India dominated proceedings in the fourth and penultimate T20I versus Rovman Powell-led West Indies to emerge on top by nine wickets&nbsp;while chasing&nbsp;179, on Saturday (August 12) in Florida. Being 0-2 down, Hardik Pandya &amp; Co. have displayed&nbsp;strong temperament to bounce back in style and level the five-match series 2-2 with the decider to be played on Sunday (August 13).

The fifth and final T20I will also be held at the same venue, i.e. at&nbsp;the Central Broward Regional Park Stadium Turf Ground, Lauderhill, Florida. So far, the weather has been kind throughout the series despite rain being forecasted during match days. Will the script remain&nbsp;the same on Sunday as well?

<h2>WEATHER FORECAST FOR 5th T20I</h2>

It is to be noted that the weather forecast for series finale predicts a humid day with periods of clouds and sunshine. Slight chances of&nbsp;a thunderstorm cannot be ruled out, as per weather.com, which is expected around&nbsp;noon local time. Some interruptions in play can be in store, however, no significant impact is expected. The rest of the day, until 6 pm local time, is expected to be mostly clear with periods of cloud and sun.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-wi-gill-jaiswal-can-become-indias-next-tendulkar-ganguly-uthappas-big-claim-after-4th-t20i-624967">Ind vs WI: 'Gill-Jaiswal can become India's next Tendulkar- Ganguly' - Uthappa's BIG claim after 4th T20I</a>

The maximum temperature&nbsp;is predicted to be around 34 degrees Celsius whereas the humidity is likely to remain on the higher side, staying in excess of&nbsp; 60 per cent. Despite a potential for a brief thunderstorm, fans and viewers across the globe will be able to enjoy a full game as rain isn't expected to have a major role in the series decider.

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West Indies won the first two games, by four runs and two wickets, respectively, before the Men in Blue bounced back with two straight wins -- by seven and nine wickets, respectively -- as the stage is set for a riveting series finale on Sunday evening.&nbsp;

Who will walk away with the series triumph? India or West Indies? Only time will tell...

&nbsp;

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India dominated proceedings in the fourth and penultimate T20I versus Rovman Powell-led West Indies to emerge on top by nine wickets while chasing 179, on Saturday (August 12) in Florida.

India dominated proceedings in the fourth and penultimate T20I versus Rovman Powell-led West Indies to emerge on top by nine wickets while chasing 179, on Saturday (August 12) in Florida. Being 0-2 down, Hardik Pandya & Co. have displayed strong temperament to bounce back in style and level the five-match series 2-2 with the decider to be played on Sunday (August 13). The fifth and final T20I will also be held at the same venue, i.e. at the Central Broward Regional Park Stadium Turf Ground, Lauderhill, Florida. So far, the weather has been kind throughout the series despite rain being forecasted during match days. Will the script remain the same on Sunday as well? WEATHER FORECAST FOR 5th T20I It is to be noted that the weather forecast for series finale predicts a humid day with periods of clouds and sunshine. Slight chances of a thunderstorm cannot be ruled out, as per weather.com, which is expected around noon local time. Some interruptions in play can be in store, however, no significant impact is expected. The rest of the day, until 6 pm local time, is expected to be mostly clear with periods of cloud and sun. Also read: Ind vs WI: 'Gill-Jaiswal can become India's next Tendulkar- Ganguly' - Uthappa's BIG claim after 4th T20I The maximum temperature is predicted to be around 34 degrees Celsius whereas the humidity is likely to remain on the higher side, staying in excess of 60 per cent. Despite a potential for a brief thunderstorm, fans and viewers across the globe will be able to enjoy a full game as rain isn't expected to have a major role in the series decider. West Indies won the first two games, by four runs and two wickets, respectively, before the Men in Blue bounced back with two straight wins -- by seven and nine wickets, respectively -- as the stage is set for a riveting series finale on Sunday evening. Who will walk away with the series triumph? India or West Indies? Only time will tell... WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India vs West Indies, 5th T20I: Will rain play a big role in series decider in Florida?

After winning the Test and ODI series, India have lost two straight T20Is to hosts West Indies in the ongoing five-match series. On Sunday (August 06), Hardik Pandya-led India faced West Indies, in Guyana, for the second T20I and lost by two wickets in defence of 152/7.

Opting to bat first, India rode on Tilak Verma's maiden half century (51) but failed to defend the score despite reducing the home side to 129 for 8, after which they were well-placed at 126 for 4. Hardik claimed three scalps whereas Yuzvendra Chahal picked two wickets, but India conceded the match due to late hits from Alzarri Joseph-Akeal Hossain.

After yet another loss, former Team India pacer Venkatesh Prasad -- who remains vocal on Indian cricket on social media platforms -- slammed the national side for 'lack of intensity' and 'hunger'.

<h2>'After IPL started,&nbsp;we haven't won a T20 World Cup&nbsp;'</h2>

On the platform X, formerly known as Twitter, Prasad wrote, "Very, very ordinary. No point in brushing it aside. After the 2007 T20 World Cup, IPL started and we haven't won a T20 World Cup in 7 attempts since, making only 1 final. The intensity and hunger to win needs to be far more."

"Yesterday after Yuzi took 2 wickets in the 16th over and got India back into the game in what was his third over and West Indies 8th down and he didn't bowl again and No 9 and 10 for WI found the pacers easy to handle. Should be smarter at these moments then just doing textbook stuff," he mentioned.

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Very very ordinary. No point in brushing it aside. After the 2007 T20 World Cup, IPL started and we haven’t won a T20 World Cup in 7 attempts since, making only 1 finals. The intensity and hunger to win needs to be far more . 
Yesterday after Yuzi took 2 wkts in the 16th, cont <a href="https://t.co/xNOfjqZJeG">https://t.co/xNOfjqZJeG</a>
— Venkatesh Prasad (@venkateshprasad) <a href="https://twitter.com/venkateshprasad/status/1688345919501246464?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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And Yuzi got India back into the game in what was his third over and West Indies 8th down and he didn’t bowl again and No 9 and 10 for WI found the pacers easy to handle. Should be smarter at these moments then just doing textbook stuff.
— Venkatesh Prasad (@venkateshprasad) <a href="https://twitter.com/venkateshprasad/status/1688346684877950976?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Many have slammed captain Hardik for not using Chahal properly as the in-form spinner didn't complete his full quota of overs whereas Axar Patel was never used at all.&nbsp;

At the post-match presentation, Hardik said, "If am being honest that was a not a pleasing batting performance, we could have batted better. 160+ or 170 would have been a good total."

India will lock horns with West Indies in the third T20I at the same venue, i.e. the Providence Stadium, Guyana, to keep the series alive. Meanwhile, Rovman Powell-led Windies will&nbsp;aim for an unassailable lead.

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After winning the Test and ODI series, India have lost two straight T20Is to hosts West Indies in the ongoing five-match series. On Sunday (August 06), Hardik Pandya-led India faced West Indies, in Guyana, for the second T20I and lost by two wickets in defence of 152/7.

After winning the Test and ODI series, India have lost two straight T20Is to hosts West Indies in the ongoing five-match series. On Sunday (August 06), Hardik Pandya-led India faced West Indies, in Guyana, for the second T20I and lost by two wickets in defence of 152/7. Opting to bat first, India rode on Tilak Verma's maiden half century (51) but failed to defend the score despite reducing the home side to 129 for 8, after which they were well-placed at 126 for 4. Hardik claimed three scalps whereas Yuzvendra Chahal picked two wickets, but India conceded the match due to late hits from Alzarri Joseph-Akeal Hossain. After yet another loss, former Team India pacer Venkatesh Prasad -- who remains vocal on Indian cricket on social media platforms -- slammed the national side for 'lack of intensity' and 'hunger'. 'After IPL started, we haven't won a T20 World Cup ' On the platform X, formerly known as Twitter, Prasad wrote, "Very, very ordinary. No point in brushing it aside. After the 2007 T20 World Cup, IPL started and we haven't won a T20 World Cup in 7 attempts since, making only 1 final. The intensity and hunger to win needs to be far more." "Yesterday after Yuzi took 2 wickets in the 16th over and got India back into the game in what was his third over and West Indies 8th down and he didn't bowl again and No 9 and 10 for WI found the pacers easy to handle. Should be smarter at these moments then just doing textbook stuff," he mentioned. Very very ordinary. No point in brushing it aside. After the 2007 T20 World Cup, IPL started and we haven’t won a T20 World Cup in 7 attempts since, making only 1 finals. The intensity and hunger to win needs to be far more . Yesterday after Yuzi took 2 wkts in the 16th, cont https://t.co/xNOfjqZJeG — Venkatesh Prasad (@venkateshprasad) August 7, 2023 × And Yuzi got India back into the game in what was his third over and West Indies 8th down and he didn’t bowl again and No 9 and 10 for WI found the pacers easy to handle. Should be smarter at these moments then just doing textbook stuff. — Venkatesh Prasad (@venkateshprasad) August 7, 2023 × Also read: Stop admonishing Rahul Dravid for everything: Former India pacer backs under-fire coach amid defeats vs WI Many have slammed captain Hardik for not using Chahal properly as the in-form spinner didn't complete his full quota of overs whereas Axar Patel was never used at all. At the post-match presentation, Hardik said, "If am being honest that was a not a pleasing batting performance, we could have batted better. 160+ or 170 would have been a good total." India will lock horns with West Indies in the third T20I at the same venue, i.e. the Providence Stadium, Guyana, to keep the series alive. Meanwhile, Rovman Powell-led Windies will aim for an unassailable lead. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ind vs WI, 2nd T20I: Former pacer Venkatesh Prasad rips apart Team India for 'lack of 'intensity'

India thrashed West Indies by 200 runs in the third and final ODI&nbsp;at&nbsp;Trinidad, to win the three-match series 2-1. After the series opener, where India won by five wickets, India rested regular captain Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. While the Hardik Pandya-led second-stringed side lost the second and penultimate tie, by six wickets, they were at their dominant best in the series decider, on Tuesday (August 01).

Talking about the final ODI, India opted to bat first and rode on fifties from Shubman Gill (85), Ishan Kishan (77), Sanju Samson (51) and skipper Hardik's 52-ball 70* to post 351/5. In reply, Shai Hope-led Windies were bundled out for 151 in 35.3 overs and lost&nbsp;by 200 runs. While Ishan and Gill made a strong case ahead of the ODI World Cup, Samson also did well with an attacking 51.&nbsp;

Samson has only played 13 ODIs since his international debut in 2015. He has scored 390 runs, with three fifties,&nbsp;at an average of 55.71. In 12 innings, he has surpassed the 30-run mark on seven occasions. However, he has never managed to get a long rope and has only featured in the absence of regulars. After his knock, former Indian stumper Saba Karim lauded Samson and labelled him as a 'perfect team man'.

<h2>'Sanju Samson is an enigma'</h2>

"Sanju Samson is an enigma for me. He bats so well. He is a gifted player. Today, his innings was like a whiff of fresh air. He said that that his intent was to go out and be aggressive. The way he handled the leg-spinner, who was looking quite good at that point in time, was so refreshing to watch. This is what Sanju Samson is capable of," Saba Karim told JioCinema after India's ODI series triumph over West Indies.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/being-an-indian-cricketer-is-challenging-says-sanju-samson-after-a-blistering-51-in-ind-vs-wi-3rd-odi-621607">Being an Indian cricketer is challenging, says Sanju Samson after a blistering 51 in IND vs WI 3rd ODI</a>

Karim added, "Sanju Samson has not got a series of chances. He has got in only when your regular players have been rested. It's not been an easy journey so far. But the fact remains that Sanju is still raring to go."

"You send him at No.3, he is more than happy. You send him at No.4, he scores a fifty. You send him down the order.. he is always there as a perfect team man. This is a just reward for Samson's persistence to be in the reckoning in the ODI squad."

Samson is part of Hardik-led India's T20I squad for the upcoming five games, which kicks off on August 03. The right-hander will be eager to make some big runs and feature in&nbsp;India's Asia Cup and ODI World Cup campaigns.

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India thrashed West Indies by 200 runs in the third and final ODI at Trinidad, to win the three-match series 2-1. After the series opener, where India won by five wickets, India rested regular captain Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli.

India thrashed West Indies by 200 runs in the third and final ODI at Trinidad, to win the three-match series 2-1. After the series opener, where India won by five wickets, India rested regular captain Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. While the Hardik Pandya-led second-stringed side lost the second and penultimate tie, by six wickets, they were at their dominant best in the series decider, on Tuesday (August 01). Talking about the final ODI, India opted to bat first and rode on fifties from Shubman Gill (85), Ishan Kishan (77), Sanju Samson (51) and skipper Hardik's 52-ball 70* to post 351/5. In reply, Shai Hope-led Windies were bundled out for 151 in 35.3 overs and lost by 200 runs. While Ishan and Gill made a strong case ahead of the ODI World Cup, Samson also did well with an attacking 51. Samson has only played 13 ODIs since his international debut in 2015. He has scored 390 runs, with three fifties, at an average of 55.71. In 12 innings, he has surpassed the 30-run mark on seven occasions. However, he has never managed to get a long rope and has only featured in the absence of regulars. After his knock, former Indian stumper Saba Karim lauded Samson and labelled him as a 'perfect team man'. 'Sanju Samson is an enigma' "Sanju Samson is an enigma for me. He bats so well. He is a gifted player. Today, his innings was like a whiff of fresh air. He said that that his intent was to go out and be aggressive. The way he handled the leg-spinner, who was looking quite good at that point in time, was so refreshing to watch. This is what Sanju Samson is capable of," Saba Karim told JioCinema after India's ODI series triumph over West Indies. Also read: Being an Indian cricketer is challenging, says Sanju Samson after a blistering 51 in IND vs WI 3rd ODI Karim added, "Sanju Samson has not got a series of chances. He has got in only when your regular players have been rested. It's not been an easy journey so far. But the fact remains that Sanju is still raring to go." "You send him at No.3, he is more than happy. You send him at No.4, he scores a fifty. You send him down the order.. he is always there as a perfect team man. This is a just reward for Samson's persistence to be in the reckoning in the ODI squad." Samson is part of Hardik-led India's T20I squad for the upcoming five games, which kicks off on August 03. The right-hander will be eager to make some big runs and feature in India's Asia Cup and ODI World Cup campaigns. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

IND vs WI: 'He hasn't got many chances but remains....' - Former Indian stumper lauds Sanju Samson

Rohit Sharma-led India is set to lock horns with West Indies in the forthcoming two-match Test series, which commences on July 12. The series will kick off India's campaign in the ongoing ICC World Test Championship 2023-25 cycle. After finishing second in the previous two cycles, India will be desperate to get hold of the coveted Test mace and for that, they require a great start in the Caribbean.

Rohit has been serving as India's full-time captain since early 2022. Under him, India reached the semi-finals of the 2022 T20 World Cup but were thrashed by eventual winners England by ten wickets. In the 2021-23 WTC cycle, India played the final where Australia beat them by 209 runs, last month, at The Oval, London. Thus, the 2023-25 cycle is vital for Rohit as India will require a good start under him. Moreover, the ODI World Cup is set to take place later this year, at home, and Rohit &amp; Co. are one of the favourites.

Overall, a lot is riding on Rohit's shoulders at present. After India's WTC final defeat, many raised fingers at Rohit's leadership, including former cricketers such as Sunil Gavaskar. He was also trolled after India's T20 World Cup and Asia Cup debacle last year. However, he has found the backing of former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh.

<h2>'It is unfair to criticise Rohit alone'</h2>

"I find that people are going a bit overboard... the way Rohit has been criticised. Cricket is a team sport and one individual cannot take you from one place to another," Harbhajan told PTI ahead of India's Test series versus West Indies. He further opined, "Team India didn't do well in the WTC final, and yes, you talk about that performance and move on from there. But it is unfair to criticise Rohit alone, that he is not scoring runs, putting on weight, not captaining well. I think he is a brilliant leader."

"I have played with him (Rohit) and watched him closely. He commands a lot of respect not only in the MI dressing room but also in the Indian dressing room. So I think it's unfair to judge him on the basis of recent results. He will come good and we need to show faith in him and we need to support him rather than pinpointing that you are not doing this or that," Bhajji asserted.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-expected-more-sunil-gavaskar-on-rohit-sharmas-captaincy-performance-stst-613812">Sunil Gavaskar, disappointed with Rohit Sharma's captaincy, says he expected more</a>

In the past, Indian captains have enjoyed relentless support from&nbsp;the BCCI and its most powerful administrator. For instance, Sourav Ganguly relied on&nbsp;Jagmohan Dalmiya's support whereas MS Dhoni had the strong backing of N Srinivasan. In addition, Virat Kohli -- Rohit's predecessor -- took several decisions which were supported by&nbsp;Vinod Rai, the former CAG and Committee of Administrators (CoA) head.&nbsp;Thus,&nbsp;Harbhajan -- also known as the Turbanator -- hopes that Rohit receives the same level of support from the BCCI.

In this regard, Bhajji added, "If you have the support from BCCI, you can work freely. Not just MS Dhoni or Virat Kohli, if you go back a little further, a lot of captains have got support from BCCI presidents of that time.

"Rohit must be getting support from BCCI. I don't know how much support he must be getting (though). Having that kind of support will help him take right kind of decision at the right time. He will get that liberty if he has that support. Support must be there for Rohit like BCCI has given it to all its captains."

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Rohit Sharma-led India is set to lock horns with West Indies in the forthcoming two-match Test series, which commences on July 12. The series will kick off India's campaign in the ongoing ICC World Test Championship 2023-25 cycle.

Rohit Sharma-led India is set to lock horns with West Indies in the forthcoming two-match Test series, which commences on July 12. The series will kick off India's campaign in the ongoing ICC World Test Championship 2023-25 cycle. After finishing second in the previous two cycles, India will be desperate to get hold of the coveted Test mace and for that, they require a great start in the Caribbean. Rohit has been serving as India's full-time captain since early 2022. Under him, India reached the semi-finals of the 2022 T20 World Cup but were thrashed by eventual winners England by ten wickets. In the 2021-23 WTC cycle, India played the final where Australia beat them by 209 runs, last month, at The Oval, London. Thus, the 2023-25 cycle is vital for Rohit as India will require a good start under him. Moreover, the ODI World Cup is set to take place later this year, at home, and Rohit & Co. are one of the favourites. Overall, a lot is riding on Rohit's shoulders at present. After India's WTC final defeat, many raised fingers at Rohit's leadership, including former cricketers such as Sunil Gavaskar. He was also trolled after India's T20 World Cup and Asia Cup debacle last year. However, he has found the backing of former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh. 'It is unfair to criticise Rohit alone' "I find that people are going a bit overboard... the way Rohit has been criticised. Cricket is a team sport and one individual cannot take you from one place to another," Harbhajan told PTI ahead of India's Test series versus West Indies. He further opined, "Team India didn't do well in the WTC final, and yes, you talk about that performance and move on from there. But it is unfair to criticise Rohit alone, that he is not scoring runs, putting on weight, not captaining well. I think he is a brilliant leader." "I have played with him (Rohit) and watched him closely. He commands a lot of respect not only in the MI dressing room but also in the Indian dressing room. So I think it's unfair to judge him on the basis of recent results. He will come good and we need to show faith in him and we need to support him rather than pinpointing that you are not doing this or that," Bhajji asserted. Also Read: Sunil Gavaskar, disappointed with Rohit Sharma's captaincy, says he expected more In the past, Indian captains have enjoyed relentless support from the BCCI and its most powerful administrator. For instance, Sourav Ganguly relied on Jagmohan Dalmiya's support whereas MS Dhoni had the strong backing of N Srinivasan. In addition, Virat Kohli -- Rohit's predecessor -- took several decisions which were supported by Vinod Rai, the former CAG and Committee of Administrators (CoA) head. Thus, Harbhajan -- also known as the Turbanator -- hopes that Rohit receives the same level of support from the BCCI. In this regard, Bhajji added, "If you have the support from BCCI, you can work freely. Not just MS Dhoni or Virat Kohli, if you go back a little further, a lot of captains have got support from BCCI presidents of that time. "Rohit must be getting support from BCCI. I don't know how much support he must be getting (though). Having that kind of support will help him take right kind of decision at the right time. He will get that liberty if he has that support. Support must be there for Rohit like BCCI has given it to all its captains." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

People are going overboard: Harbhajan Singh backs under-fire captain Rohit Sharma ahead of WI tour

On Friday (June 23), the BCCI selection committee named India's squads&nbsp;for their two-match Test series and three ODIs versus West Indies as the tour commences next month in the Caribbean. Rohit Sharma retained captaincy of the 16-man Test squad, despite criticism after India's WTC final loss, whereas Ajinkya Rahane regained the vice-captaincy post.

Rahane served as Virat Kohli's deputy in whites for a long time and even led the team with aplomb in his absence before losing the post in late 2021. Soon, he even lost his spot before making his comeback during the WTC finale versus Australia early this month, where he returned with a sublime 89 and 46. With injuries to Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant and Jasprit Bumrah, Rahane once again got the vice-captaincy back and Little Master Sunil Gavaskar reacted to the same.

Gavaskar said there is 'nothing wrong' in Rahane regaining vice-captaincy but feels there was an opportunity lost to name a youngster as Rohit's deputy for the Windies tour. Talking to Sports Today, he said, "There is nothing wrong in having him [Ajinkya Rahane] as the vice-captain, but a missed opportunity to groom a young player. At least, tell a young player that we are looking at you as a future captain. So, he starts to think as a future leader."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-james-anderson-nathan-lyon-throw-ceremonial-pitches-during-mlb-london-game-watch-608671">Ashes 2023: James Anderson, Nathan Lyon throw ceremonial pitches during MLB London game - WATCH</a>

<h2>'One is Shubman Gill and the other is....'</h2>

Further, Gavaskar named three youngsters who can lead India in whites going forward. "One is Shubman Gill and the other is Axar Patel [as future captains] because Axar comes in leaps and bounds, he just gets better every match. Giving him the responsibility as vice-captain will make them think. So, these are the two candidates in my view. If there are others, somebody like Ishan Kishan, once he cements his place in the team. He can come in the reckoning as well," the veteran added.

India's tour of West Indies kicks off on July 12, comprising two Tests, three ODIs and five T20Is.

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&nbsp;

On Friday (June 23), the BCCI selection committee named India's squads for their two-match Test series and three ODIs versus West Indies as the tour commences next month in the Caribbean.

On Friday (June 23), the BCCI selection committee named India's squads for their two-match Test series and three ODIs versus West Indies as the tour commences next month in the Caribbean. Rohit Sharma retained captaincy of the 16-man Test squad, despite criticism after India's WTC final loss, whereas Ajinkya Rahane regained the vice-captaincy post. Rahane served as Virat Kohli's deputy in whites for a long time and even led the team with aplomb in his absence before losing the post in late 2021. Soon, he even lost his spot before making his comeback during the WTC finale versus Australia early this month, where he returned with a sublime 89 and 46. With injuries to Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant and Jasprit Bumrah, Rahane once again got the vice-captaincy back and Little Master Sunil Gavaskar reacted to the same. Gavaskar said there is 'nothing wrong' in Rahane regaining vice-captaincy but feels there was an opportunity lost to name a youngster as Rohit's deputy for the Windies tour. Talking to Sports Today, he said, "There is nothing wrong in having him [Ajinkya Rahane] as the vice-captain, but a missed opportunity to groom a young player. At least, tell a young player that we are looking at you as a future captain. So, he starts to think as a future leader." Also Read: Ashes 2023: James Anderson, Nathan Lyon throw ceremonial pitches during MLB London game - WATCH 'One is Shubman Gill and the other is....' Further, Gavaskar named three youngsters who can lead India in whites going forward. "One is Shubman Gill and the other is Axar Patel [as future captains] because Axar comes in leaps and bounds, he just gets better every match. Giving him the responsibility as vice-captain will make them think. So, these are the two candidates in my view. If there are others, somebody like Ishan Kishan, once he cements his place in the team. He can come in the reckoning as well," the veteran added. India's tour of West Indies kicks off on July 12, comprising two Tests, three ODIs and five T20Is. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Gavaskar opines on Rahane regaining vice-captaincy, suggests three names as India's next Test skipper

With World Cup 2023 set to begin in around three months, the absence of star players continues to haunt Team India. Shreyas Iyer’s back pain is said to be troubling him again as the middle-order batter is unlikely to get fit in time for the Asia Cup 2023, scheduled from August 31 to September 17.

Having last played a competitive game back in March during the final Test of the Border-Gavaskar series in Ahmedabad, Iyer missed all the action since, including the ODI series against Australia, the IPL 2023 for Kolkata Knight Riders and the World Test Championship (WTC) Final at the Oval.

Although Ajinkya Rahane filled his shoes in the one-off Test, scoring 89 and 46 in two innings, Iyer’s absence was felt as India failed to win the Test title for the second straight time.

Meanwhile, Iyer underwent back surgery in London and continues to undergo physiotherapy at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru. As per the source close to the information, Iyer is still dealing with back pain, while his chances of getting fit in time for the multi-team tournament, co-hosted by Pakistan and Sri Lanka this time, look bleak.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-is-not-getting-ignored-because-of-cricketing-reasons-bcci-officials-on-sarfarazs-absence-from-wi-tour-608593">'He is not getting ignored because of cricketing reasons..': BCCI official on Sarfaraz Khan's non-selection</a>

“Iyer recently took an injection for his back pain at the BCCI’s National Cricket Academy. His back is still giving him trouble,” a source told the Times of India (TOI).

<h2>Road ahead looks rough for Iyer</h2>

After a brilliant 2022 with the bat in ODIs, wherein he scored 724 runs from 15 innings, Iyer shined in the away two-match Test series against Bangladesh later last year; but again missed the home New Zealand series due to a reoccurrence of pain in his back. Though he missed the first Test against Australia in Nagpur for the same reason, Iyer returned for the remaining three Tests. &nbsp;

Even for forthcoming India’s tour of the West Indies, which begins with the first of the two Tests on July 12 in Dominica, Ajinkya Rahane has retained his place, while Ruturaj Gaikwad and Yashasvi Jaiswal are picked as backups.&nbsp;

As selectors continue to ignore Sarfaraz Khan for the middle-order spot in Tests despite his gigantic numbers in the past three years in Ranji Trophy, it looks like a blessing in disguise for Iyer – on whom the selection committee is banking.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, in the white-ball circuit, India tried Suryakumar Yadav during the Aussies, but he failed miserably, getting out on a first-ball duck in three straight matches. With Iyer not in the scheme of things for now, India will either continue with SKY in the middle overs or rope in a new face, someone like Sanju Samson, ahead of the home World Cup in October-November.

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With World Cup 2023 set to begin in around three months, the absence of star players continues to haunt Team India. Shreyas Iyer’s back pain is said to be troubling him again as the middle-order batter is unlikely to get fit in time for the Asia Cup 2023, scheduled from August 31 to September 17.

With World Cup 2023 set to begin in around three months, the absence of star players continues to haunt Team India. Shreyas Iyer’s back pain is said to be troubling him again as the middle-order batter is unlikely to get fit in time for the Asia Cup 2023, scheduled from August 31 to September 17. Having last played a competitive game back in March during the final Test of the Border-Gavaskar series in Ahmedabad, Iyer missed all the action since, including the ODI series against Australia, the IPL 2023 for Kolkata Knight Riders and the World Test Championship (WTC) Final at the Oval. Although Ajinkya Rahane filled his shoes in the one-off Test, scoring 89 and 46 in two innings, Iyer’s absence was felt as India failed to win the Test title for the second straight time. Meanwhile, Iyer underwent back surgery in London and continues to undergo physiotherapy at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru. As per the source close to the information, Iyer is still dealing with back pain, while his chances of getting fit in time for the multi-team tournament, co-hosted by Pakistan and Sri Lanka this time, look bleak. ALSO READ: 'He is not getting ignored because of cricketing reasons..': BCCI official on Sarfaraz Khan's non-selection “Iyer recently took an injection for his back pain at the BCCI’s National Cricket Academy. His back is still giving him trouble,” a source told the Times of India (TOI). Road ahead looks rough for Iyer After a brilliant 2022 with the bat in ODIs, wherein he scored 724 runs from 15 innings, Iyer shined in the away two-match Test series against Bangladesh later last year; but again missed the home New Zealand series due to a reoccurrence of pain in his back. Though he missed the first Test against Australia in Nagpur for the same reason, Iyer returned for the remaining three Tests. Even for forthcoming India’s tour of the West Indies, which begins with the first of the two Tests on July 12 in Dominica, Ajinkya Rahane has retained his place, while Ruturaj Gaikwad and Yashasvi Jaiswal are picked as backups. As selectors continue to ignore Sarfaraz Khan for the middle-order spot in Tests despite his gigantic numbers in the past three years in Ranji Trophy, it looks like a blessing in disguise for Iyer – on whom the selection committee is banking. Meanwhile, in the white-ball circuit, India tried Suryakumar Yadav during the Aussies, but he failed miserably, getting out on a first-ball duck in three straight matches. With Iyer not in the scheme of things for now, India will either continue with SKY in the middle overs or rope in a new face, someone like Sanju Samson, ahead of the home World Cup in October-November. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Shreyas Iyer remains doubtful for Asia Cup 2023 as back pain continues to trouble him

The BCCI plans to add two more T20Is to the already scheduled tour of Windies later this year, as per&nbsp;reports. The board is also plotting to fix a short series with either Sri Lanka or Afghanistan right after the World Test Championship final, scheduled in London on June 7th. As of now, India will travel to the Caribbean Islands in July for two Tests, three ODIs, and five T20Is, instead of three earlier.

Although the dates and venues for the same are not out yet, Cricket West Indies (CWI) president Ricky Skerritt, in a statement given to Cricbuzz, informed, "The schedule will be out soonest." This call was taken on the sidelines of the latest ICC meetings in Dubai.

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When asked if the rumours of two T20Is getting added to the tour are true, Ricky neither accepted nor denied and said, "BCCI and CWI have a healthy bilateral relationship that is based on mutual respect and understanding of each other's needs and role in world cricket," as quoted in Cricbuzz.

Meanwhile, as far as a tour with either Sri Lanka or Afghanistan is concerned, BCCI must find a window to make it happen after the end of the WTC final and before the India-Windies ten-match series, that begins somewhere around 10-12 July. If this goes ahead, the board will also have to find a short-term broadcast deal for that period, as a new deal is unlikely to get signed by then.

However, after the tour of Windies, India will travel to Ireland during the third week of August for the second straight year for three T20Is.

As things stand, the Indian players will first play the IPL from March 31st till May 21st and then will play the WTC final. Afterwards,&nbsp;a series against either Sri Lanka or Afghanistan will go ahead. It doesn’t end here, as team India will then face Windies, and then Ireland and then will compete in the 2023 Asia Cup, whose schedule is not out declared either. India will host Australia for three home ODIs before hosting the World Cup in October-November.

The BCCI plans to add two more T20Is to the already scheduled tour of Windies later this year, as per reports. The board is also plotting to fix a short series with either Sri Lanka or Afghanistan right after the World Test Championship final, scheduled in London on June 7th.

The BCCI plans to add two more T20Is to the already scheduled tour of Windies later this year, as per reports. The board is also plotting to fix a short series with either Sri Lanka or Afghanistan right after the World Test Championship final, scheduled in London on June 7th. As of now, India will travel to the Caribbean Islands in July for two Tests, three ODIs, and five T20Is, instead of three earlier. Although the dates and venues for the same are not out yet, Cricket West Indies (CWI) president Ricky Skerritt, in a statement given to Cricbuzz, informed, "The schedule will be out soonest." This call was taken on the sidelines of the latest ICC meetings in Dubai. ALSO READ: IPL 2023: Punjab Kings announce uncapped Australian Matthew Short as Jonny Bairstow's replacement When asked if the rumours of two T20Is getting added to the tour are true, Ricky neither accepted nor denied and said, "BCCI and CWI have a healthy bilateral relationship that is based on mutual respect and understanding of each other's needs and role in world cricket," as quoted in Cricbuzz. Meanwhile, as far as a tour with either Sri Lanka or Afghanistan is concerned, BCCI must find a window to make it happen after the end of the WTC final and before the India-Windies ten-match series, that begins somewhere around 10-12 July. If this goes ahead, the board will also have to find a short-term broadcast deal for that period, as a new deal is unlikely to get signed by then. However, after the tour of Windies, India will travel to Ireland during the third week of August for the second straight year for three T20Is. As things stand, the Indian players will first play the IPL from March 31st till May 21st and then will play the WTC final. Afterwards, a series against either Sri Lanka or Afghanistan will go ahead. It doesn’t end here, as team India will then face Windies, and then Ireland and then will compete in the 2023 Asia Cup, whose schedule is not out declared either. India will host Australia for three home ODIs before hosting the World Cup in October-November.

BCCI plan to add 2 T20Is on scheduled Windies tour, India could play Sri Lanka in short series after WTC final