<p>Former India men’s team selector Sarandeep Singh backs Rajat Patidar to replace injured KL Rahul in the playing XI for the second Test against England. With the captain and the selection committee juggling between choosing two newcomers - Rajat and Sarfaraz Khan, Sarandeep feels Rajat leads the race and could make his Test debut in Vizag.</p>

<p>He said for India to get back into the series after losing the first Test, bringing in Kuldeep Yadav for Jadeja could be a deal-breaker. Mentioning not copying England’s playing style of three spinners with a sole seamer, Sarandeep added India’s strength is picking two seamers and two spinners and should go ahead with that.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It is pretty simple for me. Rajat Patidar comes in for Rahul, and Kuldeep comes in for Jadeja. We don't need to copy England and play four spinners. Playing with two pacers and three spinners has been our strength at home. We need to stick to it," he said, as quoted by the Times of India.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-foakes-stumping-attempt-to-dismiss-bumrah-in-hyderabad-test-raises-eyebrows-on-x-watch-685103">Ind vs Eng: Foakes' stumping attempt to dismiss Bumrah in Hyderabad Test raises eyebrows on X - Watch</a></strong></p>

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<p>Sarandeep also addressed the elephant in the room concerning Shubman Gill’s batting position and his form in the Tests. The former India spinner said Gill is not a natural number three batter and must open from the next Test onwards, with Captain Rohit Sharma demoting himself to that spot to balance the batting order.</p>

<h2>Gill is not Pujara’s replacement</h2>

<p>Following dropping two seasoned campaigners – Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane from Tests since the West Indies tour last year, India backed Gill to take up the vacant number three slot and deliver, something he failed at doing so. Although he was among runs in the first innings, Gill got out for a duck on the&nbsp;second ball in the second one.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Providing an answer to this query, Sarandeep said knowing Rohit plays spin batter and with softer hands, he should drop down to the number three position from the next Test onwards.</p>

<p>"Gill is not a number three player. He should open. Rohit is one of the best players of spin and can drop down to accommodate Gill at the top," Sarandeep added.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, England is unlikely to change their playing XI for the second Test.&nbsp;</p>

<p>England won the first Test in Hyderabad despite trailing behind by 190 runs in the first innings. Thanks to an incredible 196 by Ollie Pope in the second innings, they posted a mammoth 420, giving India the target of 231 runs. The home team was tumbled on 202, losing the Test by 28 runs.</p>


Former India men’s team selector Sarandeep Singh backs Rajat Patidar to replace injured KL Rahul in the playing XI for the second Test against England. With the captain and the selection committee juggling between choosing two newcomers - Rajat and Sarfaraz Khan, Sarandeep feels Rajat leads the race and could make his Test debut in Vizag.

Former India men’s team selector Sarandeep Singh backs Rajat Patidar to replace injured KL Rahul in the playing XI for the second Test against England. With the captain and the selection committee juggling between choosing two newcomers - Rajat and Sarfaraz Khan, Sarandeep feels Rajat leads the race and could make his Test debut in Vizag. He said for India to get back into the series after losing the first Test, bringing in Kuldeep Yadav for Jadeja could be a deal-breaker. Mentioning not copying England’s playing style of three spinners with a sole seamer, Sarandeep added India’s strength is picking two seamers and two spinners and should go ahead with that. "It is pretty simple for me. Rajat Patidar comes in for Rahul, and Kuldeep comes in for Jadeja. We don't need to copy England and play four spinners. Playing with two pacers and three spinners has been our strength at home. We need to stick to it," he said, as quoted by the Times of India. ALSO READ: Ind vs Eng: Foakes' stumping attempt to dismiss Bumrah in Hyderabad Test raises eyebrows on X - Watch × Sarandeep also addressed the elephant in the room concerning Shubman Gill’s batting position and his form in the Tests. The former India spinner said Gill is not a natural number three batter and must open from the next Test onwards, with Captain Rohit Sharma demoting himself to that spot to balance the batting order. Gill is not Pujara’s replacement Following dropping two seasoned campaigners – Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane from Tests since the West Indies tour last year, India backed Gill to take up the vacant number three slot and deliver, something he failed at doing so. Although he was among runs in the first innings, Gill got out for a duck on the second ball in the second one. Providing an answer to this query, Sarandeep said knowing Rohit plays spin batter and with softer hands, he should drop down to the number three position from the next Test onwards. "Gill is not a number three player. He should open. Rohit is one of the best players of spin and can drop down to accommodate Gill at the top," Sarandeep added. Meanwhile, England is unlikely to change their playing XI for the second Test. England won the first Test in Hyderabad despite trailing behind by 190 runs in the first innings. Thanks to an incredible 196 by Ollie Pope in the second innings, they posted a mammoth 420, giving India the target of 231 runs. The home team was tumbled on 202, losing the Test by 28 runs.

IND v ENG, 2nd Test - Rajat, not Sarfaraz, should replace Rahul; Gill not a number 3 batter: Sarandeep Singh

<p>Short-pitched balls are Shreyas Iyer's&nbsp;nemesis, at least for the pundits, social media fans and most experts, if not for the batter himself. India’s mainstay in the middle order across all formats, Iyer has been tested against the best of bowlers on some toughest pitches lately, and yet, on several occasions, he came out on top. Vouching against feeling discomfort while facing short balls, Iyer said he would stick to his attacking template irrespective of anything.</p>

<p>Following a below-par show in South Africa, where he scored 0, 4*, 31 and 6 across four innings, Iyer returned to domestic cricket to prepare for the England Tests starting January 25 in Hyderabad. Against Andhra in the recently-concluded Ranji Trophy game, the right-handed batter scored a run-a-ball 48 in Mumbai’s ten-wicket win on Monday.</p>

<p>Though the Andhra bowlers bowled negative lines and pitched it short to Iyer, restricting him from playing his natural strokes, the India batter dodged most deliveries, smashing the bad ones for four.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nasser-hussain-issues-warning-to-hosts-as-englands-bazball-gets-ready-for-india-tests-680273">Nasser Hussain issues warning to hosts as England’s Bazball gets ready for India Tests</a></strong></p>

<p>"I'm going to play attacking irrespective of the situation," Iyer said after Mumbai's win.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"And also, when you bowl negative when you bowl safe and defensive at the start, you want to score runs, and you need to take your team through up to a certain point. So that was my mindset, and that's why stuck with. Yeah, I was happy [with my knock] irrespective of the score,” he added.</p>

<h2>New summer, new innings</h2>

<p>After shining bright and high during the 2022 season, where he was the top-run-getter across formats, hitting 1489 runs in 38 innings, Iyer suffered a back injury that kept him away from the first half of the next year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Although he returned in some style, smashing daddy runs during the home 2023 World Cup, Iyer still feels the need to become India’s go-to-batter in times to come.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH -&nbsp;Nepal's star cricketer Sandeep Lamichhane jailed for eight years for rape</strong></p>

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<p>The wicket he batted on during the Ranji game was far from being a rank-turner, Iyer believes against England, the surface on offer would be spin-friendly and that he is ready for it.</p>

<p>"It wasn't a turning track, to be honest, he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I'm assuming that we would be getting turning wickets against England. But other than that, it was just for my match fitness, to stay on the field as long as possible, that's what mainly I was focusing on because especially after my injury, it has been tough for me to stick on the outfield for long. So this was great practice for me,” Iyer added.&nbsp;</p>


Short-pitched balls are Shreyas Iyer's nemesis, at least for the pundits, social media fans and most experts, if not for the batter himself. India’s mainstay in the middle order across all formats, Iyer has been tested against the best of bowlers on some toughest pitches lately, and yet, on several occasions, he came out on top.

Short-pitched balls are Shreyas Iyer's nemesis, at least for the pundits, social media fans and most experts, if not for the batter himself. India’s mainstay in the middle order across all formats, Iyer has been tested against the best of bowlers on some toughest pitches lately, and yet, on several occasions, he came out on top. Vouching against feeling discomfort while facing short balls, Iyer said he would stick to his attacking template irrespective of anything. Following a below-par show in South Africa, where he scored 0, 4*, 31 and 6 across four innings, Iyer returned to domestic cricket to prepare for the England Tests starting January 25 in Hyderabad. Against Andhra in the recently-concluded Ranji Trophy game, the right-handed batter scored a run-a-ball 48 in Mumbai’s ten-wicket win on Monday. Though the Andhra bowlers bowled negative lines and pitched it short to Iyer, restricting him from playing his natural strokes, the India batter dodged most deliveries, smashing the bad ones for four. ALSO READ: Nasser Hussain issues warning to hosts as England’s Bazball gets ready for India Tests "I'm going to play attacking irrespective of the situation," Iyer said after Mumbai's win. "And also, when you bowl negative when you bowl safe and defensive at the start, you want to score runs, and you need to take your team through up to a certain point. So that was my mindset, and that's why stuck with. Yeah, I was happy [with my knock] irrespective of the score,” he added. New summer, new innings After shining bright and high during the 2022 season, where he was the top-run-getter across formats, hitting 1489 runs in 38 innings, Iyer suffered a back injury that kept him away from the first half of the next year. Although he returned in some style, smashing daddy runs during the home 2023 World Cup, Iyer still feels the need to become India’s go-to-batter in times to come. ALSO WATCH - Nepal's star cricketer Sandeep Lamichhane jailed for eight years for rape × The wicket he batted on during the Ranji game was far from being a rank-turner, Iyer believes against England, the surface on offer would be spin-friendly and that he is ready for it. "It wasn't a turning track, to be honest, he said. "I'm assuming that we would be getting turning wickets against England. But other than that, it was just for my match fitness, to stay on the field as long as possible, that's what mainly I was focusing on because especially after my injury, it has been tough for me to stick on the outfield for long. So this was great practice for me,” Iyer added.

Unbothered by short-ball stuff and rank-turners, Shreyas Iyer prepares for England Tests

<p>A lot is brewing up in the lead-up to the marquee Test series between India and England starting January 25 in Hyderabad. Though the hosts are ready to walk out in the middle with the same template that kept them on the winning side at home for over a decade now, ex-England captain Nasser Hussain feels with Bazball getting ready for its maiden India tour, results are likely to differ this time.</p>

<p>Knowing how dangerous India is at home, especially in Tests, Hussain thinks this new-look England Team will walk in with the similar mindset that brought life into Test cricket since the appointment of Stokes and McCullum in the leadership group.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The home team has picked a potent team for the first two Tests, with all four of Ravi Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav on the 16-man squad.&nbsp;England also named the uncapped duo of Tom Hartley and Shoaib Bashir, alongside picking rookie Rehan Ahmed and Jack Leach in their team.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/prakhar-chaturvedi-smashes-yuvraj-singhs-record-to-enter-history-books-in-cooch-behar-trophy-final-680245">Cooch Behar Trophy final: Prakhar Chaturvedi smashes Yuvraj Singh's record to enter history books</a></strong></p>

<p>Hussain feels if India continues to ask for rank-turners this time across five Tests, they might just shoot themselves in the&nbsp;foot, given how dangerous English spinners could prove on such tracks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also, while mentioning Bazball, Hussain backed the ultra-attacking approach to breach India’s stronghold on such pitches at home.</p>

<p>"'I think what India should do is ask for good pitches that spin a bit because I think their spinners and batters will then out-bat and out-spin ours,'' Nasser Hussain told Sky Sports.</p>

<p>''If they ask for pitches that spin a lot then it becomes a bit of a lottery and brings England's spinners into the game. The way Bazball goes about its business, they won't die wondering," the former captain added.</p>

<h2>England ‘all set’ for India</h2>

<p>England was the last team that won a Test series on Indian soil in 2012 under the leadership of Alastair Cook.&nbsp;</p>

<p>12 years later, Ben Stokes has a chance to rewrite history.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Back together 🤝<br />
Preparing 🏏<br />
Building 💪<br />
<br />
Abu Dhabi 📌 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a> <a href="https://t.co/PwIip979Fz">pic.twitter.com/PwIip979Fz</a></p>
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/englandcricket/status/1746811963504574827?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>However, Hussain, who commentated during the 2023 World Cup, noticed how several home fans were eagerly waiting to put Bazball to bed come the Test series.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"My sense in the World Cup was that a lot of Indian fans are waiting to see how to put Bazball to bed," Hussain noted while expecting an exciting contest between both teams.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>India vs England 2024 Test schedule –</h3>

<ul>
	<li>1st Test – January 25-29 – Hyderabad</li>
	<li>2nd Test – February 2-6 – Vizag</li>
	<li>3rd Test – February 15-19 – Rajkot</li>
	<li>4th Test – February 23-27 – Ranchi</li>
	<li>5th Test – March 7-11 – Dharamsala</li>
</ul>


A lot is brewing up in the lead-up to the marquee Test series between India and England starting January 25 in Hyderabad. Though the hosts are ready to walk out in the middle with the same template that kept them on the winning side at home for over a decade now, ex-England captain Nasser Hussain feels with Bazball getting ready for its maiden India tour, results are likely to differ this time.

A lot is brewing up in the lead-up to the marquee Test series between India and England starting January 25 in Hyderabad. Though the hosts are ready to walk out in the middle with the same template that kept them on the winning side at home for over a decade now, ex-England captain Nasser Hussain feels with Bazball getting ready for its maiden India tour, results are likely to differ this time. Knowing how dangerous India is at home, especially in Tests, Hussain thinks this new-look England Team will walk in with the similar mindset that brought life into Test cricket since the appointment of Stokes and McCullum in the leadership group. The home team has picked a potent team for the first two Tests, with all four of Ravi Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav on the 16-man squad. England also named the uncapped duo of Tom Hartley and Shoaib Bashir, alongside picking rookie Rehan Ahmed and Jack Leach in their team. ALSO READ: Cooch Behar Trophy final: Prakhar Chaturvedi smashes Yuvraj Singh's record to enter history books Hussain feels if India continues to ask for rank-turners this time across five Tests, they might just shoot themselves in the foot, given how dangerous English spinners could prove on such tracks. Also, while mentioning Bazball, Hussain backed the ultra-attacking approach to breach India’s stronghold on such pitches at home. "'I think what India should do is ask for good pitches that spin a bit because I think their spinners and batters will then out-bat and out-spin ours,'' Nasser Hussain told Sky Sports. ''If they ask for pitches that spin a lot then it becomes a bit of a lottery and brings England's spinners into the game. The way Bazball goes about its business, they won't die wondering," the former captain added. England ‘all set’ for India England was the last team that won a Test series on Indian soil in 2012 under the leadership of Alastair Cook. 12 years later, Ben Stokes has a chance to rewrite history. Back together 🤝 Preparing 🏏 Building 💪 Abu Dhabi 📌 #INDvENG pic.twitter.com/PwIip979Fz — England Cricket (@englandcricket) January 15, 2024 × However, Hussain, who commentated during the 2023 World Cup, noticed how several home fans were eagerly waiting to put Bazball to bed come the Test series. "My sense in the World Cup was that a lot of Indian fans are waiting to see how to put Bazball to bed," Hussain noted while expecting an exciting contest between both teams. India vs England 2024 Test schedule – 1st Test – January 25-29 – Hyderabad 2nd Test – February 2-6 – Vizag 3rd Test – February 15-19 – Rajkot 4th Test – February 23-27 – Ranchi 5th Test – March 7-11 – Dharamsala

Nasser Hussain issues warning to hosts as England’s Bazball gets ready for India Tests

<p>Former England seamer Steve Harmison opened up on chatting with current Test captain Ben Stokes after publicly criticising the team’s preparation routine for India Tests, starting on January 25 in Hyderabad.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Harmison had earlier slammed the management’s call to train in Abu Dhabi for 11 days and arriving in India just three before the start of the first Test, saying instead the team should have been in India in the first place and play practice matches, something that’d have helped the bowlers in the longer run.</p>

<p>After his comments went viral, Steve and Stokes chatted like old mates and professionals, as narrated by the lanky seamer, and, while the details remain private, Harmison revealed what he made clear to Stokes about his thoughts on the team’s preparation.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/west-indies-great-brian-lara-joins-test-squad-as-mentor-ahead-of-curtain-raiser-against-australia-in-adelaide-679898">West Indies great Brian Lara joins Test squad as mentor ahead of curtain raiser against Australia in Adelaide</a></strong></p>

<p>“I had a good chat with Ben about it. It was two people talking who have a hell of a lot of respect for each other because I played with him and saw him growing up. And I love the way he is going about things as captain. It was old mates talking openly and honestly, and it was fine. I’ve no problem with that. Ben came back to me, and I like that,” Harmison told the Daily Mail.</p>

<p>“What was said will remain private, but the one thing I will say is that I said to him, no matter what happens in this series, you will never hear me say, “I told you so”. I’d take no pleasure in being right about this.”</p>

<p>“I do stick by what I said. I would have preferred them to have more time on the ground in India, especially for the bowlers, but can I see the logic behind them going to Abu Dhabi? Of course, I can,” the former lanky seamer added.</p>

<h2>Too late to travel to India and train</h2>

<p>Harmison argued that there was no way England couldn’t reach India earlier and train for the series. He added that even with their ultra-attacking brand of cricket, now labelled as ‘Bazball’, facing the first ball of the seven-week-long tour in 72 hours will not help.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH -&nbsp;Nepal's star cricketer Sandeep Lamichhane jailed for eight years for rape</strong></p>

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<p>“Maybe I’m a bit old-fashioned, but they should have had more time in the country where they are going to play the series — certainly more than 72 hours before the first ball is bowled,” Harmison added.</p>

<h3>India vs England 2024 Test schedule –</h3>

<ul>
	<li>1st Test – January 25-29 – Hyderabad</li>
	<li>2nd Test – February 2-6 – Vizag</li>
	<li>3rd Test – February 15-19 – Rajkot</li>
	<li>4th Test – February 23-27 – Ranchi</li>
	<li>5th Test – March 7-11 – Dharamsala</li>
</ul>


Former England seamer Steve Harmison opened up on chatting with current Test captain Ben Stokes after publicly criticising the team’s preparation routine for India Tests, starting on January 25 in Hyderabad.

Former England seamer Steve Harmison opened up on chatting with current Test captain Ben Stokes after publicly criticising the team’s preparation routine for India Tests, starting on January 25 in Hyderabad. Harmison had earlier slammed the management’s call to train in Abu Dhabi for 11 days and arriving in India just three before the start of the first Test, saying instead the team should have been in India in the first place and play practice matches, something that’d have helped the bowlers in the longer run. After his comments went viral, Steve and Stokes chatted like old mates and professionals, as narrated by the lanky seamer, and, while the details remain private, Harmison revealed what he made clear to Stokes about his thoughts on the team’s preparation. ALSO READ: West Indies great Brian Lara joins Test squad as mentor ahead of curtain raiser against Australia in Adelaide “I had a good chat with Ben about it. It was two people talking who have a hell of a lot of respect for each other because I played with him and saw him growing up. And I love the way he is going about things as captain. It was old mates talking openly and honestly, and it was fine. I’ve no problem with that. Ben came back to me, and I like that,” Harmison told the Daily Mail. “What was said will remain private, but the one thing I will say is that I said to him, no matter what happens in this series, you will never hear me say, “I told you so”. I’d take no pleasure in being right about this.” “I do stick by what I said. I would have preferred them to have more time on the ground in India, especially for the bowlers, but can I see the logic behind them going to Abu Dhabi? Of course, I can,” the former lanky seamer added. Too late to travel to India and train Harmison argued that there was no way England couldn’t reach India earlier and train for the series. He added that even with their ultra-attacking brand of cricket, now labelled as ‘Bazball’, facing the first ball of the seven-week-long tour in 72 hours will not help. ALSO WATCH - Nepal's star cricketer Sandeep Lamichhane jailed for eight years for rape × “Maybe I’m a bit old-fashioned, but they should have had more time in the country where they are going to play the series — certainly more than 72 hours before the first ball is bowled,” Harmison added. India vs England 2024 Test schedule – 1st Test – January 25-29 – Hyderabad 2nd Test – February 2-6 – Vizag 3rd Test – February 15-19 – Rajkot 4th Test – February 23-27 – Ranchi 5th Test – March 7-11 – Dharamsala

‘Maybe I’m bit old fashioned but…’ – Harmison on ‘honest chat’ with Stokes over preparation for India Tests

<p>Young keeper-batter Dhruv Jurel reacted to his maiden India call-up for the first two Tests against England, starting January 25 in Hyderabad. The right-handed batter took to social media to express his happiness after the BCCI named a 16-man squad late on Friday night, including three keepers.</p>

<p>While Dhruv might not get a chance in the playing XI right away, with KL Rahul and KS Bharat ahead of him in the pecking order, the youngster is still excited to get his India call-up. On his Instagram handle, Dhruv reposted a story mentioning his name in the Test squad, saying that it brought ‘tears of joy and happiness’.</p>

<p>Since making his first-class debut for Uttar Pradesh against Vidarbha during the 2022 Ranji Trophy season, Jurel has scored 790 runs at a healthy average of 46.47, striking at 56.63, including one hundred and five fifties. His best of 249 came against Nagaland in December 2022. Against Kerela in his last Ranji Trophy match, Jurel scored a fifty.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bhuvneshwar-makes-blockbuster-return-to-domestic-with-five-for-prasidh-krishna-injured-during-ranji-tie-679528">Bhuvneshwar makes blockbuster return to domestic with five-for, Prasidh Krishna injured during Ranji tie</a></strong></p>

<p>Last month in December, Jurel played for India-A against South Africa-A in the two-match unofficial series. After getting out on a duck in the first game, Jurel impressed everyone with his gritty 69 in the next.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Even during the 2023 Indian Premier League, playing as a lower-order batter/finisher for Rajasthan Royals, Jurel scored 152 runs from 13 games, striking at over 170, with a best of unbeaten 34.</p>

<h2>India ready for England Tests</h2>

<p>After sharing honours in the two-match Test series against South Africa on an away tour, India will host England for five Tests.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The squad selection for the first two games sees Rohit Sharma leading from the front, with Test regulars back in the side, excluding veterans Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH -&nbsp;Nepal's star cricketer Sandeep Lamichhane jailed for eight years for rape</strong></p>

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<p>Seamer Jasprit Bumrah is named the vice-captain, while the selectors picked four spinners – Ravi Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Here’s India’s squad for the first two England Tests –</strong></p>

<p>Rohit Sharma (captain), Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (wk), KS Bharat (wk), Dhruv Jurel (wk), R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah (vice-captain) and Avesh Khan</p>


Young keeper-batter Dhruv Jurel reacted to his maiden India call-up for the first two Tests against England, starting January 25 in Hyderabad. The right-handed batter took to social media to express his happiness after the BCCI named a 16-man squad late on Friday night, including three keepers.

Young keeper-batter Dhruv Jurel reacted to his maiden India call-up for the first two Tests against England, starting January 25 in Hyderabad. The right-handed batter took to social media to express his happiness after the BCCI named a 16-man squad late on Friday night, including three keepers. While Dhruv might not get a chance in the playing XI right away, with KL Rahul and KS Bharat ahead of him in the pecking order, the youngster is still excited to get his India call-up. On his Instagram handle, Dhruv reposted a story mentioning his name in the Test squad, saying that it brought ‘tears of joy and happiness’. Since making his first-class debut for Uttar Pradesh against Vidarbha during the 2022 Ranji Trophy season, Jurel has scored 790 runs at a healthy average of 46.47, striking at 56.63, including one hundred and five fifties. His best of 249 came against Nagaland in December 2022. Against Kerela in his last Ranji Trophy match, Jurel scored a fifty. ALSO READ: Bhuvneshwar makes blockbuster return to domestic with five-for, Prasidh Krishna injured during Ranji tie Last month in December, Jurel played for India-A against South Africa-A in the two-match unofficial series. After getting out on a duck in the first game, Jurel impressed everyone with his gritty 69 in the next. Even during the 2023 Indian Premier League, playing as a lower-order batter/finisher for Rajasthan Royals, Jurel scored 152 runs from 13 games, striking at over 170, with a best of unbeaten 34. India ready for England Tests After sharing honours in the two-match Test series against South Africa on an away tour, India will host England for five Tests. The squad selection for the first two games sees Rohit Sharma leading from the front, with Test regulars back in the side, excluding veterans Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane. ALSO WATCH - Nepal's star cricketer Sandeep Lamichhane jailed for eight years for rape × Seamer Jasprit Bumrah is named the vice-captain, while the selectors picked four spinners – Ravi Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav. Here’s India’s squad for the first two England Tests – Rohit Sharma (captain), Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (wk), KS Bharat (wk), Dhruv Jurel (wk), R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah (vice-captain) and Avesh Khan

‘Tears of joy and happiness’ - Dhruv Jurel reacts to maiden India call-up for England Tests

<p>England is gearing up for a seven-week-long away Tests in India starting January 25 in Hyderabad, and former batter Mark Butcher admits to being a bit terrified with how the visitors are preparing for the marquee series.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Bazball-bound England Team is in the UAE preparing for the Test series and will land in India just three days before the start of the first match.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Considering not many players from the squad have played enough red-ball games in the lead-up to this blockbuster series, with several coming in on the back of just white-ball cricket, Butcher feels the chances of England falling flat on their face because of lack of required practice are higher.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India hasn't lost a Test series at home in over a decade, having last gone down against England in 2012.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Frankly, I'd be a little bit terrified if I was playing. Most of the guys haven't played any long-form cricket since July. Very few of the squad were involved a great deal in the rundown of the County Championship, which finished at the back end of September. We're now three months down the road with nobody having had any sort of middle practice at all," Butcher said on Wisden Cricket Weekly Podcast.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/u-19-world-cup-south-africa-captain-david-teeger-removed-from-post-over-pro-israel-remarks-679384">U-19 World Cup: South Africa captain David Teeger removed from post over pro-Israel remarks</a></strong></p>

<p>Though for the England Team to repeat the same heroics looks like an uphill task. Going ahead with an underprepared plan will further haunt its legacy and the reputation they gained as a Test unit since the change of captain and coach in late 2022.</p>

<p>"Everybody believes that going to India that you're unlikely to win a five-Test match series in India, right? But what people will be less likely to be gentle about is if you go there without having done the requisite getting ready for it and then get battered," Butcher said.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH -&nbsp;Nepal's star cricketer Sandeep Lamichhane jailed for eight years for rape</strong></p>

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<p>The ex-England batter added there is no reason why England was not in India in the first place, doing the training and playing practice matches.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"That's kind of inexcusable. Particularly given the huge gap that there has been for the Test team between July and now whereby there's no real reason why they couldn't have spent three weeks in India leading up to the series," Butcher added.</p>

<h2>Here is England’s squad for India Tests –</h2>

<p>Ben Stokes (captain), Rehan Ahmed, James Anderson, Gus Atkinson, Jonny Bairstow (wicketkeeper), Shoaib Bashir, Harry Brook, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ben Foakes, Tom Hartley, Jack Leach, Ollie Pope, Ollie Robinson, Joe Root and Mark Wood</p>

<p><strong>India vs England 2024 Test schedule –</strong></p>

<ul>
	<li>1st Test – January 25-29 – Hyderabad</li>
	<li>2nd Test – February 2-6 – Vizag</li>
	<li>3rd Test – February 15-19 – Rajkot</li>
	<li>4th Test – February 23-27 – Ranchi</li>
	<li>5th Test – March 7-11 – Dharamsala</li>
</ul>


England is gearing up for a seven-week-long away Tests in India starting January 25 in Hyderabad, and former batter Mark Butcher admits to being a bit terrified with how the visitors are preparing for the marquee series.

England is gearing up for a seven-week-long away Tests in India starting January 25 in Hyderabad, and former batter Mark Butcher admits to being a bit terrified with how the visitors are preparing for the marquee series. The Bazball-bound England Team is in the UAE preparing for the Test series and will land in India just three days before the start of the first match. Considering not many players from the squad have played enough red-ball games in the lead-up to this blockbuster series, with several coming in on the back of just white-ball cricket, Butcher feels the chances of England falling flat on their face because of lack of required practice are higher. India hasn't lost a Test series at home in over a decade, having last gone down against England in 2012. "Frankly, I'd be a little bit terrified if I was playing. Most of the guys haven't played any long-form cricket since July. Very few of the squad were involved a great deal in the rundown of the County Championship, which finished at the back end of September. We're now three months down the road with nobody having had any sort of middle practice at all," Butcher said on Wisden Cricket Weekly Podcast. ALSO READ: U-19 World Cup: South Africa captain David Teeger removed from post over pro-Israel remarks Though for the England Team to repeat the same heroics looks like an uphill task. Going ahead with an underprepared plan will further haunt its legacy and the reputation they gained as a Test unit since the change of captain and coach in late 2022. "Everybody believes that going to India that you're unlikely to win a five-Test match series in India, right? But what people will be less likely to be gentle about is if you go there without having done the requisite getting ready for it and then get battered," Butcher said. ALSO WATCH - Nepal's star cricketer Sandeep Lamichhane jailed for eight years for rape × The ex-England batter added there is no reason why England was not in India in the first place, doing the training and playing practice matches. "That's kind of inexcusable. Particularly given the huge gap that there has been for the Test team between July and now whereby there's no real reason why they couldn't have spent three weeks in India leading up to the series," Butcher added. Here is England’s squad for India Tests – Ben Stokes (captain), Rehan Ahmed, James Anderson, Gus Atkinson, Jonny Bairstow (wicketkeeper), Shoaib Bashir, Harry Brook, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ben Foakes, Tom Hartley, Jack Leach, Ollie Pope, Ollie Robinson, Joe Root and Mark Wood India vs England 2024 Test schedule – 1st Test – January 25-29 – Hyderabad 2nd Test – February 2-6 – Vizag 3rd Test – February 15-19 – Rajkot 4th Test – February 23-27 – Ranchi 5th Test – March 7-11 – Dharamsala

England's preparation for India Tests 'terrifies' Mark Butcher

<p>After what unfolded on their last Asian tour (to Pakistan) in late 2022, where most of their squad players and several team members of the team management fell ill (food poisoning), England decided to stick with the bringing-your-own-chef policy for their upcoming seven-week India tour.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per the latest reports, the idea behind England getting its cook has nothing to do with local food providers’ quality (given the teams will stay in the best of five-star hotels, with some of them also having a separate restaurant for them) and more to do with the well-being of players.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">England are taking their own chef to India later this month to try and avoid players falling ill during the tour 🇮🇳<br />
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H/t <a href="https://twitter.com/NHoultCricket?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NHoultCricket</a> <a href="https://t.co/eZj80tdVoF">pic.twitter.com/eZj80tdVoF</a></p>
— England's Barmy Army 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿🎺 (@TheBarmyArmy) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheBarmyArmy/status/1743199536170807344?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 5, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>“England insists it (the move) has nothing to do with not trusting hotels to provide clean facilities and is instead about ensuring players, especially those who refuse to eat spicy food, are eating nutritious meals rather than filling up on energy bars and pizzas,” the Telegraph reported first.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-had-to-prioritise-afridis-long-term-career-hafeez-defends-teams-call-to-rest-shaheen-in-sydney-677191">‘I had to prioritise Afridi’s long-term career’ – Hafeez defends ‘team’s call’ to rest Shaheen in Sydney</a></strong></p>

<p>England Team's chef will join the side in Hyderabad before the first Test on January 25 to stay aligned with the players and their nutrition plans and eating preferences.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The England and Wales Cricket Board’s (ECB) decision to have their chef in India came after the players had provided the board with positive feedback in the aftermath of the away Pakistan series, which they won 3-0.</p>

<h2>Stokes to get fit in time for India series</h2>

<p>After a busy summer where he led England to come back from behind and level the Ashes 2-2, Stokes decided to unretire from ODIs and make himself available for the 2023 World Cup in India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Right after England’s failed title defence, Stokes decided to go for knee surgery, giving himself ample time to return for the India Tests.</p>

<p>With almost two weeks left for the start of the five-match Test series, Stokes is likely to attain full fitness and lead England on a crucial away tour.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Here is England’s squad for India Tests –</p>

<p>Ben Stokes (captain), Rehan Ahmed, James Anderson, Gus Atkinson, Jonny Bairstow (wicketkeeper), Shoaib Bashir, Harry Brook, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ben Foakes, Tom Hartley, Jack Leach, Ollie Pope, Ollie Robinson, Joe Root and Mark Wood</p>

<h3>India vs England 2024 Test schedule –</h3>

<ul>
	<li>1st Test – January 25-29 – Hyderabad</li>
	<li>2nd Test – February 2-6 – Vizag</li>
	<li>3rd Test – February 15-19 – Rajkot</li>
	<li>4th Test – February 23-27 – Ranchi</li>
	<li>5th Test – March 7-11 – Dharamsala</li>
</ul>


After what unfolded on their last Asian tour (to Pakistan) in late 2022, where most of their squad players and several team members of the team management fell ill (food poisoning), England decided to stick with the bringing-your-own-chef policy for their upcoming seven-week India tour.

After what unfolded on their last Asian tour (to Pakistan) in late 2022, where most of their squad players and several team members of the team management fell ill (food poisoning), England decided to stick with the bringing-your-own-chef policy for their upcoming seven-week India tour. As per the latest reports, the idea behind England getting its cook has nothing to do with local food providers’ quality (given the teams will stay in the best of five-star hotels, with some of them also having a separate restaurant for them) and more to do with the well-being of players. England are taking their own chef to India later this month to try and avoid players falling ill during the tour 🇮🇳 H/t @NHoultCricket pic.twitter.com/eZj80tdVoF — England's Barmy Army 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿🎺 (@TheBarmyArmy) January 5, 2024 × “England insists it (the move) has nothing to do with not trusting hotels to provide clean facilities and is instead about ensuring players, especially those who refuse to eat spicy food, are eating nutritious meals rather than filling up on energy bars and pizzas,” the Telegraph reported first. ALSO READ: ‘I had to prioritise Afridi’s long-term career’ – Hafeez defends ‘team’s call’ to rest Shaheen in Sydney England Team's chef will join the side in Hyderabad before the first Test on January 25 to stay aligned with the players and their nutrition plans and eating preferences. The England and Wales Cricket Board’s (ECB) decision to have their chef in India came after the players had provided the board with positive feedback in the aftermath of the away Pakistan series, which they won 3-0. Stokes to get fit in time for India series After a busy summer where he led England to come back from behind and level the Ashes 2-2, Stokes decided to unretire from ODIs and make himself available for the 2023 World Cup in India. Right after England’s failed title defence, Stokes decided to go for knee surgery, giving himself ample time to return for the India Tests. With almost two weeks left for the start of the five-match Test series, Stokes is likely to attain full fitness and lead England on a crucial away tour. Here is England’s squad for India Tests – Ben Stokes (captain), Rehan Ahmed, James Anderson, Gus Atkinson, Jonny Bairstow (wicketkeeper), Shoaib Bashir, Harry Brook, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ben Foakes, Tom Hartley, Jack Leach, Ollie Pope, Ollie Robinson, Joe Root and Mark Wood India vs England 2024 Test schedule – 1st Test – January 25-29 – Hyderabad 2nd Test – February 2-6 – Vizag 3rd Test – February 15-19 – Rajkot 4th Test – February 23-27 – Ranchi 5th Test – March 7-11 – Dharamsala

England Test Team to carry own chef on seven-week long India tour

<p>Former England bowler Steve Harmison finds no sense in the team playing Ben Stokes despite getting knocked out of the World Cup 2023. Harmison argues knowing Ben is confirmed to undergo knee surgery following the marquee event, and England must send him home to protect him and prepare him for the India Tests in January next year. England is due to face the Netherlands and Pakistan in their remaining two matches.</p>

<p>Harmison added it requires strong leadership to let Stokes leave the World Cup at this hour and head home for surgery on his troubled left knee. The lanky seamer suggested it should be ECB's director of men's cricket, Robert Key, to step ahead and take this call.</p>

<p>"I am amazed Ben is still in the country, I don't see any point in him being there," Harmison told PA.</p>

<p>"I'm sure that conversation has been had but it needs strong leadership. It needs someone to say, 'Ben, you're going home. Here's a ticket, there's the plane, get on it'.</p>

<p>"I think Rob Key, as director of cricket, should probably take that decision and if I was (Test coach) Brendon McCullum I'd be doing everything I could to encourage him,” Harmison added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-2023-he-doesnt-have-class-abdul-razzaq-on-star-pakistan-batter-failing-to-win-games-on-his-own-656136">World Cup 2023 - He doesn’t have class: Abdul Razzaq on star Pakistan batter failing to win games on his own</a></strong></p>

<p>Stokes has had issues with his left knee since the Ashes this year, where he bowled for limited-overs only. Following the home Ashes that ended with a 2-2 result, Stokes came out of ODI retirement to feature in the showpiece event, where he played as a specialist batter.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I've got a good relationship with Ben, and I know for a fact he won't thank me for saying this, but I'm saying it because it's what is best for the England cricket team. It's common sense," Harmison added.</p>

<h2>He is the most important player in Test line-up</h2>

<p>Arguing that Stokes is the single-most-important player in the Test squad that has taken the world by storm with its newest playing style, which everyone calls Bazball.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Harmison noted that it’s important for Stokes to get some rest after going under the knife, and for which he must head home now.</p>

<p>"You never know what they are going to find with a big op, or what the rehab looks like," added Harmison. "So, give yourself the extra time because it could be the difference between being fully fit for the first Test or the third.</p>

<p>"The single most important person in that Test set-up is Ben Stokes. They need their leader, and that's why he has to go home. This tour is going to be twice as hard as the Ashes given the conditions, so he's going to be more important than ever,” the former seamer added.</p>

<p><strong>England’s tour of India in 2024 –</strong></p>

<ul>
	<li>First Test - January 25-29 (Hyderabad)</li>
	<li>Second Test - February 2-6 (Vizag)</li>
	<li>Third Test - February 15-19 (Rajkot)</li>
	<li>Fourth Test - February 23-27 (Ranchi)</li>
	<li>Fifth Test - March 7-11 (Dharamsala)</li>
</ul>


Former England bowler Steve Harmison finds no sense in the team playing Ben Stokes despite getting knocked out of the World Cup 2023. Harmison argues knowing Ben is confirmed to undergo knee surgery following the marquee event, and England must send him home to protect him and prepare him for the India Tests in January next year.

Former England bowler Steve Harmison finds no sense in the team playing Ben Stokes despite getting knocked out of the World Cup 2023. Harmison argues knowing Ben is confirmed to undergo knee surgery following the marquee event, and England must send him home to protect him and prepare him for the India Tests in January next year. England is due to face the Netherlands and Pakistan in their remaining two matches. Harmison added it requires strong leadership to let Stokes leave the World Cup at this hour and head home for surgery on his troubled left knee. The lanky seamer suggested it should be ECB's director of men's cricket, Robert Key, to step ahead and take this call. "I am amazed Ben is still in the country, I don't see any point in him being there," Harmison told PA. "I'm sure that conversation has been had but it needs strong leadership. It needs someone to say, 'Ben, you're going home. Here's a ticket, there's the plane, get on it'. "I think Rob Key, as director of cricket, should probably take that decision and if I was (Test coach) Brendon McCullum I'd be doing everything I could to encourage him,” Harmison added. ALSO READ: World Cup 2023 - He doesn’t have class: Abdul Razzaq on star Pakistan batter failing to win games on his own Stokes has had issues with his left knee since the Ashes this year, where he bowled for limited-overs only. Following the home Ashes that ended with a 2-2 result, Stokes came out of ODI retirement to feature in the showpiece event, where he played as a specialist batter. "I've got a good relationship with Ben, and I know for a fact he won't thank me for saying this, but I'm saying it because it's what is best for the England cricket team. It's common sense," Harmison added. He is the most important player in Test line-up Arguing that Stokes is the single-most-important player in the Test squad that has taken the world by storm with its newest playing style, which everyone calls Bazball. Harmison noted that it’s important for Stokes to get some rest after going under the knife, and for which he must head home now. "You never know what they are going to find with a big op, or what the rehab looks like," added Harmison. "So, give yourself the extra time because it could be the difference between being fully fit for the first Test or the third. "The single most important person in that Test set-up is Ben Stokes. They need their leader, and that's why he has to go home. This tour is going to be twice as hard as the Ashes given the conditions, so he's going to be more important than ever,” the former seamer added. England’s tour of India in 2024 – First Test - January 25-29 (Hyderabad) Second Test - February 2-6 (Vizag) Third Test - February 15-19 (Rajkot) Fourth Test - February 23-27 (Ranchi) Fifth Test - March 7-11 (Dharamsala)

Protect Ben Stokes for India Tests and send him home from World Cup: Steve Harmison to England management

<p>Zak Crawley, England’s leading run-scorer in the recently-concluded Ashes 2023, is ready to bring the Bazball to India for five-match Test series scheduled for the January-February window next year. The right-handed batter, who amassed 480 runs, striking at over 88 and averaging 53.33, feels despite the spin threat, England can stand tall with their approach though they need to adapt to conditions first.</p>

<p>As England’s next Test is scheduled to get underway after around six months, Crawley, who toured India in 2021 – hitting 67 in two Tests – thinks with newer venues added to the itinerary this time, England is ready to weather any challenge – be it spin, seam and even swing (if any).</p>

<p>"I don't really know much about their grounds," Crawley said after the Oval Test win.</p>

<p>"Sometimes in India, it seams and swings a bit - and they've got unbelievable seamers - so hopefully there are a couple of pitches there that are like that as well, that will suit us a bit more.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-rcb-appoints-andy-flower-as-new-head-coach-ends-partnership-with-mike-hesson-sanjay-bangar-622236">IPL: RCB appoints Andy Flower as new head coach, ends partnership with Mike Hesson, Sanjay Bangar</a></p>

<p>"But if it's spinning, I feel like we play spin really well as well. We'll just have to adapt, see what we get. But they are pretty unknown grounds - I don't know if they're going to be raggers like Ahmedabad and Chennai, where we were last time," the opener added.</p>

<p>Captain Ben Stokes expressed the exact thoughts when asked about Bazball succeeding in India in the post-match presser in London, saying if England can achieve the results in Pakistan and New Zealand and almost win against the Aussies at home, there is no point why they cannot do it against spin-heavy Indian Team in their conditions.</p>

<h2>Clarity of thought to help England – McCullum</h2>

<p>Addressing a similar question, Test Coach Brendon McCullum said for the touring team to succeed on those dusty tracks in India, having a clarity in thought is important.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"For us, what will be really important for the time India comes will be trying to dial back into what we've achieved in the last 14-15 months, and to try and make sure the team turns up with the same clarity of thought when we go about things," McCullum said.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>Schedule of England’s tour of India 2024 –</h3>

<ul>
	<li>1st Test – January 25-29, Hyderabad</li>
	<li>2nd Test – February 2-6 – Vizag</li>
	<li>3rd Test – February 15-19 – Rajkot</li>
	<li>4th Test – February 23-27 – Ranchi</li>
	<li>5th Test – 7-11 March – Dharamshala</li>
</ul>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:</strong></p>

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Zak Crawley, England’s leading run-scorer in the recently-concluded Ashes 2023, is ready to bring the Bazball to India for five-match Test series scheduled for the January-February window next year.

Zak Crawley, England’s leading run-scorer in the recently-concluded Ashes 2023, is ready to bring the Bazball to India for five-match Test series scheduled for the January-February window next year. The right-handed batter, who amassed 480 runs, striking at over 88 and averaging 53.33, feels despite the spin threat, England can stand tall with their approach though they need to adapt to conditions first. As England’s next Test is scheduled to get underway after around six months, Crawley, who toured India in 2021 – hitting 67 in two Tests – thinks with newer venues added to the itinerary this time, England is ready to weather any challenge – be it spin, seam and even swing (if any). "I don't really know much about their grounds," Crawley said after the Oval Test win. "Sometimes in India, it seams and swings a bit - and they've got unbelievable seamers - so hopefully there are a couple of pitches there that are like that as well, that will suit us a bit more. ALSO READ: IPL: RCB appoints Andy Flower as new head coach, ends partnership with Mike Hesson, Sanjay Bangar "But if it's spinning, I feel like we play spin really well as well. We'll just have to adapt, see what we get. But they are pretty unknown grounds - I don't know if they're going to be raggers like Ahmedabad and Chennai, where we were last time," the opener added. Captain Ben Stokes expressed the exact thoughts when asked about Bazball succeeding in India in the post-match presser in London, saying if England can achieve the results in Pakistan and New Zealand and almost win against the Aussies at home, there is no point why they cannot do it against spin-heavy Indian Team in their conditions. Clarity of thought to help England – McCullum Addressing a similar question, Test Coach Brendon McCullum said for the touring team to succeed on those dusty tracks in India, having a clarity in thought is important. "For us, what will be really important for the time India comes will be trying to dial back into what we've achieved in the last 14-15 months, and to try and make sure the team turns up with the same clarity of thought when we go about things," McCullum said. Schedule of England’s tour of India 2024 – 1st Test – January 25-29, Hyderabad 2nd Test – February 2-6 – Vizag 3rd Test – February 15-19 – Rajkot 4th Test – February 23-27 – Ranchi 5th Test – 7-11 March – Dharamshala WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Zak Crawley keen on bringing Bazball game to India, admits adaption is key to success