's second Test in Visakhapatnam, which got underway on Friday (Feb 2), Atherton feels it will be disappointing if England do not end up winning the series after the kind of start they had in Hyderabad. 'England have an excellent chance of building on their lead' In his column in The Times, Atherton said, "England have moved from heavy second favourites to a situation where it would be a disappointment now if they did not win the series. Such an outcome, so unexpected and so unbelievable given where both teams were in the first innings, must have a huge psychological impact, especially given the quick turnaround and the injuries to two of India’s key players, Ravindra Jadeja and KL Rahul. England have an excellent chance of building on their lead." Also read: Indian team ‘not demoralised’ after Hyderabad loss: Bharat says batters to 'play with freedom' in 2nd Test Atherton also opined on Virat Kohli's absence and how it was dearly missed in his side's shocking loss in Hyderabad. In this regard, he stated, "How significant Kohli’s absence was became apparent during the first Test, given how badly they missed his appetite for big runs, his safe catching at slip, his ability to withstand pressure and his passionate attitude in the field." He added, "Rohit Sharma is a captain in a very different mould from his predecessor [Kohli] — at once more laid-back, albeit not quite so passive as MS Dhoni. As England began to get ahead in Hyderabad, Kohli’s electric presence in the field, as much as anything, was missed. It would not have been hard to imagine the way he would have tried to whip up the crowd and the way his energy would have been transmitted to others." Kohli is out of action till the second Test due to personal reasons. However, nothing is officially known about him returning for the Third Test. Meanwhile, Rohit-led India won the toss and opted to bat first in the Vizag Test on Friday morning. They are behind 0-1 and will be desperate to level the five-match series.

Ind vs Eng: Would be disappointing if England don't win series, says Atherton after visitors' bright start

<p>England had a mixed day at the start of the second Test match in Visakhapatnam after Yashasvi Jaiswal stole the show with his unbeaten 179-run knock. The visitors leading 1-0 in the five-match Test series handed a debut to Shoaib Bashir who came in as one of the changes in the side. Bashir opened up on his first Test cap and how special it was to get the wicket of Rohit Sharma even as England failed to&nbsp;prevent India from crossing 300.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Yashasvi Jaiswal's excellent 179* guided India on day one of the second <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a> Test 🔥<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WTC25?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WTC25</a>: <a href="https://t.co/i3GiP6k0Qw">https://t.co/i3GiP6k0Qw</a> <a href="https://t.co/vZFOx0zxnB">pic.twitter.com/vZFOx0zxnB</a></p>
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<h2><strong>Bashir’s special moment</strong></h2>

<p>"If you were to tell me that two years ago, I would laugh," Bashir told talkSPORT. "It was a very special moment receiving my Test cap and for me to get Rohit Sharma as my first wicket was very, very special.</p>

<p>"He's a great player of spin as well. I'm just so grateful to God and my family. They've supported me through thick and thin. I had a lot of ups and downs in my journey, so I just want to thank them as well,"&nbsp;&nbsp;he added.</p>

<p>The off-spinner, who was not in the squad for the opening Test due to visa issues did not hesitate to make his presence felt and ended day the with figures of 100/2 in his 28 overs. Apart from Rohit, Bashir also got the better of Axar Patel (27) which may have helped him gain some confidence. He had to initially return back to England last week when his visa was delayed.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-would-be-disappointing-if-england-dont-win-the-series-says-atherton-after-visitors-bright-start-686235">Ind vs Eng: Would be disappointing if England don't win the series, says Atherton after visitors' bright start</a></p>

<p>However, the issues were sorted last week and the 20-year-old spinner finally made his debut against a star-steadied Indian side on Friday (Feb 2).</p>

<h2><strong>What happened on Day 1?</strong></h2>

<p>After winning the toss, India decided to bat first having made two changes to the side that lost in Hyderabad. Rohit and Yashavi Jaiswal opened for the Indian side with Rajat Paitdar and Mukesh Kumar coming in as two changes. While Rohit was dismissed early, it was his partner Jaiswal who was the difference-maker as he scored an unbeaten 179 with wickets falling at regular&nbsp;intervals.&nbsp;</p>


England had a mixed day at the start of the second Test match in Visakhapatnam after Yashasvi Jaiswal stole the show with his unbeaten 179-run knock. The visitors leading 1-0 in the five-match Test series handed a debut to Shoaib Bashir who came in as one of the changes in the side.

England had a mixed day at the start of the second Test match in Visakhapatnam after Yashasvi Jaiswal stole the show with his unbeaten 179-run knock. The visitors leading 1-0 in the five-match Test series handed a debut to Shoaib Bashir who came in as one of the changes in the side. Bashir opened up on his first Test cap and how special it was to get the wicket of Rohit Sharma even as England failed to prevent India from crossing 300. Yashasvi Jaiswal's excellent 179* guided India on day one of the second #INDvENG Test 🔥#WTC25: https://t.co/i3GiP6k0Qw pic.twitter.com/vZFOx0zxnB — ICC (@ICC) February 2, 2024 × Bashir’s special moment "If you were to tell me that two years ago, I would laugh," Bashir told talkSPORT. "It was a very special moment receiving my Test cap and for me to get Rohit Sharma as my first wicket was very, very special. "He's a great player of spin as well. I'm just so grateful to God and my family. They've supported me through thick and thin. I had a lot of ups and downs in my journey, so I just want to thank them as well," he added. The off-spinner, who was not in the squad for the opening Test due to visa issues did not hesitate to make his presence felt and ended day the with figures of 100/2 in his 28 overs. Apart from Rohit, Bashir also got the better of Axar Patel (27) which may have helped him gain some confidence. He had to initially return back to England last week when his visa was delayed. ALSO READ | Ind vs Eng: Would be disappointing if England don't win the series, says Atherton after visitors' bright start However, the issues were sorted last week and the 20-year-old spinner finally made his debut against a star-steadied Indian side on Friday (Feb 2). What happened on Day 1? After winning the toss, India decided to bat first having made two changes to the side that lost in Hyderabad. Rohit and Yashavi Jaiswal opened for the Indian side with Rajat Paitdar and Mukesh Kumar coming in as two changes. While Rohit was dismissed early, it was his partner Jaiswal who was the difference-maker as he scored an unbeaten 179 with wickets falling at regular intervals.

IND vs ENG: Shoaib Bashir reflects on dream debut, says 'Rohit Sharma as my first wicket was very special'

<p>Former England captain Kevin Pietersen has backed struggling Indian batter Shubman Gill after he yet again failed to impress in the second Test match. Gill, whose average has taken a hit&nbsp;in&nbsp;last 10 Test matches is struggling for form despite having a breakthrough in 2023. However, Pietersen has come to the batter’s aid and insisted that he could go on to achieve big things like former South Africa great Jacques Kallis who also had a poor start to his Test career.</p>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Kallis averaged 22 in his first 10 Tests and turned out to be arguably the greatest player to play the game.<br />
<br />
Give <a href="https://twitter.com/ShubmanGill?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ShubmanGill</a> time to find it please.<br />
<br />
He’s a serious player! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a></p>
— Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) <a href="https://twitter.com/KP24/status/1753411798269833269?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 2, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Pietersen backs Gill</strong></h2>

<p>“Kallis averaged 22 in his first 10 Tests and turned out to be arguably the greatest player to play the game. Give Shubman Gill time to find it please. He’s a serious player,” Pietersen wrote on his X handle.</p>

<p>For the fifth time in his brief career, Gill was dismissed by James Anderson on 34 and was India’s second-highest scorer at Stumps on Day 1. The Indian batter has seen in slump in form after the ODI World Cup and has scored 166 runs in 11 innings with a best of 36 against South Africa in the first innings of the Cape Town Test in December. His average of 15 makes matters worse with India already struggling with injuries and key absentees. The Men in Blue have KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja injured while Virat Kohli is also unavailable due to personal reasons.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-would-be-disappointing-if-england-dont-win-the-series-says-atherton-after-visitors-bright-start-686235">Ind vs Eng: Would be disappointing if England don't win the series, says Atherton after visitors' bright start</a></p>

<p>In 2023, Gill scored 258 runs in 10 Test innings including a hundred against Australia in March. In the limited-overs format, he enjoyed more success including a double ton against New Zealand in January. Altogether he scored 1584 runs in 29 matches including five hundreds in the ODIs while T20Is he scored 312 runs with a best of unbeaten 126.</p>

<h2><strong>What happened on Day 1?</strong></h2>

<p>After winning the toss, India decided to bat first having made two changes to the side that lost in Hyderabad. Rohit and Yashavi Jaiswal opened for the Indian side with Rajat Paitdar and Mukesh Kumar coming in as two changes. While Rohit was dismissed early, it was his partner Jaiswal who was the difference-maker as he scored an unbeaten 179 with wickets falling at consistent intervals.&nbsp; India closed the day at 336/6 and will hope to cross 400 on the second day of the match.</p>


Former England captain Kevin Pietersen has backed struggling Indian batter Shubman Gill after he yet again failed to impress in the second Test match. Gill, whose average has taken a hit in last 10 Test matches is struggling for form despite having a breakthrough in 2023.

Former England captain Kevin Pietersen has backed struggling Indian batter Shubman Gill after he yet again failed to impress in the second Test match. Gill, whose average has taken a hit in last 10 Test matches is struggling for form despite having a breakthrough in 2023. However, Pietersen has come to the batter’s aid and insisted that he could go on to achieve big things like former South Africa great Jacques Kallis who also had a poor start to his Test career. Kallis averaged 22 in his first 10 Tests and turned out to be arguably the greatest player to play the game. Give @ShubmanGill time to find it please. He’s a serious player! #INDvENG — Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) February 2, 2024 × Pietersen backs Gill “Kallis averaged 22 in his first 10 Tests and turned out to be arguably the greatest player to play the game. Give Shubman Gill time to find it please. He’s a serious player,” Pietersen wrote on his X handle. For the fifth time in his brief career, Gill was dismissed by James Anderson on 34 and was India’s second-highest scorer at Stumps on Day 1. The Indian batter has seen in slump in form after the ODI World Cup and has scored 166 runs in 11 innings with a best of 36 against South Africa in the first innings of the Cape Town Test in December. His average of 15 makes matters worse with India already struggling with injuries and key absentees. The Men in Blue have KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja injured while Virat Kohli is also unavailable due to personal reasons. ALSO READ | Ind vs Eng: Would be disappointing if England don't win the series, says Atherton after visitors' bright start In 2023, Gill scored 258 runs in 10 Test innings including a hundred against Australia in March. In the limited-overs format, he enjoyed more success including a double ton against New Zealand in January. Altogether he scored 1584 runs in 29 matches including five hundreds in the ODIs while T20Is he scored 312 runs with a best of unbeaten 126. What happened on Day 1? After winning the toss, India decided to bat first having made two changes to the side that lost in Hyderabad. Rohit and Yashavi Jaiswal opened for the Indian side with Rajat Paitdar and Mukesh Kumar coming in as two changes. While Rohit was dismissed early, it was his partner Jaiswal who was the difference-maker as he scored an unbeaten 179 with wickets falling at consistent intervals. India closed the day at 336/6 and will hope to cross 400 on the second day of the match.

IND vs ENG: Kevin Pietersen backs Shubman Gill despite shaky form, compares to THIS legendary player

<p>Former India head coach Ravi Shastri has taken a dig at the Indian team management's squad choice for the second Test match against England in Visakhapatnam. Shastri, who proposed the inclusion of Washington Sundar for the match, thinks India have considerably weakened their batting by including Mukesh. India currently trail the five-match Test series 0-1 and will look to bounce back from their disappointing loss in Hyderabad.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">All set for the second <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a> Test 🏏<br />
<br />
India bat first after winning the toss in Visakhapatnam 👀<br />
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Follow <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WTC25?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WTC25</a> live: <a href="https://t.co/0eygiEna2n">https://t.co/0eygiEna2n</a> <a href="https://t.co/0t05VTQEk8">pic.twitter.com/0t05VTQEk8</a></p>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1753265757389996053?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 2, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Shastri takes a dig at team selection</strong></h2>

<p>"My only concern is picking Mukesh Kumar over Washington Sundar. How much of use will Mukesh be, especially after India is batting first on this Vizag surface," Ravi Shastri said while on commentary duty for the second Test match.</p>

<p>Considering India’s struggles in the opening Test match in Hyderabad, the batting unit has been under pressure despite scoring 436 in the first innings. India were 107/5 in the second innings which paved the way for the collapse and eventually handed England a precious win.</p>

<p>Sundar was only called into the Indian team at the last moment when KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja were ruled out due to injury. The duo is not fit to play the Vizag contest that kick-started on Friday (Feb 2), again weakening the batting unit.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-would-be-disappointing-if-england-dont-win-the-series-says-atherton-after-visitors-bright-start-686235">Ind vs Eng: Would be disappointing if England don't win the series, says Atherton after visitors' bright start</a></p>

<p>In the absence of the duo, Rajat Patidar has been handed a debut while Sarfaraz Khan, another last-moment call-up, will warm the bench.</p>

<h2><strong>Team News</strong></h2>

<p>India won the toss and have opted to bat first with them making two forced changes in the form of Jadeja and Rahul. England on the other hand have handed a debut to Shoaib Bashir who missed the first Test due to visa issues. James Anderson has also been recalled into the side with Mark Wood dropping to the bench for the visitors.</p>


Former India head coach Ravi Shastri has taken a dig at the Indian team management's squad choice for the second Test match against England in Visakhapatnam. Shastri, who proposed the inclusion of Washington Sundar for the match, thinks India have considerably weakened their batting by including Mukesh.

Former India head coach Ravi Shastri has taken a dig at the Indian team management's squad choice for the second Test match against England in Visakhapatnam. Shastri, who proposed the inclusion of Washington Sundar for the match, thinks India have considerably weakened their batting by including Mukesh. India currently trail the five-match Test series 0-1 and will look to bounce back from their disappointing loss in Hyderabad. All set for the second #INDvENG Test 🏏 India bat first after winning the toss in Visakhapatnam 👀 Follow #WTC25 live: https://t.co/0eygiEna2n pic.twitter.com/0t05VTQEk8 — ICC (@ICC) February 2, 2024 × Shastri takes a dig at team selection "My only concern is picking Mukesh Kumar over Washington Sundar. How much of use will Mukesh be, especially after India is batting first on this Vizag surface," Ravi Shastri said while on commentary duty for the second Test match. Considering India’s struggles in the opening Test match in Hyderabad, the batting unit has been under pressure despite scoring 436 in the first innings. India were 107/5 in the second innings which paved the way for the collapse and eventually handed England a precious win. Sundar was only called into the Indian team at the last moment when KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja were ruled out due to injury. The duo is not fit to play the Vizag contest that kick-started on Friday (Feb 2), again weakening the batting unit. ALSO READ | Ind vs Eng: Would be disappointing if England don't win the series, says Atherton after visitors' bright start In the absence of the duo, Rajat Patidar has been handed a debut while Sarfaraz Khan, another last-moment call-up, will warm the bench. Team News India won the toss and have opted to bat first with them making two forced changes in the form of Jadeja and Rahul. England on the other hand have handed a debut to Shoaib Bashir who missed the first Test due to visa issues. James Anderson has also been recalled into the side with Mark Wood dropping to the bench for the visitors.

IND vs ENG: Ravi Shastri takes a dig at India's team selection in Vizag, questions Mukesh Kumar's inclusion

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